He was a lot stronger than her physically. That was about all he had on her. Rukia's Shinigami abilities were definitely beyond his capabilities. He'd never truly win a battle with her unless he died in the process. Supernatural people did have extremely awesome powers. She was skilled, he admitted that much. With that being said, he knew how extremely fragile she was due to what kind of life she lived up to this point.

However, he didn't really say anything on how she was reacting to him when he pulled her against his chest. It didn't seem like he knew what to say to Rukia at this point. He was too embarrassed but these awkward things were what he could do when he knew that his friends truly needed it. It was the least he could offer to her at the moment, seeing how it was hard for him to express things without sounding harsh and blunt about it. He didn't think that he would help Rukia's situation if he continued to talk.

Instead, a gesture like a hug worked better. Of course, he didn't move away from her. He allowed her to cling to him and cry as much as she needed to. Hopefully that could provide her with some sort of closure. His arms were secured around her much more petite form as she continued to cry.