He would've stepped in if I hadn't. We both know that.

[ It was obvious, after all. ]

It was supposed to hurt him in a different way. I don't know if it did, but it was the only way I could manage both. It's fine if you don't forgive that, and think I'm cowardly for it.

[ ... It isn't said with ire, or anything. Just kind of neutral, factual, not so different than their talk in the promenade. ]