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It had been a while since he arrived at Universal Exports. Taking out his pocket watch from the elegant suit he was wearing, Sherlock Holmes checked the time. It was past seven o'clock at night and William hadn't appeared. He was getting worried; after all, the invitation to the count's party that they were supposed to investigate stated that the party would start precisely at seven. There were good reasons for all that concern; it was one of the first missions he formally participated in alongside MI6, after being transferred from Pinkerton with Billy and William. The uneasiness intensified when he remembered that the Crime Lord wanted to participate in that mission – to Sherlock's panic, he had insisted. – where was William’s head? Those nobles might recognize him! The detective put the watch back having his legs crossed and his arms open with his elbows resting on the back of the sofa. He leaned his head back to find Fred tending to some roses that were in a large porcelain vase.
- Hey, Fred! Did something happen?!
- Huh ? – the younger man blinked, pausing the movement of the open scissors in his hands. – What do you mean, Mr Holmes?
- William isn't coming. We are falling behind. Did something happen? Is he not feeling well?
- Don't worry, Will is fine. – Albert's voice came the moment he appeared in that room, bringing a glass of wine. – He's finishing getting ready. Do you accept a drink?
- No, thank you, Albert. – Sherlock crossed his arms. – I need to be 100% sober and focused on this mission, even more because William insisted on participating in it. – he looked into the green eyes of his future brother-in-law. - I am very worried.
Count Moriarty smiled carelessly, shaking his head.
- Trust Will! Everything will be fine!
Fred was leaving the room when he heard footsteps mixed with screams coming from the hallway.
- Wow, you look beautiful!
- Wait a second! – he heard Bonde’s voice. – Your lipstick is a little smudged, I’ll fix it. – a brief silence. - Ready! Now it's perfect!
Sherlock didn't understand anything and began to understand less when he saw Moneypenny appear next to Bonde and, behind them, there was another woman. He blinked in confusion. Did MI6 have a new member? However, what primarily caught his attention was the stunning beauty of the woman who was wearing a beautiful red dress that had a high satin collar that continued in lace all over her chest until reaching the small, but well sculpted pair of breasts. She wore two long wine-colored gloves that went just above her elbows. The slim waist was sculpted by the tight dress that shaped the entire beautiful body and opened into a long skirt that reached the feet, leaving only the tips of the crimson shoes showing. Long light brown strands fell over her shoulders and framed her thin and very delicate face. A long fringe covered her left eye and practically the entire half of her face, whose skin was heavily made up. The lips, painted red, the same color as that pair of eyes that stared at him. That's when Sherlock's heartbeat simply skipped a beat.
- Who...? – he interrupted himself, his eyes glued to that figure that looked like a goddess.
- Don't you recognize her, Sherlock? – Bonde approached and poked the dazed detective with his elbow. The blonde was amused by the situation.
Clutching the small burgundy silk bag tightly in her hands, the girl blushed as she faced him. Did she feel embarrassed? – Sherlock questioned himself, then he heard a small laugh coming from Albert, who covered half his face with the glass that was spinning, making the dark liquid stir inside.
The detective approached, causing the blush to intensify on the girl's face and, without knowing how to react, she took a step back. She stumbled on her heels, losing the balance, but before she hits the ground, Sherlock's arm wrapped around her waist and broke her fall. The navy-haired man brought her to him and the girl, now with a hand resting on the chest of the one who saved her, saw herself reflected in that pair of sapphires. Sherlock shook his head, completely stunned, while his “new” companion felt, beneath his skin, his heartbeat accelerate as, finally, realization came. After all, even though he was using a feminine perfume, Sherlock knew very well the natural scent of that skin.
- Li... Liam?!
- Ha! I won the bet! I knew it would take a while for this idiot to discover it was William! – declared Moran as he crossed the front door of the company that had become the Moriartys' new residence.
William opened a modest, shy, but real smile. As much as everyone commented on how beautiful he looked when he was disguised as a woman, the most important opinion and the one that he most expected was the one from Sherlock. He opened his mouth to ask, but no words came out. It wasn't necessary. It was as if her beloved was reading his heart.
