"Nah, not necessarily," Yota said honestly. "Family's gotta be closer than just that."

Tidus was, in fact, extra special! Or Yota simply wasn't used to recieving this much kindness without having to lie or trick his way to it, so he got attached.

"Never saw one in the flesh, but there're stories... if you'll believe I nearly sto— uh, acquired a magic lamp that supposedly contained a wish-granting genie..."

Shoot, he nearly gave himself away!