For Rogue, it wasn't a matter of simply being polite, or of trying to get something out of making a show of gratitude. Circumstances could change in the blink of an eye, going completely south despite everything he had said and calculated - that was why she felt such a pressing need to make sure he understood how she felt while she had the chance. She couldn't count the number of times people had helped her during the war and she hadn't taken the time to properly thank them; so many lives had been lost because of that help that she couldn't bear to risk leaving things unsaid anymore.

He hadn't been expecting it, though, that was clear as day. She felt his pace change slightly, movement to his body that wasn't consistent with his previous stance, but his quick correction and change of subject sent a strong message.

But shrapnel? "Will you be alright?" There was alarm and concern in her tone, neither of which she bothered trying to hide. If he could see her face, they both would have been written all over her expression anyway. She didn't want him getting hurt in the process of helping her.