Author's note:
If you've watched BoA's "Who Are You" MV and/or heard the song, then you'd probably have a good idea of what I was trying to do with this chapter lol. I promise, it's a really cute video, so please go and watch it! :D
Review response:
Ms. Lenny Face - Haha! Great to know that you're reading and loving my work, thank you! I hope you'll continue to support me and this story :)
20 Kisses: Hero Worship
by Dark Interval
Seventh Kiss: Stranger
It all started when Phoenix got himself a new phone.
Not that his old phone was anything less than spectacular (so what if it was old-fashioned? As long as he could send messages and make calls, that was all that mattered, right?), but old faithful had gotten crushed from a recent perilous investigation and Trucy saw it as an excellent opportunity to convince him to get with the times. Also, it was supposed to be his phone, but his daughter and Athena had been fiddling with said device all morning and he feared he wouldn't be able to make heads or tails with it when it finally got back to him. He seriously hoped they didn't set his ringtone to one of those girly pop songs that were the latest craze these days. Even with his old phone, he hadn't been able to figure out how to change his ringtone since Maya set it to 'The Steel Samurai'.
"Here you go, boss!" Athena threw the TV phone at him and he frantically caught it before it hit the ground. "I've set it up for you! And I took the liberty of adding mine and Trucy's numbers into the contacts list. You can slowly fill up the rest yourself."
"Ok, thanks," he muttered.
"And I downloaded and registered you on a dating app, daddy!"
"You did what?!"
Trucy giggled and stuck out her tongue sheepishly. "Ehehehe… surprise?"
" Trucy! " Then he noticed Athena wasn't looking too innocent herself. "Athena!"
"But, boss– / But, daddy–"
"You're both grounded! Go to your rooms!"
"But I don't have a room!" Athena yelled. "I don't even live here!"
"Don't sass me, young lady!"
" Ooo! I shouldn't have let you talk me into this, 'Thena!" Trucy whined.
"Me?! It was your idea!"
"But you were the one who told me about that app!"
"And you were the one who said you got it all under control!"
" Kids! No fighting–"
"Traitor!"
"Yellow-girl!"
"Boss, will you defend me if I kill your daughter?"
" I WILL TURN THIS CAR AROUND RIGHT NOW!"
And that was how Apollo found the three of them bickering in the middle of the office on a Friday morning. He shut the door behind him and tossed his bag and jacket onto the sofa with a sigh. Seriously, could nothing surprise him anymore? He almost dreaded asking, but…
"What's going on?"
"Daddy's going to find me a new mommy!" Trucy cheered.
"Sweetie! Honestly!"
Apollo cocked an eyebrow in honest surprise. Well, this was new.
"Mr. Wright, you've been dating?" Then he realized something and practically exploded. "You've been slacking off while I was busy earning money for rent?!"
"Nope! But he will be," answered Athena with a victory pose. Phoenix didn't know which was worse: Athena unwittingly agreeing with Apollo's accusation, or her implying he'd be dating frequently enough to pass off as a standard career.
"And it's all thanks to this app right here," she continued excitedly as she snatched the phone from Phoenix's hands and opened said application.
"First, you register your number and profile onto the app and it'll automatically source and sort out users who live closest to you or share similar interests in descending order. And if you're feeling more adventurous, it also lets you explore and seek out profiles that interest you, which aren't necessarily compatible."
Phoenix grew increasingly peeved during Athena's explanation. Girls. It was like he didn't even exist –
"So, how does it work exactly?"
"Apollo, not you too?!"
But the three of them ignored him and he was left to simmer in silence.
"It's not that difficult, really," Athena explained to her fellow co-workers. "It's basically a social networking platform for you to chat up any user who tickles your fancy. It's even linked to certain dining sponsors for quick and easy bookings. Oh, look – she held up the phone to Phoenix's eye level – you already have a date, boss!"
"I WHAT?!"
Phoenix snatched the phone from Athena's fingers and true enough, he had a date, or to be more precise, a new chat window. The other party was more or less anonymous save their username and icon of a tea cup. That was the other thing about this dating app: each party's identity was completely confidential to add a little suspense to the whole blind date idea.
A quick scan through this stranger's profile revealed that they were exceptionally dignified, classy, with a wealthy background and exceptional reputation, not to mention an insane overachiever with the amount of awards and credentials tagged to their name. They were practicing law within the same vicinity as well, was even from the same grade school, and most importantly – at least to Phoenix – wasn't averse to children and/or his single-parent status. All these commonalities probably contributed to this stranger's place at the top of his list, as well as their high compatibility level. Phoenix didn't want to admit it, but whoever this person was, they actually sounded… pretty darn amazing.
'I've perused your profile and though some of your phrasings could use a fair bit of work, I must say I'm impressed by your impeccable record in court and am intrigued to hear more. Our similar professions and origins leave us much to discuss. Would you care to join me for a little tête-à-tête?' was what the message read. It was quickly followed by an invitation for a table for two at 'The White Lady', a boutique café that was just under three blocks away.
"Ooh, fancy! This one looks good! Will you go, daddy? Will you, will you?" Trucy gazed up at him with big, shining eyes as she jumped up and down and Phoenix didn't have the heart to say otherwise.
"Well, I…" he began, admittedly half-sold.
"I don't know, sir," interrupted Apollo with a wary frown. "This person sounds a little too good to be true. You shouldn't believe all you read online."
That was true.
"But why would they lie, especially when boss himself is a lawyer?" Athena countered. "It's not worth the risk of you ask me."
That was also true.
"You're just jealous, Polly, cuz daddy's got a date and you don't," Trucy teased, sticking out her tongue.
"I am not!"
"Are too!"
"Am not!"
"You so are!" Athena chimed in to which she promptly got smacked in the face with a cushion.
Phoenix cleared his throat to get their attention before they got too loud and the neighbors complained again.
"So… Uh… Hm," he stared at his phone screen, conflicted. "Should I…?"
"I think it's great, boss!"
"I still think it's pretty suspicious…"
"Well, I think," Trucy cut in, hugging Phoenix around the waist, "they sound wonderful and daddy deserves to be happy!"
And against his better judgement, Phoenix's heart melted from her sincerity. "Sweetie…"
"So, are you going, daddy?"
Phoenix's thumb hovered over the 'accept' icon. Well, he didn't see any harm in trying and he wasn't getting any younger. Plus, it would be a tad refreshing to get back into the whole dating scene; and Trucy really wanted a mother...
"Oh, what the heck."
He tapped 'accept'.
After a dozen outfit changes later, Phoenix finally settled on a white shirt with the collar undone, a navy-blue sweater, and a pair of skinny-fit khaki pants. He did his best to tame his spiky hair a touch, save that one annoying strand that kept falling forward; and to his horror, Athena even did his makeup, which wasn't so bad now that he thought about it – the subtle touches enhanced his cheekbones and brought out the glow of his eyes. Hm… maybe he'd start looking into this 'makeup' thing a little more. Although it did make him look effeminate, he'd gotten more interested stares from women along the streets in the past ten minutes than he had in a decade.
'White Lady… White Lady… Ah, here.' He stopped outside said cafe and peered through the glass doors tentatively. Damn, he had gone with the smart-casual look, but he still felt so out-of-place. The boutique cafe, though quaint, practically owned the entire building, which was done up to resemble a colonial hotel. Even the doors were those fancy revolving ones and if he listened hard enough, he could hear classical music playing from within.
