This was written in response to the SherlockChallenge November prompt: Illness
I decided to try something different when writing it. I hope it works.
The Personal Blog of Dr. John H Watson
May 21
Still Learning
It's been about three months since I moved in to 221B and today I learned something new about Sherlock. It's actually a little endearing, if I'm honest. As you've probably figured out, Sherlock will work no matter what. He constantly tells me all that matters is the work. Well, today I've learned that's not always true.
While scrolling through all the requests for his services in his inbox last night, Sherlock found one that looked interesting enough to pursue today. I had been expecting a text or two asking me to meet him, but no texts ever came. I was actually a little disappointed that he didn't need or want my help. As much as I complain, I do look forward to what little help I offer on all his cases.
When I got home today from my shift at the surgery, I wasn't surprised to see the flat empty and Sherlock's coat and scarf gone. The case would have taken him to Coventry and he probably wouldn't be back until tomorrow. As much as I wanted to be there with him, I was going to take this opportunity to enjoy the empty and quiet flat.
I put the water in the kettle to boil, placed a mug and the tea on the counter and decided to shower off the smell of the surgery. When I came out of the loo not less than ten minutes later and went to make my cup of tea, the kettle was empty and my mug was gone. I glanced into the living room and saw my mug on the coffee table and Sherlock curled up on the sofa with his scarf around his neck and his coat over him like a blanket.
I walked into the living room ready to scold him for taking my tea, when he looked up at me. He was the most pitiful picture of misery I have ever seen. He was clutching a tissue in his hand, his nose was red, his face was flushed, and he actually looked on the verge of tears. In a croaky voice he even admitted that he didn't feel well.
Sherlock Holmes is actually sick. I honestly thought I'd never see the day and was seriously dreading when it would come. With the way he is with other things, I thought he'd be fighting me on everything, complaining about every ache and pain, yet still out working cases. Surprisingly, he's very compliant and quiet when he's ill. Or maybe it's just this time. Either way, I'll take what I can get.
Sherlock is actually following all my recommendations and has even taken the medicine I've given him. Currently he's asleep since he's got a slight fever. Before he fell asleep, though, he told me he never went to Coventry; that he ended up turning down the case. He's actually been in bed all day.
Today I've learned that illness will keep Sherlock Holmes from the work and makes him want human contact. Right now, he's currently curled upon the sofa next to me wrapped up in his duvet, with his head on a pillow that he almost put in my lap.
I know Sherlock will delete this post after he finally reads this, but I had to post it. Like I said, it's endearing and it makes me happy to see a more human side to this amazing man.