Warning, Jim is a creep... and it doesn't really end there.
I love John... but I really love torturing him, apparently.
Enjoy!
At six in the morning, John was woken up by Mr. Brook shifting on the bed next to him. John was confused, but quickly remembered he'd woken the older man up sometime during the night.
Mr. Brook got up and went about getting his cardigan off the back of the chair. "John, I have to leave. Sebastian will be home soon, but you can be by yourself for another hour, yes?"
John replied sleepily "Yeah, I'll be fine."
"Want to walk with me to the door?"
John was confused, but he figured he might not see his new friend for a while, so he agreed. He got up, tucking Leo back in. Mr. Brook lead the way out of the bedroom and shut the door behind them.
"I'm sure we'll see each other quite soon." Mr. Brook leaned down, then did something horribly unexpected.
He kissed John on the lips.
John threw himself back half a step, as if being burned. His face must have gone instantly red. He could feel it flaming.
Wildly confused, throwing his hand up to cover his mouth and pulled it away like he was expecting blood, he looked at Mr. Brook. "W-wha- I-that- um-" John, for the life of him, could not understand why Mr. Brook had done that. It completely flew over his head.
"That's how you say goodbye to a good friend." The man said patiently. "I wouldn't expect you'd know, but that's what friends do." John had seen girls kiss each other on the cheek when they left each other or first met up… but, was it different for guys?
John didn't know. He'd never had a really good friend… Well, Sherlock, but even if kissing goodbye was normal, John knew Sherlock would never do that.
"W-well, I- that, Sherlock doesn't do th- that ." John didn't know how to feel. He'd never been kissed… Never kissed a girl… he'd thought about kissing people, but had never partaken, now his first kiss had been stolen. John felt like crying, but he didn't know if it was anger or simply confusion.
"No, he wouldn't. You and I are close in age."
"B-but, I thought you were older than him?"
"I am, but I'm also not your legal guardian, if he were to give you a friendly kiss or do other friend things with you, people would get the wrong idea and you could be taken away. You and I are in no such bind."
John was still confused. He'd seen some movies where really good friends who were both guys kissed each other in moments of importance… But Mr. Brook was just saying goodbye…
"W-well, w-what about Sebastian?"
"Sebastian doesn't kiss anyone . He's too cold and brutish."
John knew that wasn't true. Sebastian was one of the warmest and nicest people he knew…
"I-but, that-"
"Don't worry, I am your friend, right?"
John knew the man lied… but would he lie about something as odd as this? No. John would believe the man. He was a friend… right?
"W-well… If you're sure… W-will you teach me so I can… be a better friend to Sherlock? He's my best friend and I want to be his best friend… N-not saying you and I can't be best friends, of course!" Maybe Sherlock would treat him like an adult if John was his best friend.
Mr. Brook grinned a terribly twisted smile. "Yes. I don't think he would be able to resist you as his best friend. I'll teach you everything. Then, you can show him. How does that sound?"
John took a breath. He just wanted to be Sherlock's friend. "Ok… It sounds good. Thank you, Mr. Brook." He knew he could just say no if he didn't like it… Mr. Brook was his friend.
"Not a problem between friends, John." Mr. Brook turned to the door, pausing and turning back. "I just had a great idea."
"What?"
"We should keep your lessons a secret so we can surprise Sherlock with how good you are. Isn't it brilliant?"
John thought. He thought about Sherlock smiling and how much he would be happy John was around and how shocked he would be. John wanted to shock Sherlock. "Yes, I'll keep it secret, I promise."
"Good. I'll see you soon, dear boy." Mr. Brook leaned down and kissed John hard on the mouth. John fought hard not to pull away. A tingle ran through his lips and down his spine as he pushed back minutely. Mr. Brook pulled away, licking his lips and smiling. "See, better already. We'll practice more next time, okay?"
"Yes, sir. Thank you, sir…" John was sure he was bright red from head to toe. Mr. Brook seemed to like it…
Mr. Brook walked out. John couldn't tell if he was happy with that.
When Sebastian was finished, he cleaned up and made his way home. It was nearly half six. The last target had gotten a tip. He had been ready for Sebastian to come. After a chase around half the city and a short firefight, Sebastian's only injury was a terrible temper.
He would normally walk around a little to cool off, but he was already concerned about John. And he was about half an hour from there, walking that much should calm him down a little, but it doesn't. He gets anxious that he hadn't heard from the Boss or John in a while. He didn't want things to end up as he'd feared. If they did, Sebastian would only have himself to blame.
