Can't Love You {Sequel to "Not Sherlock Holmes"}

Chapter Twenty-Five

Benedict's POV

So many times, I have wondered to myself what kind of person I would end up falling in love with.

What is my type, exactly?

The classy, fashionable woman? The celebrity sweetheart? The stunning model?

I look now at the woman my heart has chosen. She isn't classy, but she's clumsy for sure. She's no celebrity, but she's a sweeheart. She's doesn't have the body of a model, but she's more beautiful than any woman I've ever laid eyes on.

The woman I've fallen in love with is brave.

Veronica is brave.

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The building we have chosen is small, but the walls are strong and sturdy. Our hope is that it will be able to withstand any major blows, but we aren't sure what to expect except the Soldiers' strongest.

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We have set aside one room for the children and the men and women who are unable to help defend. It's been established in the center of the building, where there are no windows. This serves two purposes: the Soldiers can't see in, and the children can't see out.

Maggie wants so much to help. I've had to sit her down and explain that her help would be best put to use by taking care of the younger children.

"You've got a pregnant sister to look after, you know," I remind, but Maggie pouts.

"I can help! I can shoot!" I smirk.

"Yes, I've had the pleasure of being on the other end of the gun you were holding." It's her turn to smirk.

"I wasn't going to shoot you."

"It was still utterly terrifying."

Veronica watches us from across the room, a small, fond smile playing on her lips. We haven't talked much since we set out, but the short looks and the slight touches speak louder than any words ever could.

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Martin and I are in charge of the expedition to seek out weapons. We must put together a small band of our choice to help us scavage.

"You know, Martin, you're not as young as you once were," I joke. He scowls.

"I'm still fit, you," he retorts. I laugh.

"That you are, my friend."

Martin is now debriefing the small group of men we have chosen to accompany us on our mission. I sense a presence entering the room, and I turn, surprised to see Ian standing there.

"Ben," he says, and I raise my eyebrows.

"Yes?" He doesn't meet my eyes.

"You wouldn't, by any chance, need an extra hand?" I smile.

"Of course." He finally looks up at me.

"Then I would like to accompany you." I shake his hand.

"Good man, Ian."

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The quest to find weapons was semi-successful. We found a police station and finally managed to break into the stash of guns and ammunition.

"This is brilliant," Martin exclaims. "We might actually stand a chance!" I grin at that.

"We always did, my friend. We just needed a boost of confidence." Martin smiles widely at me, his face creased.

"I've missed you so much. You and your irritatingly positive attitude." With that, he attacks me with a hug.

"Oof!" We embrace, but I chuckle quietly to myself.

The only thing that could really make things better would be the Doctor's return.