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I had only just begun to settle into my new routine—or rather, to resume my old one—at Baker Street when I fell ill. The change in routine had been difficult enough, for although I was glad to have returned to the rooms I had shared with Holmes for so many years, I never found any change easy.
But although that had been further complicated by the fact that the very nature of reality had changed, I had settled in. Rising at my regular time, dining at my regular time, staring out over the rooftops with Holmes at my regular time.
Right now, I was supposed to be rising from my regular after-dinner pipe to stare out over the rooftops with Holmes. I never caught any glimpses of shifting horrors myself, but I would not leave my friend to keep vigil alone.
Except perhaps today, I would. For as soon as I attempted to rise, I fell back into my chair, breathless, my head spinning.
I had thought Holmes fully focused upon his observation, for he concentrates upon his interests to the exclusion of all else. But he turned from the window at once, eyes lighting on me with concern. “My friend. I see that your dizziness has worsened.”
“Dear god,” I said, a little helplessly.
I meant to say more, but no other words would come. Whenever I felt ill, which was often as I was prone to recurring bouts of poor health, I found it difficult to speak. The strain of our recent, terrifying experience had worsened my usual difficulties with my health, and today it seemed that what had been a minor inconvenience chose to become major.
This meant speech would be challenging. It also meant that I would not be able to maintain my usual routine, perhaps for the next few days. My heart rate rose at once, and I shuddered.
“It’s all right, Watson. We shall do our best to minimize the impact.” Although Holmes looked as if it was difficult for him, he closed the drapes and came to my side. Drawing up a chair, he sat, and took my hand in his. “I fear we cannot stare over the rooftops together if you are this ill. But perhaps it will help to be together, regardless?”
Relieved, I nodded. My health’s disruption to our routine would be difficult, but Holmes’ company calmed me.