[ A trustworthy leader. Scott has heard similar from Charles when he had doubts during his first days of actually leading a team. To hear those same words now from a younger Charles while they're both ripped out of their worlds feels a little full circle. Almost serendipitous, in a way.

His proud smile makes way for something softer, fonder, as if he's remembering all the times Charles has uplifted him when he was struggling. When he had to make hard choices in the field. When he didn't feel good enough to be the leader of the Professor's elite team of mutants.

He's in this state of mind when he hears Charles' question, which just instantly brings him back to that time he feels he'll never see again without blasting someone to kingdom come. ]

You did, and you also kind of didn't. I didn't want to join at first but you've convinced me. [ Then, with a small, teasing quirk of his lips. ] I don't know if you've noticed, Professor, but you have a way with words.

[ This teasing smile, though, returns to his fonder one. ] To hear you can tell I'll be a good leader in your future just by observing me now means a lot. You don't know how much you've inspired me. [ A beat. ] A lot of us, actually.