Chapter Text
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January 22, 2029
4:05 P.M.
Wright Anything Agency
“Hold it, you want to do what right now?” Phoenix confusably asked him as he looked up from his paperwork. Normally whenever Miles came, Phoenix was slacking on the job, but today that wasn’t the case. Perhaps that’s a sign that things aren’t going to be ok. Everything was planned and packed with a small bag Miles had to carry around. Inside were the contents he was going to need as a final farewell to his best friend.
“I want to… I want to go on a walk with you… through the park, i-if you don’t mind.” Miles awkwardly asked, hoping to at least get this step right. Please… I owe you a lot, I know, but at least let me grant you this little wal-
“I’d love to go do that with you Edgeworth, but right now I’m really busy with this paperwork, and don’t want to procrastinate on it anymore. Besides, it is freezing outside! I wouldn’t want to catch a cold, and I especially wouldn’t want you to catch one, Mr. Workaholic.” Phoenix replied to his question, which definitely did not help his confidence.
I’ve been rejected already, and I haven’t even asked the question yet. I knew this was a bad idea. I knew this would never--
CRACK! WHOOSH!
“AAAAA! What was that!?” Phoenix asked, holding his arm from where a very familiar whip had hit him.
“Nick, go take a break with Mr. Edgeworth! You’ve been stinking up this room all day and deserve a break! Besides, he asked nicely!” Ms. Maya Fey walked into the room, hand on her hip while the other wielded a very familiar and terrifying whip.
“Maya, first off, when did you get here? Secondly, why do you have a whip and who taught you how to use one? Thirdly, I need to YEOOWWWW!”
“Enough! Phoenix Wright, go take your break with my younger brother right now. My Bruder asked nicely and so did Maya Fey, and I advise you go lest you want to work with a whip over your head the entire time. It’s your choice.” Franziska scolded him as she took back her whip from Maya. She called back her whip before unleashing another blow to Phoenix.
WHOOOSH!
“Alright! Alright! I’ll go take a walk with Edgeworth!” Phoenix frantically announced getting out of his chair, hands in front to stop from any oncoming whip attacks. “Let me go grab some winter garb from up front before we go. I’ll be right back” Phoenix left the room leaving Miles with the girls who were holding hands like it was the easiest thing in the world.
“I… Thank you. You don’t think he’s going to make a run for it right now?”
“It’s alright Mr. Edgeworth, we are both proud of you. Also, Nick can’t run to save his life. He’s an old man now! He’d hurt his back in the process. Now just… tell him everything and he’ll understand. We promise.” Maya kindly told him, giving him what looked to be a genuine smile.
“Kleiner Bruder, don’t let the past eat at you and affect your future. Papa was wrong, and those other fools didn’t deserve you in the first place. They are lucky I wasn’t around when you told them what you did. Ich liebe dich, kleiner Bruder. Now go, after that Defense Attorney! I expect a big smile when you return.” Franziska reassured him, smiling and crossing her arms in confidence. The two stood there and watched Miles and Phoenix leave, all bundled up to handle the weather. Once they were sure they were gone, they started their usual chatter.
“So… You really think he’ll be okay? Because I know Nick won’t say anything towards him in fear of losing what they have, but I can’t help but worry for the two...”
“They are fools who are blind to each other. It’s astonishing how they aren’t married when literally the media knows what's up. Utterly foolish.”
“I assume you are referring to that one image that some popular artist drew of the two holding hands? It was pretty, but not as amazing as the molars one.”
“I agree with you there, dear. They have literal supporters online who wish to see the two at any moment, but they still doubt each other. I know my younger brother especially doubts himself on the matter, which is why we are here to help.”
“Really? I thought we were here to surprise Trucy when she got back after her show.”
“That too is important, however, I’m sure you noticed the way my brother nearly gave up just at Phoenix Wright saying no to his proposal?”
Maya’s mouth dropped at the realization, now understanding what her partner was thinking about.
“...Don’t tell me he’s…!”
“Indeed, and knowing him, this won’t be a pretty confession like in the movies you forced me to watch. Despite that, I know Phoenix Wright will be there. They always have been, and he is a persistent stubborn man. Perfect fit for my brother.”
“... He’s really doing this to…”
Franziska hesitantly gave the clear answer, softly explaining to Maya,
“... Punish himself, I believe so… yes. I… I hope he’ll be okay by the end of this.”
Franziska leaned against Maya, with fear over her Brother’s wellbeing twisting her inside. Her partner thankfully was there to rub soothing pats on her head.
“They’ll be ok. If you could confess to me about your insecurities and doubts, your brother can too.” Maya smiled as she remembered the memory of Franziska’s confession, how the normally stern Prosecutor opened up to her and wanted to be together despite their families beliefs. They had both been hurt, in more ways than one, but they still were able to be there for each other. And the two could confidently say they were happy with each other.
‘If Nick can survive everything he’s been through, and Mr. Edgeworth can still live despite everything the world throws at him, what’s one simple confession going to do to the both of them?’ Maya thought to herself while still comforting her partner.
