AN: Hello! Welcome back to the next piece of the story! Odds are this will be the last lighthearted chapter for a bit. Since I can say with 100% certainty that the real shit is gonna down next chapter! I've been planning this part for over a year, so I'm super excited to be able to set it into motion. Also, soon I'll be posting my Milyn sidefic that acts as a supplement to this story pretty soon, so keep an eye out for that!
Hope you enjoy this one! As usual thank you all for reading, reviewing, faving, and following!
Aster's Descendants: Well said! Let's hope they can stop him soon...
Crimson's AXZ: Wow! I'm flattered, I'm glad my story could help get you into the amazing fun that is Ace Attorney! Glad you enjoy their dynamic since it's fun to write :). Yep, see Trucy's here as planned lol.
Yay for open mindedness lol! And I'll see what I can do about perspective switches. It's hard to say at this point because you can argue a few things on why she treats Klavier the way she does... Now, it could be she hated him because he disbarred the guy who helped save her sister (I'd argue this a big reason why) but I can imagine other reasons why she'd call him a fop as well lol. So, I'm in favor of fop. If I have a way I might do so. As for Apollo and Ema...I can't say right now, since it'd spoil the fun. Thanks for reading!
H. Emerson : Happy belated birthday! Cool! I'm glad at least one person would be interested in some side fics. I'm glad you think so! Time to get to work in that case lol.
FSOA: I'm glad! Lol, hiding bricks? Never tried that one! Must be one of the new fangled ones you kids have going nowadays ;).
DJJ680: Yep! Sure did, pal. Underwear on door handles was my idea for real xD. And the other is why I don't drink much hahaha xD.
bwburke94: When is it not necessary to call Zak Gramarye a jerk?
OBSERVER01: Yep, it's back! Yep, yep it's time to fight!
Jack54311: Indeed, perhaps we'll figure out why. Probably! I see him as a merciless player, no button mashing here lol. You might be on to something there lol. But you'll all see what's going on in the few chapters. Lol someone is a MatPat fan, huh?
NNinja: No worries, thanks for your continued support! To be fair I already had my ladder vs stepladder joke during the clue murder mystery arc. Though, maybe on edits I can add another one here in this chapter later. LOL that's an interesting reading xD. Oh, we'll encounter Dr. Hickfield lol. Ah, I imagine that'll be a hoot lol... Ah, thanks for pointing that out, gotta go back and fix it. Lol nope. Though, if he was a playable character...Miles would have wayyy too much fun beating Phoenix to a bloody pulp xD.
JordanPhoenix: Haha kid Trucy for the win! Haha, that's true, it was only those two with nothing to bother em ;). Lol, I don't feel like either of them are super sappy, too much spirit of competition between the two of them. Making unlikely things happen one step at a time lol. Woot! I ship it hahaha ;). Same here, hope you enjoy!
KrypticShizz: Haha, it's a nice goal. Yeah, Vera has been spared luckily. Trucy is the bees knees haha xD. True, though I'm certain he'd be just as suspicious of Lyn for her appearance too. But not like Wright is Scott free... Oo, interesting guess. It's gonna be fun to see if you're right. Thanks!
It took some time to investigate.
But soon enough it was over. I fidgeted as I watched the police and a tow haul off my car with all of its busted out windows. Together we had determined that a few things had been stolen, the car registration, insurance notes, and a pair of gloves I kept in the glove compartment.
As to why, I had no idea.
Miles and I were both questioned on the spot in the parking lot. It must have been amazing to see the same two people be involved in yet another incident so soon.
Two cops who had stayed behind were chatting amongst themselves, reviewing their notes.
I scratched my forehead and then ran a hand down my face. I had expected things to happen, but so fast? What was worse, I wasn't sure what it could have meant by anyone, Kristoph, included stealing stuff from my car.
"There's no need to worry…" Miles began. "...Well, not just yet."
"How comforting," I replied dully.
He frowned, while not directly meeting my gaze as he spoke. "We still haven't checked your apartment."
It was as though a jolt of electricity ran up my spine.
"No," I shook my head, as though I were trying to hide the unwanted possibility from myself. "you don't think...?"
"If your car was ransacked, doing the same to your apartment wouldn't be too far of a stretch."
I felt very cold. Not the type of cold you feel when you accidentally have an ice cube brush against your teeth...it wasn't that type of shock. But rather...the kind of cold you feel on a nice day, when the weather is warm and sunny. The type of cold that gradually sinks in, with the temperature dropping and dropping as night fell, till you're left with nothing but a shiver that never leaves until you stand in front of a heater.
I shook my head. "I don't want to go back."
Miles sighed deeply. "I know you don't. But we have to check."
"And then what? Even if nothing is disturbed, I feel a little on edge staying there, since it was the car and then my office not too long ago."
It was a minute or so before he spoke again, this time looking me directly in the eyes with determination. "Then it makes the most sense for you to stay with me until the matter is settled."
"Wh-wha…?"
"Which means, regardless of a break in or not we still need to head to your apartment to retrieve your personal belongings."
"Wait a minute," I said sweating. "Y-you're serious about that? Me staying with you?"
"Do I look like I'm joking?" he snapped.
"But…"
"But what?"
I found myself flushing. "Uh, well isn't that disrupting your life? And uh...it looks like...we…"
(...It would look like we really were a thing. That moves very fast…)
Miles closed the distance between us, now only being a few inches away from me.
"Listen to me," he said lowly. His gray eyes seemed to be rife with the intensity of an exploding star. "I'm no stranger to 'disruption'. I've no interest in public opinion. I only have interest in one thing: your safety."
He was very serious. When wasn't he, honestly...but, I could tell he was sincere. He really was worried to suggest this. No- not suggest, decide upon. His mind was already made up without my input.
But I had no real desire to protest.
The only other place I could think to stay at in town was at the Gatewater, but even then I wouldn't truly feel safe. Too many nameless faces could be in and out of a hotel after all.
"Thank you," I murmured as I leaned into his chest for a hug.
Silently, he reciprocated giving me a tight protective squeeze. After that, I pulled away feeling slightly more calm, though still on the overall aspect anxious.
We spoke for a bit longer, and not before long us along with a couple of police officers came along to my apartment. Considering the mess in my office and the car today, they didn't mind viewing my place out of precaution.
And as it turned out, Miles was right.
It wasn't apparent at first, as the door to my place was closed, but the lock was busted. I effortlessly opened the door when I realized my key wasn't working, as it had already been open and unlocked.
The police went in before us to make sure no one was present at the moment.
Luckily no one was around, but it was certainly evident that someone had been snooping around the apartment as papers from my office space were strewn about the floor and desk. Documents were ripped out from the nightstand in my bedroom and clothes in drawers were tossed about as well.
Other places inside were undisturbed.
It was clear somebody was looking for something, but it seemed they had a purpose or idea in mind of what they were searching for.
