[What was with that look? The intensity of his gaze made the color flush hot against his cheeks. Was it how he was looking at him or was it the effects of the alcohol finally catching up with him? Still, he did not relent. ]

What on earth would make you assume such a thing? I certainly have better things to do than hang around someone out of obligation. Doubly so, considering my lack of free time in my earlier life as a chief prosecutor.

[He finally broke his gaze from Phoenix, to glance at the large warm hand that was now covering his, only to return to those intense blue eyes that looked at him so darned earnestly. He made no effort to move his hand away, but the action made a fluttering feeling in his chest that much more intense.]

I admit, that I missed spending time with you as well. If anything I am grateful for the time we have been spending together as of late. And yes our relationship had certainly evolved greatly over the past two decades.

I am gladdened by it.

[How could he express to the man how very much the other man had meant to him? Phoenix was the catalyst for his revival. The very reason that he was alive now. That he was so very scared that his friend could have perished due to the illness, recently. It was his incredible luck that led to him being here, now.

He had no words to express the depths of what Phoenix had meant to him. He started.]

...You... are my dearest friend Phoenix.

[With his free hand he covered Phoenix's and squeezed it. It was a small gesture but he hoped it would convey more than he could visibly express.]