He knew of that on some level, but it had been easy enough to convince himself otherwise. Of course, Julius and Gen's encouragement had helped a bit. Penny's words stung more than he cared to admit, and he straightened his shoulders, nodding once. "I- aye. Of course."
"Forgive me. I hadn't realized that our friendship might cause you so much trouble." He took half a step back, sighing. "Perhaps- perhaps I should just return the books I still have, and we don't- I do not wish to upset you any more than I already have."