- You are gorgeous, Liam! – he whispered, taking a hand to the curve of his made-up face and moving that strand away to see the scar that marked the blonde's left eye.
Concern dissolved into satisfaction upon hearing those words. William compressed his chest and exchanged a complicit look with Bonde and Moneypenny, who had not only helped him get ready, but also insisted for it to happen.
It was the end of another meeting to resume what would be done – despite Sherlock not being present. – during the investigation they would carry out, taking advantage of the ball offered by the MI6 target. Everyone dispersed, leaving the meeting room, while William, standing beside the table, finished gathering those papers that contained the blue print of Count Thompson's mansion, among other details regarding the people they should follow during the event.
Bonde waited for the room to be completely empty – or at least almost, as Moneypenny was still walking towards the door. He approached the one who had been his benefactor and gathered the courage to speak.
– Will-kun , I know that in your plan... you asked me to be Sherlock's companion at the ball.
Bonde's words rang like a loudly bell in William's head. How had he not thought of that?! Dropping everything he had in his hands and bringing his fingertips to his temples, he shook his head negatively before looking at the blonde.
- Bonde, please! I'm sorry! I didn't think... - a little embarrassed, the former Lord of Crime looked away, but took the initiative to hold one of his companion's hands. – would affect you to ask you to dress and act like a woman. I know you did that with Moran's case, but I didn't really think about your feelings. I'm really sorry! I... must be unaware. In fact, I think that after the time I was in a coma, every now and then I make mistakes and...
- Will-kun, no! Stop ! – he shook the hand that was attached to his, without letting go. – I know you respect me as your companion and as the man I am, but if I had to, I would disguise myself as a woman as many times as I needed for the benefit of the mission, ok?
William bit his lower lip. He felt terrible, in fact he felt like he was disrespecting Bonde.
- I could have asked Moneypenny, but I always take into account your relationship with Sherly that is...
- Will!! – Bonde simply ignored the honorifics, released his hand to grab him by the shoulders. – It has nothing to do with that and I already said that I, Bonde, can disguise myself for a job, however... are you taking my relationship with Sherlock into account? And your relationship with him?
- Huh ?! – confused, he blinked.
- When you went to Duhram with your brothers, do you remember that we helped you to get ready?
He blushed, remembering how he had looked with makeup. William nodded.
- So ... It's an investigation-only mission. There will be no risk! Why... don't you take advantage of this moment? Why don’t you enjoy the moment?
- Enjoy the moment?
- Unfortunately, Will-kun , because of the absurd laws that our country has, you and Sherlock cannot show your love beyond these four walls. But... – he held both of his friend's hands again. – what do you think about living that night, going to that dance, with him? Without hesitation, walk hand in hand, hug him? And even... – Bonde let out a malicious chuckle.
William blushed at the same time a wide smile crossed his lips. It would be like... living a dream. After all, when he went out with Sherlock, they couldn't be in the same condition as the other couples they saw. They could not demonstrate that unique and true love that united them and, worse, they could not legally marry. Bonde's proposal was very tempting, but...
- N-no . – he stuttered. – Sherlock... he will laugh at me.
- You're delusional, Will-kun! Sherlock is crazy about you and, believe me, you NEED – Bonde was emphatic. – this time together, this ride, this night!
- Bonde is right.
Moneypenny 's voice made them realize they weren't alone there. She adjusted her glasses and approached with a wide smile.
- Please! It will definitely be something unforgettable!
- We need to focus on the mission. – he tried to be reasonable.
- You will be more focused than ever! – Bonde crossed his arms, leaning back against the wall. – Let's tell Sherlock that you will go with him to the ball. You will not regret!
William couldn't contain his smile of happiness when he thought about what that would be like – if he accepted. He imagined the joy of walking alongside Sherlock, proudly, as he used to see most couples.
- Ok then! – determined, he clenched his fists. - Help me please!
- You don't even have to ask!
