A/N: Thank you to naturerocs for her continued support, hilarity, fellow nerdiness and inspiration to write, she is also my most faithful reviewer.
I promised myself I'd never do this, but is anyone else reading this?! Please send me a review, or constructive criticism or a random hello...
A quick disclaimer...No copyright infringements intended and all characters belong to their respective owners.
Enjoy!
Chapter 36 - Blood is thicker than Water
Dear Angie,
I don't know if Sherlock ever told you what happened, or if he told any details of his travels. I thought you might like to know.
All my love,
Percy.
It was Christmas Eve, and I still hadn't packed. I was putting off packing; I really, really didn't want to spend time with Jim's Dad or his side of the family. Spending four days being judged and insulted was not my idea of fun. I loved Jim, and would do anything for him, but this was
"Hello?" I answered, not recognising the number.
"Hello, Percy." Replied the baritone voice of Sherlock.
"Hello, big brother. How are you?" I said smiling. I was pleased to hear from him, I had been worrying as much as Angie.
"I…I need your help with something." He sounded hesitant.
"Anything, what do you need?" I answered quickly.
"I've run into a bit of trouble." He said. My heart skipped a beat for a second hoping I wasn't about to negotiate a hostage situation. I flipped the switch, stopped being fun loving Percy and got to business.
"What do you need? Money? A safe-house? Weapons?" I reeled off, thinking of the contacts I knew who could help and owed me favours.
"Yes." He replied, answering all three questions. "And a contact. Your…experience might be useful."
"Can you give me a name?" I asked. Depending on where he was would dictate hoe much help I could be.
"Gregor Hunter, organized crime leader in Romania." My heart sunk, I closed my eyes and took a deep breath. Why Sherlock? Why go after him? I thought.
"Right. Have you got somewhere safe to stay tonight? I can be there in the morning." I told him.
"I'll be fine." Replied Sherlock, sounding a little distant. He hadn't been sleeping rough head he?
"Are you sure? Hunter is particularly unpleasant." I warned.
"I've dealt with worse." He replied bitterly, obviously implying his dealings with Jim were worse than what he could face. He had no idea.
"Don't be arrogant, Sherlock, it will get you killed. You don't know these people like I do."
"It's true." I sighed at his tone. This was going to be an uphill struggle.
"Meet me at the train station, I'll be under the clock at 10am." I finished.
"I'll be there." He stated. We hung up on each other and I let out another sigh. How was I going to do this, Jim was going to go ballistic. I calmly walked upstairs and began to pack, I pulled out clothes that I knew Hunter would appreciate; just that thought alone made my stomach churn.
I pulled out my Vivienne Westwood suit, with a co-ordinating purple silk camisole and my Yves Saint Laurent heels; a long black lace ball gown, by Temperley London accompanied by my favourite Louboutin heels. I know I am going into detail about my clothes, but Gregor Hunter appreciates the finer things in life, and he would expect the best, especially from Moriarty's wife. I opened the safe and selected a beautiful diamond hairpiece, my diamond and onyx earrings and a sapphire and diamond necklace. It was the perfect armour for going into battle with a lecherous psychopathic gangster. I pulled a few normal clothes for during the day and travelling. I grabbed the essentials, such as pyjama trousers and Jim's university rugby shirt. I always wore it when I went away without him. I went into the bathroom and packed the necessary items and placed my wash bag on top of the case. I stared at the case, wondering if I was making the right decision. I was betraying Jim, he trusted me. I was torn, the man I love or my brother? I lost focus of the case and I stared into a space, a voice bought me crashing back into the real world.
"I'm sorry, really, really sorry. I can't come with you for Christmas." I said quietly. I couldn't face Jim, I kept packing my case.
"What?! Why not?!" He asked stunned.
"Family crisis." I said lamely. I knew he'd ask more questions, I just didn't know how to answer them.
"What is that supposed to mean?" Jim demanded.
"What do you think it means? I've got a wayward sibling that needs sorting out." I snapped back. Whenever Sherlock was mentioned we argued. I hated it.
"Oh, Sherlock, I should have known. He needs sorting out, alright. What mess is he dragging you into now?" Jim's voice was filled with disdain. He really hated Sherlock.
"Gregor Hunter." I answered simply.
"What?! Are you crazy?! Percy, what the hell are you thinking? You know how he is, especially with you! What did Sherlock do, deduce the living daylights out of him, and now Gregor's gonna kill him?" Shouted Jim, a trace of dark humour entering his words.
"No, Sherlock is going to kill Gregor. I'll be fine love. I can handle Gregor." I replied with a smile. I knew exactly how I was going to handle Gregor Hunter, if he tried to touch me again in any way that could be deemed inappropriate he would loose his manhood.
"Whoa, whoa, whoa, did I hear you right?" Laughed Jim. "Really? I thought he was on the side of the angels." He sniggers, obviously finding this more amusing than worrisome.
"Not when it comes to you. You know when your contact in Switzerland vanished...that was Sherlock." I said, I looked up to see Jim's expression darken. I stepped closer to Jim and gently placed my hand on his cheek I attempt to calcium down. "I have a theory, maybe even a proposition."
"Great, so now he's taking down my network." He snapped rolling his eyes. Surely he knew this would happen eventually?
"Yes, but I can see a pattern forming, it doesn't appear to be people of much importance and you have been trying to find a good reason to remove Hunter permanently?! Think of it this way, I can tip of Sherlock and give him names of people you want removing, he still gets to feel as though he's doing some good and you don't have to deal with the paperwork. It's a win win situation." I finished my little sales pitch and hoped he would accept it, it really would make life easier if he did.
"I suppose...besides, it might be a beneficial piece of information for when he gets back." He smirked. I looked at him witheringly.
"No, you don't tell him, that's the whole point. He does this, you don't have to deal with incompetents and he can feel like he's won a point for the good guys. Everyone wins. I'm trying to be diplomatic." I huffed with frustration. Their feud was tiresome.
"Fine. Well, you're doing a very good job at it. It is a good idea. But thanks for abandoning me to deal with my Dad." He sighed. His words filled me with guilt. I pulled I'm close and kissed him.
"I'm sorry, I won't lie, I'd rather spend fours day with Gregor Hunter than your Dad, but I also have to deal with Sherlock in a confined space. I know it's Christmas, but I have to help him. He's obviously sleeping rough and needs so help. I'll meet you in Dublin, I promise, nothing will keep me away." I pushed every ounce on sincerity into my words. I wouldn't leave him twice. I wanted to spend time with him not chasing my brother round Eastern Europe.
"Fine. Good luck." He said dejectedly. I sighed and spoke before he left.
"One other thing..." I trailed off.
"What?"
