[ he gives a laugh at that, soft and chiding, patting a hand against edgeworth's back. ] Don't need to, perhaps. But I'd like to, regardless. And I mean it, too!

[ he pulls back a bit from the hug, but grasps at edgeworth's hands in his and gives them a slight squeeze. looking into his face for a moment before giving a playful grin. ]

I think you're an incredible person! But since you insist on denying it so fiercely, I'll also have to deny you something. So -- you don't get to handle those dishes. I'm holding that privilege hostage for now, until you're a bit more honest with yourself. That's not too mean, is it?