The two worked together relatively comfortably. Things were quieter, calmer, since Eurus. They fell into an easy rhythm as days turned into weeks and weeks into months. Slowly, their banter came back, and they were not so cautious around each other. Sherlock and Molly truly became friends.
One day, as Sherlock was leaving the lab, Molly stopped him.
"Sherlock," she called. "Can I talk to you a moment?"
Sherlock crossed over to the pathologist. "What is it?" he asked.
"I… I've taken my time," Molly began. She glanced down to where her hand was fidgeting on the countertop. "Over the last few months, I've been getting to know you all over again." She made eye contact with him now. "I can trust you again. I still love you. So what I'm trying to say is…"
"Molly Hooper," Sherlock interrupted. "Are you asking me out on a date?" A smile emerged on his face.
"Yes."
Sherlock leaned over and gently kissed Molly's cheek. "Fish and chips?" he crowed as he backed towards to door. Before exiting, he stopped and made eye contact with her again. He winked at her and her eyes sparkled.