#anderlock rp

Stranger: I didn't know that. SH

You: Yes, well... I've always supported them. PA

Stranger: Why? SH

You: I think everyone is wrong. PA

Stranger: You don't think vampires are monsters? SH

You: No. PA

Stranger: Oh. I'm glad. SH

You: Why is that? PA

You: More of a reason to hate me? PA

Stranger: No... No. Not at all. SH

You: Then what? PA

Stranger: We... probably need to talk. About that. I don't hate you. SH

You: [Delayed] What do you mean that you don't hate me? PA

Stranger: I don't hate you. It's just safer to keep people at arm's length. SH

You: Of course... PA

Stranger: Because of what I am. SH

You: [Delayed] You're a vampire then. PA

Stranger: Yes. Please... don't tell anyone. SH

You: I won't tell anyone. I promise. PA Is there anything you need? PA

Stranger: Thank you so much. No, I'm okay. I just wish I could say the same for my people. SH

You: Right, right. If you need something, I'll help you get it. PA

Stranger: Thank you. I'd like to apologise for my behaviour before. SH

You: Your behaviour before? PA

Stranger: I was extremely rude to you. I didn't mean it. SH

You: It's fine if you did. PA

Stranger: I didn't, I swear. It's just... easier to keep people away. In case they find out. SH

You: I'm not that clever. I know that. PA It's fine. PA

Stranger: You are an intelligent man. And good at your job. SH

You: I'm not, but thank you. PA

Stranger: Yes, you are. And you won't convince me otherwise. I've met enough people in my time to know that. SH

You: Thank you. PA

Stranger: You are more than welcome. I just hope I can make it up to you. I won't have to wear my mask any more, at least not with you. SH

You: Your mask? PA

Stranger: The sociopath thing. SH

You: Right, of course... PA

Stranger: I feel just the same as anyone else. But when the people around me have such short lives... It is painful to get attached. SH

You: I know you do. PA

Stranger: ...You do? SH

You: Of course. PA

Stranger: Not everyone does. SH

You: They're not paying attention. PA

Stranger: And you are? SH

You: I've picked up a thing or two from you. PA

Stranger: I'm impressed. What else have you noticed, then? SH

You: I'd rather not say. PA

Stranger: [delay] Okay. If you don't want to tell me, I respect that. SH

You: I don't want to bother you. PA

Stranger: You wouldn't be. I did ask, after all. SH

You: [Delayed] You're lonely. You have John, but as you said... People have such short lives. PA I would guess that you're in love with him, but I don't think you are. Of course, I rarely see you both. PA You're more irritable and harder to work with when there's a lull in cases or they aren't stimulating enough. PA

Stranger: ...Oh. Yes. Very good. SH

You: Your mind must hold so much information from the years you've lived, and you need something to focus on. PA There must be so many things that run through your mind. I'd say it's loud, and that's why the cases are important. PA They help, don't they? PA

Stranger: They help a lot. Without something to keep me grounded, my mind drifts off into the past. SH

You: I'm sorry. PA

Stranger: Thank you. Not your fault. I'm glad you know the truth, though. SH

You: Are you sure there's nothing I can do to help? PA

Stranger: I don't know what you could do. SH

You: If you ever wish to be yourself, you could always come to mine. PA You wouldn't have to worry about anyone coming by. PA

Stranger: I'd like that. Being myself. I don't remember the last time I actually relaxed. SH

You: I can procure anything you need to. PA

Stranger: [delay] Could we... talk? Just talk. About the past. Vampires. Things I can't discuss with anyone else. SH

You: Yes. PA

Stranger: Thank you. SH

You: If you need, uhm, you know, I'll get you some. PA

Stranger: I... I don't... I abstain. 99 years and counting. SH

You: Then what do you do? PA

Stranger: I have excellent self-control. And strong coffee. SH

You: I don't know much, but I'm assuming that you don't need blood to survive then...? PA

Stranger: Most vampires do. I can live without, but it makes me much weaker. SH

Stranger: Most vampires do. I can live without, but it makes me much weaker. SH

You: Right. Alright. PA Well, if it ever comes to that you need some, I'll get you some. PA

Stranger: Thank you very much. SH

You: Yes, of course. PA

Stranger: Is there anything I can do for you? You're helping me so much. SH

You: I'm fine, but thank you. PA

Stranger: If you're sure. I have a few powers other vampires don't, so if they can help... I'm especially good at healing. SH

