Everyone lied sometimes, it was just a fact of life. But when it came to something important like whether or not you were proud of someone or were making an important promise like this it would be cruel to lie. Besides, he'd figure it out pretty quick. He may lack formal education, but Tony wasn't stupid.

"Got plenty to worry about these days." What he's turning into, what they're all up against. His little surrogate family he's managed to build. His own messed up head. Be nice to have a small load off his mind.

More room to focus on everything else? But still, that is a help, and he appreciates it.