[For a few moments, Rodney's just completely still while Carson hugs him back. It's true that this kind of open expression of physical affection is a lot for Rodney, but he's been slowly working his way into it, he's been learning how to do it, learning that sometimes he should do it, because he won't always have the chance. Being separated from everyone on Atlantis has definitely taught him that.

When Carson says 'steady' like that, Rodney actually laughs, shakes his head and pulls back from the hug. Now, he can manage a smile, big and bright and reaching his eyes.]

A few, yeah. Didn't think I'd be seeing you again anytime soon, but I'm glad, you know. I'm really glad.

[A moment, where his abrupt awkwardness is physically palpable in the air around them, and then he shrugs, lifts a hand and drops it.]

You know, I hear the fishing is fantastic here.