You: [Delayed] How did you know? PA

Stranger: You aren't the only one who can read people. SH

You: This isn't the reason I help. PA

Stranger: I know it isn't. But you do help. And I want to return the favour. SH

You: No. PA

Stranger: No? SH

You: No. I'm not going to use you. PA

Stranger: And if I want to help? SH

You: Thank you, but I'm going to continue my treatment and keep my fingers crossed, Sherlock. PA

Stranger: Philip... SH

You: Remember, if you need space, my flat is open to you. PA You're welcome to pick the lock any time. PA

Stranger: Please. Please let me help you. It would only take a few seconds. SH

You: I'm fine. PA

Stranger: I didn't lie to you, when you worked out that I wasn't fine. SH

You: But I am fine. PA

Stranger: The fact you acknowledge the need for treatment shows how untrue that is. SH

You: You're right, partly. PA My body isn't fine, but I'm alright with that. I already know what's going to happen and I'm fine with it. PA So yes, I am fine. PA

Stranger: Why, though? Why are you fine with it, when it could be fixed in a second? SH

You: The why doesn't matter. PA Are you going to come over soon? PA

Stranger: I think it does. I'm too selfish to let you just accept this. SH

You: Are you going to come over soon, Sherlock? PA

Stranger: Soon. When you agree to let me help. SH

You: I won't. PA However, I'm going to lay down. PA

Stranger: Then I won't come. I refuse to watch this happening to you. SH

You: Are you certain? PA

Stranger: Yes. SH

You: I'll save the biscuits for next time then. PA Remember, if you need anything, I will help. PA

Stranger: Unless, apparently, what I need is to heal you. SH

You: You don't need to heal me. PA You want to heal me. PA You don't need me. PA

Stranger: Actually, I do. SH

You: Why? PA

Stranger: Because you're different. You understand. You give me hope. I know it's selfish, but I do need you. SH

You: John volunteers on occasion as well. PA He can be your hope. PA

Stranger: I don't want him to be. I want you. SH

You: You like John more than you like me. PA Sherlock, I have given up. PA I am exhausted. PA

Stranger: I care about you. A lot more than I should. I won't lose you. SH

You: Sherlock, please. PA

Stranger: It is the truth. I'm sorry. I've tried so hard not to feel this way, but I do. And I will not let you give up. SH

You: I am sorry, but I have already given up. PA I'm so tired as it is. My only commitment now is to my volunteering. It is all I do now. PA I don't have much of a life anymore. And it's fine, but I have given up, Sherlock. PA

Stranger: [delay] I'm coming over. And I'm going to heal you. And there is nothing you can do to stop me. SH

You: Don't. PA Please. PA

Stranger: Why? SH

You: Because I don't want you to see me as I am right now, and I don't want to use you. PA

Stranger: You wouldn't be using me. This is why I have these powers, Philip. To help people. So please, please let me use them to help you. Someone I actually care about. SH

You: I can't. PA

Stranger: You can. SH

Stranger: I'm coming over. SH

You: [Delayed] The only way I will let you heal me is if you turn me. PA We both know you won't turn me, Sherlock, but that is the only way I will accept it. PA So give up. PA

Stranger: That's the only way you'll let me save you? SH

You: You won't turn me. PA

Stranger: If I would... You'd let me do that? SH

You: You won't. PA

Stranger: I'm coming over. SH

You: No. PA

Stranger: To save you. The only way I can. SH

You: No. Sherlock, please. Stop. PA

Stranger: Isn't this what you wanted? SH

You: I didn't think you'd actually accept! PA

Stranger: I will do whatever it takes. SH

You: Why? PA

Stranger: [delay] Because you were right. I'm not in love with John. SH

You: I don't understand... PA

Stranger: I always knew I would lose you one day. That's why I tried to hard not to care. Because a vampire's heart is given forever. But I couldn't help myself, and now... now you know, and you're going to be taken away unless I help you. And it hurts so much. SH

You: Sherlock... PA [Delayed] I won't leave you alone. Ever. PA You need to know that. PA

