He studies her when she looks away, worried for a moment that what Erik told him wasn't actually the whole truth, or that he didn't know about something. But it becomes clear quickly enough that she is feeling guilty about the act of horror that she was forced to do. That she's afraid.

He lets the memories flow into his mind and studies them to get a better picture of what happened - or will happen. Her reluctance assures him that this hasn't damaged her beyond repair, which is a relief beyond measure.

Jean, he murmurs into her mind, pushing his chair a little bit closer to her and reaching with his hand to cup her cheek within his palm. You did what had to be done. I know it's not easy to see it that way and taking life is never - should never be - easy. If it becomes easy, that's when you should worry.

There's a small smile curving over his lips, a smile that holds very little mirth but all the tender feelings in the world. I'm sorry I failed to protect you from that. But you've done a remarkable job at controlling yourself and helping others with your power. Do you remember when I told you that you have nothing to fear when you learn that control? It's not a matter of what you can do but what you choose to do. We're all capable of extreme acts of cruelty and extreme acts of compassion. What becomes of our measure, is what we choose to do.