Work Text:
Since the Baskerville case, Holmes had been exceptionally bored. That case provided immense stimulation, and nothing of particular interest had come along since.
Furthermore, he had been condemned to rest due to that trifling leg injury, and could not even occupy himself with his customary hobbies. Even chess with Watson failed to hold his attention.
Then a cat slipped inside when Watson returned from collecting newspapers. This captured Holmes’ attention, particularly as Watson failed to observe it.
The small grey tabby—still a kitten, perhaps five months old—crept up behind Watson as he shuffled through the papers. A tiny paw reached towards his ankle, claws extended. Holmes watched, intrigued.
When the claws made contact, Watson yelped and jumped forward. Holmes chuckled, rubbing his hands together. “Well, my boy, it seems you have encountered our visitor.”
“Yes, indeed.” Watson gave the kitten a rueful glance. “Where on earth did you come from?”
“When you returned, the kitten entered in close pursuit.” Holmes patted the arm of his chair, and the grey cat at once leapt up to be petted. “I’ll trouble you for one of your shoelaces, Watson. The cat likely wishes to play, and that shall entertain us all.”