First Impressions

by chibiMuffin999

Sherlock Holmes isn't asexual. That's just what he tells people. It's easier to explain than 'completely socially-unable homosexual' . Events of the series from Sherlock and Watson's POV. (Sherlock first, then Watson.) Also delves into Watson's personal history. UPDATE: Continues through reunion of the boys and the growth of their relationship. (In charater, no smut)

35. Chapter 35

John was sitting on the front step of 221B when the sleek black car pulled up. He noticed many things at once as Sherlock Holmes emerged from it onto the curb. For one thing, there was a long pink scar on his face that certainly hadn't been there before. He seemed to limp slightly, putting less weight on his left leg, and most surprising of all, he leaned fairly heavily against a cane as he unfolded himself from the car.

Sherlock looked like he'd been through hell and back.

They stared at each other in silence, taking in the effects of the past year as the car pulled away again.

"What the hell, Sherlock?" John spoke first. "What the bloody hell- how- what happened? You were dead. I saw you fall. And now- just… how?!"

Sherlock limped forward and settled heavily into a chair for the café next door. He hated to have this conversation sitting down, but his side was still tender and his leg ached. He was a little embarrassed at the uncomfortable groan that escaped him in the process.

He glanced up fondly at John, taking in the uncertainty on his face in an instant. His inner doctor seemed to be warring with the intense desire to throttle Sherlock.

"I apologize for… well for everything. Unfortunately, I've been informed that I'm not to let you hit me for another few weeks, until the stitches are out. Though you're welcome to shout at me instead if that helps."

"-stitches…?"

"Yes. Though I'm told this one won't leave much of a scar." He couldn't quite bring himself to be as snarky as usual. He was just too damned tired and happy.

"This one-…" John shook his head. This was going to be a long, long talk… "Ok…Here's what we're going to do. You're going to come inside and I'm going to make tea. We are going to have carry-out, and you are going to explain to me exactly what the bloody hell I've missed. Then I'm going to try really really hard not to punch you anyway."

"Alright." Sherlock heaved himself up, almost overbalancing. John was at his elbow before he realized it, steadying him. They stared at each other for a moment. John moved away, looking awkward.

"Right…"

"John?"

"What?" He sounded weary.

"… I'm sorry. I really am. If there'd been another way-"

"Upstairs. Now."