[ He could have said what was really on his mind - which was simply, I'm not pulling a dad act on you, it's pulling an I'm-a-friend act - but the opportunity was so easy, so he takes it like a well-placed chess move when the window is his for the taking.

When Tidus moves away, Roland makes an incredibly amused, heavily acted expression as his hand reaches to ruffle Tidus's hair. ]

Aw, I was looking forward to calling you 'champ,' or 'sport.' Maybe...'buddy?' [ See that? He's trying to ruffle hair, even now! He's chuckling pretty loudly too. But Roland's aware that even in the thick of their jests, Tidus doesn't have to think twice about calling him for aid. Roland would come. He has his sword. ]

[ Eventually, as this play act breaks, Roland just shakes his head and for once, allows Tidus to walk away first, with a wave of his hand to signal him off wherever direction he would take. ]

Sounds like a plan. I'll hold you to it, as long as you're buying. Heh.