[...Ran always knew how to see straight through to the truth of a matter, even when she didn't know she was doing it. It hurt, how easily that applied to his own situation. ]

Sometimes, there are situations where there is no good answer. Where someone will be hurt no matter what you do. When it comes down to that, all you can do is use your best judgement and hope it will be enough.

[Even though it never was.]

Why not? The kid would want to help if he knew.