Scott listened, nodded, was silent for a moment, then repeated, "Should never be sent. I'm kind of flattered, actually, that you think, just because I'm supposed to be in charge, I can stop him from doing whatever he wants to do."

This was partly a joke, but only partly, and it occurred to him that Sloane might not think much of self- deprecation, coming from a leader. In any case, he suspected Sloane of underestimating Logan -- and he also figured, if that were the case, it would be because Logan wanted him to.

"You're right about field work, though. For all his lone-wolf schtick, Logan's had a lot of success working with partners. You've met one of his favorites already. Miss Pryde," he added, glancing at Sloane to see what kind of reaction that got. A guy who could underestimate Wolverine probably hadn't thought twice about Kitty. "Logan and I have worked together a time or two, of course --"

Scott turned his back and walked to the window, not wanting to betray any unease. Still, Sloane might suspect the subject was making him nervous. Scott weighed the pros and cons, and decided to tell him what he would eventually hear repeated as gossip, if he hadn't all ready.

"Logan and I have always had a complicated relationship --" Looking back now, Scott continued. "He was in love with my wife."