"If you hear rumours I'm having an affair, I'm not, but to make Hunter believe what I'm up to Sherlock is going to have to act as my lover. The thought is horrifying, but it will appear as though you're being undermined, Hunter dislikes you because I chose you over him, that and he's an idiot." I finished and watched for Jim's reaction, it wasn't what I was expecting. He burst out laughing.
"That...is...gold." He caught my look of surprise mixed with mild irritation. "Sorry, but that is rich. That's hilarious." He started laughing again, and I couldn't help it but I joined in.
"It is kind of funny isn't it?!" We stopped laughing to catch our breath and I realised that I'd just given Jim the worst ammunition to torment Sherlock with.
"You're going to make Sherlock's life really difficult aren't you?! I mean more difficult..." Jim nodded and chuckles again.
"Oh, I would love to see Sherlock's face when you say that. Do you think you could take a picture for me?" I gently elbowed him and rolled my eyes at his request.
"I am not taking a picture. Although I am taking a few things just to remind him who I belong to." I pulled out his rugby shirt and received a big grin. I smirked as I refolded it.
"Alright, well just be careful." He said calmly. He would worry endlessly for the next four days, but I loved him for not trying to convince me to not go.
"I'm always careful." I smiled. We had both done stupid things, but generally we did stay as safe as possible knowing that losing the other would destroy us.
"I know." Jim took my hand and pulled me onto our bed, he wrapped his arm round me. I nuzzled into him, my head resting in the crook of his neck. This was my favourite place to be.
"You're not too mad at me are you? I know the timing is dreadful, but that's Sherlock." I asked. I didn't want us to part on bad terms.
"Nah, I'm fine. Maybe it's for the best anyway, you won't be around to face Dad when I break the news to him." He sighed. I winced at the mention of his Father.
"Yeah you're probably right. What do you think he might do?"
"He won't be able to do much, Mum will keep him calm. He'll just get mad, probably, and...I don't want you to be worried. I'll be fine. You just need to focus on that." He answered quietly. I didn't know the full extent of what his Father had done to him as a child, but it wasn't pleasant. I think it bordered on abuse. How anyone could ever lay a finger on a child I didn't know. Jim never spoke about it and I wouldn't push the issue.
"Your Mum will keep him calm, what about the rest of the family?" I asked. His Dad hated me, but the rest of the family were just as bad, they loathed me for some reason. Everyone except his Mother, but she was the loveliest woman.
"I'll be fine. I can handle the most dangerous men in the world. I am one of the most dangerous men in the world. I can handle them. They're all talk, nothing more." He was building up his armour; facing his family always upset him. I smiled up at him and gently kissed his cheek.
"Okay, I trust you. Phone me if you need to talk, and try not to kill anyone. Also, remember, no matter what they say I love you more than anything in the world."
"I know. Try not to get too carried away down there." He said, trying not to laugh again and failing.
"You are evil, did you know that?! This is going to be so awkward." I moaned.
"Of course I knew that." He smirked. I rolled my eyes with again. "It is funny, though. You sure you couldn't take a video of his reaction?" He asked again. I tired to push him off the bed for that comment.
"I'm not videoing anything. You two are going to be the death of me." I sighed.
"Sorry." He apologised, giving me the full power of his very cute puppy dog eyes.
"It's fine, if it makes you feel better I am going to break into 221b tonight to steal some stuff for Sherlock. You're a very bad influence on me, but I wouldn't change you."
"You're gonna break into Angie's flat?" He asked surprised.
"Yeah, at about 3am." It was the perfect time, John would be at work, he was on 'lates' and Angie slept like the dead. Also I was a bit sneaky when it came to breaking and entering.
"Doesn't she have a dog?"
"Yeah, but Toby is the sweetest dog ever and won't bite me. Also the snake has now left the flat, so I'll be fine." I grinned; Toby was a great dog just not guard dog material. I was so glad the snake was gone.
"Alright." Jim said absently, he was giving me a strange look. I couldn't work out if it was admiration, worry or confusion. It was possibly a combination of all three.
"What's that look for?"
"Just kind of funny you have to break in like that. Or, let me guess, she doesn't know what Sherlock's doing?"
"Nope, I've been sworn to secrecy, Angie shouldn't know anything. You know I've done much worse than breaking into a flat to steal someone's clothes for them."
"Yeah, I know." He nodded, he was internally freaking out.
"You've got that 'I'm worried, but I'm trying to hide it' expression." I prompted.
"I'm always worried about you when we're apart, but I know you'll be fine." He replied. His worry really made me feel special, however much I complained, knowing he cared and would be thinking about me made the short time apart worth it.
"I'll text you as soon as I land in Bucharest and I'll keep you posted on what's happening." I promised, it was only for he knew what was going on.
"Alright." He nodded. I looked at him, he was really resisting the urge to lock me away and keep me safe from the world. I sat up and reversed our earlier position; I wrapped my arm round him and had him rest his head OMG chest. I stroked his hair and let myself enjoy a moment of quiet and calm.
Way lay just enjoy each other's company for hours. I could tell Jim had fallen asleep as his breathing had evened out, I looked at the clock and it was 1:30am. I gently removed myself from Jim's hold and went into the bathroom; I took a quick shower and changed. I grabbed my suitcase and handbag and headed downstairs. I left Jim a note.
It was quarter to three, I slipped out of the house as silently as possible and jogged over to 221b, I took a second to get my heart rate under control, it was a far as I could manage still, it was frustrating. I picked the lock of the front door and snuck upstairs, avoiding the squeaky fifth step. I went into Sherlock's room; it hadn't been touched apart for the addition of two boxes filled with his science equipment. I looked round his room, and my eyes landed on his blue dressing gown, he would appreciate that. I pulled out a couple shirts and suits for him, a spare pair of shoes and the two books by his bed. I already had a new lot of bathroom supplies for him. I packed the neatly into my case and crept back downstairs. As I reached the street I checked my watch, it was three thirty; perfect. I hailed a cab and told the cabbie, Heathrow Airport, and was on my way.
I checked in, printed my ticket and grabbed a cup of herbal tea; caffeine was still off the menu, before my flight was called to board. Everything ran on time and was very easy. I took a nap during the two-hour flight and felt refreshed as we landed. I arrived in Bucharest, Romania at 9:30 am. I was at the train station with five minutes to spare.
I spotted Sherlock and waved to him. He looked at me walked towards my hiding spot. "Sherlock, over here."
"Hello." I smiled at him and quickly got to business. "I've got us a place to stay, we have to pretend to be husband and wife. Follow my lead." I said, taking his left-hand glove off and placing a plain gold ring on his finger, the lie had to be buried in truth.
"Oh god…" Uttered Sherlock with a frown and a deep sigh. I frowned back and said coldly.
"Yes, I'm thrilled by the idea as well. I'm risking my neck for you, just deal with it."
"Fine." Sighed Sherlock. He offered me his arm and together we walked into the city. I lead the way having been here more than once.