The police had questioned me for any idea as to what someone could want in ripping up my personal spaces.
Of course, I had my suspicions that Kristoph Gavin was behind it. But as to what in the world he could want..
I had no clue.
And that bothered me most. Just what was the purpose of it? To psyche me out? To troll me? There was no way he wasn't planning on something.
What was more odd to me was how it didn't look like anything was missing from here, at least nothing I'd easily notice gone. I wondered if they didn't find whatever it was they were looking for. Perhaps they found it in the car?
I was getting a headache trying figure it out.
After taking notes on the scene and taking my statement, the police were on their way out. They said they'd be doing their best to keep an eye on my place in the meantime. That and they were considering having a someone posted on security detail as a bodyguard of sorts.
Somehow, that made me groan internally. I knew it'd be a damned good idea under these circumstances, but it was just so hard to imagine having to be trailed by a security guard like that living or trying to live my regular life...it just seemed more surreal than ever.
But of course, Miles was all for the idea. In fact, he told them I'd be moving out of this apartment for the time being into his house and that it'd be best to send the guard over there instead.
The police had no complaints to the idea. One of the men thought it could be good because then surveillance of my apartment would be easier. Actually, they could have another man in here sitting and watching over the place, as though I were still living here. And if any suspicious activity or peoples showed up, they'd be taken in for questioning on the spot.
After discussing the idea in a bit more detail, it seemed mutually agreed upon. Some person would be living in apartment essentially acting as me to make the place look livable. Because I was being targeted for some reason, they theorized it might be possible whoever would return.
In the meantime, I'd take my things and live with Miles...
April 21st, 7:46 PM
Miles Edgeworth's residence, Guest room
"You call this a few things?" the prosecutor groaned as he carried the last of my items up into the spare guest room on the second floor.
"I mean, I didn't bring my whole closet so ya," I shrugged indifferently. Of course he would complain after coming up with this idea to begin with.
He muttered something under his breath about women and clothing. I chuckled at his expense.
"In any case, make yourself at home. Like I said before, you can sleep in here or my room, whichever you prefer."
I playfully gasp. "I have an option?"
The prosecutor who had been more solemn than usual today, raised a brow. "Why wouldn't you have an option? You're a guest in my home."
I figured now might be a good time to have some fun. Ever since the investigation of my car and place, the atmosphere was quite dreary. We both knew that this situation could be better, but I didn't want to spend the rest of the day feeling scared or down about it. As long as I was staying here with him, I'd might as well enjoy it, right? Plus, despite his tough guy attitude, I could tell that Miles wasn't feeling that great about the whole thing either. So...distraction time!
Still screwing around, I continued. "Realllllly? It didn't seem like I had an option earlier when it came to staying with you. So, I thought you'd tell me where to go too."
He took his time before responding, as if trying to wrap his head around what I was doing. "...Do you want me to tell you what to do?"
I grinned. "I didn't say that, but it's up to you."
(I mean, since you're so bossy it should be natural.)
"But why should I? You tend to do whatever you want anyway...minus last night," he smirked.
I flushed. Of course, he'd bring it up. "That- that was different."
"Oh, I know."
My flush deepened. I cleared my throat. "Anyway! Come on! Play the game with me!"
He sighed. "Lyn, what are you on about now? A game?"
"I can't rebel without a proper authority figure to rebel against! It's only the natural state of things. Without someone telling me what to do, what is my purpose? I am a lost child…a rebel without a cause!"
The man rolled his eyes at me as he always did. "I think the correct term would be 'petulant' child."
"Ya, ya, same difference," I waved a hand.
"I still fail to see the point."
"Awww," I lowered my head in sadness, but then I showed feigned inspiration. "I know. How about we do this as an example?"
Edgeworth looked at me questionably.
"What are we having for dinner?" I asked.
"I was going to make steak and-"
"Don't want it."
"Why?"
"Because I want pizza!" I said grinning.
"Don't you have enough unhealthy food normally? It's a wonder you're not as huge as a house at this point."
"You. Are. So. Boring. Are you trying to keep your sexy figure or something?"
He folded his arms. "...Does that even warrant a response?"
"So, yes?"
He tapped a finger on his arm. "No pizza."
"But-"
"Save it for later. You're going to help me cook, since as I recall you have next to no cooking skills and you could learn a thing or two."
"Well…" I folded my arms, mockingly looking in discontent before smirking. "You'll have to make me."
His expression went from one of a calm assurance, to flat out haughtiness. "You're aware that this is a losing battle, correct?"
"All talk and no game! Make me!" I said sticking my tongue out. "If you don't, I'll steal your wallet and order 30 pizzas!"
He looked at me in alarm. "You wouldn't…"
I reached into my back pocket, revealing my hand, a typical two fold black wallet. "Oh, but I would."
"Ngh! Is that when you touched my butt earlier?!"
He was bending over as he was picking up some of my stuff to carry earlier and it was then I decided I might as well claim my pervertedness for what it was right then and there. I cackled maniacally in response.
Miles determinedly took a step forward towards me. "So, which shall I sue you for? Sexual harassment or pickpocketing?"
I took a step back in nervous excitement. Miles was blocking the door, so in order to get out of here, I'd have to get by him. A feat that definitely would prove to be challenging. I couldn't brush by in any way. I had only real shot to get this done…
I leapt to the floor and attempted to make a slide between the prosecutor's legs to make my grand exit. I had just about scurried under him into the open hallway, until the man grabbed me by the foot.
"Nooooooooooooooooooo!" I cried theatrically as I was captured like a dumb hero in a horror movie.
"Give me my wallet!"
I shook my head, laughing. I knew I was out of luck, there was no way I could run out. But I wouldn't go down without a fight!
The wallet I was holding by my stomach, so I curled up into a fetal position on the floor, protecting the wallet like some sort of armadillo? Whatever.
"Really? This is the best you can do?" Miles asked. The next thing I felt were my sides being pinched and tickled. I couldn't fight the laughs slipping out and was trying my hardest not to squirm so much as to release my grasp on the wallet.
But he already knew my secret weakness. The demon prosecutor seized hold of my foot and he was merciless. Absolutely vicious as he removed my shoe, tore off my sock and placed his fingers on the bottom of my right foot...and attacking like there was no tomorrow.
I tried to hold on, but failed miserably. I laughed more than before and lost grip of the wallet as I flailed my leg helplessly. Miles snatched the black wallet, beating me to the punch.
"Hmph. Nice try, but futile in the end," he said gloating over me.
Taking a second to catch my breath, I sat up. "That's...where you're wrong."
He watched me curiously as I stood up and took out my cell phone. I began to dial a number.
"What are you…?"
"I already memorized your credit card number. All I have to do is a place an order!" I chortled.
"Nghhh! You brat! You wouldn't dare!"
"Hehehe! But I am!" I laughed making a beeline out of the room.