“I pray so… I want him to be happy, Maya Fey…”
“They’ll be happy, I swear it on Mia’s legacy. Now come on, let’s give Trucy a grand surprise when she gets home.” Maya told Franziska lovingly, giving her a quick peck on the cheek before dragging her back to the main lobby of the Wright Anything Agency.
‘Miles, I hope this time you can find peace with yourself.’ Franziska thought to herself before following Maya Fey with decorating.
---
January 22, 2029
4:35 P.M.
Park
Miles walked beside Phoenix the entire time, taking in every moment of the man’s presence. Since this was going to be his last time around the man, he wanted to spend every moment with him. Remember every little thing he said or did. Sure, he was freezing in the cold since it was winter, but he ignored it. Miles watched Phoenix constantly adjust his scarf, as if he was uncomfortable just going on a walk with him. How his hands stayed glued inside his pockets, seemingly fidgeting with something inside. Miles saw how he looked everywhere else but him, as if he didn’t want him to be there.
I want to be here with you, but you seem to not want me. Am I that bad of a friend?
“Miles, is there a particular reason you wanted to go on this freezing cold walk with me today?” Phoenix asked casually, still not looking at him once. Miles felt his arms shake, and he couldn’t tell if it was because he was cold or if he was nervous. Probably both at this point.
“I… I have something I wanted to discuss later, but right now I just… wanted to spend some time with you. I apologize if you didn’t want this… You can head back if you wan- want.” His voice trailed off at the end, becoming small. Coward, giving him the option to go back just to escape the inevitable. Always running away, Miles Edgeworth.
“Oh, I see. Also, one second Miles…” Phoenix told him before stopping on the path they were walking on. Carefully, he removed the vibrant blue scarf he had on. Slowly, he gently wrapped it around Miles, being careful not to touch him in the slightest.
“There we go! You looked a little chilly there, so hopefully this helps!” Phoenix smiled at him before continuing down the path. Miles stood there, letting the warmth of the scarf envelope his face. The smell it gave off was of hot cocoa, and certain areas were warm where Phoenix had it against his skin. The simple gesture made his heart ache more that this was what he was going to lose.
Miles’ feet started moving on their own as he caught up to Phoenix, and the two fell into a comfortable silence. Neither men knew what to say or do. Sure it was cold and winter, but there was no snow comparing they lived in Japanifornia. Nobody was outside due to the weather being frigid, and the sun was setting so most people were heading out to dinner at this time. At this moment, it really was just… two men walking through a park.
“Wright… How is… Trucy doing?”
“Trucy? Oh! She had a big show tonight and won’t be home till late at night sadly. Although she has to take a detour to the Agency for something before she gets home. Her show supposedly had some big twist in it where a couple got together, but other than that it was her usual flare. I know she’ll be fine, especially since she got Athena to help her out this time along with Pearls. Those three can do anything.” Phoenix fell easy into conversation after that. As they walked, he described the show to Miles with such fondness, with such care… It made his heart swell. They finally fell into an ebb and flow, as Phoenix described his current paperwork and Miles described how his co-workers were doing.
“Athena nearly spilled coffee over my phone the other day while running away from Trucy.”
“Prosecutor Blackquill sent Taka to investigate up in the mountains and that led to finding the real culprit.”
“Apollo called me the other night from the Kingdom to tell me about how Klavier had to prosecute him on a case after he went to go and visit him. Apparently that brought some old memories, and afterwards they had a lovely dinner in the mountains.”
“Oh? Is that what happened? Klavier just told me he had a ‘jam session with herr-forehead’ and proceeded not to clarify. Frankly, I was concerned they were making jellies out there.”
“That sounds like Klavier. Apparently the two are going to go sky-diving together after Apollo lost a bet.”
“...I’ll have to send my condolences. That is truly an awful thing to hear. As one who… Doesn’t enjoy heights or airplanes, I truly feel bad for him.”
Phoenix chuckled. “Heh, the heights would be the worst part, as you have to look down and face the Eart-”
Miles nearly placed a hand over his mouth, but resisted. “Stopping you right there, Wright. I don’t need that image in my head.”
The two went back to silent walking for a minute, before Phoenix finally spoke again.
“Hey, you know, you were pretty tense earlier when we first started walking. I figured it was because of the cold, but now you aren’t. So, I just want to know… Is something the matter? Is there anything you wish to tell me?” Miles stopped dead in his tracks as he tried to consider the options.
Is now the best time to do this? Am I ready to say goodbye when we were just having a lovely conversation a moment ago? If I don’t say anything now, he’ll start suspecting more and more until he rips it out of me anyways. Miles, you wanted this, you better do this now…!
When Miles was about to start talking, Phoenix was looking at him concerningly, going as far as placing a hand in front of him to hold. God bless this incredible man.
“Hey, something is bothering you, isn’t it?” Miles instinctively tensed up as Phoenix started watching every single one of his body movements, every single gesture or twitch he did. So much for that lovely conversation we had a few moments ago.
“Here, let’s keep walking till we find a bench, in case you need to sit down, alright?” Phoenix offered, removing his hand and beginning to walk ahead of Miles. Closely did he watch as Phoenix looked up and down (for some odd reason) for a bench. It was endearing how much he cared for Miles as a friend, going so far as to look for a bench before they started. Miles followed behind him, hoping it’d take them a long time to find a bench to avoid the upcoming conversation.
