This is such an interesting take on Rodney's character, and it really rings true.

The slow build up of Rodney breaking out of this almost-disconcerting, quiet facade, and what it takes to break him out of that--his work, and then just the realization that people do respond more to the abrasiveness that seems like so essential a part of him today.

On some level, Rodney still thought of himself as a polite person. I just love this so so much.