[ And on Riley's end he's wondering if it is fair to you, because caring about another is something that a person sometimes cannot help. Relationships work both ways, after all. ]

I cannot tell you what it is that you should or should not do, old friend. Because ultimately, whatever you decide to will have consequences for good or for ill.

It is a... "cop out" answer, I understand. But this is your heart. [ He also takes a moment to pause, because he has been taking quiet note of your movements. ] And the boy is also one of your good friends.

[ It is a new friendship, true. But you, of all people, put stock in such things with all your heart. ]