Cynical little thing, aren't you? Everything Chad did was because he loved Tibial. He tried to deny his feelings because he didn't want to endanger Tibial, which was the same reason he tried to make himself the villain at the trial. He knew that Tibial would have a better chance at escaping a possible death sentence if he could convince the council that he was the sole person at fault. And yes, he did keep a distance and eventually left Tibial, again to try to help him. It was stupid, yes, but still done to try to make Tibial happy.
And Tibial came back, sought him out. Chad had left thinking that he would never see Tibial again. Ever. And then when Tibial shows up on his doorstep, he is just supposed to give up the one chance he has to try to win him back? Why wouldn't he take the chance?
I don't see it as being manipulative and jerking Tibial around. I see it as being stupid in love and going for it when life gives you a second chance. I really don't see where you are coming from, and that is okay. People interpret stories differently and that is cool. I just have trouble understanding your viewpoint. I really wish you could have enjoyed Reach more.