Good lord, it has been a while, I apologize. In my defense, I made a Sherlock coat, then life and exams happened. So, the story thus far? I'll take this prologue down in a week, it's only a refresher.
Based on the crackiest prompt to ever catch my eye...
Once upon a time, John was working as a phone sex worker. In a fit of boredom and a desire to conduct an experiment, Sherlock called his line. Over the course of several calls, John began to fall for this caller called 'Hugh' and Sherlock was fascinated by John, only for their connection to crumble apart when John discovered he'd been the subject of an experiment. Disillusioned and a little heartsick, he quit his job.
Sherlock, unwilling to lose a person who he felt understood and had an effect on him no one else ever had, began searching.
As fate would have it, he found John, and arranged for him to have an 'accidental' meeting with Mike Stamford. He hoped to ensure that they would have a fresh start unburdened by their acrimonious falling-out, leaving it up to John to continue or deepen the relationship. Neither has acknowledged that they recognise the other from the calls - John because he is stubborn and wants an explanation for Sherlock's callous behaviour; Sherlock because his lack of candour over his reasons for calling a sex line caused their rift. He has promised himself not to push the issue and be content with whatever relationship John offers. In the meantime he will do his best to include John in his work, because it's obvious to him that John would be perfect and his work is his life.
Both men are British men in their 30s. Aside from that they are also reserved, wary individuals with trust issues.
Both recognise in the other something extraordinary. Both are unwilling to make the first move. Both are trying to deny what lies beneath. And the longer they wait... the higher the stakes of the game go.
Which leaves us at the end of SiP, and a Chinese dinner, and John moving into 221B Baker street with his 'new' acquaintance, Sherlock Holmes.
31st Jan, 2011
The Personal Blog of Doctor John H. Watson : My new flatmate
So, last night I went to look at the flat. Sherlock had already moved in so it was a bit of a mess...
And the madman himself? He's fascinating. Arrogant, imperious, pompous. He's not safe, I know that much. I'm not going to be bored and I doubt we're going to be arguing about whose turn it is to pay the gas bill or what we're going to watch on the telly.
.
.
"John! I've just had a text from Molly. She says she has three tongues for me."
"Really. Well."
"For use in testing food dye stains, don't be puerile. Molly works at Bart's. She was there the day we met?"
"We weren't introduced, but I remember her."
"Are you coming? I'd like to hear your observations."
"Doubt they'll be better than your own, but sure."
.
.
1st Feb, 2011
l The Personal Blog of Doctor John H. Watson : A Study in Pink
I've blacked out a few names and places because of legal matters but, other than that, this is what happened on the night I moved in with Sherlock Holmes...
.
.
"Do you mind if I use my own laptop now?"
"Just a minute."
"You said that forty minutes ago. You do have your own laptop."
"Mm. Took mine apart, needs more RAM."
"Okay. But I do need it back - there's a job-hunt website I have to bookmark. Time to brush up my CV."
"Jobs. Tiresome."
"Jobs - money. My pension won't be enough. Can I have it now?"
"Just a minute."
"Fine. Just don't be surprised if you end up paying the rent by yourself in a few months."
"Mm? Oh, here."
"Sherlock, watch out for that - God! Quick, mop it up!"
"Oh, that was clumsy of me. John, I apologise."
"You'd better get it working again, Sherlock. How am I supposed to find a job without a computer these days?"
"Good point. I'll take care of that."
.
.
5/2/2011 13:08
I require your assistance.
SH
5/2/2011 13:09
John.
Where are you?
SH
5/2/2011 13:10
Regents Park.
5/2/2011 13:10
You should sign your texts.
SH
5/2/2011 13:11
I'm skimming stones.
What do you want?
JW
5/2/2011 13:11
The reaction was stronger than
anticipated.
SH
5/2/2011 13:12
We may need a new work top.
SH
5/2/2011 13:13
Oh my god.
JW
5/2/2011 13:13
Never mind.
I'll handle it.
Don't come.
SH
5/2/2011 13:14
Then stop texting me.
JW
5/2/2011 13:15
I can't afford this.
Try not to damage anything else.
JW
5/2/2011 13:15
O ye of little faith.
SH
5/2/2011 13:17
It's not faith.
It's prior knowledge.
5/2/2011 13:17
How so?
SH
5/2/2011 13:18
My laptop - mean anything to you?
I'll be in later.
5/2/2011 13:18
You forgot to sign your text again.
SH
5/2/2011 13:20
Stop texting me.
Go and do damage control.
JW
5/2/2011 13:24
The milk helped slow the reaction.
SH
5/2/2011 13:25
I'll add it to the shopping list.
JW
.
.
"That was lovely. Was that Copland's concerto?"
"You know it? I was improvising from that, yes."
"I noticed. You know I used to..."
"What?"
"Oh, nothing. I played clarinet, once."
