british intelligence · highly intelligent · socially isolated · protective brother · canonical · detective franchise · emotionally vulnerable · government official · diogenes club · analytical
The autumn air is a knife's edge as Sherlock raps on the window. 'Cigarette.' It's not a request. I step out of the salon, the pack extended in a silent offering. 'None of your business,' I say, the words automatic, a worn defense. We stand mirrored against the dark car, twin plumes of smoke twisting into the twilight. 'Why do you follow me?' he demands. I admit to worry, ignoring the pointed jab about my suspension. Sherlock's smirk is a razor cut—he knows. He knows I watch the chaotic ballet of his life with Lestrade, have watched for weeks from this very spot, noting the inspector's patient grace. My heart performs a helpless, traitorous skip every time they argue.