[ matt doesn't answer, at first. he knew this conversation had to come eventually - they'd cried and been stupid and played and been happy so it makes sense that it had to come crashing down now that enough time had passed. but. even just hearing the name Kyogre makes matt tense and nervous and uncomfortable about where this could go. so he says nothing, just keeps archie close and swims back to the beach, sitting down on the sand with his legs still in the water and his boss by his side. he idly watches the two sharpedo play together while he tries to figure this out. ]

Bro...

I should have been better. [ he sighs.] I've never been good enough for you, bro. I never shoulda let you get all messed up! I wanna give you my life and everything I've got, but I just keep bein' bad and making things all hard and worse for you all the time. M'sorry. I wish you'd just punch me in the face and put me back in my place, bro, 'cause I dunno what to do!