"The owner of the inn we're staying at knows me, she owes me a favour. I saved her son from being executed by Hunter. She doesn't know of my connection to Jim, so don't mention him. I'll explain more when we get there." I said quietly. To an outsider we looked like a young couple in love. I repressed a shudder at the thought.
"Alright." Nodded Sherlock.
We arrived at the inn; I greeted Magda, the owner, warmly. Introduced Sherlock and we were shown to our room. One bed, of course, I was so glad I wasn't bothered about sleeping for a couple of days. Sherlock passed as the charming husband, newlyweds on a tour of Europe. I was impressed how easily he created the lie. As soon as the door was shut and locked I turned to face Sherlock.
"Right, money, there is £20,000 in cash, you can stay here for the next two weeks. We'll…I'll, collect your gun in the morning." I instructed. Sherlock nodded, his compliance surprised me, and put the money into the inside pocket of his jacket. He looked a mess.
"Alright." He glanced at me and swallowed before saying. "Thank you." I nodded and sat on the bed next to him.
"What happened? You were heading to Switzerland last time we spoke." I asked gently.
"I never said that." He defended, tensing up.
"I told you where to go. How did you end up here in this mess?" I asked with a raised eyebrow.
"I got your hint. I finished there." He smirked. I frowned at his arrogance and sighed, he was trying to irritate me.
"Sherlock, I can't help you if you don't tell me what's going on." He looked at me for a minute before speaking.
"I'm cleaning up the spider web."
"Yes, I gathered that. I have a rather grumpy husband at home." I said nodding and spinning another lie, Jim was perfectly happy to let Sherlock do his dirty work, it kept them both busy and stopped them both trying to kill each other.
"Mm. Too bad." He said coolly. I rolled my eyes.
"You two and your petty feud." I sat back and crossed my arms. "What do you know about Gregor Hunter?"
"He's the top crime boss here in Romania, has numerous connections around the world, helps 'arrange' many elections and government appointments, mainly to keep his operations going. Sometimes that involves certain people having 'accidents'. He has a number of small businesses under his control in exchange for their safety, which I'm sure leads to incidents, like with the innkeeper's son." He reeled off. He looked at me. "Anything I'm missing?" he asked.
"No, not really. He is a very possessive man. He likes his money and his exclusivity. He's a womanizer. He parties hard. He has no concept of mercy. He causes more problems than he's worth." I told him Hunter's more attractive qualities.
"I take it you know all this from experience?" He asked with a slightly disgusted tone. I shrugged.
"I've met him a couple times. I despise the man. If he mysteriously vanishes, I won't mind, to be honest he's lucky to be alive." Sherlock looked at me, I could almost hear the cogs and connections whirring in his head.
"Would you say you're on reasonably good terms with him?" Asked Sherlock.
"I should be, it's Jim he's irritated. He wants me to be his mistress." I said bleakly. I thought back to the last time I'd been in close proximity to Gregor Hunter, his wandering hands and his proposition for my services and the opportunities I could have being his mistress. I felt sick thinking about it. Sherlock's voice brought me out of my memories.
"Do you think you could get us inside?" I nodded.
"Yeah, that's not the hard bit, it's getting out...alive." I muttered darkly. He shrugged.
"Well, I'm used to that." His arrogance knew no bounds and it was grating on my nerves.
"You don't understand, this won't be messing around in London because you're bored. This will be a bullet in your skull and your heart ripped out. Literally. He didn't get called Hunter for nothing." I said, my voice rising.
"Your dear Jim is considered the most dangerous man in the world, right?" He asked snidely.
"Jim gets bored and likes to play. You survived him so you can survive anything. I've heard it all before, brother dearest." I spat scathingly. At least Jim knew when to shut-up.
"Then stop bringing it up if you know what my answer is going to be."
"You have to understand who you are dealing with. I'm trying to help you, Sherlock." He sighed and looked away. I looked at him.
"Why do you think Jim married me?"
"I honestly don't have the faintest idea." I resisted rolling my eyes.
"I can read people like you can. People tell me things, Mycroft taught me to spy. I am unforgiving and have no problem with people dying to protect those I love. These criminals don't like arrogance, they like subtlety. I am not afraid to get my hands dirty. You are too worried about being intelligent; it doesn't work like that in the real criminal world. Jim takes it easy on you."
"I'm sure. I have actually dealt with other criminals before." Scoffed Sherlock. I stared at him with disbelief.
"My god, your arrogance knows no bounds. Shall I go home?!"
"I'm just saying that I know how to deal with these criminals, and I don't need you to lecture me on how to deal with them." He answered frowning.
"Then you just want my money, my knowledge of Jim's criminal network, my personal relationship with these criminals. Anything else? I could be enjoying Christmas dinner in Ireland now, not be in this crappy hotel with you." I snapped. I was trying to help him, was it really that hard for him to be a tiny bit gracious.
"Fine, leave then." He shrugged, and looked at me. "But just so you know, the reason I called you and not somebody else is because I trust you and I knew you would help me. But if you want to go and have a dull Christmas dinner, go ahead, have a nice trip." He sat down and waited for me to leave. I sighed and shook my head.
"How can I leave you here alone? You're my brother, and I love you. Yes, I said it, don't roll your eyes at me." He smirked at my words. "Of course I'll help you, but I need you to listen and understand. I want you to come back alive, I'm just trying to help you. Plus, you haven't met my in-laws, anything is better than being with them." I admitted.
"Well, thank you. So what's our next move?" Smiled Sherlock, he looked pleased with himself.
"I'll go and see Gregor in the morning and persuade him that he needs you. Hopefully, tomorrow night you can meet him. I'll try and get you into dinner with him, that way you can see his inner circle. If you want to kill him, you're going to have to get close, get him to trust you. I can only stay four more days, I have to be in Dublin on the 29th." I instructed. Nothing was stopping me from spending time with my husband and friends, it sounds selfish, but being able to just be people and not the personas that we assume is refreshing.
"Sounds good. Will you be alright going by yourself?" He asked, a hint of concern edging his voice. I smiled.
"Yes, I'll be fine, I promise. Sometimes it's good to have a reputation that precedes you."
"Alright." He answered, glancing at me. I don't think he would ever get used to the fact I was married to his arch nemesis. I glanced at him nervously.
"This might be an odd request, but ignore anything you see me do, or say. I won't necessarily be myself." I had to warn him, there were situations when I would just turn a blind eye. I had to behave accordingly. Sherlock looked at me, and nodded, understanding what I was implying.
We sat in silence for a while, until it became awkward. It was hard knowing what to say. Sherlock looked up, after taking care of something over his phone. He smirked at his phone and looked at me.
"So, how is life back home?" He asked. I was stunned he broke the silence.
"Same as normal. I've finished rehab. Angie is still livid with you." I replied bluntly. Sherlock frowned at my words, obviously hurt but suppressing the emotion.