"You should take it up again. Music is excellent for promoting orderly thinking. It's as close to the purity of mathematics as any art will ever come."
"Heh. Somehow I don't think Mrs. Hudson would appreciate the sounds of me getting my technique back into working order again."
"Evidence is to the contrary - she tolerates my violin, doesn't she?"
"Yes, for the sake of the few times you stop twiddling with it and actually play, I think. A squawking clarinet isn't really the same."
"I almost never have anyone with whom to play a duet. You might consider it."
"Too bad there are no duets for clarinet and violin."
"There are a few. Quite rare, I did tell -"
"Tell me what?"
"Nothing. Never mind, stupid of me to suggest it."
"Did I say something wrong?"
"No."
.
.
7th Feb, 2011
The Personal Blog of Doctor John H. Watson:
He never slips up. He makes me doubt my sanity. It really is as if he forgot we ever conducted torrid telephonic sex or had the worst argument in the history of my life.
How can some one who claims to be a cold-minded, sociopathic thinking machine play violin like that? My god, that was beautiful.
Answer - he's not what he pretends to be. Don't let yourself be deceived, John Watson. He is still everything that fascinates you, and still the bastard who fucked you over.
Hugh.
Anyway, I'm up in my room, typing this in on my refurbished laptop (Thank you Sherlock for not dropping acid on it as well), just to keep some things clear and fresh. There are times when seeing things written down can help, so maybe Ella wasn't all wrong about blogging. I just don't want to publish all my thoughts for Ella and Sherlock and the world to see. I like my privacy.
I'd save this as a locked entry, but Sherlock borrows my laptop sometimes. I don't trust myself not to leave a tab open or forget to log out or something.
Anyway.
Delete entry - Y/N?
Yes
Entry deleted
.
.
"I don't know how anyone can live like this."
"For my work, I need to have data. This does involve running experiments sometimes."
"You could at least replace the chopping board. I don't think this one can be used for normal food any more. I insist, in fact."
"Take my card."
"It would be a bit more meaningful if you did it yourself. I replaced the last one."
"But I'm not the one who is demanding a new chopping board. It's fine, I bleached it."
"That's not the point!"
"The current one is safe for use, and I see no reason to exert myself to get a new one. The whole topic is uninteresting to me. Would you like a take-away tonight?"
"Fine. You're paying. And you will pay for a new board."
"As you like. Pass me my phone."
.
.
Fri, Feb 11, 2011 at 17:56
To: John Watson
From: Mike Stamford .uk
Subject: The flat-share
Hey John
Just thought I'd check up on you! How are things working out with the flat share? I'm glad you have the chance to stay in London. I can't picture you anywhere else.
I loved the blog entry on the serial suicide case. Sounds like it was an exciting night! I'm not surprised Sherlock worked it out. And he dragged you into it?
Tell me he's bearable to live with, I was a little worried about that. Not that I don't think you can handle him!
.
Fri, Feb 11, 2011 at 18:32
To: Mike Stamford .uk
From: John Watson
Subject: Re: The flat-share
Hi Mike
It's been interesting so far, to say the least. I never expected to flat-share with someone like Sherlock, that's for certain. He's in a class by himself - just not sure what class that is!
221B Baker Street is quite nice, I think I'll enjoy living there. The landlady, Mrs. Hudson is a dear. She brings up biscuits every now and then, but not because she's our housekeeper, as she reminds us. Doesn't keep Sherlock from trying to treat her as one, but she's firm with him.
I didn't mind getting dragged into the case. Got my heart going at times, but it was the most fun I've had in a long while. I think I was able to help out a bit.
By the way, I haven't thanked you for putting me on to the flat-share. Don't worry, it's bearable living with Sherlock. After Afghanistan, I think I can handle it. He's a clever one. Funny in odd ways. I think it'll work out.
Of course, it would be better if he didn't use random things lying around for his experiments. Yesterday he dissolved a slip of paper I had left out in some kind of solution. It had the phone number of a woman I met at a coffee shop I sometimes go to. Bit of a shame, no one's given me their number in a while.
.
Fri, Feb 11, 2011 at 18:45
To: John Watson
From: Mike Stamford .uk
Subject: Re: re: The flat-share
Oh good, I'm glad you'll be able to get on with Sherlock. Somehow I knew you would be able to keep up with him!
He destroyed the phone number? I can picture him doing that! Ha that's too bad! Never mind, plenty more where that came from.
Anyway, now you're definitely staying in town, let's keep in touch. Here's my mobile number, in case you want to have a drink one night...
.
.
"How are things with your doctor? He seemed vexed yesterday."
"He's fine, and really, you needn't concern yourself. I don't pay taxes in order for you to misuse the CCTV network to spy."
"Will you introduce him to me more formally at some point?'
"You made quite an impression both times you met. England isn't a dystopian state yet, and there is no need to play Big Brother. It puts people off."