Moments ago everything was perfect. They were relaxed and casually conversing with one another. No feelings got in the way, no bad memories, or rude things. Just two friends walking and talking. I really am about to screw this up.
“There’s a bench over here, Miles!” Phoenix called out to him, dramatically pointing to it like he was in a courtroom. That may be the last time I get to see him point.
Miles walked slowly towards where Phoenix and the bench were, not ready to break his heart. Phoenix meanwhile was smiling and swinging his legs as he sat on the bench. He’s so happy, that he is. Why do I have to ruin this sight? This moment?
Miles now stood over a sitting, smiling Phoenix, cheeks and ears a little red from the cold. His eyes were innocent like one of a child, smile as bright as the setting sun, and hair being slightly messed up from a busy day at work. He was gorgeous.
“So, what’s on your mind? Do you have a case bothering you? Too many people at the office asking for favors? Nightmares, fears, what is it? I’m open to anything, always have always will. You can always just tell me, Miles.” Phoenix asked him, still smiling ever so gently. Crazy that they knew each other so well from their years of friendship and acquaintance that he could list off what might be potentially bothering them.
Alright, let’s begin this execution, shall we Miles? The blade is sharpening, ready to fall on you and your dumb heart at a moment’s notice.
Miles took a deep breath before beginning, “It’s… about you and I, actually…”
Silence. The smile Wright had disappeared from his face. His eyes became more serious and focused, as if he were playing a usual game of poker.
“Please, go on. I’m still open to hear you out. What about you and I?”
Breathe Miles… This is the part that you need to ask him something.
“Can you… Can you stand up for me… P-Phoenix?”
Phoenix’s eyes widened immediately, but he did as he was told and stood up from the seat, while muttering something about his back. His attention never left Miles however.
“Alright, I’m standing. Now what?”
Miles took a second to find his voice before asking, “I… Do you trust me?”
No hesitation from Phoenix, he responded, “With my life and Trucy, always.”
Ouch, that hurt Miles. Phoenix would trust him with Trucy, his light and daughter. One in which he’d sacrificed anything for… A daughter he’d give up his badge for, probably commit a crime for, and even sacrifice himself for. He’d trust him with her.
“Phoenix-- I’m sorry I’m about to break this trust…” Miles thought to himself.
“Can you… Please close your eyes… And… Don’t open them…”
Phoenix smiled, but did as told. He was now exposed to anything. Miles didn’t have to see those eyes widen with fear, or with disgust when he did what he was about to do.
Miles opened up the bag he was carrying the entire time to get the bouquet of flowers that sat inside. These particular ones were forget-me-nots, Franziska’s favorite flowers. Finally, he was able to give them to someone without Franziska stealing them from him. Doing his research, the flowers symbolize true love and respect, something he felt towards Phoenix since their beginnings in 4th grade. Apparently, when you give someone these beautiful flowers, it’s meant to represent a promise that you will always remember them and will keep them in your thoughts.
Miles was always going to give these to Phoenix to show that he never truly forgot about him, and that even after today’s events, he still wouldn’t forget about him. Phoenix was always fond of blue, so that worked in his favor as well, he supposed. Sure, the flowers cost him quite a bit, but money wasn’t an issue and never was. He never cared about money, even with his Mentor wanting him to find a wealthy person. All he wanted was for a moment with someone he loved to know how he felt. To understand the deep complexity of his feelings, and to reciprocate for just the slightest moment. And here, he was going to get that from the man who did him basically everything he wanted.
Miles softly handed Phoenix the flowers, despite his eyes being closed.
“A gift? Am I allowed to see them yet?” Phoenix said, still keeping his eyes shut.
“Not yet, I still have a few more things, so please… keep your eyes closed.”
Phoenix didn’t say anything after that. Miles then pulled out his Prosecutor’s badge from his pocket. The symbol of his career, and proof he was a Prosecutor at heart. He gave it one good look before putting it back in his pocket. Something to ground him before he was about to go full on panic mode. Then, Miles pulled out his phone to quickly take one last photo of Phoenix Wright. Thankfully his phone was on silent, so Phoenix couldn’t hear it being taken.
“What I’m about to do right now is… S-Something I’ve yearned t…to do for many years now… When… When it happens, you may open your e-eyes… I… God I hope this doesn’t ruin our friendship, Phoenix…”
Miles felt his eyes begin to water as he looked at the man he loved so much. He was doing all of this for his sake, standing there completely unaware of what was going on, and it hurt knowing this was where their story ended. Miles’ breathing became rapid, becoming visible in the air, but he ignored it.
“Miles? Are you ok ?! What are you doing?!”
