The Diary Of John Hamish Watson (Aged 10 Years)

6th September

6th September 1982

We didn’t go to school today. Mum wouldn’t let us but even if she had let us I know Harry wouldn’t have wanted to go. I don’t think I would either to be honest.

At seven this morning, Harry woke up after only a couple of hours decent sleep and we ventured downstairs- Harry clutching her doll and me clutching Harry. Mum sat at the kitchen table, her hair a mess and make up smudged.

“Mummy!” Harry declared and curled into her lap like a toddler. I just stood at the bottom of the stairs.

“Has he gone?” I asked but knowing the answer. Mum nodded.

“It’s for the best John,” she said, putting an arm around Harry.

I got the ice cream out of the freezer for breakfast and we all cuddled up on the sofa. Mum turned on the TV and we watched Harry’s Sesame Street videos.

There was a soft knock on the door at half three. Mum stirred from her half-asleep position.

“I’ll get it,” I said, kicking back Harry’s duvet and standing up.

“Good boy, make sure the chains on though.”

I put the chain across then opened the door. Sherlock stood awkwardly on the other side. I undid the chain.

“You weren’t at school today,” he said. “I wanted to make sure if you’re okay.”

I rubbed my eye with the heel of my hand.

“Mum kicked Dad out this morning. Or last night. I’m not actually sure which. But we’re all in a bit of a state,” I explained. Sherlock nodded.

“I’m sure you’ll want to be alone with your family. But if you need anything you know where to find me.”

I smiled a little, “Thanks.”

“That’s what friends are for,” he paused. “If your Dad’s gone- we can be proper friends now can’t we?”

I smiled again, “Yes I suppose we can.”

“Who was that?” Mum asked as I returned to the sofa.

“Sherlock,” I replied. “To see if I was okay.”

“Oh,” she pulled me into a hug. “He seems a good lad, that Sherlock. Very clever from what I’ve heard, if a little adventurous.”

At half eight, Mum saw the time and gasped a little.

“You should be in bed!” she exclaimed, getting up. “Come on, teeth, pjs!”

My face fell. “Just because Dad’s not here anymore doesn’t mean you can order us about as a replacement!” I yelled then felt a little bad about it. Mum slumped back down and tears appeared in her eyes.

“I’m sorry,” she whispered and hugged us both again. “I think we can sleep here.”

I said I needed to go to the toilet but instead sneaked into my room to write this. I’d better get back down though before Mum starts worrying.