'Definitely an heiress,' he mentally concluded. This arrangement practically screamed "High standards or No standard" and he started to feel a little faint. He wasn't sure his wallet could handle this much class and he hoped and prayed the date was on her.
Suddenly, he received a message.
'I wish you wouldn't tally. I'm here at my usual seat by the window. I'm wearing red.'
'Usual seat?!' Phoenix fought down his nerves and did his best to recall how a perfect gentleman should act. For once, his years of studying acting could finally be put to good use. Honestly, he hoped he just didn't end up insulting her good taste.
Stepping into the cafe, his eyes did a quick sweep of the place, specifically at all the window seats. Not a single patron there was alone or wearing anything red except…
Phoenix blanched. Oh no. Oh no, no, no.
This couldn't be happening to him. The image of a gorgeous, supermodel-type body, multi-billionaire heiress practicing law completely shattered, only to be replaced with a single, disappointing –
"Edgeworth?!"
Said man looked up from his phone. Their eyes met. For a moment, neither said a word – Phoenix unabashedly gaping like a fish out of water while Miles simply stared at him blankly. The latter had his arms folded, his fingers tapping impatiently as he regarded his old rival through his glasses with unimpressed countenance.
"Wright," he greeted with a nasty smirk. "It's been a while; though I must say, I never expected you to dine at a place like thi–" He saw the dating app opened on Phoenix's phone screen and nearly fell out of his seat. "IT CAN'T BE!"
"Sorry, Edgeworth, but you're the only one here wearing red," answered Phoenix with a nervous laugh.
Miles' left eye twitched and he fought down a sigh. That profile on never losing a single case; having a knack for turning things around; coming from the same grade school; excellent "persuasive" skills (bluffing would be more accurate)...
"I should've known."
Phoenix smiled at him hesitantly.
"Well, seeing as the app thinks we're extremely compatible, maybe… we could make this work? You know, between us?"
"As much as it pains me to say this, perhaps." With a nod of his head, Miles indicated at the seat opposite him with the reluctance of an office worker crawling to work on Monday. "Have a seat."
"Um… uh… ok," Phoenix stammered as he shuffled to sit across his old rival. Out of all things he expected Miles to say regarding their awkward situation, obliging definitely wasn't it, not even close. On the bright side, at least he now knew he wouldn't have to foot the bill.
The first few minutes of their "date" was spent in silence. While Phoenix struggled to keep any conversation topic going – How've you been? How are things as the new Chief Prosecutor? Is your office bigger? Is the pay good? Any new job openings? – Miles's eyes were desperately looking at everything else that wasn't Phoenix, quietly drinking his stupid tea; and said lawyer actually found himself growing increasingly annoyed with his so-called date. Wasn't Miles the one who wanted to go ahead with this? Then why the heck wasn't he very charming; romantic; busy sweeping him off his feet?
"How's your daughter, Wright?"
Edgeworth's question came so suddenly, it took Phoenix by surprise.
"Trucy? She's doing great; a genius as always," he replied with a proud grin. "Perhaps a little too smart. She's the one responsible for, well – he indicated at them – this."
"I see."
"She's been going on about wanting a 'mommy'," he continued quickly, not wanting the conversation to drop. "So, I decided to do this for her. She's a good kid and more than anything, I want her to be happy."
"I see."
Miles was losing interest fast. It was time to bring in the heat.
"How did you start using the app, Edgeworth? Are you looking for a mommy – er, I mean, partner too?"
Miles let out a long, painful sigh as he pinched the bridge of his nose in irritation.
"No, Detective Gumshoe set it up without my knowledge. Ever since he and Miss Byrde got married, he's been badgering me to settle down myself."
"And how has that been working out for you?" asked Phoenix.
"Honestly, Wright, you're my first date."
"Oh."
If he were Edgeworth, he figured he'd be mighty disappointed himself. But a strange compulsion possessed him and he decided to try his luck, at least to satisfy his curiosity and self-worth.
"Hey, Edgeworth… I know you didn't know it was me before, but now that you do, are you still interested?"
Miles stiffened. "In what?"
"Me. Are you interested in me?"
"... No."
Three psyche-locks appeared and Phoenix fell off his seat.
Miles frowned. "What?"
"N-Nothing!"
He knew he was blushing, so he quickly grabbed the menu and hid his face behind its needlessly tall pages. Woah… Edgeworth liked him? He nervously peered over the edge of the menu and realised his date and childhood friend was looking at him and not just looking at him, but admiring him. The critical gaze was gone and Miles' eyes carried something soft and pleasant. If Phoenix didn't know any better, he'd say they actually looked dreamy, but since this was Miles, he went with 'distracted'.
"You cleaned up, Wright," Miles observed with the barest quirk of his lips. It was a rare smile and in all his years of knowing the aloof man, this was the first time Phoenix actually saw him smiling. His cheeks turned pink and he waved his date off with an embarrassed laugh.
"Nah, it's the makeup–"
"No."
"Eh?"
Miles reached for the menu and lowered it to get a better look at Phoenix's face.
"You look good, Wright. You always have."
"Edgeworth…"
Phoenix felt his heart melt. Who would've thought Edgeworth could be capable of being sweet – to him no less! And seeing as their years of heated rivalry had already come to pass… Maybe this date, maybe they could really work out after all.
"So do you, Edgeworth," he replied, blushing. "I… I really like what you did with the glasses. It's… It's a good look."
"So I've been told."
Miles pulled back and resumed sipping his tea in an ostensibly good mood compared to earlier.
"Order whatever you want and don't worry about the price." A hint of kindness flashed through his eyes. "I'm the one who asked you out. Your company and this date, it's my pleasure."
Phoenix's eyes sparkled. Best. Date. Ever. He raised his hand and called the waiter over. He saw the most expensive item on the menu and he wanted it.
"Hi, I'd like to have the 'White Lady's Signature Steak', please!"
"And how would you like it, sir?" asked the waiter.
"Well done!"
"Objection!" Miles interrupted, thoroughly unimpressed. Their date had only just kicked off, but he heard enough.
"Everyone knows the best way to eat steak is medium rare. No one eats it well done. It's a disgrace to the pallet, and Wright, you're a disgrace to fine dining everywhere."
Phoenix bristled and had to resist smoldering his date to death with a napkin. What the hell? He was a paying (close enough) customer and he would eat his steak whatever damn way he pleased! What was Mr. Fancypants' problem?!
"Objection!" Phoenix slammed his hands onto the table, before whipping out a news article out of nowhere. "I have decisive evidence that states under-cooked food, such as steak, increases the risk of food poisoning!"
"Objection!" Miles slammed a hand on the table and pulled out a food review. "I have decisive evidence that contradicts your claim. According to this food review published by the institute of fine dinning, out of five stars, 'White Lady' is a five-star cafe that has never reported a single case of food poisoning till this date!"
As their arguing and table-banging grew more heated, the other patrons stopped to stare; the music ceased; even the poor waiter looked like he wanted to quit.
"Well, I have decisive evidence that will overturn your decisive evidence!"
"Then I have new decisive evidence that will overturn your decisive evidence!"
