145 Since I Lost You

Phoenix Wright
Wright Talent Agency
June 14, 2026, 7:50 PM

The dinner with Ema had been a bittersweet experience.

On the upshot, Phoenix had been genuinely glad to have his dear old friend back, despite still feeling foolish for avoiding all this time, for she no longer painfully resembled his ex, as he’d initially feared. This had made him all the happier to play catch-up, and it had been uplifting for his morale to learn that despite being now astray – albeit mostly due to his own hand – from all his other old friends, steadfast Detective Skye would always have his back. She, at least, had never stopped believing in him or his innocence. This was more comforting to his battered mind and wounded soul than any words could have ever conveyed, something he instinctively sensed she’d known. 

On the flip side, however, he was most perturbed to see that his unwitting slip of the tongue about Klavier had not only ignited Ema’s fuse but an inexplicable flash of pained betrayal in her eyes, which she hadn’t been quick enough to hide, as well. The knowledge that he was responsible for causing such upset to someone he adored had made him feel even worse than that heart-wrenching tune about a bride in a white dress performed by the live band, which he was grateful he hadn’t fully comprehended, despite Jesse’s repeated offers!

The brunette’s matchless fury had remained undiminished following the revelation about her boss and Phoenix’s disbarment, leaving the pianist leery of becoming a victim of the literal “killing the messenger” adage, given her current mindset.

Therefore, once dinner concluded and Ema had settled the bill, rather than prolonging the evening with coffee or dessert, he’d swiftly concocted excuses about an urgent errand before his upcoming gig as a pianist, and it would be quicker for him to just zip over on foot rather than making her drive through frenzied LA nighttime traffic, in the opposite direction. With a swift hug, he’d bid his friend a hasty farewell, pledging to reconnect very soon.

Returning home, he sought solace to unwind from the emotional tumult of the evening before embarking on his inaugural shift at Alden Tae’s as a moonlighting pianist. Half anticipating, half hoping for an audience either oblivious to musical nuances or forgiving of his modest repertoire comprised mainly of movie themes and show tunes. In the past seven years, he had only mastered a handful of songs in full: “She’s Like The Wind” by Patrick Swayze, “Faithfully” by Journey, “Shape of My Heart” by Sting, and the song that ignited his passion, “Grenade” by Bruno Mars.

Except for “Grenade,” he hadn’t returned to any of those melodies. His own lyrical adaptation, “I Would Break Every Law For You,” remained exclusive to that track, a heartfelt tribute reserved solely for it. Each of the other mastered tunes had been inspired by the love of his life. Yet, in less than 48 hours, she would belong to another man, marking the beginning of a new chapter in a different love story, effectively closing the book on the Phoenix Wright and Maya Fey tale forever.

With a sense of weightiness in his heart, Phoenix returned to his desolate abode, sinking wearily into his chair at the desk. Retrieving his slightly weathered notebook, now predominantly filled with reports on The Pink Princess/Steel Samurai DVD series gifted by Maya for Christmas 2024, he realized he had only a few episodes left to watch. Determined to fulfill his long-standing promise to his former lover, he intended to send it as a belated peace offering, reaffirming his commitment against all odds. She would receive it shortly after returning from her honeymoon.

But first and foremost, his former lover would get his letter. The one he had promised Iris that he would write, which would finally bring the truth of everything to light.

Rummaging around in his bottom drawer buried beneath neglected law files, Phoenix retrieved his journal, into which he had tucked the note baring his soul to the woman who, the day after tomorrow, would become Mrs. Longines Beaugosse.

While he had fibbed to Ema by claiming he had an errand to run, he would have had to leave early regardless because he genuinely needed to return home before going to the Indochine pasta joint.

It was imperative to finish that letter tonight. Because it would be on this very evening that he, at long last, would send Maya’s long-deserved explanation in the mail.

Trucy was working that night, leaving him in an eerily quiet house. Initially, he had welcomed the silence, given his troubled state of mind. However, he soon realized that the ticking of the wall clock amplified his frayed nerves. Without much thought, he reached for the stereo remote and switched it on, inviting the soothing melodies to envelop the room as he contemplated what to write to the woman he had never ceased to love.

Maya Fey, the love of his life and the cornerstone of what he now referred to as the Fey Triad, had been instrumental in shaping the man he had become.

As he closed his eyes and reclined in his chair, a flood of cherished memories engulfed his mind.

The Fey Triad had provided him with refuge, enveloping him in its warmth and enabling him to reach his full potential. Their unity and unwavering belief in him had facilitated his growth, maturation, and acquisition of invaluable lessons. Even when stripped of his badge and purpose, it was Maya, Pearls, and their steadfast faith in his innocence that prevented his total collapse. Their support, albeit from the secluded village of Kurain, had empowered him to maintain his dignity and face the world with resilience.

It all began with Mia Fey.

