Chapter Text
“When’s dinner, then?” asks John.
“Last night. He sent a car for me.”
“Of course, he did.” John signals for another round. “Hope the destination was nicer than where his cars tend to deliver me.”
“It was a date, not a kidnapping,” Greg snaps.
“Sorry, sorry.” John raises both hands. “I wasn’t having a go, really.”
Greg sighs. “I know you weren’t.”
They drink in silence until John asks, “So, how was it?”
“He got called away in the middle.”
“Ah. Well, dating a Holmes couldn’t be simple, could it?”
“Actually,” says Greg, sensing an opening, “that’s what I wanted to talk to you about.”
John’s expression shifts from curious to defensive in a fraction of a second. “Sherlock and I aren’t….”
“I know,” Greg interrupts. “I’m not looking for… advice. God, no. It’s… well, I was hoping you could… handle Sherlock.” He continues in a rush as John’s eyes narrow. “I don’t know what’ll happen, but I do know Sherlock will know something’s happening, and….” He trails off.
John’s face brightens with understanding. “You don’t want him announcing it to the entire Yard.”
“Could be distracting at a crime scene.”
“At the very least.” John picks up his glass, apparently contemplating the amber liquid. “I’ll talk to him.”
“Thanks.”
“You’re welcome,” John says, “Gavin.”
Greg decides to forgive the chuckle.