"I would like to talk more with the man my brother spent a considerable amount of effort in locating and manoeuvring into becoming his... flatmate. Your John really is most singular."
"That's lovely. But Dr. Watson hasn't expressed a desire for such an encounter again."
"Sherlock. Have you considered the consequences of- "
"Stop spying. I'm fine. We are fine. Leave us alone."
.
.
Welcome to London Dating, the site for putting 'relate' into relationships!
Sheryl_28 (2011-2-13 11:06) writes: Flatmate woes
Hi. Sorry, this isn't really a question about dating. I have this great flatmate, and I want us to get on. He's really perfect, and I don't want to lose him!
QTdaMighty (2011-2-13 11:16) writes: Hi Sheryl_28. You sure it's not about dating? ;)
Sheryl_28 (2011-2-13 11:20) writes: Yes I'm sure! It's a relationship question, tho.
QTdaMighty (2011-2-13 11:27) writes: Just kidding, sometimes it can be awkward when one flatmate starts to fancy the other and the other has no interest.
Anonymous (2011-2-13 11:30) writes: Flatmates - best potential source of live-in sex in the world! R U mad? Jump him!
Sheryl_28 (2011-2-13 11:34) writes: o_O. Um, no, I don't want to take things that way! Unless he wants to - don't want to screw up a good situation! We're quite different anyway. Problem is, I'm a bit shy and bad at being starting friendships.
QTdaMighty (2011-2-13 11:38) writes: BFF it is then! I don't know, just hang out together, have some laughs. Talk.
AltogthrNow (2011-2-13 11:42) writes: Second that emotion. I love a guy or gal who can make me laugh. Best times in the world.
Sheryl_28 ( 2011-2-13 11:43) writes: Well I'm always talking about work with him. Thnx, I'll give it a go.
.
.
"Oh my god, you berk. You idiot!"
"Stop, stop... My stomach can't take it."
"You shouldn't have looked at me. Oh, the look on Anderson's face! How was I supposed to keep a straight face?"
"You started it. You are the one who this morning you doubted my ability to throw my voice. And thank you for the set-up, by the way, with that patently idiotic statement that the victim might still be alive."
"Never let it be said a former med student doesn't know how to set up a prank. I really didn't think you'd do it! And oh god, when he picked up the severed hand to check for... "
"'Don't touch me!'"
"Stop, you maniac! No, no, don't look at me!"
"Oh, oh... all right then. Being serious again. Ahem."
"Too late for that. Doubt Lestrade will be calling again."
"He will. Anyway, didn't you see him covering his mouth?"
"That was the second most ridiculous thing I've seen you do."
"Yes, I was brilliant, wasn't I?"
"Vain."
.
.
17th Feb, 2011
The Personal Blog of Doctor John H. Watson:
Sherlock really is amazing. My god, the man is clever. The things he does, the way he can see everything about a person or a crime in just a few moments - I can see why his work is so important to him. And it matters - he does great things, helping people. He is good. Very good.
He still has his moments though. The man could learn a few things about being a decent flatmate - I don't mean paying for things, but making an effort to help out a bit more. Tidy up the living room for once. I know he can, I've seen into his room. Not much of an issue, you might point out, if that weren't the only thing.
I think I was right. He doesn't want to bring up the whole phone call history we had. Not that I'm going to - bit awkward after all we've been and done since then. I haven't forgotten. I don't think anything got to me as badly in years - but I am beginning to see how he gets wrong-headed about things, and just bulls through, oblivious to everyone.
And so we go on - he doesn't say anything, and I won't. Got my pride.
Experiments. Social interaction. Christ. Talk about manners. How can he be so clever and so thick about the effect he has on people?
Every time he opens his mouth it's either a deadly insult or something so insightful and brilliant I can't help but want to - want to what? He hasn't shown a spark of interest. In anyone.
God, I fancy him though.
Delete entry - Y/N?
Yes
Entry deleted
.
.
"...and of course the step-father didn't notice - too busy trying to keep the family's fortunes afloat. The daughter honestly thought she was helping her family, trying to cancel her step-father's gambling debts."
"I can't believe it. That was... the poor girl was terrified, Sherlock!"
"Of course she was. With the police involved, all bets were off, and therefore her entire family was open for supposed retribution. A complete fallacy, obviously."
"What do you mean?"
"The mother was complicit. A new husband, a lovely young daughter - you noticed the plastic surgery scars, the slight bruising from injections? That was a woman afraid of losing her looks and terrified of competition. Even from her own child. Easier to let her daughter think their safety was an issue, plant the idea. The gambling debts were real enough, the men involved all too willing to take advantage and take her 'services' in trade. Enterprising way to clear the field, even if it meant the daughter was degraded. Clever."
"-"
"What. You've that look on your face. What is it?"