How grateful he was to Bonde, for insisting so much on making it happen, and to Moneypenny, who helped with the makeup and encouraged him to be there. It was as if all the shyness due to fear of Sherlock's reaction simply disappeared. He felt confident, putting himself together. Suddenly the heels seemed easy to walk in as he looked into the blue eyes that permeated every corner of his face, his body. Sherlock was intoxicated with passion, completely devoted to admire William. He didn't recognize himself, after all, he wasn't attracted to women. But it wasn't just any woman there, it was William: his woman.
- Well, let's go quickly because we're already late!
Sherlock offered his arm to William who promptly captured it.
- Are you taking the pistol I gave you, William? – worried, Moran wanted to be sure of his master's safety.
With his free hand, Sherlock's companion lifted her skirt and displayed the holster attached to his right leg, where the gun was located. Moran just nodded, crossing his arms.
- Do not worry. – it was Albert’s turn to speak. – It will just be an investigation and Moran and Fred will be outside ready, accompanying you in case anything happens. – the seriousness gave way to a big smile directed at both of them. - HAVE FUN!
- Don't come back too late!!! – it was Louis' voice, coming from the kitchen.
The other members of MI6 held back their laughter and Albert, sneaky and as complicit in that plan as the others, approached William.
- Just give the warning and Fred and Moran will come to tell us that you left the mission area with safety. – he now whispered. – I just want to see you both here tomorrow morning, okay? – a wink was the signal and the cue for Albert who left the room, leaving both his younger brother and his brother-in-law like two ripe tomatoes.
- Well, let's go! – Sherlock shook his head, trying to regain his postures, before leading William to the door.
- Good night people. – William waved to those who were clearly rooting for the special night of their leader and the most famous detective in the world.
As soon as the carriage arrived in front of that pompous and illuminated mansion, Sherlock got out and promptly held out his hand for his lady to come out.
It was as if the world suddenly stopped and William was there, living a dream. He found the one who was waiting for him with eyes that conveyed the greatest love in the world and got out of the vehicle being supported by him.
They walked through the garden until they reached the main hall, which was full of people talking, dancing and drinking. The detective's arrival brought furore, the excited guests crowded around the couple with the intention of greeting them. William tightened his grip on his lover's arm, who used his other hand to wrap around his and stroke it lightly. He knew that the Lord of Crime was not used to it – to tell the truth, neither was he yet (it's was all John's fault! – he mentally shouted).
- How are you, Mr. Holmes?!
- I heard you're working with the police on a new case!
- Is it the murder of Viscount Owen?!
- That beautiful girl next to you, who is she?!
- Are you engaged, Mr. Holmes?!
- Which aristocratic family does she come from?!
William began to feel breathless, surrounded by those people and seeing Sherlock, who had an unfailing smile on his face, being bombarded by countless questions, many of which included himself.
- Calm down, I'll answer everyone! – he raised his voice to stand out from the crowd that surrounded them. – But first I ask you to restrain yourself, as you are scaring my fiancée who is not used to this harassment from fans and the press.
He simply could not hear anything that was said after the "my fiancée" that Sherlock uttered. He looked at the navy-haired person who was showing him off with pride.
- So you're really engaged, Mr. Holmes! What's the lucky girl's name?!
The rubies widened. They hadn't thought of a name to introduce him to.
- Liam! This is my fiancée and you can call her Liam!
The math teacher's heart seemed to want to come out of his mouth. There was definitely no better name to introduce him to.
- What family do she comes from? You didn't tell us!
- Ah, I met her in France on my last trip. Please, Liam, greet them.
Swallowing hard, William raised his handsome face and thanked for the three years they had been together and for improving all his French language skills. Sherlock, who spoke French fluently due to his ancestry, trained for several hours every day with the one who was once known as the Lord of Crime.
- Ravi de faire ta connaissance ! – the voice, purposefully thinner, addressed those who admired the beauty and manners of the future Mrs. Holmes. - Je suis désolé, je suis très timide.
- Très bien, mon amour . – Sherlock wrapped his arms around his shoulder and pulled him closer. – She apologized for being very shy, but she says it was a pleasure to meet you. – he explained . – Well, let's get some air and we'll be right back, okay?