The decision of what to do with Phoenix like this had Miles at war with himself for the entirety of the day before. There were a plethora of things he could do with him in this state. The number one thing he wanted was to hug him and never let go, knowing that if he did, he’d have to say goodbye to him, like at an airport. It’s something he wanted to do with his Father when he left, and the same applied to Phoenix. However, he didn’t deserve a hug. After everything that happened to him, he still didn’t deserve a hug. He still flinched to a simple touch, and a hug wasn’t going to help with that. Miles was tempted to just hold him by the face, caress the skin that had once cried on some of his early days of his disbarment. However, Miles didn’t want to screw that up somehow. In the end, he went with the thing he wanted the most out of any of these confessions. Something he had never had or received, but seen plenty of times throughout his life.
Quickly, he took off his glasses and placed them in his breast pocket. He took one final look at Phoenix that he would burn into his memory. Miles stepped forward towards Phoenix, feeling his breath clash on his skin. Feeling the heat radiate from him just standing there. How he slightly shook hopefully from the cold.
“Miles? What is--”
“I’m sorry.” was all Miles said before finally leaning forward and meeting his lips. He knew at this point Phoenix had his eyes open, but he didn’t care. All that mattered was the feeling of Phoenix’s lips on his, and how cold they were, but were soft. It was an exotic feeling, different from the rest.
Miles loved it-- No, he cherished it.
Despite the cold, for Miles, it felt like a fire was lit. Like years of waiting had finally led to this moment and it had delivered perfectly. Sure he might’ve not been kissing him right, but this was his first one. His first and only one apparently since Phoenix didn’t even kiss back, but that was ok. That alone told Miles all he needed to know.
Miles severed the kiss, slowly backing away from Phoenix. His legs were shaking, mind running too fast for him to comprehend, and- yup- Miles was definitely crying. Phoenix stood there, not moving and looking at him like… oh. He definitely didn’t want that. His face was unreadable, but he wasn’t happy. That smile he had moments ago was now a frown . This is it…
“I’m sorry…”
Phoenix must’ve found how to move again, or remember that he didn’t die from the kiss as he started to reach out towards Miles, extending his hand and dropping the flowers to the ground. He didn’t even like the gift…
“Hold on, Miles-”
“ I’m sorry. I-- I messed this up too, huh--”
A sob managed to escape him as more tears came rushing down his face. He was shaking so hard, his breathing became unsteady and difficult as the world around him became a blur. His chest became tight and he was beginning to feel faint. Everything went wrong once again.
“Miles, wait…!”
“ I always mess these up, every single time, no matter how much I prepare myself, they never work… and… even you don… don’t…”
“Mi--s, br--t-- --le-”
Whatever Phoenix was trying to say he couldn’t hear. His heart beating was all he could hear alongside his mentor’s words. They were so loud, so persistent… So true.
“You didn’t want this… Didn’t want me… Why did I expect anything to change this time?”
“---ry! --les! -----ve!”
“Stop… Stop, please… I just…” the world around him got more dizzy as the sunset in the sky made him more nauseated. Every single sweat that rolled down his face intensified the feeling against his skin, and he felt like he was back in the elevator where he really should’ve died all those years ago.
“--les! ----the ---les!”
“I just… really…” his voice was no louder than a whisper at this point, and his heart felt so vulnerable and exposed. This was his breaking point.
“---Miles!”
In his chest, his heart had shattered, too wounded to be fixed.
The world for Miles suddenly became very light, as his vision faded to black…
The last thing he remembered thinking… or saying was…
“ I just… I want to know what love is…”
---
Phoenix this morning wasn’t expecting anything special to happen today. It was planned to be a slow day at the office with some unfinished business he had to… well finish it. Everyone at the office was busy, with Trucy and Athena doing a big show at another city nearby. As much as he wanted to support his baby girl and watch her show, his back wouldn’t handle the bumpy trip. So reluctantly, he stayed in his nice cozy office, expecting nobody to disturb him.
…Until Edgeworth walked in.
Now, surprise Edgeworth visits were generally the best. Any moment with the Chief Prosecutor was special considering how busy he was nowadays, and the fact he wanted to spend time with him did things to his head. This time… Something was off. Something had been off for months, actually. Ever since the Sprocket trial, something had shifted in Edgeworth. Phoenix wanted answers, and he was going to get them. Using the Magatama back in October on him showed 5 psyche-locks surrounding his heart. The chains however… they seemed tighter. So delicately positioned and placed like a security system that Phoenix never expected to see anything like that with Edgeworth. All it did was worry him more.
So when the man requested the two go on a walk in the middle of winter, Phoenix was inclined to say no. Not because he didn’t want to, don’t get him wrong. As he said, any moment with Edgeworth was special. However, he wasn’t prepared to help his friend and secret crush at that moment.
And sure, Maya and Franziska coming and threatening him was nothing new, but… Going on the walk only amplified Phoenix's worry. Especially when he closed his eyes. At first, he was happy when he felt something get handed to him. But Miles kept telling him to keep his eyes shut. He heard muffled noises mainly coming from Miles’ bag, and his breathing was ragged. His voice shook when he explained vaguely to Phoenix his actions, something he’d been yearning for. Those words didn’t ease him at all. Phoenix wanted to open his eyes, see what Miles was doing and make sure he was ok. From sound alone, Phoenix could tell he was about to cry. Trucy often did the same thing herself, and they always tried to hold in the tears, something Phoenix could never do. More moments pass, the cold starting to get even worse…
…Then, his lips met something freezing.