"Edgeworth, that doesn't even make sense!"
"Yes, it does!"
"Objection!"
"Objection!"
"Objection!"
Athena lounged across the couch with her mouth wide open, counting the cracks on the ceiling. She was now extremely positive people could die from boredom. On the other end of the couch, Trucy was doing the same thing. It was a slow afternoon at the 'Wright Anything Agency' – no clients, no Phoenix making them clean toilets, nothing.
So… bored…
"Hey, Apollo?"
"Yeah?" came the distracted drawl.
"How do you think boss' date is going?"
Apollo shrugged as he continued punching in numbers on his calculator. "Don't know, don't care."
Trucy sighed wistfully. "Well, I hope it's going great! Daddy's date sounds wonderful – like a princess!" She turned onto her stomach and faced him. "Hey, Polly, do you think they're in love already?"
"Love at first sight doesn't happen, Trucy," he replied grumpily.
"What?! But I think it does!" Athena countered with passion, her and Widget all fired up.
"Me too!" exclaimed Trucy.
"Humph! Apollo just doesn't have a single romantic bone in his body!"
"Maybe he needs to use the app too!"
"Hehe! Good idea! You grab his phone, I'll set it up!"
"Then Polly won't be so lonely anymore and he'd quit being such a sourpuss!"
"Hey, Truce, what if boss' date goes so well, they decide to get married?"
"Ooh! Hey, Polly, do you think daddy will bring home a mommy tonight?"
"Apollo –"
"Polly –"
"THAT'S IT!"
Apollo slammed his fists onto the desk and the girls jumped in fright.
"You want to know what I think? Fine! I think that if you two are bored enough to come up with a bunch of stupid theories about Mr. Wright's sad and nonexistent love life, you can handle the accounts on your own!"
Athena whimpered, "But I'm a defense lawyer…"
"Oh, would you look at that – so am I! "
"Polly, what's your problem?!" Trucy huffed, hands on her hips as she glared him down. "You've been acting weird since this morning."
"My problem?" Apollo echoed, "I can't say, because one's all sunshine-and-rainbows and one's too young to understand."
He turned to grab his bag and jacket.
"I'm taking the rest of the day off."
"But –"
"You can't –"
He left and slammed the door shut before either girl could so much as finish their sentence.
While descending the building stairway, Apollo paused midway as soon as his anger dissipated. Argh, he already regretted what he just did. It wasn't Athena or Trucy's fault – they meant well and cared for Phoenix just like he did. Just like he always secretly did. And Apollo knew that the only person to blame for his current frustration and bitterness, was himself. He had taken his mentor for granted, assumed Phoenix would always be hanging around and heavily dependent on him; too busy running the agency to bother about romantic relationships; and thanks to a stupid dating app, he had to live with the fear of losing his hero-turned-crush to a complete, undeserving stranger.
I need to stop the date right now.
He fished his phone out of his pocket and pulled out Phoenix's contact details. His thumb hovered over the call icon, hesitating. He could do this. Just one call. Just one excuse…
His hand shook; he couldn't do it. Just remembering how happy Phoenix had looked getting ready earlier, prettily made up and leaving the office, a skip in his step like a high school boy on his first date, weakened his resolve. Destroying that happiness was worse than giving his idol and long-time crush up to somebody else.
Apollo stared at his phone screen longingly, specifically at the handsome, smiling photo of Phoenix he used for the man's profile. Back then, Phoenix had turned his head at something Trucy said, an innocent expression on his face, and he secretly snapped a shot.
It was so frustrating. He thought he'd made his dependence on his mentor known during the Phantom's trial and Clay's death. Apparently, he was the only one who read too much into his own words and actions. Didn't Phoenix notice his feelings at all? Couldn't he hear his heart screaming every single day that he wanted him? That he'd do anything for him?
"Mr. Wright…"
His thumb trailed over the picture's smile and a sudden determination gripped him. Well then, if he had to fight for Phoenix's heart, then so be it. Apollo pocketed the phone; taking two steps at a time as he raced down the stairs and out across the street.
Phoenix rubbed his sore ass as he walked aimlessly down the corner of 'White Lady', a dark cloud of depression raining down on his previous good mood. Well, that was a complete bust. After being literally thrown out of the café (he didn't understand why Edgeworth didn't get the same treatment) – ashamed, miserable and dateless – he didn't feel particularly keen on returning to the office to report his failure to Trucy, so he took the long way home instead. However, he didn't get far in both his planned explanation and distance, before his phone buzzed. It was that darn dating app again.
'Ah, I see that you're already on a date. Is it too late for me to cut in?'
'Wow, another one?' Phoenix wondered to himself in amazement. The last time he was this popular was when the press hounded him non-stop after his disbarment.
Again, this new stranger also practiced law within the same vicinity, was supportive towards his single-parent status, but the similarities more or less ended there. They were a frequent traveler; lived abroad but decided to settle down here; was fluent in at least two different languages apart from their main one; composed music and lyrics in their free time; and loved long conversations into the night. In other words, a pure romantic and just what he needed to win Trucy's 100% approval. Also, a small, secret part of him liked long conversations into the night. He used to do that with Dahlia before he found out she simply left him on speaker and went to bed as soon as he started talking.
'By all means, cut in whenever you want,' he typed to which the stranger replied with a line of strange symbols that he suspected was their way of laughing in their language.
'Date not going so well?'
'Nice place, terrible guy.'
'I'm sorry to hear that, though that kind of works in my favor, ja?'
'You're pretty opportunistic.'
'Many have called me a prince, but I'm afraid my blade can be pretty sharp when I see something I want… Shall I come rescue you?'
That brought a smirk to Phoenix's lips as he frantically typed his response. He had forgotten the last time he felt so excited and incredibly taken by anyone.
'That depends how keen you are. Not to sound negative, but compared to you, I'm not exactly the most interesting person around.'
'Liebling, you have no idea.'
'Uh… that's not my name...'
'It's what you call 'darling' in your language.'
'Oh…'
Phoenix sent a flustered emoticon. The stranger laughed again and sent him a flying kiss emoticon in return. Phoenix found himself smiling; whoever this person was, he felt comfortable with them already. Definitely far more approachable compared to Edgeworth.
'I see you're near 'White Lady'. The bar I'm playing at is just at the end of the street – 'The Muses'. I'll be having my break in five minutes. Liebling, will I see you soon?'
Phoenix was too busy running to type a proper reply, so he sent a heart instead.
When he got to the bar, he was immediately blown away by the large crowd gathered inside. The humble establishment wasn't very big to begin with, but that was a lot of people on a Friday afternoon, even for a lunch crowd. The place was either very popular for their food and drinks, or judging by all the giggling and screaming girls, they were waiting for some big-shot celebrity to make their appearance. With some difficulty, he squeezed his way through the crowd, careful to keep his hands to himself. Honestly, he couldn't give two shits: he was getting a little hungry and was eager to meet his new date. Maybe she was one of the girls in the crowd… or one of the staff…
"Libeling."
