Kept aloof (8)
I believe the answer is:
reserved
I believe this is a double definition.
'kept' is the first definition.
(to keep is to reserve or hold onto)
'aloof' is the second definition.
(similar in meaning)
(Other definitions for reserved that I've seen before include "Set aside, earmarked" , "Booked - reticent" , "Set aside; reticent" , "Shy - set aside" , "Reticent; put by" .)