His eyes flew open, and the first thing he saw was his childhood friend crying as he kissed him gently. Phoenix didn’t dare move, too shocked to do anything. Looking in his hands were beautiful blue flowers he’d have to look at later, but for now his focus was on the Chief Prosecutor. Miles’ lips were cold and wet most likely from the tears rolling down his face. His body was shaking as he stood there, and despite his eyes being closed, Phoenix could see how desperate he was. The kiss, Phoenix thought, spoke all the words that needed to be said. Not exactly how he pictured kissing Miles Edgeworth (because there were a lot of ways he thought of that.) as he thought it’d be more like a satisfying conclusion, this kiss… It was melancholic.
This was especially true when they broke off, and Miles finally met his eyes. His shaking intensified and his breathing picked up. Phoenix dropped the flowers as he slowly approached his friend. The words he spoke to apologize were so heartbreaking, so broken it hurt to watch. Phoenix kept trying to call out to Miles, but he didn’t acknowledge he was there. Phoenix was right in front of him, absolutely terrified and worried for his friend…
“ I just… I want to know what love is…” were the final words his best friend got out, sounding like a little child who was lost. His eyes fluttered open and closed really fast, before eventually just staying closed. His knees buckled, and he leaned forward.
Phoenix was right there when his best friend collapsed on him, fainting from what appeared to be emotional exhaustion, or emotional overexertion. Here, Phoenix felt his body as it pressed against his, and it was freezing. No heat, he was cold as ice in Antarctica.
Now Phoenix, absolutely terrified that his best friend might’ve had a heart attack, nearly called around for help. Alright Phoenix, hopefully you remember how to do CPR. Doesn’t it require pressing your lips into theirs? I’m not against kissing him, but unconsciously might not be the wisest decision. Thankfully his body worked smarter than his mind (sometimes), and he gently carried Miles to the bench. Looking around to make sure nobody was nearby, Phoenix placed his head against Miles’ chest to make sure his heart was still going.
Ba dump. Ba dump. Ba dump. His heart rate was definitely steady and still going. As for the potential of cardiac arrest, well he was still breathing. Phoenix was no expert, and he definitely should call for an ambulance, but everything pointed to him passing out due to emotional overload. His panic and hyperventilation being the cause and not his heart.
He was that worried about my reaction. I’ve never seen someone so… petrified. Phoenix needed to get somewhere warm, like, immediately. Quickly undoing his jacket to hopefully provide Miles some more warmth, Phoenix went back to go pick up his flowers and the bag Miles brought and placed it around his wrist. Alright Phoenix, you’ve broken down doors in the past with this man, you can carry him back to the office.
The walk back carrying Miles on his shoulder was tedious. Nobody thankfully was on the streets to stare at him, but it felt so awkward to carry an unconscious person. How do criminals carry dead people like this? I don’t think I’d want to become a criminal if all people weigh like THIS!
When halfway back to the office with Miles, a realization hit him: He could’ve just called a taxi to take the both of them to his home. I could’ve had a heater and a comfortable enough seat this ENTIRE TIME! Why did I not think of this sooner!
The rest of the way home was done by taxi, who thankfully did not ask Phoenix any questions as to why the Chief Prosecutor looked the way he did. The ride was smooth unlike Phoenix’s mind. There was a lot to unpack from this one walk, and most of it made his heart hurt. But that was going to be a discussion with Miles later. When they got to Phoenix’s house, Phoenix tipped the driver well before hurling Miles through his front door. Thankfully the taxi helped warm up Miles, but he was still cold underneath all the layers of clothing.
For the time being, Phoenix decided to put him on the couch in his small living room. He removed his friend’s jacket and placed his glasses aside, but kept his own and the scarf on just to be safe. Putting a pillow to support his neck and finding nearby blankets to cover him, Phoenix went throughout the house to find comfort items. He even found a Santa hat to act as one of his night caps. He prepped the items needed to make tea and hot cocoa, prepared some water on the table to help with his dehydration, and got some tissues because something told Phoenix that he wasn’t going to wake up too happy. Once everything was basically set, Phoenix went to change into some more comfortable clothes in his bedroom. An old t-shirt and some Steel Samurai pants Maya bought him one year for Christmas was much more suitable than his full 3 piece suit that was definitely going to have to get cleaned and maintenanced later.
Phoenix returned to his living room and sat down next to his best friend. Being covered in blankets, he looked… oddly peaceful. Or at least, the most at peace Phoenix had seen him in when taking into account the past few months. It was comforting for Phoenix to see the hard working man sleep. He knew when he awoke it was going to be a long talk, so Phoenix decided to make the most of his relaxed state.
I never expected to receive a kiss from you, Miles. I love you, but please… Tell me why even after everything you are still suffering…
Phoenix patiently waited till Miles awoke.
---
Every part of Miles' body hurt when he awoke in some strange place. His head was wearing something, and something that wasn’t his usual cravat was tied around his neck. A loud groan managed to escape him as he got up, and took a look around his surroundings. A heater was on and blowing hot air into the room, the window revealed it was nighttime now, and… oh.