The Boss wasn't one for comforting… He had honestly most likely just woken John up.
If he hadn't, John still probably tossed and turned. Sebastian knew how annoyed the Boss would be if the kid kept making noise. That'swhat he was really worried about. The Boss was… Unpleasant, to say the very least. He didn't even know what he would do if the Boss had hurt the kid... It wasn't like Sebastian could just quit or kill the Boss. He didn't know what he could do, actually. He hoped he hadn't made a horrible mistake.
He got to the door, steeled himself for the worst. He'd only heard from the Boss mere hours ago, but that was more than enough time for things to go horribly wrong.
He walked in, quiet as possible, to see John on the couch. He was first relieved to see the kid in one piece. Then he was angry. Granted, he'd already been angry so it wasn't the kid's fault, but that John hadn't slept in the bed like Sebastian had told him to do irked him. He kicked the door shut with a little force.
"What did I tell you?" It had a bite to it that Sebastian regretted it before the door fully slammed.
John shot up, arms immediately coming to cover his face. "I- I'm s-sorry!"
Sebastian sighed. "Just me, kid." His anger fizzled out. It quickly turned to exhausted exasperation. He needed sleep. But first, he needed to have a word with the Boss about making the boy sleep on the couch.
"Where is he?"
"O-oh, he left about," John looked at the clock, unconsciously rubbing the sleep out of his eyes. "About an hour ago… he said he had work and that you'd be home soon. That's why I came out here to wait for you… Looks like I fell asleep, though…" John sheepishly rubbed the back of his neck.
"That's alright. I'm about to go do that myself. Why don't you text Sherlock and ask when it's safe for you to go back? I don't mind you staying here, but I'll just be sleeping."
"I'll do that…" he picked up his phone from the floor and sent a text.
Sebastian looked at the kid. Something had definitely happened. "So, did he behave himself?" John refused to look at him. That meant something, Sebastian was just too tired to pick up on it well enough to understand.
"…Yeah, we had fun…"
There it was. That hesitation. Sebastian didn't miss it this time. "John. I'm going to ask you something, and you're going to tell me the truth because I'm far too agitated and tired for half truths and lies." John tilted his head, waiting for the question. "Did he do anything inappropriate?"
"N-no! Well, he did almost throw your game system… But I stopped him, I promise." Hesitation, again.
"Alright, kid, let me rephrase. Did he touch you?"
A pause. John was thinking of a lie. Maybe. Sebastian couldn't focus. "We high-fived when we got the game to turn on… and he put his hand on my shoulder when he said goodnight…?"
An omission of the truth is still a lie, in Sebastian's opinion.
He wanted to raise his voice. Why couldn't the kid just say yes or no? Did he not trust Sebastian? It was too early for this and Sebastian needed to sleep. "John. I can tell you're lying. There was more. I'm getting more irritated. Just tell me. I need to know if I need to never let you see him again." John's eyes shot up.
"N-no! He, that is, I… I just had another nightmare and I think I woke him up… He came in and calmed me down… He sat beside me and I just felt really bad for waking him up."
Sebastian blinked. He knew John had a nightmare… the story was believable and checked out. John didn't seem to be lying and the kid definitely was more than embarrassed about his violent dreams to cause the shame on his face.
"Okay. Thank you, John. See, the truth's not so hard. I'm going to shower and go to sleep. If Sherlock needs you to stay here a while longer, wake me up at one and we can hang out a little. If you're going back, wake me up and let me walk you back or have Sherlock come get you. I really don't want you to walk home alone."
"O-okay…"
"Good man." Sebastian patted John's shoulder as he walked by. John flinched, but not as much as he might have. Maybe the Boss was a good influence.
Sebastian snorted. Yeah right.
John watched Sebastian walk into the bathroom. His phone dinged.
Not til 6. Still w/ Lestrade. After this body, he wants a statement from me.
-SH
"Oh… Okay…" John put his phone down dejectedly. Leo woke up and stretched, still limping slightly. "Hi." The cat plopped down in his lap, falling asleep again.
John sighed. He was bored . Nothing to do. No friends… John winced at the word. John refused to think about the encounter this morning. If he did, he wouldn't be able to stop. And, frankly, his thoughts scared him.
What if Mr. Brook was lying? Just trying to embarass John or make fun of him like all the other kids? Did it really mean they were friends? Was he just using John?
…Did John care?
