221B Drabbles

by tsukinoblossom

My attempt at writing short stories in the 221-B format 221 words, last word starting with B . I'm really enjoying writing and I think these will encourage me to to do it more often and present an interesting challenge. Note: These stories are not sequential, or even necessarily in the same universe. Unless otherwise specified, each drabble is a unique, complete entity.

172. Balance

It's the third time today John's nodded off at his desk, and it's only lunch break. He'd been out with Sherlock until half four in the morning, chasing down some leads that apparently just couldn't wait. The clinic had called at seven, asking if John could fill in for another doctor who'd come down with the flu. It was short notice, but the money would come in handy.

Rubbing his eyes, John debates cancelling his date so he could go home and nap. He'd only been out with the girl once before and it hadn't been the most engaging date in the world, so he feels no particularly strong urge to follow up. The dire need for sleep is overpowering. He's staring blankly at his phone debating whether to call her when it vibrates in his hand, alerting him to a new text.

John, come home ASAP. Need assistance. Hope you weren't too attached to this particular jumper. - SH

He groans and lets his head fall into his hands for a moment. Blearily, he rubs his eyes before sitting up straight and calling to cancel his date tonight. So much for staying in and catching up on some desperately-needed sleep. John sighs a bit as he realises it's becoming increasingly difficult, keeping all these aspects of his life in balance.