The World's Only Consulting Detective and his blogger are finishing off the last of their meals on an ordinary Wednesday night in a restaurant not too far from the flat which they share together.

"…and then, once Sarah's last patient leaves we all hide in the lunch room. She's calling out for us because Jess the receptionist has turned most of the lights out". At this he pauses to finish off his last forkful of the risotto he's been savoring.

Sherlock watches on with rapt attention, having stopped eating the little that he had ten minutes earlier. A lesser person would buckle under the fierce gaze that he has latched onto his friend before him. His chin is resting on his fingers which are linked in front of his mouth, elbows firmly on the table.

"Hrm" John murmurs around the food, clearly having enjoyed the dish. He's used to the way Sherlock intently watches him so keeps talking, undeterred. "Then, Sarah flicks on the lunch room lights so we all jump out and yell 'Surprise!' and she is, she's so surprised that she squeals!" he breaks down into giggles. "Which makes Jess jump and drop the birthday cake! Yep, the gluten free one that had taken us half of our lunch breaks to try and find! So, we end up sticking a candle in the top of one of those novelty sized plush germs they have at the practice, right?"

Sherlock nods, keeping his eyes fixed on John as he enjoys the mans happy energy and that something that just is John Watson.

"And Dean, you know the new guy? He sneaks behind Jess and he scares her again-heh, and she throws the toy towards Graham"

"Yes" Sherlock nods, inviting him to continue.

"And Dean goes 'Where did that come from anyway?' and Graham picks it up and says, ha, he says 'I don't know, it just flu over here'!". At this John breaks down into unstoppable giggles, however he manages to get out "It was an influenza toy!".

Sherlock cracks a smile, not so much at the joke but at the others expression. He watches as John shakes his head with mirth, positively radiating joy. As the doctor keeps laughing, a solitary chuckle escapes Sherlock followed by many as he joins his friend, just enjoying this moment with him.

Soon, though, Angelo steps up to the table. "Can I get you the bill, Sirs?" he asks in a somber tone.

John looks up and even though he's making small, happy noises as he comes down from his amused state, a little frown creases his forehead.

Angelo then snaps out of his act, beaming as he shakes John's arm then barks out embarrassingly loud laughter. "Just kidding! Why would I charge my favourite customers? You eat here free, whenever you want, whatever you want! Yes?"

"Thank you, Angelo" Sherlock nods with a small smile.

John sucks in a tiny breath when he realises it is a real one, he disguises his reaction by finishing off his beer. The humour must have done the detective some good.

From here the Italian clears their plates and wishes them a good night. But not before hugging each of them.

"Shall we?" Sherlock asks pleasantly, standing and shrugging his coat on.

John stands and stretches while looking out the window to the night outside. There are some people walking past, a lady on her phone, cars driving down the street. They move to the exit together. "So I've finished blabbing on about me, what did you get up to today?"

Sherlock opens the door and holds it so John can casually walk under his arm and out on the footpath. "Well, you know that culture I was going to throw out weeks ago? I found it behind the toaster. The colours, John…" he begins to explain brightly as the door gently closes.


A/N: Thanks to those who have been reviewing.

I'm always happy to hear feedback both positive and constructive. I'm writing out some plans for the next instalments, let me know if there have been any stories/chapters that have stood out to you that you may like more of or any requests :)