Once upon a time, there existed a courageous woman with a heart of gold and an inexhaustible well of tolerance and trust, matched only by her fervor for the law. This legendary legal luminary had taken a weak-willed, frail-minded, pathetic crybaby of an art student under her tutelage, igniting within him a passion to become the man he had never imagined he could be.

Before the buxom beauty had entered his life, he ruefully admitted to being naive and overly trusting. He’d tended to offer his loyalty to unworthy individuals, such as Dahlia Hawthorne, or blindly extend it to troubled souls like Larry Butz. This behavior stemmed from a sentimental attachment to the passage of time, leading him to justify standing by Larry despite his repeated thoughtlessness and inconveniences. Despite his questionable choices in friends and romantic interests, Mia maintained an unshakable faith in him, standing by his side and offering patience and encouragement throughout his journey, even when doubts arose.

Mia’s unequivocal belief in him served as a catalyst for change in Phoenix’s mindset and perspective. She taught him to think outside the box, encouraging him to reconsider his initial assumptions and embrace simpler solutions that might be just around the corner.

Despite his uncertain beginnings, Mia Fey’s unwavering confidence in her underling had meant the world to him. Her belief in his legal prowess, despite his novice status, demonstrated a profound faith in his untapped potential. While others like Larry perceived him as a pushover and Dahlia viewed him as a mere doormat, Mia saw brightness and boundless promise in him. Under her protective guidance, he flourished, until her untimely departure left him to carry on her legacy alone. Despite his grief, he resolved to uphold her values, keeping his emotions in check as he had learned to do long ago.

Since I lost my badge, I’ve become adept at maintaining this facade, he reflected bitterly. Now everyone sees me as a cold-hearted son of a bitch! But no one can read this poker face.

And then there was Pearl. The memory of the youngest Fey child, whom he had once cherished as his own child, flooded his thoughts. Despite her growing up and likely no longer viewing him in the same light, a tender smile graced his lips. Little Pearl had epitomized innocence, a beacon of hope for the unjustly condemned, needing protection and defense. Her wide eyes and sweet smile never failed to warm his heart. Her staunch faith in him, along with her loyalty and love for Maya, had permanently endeared her to him, prompting him to watch over her as well. What touched him most about the pint-sized spirit medium was her unconditional love for him, evident despite formally addressing him as “Mr. Nick.” He sensed she regarded him as a father, mirroring the love he felt for her as a daughter.

He hadn’t even really minded whenever she would slap him whenever she thought he had somehow wronged Mystic Maya – whom the precocious girl had instinctively known was his “Special Someone” long before even he and Maya had drawn that every conclusion! Heck, somebody had had to smack sense into him every once in a while, and Miles Edgeworth had had a day job, after all!

Pearl’s virtuousness and steadfast belief in his goodness were his motivation to persevere through trials, upholding the integrity and honesty Mia had instilled in him. What Mia had begun, Pearl Fey had solidified.

I know I probably broke your heart when I broke up with Maya, Pearls. Phoenix shut his now stinging eyes. I hope someday you’ll be able to find it in your heart to forgive me. If only you knew that you were the reason I dared to believe I could be a father to another child.

That factor, along with a magical young girl bearing a cherubic countenance yet a mischievous grin, who’d evoked memories of them.

Mia had created Phoenix Wright, the attorney; Maya and Pearls bolstered him through adversity, while Trucy Enigmar wrought a metamorphosis, imbuing him with wisdom and maturity he never fathomed possible.

It’s a parent’s duty to be the stanch support for their child, never the reverse. While children may serve as emotional anchors, their needs and affection grounding their parents, there’s a clear boundary. When parents rely on their children for support, unless the child has matured into an adult, it can cause harm. It’s not natural for the roles of support to be reversed, though the love of a child can be a potent balm. Children shouldn’t bear the weight of adult concerns like global warming, issues they didn’t create and can’t solve. They are the innocent beings we stabilize with our maturity. When parents demonstrate true maturity, children can relish their childhood, growing into happy, loving individuals prepared to be good parents themselves, having learned from positive examples. I might not have always been the perfect role model, but I did the best I could. And for the record, Trucy sure as heck wasn’t grateful the one time, I put my foot down and made an example out of her misbehavior! I do believe that the infamous card trick was what earned me the title of “Meanie Daddy”…

Phoenix Wright and Trucy Wright
Wright Talent Agency
April 22, 2026

The day of reckoning had finally come, and Trucy couldn’t stay away from her home any longer. The chastened girl was presently having a staredown with the linoleum kitchen floor, trying unsuccessfully to seek refuge beneath the shadow of her hat as the typically easy-going Phoenix unleashed his fury over her courtroom card trick.

“Trucy Hecate Wright, I demand to know what in the name of sweet Jiminy Christ you were possibly thinking?!” The pianist’s face was red with ferocity. “Of all the reckless, disobedient, illegal shenanigans to possibly have pulled – and not even including the fact that you deliberately defied me and were at the courthouse in the first place, considering I specifically told you to go to school!”