He knew if he was being used, he should care… but maybe if he was useful enough, Mr. Brook would still at least pretend to be a friend.
John was broken from his thoughts when he heard Sebastian call out to him.
"John, I'm going to bed. You're welcome to do anything but dangerous things. Come get me straight away if you need me."
"Okay. Good night, 'Bastian." John didn't know where the name had come from… But he liked the way it made Sebastian snort back a laugh.
"Good morning, kid." The door shut behind the tall man and John was alone with his thoughts again.
He sat. And sat… and sat… finally, a half hour in and he couldn't sit still a moment longer. He got up and cleaned the living room. Then the kitchen… then the bathroom… he looked at the clock and was dismayed to see it read only and hour had gone by. His phone buzzed… John jumped up a little. Maybe Sherlock finally wanted him around.
But… it was a number he didn't recognise.
Do you miss me? Because I sure miss you.
John was confused. It was probably Mr. Brook… but John wanted to make sure.
I'm terribly sorry, who is this?
-JW
John didn't have to wait long for a response.
Johnny! I'm insulted. You didn't forget about me already, did you? I was there just this morning!
It was Mr. Brook.
Not that I mind… but how did you get my number?
-JW
I programmed it into your phone in case you ever wanted to call me for an impromptu lesson in friendship.
Oh… John guessed that made sense.
So. How's work?
-JW
Booorrriiinnngggg. Save me from it.
John laughed.
Just tell me what to do to help.
-JW
Tell me what you're wearing?
Why?
-JW
If you tell me, I can pretend you're here.
What if I sent a picture instead? It's hard to list things over text…
-JW
Even better.
John walked into the bathroom to stand in front of the full-length mirror. He took the picture and sent it.
Tsk, tsk. Wearing the same clothes as yesterday, naughty boy?
That gave John pause. That was a weird thing to say, he was sure of it.
I just don't have any spare clothes here… I'll get changed and have a shower right when I'm permitted to go back home.
-JW
Actually, I left some clothes there if you'd like to change into those. I'm sure they'll fit you. They're going to be a bit big though. I think I put the in the closet in the hallway next to Sebastian's room.
John looked. Sure enough, there were some clothes. John wanted to be out of the ones that smelled awful as soon as humanly possible. But… he couldn't help but think about how odd it was… why would he have put his clothes in there? Were they... Were they planted? Did Mr. Brook plan this? Well, John was grateful to be out of his old clothes either way.
You're a lifesaver! I didn't think I'd have lasted the whole time…
-JW
You can repay me by taking a picture of you in those.
John paused… he wasn't sure about sending so many pictures of himself to Mr. Brook… but he had to say thank you.
The clothes were quite big. The thin, short sleeve shirt hung off John's shoulder and the pants didn't stay on very well if he didn't hold them… but it was still a step up.
He took and sent this picture. It was a lot harder to get a good picture without both hands.
Little blurry. Try using both hands again maybe?
John did, the picture came out better… but his hip was slightly exposed. He couldn't fix it no matter how hard he tried. He sent the one that was least… revealing.
Nice. They look better on you than on me. You can keep them.
Oh, no! I could never!
-JW
John wanted to stop having to thank him…
You can make it up to me sometime. I've got a few ideas. Any plans for you today?
No. Just waiting for Sherlock to text me and tell me he's coming to get me…
Suuuper bored.
-JW
Why don't you go surprise him?
I don't think that would end well. I don't want him to get mad at me…
-JW
It'll be fine, I'm sure. You do miss your detective, don't you?
Well, yeah. Terribly so...
-JW
Then go see him!
You know what, you're right. I'm going to meet him and Lestrade at the Yard. Maybe I'll even get there before them.
-JW
Sounds great! I'll be here if you need me!
Thank you.
-JW
John wanted to stop saying that.
You can make it up to me.
And he hated that even more. He didn't want to make things up… he didn't like feeling obligated to reward someone for every little thing.
He got his phone and sent a text to Lestrade.
Let me know when you're on the way back to the Yard. Don't let Sherlock know I'm texting you, I want to surprise him.
-JW
He would go surprise Sherlock! He missed him. It felt like he hadn't seen him in days and it was really unnerving being away from him that long.
His phone pinged.
We're actually on the way there now.
-L
John jumped up. He quickly got as ready as he could, which wasn't hard because he didn't really have anything with him. He pulled on the hoodie, wincing at how bad it smelled. He'd forgotten… he hoped the Yard wouldn't make him do a drug test… that would be soembarrassing.
