How do you date someone who’s actively grieving?

I’ve been seeing this guy and I genuinely don’t know how to navigate this situation because I’ve never dated someone who’s actively grieving before.

We’ve been on 3 dates and things were going really well. He’s a really nice guy, we kissed on the third date and there’s definitely mutual interest. He’s never been in a relationship before while I have so I’m also trying to be understanding of the fact that this is all new to him too.

Recently though, his grandfather became very unwell and is in palliative care. Since then, communication has changed a bit, which I completely understand but I honestly don’t know what the right approach is here. I don’t know how much space to give, how often to check in or whether I should just let him come to me.

We were meant to see each other Saturday however he’s asked to reschedule as his father may unfortunately pass away any day now. I do want to make plans with my friends however if his grandfather is still with us I have a feeling he’ll message last minute asking if we’re still on, and I’m not even sure what to do because I don’t want to put my life on hold waiting around either. Even though we haven’t discussed exclusivity yet, based on his mannerisms I’m convinced he’s only talking to me and he’s the only guy I’m talking to currently as well, however is it bad that I am considering speaking to another guys “just in case”. Everyone deals with loss differently and he’s unsure how to even feel as he’s never had someone close to him actively dying.

I genuinely like him but because things are still new between us I can’t tell what’s normal. How do you support someone who’s grieving without becoming overbearing, especially this early on?

For context I’m 23 and he’s 25