December 19: "Holmes has to take strange precautions" (from PowerOfPens)
A/N: Sequel to December 8: "The Mystery of Miss Marinescu".
After so many years of association with Sherlock Holmes, I thought that I would be more used to my friend and flatmate's strange doings. And yet, it is occasions like this that prove to me that we could live a thousand years and never cease to surprise me.
I came downstairs one morning, still rubbing blearily at my eyes, to discover that Holmes was, in fact, juggling. Quite successfully, I might add! Given his seemingly infinite ability to carefully hone skills and personal affectations necessary for going undercover, not to mention his impressive dexterity, I supposed I should not be surprised. I stood somewhat enraptured as he sent three balls flying though the air in our little flat, sometimes inches from the ceiling. Then, without missing a beat, he added a fourth ball.
"Well done, Holmes!" I exclaimed.
He looked to the doorway in surprise, and two of the balls hit the ground.
"Damn and blast, Watson," he growled.
"I guess you need a little more practice," I replied with a grin.
"Well, I only began last night," he replied, gathering the balls that had rolled across the carpet. "That much is inevitable. But I believe I shall be ready for tonight."
"What happens tonight?"
"I audition for a small position in the circus," he replied. "A fire-eater has consulted me about an odd matter involving a lion-tamer and a contortionist. I am eager to gain firsthand insights on the matter."
I picked up the newspaper sitting on the breakfast table. Sure enough, the circus that was currently in London was the same circus Miss Marinescu left with all those months ago.
Just before Holmes began his next bout of juggling, I broke the silence again. "I hope you are able to spend some time with her, old fellow."
Holmes gave a sharp bark of a laugh. "I think you misunderstand my affection for the young lady. But I am certain I will see Miss Marinescu once or twice before this case is through. Perhaps she will even be able to assist us in this matter."