Stranger: But you're trying to do just that right now. SH

You: Sherlock, look at what I'm saying. PA Read it one more time. PA

Stranger: [delay] Ever? SH

You: I promise. PA

Stranger: Can I come over now? Please? SH

You: Yes. The door is unlocked. PA

Stranger: Oh, thank god... Thank you. I'll be right there. SH

You: I'll be here. PA

Stranger: Ten minutes. SH

You: Take your time. PA

Stranger: Not a chance. I'll be there as soon as possible. SH

You: Just be safe. PA

Stranger: I will. I'm extremely hard to hurt. SH

You: I still worry. PA

Stranger: [delay] You scared me. SH

You: I'm sorry. PA

Stranger: It's okay. It's okay now. SH

You: I won't scare you again. PA

Stranger: I know. I trust you. SH

You: I love you too, Sherlock. PA

Stranger: I've wanted to hear you say that for so long. I'm so sorry I pushed you away. SH

You: You had to. PA It's fine. PA

Stranger: But I love you, and I hurt you. SH

You: It's okay. PA I love you too, Sherlock. PA

Stranger: You're ridiculously kind. SH

You: I am not. PA

Stranger: Yes, you are. And thoughtful, and generous, and patient, and... a whole dictionary of wonderful things. SH

You: I'm not. PA At the moment, I'm truly impatient. PA

Stranger: And I am very nearly at your front door. SH

You: [Delayed] You don't mind that I am in my pyjamas, do you? PA

Stranger: Not in the least. SH

You: Right. Good. PA [Delayed] I'm nervous. PA

Stranger: Don't be nervous, it's okay. What's worrying you? SH

You: I never thought that you might ever love me. PA

You: Or that I'd get over this illness. PA

Stranger: And now you've got both. SH

You: And you truly want me? PA

Stranger: With all my heart. SH

You: It's truly happening. PA

Stranger: It is, I promise. SH

You: I love you. PA

Stranger: I love you too, Philip. SH

You: I'm going to start the kettle. PA And remove the biscuits. PA I'll see you soon. PA

Stranger: No... Keep the biscuits. Please? SH

You: I meant that I'll remove them from the cupboard for you. PA

Stranger: ...Oh. Okay. Thank you. I have a very sweet tooth. SH

You: I know. PA

Stranger: ...Of course you do. Is there anything you don't know about me? SH

You: Your history. PA

Stranger: Would you like to? SH

You: When you get here. PA

Stranger: Of course. Anything you want to know, I'll tell you. No secrets. SH

You: The same goes for you. PA

Stranger: Can I ask you... how long? When did you realise you felt like this? SH

You: I first started when you sneaked onto your first crime scene. PA You were so clever and so breathtakingly gorgeous. I didn't realize I was in love with you until you stated that Sally and I were shagging. PA I tried to correct you because I didn't want you to think we were. I didn't want to ruin my chances. PA

Stranger: That's... a very long time. I'm sorry this has taken so long. SH

You: No. It's fine. I wasn't in a good place then. PA

Stranger: Everything is going to be okay now though. I promise. SH

You: I know. PA

Stranger: I honestly never thought we'd get here. I thought I was going to spend the rest of my existence mourning you. SH

You: I'm sorry, love. PA

Stranger: I'm sorry too. I should have been there for you. No one should ever have to give up hope. SH

You: You couldn't, but I understand. It's okay. PA

Stranger: It will be. I'll never let you hurt again, love. SH

You: Thank you. PA

Stranger: Heading up now. SH

You: I'm just steeping the tea now. PA I will see you soon. PA

Stranger: Sherlock opened the front door, his heart pounding. He could hardly believe they were doing this, that it was all real... He'd been terrified, so frightened that tears ran down his cheeks. But it was okay now. Everything was going to be okay. Hurrying through to the kitchen, he caught sight of Philip in his pyjamas, making tea, and wrapped him up in his arms. "I love you," he whispered desperately.

You: Philip turned as he felt the arms wrap around him, body sagging with relief as he was held. He closed his eyes, pushing his fatigue further at bay as he leaned into the other man. "I love you too, Sherlock." He answered, tone raspy with his exhaustion but brimming with all his adoration. Turning further into the hold, the man set their cuppas down and wrapped his arms around the other, face burying in the vampire's neck. "I love you too."

Stranger: Sherlock supported Philip in his arms, gently taking his weight without a word. Tightening his hold just enough, he lifted Philip's feet off the ground, holding him very close. "I thought I was going to lose you," he whispered, the words catching in his throat. "My love..." Gently he carried him to the sofa, setting him down with a loving smile. "I'll just get the tea," he murmured, pressing a kiss to his forehead.

You: As he was he was lifted, Philip closed his eyes and relaxed even further with the full knowledge that he would be taken care of. Once settled against the couch, the male looked up at the kiss and quickly grasped Sherlock's hand to keep him from moving away. He brought it to his lips to kiss the vampire's knuckles just to return the affection before he let go. "I won't ever leave you now. I promise."

