When you look at it like this it makes the ending to Part II all that more shocking and heartbreaking and also gives you a new perspective. I was also never really quite sold on the idea that Fredo meant to harm Michael. I have also always had this feeling that Fredo was desperate for approval, he really wanted to be on peoples good side. In my opinion this can be seen in the flashback, when he wants to shake Mike's hand and show his brother that he is happy for him. Great post JCrusher!