Behind me, I heard the pounding of footsteps. If I could get into a room and shut the door, it'd be a victory for me, but it wasn't in the cards. Miles had long legs and was the superior runner. He managed to grab me by the arm and then grab me by the shoulders, stopping me dead in my tracks.
He snatched the phone out of my hand and the ended the call. He took a huge sigh of relief.
I could only laugh at his expense.
The prosecutor glared at me.
"Hm? What's wrong? You stopped me in time," I smiled tauntingly. "You know, I didn't even memorize it. I just wanted to see how you'd react."
"Lyn…"
I didn't know why, but irritating Miles was just a hobby of mine. There was no one else who'd get this riled up and competitive with me. To me, I wasn't sure if there was anything better than seeing him let loose and forget his stuck up self even if it was just for a second doing something absurd.
My thoughts break as I'm forced against the wall. "M-Miles?"
Those hawk like eyes were piercing as he was staring me down. Though, he wasn't upset. He seemed rather… passionate.
"As you can see, you've lost," he pointed out.
I swallowed hard, suddenly feeling as dry as the Sahara. "Ayup... You're the winner. I'm the loser."
His lips curled into a tiny self satisfied smile.
"Now, that that is over with, you're helping me cook. Not only for tonight, but for whenever I cook, which is quite often."
"Awww but-"
A warm hand, lifts up my face from my chin. His face was only inches away from mine causing my heart to beat a little faster. The hallway suddenly felt nonexistent.
"Did you not comprehend me? I said, you will assist me with dinner preparations for now on. Is that understood?"
The smart ass in me wanted to say no, but my body had a mind of its own. I stiffly nodded.
"Use your words." The tone of his voice smacked me awake. There was just something so demanding and ...cool about them.
"Y-yes, sir! I will help with dinner..." I blurted out, slightly flushed. Jeesh. When was the last time I even called him sir?
It was his turn to laugh.
"So, this is the game…" he said amused. "I suppose I don't have any issues taking part. However, I think there should be severe consequences for the losing party."
"Severe...consequences…?"
I thought I saw those steely gray eyes have a flash of mischief. "Yes, after all, games worth playing should have high stakes. And if you think I don't have my own tricks up my sleeves against your shenanigans at this point you're highly mistaken."
Odd. I suddenly felt fearful. And a bit...eager.
I swallowed. He was still holding my face up, looking down on me. We stood like that for only another moment as he decided to lean in closer. On instinct I closed my eyes.
"Oh? What are you doing?" he asked playfully, pulling back.
I opened my eyes. "H-huh…?"
"Did you think I was going to do something? Like kiss you perchance?"
I started to pout. "You…"
"Perhaps if you behave you can earn one," he smirked as he began to leave me in the dust.
"Miles... you smug jerk!"
He moved on as if he didn't hear me, down the hall and to the stairwell. "It's probably a good idea to start unpacking. I'll call you when I start cooking."
Nrgh...How dare he? I have to earn that?! Hmph. As much as I admit, it wasn't a bad strategy. I might actually lose because of it.
No. I shook my head, trying to break myself free of that...stupor I was in. I wouldn't let him get to me. I swore to it. I'd be the victor of the next round.
I strode back to the guest room feeling a little more calm without his presence. I spent the next hour putting my clothes away and figuring out where to leave some personal items for fun. The room was pretty basic, but there was more than enough space for what I had brought over.
I laid down on the bed, looking up at the ceiling. I mean, I knew my life was weird, but this was...It was really weird.
Here I was in Edgeworth's home. Living here. Would this really work out? I had to wonder if I'd be safe here. Or if this would put Miles in harm's way as well…
Shaking my head, I tried to brush those depressing thoughts aside. There will be a guard, and the two of together is better than just me being on my own ultimately. And I knew I could trust him. I knew I could rely upon him.
Everything...would be fine. It had to be.
And speaking of that, with all that had happened, I still hadn't had the time to talk to Mia and update her. And well, then there was the matter of Maya...if Phoenix hadn't already spilled the beans about, well, everything I'd need to fill her in too.
I sighed. I would probably see her soon, not really on my own accord, though. There was no way Phoenix had been talking to her and didn't mention his newly adopted daughter who happened to be around the same age as Pearl.
But drawing me out of those thoughts was Miles calling me from downstairs to help with food. I trotted down to the steps and into the fiery hells of the kitchen.
April 21st, 9:38 PM
Miles Edgeworth's residence, Kitchen
Dinner was great- minus my role in it.
When it came to using my hands for anything other than playing the piano, I was sure they were useless.
Miles had handled making the steaks. He tried to leave me in charge of peeling potatoes with a knife.
I cut myself a couple of times and managed to get the skin off of all of two potatoes. And eventually, he just took the knife away from me like a child and started doing it himself.
Then, he tried to instruct me on making vegetables- frozen green beans, so in his own words, should be pretty basic to manage. All I had to do was put water in the pot, add some vegetables to it, and leave the lid on to steam it on the stove.
I'm not sure what I did or what I didn't do. But somehow they ended up completely charred.
At this point, I had been delegated to only mash up the potatoes when they were boiled. Beyond that, I was told "to not touch anything without my supervision".
I'm pretty sure that's why dinner ended up as a success. Me hardly doing anything. Miles said we'd need a long weekend to go over basics since I was a train wreck. But I helped clean up. I sucked at making stuff, but I didn't mind doing dishes. Though, I had to convince at first that I wasn't gonna break any of his plates.
Once the kitchen was cleaned up, we checked up on Pess, and then started getting ready for bed.
I made Miles go first for showering because I was already sure I took a long time in the bathroom and I didn't want to hear his complaints.
When I was finished showering, I entered his room. He was already in bed reading. "Still being a nerd at this hour?"
He briefly looked up from his book. "It's called being informative. And yes, I tend to read before bed."
I climbed on top of the covers to the left side of him. I was still feeling pretty warm from the shower, so i wasn't ready to go under just yet. I tried to peer over his shoulder to see what he was reading, but the text was wayyyy too small. "Dude, you're gonna go blind reading stuff like that."
"I'm fine."
"What are you reading about anyway?"
"The legal system in France."
"Ah. Cool."
Miles returned to reading, clearly engrossed. A long time passed, or maybe it just felt like a long time. I just knew I was bored. I didn't feel doing anything at the moment besides staying around this dork.
I decided to make the most of this opportunity I'd been given. This was prime time for annoyance.
With the stealth of a baboon, I launched my pointer finger into his cheek. In response, the man blinked slowly and turned to me.
"What are you doing?"
"Poking, what else?"
"Stop that."
It's then I kept prodding my finger into his cheek and side.
"Lyn."
"What?"
"Stop that," he said with far more force. It was as close to a warning as I would get.
I decided to ignore it. "And what are you going to do about it?"