Stranger: Sherlock's heart swelled uncontrollably, and he couldn't breathe for how much he loved this man. "I know," he murmured. Hurrying through to the kitchen, fetching the tea and biscuits for them both and setting them down on the coffee table. Then he gently lifted Philip's legs into to his lap as he sat down on the sofa beside him.

You: Humming at the way the other male took such care of him, he closed his eyes and settled into the cushions. "I put honey in yours. I thought might enjoy it." He murmured, opening his eyes to look at the other male with such love in his gaze. "If you don't, I can make you another cup. I put extra cream in mine..." Philip finished, already shifting to get up as if he fully believed Sherlock wouldn't like it.

Stranger: Sherlock rested a hand on Philip's shoulder, stopping him gently. "It's my favourite," he smiled. He really did have a sweet tooth. "Thank you." Since Philip was sitting up anyway, Sherlock leaned in to place a light kiss to his cheek. "Just relax, 'kay? Do you still want to know about my past?" He thought perhaps telling him stories would make him sit still for a while and rest.

You: At the question, Philip did lay back and relax. "Of course. I want to know everything. We can take it day by day. Or year by year." He mumbled, clearly exhausted. "Start from the beginning." He finished, obviously falling quiet so he could listen. He may have also closed his eyes but he had no intention of sleeping. He was going to listen, but rest as he did.

Stranger: Sherlock smiled tenderly. He could see how tired Philip was, and adjusted his tone to be more soothing, in case he wanted to fall asleep. Sherlock wouldn't mind, he just wanted him to be as comfortable as possible. "The beginning," he repeated with a smile in his voice. "Well... I was born in 1215," he said softly. "In a little village in Sussex. I wasn't a vampire then, I was human. So very human. I grew wheat, and kept goats, and spent my evenings either with my family or at the ale house."

You: Try as he might to stay awake, the male simply found that he couldn't. His eyes remained closed, his breathing slowing onto a soft rhythm of in and out. He was wholly asleep and it showed how much he needed it in the limpness of his limbs and the pale pallour of his cheeks. He would be displeased when he woke, given that Sherlock had been sharing his life story and that he had been asleep for most of it. Shifting on the couch, the male settled in and slept.

Stranger: Sherlock noticed the moment that Philip fell asleep, but he kept talking for a short time, just to make sure that he settled fully into sleep. Then he sat quietly beside him, sipping his honeyed tea with a smile. He felt so completely content in that moment, finally able to be there for Philip, to support him and make him well. That was all he cared about. Being together. "I love you so much," he whispered gently. "Forever."

You: Philip slept for an hour and would have slept longer if his stomach hadn't begun to churn and twist. Nauseous, the male opened his eyes and settled a hand over his stomach before placing one against his mouth. He dry heaved for several seconds, body curling inwards as his stomach prepared to empty itself. He breathed through his nose before rushing to stand, throwing himself off balance for just a few seconds.

Stranger: Sherlock was on his feet in seconds, one arm around Philip's back as he helped him to the bathroom. "Shh, come on, it's okay," he murmured, kneeling beside the other man and rubbing his back in soothing circles as his body spasmed. "Deep breaths, love..."

You: The man trembled as he was helped to the bathroom, body curling over as he let the bile rise and his body to take over. He didn't have anything to throw up, but his body apparently believed so. He knelt there just waiting for the tremors to pass and for his body to exhaust itself. Minutes ticked by even after that and Philip turned his face away pressing a hand to his eyes.

Stranger: Sherlock drew Philip into his arms, cradling him in his lap. It broke his heart to see him this way, and he was determined to turn him soon, so he wouldn't have to suffer any longer. Or ever again. "Oh, love," he murmured, pressing a kiss to his now-damp forehead. "I'm so sorry. I've got you, you're okay, you're going to be just fine, I promise." He held him close, never wanting to let go.

You: Philip let the man hold him, too weak to do much else, though he didn't want to move away. Pressing his face into the vampire's neck, he let the words wash over him and grasped onto his shirt. "I didn't want you to see me like this." He murmured after a moment, sounding so very broken and fatigued. He couldn't stop shaking, and his body seemed to be very adamant on torturing him.