The magician recoiled against the wall. Never before had she seen her father so angry.

“Daddy, I’m sorry for disobeying you,” she wailed helplessly. “But you can’t have seriously expected me to stay away, especially with the severity of the charges against you!”

“What I expected was my daughter, whom I’ve raised for nearly eight years, to respect my authority and follow my instructions,” he bit out harshly. “I certainly didn’t anticipate her to be a teenage delinquent in the making by committing such insidious unlawful activity! Forging evidence, Truce? Seriously?! Of all things?! Considering what happened to me?!”

“But Daddy – ”

“But Daddy, nothing!” The normally mild-mannered hobo’s voice escalated sharply. “Did you ever pause to contemplate the potential repercussions for both of us if you were caught?! That well-meaning young man who risked his reputation to defend me could have lost his badge, not to mention the possibility of you, an underage minor, facing time in juvenile hall … They might have skipped the hanging altogether and sent me straight to the electric chair!”

Trucy swallowed hard, her body trembling slightly under the weight of his biting words. She acknowledged her role in exacerbating the situation by evading her father’s texts and calls, and by spending nights away from home. However, she never anticipated this level of fury two days later, clinging to the hope that joy from Prosecutor Edgeworth’s surprise visit would have softened him somewhat.

“That didn’t happen though, right?” She finally managed, staring at his irate face pleadingly. “Everyone seemed to believe it was real…”

“Yes, they did. By some grace of God, for the first time in ages, luck was on our side that Kristoph confessed to the crime and didn’t speak of what he did with the real card, which he more than likely destroyed, nor did he further contest the validity of the evidence being forged.”

Phoenix threw his beanie on the kitchen table in agitation and began pacing the room.

“The other small bit of fortune that smiled upon us that day was the fact that we had that pipsqueak nincompoop, Winston Payne, assigned as the prosecutor of the case and that he was too much of an incompetent nimrod to demand a test on that bloody Ace after-the-fact…”

There was no need for Trucy to know what hand Miles Edgeworth had played in orchestrating that miraculous coincidence on Phoenix’s behalf!

“It wouldn’t have mattered whether he had or hadn’t, Daddy,” Trucy murmured, her tone resolute. “I might have acted impulsively, but I’m not reckless or thoughtless. I can assure you, no one will ever uncover the truth about the card.”

Her unexpected confidence, despite his heated reprimand, caught Phoenix off guard. Confusion laced his voice as he posed the question.

“No one will ever know?” He echoed blankly. “How can you be so certain?”

“It’s been too long for DNA testing, and the sample was too small for conclusive results,” Trucy explained, her voice wavering slightly. “Plus, with Kristoph Gavin’s confession, any further testing would be redundant and costly. Even if they did proceed, they’d only confirm that the blood type matches my biological father’s. I’ve researched this since the moment of your arrest. So forgive me, Daddy, but I’ve lost faith in the court system. I couldn’t risk anything happening to you, especially after all you’ve endured because of me.”

Phoenix wasn’t as disturbed by his daughter’s skepticism toward the judicial system as he was by her revelation.

“Because of you?” He repeated, his anger dissipating as he halted his agitated pace, coming to stand before the tearful magician. “What do you mean?”

“Daddy, I owe you the world,” Trucy whispered, meeting his bewildered gaze with urgency. “I’m not only the biological child of the man who destroyed your life, whom you chose to raise as your own instead of leaving in foster care, but I’m also the reason you lost your badge.”

Her voice shook with barely suppressed tears.

“It’s my fault you got disbarred! If I hadn’t given you that stupid piece of paper, none of these horrible things would’ve happened to you! It’s all my fault everything was taken away from you! And then you had to bear the burden of raising me on top of that…”

Phoenix was stunned by her words, wondering where he had failed. Trucy was the best thing that ever happened to him, and he made sure she knew how much he loved her every day. How could she possibly believe he blamed her for anything, especially considering she had been contributing equally to the household, including financially, since she was eight years old?

“Truce, you may have given me that diary page, but it was my own foolishness that led me to present it without hesitation. I’ve never held you responsible for that.”

“It’s kind of you to say, Daddy, but even if that’s true, you’ve still sacrificed everything for me!” Tears streamed down her cheeks. “You’ve never married or pursued your own family. You’ve put your entire life on hold because of me!”

In that moment, Phoenix realized the depth of guilt and self-loathing concealed beneath his daughter’s usually cheerful demeanor. Beneath her radiant smile lay a wounded heart and troubled soul she worked tirelessly to conceal, her effervescent facade masking a pain he had never fully comprehended until now. It was a revelation that pierced him to the core.

With the limited resources at my disposal, I’ve always endeavored to be there for her, to shield and comfort her. There’s nothing I wouldn’t do to keep her safe from harm, but I know I can’t protect her forever. All I can do is support her when she stumbles and stand by as she reaches for the stars.