He sat his book aside on the nightstand and pulled the covers over him down. I never stopped ramming my finger into his side. Miles grabbed my poking hand, but it only served to make me take out the other to begin another attack. Using his free hand he blocked the other poker. I tried to twist out of the lock, but he quickly imprisoned both wrists in one hand and forced them against the wall.
My hands were stuck, but I still had my legs. I aimed to use one to get him to weaken the grip on my wrists, gunning to force it into his arm. But he had already foreseen my plan as my leg was in motion and essentially, kept it in a leg lock.
"I don't know why you did this, since it should be clear I can outmatch on sheer strength alone."
I did my best to wriggle free my last leg, but much to my chagrin he sat on it.
"Hey, get off!" I whined.
"You're sealed off," he declared.
Crap. He was right. The hold on my wrists was tight, and not even my foot on the leg which was held by him could move.
"Alright. You win," I sighed. "You can get off of me now."
He dropped the leg he'd been holding in his other arm...and then stretched both of his legs on mine. "I don't think so."
"Let me go," I started to laugh.
"I figure I'll let you go and then you'll start attacking me again because you're stubborn. So the answer is no."
"Miles-"
"I'll release your arms, and you still won't have the strength to push me off," he said dryly as he dropped my wrists.
Once freed, I rotated them both to loosen up. But he hadn't been playing, Miles was still sitting on me, now even having the nerve to reach for his book.
With my free hands, I pushed his chest, but he only moved slightly. Definitely not enough to push him off. And believe me, I tried over and over many times, with the most results having the man sway slightly off kilter, still able to bury himself in his book.
"Okayyyyy. I'm sorry I bothered you. Now, please, please, please get off of me? My legs are beyond asleep since you're heavier than me…"
He looked down in amusement for a moment before closing his book. "I've read enough for the night, so I suppose I can free you."
"Yes, finally..."
In a painfully slow fashion, he removed his long lean legs off of mine. "I don't know why you had to even push me like that."
"I was bored."
"There are number of things for you to do that don't involve bothering me."
"But bothering you is my number #1 hobby!"
As a response, he swatted my head with his book.
"Ow...well it's not entirely true," I said. "Well, mostly true. But I guess I wanted to…um."
"Wanted to what?"
"Wanted to keep hanging out with you...and have your attention...something like that…" Ugh. I hated saying anything like this out loud. Ever.
"Is that right?" Miles started to smirk. "You could have said that, you know. I think it would have been far easier than starting a losing fight."
"Hmph."
"But you want my attention that much?"
"I...mean I don't know why. Since you're a huge dork," I said arms folded.
He scoffed. "Will you always be like this? Cute how you deny the glaringly obvious."
"There's nothing cute here. The only obvious thing is that you're kind of an egotistical jerk," I said punching lightly in the arm.
"How your words wound me," he chuckled. "But as I said before, if you use your words, it'll go easier. So just admit it and I'll give you my full and undivided attention."
"A-admit what exactly?"
"That you're hopelessly smitten over me, to the point where you beg for my attention in a number of foolish ways."
Oh, he was just eating this shit up. My face was flushed yet again, but I shook my head determinedly. "No way, I'm saying that dumb stuff!"
"Very well," Miles said almost happily. He stood up, dropping his book on the nightstand beside him. Then he walked over to the light switch on the wall and flicked them down.
I blinked trying to adjust to the close to pitch black lighting. "Wha..."
"Goodnight," he said as he climbed back into the bed.
(Are you serious right now?)
He was trying to ice me out in the most totally unfair way ever.
I didn't want to say that dribble, but the more I tried to stay silent and even lie down under the sheets, the more restless I became.
"Oh, alright! If you really the ego boost that much I'll do it," I blurted out. "… I guess sometimes I do lots of dumb stuff to get your attention. And you have to admit it works since we're here now!"
"And why do you beg for attention so much, Lyn?" Through the dark I could see a triumphant smile.
If only I could wipe it off his face. But with few options, I had to suck it up. "Nrg...because I...I am very much into you…"
"Was that so hard?" Miles taunted.
"I feel like I betrayed myself and everything I stand for."
"I guess we'll just have to practice so you can say it with more ease. Every single day while you're here."
"W-what? No! Isn't that enough for your oversized ego?"
"What can I say? My time comes at a price. If I give it to you, I think it's only fair I get something in exchange."
I pouted. "So, you like my humiliation?"
"I can ask you the same question."
"...Touche." He was getting better at beating me. Was my game weakening? I needed new ways to step it up.
"In any case," the demon prosecutor started. "You have my undivided attention."
I inched closer and wrapped my arms around him. Without hesitation, planted a chaste kiss on his lips. "Thank you."
"Hm? For what?"
"For letting me stay with you right now. You don't have to and I know it's probably an inconvenience for how you normally go about your days."
He shook his head. "I've already told you not to worry about it. It's fine and if it helps make you safe, I have no issue."
"Still..."
Miles laid a hand on my cheek, lowering my face slightly as he kissed my forehead. "I'm starting to wonder if you're more serious than you let on."
"Huh? Me serious? That's your job."
"You just like the distractions," he replied caressing the side of my face. "I know you're worried, but right now this for the best. And I suppose, you can aggravate me more often now too."
"Oh, so you're open to it, huh? You like my pranks, don't you?" I excitedly asked looking directly at him.
The gray eyes, hard to see in this dark, didn't tell me much. "I plead the 5th."
I bit the bottom of his chin. "Tell meeeee."
"No."
"But, I spilled my guts to you earlier!"
"You didn't have to."
Disappointed, I buried my face in his neck and bit as hard as I could. Miles just laughed at me.
"Don't even try."
I pulled away from what I guessed with slightly red skin. "Just tell me! Yes or no!"
"How about I tell you this instead?"
Before I could ask what, he ran a hand on my head and tugged my hair. The warmth of his lips pressed against my own silenced any other thoughts I was having.
He broke the deep kiss, allowing me some air before kissing my cheek. "Goodnight."
"Huh...? But you-"
"Unlike the other night, I'd like to be to work preferably on time tomorrow."
I sighed in defeat, though it wasn't an awful one. It was just his way of avoiding the answer. I released him from my hug.
"Goodnight, Miles."
Satisfied, he turned his back to me. I followed suit. As much as I would like to do that cheesy cuddling the whole night, it was rather hard to sleep like that. At least I could still feel him next to me regardless. I could see why people liked sleeping together as it made me feel more protected. And because of that it took way less time for me than usual to pass out.
Time?
Location?
The sky is gray. Yet, the ground is sandy. I'm not wearing any shoes. I feel the wet grains of sand in between my toes. I'm not sure why, but it's somewhat refreshing. Before me is just a barren beach, wetter in some places than others by the coastline.
I walk around, debating whether or not I should try my hand at making a sand castle since I'm here. But as I'm taking a seat, a voice calls out.
