[Too many ways to answer that question; small things that have piled up over the course of their acquaintance, leading to friendship, then leading to trust. But Markus tidily sets aside any reply that might be too broad, wanting to to answer with the full breadth of his honesty.]

I trust you because you've shown me the kind of person that you are; the footprints of the initiatives you take, how quickly you think, how much you encourage others to analyze and push forward, are all over the network.

[Fitz is always quick to chime in, putting forth theories that shine light on potential paths forward. Quick-fire smart, adaptable. Worth mentioning.]

You adapt. You can think in terms of probability, the highest chances of success, and I trust your mind — maybe even despite what you say about it now — to make those decisions quickly, without hesitating. And you already have experience on your side, something that I certainly don’t question.

[He pauses, though, wondering if that’s still enough. Trying to slowly unwind what's knotted so tightly in the other with gentle hands.]

And I believe you care about those under your command. That all of it is driven forth by a good person. [Eyes search the other, pausing.] But everything I’ve said is just an outside perspective, looking in. Do you believe any of what I just told you?