And maybe if they hoped hard enough, it would become a reality.

He rubs at where he was cuffed with a feigned faintly wounded expression, which is immediately followed by a borderline petulant expression that would belong more properly on a younger version of his face.

"Totally would have. And I have to admit, I'm impressed you managed to make it as long, all things considering."

Edgar hadn't exactly been known for his enduring calm, after all. Not in life, at least.

"Must've learned something from me after all."