"Which part of it could be considered 'clever,' Sherlock? The way a woman was so selfish, so worried about her sham of of a marriage that she pushed her daughter into going to her step-father's debtors and volunteering to whore? Or is it clever that that the daughter believed that she was nobly saving her family from danger? By... by degrading herself in the sex industry? Is that what you think, Sherlock? Is it?"
"John, that's not what I meant, I never wanted to imply-"
"Shut up. You've said enough, I think."
.
.
Welcome to London Dating, the site for putting 'relate' into relationships!
Sheryl_28 (2011-2-23 23:32) writes: God I am such a berk!
I've gone and said something, and now my flatmate is super-angry with me! The problem is I didn't realise what I had said would bother him, not until after! What do I do?
QTdaMighty (2011-2-23 23:45) writes: Still not dating?
Sheryl_28 (2011-2-23 23:46) writes: NO.
Angel43 (2011-2-23 23:57) writes: lol foot in mouth disease happens to us all sweety. Do something nice and try to apologise. This applies equally to not-boyfriends, flatmates, mates, family - everyone. You ARE a bit awkward, aren't you. What did you say?
Sheryl_28 (2011-2-23 00:03) writes: Um. Well I may have accidentally said something about his old job position being - well that people don't respect anyone in that job? I swear I didn't mean to, it just came out all wrong.
Anonymous (2011-2-23 00:10) writes: Heard of the saying, "Think before you speak"? Never talk shite about people's jobs unless they openly indicate they disdain it themselves. You don't like his old job? Well, he had to do it. Why don't you kick him square while you are at it? Jayzus, learn some manners.
Xirtam (2011-2-23 00:16) writes: are you completely blond or something? you sound it Sheryl_28.
whotoseek (2011-2-23 00:18) writes: Let's not get into the blonde thing. Also - spell it blonde with an 'e' if you're talking about a woman.
Xirtam (2011-2-23 00:20) writes: fuck off grammar Nazi.
(Comment deleted) (2011-2-23 00:21)
Sheryl_28 (2011-2-23 00:23) writes: I hope I always think before I speak. I don't disrespect his job at all, the reverse in fact. I think it's wonderful he did it. I think he's great.
.
.
"Sherlock. Why is there a bag with ten pairs of black socks from Uniqlo in front of my bedroom door?"
"Oh, I when I went through your laundry basket I noticed that several of yours were getting thin."
"You went through - never mind, I don't want to know. Thank you, I guess."
"You're welcome."
"Why all black?"
"Because it's the only colour I found in the basket. Therefore -"
"Never mind."
"I approve. It's logical to have all the same colour and brand when one dresses in a hurry."
"Like you do, I'm guessing?"
"Don't be ridiculous, my socks don't come from Uniqlo."
"Ha. No. Of course not."
"Your jeans label indicated..."
"Yes, fine! Not all of us can wear suits everyday, some of us are still subsisting on a disability pension."
"...Biscuit? I just opened the packet."
"Don't mind if I do."
.
.
23/2/2011 18:32
Do you understand him at all Mike?
JW
23/2/2011 18:35
Sherlock? No not really.
He's an odd duck.
Mike S
23/2/2011 18:38
That's about what I thought.
Thanks.
JW
23/2/2011 18:40
What's this about? You all right?
Mike S
23/2/2011 18:42
It's a long story.
Also too weird to explain.
JW
23/2/2011 18:44
Don't know whether to laugh or kill him.
It's just a bit much at the moment.
JW
23/2/2011 18:48
Say no more, I know Sherlock.
Drink? It's quiz night tonight.
Mike S
23/2/2011 18:51
God yes.
Meet you at the Lion in twenty.
JW
.
.
"John! Wake up! Lestrade's just texted. There's been a murder."
"...time is it? God. It's five in the morning, Sherlock! Can't it wait?"
"You went to bed six hours ago, that is more than sufficient time for rest. I have to get to the scene before any evidence is trodden into the pavement. Come on!"
"Yes I went to bed at eleven, that doesn't mean I slept. The police have a medical examiner, they don't need me."
"I need you. No one else will work with me."
"Fine. But any chance for a coffee? I won't be any use otherwise."
"Now is not the time for coffee, John!"
"Right. Of course not."
.
.
2011/2/25
Dr. John H. Watson
221B Baker Street
London, Greater London
NW1 6XE
Dear Dr. Watson
The St Paul's Road Medical Centre wants to thank you for your interview for the position of General Practitioner. This letter is to let you know we have selected another candidate.
You were an exceptional candidate for the position and we hope that while you were not chosen...
.
.
"John. John!"
"...hhhhggh..."
"John, talk to me. Where are you hurt? Did he stab you?"
"-"
"Slash in the sleeve. The bleeding is insignificant, just a shallow slice. Here, let me help you sit up."
"No... wait... lie down..."
