I actually kind of like the development. Not the friend part per se, although I'm indifferent to it. But having the antagonist already in agony thinking about what he did, and then having the MC apologise despite that. It basically multiplies how bad that guy will feel.
I don't see him showing up more in the story but he should at least be able to become a better person.
I'm really glad that everyone, including the guy on the wrong, is telling Nozomu that he should stop apologizing for something he wasn't at fault for! It's good to see the guy has some self awareness, understands it was all his fault and is feeling bad about it (his face looks horrible).
Lol well dang, even the dude that started it all reformed between the incident and now, that's rare. But guess they gotta make sure our lad keeps the Alabama route rather than the girl he saved eh.