[He's glad, just a little, that that's the question she asks. And it's selfish. Garrus knows he's hurting her. That guilt's heavy in his mind as he replies in an equally weighty voice, but better this then she go looking like she had to with Liara, and better this than never getting to say goodbye like he'd gone through with the SR-1.]

He's promised to protect it. I landed my own dumb ass here, Shepard, and put it at risk. If I'm... If I'm taken out for a mission I'm not violating my contract, I can't get Palaven in more trouble by possibly fucking up, and he's looking after her interests.

[It still doesn't mean he wants to die. But there's at least some gain from it.]

I'm sorry about the thing with Crichton too. I couldn't have... I had to step in. Everyone could see the dispute growing. But...

[It's another trailing off. Garrus has never been particularly good with words. He knows his strength is in action, but there isn't anything he can do for her right now.]

Shouldn't have let so much time go before apologizing. I figured I had time.

[Garrus chuckles at that. It's a stupid assumption, always. He's used to war. He should know that.]

Don't beat yourself up. This is my fault and my doing. And I... It's been an honor to serve with you, Commander.