He picked Leo up and shoved the kitten back into the pocket. Leo huffed in annoyance. He hated the jacket… and John really couldn't blame him.
He left the cat things there, he would just come back for them later today, but he did grab a ziplock baggie full of cat food so the poor kitty didn't starve.
"Oh-" John had almost forgotten. He had to let Sebastian know he was leaving… but he didn't want to venture into the sleeping man's room, and he still didn't have Sebastian's number… so he found a pen and paper to write a short note.
' Leo and I left to meet Sherlock at the Yard. I hope it's okay that I left the majority of Leo's things here. It didn't seem practical to take them with us.
I hope you had a really good rest!
Don't worry about us!
-JW '
John left it right on the couch so Sebastian could easily find it when he woke up, then he headed out the door.
He was actually relatively close to New Scotland Yard… he just had to cut through the park and walk a little ways north. He could be there in less than half an hour.
He was caution as he walked, trying to look unassuming and blend in with the crowd. For no one being around this early, he thought he was doing a brilliant job… but someone grabbed his shoulder and turn him around into the mouth of an alley. John tried hard not to sigh. It was starting early today… He braced himself for a punch he was sure was coming.
"Johnny!" It was Mr. Brook… John tried to step back a little, but the grip was unrelenting.
"O-oh, uh- hullo, Mr. Brook…" John couldn't look at his face.
"I was just on my way home, care to join me?"
John thought about it… He had left a note for Sebastian and he'd only told Lestrade about him visiting… and he wouldn't find it that strange if John changed his mind… right?
Plus, if he went with Mr. Brook, maybe he could learn more… even if it made him uncomfortable, he'd learn really well. For Sherlock.
John went to tell the man this, but that's not what came out of his mouth.
"Uh...I- I was just going to see Sherlock… He's expecting me at any moment." John looked down. Why couldn't he say what he wanted to? Did he want to say that…?
Mr. Brook had an angry look flash across his face. "Do not lie to me." He grabbed John's chin and made him look up. How would the man even know? Wait… wasn't he the one who told John to go surprise Sherlock… Was… was this a set up?
"If you don't want me to teach you how to be a good friend, I guess Sherlock will get tired of you. Sooner rather than later, I'm afraid. Then he'll just find someone to replace you. Someone who's actually interesting. Someone willing to make themselves better."
John's eyes went wide in fear. "N-no…"
"Oh, yes ." The man's nails dug into the skin of John's face, forcing him to keep eye contact.
"I- no! P-please teach me… I'm sorry! I-"
"Shh. It's okay. I forgive you. But now you need to do something to make up for it."
"O-okay." John just wanted him to stop being mad. It was scary.
"But first, let's get to my place. Text the dear Detective Inspector you're no longer going to be there."
He had his hand on John's arm, dragging him in the opposite direction of the Yard. John didn't know how Mr. Brook knew about Lestrade, but it unnerved him even more. John sent the text any ways.
Hey, something came up… Not gonna make it. I don't think Leo could handle too much excitement today. Maybe some other time?
-JW
John didn't want to text Greg that… he wanted to call for help… but he wanted to be a good friend and didn't want Sherlock to hate him… He really didn't have a choice.
He let Mr. Brook drag him for a while before a question struck John.
"I-well, I'm sorry if this seems rude… but, well, what's your real name?" The man looked down at him. Amusement and anger playing tug of war in his eyes. Amusement won and John didn't know wether to be glad or terrified.
"'Sir' will do just fine for now. It'll help you get used to things."
He was acting weird. He hadn't been like this yesterday… he'd been sweet and nice…
Today, though, today was bad… John could be okay with that… for Sherlock. Lessons were supposed to be hard, right?
And it wasn't as if John all of the sudden didn't like the man… He still did. What he was concerned about was that he didn't know what to expect and, if John was being honest with himself, it intrigued him. He always knew what to expect from everyone else in his life… even Sherlock… but with- John hesitated on what to call the man, 'the man' seemed to fit just fine- the man he didn't. Not yet anyways.
John wondered to himself if he would be able to piece him together like he could with everyone else.
John let his thoughts drift to their favorite occupant. Sherlock.
It had taken him a while with Sherlock, but now John would wager he could explain Sherlock better than anyone besides maybe Mycroft. And that was only because he'd known Sherlock longer.
Sherlock lied to himself. Over his short years John learned that most people did. Even great detectives. John didn't look down on him or pity him for it… he still viewed the man the way he always did, but it was… comforting that John could say he knew more about something than Sherlock did, even if he'd never actually 'say' it.