Stranger: Sherlock cradled Philip as if he was the most precious being in all the world. Because to him, he was. "I'm so sorry you've had to go through this alone," he whispered brokenly. He didn't care what Philip looked like, he only regretted that he hadn't been by his side from the very first time. Waving a hand over his body, he focused hard and gently drew out his pain. "Blood magic," he whispered as the shaking began to subside. "I... I know it's soon, my love, but... I want to turn you. You don't have to suffer any more." And since they'd already agreed to do this, he wanted to stop Philip's illness as soon as possible.

You: As the pain left him, Philip found himself sinking deeper into the other's hold and too exhausted to keep his head up. He struggled to reply, merely nodding now as Sherlock spoke, and it was obvious that he couldn't last any longer like this. "Sherlock, go on... Turn me." He breathed, breaths weak against the male's neck as he sat where he was. "I won't be able to go for much longer. Go on. Turn me so I can start taking care of you." He smiled, closing his eyes. He wanted this. Wanted to be with the man for as long as possible. He would accept the change and then... Nothing could keep them apart.

Stranger: Sherlock nodded, tears gathering at the corners of his eyes as he held Philip in his arms. "I love you," he murmured, "and I will love you forever. Human or vampire." Sherlock extended his fangs, letting them slip into the large vein in Philip's neck. He could feel the sickness in every cell of his blood, but he didn't hesitate, just drew the blood up into his own body, replacing it with his own strong, powerful vampire blood. When they had exchanged enough, he withdrew, pressing a kiss to the two tiny wounds on Philip's neck. "The change is almost complete," he whispered. His blood was already filling the other man with health and strength, healing his body and transforming him into a beautiful, immortal vampire. Sherlock's own body shuddered as it processed the huge influx of Philip's blood, but he kept him in his arms, stroking his forehead.

You: With the murmur cascading over his frail form, the man knew that this would be the end of his mortality. "I love you so very much, Sherlock. I always have and I always will." Philip spoke, making sure the man knew that everything he said was true. He felt the first bite and hissed, his body tensing as it attempted to process what was going. Panic ebbed within his mind and the instinct to fight or run was so strong in his weak frame. He cried out softly, gripping the vampire's shirt tightly within his hands until a numbness settled over him. He murmured something weakly, feeling his body change and his heart slow. It felt like hours, the time ticking by slowly as if he were on a whole other plane of existence. And then everything came back to him, his mind opening to collect an influx of information that was more than overwhelming. It seemed loud and Philip wondered if this was what Sherlock's mind must be like on a daily basis. He opened his eyes, trying to draw in a deep breath as he struggled to process all the information coming from his new senses.

Stranger: When Philip's eyes opened, Sherlock gasped softly in sheer relief. The man's pupils were wider, darker than before; a clear sign that he was almost completely a vampire. "Shh," he murmured, "I've got you, it's okay, I know it's loud, I'll teach you to make it quiet." But until then... Sherlock had never been more grateful that he was an elder than as he passed a hand over Philip's head, filling his mind with calmness. "Better?" he asked gently, smiling at the other man. He was so much stronger than before, it was a joy to see it. Sherlock himself felt quite weak, having given up a lot of his own blood to change Philip, but he knew his body just needed a little time to process it all.

You: As the calm settled over the man's frame, his breathing seemed to regulate and he shifted to press into the hand moving over his head. There was the quiet. The calm that he needed to relax more. "Better." He breathed, shifting to look up at the other man. He searched his face before reaching up to stroke a hand through the vampire's curls. "Are you alright?" Philip questioned as he stroked over the male's scalp. It was obvious that he simply couldn't keep his hands to himself. He wanted nothing more than to remain close and it was obvious how content he was for he moment. "I love you, Sherlock... So much."

Stranger: Sherlock relaxed slightly, breathing more heavily than usual. He could feel his blood fighting to overwhelm and consume all of Philip's human blood. "I love you too. I'm... I'm okay." He groaned softly, hands clutching his head. "I'm fine. I just need a minute." Sherlock smiled, looking over Philip's recovered form. "God, I love you." He reached out to lace their fingers together tenderly.

You: Philip was more than concerned as Sherlock groaned. He squeezed the hand in his lightly before reaching out to draw the man in close to him. He stroked through his hair, massaging his scalp carefully so as not to cause any harm or irritate him. "I love you too. I truly do, Sherlock. You're absolutely brilliant... Thank you, love. Now let me take care of you." He murmured, ensuring that his tone was gentle and smooth.

