December 25
From Book girl fan: Christmas with the Watsons.
"I'm so glad you could finish up your rounds a little earlier today," Mary poured Watson a second cup of tea.
The doctor gave his wife a grateful nod. "Small blessings, especially for this season of the year when influenza is so abundant."
The couple retired to their chairs in front of the fireplace. The warmth gradually seeped into every fibre. Watson let out a long sigh.
"Do you like the tree this year? The green branches seem thicker than last year's."
"Mmm, yes, beautiful."
"Have you had a chance to try out your new writing journal?"
"Not yet, perhaps later in the evening though."
Mary smiled lovingly. "You have touched countless people with your stories. I hope you continue to find inspiration. I know it's been difficult for you recently. This is the first Christmas without Holmes." She paused. A tear rolled down her cheek. "I miss him too, you know."
The room grew quiet except for the crackling of the flames in the fireplace. A log split with a hiss of sparks.
Watson reached out for his wife's outstretched hand. He held it tenderly. "I do miss him," his voice choked up a little, "words on page in pen and ink just can't express it adequately. And, yet," he gripped her hand a little tighter, "I am ever so grateful for you, Mary. I don't know what I'd have done if you hadn't been here with me."
Watson turned his tear-filled eyes toward his wife. "Thank you," he whispered.
The logs in the fireplace gradually burned down and turned into glowing embers. The two held each other in tender embrace. It was a quiet Christmas night.
"Happy Christmas, dearest," she whispered.
"And to you, my love," he echoed.
Their tree, decked in colourful ornaments and reflective ribbons, twinkled in the candlelight.
All was well at the Watsons on Christmas.