John missed Sherlock. He wondered if maybe Sherlock missed him.
That was the one thing John couldn't read about Sherlock… what he thought of John. John knew the man liked him well enough to keep him around. Knew Sherlock at least cared a little about keeping John safe and happy… but he didn't know what Sherlock thought about him. Didn't know what Sherlock said to people who asked about John.
Didn't know if the man ever thought about him if he wasn't in the room…
It was infuriating. All of John's free time was spent thinking about Sherlock… He couldn't help it. He'd thought about the older man so much and it twisted his thoughts… He'd learned a bit about it in one of his books… he tried to think of the word.
"Propinquity." Yes, that was it. The higher the propinquity, the more chance you had for developing feelings for someone… when living with that someone, you're propinquity is almost as high as it can get-
"Closeness in proximity." John's head shot up to look at the man. He hadn't realized he'd said that out loud… "What is going on in that funny brain of yours that you need such a big boy word?" They were in front of a door John didn't remember walking to.
"I- that is-" He tried to find words.
"It's not attractive when you stutter."
"O-oh, s-sorry…" John winced. He didn't mean to, his mouth just couldn't spit the words out as fast as his brain was going. The door was opened and John had never found a darkened room more foreboding than this. He took a small step forward, only to be stopped. "Leave that fleabag outside." John looked down at Leo, who had been hissing and trying to claw at the man the whole time.
He stepped to the side and turned, bending down. He looked the cat in the eye. "Don't worry, buddy. I'll get you when we're all done and you and I can go see Sherlock. You two still haven't met, right?" Leo looked like he desperately wanted John not to leave. John could agree, but before he could overthink too long, a hand was on his shoulder.
"In."
John walked in. He couldn't just not .
Once inside, the lights were flipped on and it wasn't as bad. It was very plain. No personal effects. No pictures. Not even a bookshelf.
John can tell the man doesn't come here often. The thin layer of dust on the table makes it clear enough. When he does come here, it's not for long.
"Shoes and jacket off. Sit on the couch."
It was an order. John followed it. Back pole straight, eyes forward.
"Do you want to wait or start the lesson now?"
John thought… the sooner they started, the sooner they could finish… The sooner he could see Sherlock.
"How many lessons do you think before I'm ready, sir?" John said it slowly so he didn't stumble and make the man mad.
"I suppose we will have to see, won't we. I don't know how fast you learn yet. I'll let you know after this one."
John nodded. "If it's alright, can w-we start now, sir?" John flinched at the mistake, but the 'Sir' seemed to nullify it and keep the man pleased.
"Yes we can. To be a better friend, you first have to know how to be a good friend in the first place." John nodded. That made sense.
"I think that we should get you used to greeting and saying goodbye before we move on. You look like you'd never been kissed when I said goodbye this morning."
John looked down. "I-I hadn't, sir."
"That would explain it. Alright. Come here." John got up and walked over to him, standing a good two feet from him. It was as close as he felt okay with.
"Closer, Johnny. How can I say goodbye if you're all the way over there?"
John refused to look up as he shuffled forward.
" Much better." he purred and put his hand on the bottom of John's chin, tilting the boy's face up.
"Now, pretend like I'm leaving and you won't see me for a few days."
John nodded. He held his breath when the man leaned down, covering John's lips with his own. He held them together for nearly ten whole seconds.
When he pulled back, he looked feral.
"Good. Now I'm going to be gone for a week." He leaned back in, his lips parted. John held his together. When the older man licked his bottom lip, John whimpered and tried to step back. The hand on the back of his head didn't let him.
"See how I'm parting my lips, Johnny? You should be doing that too." His voice was so condescending and John hated it. He wasn't a baby. He could do it.
He shoved his face forward, waiting for the tongue at his bottom lip again. When he felt it, he opened his mouth a slight bit. Just enough to let the tongue in. The man pressed harder, then let go.
"Explore. Don't make me do all the work."
John didn't know how to 'explore'... what did that mean? He waited for the man's tongue again and this time, he pressed his own against it. It didn't seem 'adventurous'… but it was something, right? The man tasted like bitter coffee and metal… maybe almost like blood… John really didn't like it.
The man pulled back again. "Good. Very good. You're a natural, Johnny-boy."
John blushed and looked down, only to have the death grip on his chin force him to look up again.
"I gave you a compliment what do you say?"