"All right."
"Hah.. haaa. Oh, fuck. Had...the wind... knocked out. God, my head..."
"Ah. Yes, there's a lump forming. Let me see your eyes. Pupil dilation normal."
"Sherlock."
"Yes."
"Sherlock. I'm... all right. You can... let go of my face now."
"Yes. Er. Did you see what shoes he was wearing?"
"No, sorry. Was a bit busy... being tackled down four steps there by a human bus."
"Pity. Still, we've got a chance, I know exactly where McFarland will be going. Come on, John! No time for lying around."
.
.
2nd March 2011
Barclay's Bank
136 Streatham High Road
Streatham
London
SW16 1BW
Dear Dr. John H. Watson
This is to notify you that as of 28th Feb, 2011, you have used £128.15 of your £300 overdraft limit. In 14 days, if the amount has not been repaid, we will begin charging interest at a rate of 19.3%...
.
.
"Hullo, Harry?"
"John! How are you? It's been a while."
"I guess so. A few weeks?"
"Yeah, since after that thing with the serial killer."
"I know, I'm sorry I took so long."
"Glad you've called, I was worried."
"Isn't it my job to worry about you? As your older brother?"
"You can try! But really. I'm fine. Well, not really, but it's better than it was, yeah?"
"Good enough to be getting on with, then."
"Exactly. What about you? How's things?"
"Good, it's been pretty good. I mean, I've been keeping pretty busy."
"Oh yeah?"
"Sherlock - you know, the flat-mate I mentioned on my blog -"
"That post about the pink lady was mental, by the way..."
"Yes, I was the one censoring your comments, remember? Anyway, he brings me along on his consultations sometimes, for medical opinions."
"Oh, glad you're working! Does consulting work pay well then?"
"Well, actually -"
"John. John, please tell me you've got something other than your pension. A flat in London, even shared, isn't cheap."
"I know. I just really haven't had the time to properly look for a job."
"Sherlock keeping you busy then? Oh. I see."
"Harry..."
"No, no. I'm relieved! I always wondered... You haven't had any serious girlfriends since you joined up, and now you've got a live-in -"
"Harry, for god's sake! This is not a joking matter."
"No, this is great! How long have you -?"
"Hang on a tick, Sherlock is shouting something."
...
..
"I don't know... No, I'm on the phone! Yes, with my sister! You remember I have a sister, called Harry? Not now, Sherlock! ... sorry about that."
"What was that all about?"
"I don't know, something about the extractor hood over the oven."
"Look, all joking aside, I'm happy for you. You're writing stuff, having adventures... It's like having the old John back."
"That bad, was I?"
"Even I could tell, and you know I was never the bright one in the family."
"Ha."
"You sound so much better."
"I am better. It's done me good. Not using my stick any more."
"No way! That's great news, John. How?"
"I don't know really. It was all in my mind, you know. I couldn't let it go. Sherlock just tricked me out of it one night. Been fine ever since."
"I'll thank him if you ever let me meet him. He means a lot to you from the sound of it."
"Harry... It's not like that. Not likely ever to be like that. He's not... oh, what now?"
"What is it?"
...
..
"Harry, look, I'll call you back later, okay? It's been great talking with you, but the kitchen's filling with purple smoke right now."
"What? John Watson, don't you dare hang up without telling me -"
"Bloody experiments...!"
*click*
.
.
7/3/2011 22:25
This program is boring.
SH
"It's not boring, Sherlock. It's a rerun of 24. And why are you texting me when I am right here in the room?"
7/3/2011 22:27
The intelligence of the protagonists
as compared with the antagonists fills
me with despair.
SH
"Mm hm?"
7/3/2011 22:29
The heroes don't deserve to prevail.
SH
7/3/2011 22:30
Their collective stupidity almost
matches Anderson's.
SH
"Trying to write an email here, Sherlock."
7/3/2011 22:31
I may expire from ennui.
SH
7/3/2011 22:32
All right I'll play along.
You won't die from boredom.
7/3/2011 22:32
You forgot to sign your text.
I keep reminding you.
SH
7/3/2011 22:33
So? You are not even
watching the telly.
7/3/2011 22:33
Who is texting me?
SH
7/3/2011 22:34
Your flatmate you prat.
7/3/2011 22:35
There's no evidence.
I mistrust texts from persona incognita.
I suspect sinister siblings.
SH
7/3/2011 22:35
It's John.
7/3/2011 22:36
And I know you are not watching TV
because you are staring at the back
of my head.
7/3/2011 22:36
Speaking of sinister people.
Stop it.
7/3/2011 22:37
Mysterious texts continue to arrive.
Am not staring.
SH
7/3/2011 22:38
Anyway how would you know?
SH
7/3/2011 22:39
My laptop screen is reflective.
JW
7/3/2011 22:39
John! I am astonished.
