"We used to leave across the street from each other. We've had plenty of discussions, Adrian, and you know he has no manners or tact." No, he wasn't lying, but he wasn't going to say that either, because it would only mean more questions and then he had to lie.
Stephen laughed mirthlessly. "Yes, and we both know how my arguments convinced you not to help Sophia. I remember something that sounded remarkably like 'I don't know how to put you first. I need to help her', but I could be mistaking a word or two." He looked at Adrian. "You know the difference? I tried to convince you and let you make your choices. You give me orders, which only make me want to do things on purpose. He's my friend and I'll do what I think it's right."