No, [ comes his answer, soft as ever, ] You hadn't.

[ and that's the thing — if it was anyone else, he wouldn't even entertain it. but it's edwin, and when faced with his unflappable confidence, charles quite simply does what he always does: trusts him. if edwin says he'll find a way out, there's no question about it, he will. it's just a matter of time.

there's a sparkle in his eyes as he aims a bright smile at his best friend. ]

You're right. Course you are. Just another case, yeah?

[ it is funny how with just a few well-placed words, a few of his signature mannerisms, edwin's able to make charles feels more settled than he has in his entire two months here. ]

... I'm so bloody glad to see you, mate.