"I wouldn't do that if I were you," the feminine voice said lightly. "Most of the sand is pretty wet and cold. Not a pleasant feeling to sit in."
I grin slightly. "Thanks for the heads up, Mia."
"Of course," she said tilting her head. "So how's it been? What happened at court?"
I tell her all the events that have transpired since that fateful day in court. By the time I'm done recalling the events Mia is looking at me with wide eyes.
"First, congratulations on securing Wright's badge. Second, congratulations with Mr. Edgeworth."
I laugh sheepishly in response. "Thanks."
"But now, it's pivotal that you capture Kristoph," she spoke seriously. "With all the attacks on you, including your car and apartment, it's too risky to let him roam free. He's probably on to you because you had the page. I have no doubt that he hired someone to retrieve it from you to plant it back on Phoenix."
"But how?" I ask. "Our lead with the Mishams is gone. Maybe at most he'll get a slap on the wrist with the forgery since I have feeling he can his way out of a more serious punishment."
Mia frowned deeply. "I'm unsure to be honest. Having guards right now is your best bet. Phoenix had better watch out too because I have a feeling Kristoph will try again with another plan to harm his reputation if not something worse."
"I see."
"I'm sorry I can't suggest anything of use now."
I shrug. It is what it is. "Actually, can you answer a question?"
"Shoot."
"If I'm in her body, what's going on with the other Lyn?" I ask. "Sometimes I get traces of her feelings."
"Hm, I see," she closed her eyes. "You could say her consciousness was put to sleep when you were placed into her body. But as time went on, her consciousness started to wake up."
"Meaning...?"
"...As more time passes, her consciousness will be fully awake and alert to what's going on, if she isn't already. What it means for you is..."
She folds her arms. She doesn't look pleased. "...that you'll have something like a split personality."
"A split personality?" That sounded...not fun.
"Well, a body is meant to hold one soul. Not two. Not usually. Two souls in one body has been done before, but it usually ends up in one of two ways: 1)The two souls eventually merge into one, losing their sense of selves becoming a mix of the two. Or 2) They take turns taking control of the body, one soul watches, while the other one has control of the physical realm."
"What will happen to me?" I demand. "Will I merge with the other Lyn?"
"Truthfully, I'm unsure," Mia says. "I do know, that the longer you stay here the more present the other Lyn will become. So it's in your best interest to find a way to nag Kristoph before it reaches that point where it becomes a real possibility."
Crap. There was no way I would lose myself to another person. It would be akin dying. I had to figure out a way to bring that bastard in soon.
"But, I'm sure you'll figure something out like you did to save Phoenix's badge. I believe in you."
Normally, that would have sounded encouraging, but right now it made me feel more pressured. "Thanks, I'll think of something."
Not like I had much of a choice, did I? Unless I wanted to take my chances with a split personality or a merge...
I started to walk away from her with a slight nod. The scenery of the beach was fading. I had to figure something out. I doubted I would sleep much tonight, hearing that news.
April 30th, 7:05 AM
Miles Edgeworth residence, Bedroom
It had been a little over a week since I spoke with Mia. I hadn't told Miles about the possibility of me merging with the other Lyn yet, considering all the effort he'd put into helping calm down about this move in situation. I was worried, but was aware of the fact of how it doesn't do anything. So, I did my best to continue on...as the new usual? An early morning routine and guard tailing us all day and night. Yep. Totally usual.
I was used to sleeping in until the last possible second before I had to get ready for work, but not Miles. He'd leave his alarm to go off about 2 hours before we needed to get to the prosecutor's office. And for that, I hated him a little. Mainly because the alarm would almost always wake me up before him. Today was an exception, however. Once the YEOOW sound started for a few moments, Miles got to his phone rather fast and turned it off.
I turned on my left side, away from him, but he was not fooled.
"Good morning, Lyn," he said, stroking my head.
I could only respond with a grunt. Using words at this hour of day was ludicrous.
"I know you're up, so why don't you come with me?"
"Nooo..." I moaned. That was the other thing he liked to do as well. He'd normally get up early on most days to do some sort of exercise and shower. So far, I had been convinced to go once. Last time I admitted was alright, but old habits were hard to break especially for a person as lazy as me.
"It's a wonder how you pull yourself together for work," Miles chuckled. I felt a creak in the bed and a hand push some of my hair aside as he whispered into my ear. "Would you be up more often if I . . ."
My eyes widened and face flushed once he finished that idea. I also made sure to swat him with my arm. "That's really...something coming from you."
"You still didn't answer my question," he said playfully stroking my shoulder.
"Err..." I pulled the covers off of me. There was no way I would answer that now. I'd probably need a cold shower first. "...I need to go to the bathroom. Really bad."
With that I hopped up and left the room, not daring to look back. I could hear him laughing at my expense in the background, though.
(Wait. I've been tricked again, haven't I?)
At the last second as I stepped foot into the bathroom, I realized he only said that stuff to get me up earlier. I clicked my tongue. Jerk.
I shut the door behind me. It was alright, though. Today was hopefully gonna be a good day. After all, Phoenix had invited Miles and I as well as Maya and Pearl to watch Trucy perform at the Wonder Bar tonight. It would be fun to see first hand and plus I hadn't seen Maya in a while so it'd be a good time to catch up...
I splash some cold water on my face, before I started brushing my teeth. Though, I had to admit, I was a little worried. Maya could be nosy sometimes. She might try to pry into certain classified details and badger me about them relentlessly. I'd need a plan to come up with in case that happened. Maybe I could get her drunk? That would be a distraction.
No matter, I thought finishing up the laborious process of teeth cleaning. It would be nice to go out and do something fun, instead of constantly trying to come up with a plan to defeat Kristoph and leave before it was too late.
I took a quick shower and headed out to find my clothes I laid out in the guest room. In a few minutes, I was dressed and ready to go with plenty of time to spare. I decided to avoid Miles before he had the chance to troll me again, by going down to the kitchen to make breakfast. WHICH, I might add is one of the couple of things I can cook without destruction and mayhem.
Before that, I was greeted by Pess jumping on me as I was about to enter the kitchen. She's cute, but rather big for someone my size. I figured she wanted food and water and refilled her bowl some dry dog food and fresh water. Happily, she trotted over to her doggie dish and ate sitting down.
In the kitchen, I hopped to the fridge and take out a few eggs and bread. Because I wasn't in the mood to make something large, I settled for some eggs and toast.
It was odd, but for once I was really enjoying making breakfast. Maybe it was because I was with someone I could cook for that made it marginally more exciting or at least more satisfying than usual. Sometimes Miles would make something for the two of us, but lately we wanted different things. Then again, it was still odd how I was saying this at all for a number of reasons. When I was living alone in my apartment, I'd be awful at getting proper meals that weren't take out. Sometimes I'd even skip breakfast.
I was at the frying pan with a spatula on the stove when I heard footsteps. "Don't set fire to my house."
