"It doesn't usually react that strongly most of the time, unless I'm overly stressed or in some kind of trouble - at least that's its usual pattern. It's not reacting right now, and hasn't, really, since I got off the bus, aside from a twinge here and there. I can only guess that stress hormones or fear are the major triggers. It's still strange, though, which is why I was asking if you'd seen anything or run into anyone unusual. It's never reacted like that before, but I wanted to rule it out."

Edgeworth fiddled with a lock of his hair that had fallen into his eyes. When he spoke again, it was in a distinctly apologetic tone. "I'm sorry. I know it's weird. This is going to sound terrible, but I almost wish Maya was here, so I could brainstorm something with her, and maybe figure out how to control it a little better."

He glanced around the restaurant. Any time you want to interrupt us with food, that would be welcome.