#joanlock lives
Joan was standing at the kitchen counter when Sherlock came up close behind her and spoke almost in her ear.
“I’m going to put my arms around you Watson, with your permission.” Permission of course was not necessary. The stating of intentions was more of a playful vestigial habit, a remnant from years past when their relationship changed and they found ways to maneuver over and around boundaries.
Joan smiled and leaned back into him as his arms encircled her waist.
He placed a tiny kiss at her neck. “The boys at the precinct send their regards.”
She placed her hand over his and enjoyed the moment before she spoke, “I wonder why no one has ever asked us … ”
“Asks us about what?” he murmured against the curve of her cheek.
Joan turned in his arms to face him and he reluctantly pulled away from the soft sweetness of her. His bewildered look prompted her to place a gentle kiss on his furrowed brow. She lay her head beneath his chin and snuggled in. “About this ….“
"Ahhh… simple really.” He held on to her and swayed slightly as he continued, “Firstly, we are the soul of discretion. No PDAs. No haptic hints. Secondly, and most importantly the thought that you would ever have anything to do me, outside of a professional relationship, is ludicrous. No one would believe it even if I told them. You are intelligent, beautiful, gracious, kind and beloved by all. While I… I am an odd-looking ass that nobody likes. You, to use the vernacular, are way out of my league.”
“Oh come on…” she looked up at him and chided, “I don’t think you’re odd looking." A smile spread on her face as he winced. "I sometimes wonder if it’s not just some sort of racism or prejudice or something?” Her tone grew serious and she once more hid her face against him.
“You mean because I’m British?” His attempt at humor was met with silence and he realized this was upsetting her. “I would not be at all adverse to making our relationship public … the first person who dares make a comment, dies.”
“Sherlock!” She chastised him and squeezed him tight. “Thank you but, no. We don’t need anyone’s validation…. I have everything I need right here.”
He bent his head and whispered in her ear. She nodded. Sherlock took her hand and they walked into his bedroom.
Originally posted March 2017