"Other than that, is she doing alright?" I smiled.
"She's fine. How have you been, really?" I asked. He didn't look too bad, just tired. He looked like he needed looking after. He shrugged before saying:
"Fine."
"Good."
Apparently that was all the emotion I was getting for the day. Sadly, another awkward silence fell over them for a few minutes, which honestly felt like hours. Then a thought struck me. I smiled.
"So...I've been getting to know your...our mother. She's nice."
"Yes. She's been lonely since our father died." He nodded. Still giving nothing away. I looked at him.
"No one will tell me about him, what was he like?" I asked. I really was curious about him. No one mentioned him. I still didn't understand why he didn't want me. I glanced and saw Sherlock's frown he shrugged.
"He was cold, distant, work-oriented, old fashioned. Not exactly a family man. Mycroft's taken after him a bit, at least he has a sense of humour." I frowned. That didn't help at all. Before I could stop myself, I blurted:
"Why do you think he didn't want me?" I looked up and shook my head. "Sorry, you don't have to answer that." Sherlock cast me an odd look.
"I don't know. I didn't exactly see him that much. He was always off at work or I was off at boarding school, and when we were both home, he locked himself in his study and I did my best to avoid him." His recollection was hollow. He must have had such a lonely childhood. At least I knew I was loved and cherished. Mum and Dad always played with me and then I met Angie.
I wish I'd known you when I was growing up. Mycroft was there for birthdays and stuff like that, but he was always away." I said. I really do wish I had known and been part of my biological family. Sherlock nodded in response.
"You were a lonely child, weren't you?" I said. Sherlock looked up a little startled by my words. I felt awful.
"I shouldn't have asked that."
"No, it's fine. I usually kept to myself. Not many other children who weren't dull and boring."
"I know what you mean. They just didn't get anything quickly enough, or would think you strange because you knew they were lying or that the teacher was drunk." I nodded. It was infuriating. Angie really was a blessing; she just accepted my quirks and kept going. Sherlock smirked.
"True, or that they were having an affair with the headmaster. Got into quite a bit of trouble with that." This made me laugh recalling a similar incident. I was only twelve, might have been a bit unsure at what I caught the two adults doing and then told the whole school. Apparently my lies and slander were unacceptable behaviour. I was suspended for two weeks. It made no difference in my education.
"I managed to get suspended for something similar. It was the chief examiner and the head of Science." Sherlock smirked at my words.
"They're so dull, aren't they, ordinary people?"
"Yeah...although, some ordinary people can be extraordinary." I shrugged. I thought of Angie, but she'd always been extraordinary.
"Well, then they're not all that ordinary."
"I mean they can be extraordinary in the right situation, because they are caring or heroic. We aren't heroes, we're too clever for our own good and tread in that grey are of good and bad."
"I tried to explain that to John on numerous occasions." Agreed Sherlock.
"He is an extraordinary person, which is why we like him." I smiled.
"Have you ever wondered what life would've been like if we grew up together, you, Mycroft and I?" I asked. This may see like a random question, but I grew up with Angie and to an extent John. I had been wondering lately what it would've been like growing up with my brothers.
"It would have been very interesting." He shrugged. I frowned, I wasn't sure about that response, what did that mean?!
"Right. Perhaps we should get some rest, it'll be a busy day tomorrow." I snapped.
"Go ahead. I won't bother you." He waved of my offer of sleep.
"I slept last night, I'll be fine for a few days." I shrugged. I was going to read and then zone out, I knew I wouldn't sleep.
I may not need to sleep, but I was going to be comfortable. I grabbed my pyjamas and wash bag and headed into the bathroom. I took off my make-up and washed my face. I changed and started the long task of brushing my hair; it had got a bit knotted from the plane. I cleaned my teeth and folded my clothes into a neat pile. I felt better. I put my clothes into my case, pulled out my copy of Dracula and put my glasses on. I flopped onto the bed and looked at Sherlock.
"Bathroom is all yours if you want it." I prompted.
"I'm fine." He brushed off. I rolled my eyes and looked up.
"You can't be comfortable in your suit?!"
"I took my jacket off." He replied. I raised an eyebrow as I replied dryly.
"Wow, you rebel you."
"I didn't exactly bring that much when I left. Clothes would have just taken up necessary space." He sighed.
I put my book down and stood up, I walked over to my case and took some clothes out of her suitcase and handed them to him.
"Good job you have a loving sister, here are some spare clothes." He didn't say anything, I didn't expect him to, but I could tell he was surprised and I think grateful; although, he did have a mildly perturbed expression.
"What is it?" I asked.
"Uh, nothing. How did you get my dressing gown?"
"I'm just that good." I smirked and shrugged. I frowned as he glanced at me again. "Seriously, it's creepy, what are you staring at?!"
"Nothing. You've been sneaking around my flat, then?" He asked. I smiled.
"I know more about your flat than you do, I spend more time there." I frowned. "Well, not at the moment because of the snake." I shuddered thinking of Russ's python. Sherlock looked up.
"Snake?!" He frowned. "Please tell me that's not a metaphor for a man."
"No, I meant the disgusting reptile. Angie's cousin keeps a huge snake as a pet." He frowned at my words. I ignored him and let him process what ever he was taking about. After about fifteen minutes of him throwing me odd looks I'd had enough.
"Sherlock, stop looking at me weirdly, what is it?"
"Nothing." He replied shaking his head.
"Just tell me. It's unnerving." I sighed.
"Well, it's a bit unnerving to see your sister wearing a shirt with Moriarty's name on it." I looked down at my shirt and laughed a little.
"That's it?! I'm married to him, Sherlock. Legally, I'm a Moriarty, too." He frowned at me. I frowned back.
"Get used to it, it's not going to change, I always wear his shirt when we're apart, it's comforting. I know you don't understand why, or how, but I love him and I miss him."
"Oh god. Sentiment." Moaned Sherlock, as he rolled his eyes.
"He's my husband, of course there's sentiment. You and Mycroft actually drive me insane with your lack of feelings."
Sherlock shook his head and went back to his book.
"Wonderful, the silent treatment." I replied sarcastically, staring at him. Why did he have to be so difficult all the time?
"I don't have anything to say."
"Now I understand why Angie gets so frustrated." I sighed. I said it to try and get a rise out of him but it failed. He just looked at me.
"If you're not going to talk to me, I'd like to read my book." I said pointedly. He looked at me for a moment longer before picking up his own book.
"Fine."
The rest of the night was filled with irritated tension. I finished Dracula and started texting Jim, that managed to keep me somewhat occupied. I logged into Facebook and let Angie know where I was through my status update. I hoped she wasn't on her own. At eight, I got up and grabbed my suit and went to shower and dress. I spent time building up my 'business' persona and came out of the bathroom ready to take on the world.