He couldn’t recall a single moment when he hadn’t reveled in the joy of being Trucy Wright’s father. Whether they strolled together on a sunny day or simply shared a quiet moment, he found himself marveling at her blossoming beauty. She was a snapshot of time, with her chestnut hair dancing in the spring breeze and her youthful face illuminated by the sun. Her choice to wear the cobalt magician hat and cape, a departure from her former pink ensemble, felt like a subtle homage to Phoenix’s iconic blue attire, a gesture he deeply appreciated. To him, Trucy was incomparable. While some might view her as just another teenage girl or aspiring magician, to him, she was everything. Without her, he couldn’t imagine finding joy in the simplest of things, like a flower in bloom or the sight of the rising sun.

“Baby girl,” his voice softened, his exasperation fading as he searched for the right words to console the broken teenager now openly weeping into her hands. “Don’t you know that you’re the best thing that ever happened to me? You’re my world! I’ve never blamed you or held you responsible for the twists in my life’s path. I’ve even let go of any resentment towards the prosecutor who played a role in sealing my fate. Please, stop blaming yourself like this. It’s tearing me apart.”

“I can’t help it!” She wept, raising her tear-stained face to him. “After all you’ve done for me, there was no way I could let you risk losing your freedom and your life above everything else! I couldn’t lose both my daddies in one swoop! I couldn’t let you leave me, too! Everybody always leaves me!”

“Oh, baby girl.” He stepped towards the girl and pulled her into his arms. “I’m not going anywhere, I promise it!”

“Everyone is always leaving me!” Her petite body shook with sobs as she buried her head against him. “Mommy left me, then Grandpa, and Uncle Valant, and other Daddy…”

“I’m so sorry.” Phoenix stroked her silky tresses while his daughter soaked his sweatshirt with her anguished tears. “I only lost my badge…but you have suffered even more than I have. You’ve lost so much more in your young life than I ever did.”

“I always held onto hope of seeing my biological father again,” Trucy confessed, her voice muffled against his shoulder. “Just once more! But I didn’t even get to say goodbye to him! And then, right after that, Daddy Zak… went away. It felt like I was going to lose you too! I couldn’t bear being all alone.”

“I have tried so hard to fill the void he left behind,” Phoenix murmured, his heart aching. “I’m so sorry I couldn’t give you a Mommy and a family to help make up for the one you lost. I’ve tried so hard to be a mother and father to you, baby girl. I – I’m sorry if it wasn’t enough.”

His voice broke then.

“I was a young bachelor when I met you who didn’t know the first thing about being a father.  I know I didn’t have much to give you Truce, but I did the best I could. I really did.”

“Not enough?!” Trucy reluctantly pulled away from the comforting shelter of his arms and stared up at him in disbelief. “Daddy, you can’t be serious?!”

“You, a precious gem, surely weathered storms of criticism— backlash from parents of classmates, bullies, perhaps even teachers—bearing the weight of being the daughter of a disgraced forging attorney. And then, to compound matters, I became a suspected murderer,” Phoenix lamented, sinking into a chair at the kitchen table and covering his distressed face with his hands. “If anyone has borne the brunt of hardship due to another, it is you. Because of me, you’ve been denied the chance to hold your head high in pride.”

“Daddy, please!” She hurried to him, trying to gently remove his hands from his face so she could meet his gaze. “That’s not true! Please, just listen to me! In the tempest of my life, amidst the howling winds, you were my steady anchor. And now, I seek solace by your side. I’m keenly aware of the onlookers, their disapproval palpable and their judgment pronounced. I can’t help but wonder, what do they expect of me? To lift the world with one arm? To defy the tide with mere thought? Their expectations make no sense; they are as impractical as they are impossible.”

She perched herself on his lap, just as she had countless times as a little girl, and kissed his stubbly cheek.

“Everyone craves a harbor, a steadfast haven of love, for without one, we endure excruciating pain and feel utterly adrift. Life becomes an ordeal, mere survival devoid of genuine living. Daddy, you are my refuge, my emotional morphine. You encompass both the roles of father and mother. You are my hero, my guiding light, the only family I’ve ever required or will ever need. I am immensely proud to be your daughter, for reasons that are inherently pure and righteous. You embody safety and love, an unwavering anchor I cling to willingly. To those privileged individuals who have never tasted the bitter sting of rejection or abandonment, whose judgments remain confined by their narrow perspectives, I say this: your ignorance is blissful. But for those who have endured the harsh sentence of loneliness and anguish, I refuse to entertain their callous opinions and judgments. They can keep their narrow-mindedness and just – shove it!”

Phoenix laughed at the end of the heartwarming speech as he felt the ache in his chest slowly subsiding with the loving words of reassurance that he hadn’t even realized he’d so desperately needed to hear.

A daughter is a cherished gift, as valuable as any son, an individual of equal worth. She is not a vessel for familial pride but a person entitled to make mistakes and still receive unconditional love. She is not property but a sacred being, a blessing under God, bestowed upon us all.