John was confused. And scared. The man looked like he wanted to hit John. If he did that, John didn't know what he'd do.
"I-um. Th-thank you, sir."
" There's a good boy." John felt like his face was going to melf from how hot it was. He wasn't a bloody dog … but he kept his mouth shut.
"You can also just push your lips together with your friends and have it be short and sweet. It depends on which friend it it. Only in passing, really. I dislike kisses like this." He demonstrated. John liked this one… he didn't hold them together and it wasn't… messy.
John nodded. He was dazed and didn't know what was going to happen next.
"Let's move to the bed. I'm just sure you won't be able to stand for the next part."
John let his arm be grabbed and let himself be dragged to the room then pushed down to the bed laying on his back. The man crawled over John, holding his arms down. "Keep them there." John blinked that he acknowledged.
"I'm going to touch you. I'm sure you read about pulse points in your books, I'll show you how they can be used."
John didn't respond. He didn't know how to. In the next second there were hands all over him. It felt like all his skin was on fire… being touched everywhere.
His neck, his sides, his stomach… lower and lower. More and more uncomfortable.
"Take your shirt off." John froze even more. He… he couldn't . He didn't want the man to see all the marks on his skin… he couldn't.
"I-I don't thi-" The man popped back up to stare John down.
"I don't care what you think. If you want to learn, pay attention and do as I say." The man sat up, making John feel like he could finally breathe. "Or, if it's too much, we can just stop. I understand, it can be just down right scary. Don't worry. Let's just stop here for the day."
John tried to protest. He did… but his body wouldn't let him. It refused to tell the man he could continue. John wondered briefly if his body knew he couldn't keep going. John hoped so. It meant he wasn't as pathetic as he could be, right?
"I'll let you make it up to me tomorrow."
John wanted to cry. He didn't want to learn anymore, but… but he couldn't just give up because it was hard… right? He couldn't… Lessons were supposed to be hard. That's why they exist... Right?
It was clear that the lesson was over though. The man got up and left the room, leaving John on the bed, looking up at nothing.
John heard the front door slam. He let out a sob.
He wanted to go home… but he didn't even know where that was anymore. Sherlock was his home… where he was, John was happy… but Sherlock wouldn't let John around him right now… he wanted Sherlock so badly. After a few minutes of catching his breath, John drew his arms down over his chest and sat up. He just needed to get Leo, then he could go back to Sebastian's house.
He grabbed his phone. When he turned it on to see the time, he realized he had a text from nearly two hours ago.
Aw, sorry. It's okay, I understand! I'm sure Leo will be all better in a few days time! See you sometime soon, yeah?
-L
It was from Lestrade. It made John cry harder. He wished he would have sent an SOS message instead of a lie… but he wasn't really in danger… right…? Even if he was it was his own fault… he just let the man do those things…
John wanted someone. He didn't care who anymore. He just wanted anyone else on the planet besides the man.
He sent a text to Sherlock.
How's the case? Anything new? Have you eaten recently?
-JW
John waited for a response. He wanted Sherlock so much. He needed his detective right now. It felt like the world was caving in. Then, finally, a text alert.
In order: Busy, yes, no
-SH
Can I come home?
-JW
Not 2nite. More bodies. Not safe home. Gtg.
-SH
Oh… that was… not good at all.
Oh, okay… Hey, when we see each other again, I need to talk to you.
-JW
John just wanted Sherlock. He was currently a hysteric mess…
Prob. tmmrw. It can wait, yes?
-SH
Yeah. It can. But I have work tomorrow, so I won't be back until late.
-JW
John had actually almost forgotten. Too many things had been happening.
See you then, John.
-SH
John let out another sob and walked outside. He picked up Leo as he went. The cat, for all the things in the world, was trying to figure out why John was crying.
"I-it's okay… I'm fine… Let's just get back to Sebastian…" The cat nuzzled John's neck, trying to comfort him. John wished it would work…
As he was walking, stumbling all around, a hand grabbed his shoulder. John hadn't noticed it until it was pulling him through a door of a building. Really, John needed to stop walking alone. It never ever ended well. At this point though, John would welcome a punch or two to the face. Maybe it would knock some sense back into him.
" Where have you been?" Ice. Pure ice… it was just Mycroft. The building is nothing more than a gutted store that had no windows. John tried not to be upset.
"Wh-what do you-"
"I mean you vanished from sight of all the CCTV close to two and a half hours ago. After you entered the park, I couldn't see you at all. So, I'll ask again. Where were you?"