"Morning."
"Hello." Sherlock nodded, not looking up.
"I set up a meeting with Hunter before I got here. I'll talk to him, collect your gun from my contact. I should be back by lunchtime."
"Mm, good." He nodded again.
"Can you pass me my jacket, please?" I asked as I grabbed my heels. Joy, heels and a snowy Romania, I was going to break my neck. Sherlock stood up and grabbed my jacket off the table and handed it to me. He was still acting like a spoilt brat, but I just ignored it. I had bigger things to worry about.
"Here."
"You're wearing that?" He asked, he seemed to have just noticed what I was wearing. I looked at him.
"Yes, why?"
"Nothing." He shook his head.
"Just answer the question, Sherlock. I'm not in the mood for your games.". I frowned at him and sighed.
"Nothing. It just...brings back some memories." He frowned back.
"Just spill it, Sherlock. I don't need you brooding on me all day. You need to focus." He sighed.
"It's just that your dress reminds me of..." He scowled. "The Woman, that woman." I looked at him confused. "Which wom..." I frowned as I realised who he was talking about. "Oh, you know Miss Adler. God, I hate her." I spat.
We stood there awkwardly for a minute, until I grabbed my clutch bag. "After that fond recollection, I need to leave."
"Right. Don't want to be late." Nodded Sherlock. I glanced at him and left.
I left our hotel and walked the short distance to the café that Hunter wanted to meet at. He always did his special meetings is a public place his 'firm' owned.
"Persephone Moriarty, what a pleasant surprise." He greeted.
"Gregor, you look well."
"I am. What brings you to my fine city?"
"Business and pleasure." I replied.
"Do tell me more." He asked.
"I have a proposition for you, one I think you will like." I smiled flirtatiously.
"This sounds promising."
"I know someone who could help you find any spy, any traitor, liar or thief. They outwitted Moriarty. He took my interest. I thought you might like to meet?"
"This is most interesting. Why would you bring me someone who could beat your husband?"
"You two have a score to settle. I thought you might like to have the edge on the competition. If not, I know plenty of other people who are in need of him." I made to stand, knowing that the quicker I withdrew my offer, the more he would want it.
"Don't be hasty young one, I will meet with him. I am holding a dinner tonight, bring him and I will see if he is worth my hospitality, if not, I'll kill him." He threatened. I had to make sure Sherlock didn't get killed.
"A wise choice, but he is hard to kill, James couldn't do it, and you'd ruin my fun." I pouted.
"Fun?" He enquired.
"I did say I was here for business and pleasure, my new toy is also my lover." I smiled.
"You have changed dearest, I like it. Come to dinner, and we'll meet your new plaything."
"Thank you darling, you always have been so welcoming. Your city looks so beautiful in the snow."
"Thank you. Until tonight."
"I look forward to it." I stood and kissed Gregor's cheek. As I turned to leave I swayed my hips, I knew he would watch my every step until I left.
When I was out of sight of the café I sighed. We were in for dinner, that was no guarantee that Hunter would accept Sherlock, but it was a start. I headed to my contact's dingy flat and collected Sherlock's gun. I put into my handbag and made my way to the tailor. I had e-mailed them last night, offering triple the price if they could have it finished and altered for today. They did. I happily handed them the money in cash and left a sizeable tip. Money could do wonders when you knew how to use it. I made my way back to the hotel to Sherlock the good news.
"Sherlock? I'm back." I called as I entered our room. Sherlock actually looked relaxed, he was sitting up on the bed emerged in his book. I felt bad for interrupting him, but he would want to know what was exchanged. He looked up as I walked in.
"Well? How did it go?"
"Well, perhaps a little too well. You're in for dinner." I nodded.
"Good.". He nodded and went back to his book. I was stunned; I looked at him for a minute.
"That's it?!" I exclaimed.
"What else is there? Oh." He almost rolled his eyes. "Thank you."
I rolled her eyes at him and handed him a gun and a black dinner jacket, with shirt, bow tie and matching trousers. "Here, your new toy and a dinner jacket for tonight."
"Oh, formal. Dull." He looked at the suit scathingly and put the gun on the table.
"Do you want into his inner circle or not?"
"Fine." Sherlock sighed.
"It's like talking to a corpse. We have to leave at 7. Be ready."
"Alright." He nodded and went back to his book. I stared at him.
"Why Jim likes playing with you, I'll never know. I'm going out, I'll be back later."
"Out where?" Sherlock looked up confused.
"Just out and away from you." I shouted. I turned and slammed the door behind me. I was so frustrate deity his childish antics. I was trying to help him. He didn't seem to understand that if we messed this up we would both be dead. If he wanted to do this alone, what did he call me? I walked briskly. After ten minutes I head Sherlock call my name.
"Percy, wait."
I turned around and frowned at him as he stood in front of me. He glanced at me.
"I'm...sorry. I'm not very sociable. Never have been. I guess Angie's lessons in being kind and polite haven't done much good." He was actually apologising to me. I felt my anger fade. I side.
"I understand, Sherlock, I do, but I'm your little sister. I know we only met in the summer, but I thought we were close, but it hurts every time you push me away. How do you think Angie feels when you push her away?"
"I know. It's just that my whole life I've kept my emotions hidden away, from everyone, even those I'm close to. It's a hard habit to break." I smiled a little at him.
"I'll never hate you or mock you for showing that you care. You'd be amazed, when Mycroft actually shows emotion; he's so kind and gentle. Just remember, you're not alone anymore, never again." I told him sincerely. He glanced at me and nodded.
"Thank you."
"Anytime. And thank you." I smiled.
"For what?" He asked confused.
"For trusting me, for letting me in."
"Well, you are my sister, so..." He shrugged. I knew what he was saying. Something caught my eye just behind Sherlock, my smile faded. I had to hide, quickly.
"I need to hide. Moran, he's here. He cannot see me." I said quickly. Sherlock turned around and frowned as I hid behind a wall.
"What? What is he doing here?"
"I don't know. If he sees me, he'll kill me. Just keep walking, if he speaks to you just go with it. I'll find you later." I said and ducked into an alleyway.
I wove through various streets, I needed to keep moving, and I didn't wait for his reply. I found myself in the central par too the city, I let my self get lost in the crowd. I looked at my watch; I'd been gone fifteen minutes. I circled back to the area where out hotel was, I spotted Sherlock just as Moran sauntered away. What was he doing here? This did not bode well. If he was helping Hunter he couldn't do anything to me, so I would be relatively safe.
"He's gone. That was too close for comfort."
"That is an understatement." He agreed, he avoided looking at me and started walking back to the hotel. I frowned and followed him.
"I'm sorry, I had no idea he'd be here." Sherlock didn't say anything, he just walked quickly to the hotel, seeing Magda at the front desk, he grabbed my hand, but dropped as soon as we entered the lift. We got back to our room and he went to the window, he just stared out of it. Suddenly he turned and asked:
"Have you worked with him before?" I looked at him confused.