"Shut up, I told you I could make breakfast food," I said sliding the eggs around in the pan. "Can you get the toast?"
He walked by me, to the toaster where he popped up the bread. "Hm. Just in time."
"Glad you're good for something," I joked, finishing up the creation of scrambled eggs.
"Can I have some?"
"No, all six of these eggs are mine," I said sticking my tongue out before I rolled my eyes. "Duh, I made some for you too."
Miles grabbed a couple of plates and laid two pieces of toast on each. He put those as well as utensils on the table. "Just checking. I think anyone who's watched you eat would ask to be safe."
I elbowed him in the side before I carried the pan over two the plates on the table. I dumped an equal amount of eggs on both plates. "Why you gotta be so mean today?"
As I was placing the pan and spatula back on the stove, Miles squeezed my side. "Just trying to make you laugh."
Not like I was really mad or anything, but that did make me smile. "I know."
"Are you sure everything is fine?" he asked sharply glancing at me.
I guessed he did notice my contemplative behavior more often than not lately. "I'm good...Something is on my mind, but I'd rather tell you tomorrow so today isn't spoiled."
The prosecutor frowned slightly, but accepted my answer. "Alright, but you promise to talk about it definitely tomorrow?"
I nodded. "Cross my heart and hope to die."
"Alright," he said. "I'd rather not have a scenario like before if it can be avoided."
"Yes, yes, I know," I said waving it off. I took a seat on the right, picking up my fork. "You'll hear about the ugly details tomorrow. But for now, shut up and eat. It'll prove to you I can make something half way decent."
He snorted. I was pretty sure he was skeptical, considering the other attempts at helping him in the kitchen. But I proved him wrong as he admitted that my eggs were good. We finished eating and spent some time talking before it was time to go to work.
My car was still in the shop getting its windows replaced and other maintenance checks, so we went together to and from work in Miles' car lately. Luckily, he compromised with me in terms of work hours. Instead of staying until 6, we'd leave together at 5. I'd shoot my brains out if I had to stay there an hour later than what I needed. Besides, tonight we'd need to go early to have enough to be ready for the performance at the Wonder Bar.
April 30th, 2:45 PM
Prosecutor's office, Room 404
"One day moreeeeee, another day another destiny, on this never ending road to calvary-" There was a knock at my door, which caused me to stop belting out show tunes. I started listening to music to keep my sanity working on all this paperwork.
"Come in," I said removing my ear buds.
"Good afternoon, Ms. Doom!" huffed Detective Gumshoe.
"Afternoon, detective," I nodded. It had been some time since I'd seen him. "How have you been?"
"Great! I just got a raise, so I can get the fancy spicy Korean noodles I've been wanting!"
"...Sounds heavenly," I grinned. Typical Gumshoe. "What brings you to my office today?"
He walked over to my desk and reached into his pocket pulled out a giant manilla envelope. "They want you to file away this case here, sir."
I sighed. The precinct had been doing this a lot in the past few days. I figured it was another old file that the statue of limitations was out or about to be out on. "Got it. You can leave it on my desk."
The detective nodded and gently placed the envelope on my somewhat messy desk. But instead of leaving, he stood awkwardly loitering in front of the desk.
"Um, Detective Gumshoe, is there something else you needed?" I asked. I really needed to finish the full soundtrack. Next I was gonna play Do You Hear The People Sing and no one should be around to hear me sing along to that.
"Oh! Sorry, sir. I was just thinking," he laughed to himself. "I wanted to say congratulations!"
"Hm? Congratulations for what?"
"For you and Mr. Edgeworth FINALLY getting together! What else?" he huffed. "I knew you could do it!"
"Erm, thanks," I flushed. "Wait. How did you find out?"
"Oh, well you know. The word always travels fast in the precinct," he said wriggling his brows.
(If you guys have enough time to gossip down there, then why don't you have enough time to properly look into crimes...?)
"Alright. Well, it's no big deal."
"But sir! It is! You caught a big fish! A big kahuna! Lots of women have been trying to get Mr. Edgeworth for years! It's rare that he dates anyone. In fact, there's been plenty of rumors going around that he's gay."
(I probably shouldn't tell him I used to write Wrightworth fics.)
"Right, I get it."
"And! Everyone is pretty sure he's going to become the next chief prosecutor!"
It was at this I raised a brow. "Is that right?"
Gumshoe nodded vigorously. "With how hard he works, it's definitely gonna happen sooner than later."
Seeing how Miles was so passionate about improvement in courts, it didn't strike me as bizarre. It would make sense as the next step in his career.
"So you see, sir, you've scored big time!"
I could only laugh at this point over his enthusiasm. "I get it, detective. It's a big deal...thanks for your support."
"Of course! I saw it from the beginning!" he announced proudly. "Oh! You know what?"
"Hm?"
"You and Mr. Edgeworth should come with me and Maggey for a double date! It'll be a good time!" he grinned. "What do you say?"
Oh dear. A double date...with Gumshoe and Maggey? I could already imagine the epic train wreck night that would follow. Something ridiculous would happen no doubt with the luck those two had. My first instinct was to decline, but looking at the oversized teddy bear that was Gumshoe I found myself caving faster than what I would have liked. He was so excited about this... I couldn't just say no, could I? The guy's helped me and everyone out at his own expense so many times over too...Gah. Miles probably wouldn't like this but...
I forced an awkward smile. "S-sure! We would love to. Just give us...a weeks notice about it?"
He didn't see through my faked smile whatsoever. "Whooop! I can't wait! I'll let you know the details so we can set up a time and place for next week!"
Oh jeez...
He skipped out of the room like a kid playing hopscotch. "I'll see you around, Ms. Doom!"
Miles was gonna kill me.
Though, he could kill me today...or later. I debated when to tell him this tidbit of news.
I figured if I told him now, he'd do his best to back out of it. So, it might be better if I spring it on him later where he was trapped by social convention.
I couldn't help but laugh a little bit, though. I knew it'd be bad, but the question was how bad would it turn out? If anything I could see Miles more embarrassed for change, so it was a win on my part...plus it was nice distraction for this moment in time.
Besides my issue with nailing Kristoph Gavin as soon as possible, something else made me worried.
Klavier.
I knew that that trial shook him up, but he hadn't been in the prosecutor's office since then. I checked daily to see if he ever came by to his office, but nothing. He wouldn't answer any calls or messages I left. Nothing new from the Gavinners either.
I hoped he was alright. Besides pumping him for information on Kristoph, I did like him. He was a little haughty here and there, but he had a good heart, totally unlike his brother. I felt bad about how it all turned out, but it was probably better to find out now than another 7 years, right?
Something would give sooner or later. Or so I sincerely hoped.
But until then, there was only today. And the day at the office wasn't over yet, unfortunately.
So it was back to filing and Les Mis for me...