Every single nerve in Miles’ body shook as soon as his vision caught sight of his friend, sitting there on the couch sketching something. His breathing already intensified, and he felt himself already growing dizzy--
“Morning slee-- Miles? H…Hold on!”
Why is he here? He shouldn’t be here… I failed so why… Is he pitying me? I shouldn’t be here right now-- I need to go home, and cut this string. I-
“Miles, please… Breathe, take slower breaths… Don’t pass out again…”
Phoenix placed a hand on his cheek, and it was so warm. So soft, as if he were holding something precious. His eyes, so sparkly and warm, looked at him like an intense inferno dedicated to finding the truth. Miles wanted to drown himself in that warmth, but--
“You… I… You…!”
“Miles, please don’t cry… It’s ok…!”
The words went through one ear, and straight out the other as glassy eyes stared into concerned ones.
“It’s not ok… I’ve doomed everything… I failed!” Miles cried as more tears flowed down his face. Whatever hat he was wearing fell off when he tried to get up, only getting stopped by the man he loved in front of him.
“Don’t go, please wait, Miles.” Phoenix whispered to him, not yelling or even showing signs of panicking. He was so calm, so relaxed under pressure.
“I… I failed… for the fourth time…” continued to speak, feeling every sensation flood his senses. Every light blinded him, every sound made him flinch, any touch shut down his body. His mind was getting louder and louder by the moment, not letting this moment of weakness by.
“Miles--”
As he told his Father late at night, Miles really couldn’t contain all of those bottled up emotions anymore. The glass had been cracked, but now it was broken. His emotions and feelings started spilling out in such a pathetic voice, while he tried to stop himself from crying. He tried to grab his elbow for support, but his body still trembled and wasn’t going to stop anytime soon.
“ I can’t find anyone, nobody wants me. So I ask, does that make me broken ? What am I doing wrong that everyone else seems to understand and get? Is it because people think I’m lying about my feelings? Is it because I’m only attracted to men that people find me so repulsive ? Or is it just because I’m an unlovable human being incapable of receiving this kind of feeling? How do I fix myself? How do I become normal? When do I get to feel love?”
Phoenix wordlessly handed him a tissue, looking at him with such a sorry expression. Miles blew his nose making breathing so much easier. Phoenix cupped his face again, hand even warmer than the last time. Miles couldn’t resist, he leaned into Phoenix’s hand and placed his own over Phoenix’s. The fear Phoenix might remove his hand, letting the warmth linger on his skin again was… It stressed him. The touch showed that somebody was there, that he wasn’t alone and trapped. At least, not physically. If he let go… Miles didn’t want to think, so he kept talking as more of his emotions spilled effortlessly.
“Every time I find someone, this warm feeling enters my chest and it makes me feel like I’m in a dream. Makes me want more with them, to be together like a family, and yet… they never feel the same. I… I’m just… It’s like I’m the issue here…”
Miles took a deep breath, not ready to say what he was going to say to Phoenix who still listened to him (or maybe he just ignored him and pretended to listen, like everyone else.). Phoenix didn’t speak, he still remained quiet in front of him.
“Continue, it’s ok--” Miles would like to think he was saying with just his body language. It’s not, he’s not giving you that luxury, your not worth it--
“I think every time to myself… sniff… that this will be the one person who will stick. The one who will show me the metaphorical light and stand beside me against the world. She laughed at me, he never wanted anything more with me, and he… he told me I was unlovable…”
A beat.
“Then there is you… You, who saved me from my mentor and past. You, who made me want to change myself. You, who I wanted to do anything for when you were disbarred. You, who believes in me at any given moment and is my best friend in this cruel world. You’ve been a constant nearly my whole life, always in my thoughts and… God…. I had fallen in love with you. I can’t hide it anymore…! I love you so much, and… and I want to spend the rest of my pitiful life with you. And that scares me”
“Miles…”
“ It scared me more than you’ll ever know. Every time I fall into what is described as love… those people I knew and love left. We were never the same after I confessed, and any form of friendship or partnership we had was severed. So… What would happen with you? Logically speaking… I’d lose you too…”
Once again, Miles physically recoiled at the thought, feeling his heart burn inside his chest and his throat become tight.
“ I’d lose you too,” Miles repeated, readying himself for the punishment he knew was coming, “ my oldest friend who changed my life for the better. All because I selfishly wanted more… So now… Here I am… Now you know of my past failures and… I’m ready for your rejection…” Miles shut his eyes as tight as he could, balling his hands into fists so tightly they would likely turn white soon.
“Miles, I just… wow.” Was all Phoenix said after that heart-jerking conversation.
“ I’m sorry.” Miles finally stopped leaning into the hand that saved him, already knowing the outcome. As soon as the words left his mouth, Miles would be gone. He’d drown himself in work, fix the entire legal system, teach-- Do anything that would give him a distraction for his mind after the upcoming moments. It’d never work due to Phoenix always being on his mind in some form, but maybe then this punishment would become less painful.
“Don’t apologize… Please, you did nothing wrong, Miles.”
“ I DID EVERYTHING WRONG!!” Miles shouted so loudly his lung hurt afterwards, and it made Phoenix physically back up.