Stranger: Sherlock relaxed into Philip's touch, leaning against him as he waited for his body to recover. It wouldn't take too long, but right now, it was hell. His body was filled with the blood which had been within Philip when he was ill, and it wasn't doing Sherlock any good. He could feel it being destroyed, but until it was, he would feel awful. "I'm okay," he whispered, "this... this happens. I'll be fine."

You: "Don't lie to me Sherlock. I can tell that you're not okay." He murmured, Pulling the man closer until they were resting on the floor together. It likely wasn't the most comfortable place, but when he had been sick, it had helped to remained stationed on it. "We'll just rest right here together." Philip murmured, stroking through the brunet's curls as he held him against his chest. His free hand rubbing over the man's back.

Stranger: Sherlock shivered, nestling very close to Philip's chest, burying his face so his pained expression wouldn't be visible. "Okay," he mumbled, taking a deep, shuddering breath. "Okay..." He didn't care that he was hurting, it didn't matter. Nothing mattered but the feel of his arms around him and the strong, eternal beat of Philip's heart beneath his ear.

You: He rubbed the male's back, not stopping the firm comforting motion. He knew the male wasn't okay. Knew that something was wrong. It was his fault. He should have said nothing, but then... They wouldn't have ended up together. They wouldn't be this close. Kissing the brunet's curls, he hummed softly and closed his eyes. "I'm sorry. I did this to you... I'm sorry and I promise that I will make it up to you."

Stranger: Sherlock's eyes flew wide open and he sat up quickly, shaking his head. "No," he said firmly, "no, this is not your fault. I promise, this wasn't you. I chose this, because I love you. There is nothing to make up for." He met Philip's eyes, letting him see the sincerity in his own. He knew he would be well soon enough, his body was much stronger than a human's. All he had to do was focus on their future together and wait for it to come.

You: Philip looked into the male's eyes and frowned deeply for just a few seconds until he gave in. Closing his eyes, he drew Sherlock in close and pressed a chaste kiss to his lips. "It's my bad blood that your body is fighting... I was the one that got sick and... And you're the one suffering because of it while I got better. This was why I didn't want to use you. You're in pain and you feel awful. I know you do, and I'm so sorry, love."

Stranger: Protective? What do you think is going to attack you? -SH

You: You. PA

Stranger: You think /I'm/ going to attack you. What possible evidence has led you to that conclusion? -SH

You: [Delayed] None, but I was told this would be the best way to handle this whole thing... PA

Stranger: Told by who? A Hunter? Or one of those idiot books -SH

You: A hunter. PA

Stranger: Thought so. Hunters are all the same, kill first and don't bother asking questions -SH

You: I didn't kill you though. PA

Stranger: No, you've only got me in a trap that is slowly draining my energy until you either let me out or I die. Did you even look up what you were using? -SH

You: [Delayed] No, I just used what he told me to use. I didn't want to kill you, I just wanted to ask you a few questions. PA

Stranger: Well ask away. I've got about...two hours until the trap drains enough energy to knock me out, three until it kills me. Depending on what exactly you used of course -SH

You: I'll get you out before then. I'm not far from home-I was out of tea. I figured we could at least be somewhat civil while we talked. PA

Stranger: How kind. You do realize you could have simply /approached/ me instead of doing this, yes? -SH

You: No I couldn't have. You would have immediately scoffed and walked away whilst calling me an idiot. PA

You: I am aware that you avoid me, Sherlock. PA

Stranger: {Slight delay} True. And apparently I had very good reason to do so -SH

You: I wasn't going to do this before, I swear. PA

Stranger: Sure. If I confessed you /defenatly/ would not have reacted poorly and tried something like this, or worse -SH

Stranger: Hell forbid you tried something stupid like 'taming' me -SH

You: I might panic, but I wouldn

You: *I might panic but I wouldn't hurt you. PA

You: I wouldn't have used the trap at all if I knew it would kill you. PA

Stranger: {Slight delay} You are being serious aren't you? -SH

You: Yes. I'm sorry, I really am. I only wanted to talk. PA

Stranger: {Delayed} Next time look up what you're using before you try something, alright? -SH

You: Yes. Of course. I will. I promise. PA

Stranger: Good. So before we have this talk, how did you figure it out? -SH

You: Your eyes. PA

Stranger: My eyes? Care to elaborate? -SH

You: [Delayed] They sort of changed color, and the way you spoke about stuff... Like you'd experienced it. Stuff from history and so forth. PA

