Professor Layton and the Rewound Repercussions –Part 6—

Clive sat awkwardly before the professor, once more separated by the glass partition. "H-hello."

"Good afternoon, Clive."

Clive covered his face with his sleeve. "Good afternoon."

"Embarrassed?" Layton chuckled. "It's good to know you're still capable of such feelings."

"Don't mock me, professor. I am no psychopath."

"I know." Layton smiled. "I believe, rather than the absence of emotion, you possess too much. Perhaps you've just been repress—"

"I'm not repressed."

"Did you know that pet rabbits will die if not shown enough affection?"

"Are you implying that I am like a rabbit?"

"Not at all."

Clive looked away, face pink. During the previous visitation, he had clung to the professor's jacket like a toddler, burying his face in Layton's chest and sobbing. This previous and undeniable loss of dignity now haunted him. "Don't toy with me."

"I'm not."

"You enjoy seeing me like this."

"I don't."

"You sadist."

"Not at all." The professor shook his head. "How shall I put it? I'm just happy to know that you're…well, human."

"Human?" Clive raised his eyebrows. "As opposed to what?"

"Inhuman, of course."

Clive grimaced. "And here I was under the impression that you understood my motives, my desire for justice. I have thoughts and feelings, too, professor. I am no machine."

"I know, Clive." The professor nodded. "You know, humans are the only creatures that blush."

"What has that to do with anything?" Clive narrowed his eyes as he spoke.

"It means we show embarrassment."

"I'm afraid I'm still missing your point, professor."

The professor laughed. "How can I explain this? Let's just say I've gained more motivation for the cause."

"What are you blathering on about?"

"Nothing, my boy. It's an old man's folly."

Clive scoffed. "Oh really?"

"Yes. Now, on to business, I suppose."

"Yes, please."

"Now, we've rescheduled the appeal for next Monday. Is that too soon for you?"

"There is no such thing as 'too soon' here, professor. There is only 'too late' and 'later'." He smirked. "Even my fellow crazies feel the same way."

"You are perfectly sane, Clive."

"Am I? It seems I've had even myself fooled."

"Don't lie to me. I can't help you if you won't be honest."

"I am honest, professor. Or can you not tell when I'm being genuine?"

"Oh, no. I can. It's not much of a puzzle with you, my boy. You're rather…expressive."

Clive cursed silently to himself. The professor was right.

"I'll get you out, Clive. But you're going to have to help me."

"At your service, professor." Clive bowed in his seat, smirking. "I am quite prepared to do whatever is necessary to go free."

"Good. Then we'll start with this paperwork…"