Something about that calm response seems to cut through the haze of anger and self-loathing. It takes Qubit a moment to respond, eyeing Peter as if really getting the measure of him for the first time.
Because their roles have just reversed, he realizes. Usually Qubit's the one who keeps his head on straight, takes charge, herds the cats, thinks outside the box. But he lost his focus, and Peter stepped up to bat like it was the most natural thing in the world.
He's been underestimating him this entire time.
The kid's competent. Still young, but he knows what he's doing. Up till now, Qubit's been framing this situation as something he needs to fix. Which, suddenly, he can't - but he doesn't have to, not on his own.
Part of him still wants to dig in his heels, but it's a solid plan. Better than his. The right thing to do is swallow his pride and do what needs done. Finally, he nods, his expression still frustrated, but softer. "Right. Yes. Good idea. I'll start gathering samples."
no subject
Because their roles have just reversed, he realizes. Usually Qubit's the one who keeps his head on straight, takes charge, herds the cats, thinks outside the box. But he lost his focus, and Peter stepped up to bat like it was the most natural thing in the world.
He's been underestimating him this entire time.
The kid's competent. Still young, but he knows what he's doing. Up till now, Qubit's been framing this situation as something he needs to fix. Which, suddenly, he can't - but he doesn't have to, not on his own.
Part of him still wants to dig in his heels, but it's a solid plan. Better than his. The right thing to do is swallow his pride and do what needs done. Finally, he nods, his expression still frustrated, but softer. "Right. Yes. Good idea. I'll start gathering samples."