He gasped at the sound of that sensual voice, felt the stranger's hot breath against his ear and large hands wrap around his waist from behind. The person pressed up against him and by both the tone of their voice and feel of their body, Phoenix knew it was a man, but strangely didn't find himself caring or feeling remotely disappointed. He wanted to turn around to see his date's face, but it was too crowded to move and he immediately felt vulnerable like being stuck in the train during rush hour. The man's hands traveled to the ends of his sweater, one pushing both the warm garment and undershirt up to cope a feel of his skin, while the other dipped teasingly past the waistband of his pants to stroke just above his groin. Phoenix squirmed in the man's hold, his face flushing a deep scarlet. W-What is he-?! Long, slender fingers tweaked his nipple and he bit on his lower lip to keep himself from moaning. This wasn't right. He could shout and put the guy on the spot; report him; but he realised he liked it and for that he felt ashamed.
"W-Wait… We shouldn't… All these people…"
"Don't worry, Liebling," his date whispered, licking along the shell of his ear, their hand moving further up his chest, caressing. "No one will look…"
Phoenix gasped and had to bite back another moan. He cursed himself for wearing tight pants.
"I… I thought we were… going… on a d-date?"
At the sound of his nervousness, the man chuckled and to Phoenix's relief, released him.
"Sorry, Liebling, but when I saw you, I simply couldn't resist," he breathed against his ear and Phoenix once more felt helpless under that erotic voice. "There's a private room on the second floor next to the stairs… I'll see you there."
The man slipped away and Phoenix moved quickly, shoving his way through the crowd to get to said location fast in hopes of catching a glimpse of his mysterious date's face. But it appeared the guy knew this place well and had already reached the room before he did. Phoenix stood nervously at the door, neatening up his attire. He heard the melodic chords of a guitar just beyond the wooden barrier and gulped.
Show time.
He stepped into the room, shut the door behind him…
"Guten Tag, Herr Wright."
… and nearly threw it back open to flee the place.
"P-Prosecutor Gavin?!" he wanted to yell, but it came out more of a pathetic squeak. "You're my date?!"
This was crazy: why the hell was the app giving him people he already knew in real life? And why were they all men?
Klavier flashed him a mysterious smile and patted the spot next to him on the sofa. "Please, have a seat. I promise I won't bite – his eyes flashed playfully –much."
And somehow, Phoenix found himself obeying despite the fact that Klavier had pretty much molested him in public but a few minutes ago. Then again, this wasn't exactly a normal day and he hadn't been making many good choices since this morning. Fortunately, Klavier was considerate enough to slide over some finger food and he felt relieved he could distract himself and his hunger by stuffing his face with some seriously spectacular truffle fries.
"From your reaction, I take it you didn't figure out it was me," said Klavier with a hint of amusement. "And I made sure to be extremely obvious too."
"Rwealry?" answered Phoenix with a mouthful of fries and Klavier didn't know whether to facepalm or admire how innocently adorable the famed defense attorney was outside work.
"Ja. I perform here sometimes during lunch break and it appears I've gotten myself quite the female fan base. But," he paused to tilt Phoenix's chin up so he could get a good look at those vibrant blue eyes he adored seeing so much in court videos, "this is the first time I've felt this way towards a man."
Phoenix blushed and swallowed his food. He could already hear the millions of hearts breaking and picture the flood of hate mail he'd receive if him and Klavier were to actually hit it off as a couple.
"Um… uh… But how did you know it was me?" he asked nervously.
"Your profile was pretty obvious, Herr Wright."
"S-So, you already knew before…"
"Korrekt."
He turned redder if that was even possible. Was it just him, or did it feel hotter all of a sudden? He didn't know if Klavier was actually being serious about him or if he was just looking for a quick fling, but whatever the case, he figured he needed to set the record straight about his own intentions.
"Prosecutor Gavin, you're an amazing guy and I know many girls who'd kill to be in my place right now, but I'm looking for a partner – one who will eventually settle down with me and be a good mother to Trucy. That's why I'm here."
"I see," the blonde chuckled, reclining against the sofa, "and all this time I thought you were already married… Well, that makes things much simpler."
Phoenix blinked slowly. "It does?"
"Of course it does… for me, that is."
And before Phoenix could even gasp, Klavier tackled him onto the sofa, grabbed his wrists, and pinned him beneath him. Straddling Phoenix at the waist, Klavier pressed his lower body against him and Phoenix stopped struggling immediately. In fact, the famed attorney appeared frightened, but at the same time, like an innocent child, inexplicably curious. He didn't know what was happening, but the little devil on his shoulder wanted to see where this was leading to.
Klavier leaned down to whisper in his ear, "Liebling, I want to do so many things to your body…"
"B-But, Trucy- Ah!"
Hecried out in surprise when he felt teeth and a pair of lips latch onto his neck, just over his pulse point. They sucked and they sucked, no doubt leaving a mark and against his better judgement, Phoenix found himself enjoying the pleasurable sensation, moaning low and wanton like a cat in heat.
"P-Prosecutor… Gavin…"
"Sorry, Herr Wright, but I'm no mommy," said Klavier as he pulled away to marvel at his handiwork. Dark purple – just the way he liked it. "You, however, can practice being one right now."
While holding Phoenix's wrists down with one hand, Klavier's other hand was free to wander all over the older male's beautifully toned body; grope and massage his tight ass; raise his thighs to poke and rub at his entrance through the material of his pants, signaling his intentions.
"Look at you… Your body's already so eager to be a mommy. It wants to be filled."
"N-Noooo..."
"No? Then why are you spreading your legs, Herr Wright?"
It was pure rapture watching Phoenix writhe and moan beneath him, his face flushed prettily from shame and the heat from his desire. The older male's reaction was virgin, divine, and Klavier felt like he was in heaven.
"But… Haa… Prosecutor… Gavin… Mm … I can't… ah ... be a mom…"
"Why not, Liebling?"
"C-Cuz - " Klavier stroked him through his pants and he gasped, shuddering. Talk about persistent.
"N-No… we shouldn't… we haven't even… d-dated…"
"This is a date, Herr Wright," came the blonde's sexy reply as he reached under Phoenix's shirt to pinch a pert nipple. "And you're dessert."
Phoenix tossed his head in a low, needy moan.
"B-But, we have nothing in common," he struggled to come up with an excuse, but Klavier wasn't having any of it as he pushed Phoenix's shirt past his chest to lavish attention on those sensitive pink buds that were already hard and erect.
"You play piano – lick – I play guitar – suck – and I believe that in time, we can make beautiful music together."
"P-Prosecutor Gavin…"
Klavier began to pull down the zipper of his pants and that immediately jolted the older male back to his senses. With a yell, Phoenix delivered a swift and merciless kick to the blonde's balls and sped out of the room and out of the bar before his conscience caught up with him and he started to feel guilty for what he did to his first and only admirer. Maybe if Klavier didn't hate him after all this, he'd send the guy a nice soft pillow to make the recovery process more comfortable.
"Please let it be a woman this time," Phoenix prayed as he flipped open his phone to read the latest message.
There wasn't much detail in this stranger's profile, apart from some information that they were of foreign origin and were only visiting the country for a while, as well as a claim that they supposedly loved and were wonderful with kids. Honestly, he was feeling pretty desperate and jaded by now and as long as they didn't have any intention to molest/rape/criticize/insult him, it was fine by him.
'You fool, how long do you plan on making a lady wait?'
Yeesh, what crawled up this person's ass and died? At first, he planned to just ignore their message and go home, but upon seeing how they had actually tried to contact him for the past half hour, he gave them the benefit of the doubt.
