“I’m sorry, sir,” Fives says quietly. “I didn’t—I didn’t even consider calling you. I didn’t…”

“Didn’t think I’d let you come along?”

No, that’s not it. Fives knows Rex would have let him come along had he called in. He just honestly hadn’t thought to ask in his panic.

“I wasn’t thinking, sir. I’m sorry,” he says again. Rex stares at him, and must see a bit of Fives’ honest guilt, because he sighs.

“I want you and your brothers to survive this war, Fives. I want every brother to survive this war.” The lingering paleness from the virus combined with the sudden weight of his words makes Rex look worn and tired. “I can’t know what your squad has been through, but I hope you learn that you can rely on me for help. Otherwise there’s no point to me even being Captain.”