December 15

A/N: A continuation of chapter 14. Very grateful for this opportunity to continue the story.

From V Tsuion: Peace

"But why come to me for help with a Christmas gift for your brother?"

"Because, it's important to me…." The elder Holmes brother spoke softly. There was a hint of hesitancy though. He wasn't used to working within this uncertainty. He did not like the strange feeling, a feeling of being out of control. He was used to being in charge. He was comfortable only when he was handling every variable.

"Of course, I'll help you. But, why this year?" Watson looked up quizzically.

"I'm not getting younger," Mycroft gave a wan smile.

Watson waited.

Mycroft sighed. "My brother and I grew up. We went our separate directions. We haven't been close these past few years. I find I don't know my brother anymore."

Watson gave Holmes an empathetic smile. The poor man appeared to carry the weight of a hundred Christmases on his shoulders.

"You know, in spite of his sharp jabs and solitary habits lacking every social etiquette, he really does admire and care for you, Mr Holmes."

The elder man gave a wan smile.

"Underneath his Bohemian veneer, he loves you deeply," Watson added earnestly.

"Too kind," murmured The British Government.

"You know…" Watson suddenly sat up. His face lit up.

"I perceive you have thought of an appropriate gift for my brother to honour the spirit of the season."

"I believe I have."

"I'm not sure you'll like it though." Watson hesitated.

"I'm sure it will be better than another pipe which is what Sherlock would have received without your assistance," Mycroft answered politely.

"I don't know…It might require more effort than a pipe."

"A fair disclaimer, Doctor. Do continue."

"You came to me, Mr Holmes, because you wanted to restore your relationship with your brother? You want to bring peace once more and restore the warmth of the season between brothers. Am I correct?"

Mycroft Holmes nodded. "I believe I've already established that detail."

"Of course. Do excuse me. Sherlock is always reminding me that I have a bad habit of beginning my stories from the opposite side. What I wanted to suggest is an evening out – together."

Watson paused. The other Holmes was still listening.

"You two have more in common than you think. And, an evening over a fine dinner and champagne reminiscing tales of yore may be just the thing to rekindle your relationship. I mean, you're brothers. I'm sure you have all sorts of fun memories to laugh over. And, if you need a suggestion for a good restaurant, I can recommend the little Italian café around the corner."

Holmes leaned back and closed his eyes. He pressed his fingers together. He appeared to be calculating… lost in deep contemplation.

Watson let the quietness envelope them in the holiday flavours. He could hear the distant chatter of conversations on the street outside.

At last, the elder Holmes opened his eyes. He smiled. "Thank you, Doctor Watson. I believe you have proposed a most excellent solution to my problem. I shall make the necessary arrangements immediately."

As the distinguished gentleman rose to leave, he paused in the doorway. "No matter what ensues, you have my enduring gratitude. To peace!"

"To peace!" Watson waved goodbye.

~o~

"Peace cannot be kept by force. It can only be achieved by understanding." —Albert Einstein