Phoenix clenched his teeth; that comment stung, but he refused to let it show, and he bit back his own remark to avoid aggravating the situation. Instead, he focused his anger on the tablecloth, his sauce-stained plate, and his half-empty glass of wine, scowling at each one. The night had been enjoyable and that’s what hurt the most. Through it all, he recognized that this had been Edgeworth’s attempt to lessen the blow, but all it did was tantalize Phoenix. They rarely interacted on a social level; who knew when they’d get another chance to now?

Phoenix glanced around the restaurant, purposely avoiding Edgeworth’s gaze. The check couldn’t arrive soon enough.