You are applying my methods.
SH
2011/3/7/22:40
Sarcasm not needed.
Learned that from James Bond.
7/3/2011 22:41
I wasn't being sarcastic.
James who?
And you forgot to sign your name again.
SH
7/3/2011 22:42
You are ridiculous.
I'm going up to bed now.
7/3/2011 22:45
Turn off the telly if you don't like it.
Not signing this text either.
"Good night."
"Good night, John."
.
.
8th March, 2011
The Personal Blog of Doctor John H. Watson:
That was almost like flirting, that text exchange. But he never followed up on it, so... What the hell? Good thing I left. Or who knows what I might have said.
He's getting to me. He's getting to me and he isn't even interested and I have to think about this. It's hopeless.
Delete entry - Y/N?
Yes
Entry deleted
.
.
"You can NOT keep doing that, Sherlock! You cannot keep haring off on your own!"
"Really, John. I'll heal."
"You'll heal. You'll heal."
"You sound like a parrot."
"Sherlock, they were in the process of kicking out your kidneys when I caught up!"
"Don't exaggerate, they only got a few blows in."
"A few...! Do you even hear yourself?"
"Perfectly well, as a matter of fact."
"Do you have a death wish?"
"No. "
"Then why did you leave me behind?"
"It was not my intention. I knew the bookie had information concerning the Major's cat, I knew where to find him, I took the opportunity."
"And of course, with your massive brain you didn't think that he would have friends with him? No, don't answer that, I know better."
"It occurred to me. There was no time!"
"And you still left me behind. Why? I can take care of myself! Why do you bring me along if you don't want my help?"
"John, I do need your help. I... am not accustomed to working closely with another person. My habits -"
"Are rubbish. You can change them. You just don't want to. You never...Why do I even... God!"
"That's not true, John. I can change."
"I'll believe it when I see it. You could die, Sherlock. You could die, and then what would I - What would everyone do?"
"-"
"Well. Can you move? Let's get you out of here. Lucky for you I showed up when I did."
"Yes. Yes, it was lucky."
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[Locked] User: s_holmes
Case Notes
Title - Vauxhall Drug Ring
11th March, 2011
Abstract - Details leading to the arrest of Arthur 'Arty' McFarland, suspected maker and distributor of methamphetamine...
Procedural - …police demanded entry, whereupon the suspect fled the location. I had positioned John on a potential avenue of escape and gave pursuit myself while the police secured the laboratory... My surmise about the suspect's escape vector proved correct.
While in pursuit, I found John lying still at the foot of a flight of four steps.
John's statement, paraphrased - Upon seeing his escape blocked, McFarland pulled out a knife and ran at him, 'shouting like a nutter.' John evaded being stabbed but sustained a cut on the upper arm. McFarland's momentum was enough to knock John down the steps.
An examination of John's physical condition showed that the cut was minor though bleeding freely. Of more concern was his inability to breathe. After approximately one minute twenty five seconds his respiration returned to normal. Despite the possibility of McFarland's escape, I checked John's condition more thoroughly, finding that though he had a head injury, it was minor. His pupils were matched in size and though his ability to focus was slower than normal, he did not have a severe concussion. His eyes are very blue, but the right eye has a central heterochromatic ring of light copper around the iris - quite distinctive. I then urged him to his feet to continue the chase.
McFarland was able to scale a chain-link fence (threads from shirt caught at top, small smear of blood from a cut, bends in the wire links from his weight) and leave the vicinity.
Results: McFarland was picked up by police within 40 minutes based on information I was able to...
Discussion - Miscalculations: McFarland is a well-known figure in underground boxing bouts. Victims connected to his crimes are beaten, often severely. Carrying a knife is atypical behaviour...
Further: failure to inform John of the physical size/prowess of McFarland. John is in excellent physical condition for a man of his age, but in some circumstances...
Further: Positioning John at the top of steps evidently a mistake. The thought of possible injuries resulting from such a fall are disturbing. The potential for spinal injury alone...
Query – Having confirmed within 20 seconds of finding John that he was in no immediate danger, should I have left his side to continue after McFarland? Or would having John with me have been the deciding factor if we had caught up with McFarland ahead of the police?
Save before logging out? [Y/N]
Y
Saved
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"...and it is rare for a person to have glucose intolerance and impaired immune function at the same time. As the supposed victim was a shut-in who rarely saw the light of day, and taking into account the deformity of the pineal gland, it was obvious that it wasn't a case of murder for the sake of life insurance. The positioning of body was tricky but it was clear enough. Just a suicide due to severe depression - we might encounter more of these if we lived in a more northerly latitude. You should write this case up, John. It would make an interesting study for a medical journal."
"Mm..."
"John? You'll wake up stiff if you persist in sleeping in that chair. John."
"Never mind. Here, let me... Sleep well, John."
