"And now you've got a lot of connections," Nida offers that wry smile right back. "I mean, look at you. Your new Dad cares a good bit about you, and I think he's pretty cool."

Yes, he really does think Tony has, in a way, adopted the guy. And Nida is quietly jealous. Very quietly. Not going to get the guy hurt about all of this. Or mention that he threatened Tony. Both are bad.

"Billy, Rinoa, and you. Best friend, friend that gets how to be a person but also gets us, and..."

Nida looks at Seifer for a moment, and this time he doesn't hide things. Just keeps an honest expression.

"My brother."