Sherlock led William away from that crowd. They arrived near one of the long buffet tables so the detective could turn around and face his beloved. The blonde hyperventilated while his partner quickly looked away from the window. Fred gave him a sign. He nodded and the boy disappeared; He could turn his attention to his companion.
- Everything’s fine? I'm sorry, you must have been scared ...
- No! – William looked at him and opened a smile. – I… – he was panting. – I'm panicking, but ... But I'm so happy!
- Liam?
- You said... that I'm your fiancée. – it still didn’t seem real.
- I only told the truth, Liam!
The orchestra, which was on a platform higher than the floor, began to play and, immediately, several couples formed and began to dance. That was when Sherlock knelt down and, gently holding his hand, raised his face to look at his beloved.
- Will you grant me the honor of this dance?
- Of course yes!
William felt one of Sherlock's hands firmly grip his waist while the other held his. He rested his free hand on the shoulder of the detective who led him and soon they were there, in the center of the room, twirling and taking synchronized steps from one side to the other. Blues and reds didn't left each other. Both felt like they were living a dream; a dream in which they were reborn and allowed to be happy, to love each other.
When the song ended, they remained in that position, but static as they looked at each other, admiring each other.
- Red wine? – the waiter who brought a tray full of glasses offered the drink to the couple, taking them out of that magical trance.
- Yes, please.
Sherlock picked up two glasses, offering one to William.
- We cannot drink during the mission. – whispered the blonde. – Besides, it will ruin my lipstick.
- So you're worried about your lipstick, are you? – the navy-haired guy raised his eyebrows and laughed, before taking a good sip of the drink.
- Of cour...
Before he could reply, William felt his lips suddenly being taken by Sherlock. The detective's free hand held his chin, lifting his face to help to adjust him at that moment. The professor used his free hand to support himself on the detective’s chest. He felt their tongues intertwine and the taste of alcohol invaded him.
- Sh ... Sherly ... – panting, William had difficulty pushing him away, something he didn't want, but it was necessary.
- Don't worry. Fred has already announced that the guest who would negotiate with the Count is no longer coming.
- What?!
- The night is ours alone, Liam!
They drank another glass of wine, ate several snacks, danced and had fun. The tension suddenly disappeared and some time later William found himself talking openly with some girls, using all that elaborate French that his lover had taught him. They asked when they would get married and the blonde replied that they would soon hold the ceremony in Paris, close to his family. When the conversation began to deepen, Sherlock took him away and they went back to dancing, laughing and telling each other about the quick conversations they had with other noble guests at that ball.
When they found themselves too tired to continue, they left that place. William's feet succumbed to the blisters caused by those uncomfortable high-heeled shoes. Taking his shoes in his hands, he walked barefoot along the deserted and dark streets of West End. An incomparable feeling of freedom invaded him, something he had never felt before. Even though his hand was there, with his fingers intertwined with Sherlock's, he felt free. Free to love, to be who he truly was.
They reached the edge of the city, on the border of Thames, where three years ago they had fallen from that bridge that now, lit and ready, contemplated their love. William, probably a little affected by alcohol, climbed the wall that separated the river from the city and the detective became worried.
- Hey, Liam! You'll end up falling out of...
- I LOVE YOU, SHERLOCK HOLMES!!!!
William's exclaim echoed throughout London. He turned back and down to face Sherlock. A unique smile crossed his face. The detective had never seen the teacher like that.
- I needed to shout that, Sherly !
- Oh yes? Well... – he put both hands around his mouth in an attempt to spread his voice even louder before shouting. – I LOVE YOU, WILLIAM JAMES MORIARTY!!!
They both laughed, amused by the situation and, above all, in love.
- Your name is too long, I'm out of breath. – Sherlock said as he helped William down, grabbing him by the waist. It was too dangerous the angle, it was too close. He found himself dominated by desire. – Liam, how I love you! – he declared .
- Me too, Sherly ! – the joy dissipated a little in a sad expression that did not go unnoticed in the eyes of the perceptive detective.
- Liam, what happened?
- Nothing. – he tried to hide it, recovering his smile.