'Sorry, I was… compromised,' he typed and he certainly hoped his bad mood didn't show. 'I take it from your earlier messages you're keen on a date?'
'Foolish fool who relies on foolish assumptions that only a fool would foolishly believe.'
Oh great – as what Trucy would refer to from her manga – a tsundere. And why did this speech pattern look so naggingly familiar? Urgh, he was too tired to think.
'Sorry! It's just… Look, I had a rough day and I rather not talk about it and before you jump to conclusions, it's not you and I'm not making up excuses. So, I'd appreciate it if you leave me alone.'
'I… I see…'
Well, that was surprisingly easy. He didn't expect them to back off so quickly like that. Did he hurt their feelings? He certainly hoped they weren't feeling insecure about themselves. Now he felt bad for being honest.
'Hey,' he typed hesitantly, but with good intentions, 'I didn't mean to sound – well, mean. I'm sorry. If I made you cry, I'll make it up to you. That is, if you still want to meet?'
'You… you want to meet me? Y-you fool!'
Yup, definitely a tsundere. It was kind of cute in an odd way.
'Haha! I take it that's a 'yes'... wait, you are a girl, right?'
'How dare you, fool! I am a lady! Only a foolish fool such as the fool you are will foolishly make such a foolish mistake so foolishly!'
Yipes! Ok, ok, wrong question to ask. Now he just offended his new (and only) female date and he would rather repeatedly stick his foot in his mouth than mess this one up.
'So, it says you're good with kids… '
'F-Fool! Are y-you… foolishly doubting my claim?!'
'Ack! No! Please don't cry!'
'I'm n-not cr-crying!'
'Sorry, sorry, sorry! Do you like cake? Parfait? Cupcakes? There's a nice unicorn-themed cafe called – uh… 'Unicorn Cafe' and my daughter loves their pastries!'
He sent the cafe invite and waited patiently.
'Hah! A foolish name for such a foolish place! … I… I'd love to. I'll see you there.'
She accepted it and Phoenix hailed the first cab that came his way. Call it a hunch, but he had a feeling that if he was late, or in this case, arrived after his date reached said location, the consequences for his tardiness would be severe. Yet, despite his apprehension, he couldn't help but think this woman to be rather endearing. He was pretty good at reading between the lines and discounting her tough front and less than sugary expressions, he was at least 85% sure that she liked him. For some strange reason, she liked him; and his suspicions were confirmed when she sent him an angry and impatient text claiming that she had already arrived and demanded he hurry up.
Before the cab reached a complete stop, Phoenix threw the door open, tossed a bunch of notes at the poor driver and zipped towards the cafe entrance. He stood nervously at the door; fretted over his hair; checked his makeup, his breath…
'Ok, Phoenix. You can do this. She already likes you, so don't mess this up. Trucy will have a mother and all your troubles will be over. Mission accomplished.'
But as soon as he stuck his head into the café, he got whipped painfully in the face.
"Phoenix Wright!"
Good God. WHY?
"GET BACK HERE, PHOENIX WRIGHT!"
Running, running, running.
He burst out of the cafe the first chance he got and raced down the street like a madman with a whip at his heels, which was an entirely accurate description of his situation right now, especially when his date turned out to be one Franziska von Karma. Honestly, he had no bloody idea what made him miss all the signs. Now that he thought about it, he had to be both blind and horribly stupid to have not made the connection. And "good with kids" his ass! He was not letting a crazy woman with a whip near his daughter even if Franziska was technically the only viable candidate to fulfill the role as Mrs. Wright – Phoenix thought about all the whipping he'd have to bear for the rest of his life and shuddered. On second thought, he'd pass. Besides, considering how little Pearl had told her off and made her cry before, Phoenix seriously doubted that counted as stellar parenting. Franziska was more emotionally fragile than anyone he knew and between caring for Trucy and running the agency, he didn't have time to wait on the woman's every need.
Quickly ducking into an alley, he leaned against a brick wall and sighed in relief. Lost her. Now he absolutely dreaded checking his phone. The last time he looked at it, the app had still been open and she had somehow whipped him through the screen. He didn't know how, but she did.
"I want to go home…" he moaned to himself miserably. He was hungry and tired: tired of dating, tired of feeling disappointed, tired of trying to live up to Trucy's expectations and being a good father.
Just when Phoenix made up his mind to hail the first cab home, his phone buzzed again and in his rage, he nearly threw the thing against the wall. No more dates. He flipped open the device and fully intended to type his latest admirer just that, when the nature of the message surprised him to the effect that it actually calmed him down.
'Hi. Is this Mr. Phoenix Wright?'
One simple question and Phoenix found himself at a complete loss. No pickup lines, no flirting, no snarky insults; completely and absolutely normal. And he liked normal. Right now, normal was good.
'Um… I'm not sure you know how this dating thing works? We're not supposed to reveal our identities.'
'Oh, I know perfectly well how it works, and I don't intend to waste time beating around the bush. I'm sure you value honesty more than anyone. Also, don't misunderstand: I just want to talk.'
Phoenix paused, his gaze honing in on the stranger's last words. Seriously? No date? Just… talking? A small, appreciative smile graced his lips. Talking. Yeah. He could do that.
'Yes, I'm Wright. '
'Actually, I think that would make me right, don't you agree?'
It took a while, but when he got it, he face palmed and couldn't stop himself from chuckling. The stranger sent a sniggering emoticon and between his laughter, Phoenix sent a shocked one in reply.
'You're the only person who's successfully followed up on that one. I've been using that joke for years!'
'Well, I'm a fan of puns myself. They're a breeze.'
Smiling, Phoenix's fingers moved across the touchscreen at rapid speed, which was a feat in itself since he only started using his new phone today. The things one could accomplish with the right motivation.
'You know, I used to be an art major before I switched to law and I did this theater production on puns. Turns out it was just a play on words.'
'Imagine that. I myself wanted to be a banker at first, but I lost interest.'
'Ahaha! Not bad. Oh yeah, you should consider learning sign language by the way.'
'Why? Do all defense lawyers need to?'
'No, but I heard it could be handy.'
'Haha! I'd tell you a chemistry joke, but I'm afraid I wouldn't get a reaction.'
Oh my god, he needed to meet this person.
'You're a law student?'
He couldn't help but peruse this stranger's profile. Call him crazy, but he was really interested now even though this person only wanted to chat. He blamed their mutual sense of humor.
'Actually, I'm already defending in court. I've had some successful cases in the past year.'
'You're a defense lawyer? Small world.'
'And I've admired you from the beginning, so imagine my surprise when I found you here!'
'Eh, is my profile really that obvious?'
'Well, yes. But I'm not complaining.'
Phoenix sent a sheepish emoticon and the stranger laughed.
'Anyway, to pick up on what you asked, I'm still studying as I practise.'
'That's tough.'
'Kind of, yeah. But the law is always changing and I'm fighting to improve it. I'll defend anyone who needs someone to believe in them during their darkest times, and I'll never give up, so long as this attorney's badge remains in my possession.'