Stranger: I may have underestimated you. -SH

You: You always have. PA

Stranger: Not always. -SH

Stranger: I know you /have/ potential you simply, and infuriatingly, choose not to /use/ it -SH

You: And you never look whenever I am clever. PA

Stranger: Well, I can't very well let you get cocky. That's my job, after all -SH

You: Right, of course. PA

Stranger: Relax. I do notice you, don't worry about that. -SH

You: Only when it suits you best. You don't have to coddle me, Sherlock. PA

Stranger: Please. I do hope you've realized by now I hardly 'coddle' anyone. -SH

You: You're wrong about that. PA

Stranger: What do you mean? -SH

You: You coddle people more than you think. pA

Stranger: I do? When? -SH

You: You do it quite a bit with John. And Lestrade, sometimes Molly. PA

Stranger: (Delayed) Yes well...they need a bit of 'coddling' sometimes. Especially John. They're so...fragile and please do not try to disagree with me on that. -SH

You: No, no. I get it. I mean, you've lived a lot longer than any of us. We must seem delicate to you. Well, we are, of course. Fragile, I mean. PA

Stranger: John can't go to crime scenes on his own. SH Molly doesn't do field work. SH Gavin is already swamped. SH

You: It's Greg. -PA But alright, I'll do it. -PA

Stranger: Is it? SH Good. Don't mess anything up while I am away, got it? SH

You: Yes. It is. -PA I'm not going to mess up... Where are you going anyway? -PA

Stranger: Are you asking because you really want to know or because you feel the need to make idle conversation? SH

You: Because I'm curious and wish to know. -PA

Stranger: [delayed] I don't know why you would be. SH It's a personal matter. SH And it's confidential. SH

You: Of course you don't know why. You never know why. -PA Alright, fine. I'll leave it be. -PA

Stranger: What do you mean 'of course'. SH I feel as if I am missing something here. SH

You: You always miss something, Sherlock. -PA I'm starting on your cases now. -PA

Stranger: [delayed] I will make an effort to figure this 'something' out when I return. SH Until then you will not be able to reach me. SH

You: Right. Yeah, just... -PA See ya. -PA

You: [The Next Day] I'll have you know that I didn't mess up your cases and the woman in the blue coat is lying. -PA

Stranger: [delayed] Well done. SH I'm sure you did decently. SH

You: Surprising. You've never complimented me before. -PA Not sick are you...? -PA

Stranger: Not physically, no. SH I would do it more if you did this well more often. SH

You: You never give me the chance to. -PA

Stranger: Because I am perfectly capable of doing the work on my own, quickly and efficiently. SH I would be bored if I didn't. SH

You: Then there you go. -PA Need anything else? -PA

Stranger: I would like to know what the 'something' is. SH

You: No. -PA

Stranger: Why not? SH

You: Just no. -PA

Stranger: I will ask Gary then and maybe he will know. SH

You: Greg. His name is Greg, and good luck. He doesn't know. -PA At least I hope he doesn't. -PA

Stranger: Greg. Gary. They're similar. SH [delayed] I'll ask Molly then. SH

You: Still, his name is Greg. -PA Moly wouldn't know, so good luck there. -PA

Stranger: Well I am certainly not asking the Sargent. SH What could all of them possibly not know that you do. SH

You: Because it has to do with me and not them. -PA

Stranger: Something to do with you then. SH Not a health problem unless it is recently occurring. SH

You: No. I'm healthy. -PA

Stranger: Then what is it? SH

You: You truly expect me to tell you? -PA

Stranger: Were you looking for gossip? SH

You: No. -PA I'm not looking to tell you or share it with anyone else. -PA Guess as much as you'd like. You'll never figure it out. -PA

Stranger: Just tell me then. SH It's aggravating not knowing. SH

You: Well stay aggravated. I'm not telling you. -PA

Stranger: Not even a hint? SH

You: The hint is that it's to do with me. There. Good luck. -PA

Stranger: To do with you. Something nobody knows. And not a heath problem or gossip, supposedly. SH

Stranger: If not gossip, to catch me using again? SH

You: No. -PA

Stranger: In need of a reason to spy? SH

You: No. -PA

Stranger: Boredom? SH

You: No. -PA

Stranger: [delayed] I don't know! SH What else is there? SH

You: Something you never take into consideration or account for people you don't cherish. -PA

Stranger: [delayed] I don't see how that related to your interest. SH [delayed] Oh. SH