“You are the most incredible kid in the world,” the pianist chuckled, embracing his daughter. “If ever you tire of performing miracles, Trucy Wright, you should consider becoming a speechwriter. You’ve convinced me that despite not having everything money could buy, you never felt lacking being raised by me.”

“You took in a frightened, abandoned little girl left like a stray puppy on your doorstep, something few others would have done,” Trucy beamed adoringly at him. “You could have left me to the mercy of the foster care system, but you chose to provide warmth, unwavering love, and patience. That’s why I love you so much. Your affection has been a true solace, helping me heal over time. You’re not perfect, but I never wanted you to be. You’re irreverent, funny, and wonderfully flawed. You make me feel both bound and free, laughing and somber. Perhaps you’re the one performing miracles, Daddy.”

As her shoulders slumped, she looked dejected once more.

“I thought I was helping you when I gave you that note, and I thought I was aiding you with that ace, but it seems my second attempt at a good deed was just a fluke. It feels like I’m always destined to disappoint you, Daddy. Why do you even bother?”

The ex-attorney lovingly patted the magician’s tear-stained cheek.

“Trucy, I’ve known you for nearly half your life now. I’ve watched you grow into an incredible young woman. I know the real you, not just the one you show the world. You have a smile and energy that bring happiness to everyone around you. You’re no more perfect than I am, but the good far outweighs the bad.”

“But I get frustrated and emotional! I make mistakes, I forget your advice, and I mess up all over again.”

Phoenix held her gaze and smiled tenderly.

“Trucy, I’m your father. I love you unconditionally, and that will never change. You’re human like the rest of us; you’ll make mistakes. But what’s special about you is that you own them, learn from them, and use them to become a better person. You light up the lives of everyone around you, including mine.”

The teen sniffled and buried her head in his neck as he marveled at the extraordinary young woman he’d raised.

“Baby girl, it’s my privilege to be your parent. When you came into my life, everything changed. I’m here to defend you, care for you, and help you become the person you’re meant to be — not a smaller version of myself, but your own unique self.”

The poker champion hugged her close, and she nuzzled against his chin.

“It’s my sworn duty to protect you, but it’s your right to make your own decisions as soon as you’re able. I hope my guidance leaves you independent, and able to love and care for those around you. Just know that my love for you is unconditional and eternal. You’re the eternal light in my heart, Trucy Wright, and I hope you never forget that. You’re my daughter, and I’m your father, and I love you with all my heart.”

“Oh, Daddy!” Trucy cried as a fresh wave of tears overcame her, but this time those of joyful emotion. She wrapped her arms around him tightly. “I’m so sorry I was a bad girl and didn’t listen to you! I didn’t mean to break the law! I love you so much!”

Father and daughter remained embraced in silence, savoring their precious bond.

“I forgive you, Truce,” he murmured. “I know you only wanted to keep me safe, even if you did resort to a naughty magician’s trick.”

Phoenix rocked the teen gently in his arms as he cradled her on his lap, and she rested her satiny head against his chest. His heart was so filled with love at that moment that he thought it would burst.

“Just one more thing, Trucy.”

“Yes, Daddy?”

“You’re still grounded for the next two weeks.”

Phoenix Wright
Wright Talent Agency
June 14, 2026, 8:00 PM

Alone now in the office, Phoenix laughed out loud as he recalled the look of stupefied indignation in Trucy’s expressive eyes when she’d discovered that as much as he loved and forgave her well-intended trespasses, she was still going to be punished for them! He was positive even the neighbors three floors down had heard her plaintive yowl of protest.

His little angel and hellion rolled into one. He would always love her, regardless of what role she played.

My daughter embodies the essence of an eagle, a fish swimming upstream, and a young lioness roaming the prairies. Once likened to a budding flower or a fragile spring leaf, she transcends these analogies with her inherent resilience and independence. Though her vulnerabilities remain known to me, she charts her own course toward the future. It’s time for me to adjust, to refrain from leading her path unless invited. Instead, I must empower her to journey solo while ensuring she knows where to seek guidance if needed.

His spirits still bolstered somewhat at the poignant memory with his daughter, Phoenix turned back to the partially completed letter, lost in thought about what to write next, when the song on the stereo suddenly caught his attention.

It was Elton John’s “I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues.”

