Nothing Like Love and Everything Like a Phoenix

Chapter Eight

For the first time in his life, John woke up not just next to someone, but in their arms.

When John first woke up, still in that space where he wasn't sure if he was dreaming or actually awake, all he could feel was warmth. When he opened his eyes all he saw was Sherlock. His hair was in his face and his eyes were still shut, and John thought Sherlock looked odd while he slept. He felt like he was watching something he shouldn't have been.

Sherlock's eyes flung open soon after that. They dashed around the ceiling before landing on John and relaxing. John didn't know whether to smile at or kiss Sherlock.

"We the only ones here?"

John nodded, "As far as I know, but even if someone is here, they won't be for long."

"I'm guessing it's usually like that?"

John nodded.

"Is it weird waking up next to someone, then?"

"Not weird. Just...different."

"How so?"

John huffed, "It's too early for questions, Sherlock."

"Well, at least I get to stay longer. Even though it's because you're alone most of the time anyway." He sat up and John rolled to the side.

"You're frowning." Sherlock said, reaching for the pack of cigarettes he left on the bedside table.

"Masterful deduction." John stared up at the ceiling. He didn't feel lonely, but now that he thought about it, he was always kinda alone. He usually had the house to himself, and when he didn't his dad and sister where in their respective rooms most of the time, ignoring everyone else.

"How 'bout we make a deal, then?"

John turned his head, "What kind of deal?"

Sherlock blew a cloud of smoke out of his mouth, "Whenever you feel like you would prefer to have someone besides your drunk family-"

"Hey."

"I can stay over here. For as long as you want."

"That's..." He turned onto his side, "That's really nice." He thought about it for a moment, "What are you getting out of it?"

Sherlock sighed, "Well, It's not like I want to be home that much either."

"And why's that?"

"Too early for questions, John." He gave a little mocking smile.

John leaned over and kissed his cheek. Mostly because he could.