What does Genesis 37:20 mean?

Reuben added, 'Don’t spill his blood. Just throw him into this pit here in the wilderness, but don’t lay a hand on him.' He said this because he planned to come back later and rescue Joseph and take him home to their father. Genesis 37:20 - Modern Text Bible

(Reuben’s plan is to keep Joseph alive and secretly rescue him, showing he cares about his brother and his father.)