Don’t wish it away
Don’t look at it like it’s forever
Between you and me I could honestly say
That things can only get better

And while I’m away
Dust out the demons inside
And it won’t be long before you and me run
To the place in our hearts where we hide

And I guess that’s why they call it the blues
Time on my hands could be time spent with you
Laughing like children, living like lovers
Rolling like thunder under the covers
And I guess that’s why they call it the blues

Just stare into space
Picture my face in your hands
Live for each second without hesitation
And never forget I’m your man

Wait on me girl
Cry in the night if it helps
But more than ever I simply love you
More than I love life itself

And I guess that’s why they call it the blues
Time on my hands could be time spent with you
Laughing like children, living like lovers
Rolling like thunder under the covers
And I guess that’s why they call it the blues…

Good grief! The spiky-haired man slammed his pen down onto his desk and glared at the speakers, which were still blaring the lyrics which were a bit too close to home for his liking. Normally the Knighted Englishman was one of his favorite musicians, but in the grand manner of life displaying its typical cruel sense of humor, it seemed the DILF was destined to be tortured by depressing music not only in restaurants but in his own home as well! Can I not catch a break from musical hell, just once?!

Normally the pianist had nothing but happy memories, now bittersweet, of the British performer, whose works Maya had adored as well. Thanks to her childish enthusiasm for cartoons, children’s shows, and all things Disney, Phoenix knew every single lyric to The Lion King soundtrack, especially “The Circle of Life” and “Can You Feel The Love Tonight.”

He could still hear his ex’s voice gaily singing along with Timon and Pumba to the latter tune in his mind.

Maya. He let out a wistful sigh. The day after tomorrow, you’re going to be a married woman. I wonder what you’re up to right now…

Maya Fey
Fey Manor
June 14, 2026, 8:00 PM

It had been a mistake deciding to play Elton John in her current melancholic mood.

In less than 48 hours she was going to be a Mrs. The prestigious wife of a billionaire. Maya should have been celebrating at the suggested Jack and Jill party Longines had wanted them to have together, but she had stubbornly vetoed the offer, as well as having her own bachelorette party, and insisted her fiancé enjoy his bachelor party with his male friends that night, insisting she would be fine enjoying some peace and solitude on her penultimate night in her home as a maiden as she lay in blissful contemplation of the new life looming just over the horizon.

Instead, she was holed up in her room, laying on her bed and staring at the ceiling, lost in agonizing nostalgia while listening to the heart-rending lyrics of a musician she normally adored and lamenting about how every verse seemed to remind her of her ex-boyfriend. 

Above all else, I ache to declare that his absence no longer weighs upon me, yet such words would be a fabrication. How I yearn to dial his number and engage in trivial banter as we once did. I’m still consumed by the desire to pose nonsensical queries, like, is it because of how dogs have bitten him in the past that his preference is for cats? Or does he really prefer grilled chicken sandwiches over burgers or was he a secret health nut all this time? Thoughts of him continue to consume me. I long to inquire if his love for me endures, if it ever existed in the first place. How I crave to recline on his bed, resting my head upon his chest, attuned to the rhythm of his heartbeat. Or to sit on the bed, surrendering to his kisses, again and again. Oh, to rewind to that initial encounter, that pivotal day when we first met. I wish I had possessed the courage to depart swiftly, ensuring our names remained unspoken, our paths untangled.

 I can’t light no more of your darkness
All my pictures seem to fade to black and white
I’m growing tired and time stands still before me
Frozen here on the ladder of my life

 Maya had never been the type to be impacted deeply by music before, but this particular song struck a chord within her heart she hadn’t even known existed up until then.

Ultimately, Nick, I couldn’t make you happy. You must confront your own pain and navigate your way through it. Our love, once vibrant, has faded. It seems the weight of your pain became overwhelming for us both, stunting the growth of our relationship. Now, I find myself stranded in this limbo, unable to move forward and unwilling to regress. I never wanted to let you go, but where do I turn now? What other option did you leave me?

“Perhaps,” she mused aloud, gazing skyward. “The melancholy of this song may be coloring my emotions, lingering from the pain he inflicted. Maybe my sorrow stems from the shattered belief that he wouldn’t hurt me. Or perhaps it’s simply because I am sad, with no specific cause. It could be the realization that something I gave freely is now irretrievable. Maybe my sadness is rooted in losing a piece of myself along with him.”

Too late to save myself from falling
I took a chance and changed your way of life
But you misread my meaning when I met you
Closed the door and left me blinded by the light

 I find myself entrenched in this relentless ache, unable to retreat from the agony of your absence. It’s akin to plummeting from a ladder, one you’d insist was merely a stepladder. Being in your presence altered me, just as I influenced you. Relationships are catalysts for change, whether for better or worse. They propel us forward, leaving an indelible mark on our souls as we exchange pieces of ourselves with one another.  

She tapped her chin thoughtfully.

Misinterpreting intentions is complex and deeply personal. In the throes of an exhilarating relationship, individuals may withhold their true selves for various reasons. They might feign a persona to cling onto their partner, only to realize, upon falling in love, that authenticity would have sufficed, sparing them from the ordeal. However, uncertainty about the other person’s feelings leaves one adrift. Suddenly thrust into reality’s harsh glare, it feels like being caught in the blinding headlights of a speeding, out-of-control vehicle. Even if one manages to evade the collision, the residual impact is undeniable.  