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16th March, 2011
The Personal Blog of Doctor John H. Watson:
Isn't this a right mess.
I thought I knew what I was getting into when I moved in with Sherlock Holmes. Fewer police raids, thankfully. Excitement, sure. As for the phone experiment, I think I'll never know. How do you bring up something that happened three months ago if the other person is determined to pretend it never happened? Answer: you don't.
So what's the problem? Hard to articulate, so here I am again. Typing slowly as the old brain revolves. Putting down the good and bad about living here, about Sherlock - maybe seeing it in black and white will help.
Where to start? Good things, then.
He got me to leave off the walking stick. I get the odd twinge, but then we're off and running, someone's trying to chuck me down a stairwell and somehow I forget I have a dodgy leg. I'm not having as many nightmares. My hand doesn't tremble any more. Not that I needed Sherlock's creepy brother to tell me why it doesn't. Twat.
I guess moving in with a certifiable madman has been good for my mental state, at least. Sherlock is brilliant. Talented. Impossible to ignore. Since that very first call, he's kept me from fading. I haven't felt this alive since the war. I could love him for that alone. God that sounds like I'm in a Mills and Boon novel. Anyway.
The negative side? He nicks my laptop, uses my phone, treats me like an errand boy. I have no privacy except what's in my head and even then... He drags me to cases even though he doesn't actually need my medical opinion. He's oblivious to the fact that I have to get a job. He listens to me about as much as he does his skull. It drives me mad when he says he needs me for a case and then hares off. There's justifiable risk, and then there's what he does.
He has no sense of boundaries. Well, I ran into that right off when he called the sex line. He was always pushing for more, more, more. I feel like he's still testing me, and now it's weirder because he gets right into my personal space, close enough to kiss. Except he doesn't. He just watches, like he's waiting for something. It's all I can do some days not to lean into him and -
Okay. So what's the problem? Why don't I just kiss him and get this over with? Besides the fact he has never shown the slightest interest?
God, it's hard to get this right. Okay, here goes. I feel like I'm getting reeled into his life. Absorbed. Slotted into some convenient place. For him the work comes first and I'm becoming some kind of adjunct. Does he even realize what he's doing?
The problem is... the problem is it would be so easy. His work helps people. Even I can see the greater good there. And it's helped me - I'm so much better than I was after Afghanistan. But if I let his purpose become mine, where does that leave me? Lost. It would erode me, as an individual.
It's scary because it's tempting. Sherlock is so much bigger than life, it would be easy to be sucked into his wake. I was so alone, in the bedsit with the walls closing in on me. He's the best thing to happen to me in a long time. I could fall, so easily. And the longer I'm here and let this go on, the more my defences are crumbling.
I can't. I am not his tool to use and ignore at whim. I can't do this, can't let my guard down again, it will end up worse than before. John Watson you are not doing this. He's not interested in you. He doesn't see you, not really, and you are not going to fall for him. Not for Sherlock.
You don't get to have all of me, Sherlock Holmes.
Because I don't think I'll ever get anything back.
Delete entry - Y/N?
Yes
Entry deleted
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"It's true, though, Alex. I haven't had much luck so far with getting a job. I've been - well, my life does get a bit hectic but I'm beginning to wonder if they just don't think I'm past it."
"What, you? Please, Doctor Watson, you don't look much older than thirty five. If the NHS thinks you're too old, they need to see a doctor themselves!"
"Heh. Thanks for that. It has been worrying me, though. I can't keep up with expenses in London much longer."
"Listen, I have a friend who works at a practice in Paddington, I could ask her if she knows of anything."
"That would be... that'd be wonderful. If you don't mind, I would appreciate it."
"How about we meet for a coffee tomorrow, talk about -"
"John. Come with me."
"Um, could you excuse me, Alex?"
"Of course, Doctor. Here, take my card. Contact me, all right? If - you're available?"
"I'll do that, thanks - Sherlock. Sherlock! Leave off!"
"I beg your pardon. I only wanted to see your notes of the witness' account of the attack. But if you'd rather go back to flirting with him -"
"Would you keep your voice down! I was not flirting with him, he offered to help me with my job search!"
"Outright flattery, offers of help guaranteed to put you in his debt and hope for further contact - oh, that was definite invitation for further involvement on his part. Obvious. Then there's the close proximity, elevated heart rate, and increased respiration on yours. Shall I leave you two alone?"
"That. That is none of your business. He was offering to help me find work. If he wanted to make a pass, what's wrong with that? Why shouldn't I enjoy his interest? It's what normal people do in their normal, everyday lives! People like me! It's nice to be flattered once in while, isn't it? You of all people should know that."
"Yes. But during an investigation a professional demeanour -"
"Bugger that, that's rich coming from you! You told me to collect information, and I have. Anything beyond that - well, I'm not a 'professional' consulting detective, am I? I'm not the one married to my work. I don't have work. I can't... listen. I'm done here; here's the notes from the interview."