You: Did you figure it out? -PA

Stranger: Literal 'interest'? SH In the emotional sense? SH

You: [Delayed] Should've known you'd figure it out sooner or later. -PA

Stranger: [delayed] You aren't joking, are you? SH

You: No. -PA

Stranger: I don't understand why. SH

You: That's fine. -PA You don't need to. -PA

Stranger: [delayed] You shouldn't. SH Not me. SH

You: yeah, well... There's nothing I can do about it. -PA So let's forget it happened and you can go back to calling me an idiot. -PA

Stranger: I can't just 'forget' something like that. SH [delayed] I am sorry. SH

You: Then delete it. You said you can do that... -PA Don't. Just don't. I just want to forget you found out. -PA

Stranger: [delayed] I don't think I will. SH Rarely do I hear that - not even from my own brother. I want to keep it, even if I cannot reciprocate. SH

You: [Delayed] Why? -PA

Stranger: Why what? SH Why keep it? Why not reciprocate? SH

You: Why keep it? I know why you cannot reciprocate. -PA I just don't understand why you would keep it. It's not vital information, it's nothing that can help you... -PA

Stranger: But it's not unpleasant. SH

Stranger: It's one comparably good memory in a swamp of others. SH

You: Why is it good? It'll just take up space. It's nothing important, it doesn't... -PA

Stranger: Even I need to hear something good every once in a while, as much as people might thing I am immune to negativity. SH

You: Right... Of course. -PA [Delayed] What were you doing yesterday? -PA

Stranger: I told you it's private. SH

Stranger: It's between Mycroft and myself. SH

You: Alright, alright. -PA

Stranger: [delayed] You're just dropping it? SH

You: Yes. -PA

Stranger: Odd. SH But not unwelcomed either. SH

You: I know better than to inquire when Mycroft is involved. -PA

Stranger: A fair enough point. SH You can see why I wouldn't say. Even if I didn't mind - which I do - Mycroft would not take it so lightly. SH

You: It's fine, Sherlock. There's no need to explain. -PA

Stranger: Thank you. SH

You: No need to thank me either. -PA Don't start treating me differently because you know now. -PA

Stranger: It was a genuine thank you though. SH I didn't plan on it. SH Maybe I am just not feeling myself right now. SH

You: Then I hope you feel better. -PA Now that it's out of the way, I'm useless to you now. -PA

Stranger: You're being contradictory. SH Now you're treating me different. SH And I cannot have you be helpful and treat you the same at the same time. SH

You: Right, well... You know now. -PA So I was being honest. I haven't been in the past. -PA

Stranger: [no response]

You: Well, goodnight then, Sherlock. -PA

Stranger: [no response]

You: [No Response]

Stranger: [text from unknown number:] Hello Mr. Anderson. MH

You: [Delayed] Mr. Holmes... -PA

Stranger: I believe there are some things we need to discuss concerning my younger brother. MH

You: Are you going to send a car or... Are we going to talk about it through text message? -PA

Stranger: Car, obviously. MH It's outside. MH

You: Right, be out in just a minute then... -PA

Stranger: Don't dawdle. I am not a patient man. MH

You: Sucking in a shaky breath, Anderson read the last text and felt his blood run cold. Out of both Holmes brothers, Mycroft was the one that truly frightened him. The man had power and he used it too. It made him nervous being around the elder Holmes and the man was just... It was inexplicable really. Tugging on his coat, the man closed his eyes and released a calm breath before locking up his flat and making his way out to the car waiting for him. He knew the drill, open the door, get inside, and just be quiet. Mycroft would start the conversation. Settling into the seat, he relaxed.

Stranger: The older of the Holmes brother kept the stoic face upon Anderson entering the car. He had been snappy. Anthea was at the wheel and they were pulling away from the flat in seconds. "You told my brother you have an interest in him." Up close he could see if Anderson was lying or not. "And before you ask, he did not tell me. Texts are easy to get ahold of."

You: The color drained from his face, his heart thudding deeply in his chest. He shifted in his seat before giving a nod of agreement. "He figured it out, but yes... I did. Nothing is going to come out of it, I know that, so I'm not entirely sure why I'm here..." He admitted 

Stranger: Anderson bit his lip. Could it be him? Possibly? Slowly his look of shock turned to a wide grin. He knew it. He followed every move, he knew he was alive and getting closer to London. He walked to the door and unlocked it, holding the phone near the door as he did so. If he wasn’t allowed to speak, he could surely let him know by doing that. He could let him know that he was welcome to come in.