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There is no going back anymore, Mycroft thought as he watched the love of his life walk into his death.
Mycroft tried to help him until the very end. He offered Albert a way out of this but he rejected his help. Albert accepted his fate and no one could change that. Not even Mycroft.
Neither of the young Moriarty brothers were to be seen. William had died three months ago and Louis was acting as the new M behind the scenes. He didn’t show up today.
The last show. The final act.
The death of James Moriarty.
Another Lord of Crime would be leaving this earth in a few minuets. The people were glad. Of course, no one wanted the traitor Earl Moriarty breathe the same air as them anymore. They were tired of it.
Just like Albert got tired of living.
He never showed that though.
Albert remained calm and confident until the end. Even as the noose was wrapped around his neck, he looked as confident as always. There was no sign of fear in his eyes. No sign of sadness. Nothing.
The same could be said for Mycroft.
He just stood there and watched the scene unfold. The moment Albert rejected his offer Mycroft knew that this would end soon. And Mycroft Holmes wouldn’t make a scene at the execution of the Lord of Crime.
Mycroft Holmes, the government.
Mycroft Holmes, the ice man.
That was how they called him, wasn’t it?
Mycroft knew that even in this moment, people would think he didn‘t care. He showed no emotions. No muscle moved. Nothing happened as he watched life slowly leave Albert‘s body.
"Lieutenant Moriarty..." Mycroft growled and looked up from his desk.
"Director Holmes", Albert replied with a smirk.
"Albert", Mycroft greeted him with a smile.
"Mycroft", Albert said and smiled back at him.
"Al..", Mycroft mumbled and finally kissed him.
"Myc", Albert whispered into the kiss.
"I love you."
"I love you too."
The colonel appeared next to him. His face explained everything. He was angry.
"Not even now? Not even now, Mycroft Holmes? You really are made out of ice", Moran growled as he light up a cigarette. He puffed his smoke into Mycroft‘s face, frowning. "You didn’t deserve him. If you truly loved him, you would have done something. No.. You just stood here and watched Al die."
"Duty is the death of love, dear Colonel", Mycroft coldy replied and left the scene.
Before he left completely, Mycroft turned around one more time and looked at Albert‘s lifeless body hanging there. Maybe he was wrong. Maybe their happiness was just an illusion. Because Mycroft felt almost nothing.
"and maybe Mycroft Holmes doesn’t know how to love."