“ WHEN IT COMES TO YOU, I SCREW UP EVERYTHING! And it’s ALWAYS my fault, always…” Miles clutched his elbow again, in dire need of support. “You… You’ve done so much for me, and how do I repay you? I leave a questionable note, leave the country when you are here suffering either in a hospital or with your career. I act so cold and mean towards you when… You’re the last per-person who de-deserves to r…receive that…”
Finally, in a tone of voice most people didn’t hear, Miles uttered the words he knew summed up his entire existence, “I don’t deserve anyone.”
“STOP SAYING THAT!” Phoenix shouted, tears streaming down his face now. Great, look what you’ve caused now Miles. You made him cry. You made that wondrous face cry.
You’ve always made him cry , his mind supplies him, and wasn’t that the truth. Miles should’ve skipped lunch in 4th grade if it meant sparing Phoenix Wright from all of this misery. Should’ve written a less vague note, stop leaving him behind in one country, been there ready to support him while he was in the kin--
“Please Miles, just please listen to me--”
Phoenix spoke tenderly, with such a caring tone that Miles would prosecute for. The lighting of the room making his tears appear like little stars going down the milky way. Phoenix grabbed a quick tissue to wipe his rapidly falling tears.
“I forgave you for all of that years ago. Even if you don’t believe me, I forgive you for it all now. I could never hold that against you, Miles. And… just… Seeing you like this. Seeing you have to repress all of this from me… Miles, how long have you been feeling this way?”
Miles shrugged, he lost count of the years and frankly, he didn’t want to know.
“God-- You… Don’t listen to them.” Phoenix took a hold of his hand, feeling how fragile and small they were while they shook violently. “Whoever laughed at you, whoever didn’t feel anything towards you, and especially the one who said you were unlovable, because you aren’t. I don’t know what they were smoking back then, but clearly they were high. Miles, you-- God… I’m sorry.”
“Wha- What do you have to apologize for!?”
“For causing you this much pain. To say I’m sorry you have to feel this way.” Phoenix took a deep breath before giving him a small, genuine smile.
“Miles, please believe me when I say you are loved. People do love and care for you, trust me. You have Franziska, Gumshoe, Kay, Sebastian, Maya, Larry if you are in the mood, and your co-workers. We all have some form of love for you, and sure, it’s platonically, but you are important to us. Doesn’t that mean something to you?”
“Of course, I confide in them all! Except… maybe Larry. But that’s all platonic-”
“Love is love, Miles…” Phoenix delicately told him, a grin on his face as he readjusted himself on the floor. He was now kneeling before him, holding his hand still.
“Let me try and explain this to you in another way… Alright, there are many ways to interpret it, as I’m sure you know, but the way I see love of any kind… you know, platonic or romantic, is as a very close trust between two people. A deeper friendship of sorts with no fear of losing one another due to each other. Not only that, but I find love has to go both ways, otherwise that is just admiration and idolizing. It doesn’t matter who you love, as long as you're doing no harm and are happy, you aren’t doing anything wrong. At least, that’s how I see it. Obviously the concept goes deeper than that, but… That’s how I see it. As for how that can apply to you--”
“...Do you love me?” Miles finally asked, holding his breath and staring at Phoenix with pure hope in his eyes. Phoenix had never seen the man so hopeful, so open and vulnerable when he asked the question. It only made him think of younger versions of him looking like this, only to get tossed aside and trampled over. Phoenix would never do that, he didn’t deserve that.
“Miles, you quite literally defended me in 4th grade, made me change majors in college to see you again, made me beg to let me defend you, made me grieve when you left the note, delighted me when you checked on me at the hospital, were one of my guiding lights during my disbarment era, helped me get my badge back, and to top it all off we are best friends who go out on a regularly basis. If I somehow did all of that throughout my life without falling in love with you, I’d think there’d be something wrong with me.”
Miles’ eyes widened in absolute disbelief, everything suddenly feeling too good to be real. His heart nearly stopped after beating frantically for so long. “Then… you…”
“I might’ve froze when you kissed me because I was shocked beyond all belief.” Phoenix smiled widely before placing his hand behind his head in that one pose he did, looking a little flustered as a little pink blush appeared on his face.
“... You… You love me?”
Phoenix booped him softly on the nose. “Of course, always have, most likely always will.”
“B… but the flowers-”
“Are sitting in a vase on the kitchen counter. Don’t remember what the tag called them, forgiven knots…? But they are really pretty. I didn’t mean to drop them, but I was really concerned about you in the moment. If I had to choose between some flowers and you, obviously, I’d pick… errr, you.”
Words became hard to speak for a moment as Miles processed everything that came out of that ridiculous man’s mouth. His forgiveness, concerns, definition of love… Everything felt passionate, endearing, loving--
“So… we can… be together…?”
“Jeesh, Miles, you make it sound impossible! Like I’m some sort of mythical bein- Oh wait… Okay I guess I kind of am. We can be whatever you want this to be.” Phoenix laughed, and it was the most beautiful laugh in the world for Miles to hear. Anything he wanted, huh?
