Akihiko's brow furrowed at the accusation that he would understand because he was young. He had done his share of drinking, sure, and maybe some of the people Shinji hung around with liked to drink this much. But it wasn't really his scene.

"It would have been good to tell us," he said, more quietly. "Maybe we could have helped. I mean...if it's important to you, then it's something we want to help you with."

They reached the top of the steps and Akihiko pushed the door open, helping Jack into his office and towards the cot in the corner.