"That's the truth of it, really, and I'm glad you haven't lived through something like this, too." Even if Rich is floundering, the last bit hits the mark, and César looks up at him with a pained smile. "The paranoia is more necessary now. As is overworking myself. The people who could be trusted left. I'm the only one capable of doing a large amount of work necessary to save the world."

He shrugs, slowly. "... and now I'm idle. So, yes. It's catching up to me. I'm also allowing it, as this might be my only chance."

César hadn't meant to say 'only', and his brain doesn't really register it. This is still June. But sometimes, the subconscious tells on you anyway.