“Can… can you g…” Miles still struggled to ask what he’d wanted for a really long time. Just ask for it, even if he leaves and laughs at you, just say it you fool!
“Can I- Can I have a hug?”
Phoenix didn’t hesitate for one moment as he stood from the ground. Slowly and gently, he wrapped his arms around Miles, allowing his head to rest against his chest. His hands lightly tapping his back, Phoenix’s head resting against his, blowing air into his gray strands of hair. Miles meanwhile grasped for the man’s waist, not willing to let go. He felt toasty, safe, comfortable, and loved in Phoenix’s hold. When was the last time he felt this way? It didn’t matter, because Miles was feeling alive for the first time in a long time. If he could, Miles would stay there, in his toned arms, for the rest of time.
“I love you Miles. Never forget that please.”
The two most certainly had more to discuss, more insecurities to go over, and past events that explained each other’s actions… but they did not care. In that moment, they were together at last, their mutual pining finally known to one another and appreciated. A long road full of bumps, blood, and tears finally reaching an ending.
“Please tell me next time when you need a hug or to express yourself. I’ve always been right here, Miles, and I don’t plan on leaving.”
Years of waiting, of tears and fears, finally concluded when Miles got his first hug in over two decades. He didn’t flinch at the contact, nor did he feel uncomfortable. He felt loved, and truthfully, that was all he ever wanted. To feel what everyone else felt. To get it unconditionally.
“I love you, Phoenix. Thank you, for everything.”
Phoenix ran his hand through his gray messy hair, proceeding to make it even more untidy. His reward was a quick swat of Miles’ hand, before the two went back into another hug. The two fell asleep together on the couch, holding each other and never wanting to let go. Meanwhile, two spirits in the afterlife were finally at ease knowing that their sons were going to be okay.
---
“FINALLY! IT TOOK YOU TWO SO LONG, BUT WE FINALLY GOT THE ENDING WE DESERVED!” Maya happily shouted as she threw confetti over the two men when they got to the Wright’s Agency the next morning.
“You two fools should’ve gotten to this point sooner, but at least now you have each other.” Franziska sternly told them, a smirk on her face as she eyed the two fools before her.
“Seriously Daddy! The moment you introduced me to Mr. Edgeworth I knew something fishy was going on. Why couldn’t you two be together when I was still here and not about to head off to college!” Trucy was telling Phoenix, hands on her hips and cheeks puffing up. She had grown up so much, but was still a child at her core. Miles was glad, and hoped she would be okay with the… relationship…
“T…Trucy, I er--”
“Uncle Miles, did you even have to have consent from me? Of course you can kiss Daddy and do whatever you want to him! If you make him happy, that’s all I really care about, which you are because he’s blushing! Look!” Trucy interrupted him cheerfully, pointing out his now partner’s blushing face.
“Was that-- Did I--”
“No, it wasn’t you, Miles-- I just…” Miles didn’t need him to finish that sentence, as he wrapped his arm around Phoenix’s, and leaned in for a quick peck on his cheek. That blushing face intensified, and an even bigger smile appeared on Phoenix’s face. Phoenix’s eyes closed in delight, like the sun on the beach hitting the ocean’s waves.
“EWWW! OK YOU TWO, I NEED A WARNING NEXT TIME.” Trucy dramatically expressed, covering her eyes as if she were being blinded by the sun.
That made Miles laugh, and the next thing he knew he was being picked up bridal style by his beloved.
“ WRIGHT! Put me down before you injure your back!”
“Oh, going back to last names I see. Also, who cares about my back, I’m too busy spinning the Chief Prosecutor!”
And then Phoenix started spinning in place holding Miles, who would deny till the day he died any childish yelps that came from out of his mouth. Phoenix ended up losing balance and dropped them both to the ground.
THUMP!
Miles quickly glared at Phoenix with no bite or malice, but stopped once a bubbly laugh came from Phoenix
“You foolishly foolish fools with foolishly foolish ideas, what were you thinking?!”
“Oh! Simple, I wasn’t! I just pic- AAAAAAAAAAH!”
CRACK!
“ YEOWWWWW!”
“Please do not injure the Chief Prosecutor, Defense Attorney Phoenix Wright. Any injury sustained to my foolish brother by your hands will be remembered by me.”
“Alright! Alright! I wouldn’t want to hurt him anyways! Please, no more of the whip!” Phoenix laughed as he sat next to Miles, who watched as his love subconsciously held his hand and rubbed his knuckles.
Who needs a perfect wife when I could have Phoenix Wright? Why does looks, money, and intelligence matter when I can have him? Your teachings once again fail to stand, Manfred Von Karma.
Miles once his dear stopped laughing leaned into Phoenix, except this time he began hugging him from the side. Phoenix wordlessly wrapped his arms around Miles in response, putting their heads side by side and basking in each other’s presence. Franziska and Maya rolled their eyes before turning around in response, holding each other by their waists. When Trucy showed Miles a photo she took of the two couples, he framed it on the wall in his office next to the photo of his Father and Phoenix. Constant reminders of what love can look like.
Hearts are fragile and delicate. They can break and they can be set aflame.
They were far from perfect hearts, but you just gotta handle them with care.
The End.