The Little Things- Appreciation
by Superwhopotterlockbbc
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John has many hidden talents, some of which Sherlock knows about and other he doesn't. For example, John can knit a scarf in a little over two hours, so long as he takes no breaks. John can stitch anything rather well, whether it be skin, fabric or a relationship. John can hold a crying child and sooth it easily. John has sat in a chair for three hours, staring and giving a disapproving look before Harry finally cracked. John can do a lot of other things, some more useful than others.
John feels, on occasion that he is taken for granted, while other times he feels that he is given too much credit for his talents. There is almost never an in between and never one when dealing with his work. Whether he is taking out an appendix, or doing a regular check up, John Watson feels he is overly appreciated. He will do anything to avoid the inevitable 'I feel so much better, thank you!'
Why, you might ask. Because John is just doing his job. He is getting paid for delaying your death, and he does not require a 'thank you'. Thats why John both loves and hates Sherlock as a patient. On one hand, Sherlock refuses to sit still, or answer questions about wounds, illnesses, or poisoning. He will cross his arms and squirm and pout and not be at all manageable. But, on the other hand he does not give unnecessary thank you's. He doesn't look on at you with adoration. He will huff and stalk away as soon as, if not earlier, you've finished with him.
With everyday tasks, such as food making or bringing, tea pouring, opening a door and doing a load of washing for you, John requires thank you's. If he is not given them, he will become the exact replica of Sherlock on an examination table.
Sherlock pretends he doesn't care, and he makes sure everyone thinks it, but he does. Sherlock cares a lot. He cares if you think his work is amazing, he cares when you brush off his deductions with all the care of a mule and he cares when people call him names.
John knows Sherlock cares, and he makes sure to tell the man, on occasion that he is truly amazing. John doesn't need to remind himself to do so, not really. It slips out embarrassingly often.
Both of the men think the other is fascinating, in their own way. John thinks so when Sherlock makes deductions, and in doing so, helps someone. Sherlock thinks so when John does something completely and totally unexpected. Everyone around them knows they have feelings, somewhere, for the other. No one says anything. Better to let them reach that conclusion on their own.
