[ That earns a snort, not dismissive or derisive — just a quiet scoff of obvious agreement. ]

You think I do? Trust me, I'd also much prefer you not mercy-killing me.

[ He sobers quickly enough, settling back in his chair as he continues to watch Fenris with that unflinching blue stare. ]

But that's what's key about it: you. You've got the experience with this under your belt already, you'd know exactly what to look for and you'd know if I did any changing. The second that it went bad, I'd count on you to step in and if I were out of my mind enough to tell you to piss off, I'd count on you finding one way or another to make it right again. If I were partnering with anyone else, I'd scrap it and head back to the drawing board.

[ A shrug of the shoulder still attached. ]

And it's why I'll respect it if you say no now.