[Johnlock/Mystrade] Tears in rain

Chapter 8

November 2026   London    Sixth year of the end of the Great Purge

The rescue center was a bit more busier at the end of the year, but most of the work was just administrative.

John had taken on the role of head of the cardiac surgery wing and so had to attend a few council meetings.

The meeting on annual budget was prolonged, the room was not well ventilated. An elder nearly had a heart attack.

John examined him and suggested that he should go to hospital immediately for an in-depth examination.

It surprised John to see Sherlock helping the elder into the arranged car to send him to the hospital.

"I suppose his family would appreciate it, Doctor." Sherlock was very polite.

"Well, I'm not aware that you held a government position before, Mr. Holmes." John didn't brother to play back the politeness.

Smiling, he replied, "I assist my brother with some of his problems on occasion." That was true enough.

John nodded, not making a comment.

Looks like he would be having more contact with Sherlock.

Still, the man was quite sensible (hopefully) and showed more manners, respect and ease of progression than at any other time.

Not wanting to read any more of his mind, John let him be as long as he didn't bother him.

The rescue center's budget for the year wasn't ideal, John frowned as he read through the paperwork.

"It appears the budget is troubling you, is there anything I can do to help?"

He glanced at the man, then continued the work "I would have to say I hear the sarcasm in your words."

Sherlock chuckled.

John continued, "It's not ideal, but it will support the center. The government has its own concerns and the rescue centre is costly, I do understand that."

"You're quite content with what you've been given, you seem to accept whatever life offers you." Sherlock commented, it's a rare day when there's not a lot of fighting going on, so he took the time to talk a bit more.

Content? That's because you've never seen me in hysterics, never seen me wanting to tear the world apart but realizing in despair that there's nothing I can do to anyone but tear myself apart.

"Mr. Holmes, accepting what life offers is my last resort, not everyone has the ability to control their own destiny as you do." he replied without emotion, John was telling the truth.

"Have I said something wrong?" Sherlock wondered.

"No, sir. Never mind. The meeting is about to start and I must go." John replied blandly.

A hint of a smile appeared on his face, did the doctor himself notice that he was showing his emotions for the first time?

At least that's improvement, Sherlock.

Later on, Irene confirmed Sherlock's judgement, as she was an expert on such subject.

Sherlock may not trust her, but Irene's professionalism is one of the reasons why Sherlock admired her.

And Irene did gave him some good advice.

They're both a bit addicted to the game.

Never considered that those who toy with other people's feelings will one day have them turned against them.