"John -"
"I need to... I have something else to do. Something normal, you wouldn't be interested. I'll see you back at Baker Street."
"...John, I'd be interested."
Because you are not a normal, everyday person. Because it's you.
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Welcome to London Dating, the site for putting 'relate' into relationships!
Sheryl_28 (2011-3-21 11:09) writes: Confused (me again with the flat mate)
I don't get it. We really are working out well together but something lately hasn't been good. He actually shouted at me the other day! :(
I mean I know I'm awkward and don't have much experience living with people. He helps me out with my work, I like hanging out with him. I like having him near, it actually feels weird and uncomfortable when he's not! We joke, watch bad telly.
I don't think I'm stupid - in my job I handle lots of info, and it's easy to categorize it. But I can't understand why it feels like he's pulling away.
Whotoseek (2011-3-21 11:24) writes: What's your job anyway Sheryl_28?
Sheryl_28 (2011-3-21 11:30) writes: Hard to describe. Kinda like a statistical consultant. I look at data, analyse, filter it and give conclusions. It's child's play for me but I don't get what's going on in his head! I mean, if I used work terms for him, he looks like a really average survey sample but I guess he's not!
Anonymous (2011-3-21 11:33) writes: Wow huge nerd alert
Angel43 (2011-3-21 11:43) writes: That's not really helpful, anon.
Well first off he's not data. You said you are not good with people, right? I think you wrote in a previous post you are shy? So give up 'analysing', coz it's not going to work with people, pet. If he's that special, he's not going to fit any box you can think of. And it's obvious you are not good at analysing people if you are as shy as you say.
Sheryl_28 (2011-3-21 11:47) writes: He told me once I couldn't tick off boxes in a textbook and understand people :( But for stats that usually does work.
QtdaMighty (2011-3-21 11:59) writes: He's right. And we keep hearing about your side of things. So you like talking to him, hanging out with him, etc. And now he doesn't - why? What's changed? Why did he yell at you?
Sheryl_28 (2011-3-21 12:12) writes: Um. Well I thought he was comfortable how things were. I include him in a lot of my life, he fits right in SO PERFECT. But he was angry - well I think one thing he's worried about is money which is ridiculous, I can take care of that for him. And he was working with me on a survey thingy and this guy kept hitting on him, and I told him to be professional and he snapped. OK, I know what you're going to say about that, go on.
QtdaMighty (2011-3-21 12:28) writes: Oh FINALLY here it is folks, what we've been waiting for since her first little 'help me with my flat-mate!' post. Is someone SMITTEN? Or is it just crazy flat-mate obsession? :D
sakura_chan (2011-3-21 12:29) writes: Danger, Will Robinson. Control freak in da house.
Xirtam (2011-3-21 12:35) writes: ^^^^THIS^^^^
Sheryl_28 (2011-3-21 12:36) writes: :(
kittypink (2011-3-21 12:42) writes: LOL ok that was a bit harsh but yeah.
Whotoseek (2011-3-21 12:50) writes: Doesn't he have a job? I'd worry about money too if I were in his place. Tho it's sweet you want to foot the bills, very anti-trad. Wish you would take care of my bills!
Anonymous (2011-3-21 12:53) writes: Um you are kinda pushing it maybe? You sound a bit smothery.
Angel43 (2011-3-21 13:01) writes: You like talking, you have fun. You feel 'weird' when he's not around. You think he's perfect. More importantly, you act like a jealous girlfriend when someone else showed an interest. Girl you better own up - you don't want him as just a flat mate any more do you.
Sheryl_28 (2011-3-21 13:07) writes: ...I don't want this. It wasn't supposed to be like this, I swear I never meant to ask for more. I can't.
Xirtam (2011-3-21 13:19) writes: Pfft you think you r the 1st to have this problem fancying your flat mate? Why can't you?
Sheryl_28 (2011-3-21 13:20) writes: I promised.
QtdaMighty (2011-3-21 13:29) writes: God what does THAT mean? No sex before marriage? No boyfriends? No shagging flatmates?
kittypink (2011-3-21 13:32) writes: Never mind that. Think what'll happen when she actually tries to confess she likes him. After living together for months? He'll run, like, 500 miles. Teh awkward! ;)
Sheryl_28 (2011-3-21 13:33) writes: OMG. This is hell. This is INTOLERABLE.
sakura_chan (2011-3-21 14:16) writes: Poor guy, living with a bunny boiler.
Anonymous (2011-3-21 14:19) writes: Bunny boiler wtf?
Xirtam (2011-3-21 15:00) Fatal Attraction!1! Google it, you infant!
QtdaMighty (2011-3-22 20:18) writes: Hello? Don't quit on us!
Anonymous (2011-3-23 06:35) writes: lol nice going guyz