"What do you mean worked with? He's Jim's hit-man. I've known him for years, sadly." Sherlock shrugged nonchalantly.
"He mentioned something about work you've done." I frowned, still confused.
"Work? I help Jim sometimes...I don't understand." I looked at him, his shoulders were tense, and he was worrying about something.
"Sherlock, what is it? What did Moran say?"
"I don't know he just made it sound like you were worse than Jim." He frowned. I looked away, how do I explain something I'm not allowed to tell? I wasn't necessarily worse, just the same.
"We've all done things we're not proud of. I was in the thick of this world long before I met James Moriarty." I sighed. "Ask Mycroft if you want to know, it's all on record. Sometimes the past doesn't get erased, no matter whom you know."
Sherlock shrugged.
"Well, he also said he was wearing Angie down to get her back, which of course isn't true." He frowned and glanced at me when I didn't say anything. "Right?" He asked and began pacing. I looked up at the tone of his voice he was seeking reassurance.
"He will do anything to get her back, but trust Angie, she knows what she wants." I said gently, trying to explain that Moran will stop at nothing, but Angie loved him not Moran.
"I saw the look in her eye when she heard his name." Pushed Sherlock.
"She hates him." I clarified.
"Then why was she with him to begin with back then?"
"She didn't know what he did. I wasn't there, Sherlock, I was only 14 when they met, I was stuck in Wales." I snapped back. I understood he was worried and I think upset, but I didn't know the gory details of their relationship, I was stuck at school being bullied and hating every moment of my existence.
"Well, he's back now." Sherlock scowled.
"She's changed." I said coldly.
"How much do people really change?" Argued Sherlock.
"You don't believe me, do you?" I realised, he really was very insecure about his relationship with Angie. He didn't understand the emotions. I wanted to comfort him. Sherlock stopped his pacing and shook his head.
"I don't know. Whenever the subject about him came up, Angie would look scared, more scared than I've ever seen her. What if that's because she knows that he's capable of changing her mind? He's worked with Moriarty, I'm sure he's an expert in mind games."
"Sebastian Moran knows how to ruin your life and holds a grudge for life. Angie's scared for good reason. I'm terrified of him. I lost the most important thing in my life to him, he has no remorse." I said, a frown marring my features. Memories of losing the baby came flooding back. Everything about Moran made me so angry, he'd stolen something so precious and innocent. I would be nearly five months pregnant by now, Jim and I would be planning our family, our lives together, instead we moved on and pretended like it never happened.
"So either way, Angie's in trouble." Stated Sherlock. I took a second to register he'd spoken.
"No, Angie's safe, he'll never hurt her. He loves her in his own twisted way."
"Oh, that's comforting." Frowned Sherlock.
"I'm not in a comforting mood."
"Oh, so you're alright with your best friend being with that man?" He spat.
"I had and have no control over it. I can't really judge her, can I?!" I defended. I could judge Angie all I like, but it would beyond hypocritical.
"Fine. What does it matter to me? She's no doubt still angry with me, why should I care if she wants to be with him. Fine, I hope she's happy. This is why sentiment is dangerous, it's distracting me from the task at hand." Ranted Sherlock.
"Whatever helps you survive?" I muttered. Still lost in my dark thoughts.
"I'm just being stupid. I should have learned my lesson with Irene Adler. Love is a detriment, always has been, always will be, no matter who it is." Muttered Sherlock, he was talking more to himself than me. I let him keep talking. I wasn't really listening.
"I'm sorry." I said. I was apologising to my baby, to myself, to Jim. If I had turned down that job all those years ago none of this would've happened. I couldn't stop the overwhelming wave of sorrow crash over me and I started to cry.
"He threatened to kill Jim, I had to beg for his life. He killed my parents. I don't know what to do."
"What? What are you talking about? Why are you crying?" Asked Sherlock, he sounded confuse and I think scared.
"M...Moran, he is destroying everything. He made me beg for Jim's life after murdering my parents." I looked up scared. "I think...he's going to kill me. I did what I had to do; I didn't want to do it. I was only a child, I didn't understand. That's why I needed your help." I knew what I was saying didn't make much sense, but I hoped he would piece it together and understand. I felt him sit next to me and gingerly put an arm around my shoulders.
"Okay, calm down. What did you do? What do you need help with?"
"I can't tell you, I'm not allowed. I did as Mycroft told me. You've already helped. When I'm gone, it will all be alright." I sobbed.
"You're not going anywhere. Come on, it's just the two of us. We're already involved in something illegal right now; it's not the first time for either of us. Since when did either of us really listen to Mycroft?" He asked, he understood something, his voice sounded more certain, but still full of questions.
"Illegal isn't the problem. You know the hold Mycroft has." I sniffed and wiped away my tears. "Come on, we better go and get ready." I stood up, but Sherlock grabbed my hand to stop me. I looked down at Sherlock, his eyes filled with worry and sincerity.
"You know you can tell me anything. Mycroft will never find out, he doesn't even know where I am right now. Your secrets are safe with me."
I looked at him, then nodded and sat back next to him, not letting go of his hand. I sighed.
"I'm about break more laws than I can contemplate. I signed a lot of documents to suppress it. It started when I was about ten, maybe younger, Mycroft would make treasure hunts for me, they were difficult, I really had to think and deduce to solve them, and they would take me days to finish. As I got older they got more complicated, they stopped being in rural Wales and Mycroft would bring me to London to solve the problems. Part of the challenge was to get information from people, which was the next clue. When I was sixteen, I finished school early; I went to live with Mycroft. My parents were going away on a round-the-world trip, they we away for a long time. Mycroft became more than my guardian, he became my employer. I was taken to some disused warehouse somewhere and put through training, I didn't understand why at the time, I'm still not sure why. I started doing little tasks for Mycroft, finding out information from people. He used me as his personal spy; I would go to functions, dinners, and meetings and get anything he wanted. Just before my eighteenth birthday I was asked to introduce myself to a man called Sebastian Moran. He'd been flagged up; he knew things that the government wanted. It was my job to get that information, any way possible. It wasn't the first time I'd had to seduce a target." I took a deep breath before continuing.
"It went a bit wrong. We formed some sort of relationship, it continued after he was no longer useful to Mycroft. Moran introduced me to a friend of his, Jim." I smiled, the only happy memory amongst a sea of confusion. "Jim and I just clicked, I had broken it off with Moran a few weeks previously, he'd said he was fine with it, but when Jim and I started dating it got tense. Mycroft stop speaking to me for a while, I was kidnapped, still don't know who by, Jim saved my life; he took a bullet for me. That's when the cocaine habit started. Mycroft knows everything about my life, so many tiny details, it hasn't been until recently I could keep things from him." I frowned and looked at Sherlock.