The future bride got up from her bed walked over to her window, steering sightlessly up at the starlit sky, and continued to mull her past.

Don’t let the sun go down on me
Although I searched myself, it’s always someone else I see
I’d just allow a fragment of your life to wander free
But losing everything is like the sun going down on me

Even now, I can confess – loving Nick came effortlessly. He provided me with security. Holding his hand felt like soaring, and his kisses were like a gentle breeze lifting me higher. Even mundane tasks like crossing the road became adventures with his hand resting on my back. His laughter came easily, and he possessed a softness, a kindness that enveloped me. He understood my quiet moments as much as my exuberance, listening intently to both my words and my silence. “Come here,” he’d beckon, arms outstretched, and I’d go to him without hesitation. “Stay,” he’d plead, and I would remain, again and again, captivated by his presence.

A heavy sigh.

Allowing the sun to set upon me plunges me into a profound darkness, an abyss devoid of light—a black hole. In my quest for self-discovery, I encounter a reflection of someone else—a form of self-deception, embodying a persona I’d rather not embrace. Yet, it’s a fragment of their existence that I grant liberty to roam freely. This notion resonates as one of the most poignant lines, conveying a willingness to accept the individual for who they truly are, irrespective of their “dark side.” It’s an acknowledgment that while this acceptance runs deep, it remains limited, for embracing too much of that darkness would inflict unbearable pain, underscoring the depth of love present.

The Master gave her head a firm shake, trying to shake these forlorn thoughts from her mind which had no business being there two nights before her wedding to another man, and she desperately wished they were somebody she could confide in about the kaleidoscope her mind had suddenly become.

I can’t find the right romantic line
But see me once and see the way I feel
Don’t discard me just because you think I mean you harm
But these cuts I have they need love to help them heal

I struggle to articulate the depth of what you mean to me, to express the longing to have you back. Yet, all you ever needed to do was glance at my face to discern the blend of love and anguish therein. Often, I’ve felt the urge to caution, “Do not disregard me simply because you’re averse to my counsel, which you steadfastly reject.”

The last line was amazing and so perfect as a finale.

Love isn’t selective; it embraces every facet—joy, pain, passion, rejection, anger, and lust. It navigates through raw wounds that defy healing, in search of that elusive soul mate. It’s about acknowledging that we all carry our own burdens, our own scars that ache for solace. Don’t be selfish; recognize my pain too, born from my own trials. Love demands endurance—it’s never effortless, but when you find that connection, you realize it’s worth weathering every storm. That’s what I believe Elton’s message is about—my interpretation, at least.

The unexpected knock at her door startled her out of her reverie, and she hurriedly shut off the sorrowful song before flinging the door open to find Mystic Matilda standing there, an artfully engraved wooden box in her hands, and a serene expression on her face.

“I hope you didn’t turn Elton John off on my account,” the village elder smiled. “He’s long since been a favorite of mine, although I must say that was a pretty moony musical track for a bride to be playing when she’s supposed to be getting married the day after tomorrow.”

“It was on the radio, so I decided to let it play. It wasn’t necessarily a reflection of my current state of mind whatsoever.” Maya knew she sounded defensive, even to her own ears, and she cursed herself for sounding so unnecessarily defiant to one of the few elders who had shown her even an ounce of compassion and kindness since she had become Master. “Anyhow, I must say this is a most pleasant, although unanticipated visit. What brings you here at this late hour?”

“I figured you would have enough things on your mind to worry about the actual night before the wedding, so I wanted to give you what I hoped would be your something blue and something old tonight,” Matilda explained, placing the box, made of a gorgeous rich walnut into Maya’s hands. “Assuming, of course, you don’t already have something?”

The older woman caught the blank expression on the future bride’s face and eyed her quizzically.

“You have something old, and something new, something borrowed, and something blue, do you not, Mystic Maya?”

The Kurain leader was completely caught unaware by the question, as innocuous as it was, and bit her lip as she contemplated it.

“I was going to wear my mother’s wedding dress, so that should have been something old. However, the idea was swiftly … axed,” she muttered, not without a trace of bitterness. “So as far as the bridal checklist goes, my wedding dress is something new, and Sister Bikini is lending me a pair of satin gloves as my something borrowed, but I guess I’m still waiting for something blue and something old.”

“Well, it’s a good thing I got here when I did then. The items in the box itself were requested to be delivered to you by the good Sister herself, but as you know her ailing back makes it difficult for her to make the trek down from Hazakura Temple, especially on these cool nights, so she sent me instead,” Matilda explained. “The box itself and one of the items in it is courtesy of Mystic Mia, while the other piece in there is bequeathed by Mystic Misty.”

“Mom? Sis?” Maya blinked in curiosity as she slowly lifted the lid, her eyes widening with surprise as she realized that it was also a music box, and immediately recognized the hauntingly beautiful melody as it began to play, reminiscent of a lullaby her big sister used to sing to her as a young girl. “How did Sister Bikini have anything left of theirs in her possession? I’d assumed that I had inherited everything from their estates when they passed?”