Until around 5.
I hadn't realized it but Miles had been waiting for me outside my office, knocking on the door for a few minutes. Once he grew tired of waiting, he walked in only to catch me mid show tune standing on my couch waving my imaginary flag for France...
It wasn't as embarrassing as the fart I had in the mansion, but I felt like I wanted to bury my head in the sand. As you can imagine, he mocked me for the entire car ride down to the Wonder Bar.
April 30th, 6:45 PM
The Wonder Bar
We got there just on time to watch the performance. The bar was a bit more crowded than what I remembered. I guessed people were into their magic tricks.
I had to admit, I was impressed. For an eight year old, Trucy certainly had a strong stage presence. I'm sure it was one of the few good things she inherited from the family. She did a few different tricks- bending spoons, making cards float, turning water into ice, and of course the Amazing Mr. Hat. That was the finale that blew everyone's minds and earned her a lot of applause.
Once the show was over, we were all able to move around freely. Some exited the bar after the show, while others went to seats to be served food. In the crowd, I spotted Maya first. "Hey, Maya!"
"Lyn!" she turned to me and ran over. The spirit medium gave me a tight hug that threatened to crush me. "Long time no see!"
"Y...eah. Definitely," I breathed out, patting her on the back. Finally, she let go.
Next to her, there was a child in a pink acolyte outfit with a pretzel shaped hair. "So, this is Ms. Lyn, Mystic Maya?"
Maya nodded. "Yep! This is Pearly, Lyn."
"Nice to meet you, Pearl!" I grinned. I hadn't actually met Pearl in person here, until now. But she looked just as cute as she did in the games.
Pearl replied with a shy smile.
"Well, Lyn you have a lot of explaining to do!" Maya said puffing her cheeks out.
"Huh-"
"How could you not tell me you from another universe?! Especially how you got there with the help of my sister at that? Are there more burgers there? Should I call you Nyl for now on?"
I guess Phoenix spilled the beans to her. I would have been mad, except for the fact that Maya didn't seem to think it was that crazy. "Uhm, I didn't know how you'd react? It's kinda weird. I think the amount of burgers is the same. And...no. My name is actually Lyn as well."
"Hmph! Well, it doesn't matter much! We're still friends! Both of you!"
I could only smile. "Alright, fair enough. If anything crazy goes down, I'll let you know."
"You better," she said leaning over with a wide toothy grin. "And speaking of that! I heard about you and Mr. Edgeworth!"
"Oh, haha. That…" I was already flushing.
"I knew it! You were totally love struck!"
"Maya, shut up!" I said growing warming, but laughing too. "You're so embarrassing…"
"Oh, does that mean Ms. Lyn's special someone is Mr. Edgyworth?" asked Pearl excitedly.
"Yep!"
Pearl squealed. "Ahhh, that's great Ms. Lyn! Now you have a knight in shining armor!"
I was ready to bury my head not in the sand, but in the core of the earth. Knight in shining armor…? Soooo cheesy. But somehow I guess it was true in a sense...he always has my back. And literally protected me at one point in time.
Gah.
I had to change the topic.
"A-anyway! What about you? How's training been?"
"Oh, you know, the usual. Standing in the cold for hours barefoot in meditation," she grinned. "Nothing I can't handle."
Mentally, I shuddered at the idea.
"Buuuuuut..."
Oh no. She was gonna keep badgering me about everything. And God knows how long it would take to explain everything...
"Hey everyone!" It was Phoenix walking through with Trucy.
"Hey Nick!" said Maya giving him a hug.
"Hi, Mr. Nick!"
"Hey," I nodded. Thank jebus! I was spared for the time being.
"You did a great job, Trucy!" Maya said with her fists clenched. "Mr. Hat was awesome!"
"Yeah!" said Pearl jumping up and down excitedly. "Mr. Hat really is amazing!"
Trucy smiled while sticking out her tongue slightly. "Thank you!"
I chimed in too. "Great work, Trucy! I see a young professional in the making."
"Thanks, Aunty Lyn!" she giggled. "I work hard for my money, after all. Pretty sure I'm the bread winner of this family."
Phoenix's shoulder's drooped as he began to sweat. "It could be since my clients don't usually pay me consistently..."
"Where's Uncle Miles?" asked Trucy.
"Oh, he went to the bathroom," I said. "He should be back soon."
"In the mean time, why don't we find some seats?" suggested Phoenix. "People are clearing out so there's plenty of space to sit down."
We grabbed some seats on the right side of the bar. Maya, Pearl, and Trucy all sat on the back buttoned wall seats. The tiny tables were in the middle of the wall seats and chairs. Phoenix sat across from Maya in a chair and I took a seat across from Trucy. Miles could take the one in the middle because if he Phoenix were to start bickering, which I figured they would, they could do it right next each other instead of between me.
After a couple of minutes, Miles found us taking the middle seat. He exchanged hellos with everyone and praised Trucy's work on stage. Trucy happily ate his compliment up with a huge smile. Minus the abandonment, could it be that Phoenix just adopted her because how darn cute she was?
But the calm didn't last because in a few seconds, it began...
"Well, well, well," said Maya chipperly turning her attention to Miles. "It's the man of the hour!"
He raised a brow. "What do you mean by that?"
Maya opened her mouth, but before she could say anything, it was Pearl who beat her to the punch.
"Mr. Edgyworth!" said Pearl putting her hands on her hips. "You'd better take good care of Ms. Lyn! You have to always protect your princess!"
Yep, I figured it was a good time to sink into my chair at this point.
"Protect my p-princess?" he uttered, just red as his suit.
(Maybe curling up into a ball would be better?)
"Yeah! Just like Mr. Nick always does for Mystic Maya! He always saves her no matter what!" she says jumping up and down. In the very least, I caught a glimpse of Phoenix and Maya looking slightly embarrassed now.
"Pearls…" Maya said sighing.
"Uhm...I see," said Miles completely unsure of what to say. "I'll...do my best."
Pearl frowned. "That doesn't sound anything like a deklaretion of love!" She was rolling up her sleeves now.
Miles inched his chair away from her in case she tried to hit him.
"I- what I meant to say was that…" he took a small breath, looking a cross between shy and serious.
"...I will always do what is in my power to protect Lyn and keep her safe from harm."
Pearl's mouth dropped open. She then put two of her small hands on her face. "Awww! That was sweet, Mr. Edgyworth!"
I wonder if he really meant it...
Miles said nothing more, but looked off to the side holding his arm. Any composure he had was gone, and all that was left was a disgruntled man.
"The plus side is you haven't been slapped by her," said Phoenix weakly trying to make Miles feel better.
"Hmph. I don't know what the big commotion is about," the demon prosecutor said in mild annoyance. "It would be more exciting if Wright and Ms. Fey finally tied the knot, wouldn't you say?"