John started crying again. He couldn't tell Mycroft… of all people the universe sent him… It had to be the hardest on to talk to…
"I- that is-" John couldn't get any more out, he took a lot of deep breaths… but they didn't seem to help.
"John, are you alright?" The ice had melted a little.
"Y-yeah…" John tried to think of something to say, just to get Mycroft to leave… "Leo and I just got dragged into an alley… They threatened to cut him open… A-and I just- they just-" John broke off again.
"Oh, John." Mycroft's face hardened again, but his eyes softened. He had a pet once, too. John could tell. He also at least marginally bought the lie.
"Here, I'll take you to Sher-"
"No!" Mycroft raised an eyebrow. "I-I mean, Sherlock said I'm not allowed near him or home right now… The case is very dangerous right now… I have to go back to Sebastian's house…" And John was just a mess right now… he didn't want Sherlock to see him like this.
"I don't like you going there."
"Why…?" John was starting to piece things together. Just a little…
"He and I have a past that you don't need to know about. But if that's where you want to go, I'll take you there, yes?"
"Yes please…" John really didn't want to walk all the way there with his legs being all rubbery.
"Never a problem." Mycroft lead the way out to a car. John got in without a second thought. If there was one person in all the world he could trust with important things it was Mycroft… but John knew Mycroft wouldn't know what to do about the man… other than tell Sherlock, so John stayed quiet.
They sat in silence in the back of the black car. John was fine with it and the other party didn't seem to care.
They were at Sebastian's place in less than ten minutes. The car pulled up and as John reached for the handle Mycroft spoke.
"If you need me, you have my number. Remember, I know I seem removed- and I am- but I can listen to anything you need to say. Without telling Sherlock, if necessary."
"… Thank you, Myc…" John didn't use the nickname often, but it just seemed right. Mycroft's eyes gave away the gentleness of the tight-lipped smile he gave.
John got out and watched the car pull away.
He walked up to the door and felt immediately bad for lying to Mycroft… He shouldn't have done that.
He turned the doorknob and felt bad again. He hadn't even locked Sebastian's front door… he felt like a terrible human today…He took one look around and decided no one had broken in… it made him feel marginally better.
He found the note he'd written right where he left it, and crumpled it up. Now that he was back, the note was unnecessary.
He curled in on himself on the couch and waited in silence until one.
Sherlock was thinking again. He stood over the newest victim. A brunette. Same pattern in that there was no pattern. Spent their days cheering on a local rugby team as a self-proclaimed 'biggest fan'... 'Parks' had been carved into this one. He guessed it was a new clue… but he couldn't even begin to guess the next one… There just wasn't enough to go on. What was he supposed to do ? It was infuriating!
His phone rang again . He finally picked it up. His brother had been trying to call him for close to two hours. He was fed up . Could his brother not understand? There had been more . The case wasn't getting easier. It was getting harder. He didn't have time to listen to his brother yap about arbitrary things.
But he couldn't focus when his phone kept ringing . He pressed accept.
"What?" He snapped.
"Brother. I am beyond mad at you. Why you did not answer me before is beyond me."
"Did it occur to you that I'm busy ? That I-"
His brother cut him off. "If I call you, you need to answer. I don't care how busy you are. What I have to say is almost always more important. For example-"
"I have to go-"
"If you hang up that phone I'll come over there myself and explain it to you."
"Fine. What could be so important, brother mine."
"I'm glad you finally asked. John went missing two and a half hours ago. You wouldn't answer your damned phone, so I went to look for him."
Sherlock's brain barely kept hold of the phone. "Did you find him?"
"Yes. I did. I just dropped him off at Sebastian's. You need to talk to him. When I picked him up, he was crying. He said he got pulled off the street and some people were threatening to gut the cat."
"Well, how'd he get away? He must-"
"He was lying."
"No. John doesn't lie. Ever."
"You need to sit down and find out what's wrong. He won't talk to me… I highly doubt he's going to talk to anyone else. You need to make sure he is okay. Do you understand me?"
"Yes." He would. Right after he solved this case. The moment he solved it. He Just couldn't have John around right now. He had a suspicion John was a possible target… He couldn't risk John getting hurt.
"I'll see you, brother." The line went dead.
Sherlock wished John was there now. He worried constantly.
Why hadn't John told him when he'd sent the text that something had happened?
Sherlock couldn't help but feel like John didn't trust him anymore.