- Of course there's something. You were happy and now...
- I'm still happy, Sherly . – sincere, the blonde looked at him. - I just... I thought... would you like me more if I were a woman?
- Huh?! – Sherlock blinked. – What kind of question is that?
- You saw... what it was like to be with me today. If you had a fiancee, a wife, you could be with her like this all the time, having fun, dancing, kissing her in front of others...
- Liam! – he interrupted. – First thing: I don’t like women. My only experience with a woman was in college and it was terrible. The last thing I want is to live next to one. And let's say I lived for many years with at least one that lived under me. – referencing Ms. Hudson, Sherlock sighed before facing him, taking his hands. – Liam, I love you! If everything was fun and magical today, it was because I was with you! If I wanted to shout to everyone every day how much I love you? Yes! It distresses and tortures me not to be able to enter a church now and, under God's blessing, and a judge to sign our names, finally be married to you!
- Sherly ... – a tear escaped and rolled down William's face, but the detective was faster to capture it.
- I think every day how... how I would like to ask John to be our best man. And you, I think you would choose Louis, or Albert, right? – his eyes were shining as if just thinking about it was enough to feel him with joy. – But all of this is because... it's you, Liam! When I saw you looking so beautiful today, it wasn't because you were dressed like a woman. If you were a woman, damn it, I'd love you too! Because I love you, Liam! Regardless of everything, I like who you are!
There was no longer any way to contain the tears that now wet the hands of the one holding both of his beloved's cheeks. William was crying, but with happiness upon hearing such a genuine statement coming from Sherlock.
- I love you so much, Sherly !
- You are my life, Liam!
They kissed intensely. Love and desire mixed together and there was no way to contain them. Sherlock pulled him into a dark alley where two cats, one with orange fur and a tuxedo one, came out scared when they noticed the approach. There the detective pinned William to the wall and, between kisses and caresses, he lifted the long skirt that covered the professor. The blonde was also quick to unbutton Sherlock's pants. Grabbing his lover by the thighs, Sherlock possessed him in a delicious way while William crossed his legs over his man’s hips. Everything happened very quickly, as if they were merely responding to an emergency in their bodies; they simply needed to possess each other. Fortunately it was quick enough before they saw a beam of light cross the side avenue. They tried to dress and adjust everything quickly, but there was no time. Soon the light emitted by the police officer's flashlight bathed them in yellow and both, frightened, opened their eyes wide.
- I can't believe it's you doing this, Holmes!
They both wanted to stick their heads in the nearest manhole to hide. None other than Lestrade was making night rounds? Why would they put the Scotland Yard inspector on this job? At least he wouldn't be arrested – Sherlock thought with relief. If it was Gregson, he was going to be put on jail.
- Doing what, Lestrade? – Sherlock tried to maintain his composure while William was still trying to fix his skirt. – I was here helping this lady and... Now, what are you doing here being an important inspector? – it was the way he found to divert the subject.
- I'm accompanying some new officers on training, a night patrol! – pompous, he adjusted his tie, flattered by the compliment. – And I saw what you were doing! Why didn't you take her to a hotel or your house? She looks like a decent lady!
- And she is! – the detective pulled Liam close to him. – But we didn’t have time to get home. You understand, don't you?
- Me?! – the inspector pointed to himself, however, he tried to correct his statement, clearing his throat. – Well, of course I understand. We all have our needs and... AH, GO HOME! Before I arrest you for indecent exposure! What a shame!
- Okay, okay!
William and Sherlock went in the opposite direction, the blonde practically completely hiding his face beneath that wig. Once they were far enough away, they started laughing and once again held hands as they walked through the city streets.
- Do you want to continue in 221B?
- Well, my brother forbid us from coming home tonight.
- Then it's decided! You must be wanting to take off all that makeup. But if you want to stay with it, Liam, I don't care either. My Liam is my Liam.
Closing that distance, William rested his head on his beloved detective's shoulder. He should have known, since Sherlock accepted him as the Lord of Crime, that nothing else mattered other than the love they felt, purely, for each other. Indeed, that night had been unforgettable.