At this notion Pearl's eyes lit up like night time stars. "Ah! Mystic Maya! Mr. Nick! We need to plan a wedding!"
"What?" asked Phoenix eyes wide.
"I agree!" said Trucy. "Then I can have a new mommy too!"
"What?" said Maya blinking rapidly.
Miles...clever bastard. He deflected the attention from Pearl on to her favorite otp of all time. And now Trucy was on board.
I reached for his hand under the table. He glanced at me for a moment and winked. I quietly laughed, listening to the plans for a wedding at Gatewater Land.
It worked for a bit. But it seemed we weren't scot free quite yet.
"Oh! I know," said Trucy cocking her head to the side in thought. "We can have two weddings! One for Daddy and Maya and one for Uncle Miles and Aunt Lyn! Then we could have an even bigger family!"
"Oo! Oo! Then Mr. Edgyworth and Ms. Lyn could have kids so we can play with them!"
"Nghhh! Kids?!"
It was Phoenix's turn to laugh now. "Oh wow, I wonder how stuck up your kids would be, Edgeworth."
"I'm sure they'd be much more sophisticated than what your barbed headed children would be like."
"At least mine would know how to have fun," Phoenix retorted.
"I have the resources for a game room, Wright. What would your fun be? Having them clean the toilets?"
"Sometimes, Daddy does have me help him clean those."
"Ha!"
"Trucy, hush. Daddy has to defeat Uncle Miles right now," Phoenix said sweating briefly. "I don't need to be rich to have fun! There are plenty free things to do."
"Wright, you sound so cheap right now."
Maya and I sighed, observing the back and forth squabbling over who's hypothetical children would be better. Trucy and Pearl had started talking about other things as the argument raged on.
"Should we order popcorn?" she asked exasperated.
"Huh. They might have that," I said. "We can get drinks. And maybe some other appetizers, too."
The spirit medium clapped her hands together. "Good idea! I was getting hungry."
I waved down a waiter with a menu and discussed what we wanted with Maya. We agreed on mini burgers, popcorn, chicken wings, and pretzel sticks. The waiter nodded and said they'd be back soon with the food and some water. About 20 minutes, the food arrived. Pearl and Trucy noticed the mini burgers and were squealing over how cute they were, before grabbing a couple to eat.
"Huh?" asked Phoenix breaking away from his argument with Miles looking at the tables overflowing with food. "When did we order all of this?"
"During your epic argument of proportions," I said, rolling my eyes.
Maya nodded in agreement. "We were getting hungry and tired just listening to it. So we figured we might as well grab food to go with the entertainment."
The men muttered under the breath at each other.
"And how much did you order in appetizers...?" asked Phoenix clearly afraid of the answer.
"I didn't catch the menu," grinned Maya. "What do you say, Lyn? How much?"
"Oh..." I cocked my head to the right. "...I think it would be about 100?"
"In appetizers?!" he squawked.
It was probably less, but screwing with him was amusing.
"My poor wallet..." he cried.
"Naw, it's okay," I grinned reaching into my pocket to pull out a card. "We can use Miles' credit card."
"A-again!? How did you get it this time?!" he tried to get it back from me, but I just shoved the card into the pocket on the far right side of me. He could only get it back if he wanted to look like a pervert in public.
Trucy giggled. "Uncle Miles! A good magician never reveals her secrets!"
I gave her a high five. "See? Trucy's a smart kid."
Miles sighed. "I'm going to have to chain it with a lock and key to my person to keep it away from you."
"Ah, so it seems money doesn't solve all problems does it, Edgeworth?" Phoenix asked with a smirk.
"...Do you want me to pay for this or not, Wright?" he impatiently tapped a finger on his arm.
"Gah...okay money does solve a lot of problems," Phoenix said sheepishly.
"I could pay too," I shrugged.
Phoenix shook his head adamantly. "No, I would never have you do that. Just leave it to mr. sports car over here."
"Yes, if you were going to insist anyway, why bother stealing my card again?"
"It was just for revenge," I said sticking my tongue out.
Pearl gasped, dropping her burger on her plate. "Ms. Lyn! What did Mr. Edgyworth do to you?!"
The girl began rolling up her sleeves, looking mad. Miles started to recoil. I figured I should play this up. "Oh, it was horrible! Miles made fun of my singing. He called it terrible. I was so upset...I started crying."
...crying tears of laughter. But that's besides the point.
"Wait a minute, that's not tru-"
In a flash, Pearl went under the table and right up to Miles. She then slapped him three times with the force of sumo wrestler. "Don't treat your princess like that!" she huffed before crawling back under the table to her spot.
I couldn't stop laughing, looking at the shock on his face and the tiny red hand prints on his face. "Wow, that looks worse than the last time I slapped you!"
He shot me a look, for he better not say it aloud with Pearl watching him like a hawk. It screamed, you're dead meat later. Even so, it was totally worth it. Maya chastised Pearl for the slaps, but it had no effect on her anger. Trucy was rather impressed with her strength and was asking if she'd want to take part in a magic show sometime.
The night went on in good cheer. Everyone happily ate and chatted away, until there was virtually nothing left, courtesy of Maya who has two stomachs. Like he promised, Miles picked up the tab, though this time he insisted on a favor from Phoenix. As to what it was, I didn't know, but Phoenix grateful he wasn't more broke obliged. Maya demanded I give her a call because she still had 200 questions to ask about the other universe and other finer topics. I promised I would soon.
And sadly, the night came to a close.
Phoenix, Maya, Pearl, and Trucy were all staying together while Miles and I went back home. I knew the night had to end, but what made me more sad was knowing that nights like this would be limited for me since I had to go back to my own world soon. The thought of it made me miserable on the inside. My real home felt distant on an emotional level at this point. I shouldn't have gotten so attached to everyone, but it was difficult since I had been here for a year.
But time was almost up...unless I wanted to face the consequences of losing myself. And it wasn't fair that I was pretty much hijacking someone else's body to be here either.
I guessed I'd better take it all in now since I had no idea how much longer it would last.
Evidence:
Prosecutor's badge: With this, I can prove I'm a prosecutor. Dunno why we don't wear them on our lapels like defense attorneys though.
Magatama: Magical sacred charm that should allow me to communicate with Mia.
Profiles:
Maya Fey: Age 20. Probably my best friend at this point.
Miles Edgeworth: Age 27. My...partner in crime in a sense.
Detective Gumshoe: Age 34. The guy who's saved my hide more times than I can count.
Judge: Age ?. Oldtimer judge. No one knows his real name.
Mia Fey: Deceased. My spirit guide who pops by occasionally to give advice.
Phoenix Wright: Age 27. Pretty awesome dude. We make fun of Miles together.
Klavier Gavin: Age 17. Rockstar and new prosecutor. I'm totally not a fan.
Kristoph Gavin: Age 26. Called the 'Coolest Defense Attorney in the West'. He makes me uneasy.