"We are friends," Naoto says again. "We have been, for some time. I sought you as an assistant, on that basis."
"Sounds like nepotism," Yousuke mutters.
Not quiet enough. Naoto, done turning white, goes red, instead. It's strangely, bitterly satisfying.
"It was because we are friends that I was aware of your qualifications," Naoto says. "Aware of, and familiar with."
"That's one of us." says Yousuke. He's pushing, prodding, and—
Naoto lowers his eyes.
That's wrong.
"There are certain facts I should have provided you by now," Naoto says. "I have not—and that is because I have been selfish."