"So, you expect me to believe that you're actually a merman, and that you made a deal with an evil sea wizard so you could learn more about humans?"

'Yes'

"And that the only way to stay human is by getting a true love's kiss? From me?"

'Yes.'

"... Fair enough. I've heard strangest things, actually. So, would you like to, I don't know. Go sightsee? You'd probably like that, what with 'wanting to get the whole human experience' and all."

Sherlock smiled in response, eyes bright and full of excitement, and John couldn't help but smile in return.

They went out, at a slow pace, since Sherlock was still getting used to walking on two legs, and walked aimlessly for a while, until they reached a library. Sherlock stared at it in confusion, before signaling John if they could go inside. John merely nodded and followed him in. He gave Sherlock some space, standing a few steps behind him, and observed him while he slowly approached a tall bookshelf. He brushed his fingers over a row of books, his gaze lingering for a second or two on each one, until he stilled and took one out.

"Science?" John asked.

Sherlock nodded distractedly and opened the book, obviously eager to start reading, but he came to a halt. He raised his head, his expression a mixture of worry and confusion, and took out the patch of paper and the pencil from his pocket, scribbling something before passing it to John.

'Is it all right if I read for a while? Only a few pages, I won't take long.'

John looked up, surprised by the request.

"Of course," he said.

Sherlock evaluated him for a moment, before shaking his head.

'No, we shouldn't. I would just be wasting time. I doubt you will fall in love with me in three days if you have to sit beside me and watch me read for an hour.'

John had to bit his lower lip to repress a smile. He was still sceptical about the whole 'falling love with someone in three days' thing, but he was sure that watching Sherlock read wouldn't be counterproductive. Even if they had been together for only a couple of hours, he couldn't deny the warm feeling in his chest that came from seeing Sherlock so fascinated from everything around him, how delighted he was by the simplest things.

"You can read for as long as you'd like, and I can sit with you and read something myself. I do enjoy reading, you know? I promise you, it's fine."

Sherlock looked hesitant, but relaxed when John curled his hand around his wrist, lightly pulling him towards the nearest table.

Two hours later, they were back on the streets. John led them to a small cafe in front of a big park, and Sherlock asked if they could sit next to a window so he could admire the view. They spent almost an hour in there, because Sherlock had became fascinated with tea and wanted to try more flavours. John had let him, of course, because how could he say no to those pleading eyes?

Once outside, and after Sherlock had made a small list of every variety of tea available at the cafe and convinced an amused John to let him expand his knowledge by talking to the cook back at the palace, they went to the park. There was a small group of men playing close to them, and Sherlock was instantly captivated by their music.

"Would you like to dance?" John asked, extending his hand to him.

Sherlock looked thoughtful for a second, but then took his hand, although unsure of what to do afterwards. John pulled him closer, taking Sherlock's arms and wrapping them around his waist, and then curling his own around the back of Sherlock's neck.

They danced slowly, so Sherlock could get used to the rhythm, but he proved to be a quick learner. John realized he hadn't taken his eyes off him since he asked him to dance with him- or, if he was being honest with himself, he hadn't been able to take his eyes off him since he found him at the beach.

Was he actually falling in love with him? He wasn't sure. Maybe he was simply fascinated by him. No matter what he encountered, the man became instantly delighted, his attention solely focused on the new piece of knowledge in front of him. It was endearing.

It took him a few seconds to realize that Sherlock was staring back at him, probably had been for some time now. Slowly, as if afraid John would pull back, Sherlock leaned in closer, his eyes never leaving his. Then, he pressed his lips against John's.

Nothing happened.

"Sorry," John whispered against his mouth, noticing the look of disappointment on Sherlock's face. "I don't... Not yet. I'm sorry."

With a small, wistful smile, Sherlock pressed another kiss on the corner of John's mouth and let go.

'Let's go back. It's late.'

John simply nodded, following silently behind him.

Authors notes:

Sorry I couldn't upload this yesterday; I'll do my best to post the next chapter as soon as possible.

Please, let me know if you see any mistakes, and constructive criticism is more than welcomed, as always.

Enjoy x