"Moran and Jim, they've known each other for long time. Jim doesn't always see it, but Moran is possessive, jealous, and so manipulative. Why do you think Moran's wrist is in a cast? He tried to hurt me, so Jim broke his wrist. There has always been this power play between them. Moran wants what Jim has. Moran will kill anyone; he doesn't have a remorseful bone in his body." I paused letting out a deep breath and I felt lighter.
"I haven't even told Angie all of that." I added, letting him know I trusted him completely. Sherlock shook his head.
"And here I was thinking Mycroft couldn't sink any lower. What a wonderful brother, exploiting his own family as his personal spies, teenagers no less. Angie thinks we have a sibling rivalry, she has no idea." He said darkly. He glanced at me. "I'm sorry."
"It's not your fault." I looked up. "Although, he can never know you have this information. I could be prosecuted for treason. I won't do that to Jim." I couldn't leave him like that.
"He won't find out." Nodded Sherlock.
"Thank you. Sorry, I've been keeping that in for the last seven years." I said relieved. I stood up and wiped my eyes again, I grabbed a tissue and blew my nose. "Time to get ready, you go first, I'll take longer."
Sherlock emerged from the bathroom and gave me a small smile. I nodded, picked up my stuff and went to get ready. I let the hot water try and relax me, but if anything it made me tenser. I stepped out of the shower, dried off. I pulled on my underwear and stood looking in the mirror. I was covered in scars. I had to bullet wound scars on my left shoulder. A scar on my right elbow from where it had been broken badly enough for the bone to puncture the skin. There was an old knife wound on my left shoulder blade and then the scar that haunted me, the scar from the operation when they had to remove my dead child. Moran would pay. I pulled my hair into an intricate up do, securing it with a diamond comb. I kept my make up neat but smokey. I stepped into my long lace dress and opened the bathroom door.
"Sherlock, can you zip me up?" Sherlock walked over and zipped up the back of my dress. "Thank you. You look very smart."
I stepped into my heels and turned to face Sherlock, I helped him tie his bow tie. I picked up my jacket and said:
"I've called a cab, it will take us to Hunter's house. Let's go, Hunter hates to be kept waiting."
We were silent most of the way in the cab, until Sherlock finally looked up. "Anything else I should know before I meet him?" I shot him a stern look, now he asks that question and in public.
"Be very, very polite. Keep any deductions to yourself. Be clever, but quietly clever."
"Fine." He sighed. I had a horrible feeling this would be like that ridiculous court case all over again.
"Dinner assassinations really do put one off their food. I don't want blood in my wine like last time." Sherlock glanced at me. I sighed and shook my head.
"Jim stabbed Hunter in the hand with a carving knife." He just looked at me for a minute, and then turned back to the window.
"I'll behave." I smiled.
"I have every faith in you, Sherlock. Angie's right, you scrub up well." I remember Angie actually having a particularly girly moment and raving about how good Sherlock looked in a suit. Sherlock glanced at me as she mentioned Angie. I sighed as the cab pulled up to a mansion.
"Let's enter the lion's den." We got out of the cab and Sherlock offered me his arm. To anyone we looked like a young couple. Let the games begin.
A gruff looking man came out into the hallway, smiling at me. I beamed back.
"Hunter, darling, how wonderful to see you." I said dramatically, but necessary for the act.
"Persephone, you look ravishing. Welcome." Gregor Hunter greeted. He gave me an appreciative look. I did choose this dress for a reason. Hunter glanced at Sherlock questioningly. "Who is your escort?"
"This is Sherlock Holmes, a dear one." I smiled, I caught Hunter's eye and said: "I think he could be of use to you." Hunter smiled as he shook Sherlock's hand.
"Mr. Holmes, how kind of you to join us. I thought you were dead." Sherlock smirked.
"Pleased to meet you. It was just a...complicated misunderstanding. People just jumped to conclusions." Hunter laughed. I smiled at Sherlock's choice of words, I wonder if he even noticed?
"Yes, they do tend to do that. If the lovely Persephone recommends you, then we'll see." I smiled indulgently at Hunter and took his arm as he led us towards the crowded dining room.
"He really is the best there is. Having him at your side will give you an advantage over James." I said in a seductive voice, leaning in close to Hunter. Hunter looked back at me curiously.
"An advantage, you say? That is always useful."
"Think of it as a present, 'tis the season, after all. Things are...shifting, and I do hate to be on the losing side."
"Interesting. Your husband isn't pleasing, then?" Asked Hunter with a gleam in his eye.
"He's amusing, but after Sherlock escaped him, he lost his edge." I smiled at Sherlock. "Perhaps a demonstration? Sherlock is very talented, he can spot a traitor."
"That sounds promising. I do have a suspicion that I'm being betrayed." Nodded Hunter.
"Show us who."
Gregor walked away, talked to someone briefly, then came back with the man in tow, smiling.
"Alec, come here and meet the infamous Mrs. Moriarty. I've been singing your praises to her." I smiled politely at Alec, winking at Gregor. He loved a good flirt.
"Sherlock, if you would be so kind." I asked stepping closer to Sherlock, I would enjoy this, so would he. It wasn't really showing off, but this way; perhaps he could get it out of his system without getting us both killed.
"Remarkable resemblance to the gentleman Mr. Hunter's secretary was with before we came in, looks to be the same age, but you don't look the same, and I'd say fraternal twins. You were just on the phone, which you took out of the room, the first two numbers were 49, so Germany, not to mention that you were speaking German. Obviously it was a covert call, going by the extent of secrecy you took, not to mention the subject of the call. No doubt you were sure no one else here spoke German, I do. You were discussing Mr. Hunter's plans with someone obviously not with his organisation, more like with a German rival, the most likely, I believe, would be Hans Frederickson. And I also regret to inform you, Mr. Hunter, that he has an ongoing physical relationship with your daughter. I believe she was the young woman who took our coats at the door, obviously your daughter, very profound resemblance. There was a very specific connection between the two youngsters when they looked at each other, but then the young lady glanced at you, she didn't want you to see the interaction. I'm not sure if you'd be more upset about that or the fact that he's selling you out to a German rival, but either way, I'm sure you'd like to handle it yourself."
Sherlock finished his deduction and gave a fake smile, except to everyone else it would appear real. Hunter glared at the young man and snapped his fingers, and two burly men dragged the desperate looking young man out. I smiled at Hunter and kissed Sherlock on the cheek. "Thank you, Sherlock. So, Hunter, what do you think?"
"I'm impressed, Mr. Holmes. You live up to your reputation." Sherlock inclined his head politely.
"Thank you." A bell rang and Hunter again offered me his arm.
"Well, dinner is served. Come, you'll sit with me, Persephone, it's been too long." Sherlock followed behind us a respectful distance. He was doing remarkably well. I greeted a few familiar faces as we made our way to the head table.