At exactly one, John woke Sebastian up, then left the man to wake up fully by himself. John sat back on the couch and waited for him.
The door opened again. "So, what did you do while I slept the good part of the day away?"
"Nothing much." John lied. He hated how more words than not were lies now.
"Okay, let me change and I'll make something to eat." John nodded but didn't turn around. He wasn't ready to answer any questions Sebastian might ask.
Not five minutes later, Sebastian was back, making jokes and laughing. John laughed along and added a comment here and there… but it just felt hollow… Like everything was fake. John supposed that wasn't very far from true.
John told Sebastian that Sherlock asked if he could stay one more night, Sebastian said it was no problem at all. He'd finished all his work yesterday. John was so relieved he almost started to tear up. Almost…
Sebastian made sandwiches. Peanut butter and extra jam for John, ham and mayonnaise for himself. John picked at it… but not much else.
"Alright. You've been moping around since I got up. What's up?"
"Nothing. I think I'm just tired…"
"That's a lie."
"I… Sebastian, I miss Sherlock. Don't get me wrong… I really like being here… but I haven't ever been away from Sherlock for this long… I don't like it."
Sebastian nodded. "You'll see him tomorrow if I have to drag him. Don't worry John. It has nothing to do with you, I promise."
"If you're sure…"
"I am. Now, let's watch a movie or go to the park."
"The park?" John hadn't gone to the park just to go in a long time… He wondered if Sebastian would play with him.
"Sure, let's get our shoes."
John nodded.
They walked to the park in quiet. John didn't know what to say and Sebastian seemed to be trying to figure out why John was acting odd.
When they were finally there, John looked around. There were very few people. They had the park to themselves.
"Sebastian… Will… Will you play tag with me…?"
"I'll win, but sure." Sebastian grinned, glad that John was starting to perk up.
"No you won't!" John put Leo on the ground so the poor kitty didn't get jostled. The cat seemed very reluctant to let John go, but when he saw Sebastian, he walked away without a second thought. John made a not of it.
John stood up and turned. He walked over and tagged Sebastian. "You're it!" John sprinted away from him. He stopped to catch his breath only to realize Sebastian was standing right there.
"Wh-" He was cut off.
"You're it now, kid!" Sebastian ran towards the playset.
John ran to catch up but just couldn't . Well, until Sebastian let him, but it wasn't fair. It went back and forth and back and forth."You're too good at this. It's not fair!"
"We could play hide and seek?"
"I have a feeling you're even better at that…" Sebastian's grin confirmed it.
The totally-unfair-tag-player checked his phone. "We've been playing for quite a while. We can leave now if you want."
"What time is it?"
"Half six."
"No way, really?" John pulled out his own phone. Sure enough, it was 6:34 pm…
John went to take off his- Sherlock's- hoodie, but stopped dead in his tracks. He was wearing the man's shirt still.
He didn't have any of his own clothes except the really gross ones. He had school tomorrow!
"You wouldn't happen to have any clothes I could borrow, would you…? We have school and I can't wear this." He gestured to the mock shirt. "It smells like drugs… and-" John thought quickly. "I'm sure my shirt smells like sweat."
"Maybe a shirt? None of my pants will fit you."
"That's okay. Nothing is wrong with my pants." If it sounded snappy, Sebastian didn't comment.
"Okay. When we get back, you hop into the shower and get clean. I'll wash your drug hoodie and find you a shirt and then I'll take a shower. Then I'll make dinner."
John's stomach growled. "Um…"
Sebastian just chuckled. "Okay. Well, dinner first, then."
John regretted not eating. He felt like he needed a shower so badly… and not just from running around with Sebastian.
They got home, ate dinner quickly (well, John did.) and went to the bathroom. Sebastian showed him how to turn the water on and where the towels were.
"You can use any of my soap. I don't care. Put your clothes outside the door when you get them off. I'll leave a nightshirt right in front of the door." With that Sebastian left him to it. John was glad… he wanted to be alone.
Well… no he didn't… but he didn't want anyone around when he started to take his clothes off. He made quick work of it, refusing to look at his reflection and put the clothes outside the door.
He had his shower, put on the night clothes and walked to the couch. He passed Sebastian on the way out. "I'm going to pass out… If I'm asleep by the time you get out, I'm sorry."
"No worries, kid. Good night."
John fell asleep before he could even hear Sebastian turn on the shower.
I know... and I'm sorry, don't worry. The next one is worse.
Xoxo,
~Miss Taken