Phoenix's heart skipped a beat. What in the world was that? This strange, warm feeling in his chest… He'd never experienced anything like it before. This person's passion and his words – there was just something truly admirable and charming about them and as a defense attorney himself, he was more than willing to share his experiences and advice – anything to keep this conversation going and this person's full, undivided attention on him. They were so much alike in both personality and dreams, talking to this stranger felt like home.
Who are you?
Man or woman, Phoenix didn't care. He just knew they were incredibly attractive to him and he had to meet them, if not today then someday.
'You're amazing.'
He tapped 'send' before he could stop himself and immediately panicked. Crap, was that too forward? Would he scare them away? He was about to type a paragraph of excuses and explanations when the stranger's reply came.
'Thanks!'
Hmm... That ego though...
'My mentor's a great inspiration; but to be complemented by the Phoenix Wright? I'm flattered. You're amazing yourself, sir, and I mean more than just your reputation.'
'What do you mean?'
'I admire everything about you.'
And Phoenix blushed harder than he had all day.
'Can we meet?' He typed hastily, wholly smitten, his heart racing a marathon in his chest. He didn't know what possessed him to make such an impromptu arrangement, especially after his three failed dates, but this one was special. He didn't know if it was pure coincidence or chance, but this stranger appeared all of a sudden like a flash of light in a sea of darkness, and everything felt so right.
'Now?'
'Please.'
For a whole minute, he received no reply. The anticipation was killing him and if he didn't know the meaning of torture before, then he sure as hell did now. Again, he wondered if he had accidentally scared them away. When another minute passed in silence, Phoenix felt his heart sink. The one person he finally felt a connection with, and he blew it.
Just then, his phone beeped from an incoming text message and he reluctantly opened it. Seeing as it was almost 7 pm, it was probably Trucy wondering where he was and if he was coming home for dinner. But he was wrong. The number was unregistered and one that he didn't recognize.
'Sorry. Took me a while to get your number. It's easier to talk this way than through that app, yeah?'
Phoenix's eyes widened and he felt his heart race again. It's them.
He frantically typed his reply, 'How the heck did you get my number?!'
He didn't know which was creepier: this stranger's (possibly illegal) resources or the fact that he didn't mind at all. What could he say? It was mysterious and mysterious was sexy.
'You're a defense lawyer, Mr. Wright. I'll leave the investigating to you.'
Was that a challenge, or an artfully-concealed flirtation?
'Anyway, if you're serious about meeting me, I'm at 'Kitaki Kitchen'.'
'You mean that joint run by ex-gangsters?'
'That's the one.'
Now, he was starting to feel worried.
'Wait!'
'Yes?'
He hesitated for a bit.
'Who are you?'
There was a pause, and just when Phoenix thought they weren't going to grace him with an answer, they finally did.
'If I told you, you'd stop thinking about me.'
Anything he texted after that cryptic response was met with silence; they even ignored every one of his calls. Too impatient to wait for a cab and much too excited to meet his mysterious date, Phoenix ran all the way to 'Kitaki Kitchen' with nothing but his heart on his sleeve and wings on his feet.
The snazzy bistro was empty save a lone patron in their mid-twenties seated by the window. Soft jazz music weaved through the air, complementing the fine aroma of coffee that draped over the place like a soothing blanket. The ambiance was dim and romantic; blue-and-white light and cotton snow from last Christmas' decorations lined the counter and window panes. The place was stylish, tastefully done and homely with its minimal decor.
A pair of formal, white gloved hands raised a cup of coffee to their owner's lips. The man took a small sip before lowering it back onto the table; a finger absently tapping the side of his cup to the beat of the music. The young gentleman pulled back his sleeve to check his watch: 8.15 pm. His date was 45 minutes late.
"Yo! O.G! More jav'?"
"No thanks, I'm fine."
The young waiter with outrageously styled two-tone hair withdrew the coffee pot with a shrug. "Suit yerself." His eyes darted to the entrance. "Date still MIA?"
"Not for long," the man replied with a chuckle, glancing at his phone screen. "He's running over as we speak."
"In the cold?! Damn, O.G! Yer man's total cray – fer ya, that is." He nudged him and the gentleman choked on his drink.
"H-He's not 'my man'!" said the guy, a little too loudly only to lower his volume, hiding his embarrassment behind his cup of coffee. "... Not yet at least."
The waiter snickered, "That's why you're here, ain't ya? Gonna tie the knot! Don't go makin' mistakes like I did with my fallen angel, ya hear? Or me'n my boys gonna come knock, knock, knock some sense into ya."
"Stop talking nonsense – who said anything about getting married?" He grumbled, willing away his embarrassment even though a small part of him couldn't help but entertain that thought. Unfortunately, that only caused him to blush. "And don't worry; he may be a handful at times, but he's nothing like that."
"Huh, good luck then, O.G. I'm rootin' fer ya!" He tipped his cap with a cheeky grin. "Oh and some advice for ya – be cool. Chicks dig that sorta thing."
"Um… Thanks? But, he's a guy –"
"Whatever, same thing," he muttered with a nonchalant wave of his hand. "Anyways, I'm headed out back fer a quick puff. Holler when ya need me, k?"
The waiter turned and headed towards the kitchen.
"Hey, Wocky!"
Said man paused and the young gentleman flashed him a grateful smile.
"I know you're supposed to be closed today, so thanks for the last minute favor. I really appreciate it."
"Heh. No sweat, G. I gotcha covered." And with a parting wink, he disappeared into the kitchen.
Seconds ticked by; a whole three minutes passed; and just as the stranger was about to raise the cup to his lips again, the door to the bistro slammed open with such force, it struck the wall and broke the innocent little entrance bell in two. Phoenix stumbled in and nearly tripped over his own feet in his haste. Just around the corner was the main area, so he quickly used the opportunity to straighten up his clothes and neaten his hair in the walkway. Fudge , he knew he should've taken a cab – that annoying, stray strand of hair was back to torment him. His date meanwhile, was barely five steps away and he already felt nervous enough to turn around and hightail out of the place. He didn't know why, nor did he know what to expect, but he really didn't want to make himself look like a complete turd in front of this stranger in particular.
As the stranger predicted, throughout his whole run here, Phoenix couldn't stop thinking about them. After all, it wasn't everyday you fell in love by exchanging puns. Out of all things, he never thought he'd end up falling for the funny type.
Deep breaths, Phoenix. You can do this.
He turned out of the walkway and the sight immediately took his breath away.
There, by the window and the bistro's only occupant, sat a lone gentleman – dark, aloof and incredibly mysterious, casually sipping his coffee as he stared out at nothing in particular. As if sensing he was being watched, the brunette placed his drink down and turned his gaze to meet Phoenix's, his own eyes obscured by a pair of slim and stylish shades. It seemed Phoenix wasn't the only one lost for words: the gentleman's mouth hung open in the slightest show of surprise and even though he couldn't see his eyes, Phoenix knew the guy was staring at him just as unabashedly transfixed as he was. As corny as it sounded, it was like a scene in typical romance drama: love at first sight; and as if in a trance, the man slowly rose to his feet, never once taking his admiring gaze off Phoenix and that was when the latter was able to get a good look at his attire.