I smiled as he walked away, and lowered my voice to Sherlock.
"Wherever he puts you will show his regard for you. Hopefully it's close."
"Understood." Nodded Sherlock. Hunter came up behind me, his hand caressing my waist.
"Mr. Holmes, sit here with your lovely lady, she looks lonely without her husband."
"Thank you, sir." Answered Sherlock, we smiled at each other. I took Sherlock's hand as we made our way through the other guests.
"Hunter, you're too kind. Sherlock has filled a gap in my life, he's indispensible."
I said suggestively, bit gave him a winning smile. Hunter smiled back at me.
"Anything for you, my dear."
"You're too kind." I smirked at Sherlock. "Come, love, sit by me." I shot him a look silently telling him to play along. Sherlock managed to keep from rolling his eyes as he sat down.
"Of course, dear." I shot him a warning look.
"I'd be lost without Sherlock, he's been so kind and attentive." I looked at Sherlock fondly, trying very hard not to laugh. I took a deep breath and leaned closer to Hunter.
"It's so lonely being left in London all the time." I pouted coquettishly.
"You do suit each other." Said Hunter with a raised eyebrow. Sherlock and I glanced at each other, both slightly surprised and repulsed by this. Hunter smirked at us.
"I'm surprised you took a lover. You were against it before, when I offered." I managed a smile and chose my words carefully.
"I was younger and in love, I didn't understand. Maybe things will change." I placed a hand on Hunter's leg under the table, suggesting I might change my mind to his previous offer. Hopefully he'd be dead before he asked again. I flashed Sherlock a look crying for help. Sherlock gave a fake smile.
"Well, I can also be very convincing."
"How so?" Asked Hunter. I felt panic rise up my throat. Luckily Sherlock was good at thinking on his feet.
"Part of it is rather personal, between me and her. Also, I believe when we met, she was rather upset with her dear Jim." I nodded with a smile.
"He swept me off my feet, dried my tears, and the rest is history." It was all sort of true, and I seem to remember something about the best lie is always wrapped in the truth? "Hunter, I'll be frank. I want revenge, so do you? Sherlock will help you achieve that." Hunter looked at me for a minute, and then broke into a smile. "Well, how can I resist?!" He turned his smile to Sherlock.
"Welcome aboard, Mr. Holmes."
"Glad to be a part of it, Mr. Hunter." Smirked Sherlock. So far this was all going rather well.
The fourth course had just been served. We had made polite small talk and I updated hunter on a few bits of criminal gossip. He looked at me intently.
"How long will you be staying, Persephone?" Hunter asked.
"Not long, Jim doesn't know about Sherlock." I lowered my voice. "It's our little secret." I said with a giggle. Again, I let my hand brush his leg. He looked at me with lust filled eyes. I felt sick. He laughed at my words.
"How you've grown. You see, Mr. Holmes, when I first met our lovely Persephone, she was only a slip of a girl, wide-eyed and scared." Sherlock nodded and glanced at me. I had met Hunter for the first time when I was only nineteen.
"She must have matured by the time I met her." I shot Sherlock a look.
"You're making me sound old, Sherlock, shame on you." I smiled at Hunter.
"Your flattery will get you everywhere, Hunter."
"The offer still stands, my dear. I'd look after you well, treat you like a princess." Leered hunter, his smile filled with dirty promises. I paled at hearing the name Princess. Moran's face entered my mind. I wanted to run away. I forced a sweet smile.
"Such an attractive offer. We'll see. Who knows what the future holds?"
"Such a diplomatic response. Don't fret, my dear." Smiled Hunter.
Dinner continued cordially and ended with more small talk to various people who I knew, or who knew of Jim and wanted his favour through me. I just laughed and sent him a text with some of the odder requests. At around eleven o'clock, Hunter led us to the door, accepting travel fatigue for my need to retire early.
"Hunter, thank you for a wonderful evening." I smiled.
"Anything, my dear. Visit again soon."
"Mr. Hunter, it was a pleasure to meet you." Nodded Sherlock.
"Yes, it was. My secretary will call you when I need you." Instructed Hunter.
"Understood." I smiled at both men.
"Hunter, until next time." I smirked at Sherlock, trying not to laugh. "Come on, lover, the night is young."
Once we were out of the house and out of Hunter's sight, I let out a laugh, and Sherlock just rolled his eyes.
"You're in. Well done." I congratulated.
"That was even easier than Baskerville." Sighed Sherlock.
"I said getting in was easier than getting out."
"I'll be fine." He glanced at me. "Thank you." I smiled.
"Anything for you, big brother." I shook my head and laughed again. "I have to say, that was weird." Thinking of the night's activities. Trying to convincingly flirt with your brother is one of the hardest things I've ever done.
"That was tedious." He frowned. His expression made me laugh more.
"It was so hard not to laugh." Sherlock rolled his eyes again. I shook my head, still laughing.
"I'm sorry, but calling you 'lover' was hilarious."
"It was also extremely disturbing." Smirked Sherlock, he also chuckled a little.
"I know!" I laughed. "Tonight was weirdly fun." I said.
"It was dull." Shrugged Sherlock. I nudged his arm.
"Oh, come on, it was better than dull. You were very well behaved, I'm impressed." I smirked, trying not to laugh. "I suppose you wouldn't want to upset your wealthy lover who has crime connections." I tired not laugh at my words or the terrified expression on Sherlock's face, but it was losing battle.
"I suppose Angie's lessons came in handy. And as she's told me before, I'm a very good actor."
"That too. On a serious note, though, you did really well, and he likes you. It might take some time, but you'll sort this out no problem." I smiled. I had every faith in him.
"Yes, my thoughts exactly." He glanced at me. "Thank you." I sighed and then yawned. It had only been a couple of days, but I was tired and tonight had involved a lot of stress, worry and thought. I felt I deserved a rest.
"Please tell me you're tired?! I feel like sleeping for a week. I get to go back to a grumpy Jim; he'll have been on his own with his mental father. Deep joy."
"I'm rarely tired." I smirked at that.
"That's a lie. I have photographic evidence of you fast asleep."
"What?" Exclaimed Sherlock, startled by my words.
"That's all I'm telling you." I grinned evilly. He just stared at me.
"I warned you, I will torment you forever, I'm your little sister." He rolled his eyes again. "You love me, really."
Sherlock just kept looking straight ahead. A faint smile tugging at his lips, I smirked at him.
"See? Proof. You only get all silent and moody when you're scared of sentiment. It's alright."
"I do not." Argued Sherlock frowning at me.
"Yes you do. Just nod and say 'Yes, sister dearest.'" Sherlock stayed silent and I laughed. I linked my arm back through his and quickened our pace.
"Come on, I have to catch a flight in the morning."