The question had come out as slightly rude, which had not been her intention, but rather than appear affronted by it, Mystic Matilda only smiled more broadly, after only the briefest moment of hesitation.

“It was requested that these items specifically be given to you for your wedding day,” the elder answered carefully, looking away before Maya could scrutinize her expression. “I’d love to see you try them on if you don’t mind.”

Nestled within the satin-lined chest lay two treasures: a stunning bracelet adorned with natural freshwater white pearls and a mother-of-pearl floral design, once belonging to Mia. Matilda explained its origin as Maya admired its delicate beauty, finding it exquisite on her wrist. Yet, it was the second item that truly captivated her—a breathtaking sapphire and diamond halo ring. Fashioned from lustrous white gold, the ring showcased an oval-cut sapphire at its center, surrounded by 28 round-cut diamonds intricately set along the band. Slipping onto Maya’s right ring finger with a perfect fit, Matilda observed the Master’s reaction with keen interest as Maya marveled at her newfound adornments. 

“That ring belonged to Mystic Misty, given to her by your father when they were betrothed,” the elder told the awestruck young woman. “It was her engagement ring. I know she would be very happy to have you wearing something so precious to her on your special day.”

“I love it.” Tears of emotion sprung as Maya trailed her fingertips over the stones. “I love both of them.  These pieces of jewelry are all I have left of them. I never want to take them off.”

“There’s a note in the jewelry box as well,” Matilda added gently, noting the psychic’s welling eyes. “It’s from Mystic Mia. She always intended it to go with this bracelet. I don’t wish to intrude on your privacy when you read it though, so I shall wish you a good night and see you in the morning. Till the morrow, Mystic Maya.”

“Good night, Mystic Matilda.” The diviner offered the elder a watery smile. “I was feeling sentimental, and a little bit alone tonight, for some reason, and I was missing people that were very dear to me who are no longer in my life. Thank you so much for giving me these at the perfect time.”

“I understand.” There was a compassionate look in the older woman’s dark orbs. “It’s a bittersweet experience having such a commemorative occasion looming ahead without your loved ones being there. But just know that they are always watching over you, and as long as you carry them in your heart, they are never truly gone.”

With the music box still playing in the background, the bride carefully unfolded the piece of paper hidden in the top, satin-lined drawer.  Despite immediately recognizing Mia’s elegant penmanship, she was slightly confused about that rather than looking slightly aged, as her beloved sibling had been gone for a decade now, the letter looked as if it had only been written recently. She raised her head again to inquire about this inexplicable mystery but saw her doorway was empty now. Matilda was gone.

Sinking onto her bed, the village head read Mia’s final message to her, as moving as it was slightly eerie, as though her sister had intuitively known that she would no longer be on Earth by the time Maya got this message.

My beautiful baby sister,  

I remember how you used to love the lullaby I used to sing to you as I rocked you to sleep in my arms every night.  

Even though I know you’ll be a grown woman now by the time you read this, I hope you still appreciate the sentiment of these lyrics, because as you listen to the music within the box which I had made especially for you, you’ll always remember that I’m always with you, and never feel like you’re truly alone.  

“Message”

 

While you’re in trouble, I’ve made this “message”
sent to you suddenly in the deep night.
It’s okay even if it’s just sometimes, as I said,
I’ll always be by your side.
Even if it’s unbearable, even when full of regret,
while you give a sigh, still try to move forward.
And if you believe in your future,
even when your heart won’t go, don’t forget.
After the tears have passed, give a smile.
Even on days when you’re lost and have stood still,
feel beloved as when I’d want to hug you.
Tomorrow is surely waiting for you, so don’t give up.
Bit by bit, draw closer toward your dream
and let’s watch the light together.

The noisy sobs echoed through the empty house, prompting the concerned Pearl, who’d been coming down the hallway, to immediately rush to her cousin’s room, stopping just by the door, which was still open, and spotted the bride lying face down on her bed, her body shaking with the force of her weeping, and a sheet of paper clenched in her hand in a grip so tight, it appeared she would never let it go.

The sight of the most important person in her life shedding such heartbroken tears right before what was supposed to be the happiest day of her life was nearly the teen’s own undoing. Never before had Pearl felt more morose or helpless. As much as she knew something wasn’t right when a bride was crying herself to sleep right before her own wedding, she also knew there was absolutely nothing she could do about it either.

It was the worst feeling in the world.

As tears of sympathy filled her own eyes, the spirit medium quietly pulled the door shut, allowing the room’s occupant her entitled privacy, and tiptoed away with a heavy heart, instinctively knowing it was best for Maya not to know that she’d seen her.

Genesis – Since I Lost You  (Chapter Quote)

George Michael and Elton John – Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me

Elton John – I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues

Mia’s Letter – English translated lyrics from outro song of the Ace Attorney Anime