The brunette stood just half a head shorter than him; lean and broad shouldered; and from what he could already see, had jaw-droppingly handsome features. Michael Angelo couldn't have chiseled a better specimen – the man was gorgeous, suave, dignified; and would have easily put Klavier Gavin to shame. The young man looked sharp in his well-tailored dark grey suit complete with a white-and-navy striped tie; his attorney badge was pinned at his lapel; and formal white gloves adorned his hands. His hair was neatly gelled back save his ends which were spiked stylishly, and his bangs were set purposefully over his forehead between his eyes, making him look cool, smart and incredibly dapper. Phoenix was currently having an inner battle against himself: he couldn't decide if he wanted his date to remove his shades so he could see his eyes, or keep them on because he looked sexy as hell like he had just walked right out of a wet dream.
Damn, he's hot.
The man's mouth was moving, but Phoenix wasn't really paying attention. All he knew was that for this man , he'd gladly be Trucy's mommy anytime. Fuck being straight; he'd bend over backwards right now. His inner self was practically squealing with pink sparkly hearts and roses popping up all around him.
"...to meet you, sir. Are you-"
"Yes, I'm single," he blurted out with a dreamy look on his face. Why was the guy laughing? Never mind; it sounded sexy just like his voice and like butter, Phoenix felt himself melt.
"I take it I've made quite an impression on you," said the young gentleman with a smirk, "I'm glad; and honored, Mr. Wright."
He stepped out and to Phoenix's surprise, pulled up a chair. "Please, sit."
Holy crap, did he just pull up my chair?
Phoenix, upon flashing him a shy yet grateful smile, sat down and blushed as soon as his date helped push the chair back in before rounding the table and returning to his own seat. Good manners, attentive and handsome. He felt his heart race and stomach do nervous flips. Hopefully the brunette wouldn't take his silence as indication for disinterest.
"Y-You can call me Ph-Phoenix... o-or N-Nick."
Goddammit, he was stammering so bad, you would think they were at the Borscht Bowl Club or something. A second later and he wondered if that little introduction made him sound too easy and painfully desperate.
"I quite prefer 'Mr. Wright', actually," came the curt reply. "This is our first meeting after all; and you're my senior. It's only proper."
"R-Right."
'So much for not embarrassing myself...'
Oblivious to the senior attorney's turmoil, the stranger continued to stir his coffee, a playful smirk tugging at his lips. "So, you wanted to meet me?"
"Uh… Y-yeah…" came the nervous reply.
"Might I ask why?"
Phoenix swallowed and avoided his stare. He couldn't help but feel a little self-conscious and disappointed: was he the only one who saw their meeting as a date? If so, had he stupidly rushed into things? This stranger had only wanted to talk after all and he suddenly felt bad for his impulsive actions.
"I… I wanted to meet you. See who you were with my own two eyes." Hear your voice with my own two ears.
"Is that all?" said the young man with a hint of disapproval and Phoenix immediately felt like their ages just got swapped and he was the naughty child being berated by a parent.
"I'm sorry," he answered guiltily with his head bowed, "if I troubled you. That is, if you rushed from work or something important, I'm really sorry."
"Well, that's too bad," interrupted the stranger. However, the frown on his face disappeared and he leaned forward, flashing Phoenix a 100-watt grin. "Because I was hoping it was an invitation."
His heart skipped a beat. "For?"
"For a date."
Phoenix turned so red, he had to grab a napkin to shield his face. The man laughed again and he swore if he turned any redder, he'd pass out from the amount of blood rushing to his head; but at least he'd go happy.
"Or were you hoping I was a girl?" continued the stranger, his voice gentle and Phoenix sensed a little sadness in it. He wondered why.
"You're a single-parent, aren't you? After that whole Gramayre case."
Phoenix stared at him in shock. "You know about Trucy?"
"Mr. Wright, everyone knows about that incident. Well – every attorney of law that is," said the man with a wry smirk, showing Phoenix his phone screen. "Even your profile's specially tailored for a life partner. Not to be rude, but it comes across as rather unprofessional and desperate."
Phoenix let out an unglamorous snort of contempt.
"Phfft! Desperate? Tell that to my previous dates – I've been shaking them off all day and one's still combing the streets for my head!" He paused with a sigh, "But I shouldn't be complaining; after all, my daughter deserves the mother of her dreams and I want her to be happy."
"You only did this for Trucy?"
"Yeah."
Suddenly, his date placed a hand over his and Phoenix felt his warmth through his glove. The man gave it a comforting squeeze and Phoenix automatically laced their fingers together. It was strange: he didn't know why or what made him do something so innocently intimate with a man he'd just met, but the brunette's presence was reassuring – kind, approachable and familiar like home – and he welcomed it with an open heart. He kept staring at their linked fingers with an inexplicable longing.
"But are you happy?" asked his date.
It was a straight-forward question, but one that left Phoenix silent for a whole minute. However, after it seemed he had finally processed the events of today, he started to shake and the brunette held onto his hand tighter.
"No… I'm not," he realised, only to wonder why on earth he was confiding in a complete stranger. "I'm not," he repeated; but when the stranger made a move to pull his hand away, Phoenix quickly held on and tugged it back towards him. "But… I am now."
The implication was obvious. He averted his eyes shyly, the natural blush on his cheeks pinker and sweeter than his makeup and the young gentleman felt himself fall hard and fast.
"Can I kiss you, sir?" He heard his date ask, husky and sensual and Phoenix closed his eyes, mumbling a soft and embarrassed "Un" in consent like a teenage girl on her first date. He felt the stranger lean closer towards him and he shuddered from the excitement. The man's lips were but an inch from his; he felt hot breath tease his bottom lip, a silent promise for more to come, and was suddenly hungry for his first kiss in 14 years.
"Who are you?" he heard himself whisper before he could stop himself.
The man chuckled at his innocence. "You still don't get it, do you?"
Phoenix's eyes flew open when he felt his date pull away and was just about to demand an explanation (and his kiss) when the handsome brunette removed his shades. It took a while for Phoenix's confused brain to connect the dots, but when it finally did, when a pair of adoring brown eyes met his, he screamed and jumped out of his seat. No way! He looked so different; acted so different… Sure, that ego was there, but… It couldn't be him!
"A-APOLLO?! You're my date?!"
When he realised the implication of that however, his hands flew to his face to hide his mortification. Strange little noises emitted from his throat. He was hot for his protégé. Oh the cruel irony. He blamed the suit and amazing hair.
"Is there a problem, sir?"
Phoenix peeked at him between his fingers and Apollo grabbed his hands to pull them away from his face. He held onto them, laced their fingers together like how Phoenix had done so but a moment ago, and watched as his mentor turned pink from the affectionate gesture. Phoenix didn't push him away or shriek in disgust and he considered it a good thing.
Meanwhile, Phoenix's mind was in complete disarray. No wonder he felt so comfortable with this guy – that explained the puns and cold jokes; but since when did Apollo like him that way ? He had always thought the kid to be purely asexual (his lack of romantic interest towards anyone spoke for itself) or at the very least, straight. Then again, Apollo acted so differently outside work, Phoenix began to doubt his knowledge of his own protégé. Who knew the kid could be quite the charmer? After everything that happened today, he realised he wanted Apollo's eyes on him always. If he'd known this side to his apprentice and if Apollo turned out to like someone else, he conceded he'd actually be pretty jealous.
"A-Are you trying to hit on me?" he stuttered and inwardly groaned because that sounded a lot more authoritative in his head.
