Disclaimer: I do not own Sherlock. :)

My mind is frozen. My palms, sweaty. Mouth, dry. The words on the cards before me blur as I try to read the first sentence. People watch me expectantly, becoming impatient at my lack of talking, the mood becoming awkward with the unexpected silence. I can feel the heat of a blush crawling onto my cheeks as the minutes pass by. Why can I not speak? I can always express what is on my mind, so why on the most important day of my best friend's life, can I not say a few kind words that I know will please him immensely?

Ok, I just need to take a deep breath and calm my racing heart down. Why is there no oxygen in the room? Is the world spinning or am I the one spinning?

What on Earth is wrong with me?! Pull yourself together, man. Goodness sake, concentrate, don't let him down now. They must think I've gone into shock (I'm surprised that someone hasn't already draped a blanket across my shoulders). I must look like a total idiot standing there with a fearful expression on my face. What must I look like?

Mind Palace, I need my Mind Palace, NOW.

Thank the groom for allowing you to be his best man. This is my chance to thank him officially in front of the guests.

"Ladies and gentlemen." damn, my voice sounds shaky. I knew I should have had some kind of alcohol before making this speech, stupid feelings. "I would just like to thank my friend, John

Watson, for allowing me to be his best man today."

Good, good, now what next? Tell an anecdote, nothing inappropriate.

"In the time that I've known John, we've had some of the most ridiculous arguments I have ever experienced in my life. Mainly about milk. I know it sounds petty but for some reason we always seem to run out of the stuff. Naturally, I assume it's John's job to go and pick up groceries while I whip a corpse." fantastic, they are laughing. Continue, Sherlock, continue. "So, John," I turn to my right and smile at him. "I have a wedding gift for you." from under the table, I produce a carton of milk, the brand he likes. "Happy Wedding Day." more laughter.

Right, now for the tricky part.Acknowledge the Bride, say what a perfect choice and match the couple are.

"When I was first introduced to Mary, I can honestly say I was a bit shocked at John's choice. Usually, he goes for brunettes." awkward laughter, the guests are not sure how to take this remark. "However, once I got to know Mary, I realised that he had found his soul mate. They were both so in tune with each other. He knew when something was troubling her and she knew when he needed feeding." they are laughing once again, this is a brilliant sign. "Mostly, I was in awe of this woman because of her patience with me. Not many people find me easy to deal with but Mary quickly warmed to my set ways and adjusted her life to suit mine. Sitting there, is not only a woman but an angel. She has changed both John and I's life for the better." people are beginning to cry. I can feel the panic rising once more, have I said something wrong?

Finish Sherlock, hurry, before you are either kicked out of the reception or told to sit down and not say another word. Raise a toast to the Bride and Groom.

Oh hell, they are crying, what did I say wrong?! "Now, if you would all kindly raise a glass to Mr and Mrs Watson, may you have a lifetime of arguments about milk, a lifetime of wonderful memories and a lifetime of happiness. I wish you all the best. To Mr and Mrs Watson!"

Everyone joins me. "To Mr and Mrs Watson." then there more tears. I am extremely worried now, they were all so happy a moment ago. What is wrong with these people?!

Suddenly I am engulfed in a hug by John and Mary, who are both tearful but smiling. That is when I realise that I have done everything right. I have fulfilled my duty as best man. I have made them both proud, especially John, my best friend.

The End