I'd be lying if I said that was the answer I was expecting, because I wasn't, not in the least. It's enough to push me off-kilter, and the follow up's just as disorienting, sending my thoughts spiraling out in hundreds of different directions without so much as a friendly warning. Think fast, Madrox, you've got an x-factor in your midst.

His breath caught in his throat, and he stared at her with wide eyes. Suspicion was replaced with trepidation, and he swallowed, thickly, as he considered just what it was she was asking.

"I--" he started, then pressed his lips together in a thin line, ducking his head. He found himself strangely transfixed by her hand on his arm. After a moment, he spoke again, eyes flicking upwards to search hers. "F-Fine."