"And it took you this long to get it?"
"W-What? How am I supposed to know how it works? I haven't dated in 14 years!" Phoenix snapped. "Well – ok, Dahlia didn't exactly count as a girlfriend and I pretty much didn't have to do anything to woo her or whatever. And we never exactly went out together apart from school. And I was always falling sick. And she always went out with other guys. Actually, come to to think of it, I never had a proper date. You'd be the first, which isn't the worst I –"
Phoenix stopped talking when Apollo placed a finger on his lips. The latter sighed and shook his head.
"Mr. Wright, you're killing the moment."
"Sorry."
Despite his irritation, Apollo's eyes were laughing. He removed his finger from Phoenix's lips and his arms found their way around his waist. Apollo's voice dipped with desire and that, along with his suave aura and devilishly good looks, made Phoenix's knees week. Where had that hot-blooded, slightly dorky and easily embarrassed kid gone? And who was this cool and mysterious gentleman in his place? He was suddenly overcome with the realization that Apollo was growing up, perhaps a lot faster than he did when he was the kid's age, though that wasn't a bad thing –
A hand dipped down to playfully cope a feel of his ass and he blushed.
Definitely not a bad thing.
"Now then, where were we?"
Apollo started to lean in for his kiss and panicking, Phoenix placed his hands on the brunette's shoulders and pushed him away.
"W-Wait!"
"What now?" the younger one grumbled.
"Let… Let me do it."
Phoenix forced down his blush and throwing all inhibitions to the wind, grabbed his date's shoulders once more and with a determined glint in his eyes, pulled him in for a kiss, his lips claiming Apollo's shyly in his inexperience. He was so nervous he actually shook a bit. He'd never kissed a man before – in fact, he'd never kissed anyone except that one accidental peck he'd given Dahlia – and it felt… warm and pleasurable, with little sparks upon contact. He realised he liked kissing Apollo and thought he could get used to it, maybe even addicted.
And then, just when he started using his tongue, he felt something wet and warm drip onto his face.
"EH? Apollo, your nose is bleeding! Apollo! "
Apollo held open the building's entrance door and Phoenix placed a grateful peck on his lips before stepping through. They ascended the stairs and continued down the hallway, shoulders bumping lightly and affectionately every now and then as they walked. It was Phoenix who broke the comfortable silence as he shot a tentative glance at his handsome young date beside him.
"Um... Apollo?"
"Yeah?" mumbled said man, nostrils stuffed with tissue paper.
He lowered his gaze, overcome by a sudden shyness. "You look amazing tonight, and your hair looks really good too. You should style it like this more."
"Really?" Apollo removed the tissue and shot his boss a wide grin. "I'll keep that in mind, sir!"
"B-But only for me!" Phoenix cut in, blushing himself as he fumbled over his words.
Apollo laughed and squeezed his hand tighter. Was that a hint of possessiveness he heard? Phoenix looked away with a pout and Apollo's gaze turned tender. Mr. Wright really is cute. He realised he could get used to his new boyfriend's jealousy if it was about him, like it even.
"Alright, only for you, sir."
They stood silently outside the 'Wright Anything Agency', Apollo taking a step back so Phoenix could insert the key into the lock and push the door open. It was late, specifically half-past 11, and after a wonderful dinner and movie date (minus the fact they nearly got thrown out of the cinema because Apollo was louder than the movie), they wanted nothing more than to simply crash for the night.
"Mm… Daddy?" Trucy emerged from her bedroom in her pajamas, rubbing her eyes sleepily. Then, as if remembering the events of this morning, quickly perked up. "You're back late – did you have fun? Did you bring me a mommy?"
"Sorry, sweetie. Maybe next time," said Phoenix with a kind smile, patting her on the head. "I did bring home Apollo though. He's staying tonight."
"Oh, ok."
Well, that was disappointing, but nothing new. Apollo often pulled all-nighters on cases and ended up crashing on the couch, but she couldn't shake off this nagging feeling that tonight was different somehow. New hair and new suit aside, Apollo seemed… different. Like he radiated this cool and confident aura that she'd never seen before. Also, he didn't settle on the couch like he always did and instead, followed her daddy into his room, her daddy himself tugging him in albeit too eagerly.
"Haha! Why so shy, A-Pol-Lo?" said Phoenix with a teasing leer.
"M-Mr. Wright, hold on–"
"Nope!"
With a final tug, Apollo sailed into the bedroom with a laughing Phoenix in tow. The door swung close, but the lock failed to catch, leaving a slim gap between door and wall. Curious, Trucy gave it a few minutes before sneaking after them and peered through the crack just in time to see Apollo kiss her daddy as they sank onto the mattress, the brunette's hands roaming all over as he crawled on top of Phoenix.
Her eyes widened and a hand flew to her mouth. So that explained why Polly was so jealous before – he liked her daddy! But didn't her daddy go on all those dates today? Wasn't he supposed to give her the mommy she always wanted? She didn't understand and it hurt.
Daddy...
She saw Apollo whisper something into her daddy's ear and heard him giggle as he turned over to nuzzle Apollo's cheek affectionately. The laughter in his eyes and the warm smile on his face – she realised she'd never seen her daddy so in love before. He seemed younger, radiant, happier than he'd ever been; and the way Apollo looked at him too with that smoldering gaze… He was looking at her daddy like how every girl wanted to be looked at. Like he was the one. Like he was his world. And slowly, she began to understand.
Through the crack in the door, Trucy watched her daddy kiss Apollo again, the younger one deepening the kiss as he grabbed the blanket to pull it over their heads, and blushed from the sounds they were making. Oops! Better give them some privacy. She backed away, closed the door silently and returned to her room with a smile on her face and a skip in her step.
Well, when it came down to it, as far as she was concerned, her daddy chose well. Sure, Apollo wasn't prince charming and he could use some work keeping his volume down indoors, but he was reliable, brave, devoted, dependable and had a lot of heart. He was the only one who could keep her daddy in check and she trusted him. Besides, for all the hardship he had been through and sacrifices he made for her over the years, her daddy deserved the best and for his happiness, she supposed she didn't mind having two daddies.
'Now where did Athena put that wedding contact... Aha!'
After rummaging through the darkness of her bedroom, she flipped open her laptop, typed in the link from the memo, and scrolled through the website. Hmm... she wondered how her daddy would look like in a wedding dress.
Author's note:
Oh no! Trucy is at it again haha! But that's a story for another time ;)
Yes, I went fluffy again with a smidgen of humor because this is Ace Attorney after all. And for those who've been waiting for it, yes, I finally threw in Edgeworth to give you a little MitsuNaru treat. Besides, their rivalry was too good to pass up in this context lol. Franziska also made a little guest appearance because I thought Phoenix/Franziska is quite cute too.
For Apollo's look, I was largely inspired by SK's concept of "Prosecutor Justice": http**:**/**i**.**imgur**.**com**/**gRBA2hR**.**gif (isn't he dreamy? *sigh*) Just remove the asterix!
I think Apollo can be cool for his boss if he wanted to... or at least if he tried really, really hard lol. Pressure definitely helps too. I would think anyone would up their game if they think they were going to lose their hero/idol/long-time crush to somebody else. Though I made sure he reverted to his fumbling ways because that's the Apollo we all know and love.