fanfic - sherlockbbc
Title: A Lesson From Bohemia
Chapter: 05/08
Betas/Brits: None! But if you want let me know! <3
Rating: PG:13 (R later chapters)
Pairings: MH/GL, SH/JW
Wordcount:
Warnings: Character Death, M/M
Disclaimer: This story is based off of this prompt from the kink meme. Will eventually contain mentions of child abuse, gay sex, violence and whumpage.
Chapter 01, Chapter 02, Chapter 03, Chapter 04
Special thanks to tiasworld for being an awesome beta!! <3
XXX
A Lesson From Bohemia
Chapter 05
XXX
Mycroft found he was staring at the route Lestrade had taken in his quick exit. He blinked and covered his hand with his mouth. His first thought had been, well that’s new … but then he had to remind himself that maybe this wasn’t as much of as a surprise as he really thought it was. All he really knew was that he wanted to do it again.
“Da? Why did Mr. Greg leave?” Mycroft turned and looked at his son who was looking up at him for an answer.
“I believe he needs some time alone.” Mycroft smiled at his son. “And bugger off is a crude way of telling someone to go away.” It looked like Esmond had done a good job in cleaning himself off without taking a shower, that would just have to wait for home where there was a change of clothes.
“Oh, English people have a lot of funny ways to say things.” Esmond laughed. “Is Mr. Greg coming back?”
“He left his keys and jacket so I would assume so.” Mycroft looked at the time. “Why don’t you start reading that book you got the other day and I’ll finish up these cupcakes?”
“Okay.” Esmond shrugged. “Do you like Mr. Greg Da?”
Mycroft thought about it. “I do.”
“Okay then.” And Esmond went to the couch with his book-bag and pulled out his book. Mycroft watched his son for a moment. “Esmond, why do you call the Detective Inspector Mr. Greg, but you call John Dr. Watson?”
“I like Mr. Greg, he remind me of mom sometimes.” Esmond answered not looking up from his books. “And Dr. Watson is a doctor isn’t he? You have to respect Doctors.”
“Yes but you might want to practice calling him Dr. John at least, I believe he’s going to be your Aunt.” Mycroft smirked. Esmond shrugged still looking at his books.
“Okay Da.”
XXX
There were many things John would expect to be in his flat when he came back home with Sherlock. There were many things that he didn’t expect to be there but wouldn’t have surprised him if they were. But he certainly was not expecting to find his kitchen full of blue cupcakes and one flour-covered Mycroft Holmes. And he stopped so suddenly at the sight that Sherlock actually bumped into him.
“Where is Lestrade?” Sherlock looked around the flat and then glared slightly at Mycroft. “Did you do something?”
“I decided these cupcakes needed something extra for flavor.” Mycroft smirked. Sherlock’s eyes narrowed more. “I was just teasing, Sherlock.” Mycroft sighed putting down the cupcake.
“You aren’t one for teasing usually.” Sherlock replied looked over at Esmond who was reading a book, he looked back at the cupcakes. “Give up on your diet?” John sighed and went over to Esmond but Sherlock stayed in the kitchen with his brother.
“Of course not.” Mycroft frowned. He could hear John and Esmond talking in the background. “I came here to pick up my son and talk to you, I didn’t know you were starting a bakery.”
Sherlock picked up one of the cupcakes and started eating the icing off of it with his finger. “What happened to Lestrade?”
“He needed a moment alone.” Mycroft sighed, he wondered if he had ruined his relationship with the Detective Inspector.
“What did you do to him?”
Mycroft smiled at his brother. “I can assure you, you wouldn’t want to know.”
At this Sherlock’s eyes widened a bit before he put the cupcake down. “Ah.” Mycroft tried not to smirk, Sherlock always did have an active imagination. “Not that I care but you should know he’s taken himself off the case.” Mycroft nodded in thanks, so that’s why Lestrade wasn’t with Sherlock and John. He frowned he might have pressed matters a little too quickly while Lestrade was vulnerable … it didn’t make him feel great.
“This case seems to be getting more complicated.” Sherlock continued, Mycroft raised an eyebrow, it was rare when his brother would want to include him in cases so he listened. “The killer’s, there are more than two, seem to be picking the children randomly but they leave absolutely no evidence behind. Yet when I talked to the man that got arrested today because of Esmond he was so completely amateurish about the whole ordeal I wanted to strangle him myself.”
“None of his responses went along with any of my theories, his hands didn’t match any of bruises left on the murdered children and I seriously doubt he was even clever enough to tie his own shoe laces this morning.” Sherlock was pacing now. “And this London Bridge rhyme … why did they skip a verse? Is it a clue? Are they just trying to throw me off? There’s something else going on here Mycroft. Are they going to attack London Bridge? Any of the bridges in London? Why are they killing children?” Sherlock glanced at his brother who was still listening for all intents and purposes.
“It was rumored that the base of the London Bridge is to have contained orphan children.” Mycroft started icing the cupcake again.
Sherlock shook his head, “I thought of that but it still doesn’t make sense. Why are they killing children now? Why did they skip that verse?”
“Esmond are you okay?” Even thought it was spoken very softly both Mycroft and Sherlock looked over to the living room.
“My head just hurts.” Mycroft got up from the table and peeked into the living room. Esmond was rubbing his eyes with a frown.
“Why don’t you take a break?” John rubbed Esmond’s back before getting up. “Would you like some tea?”
“Milk please.” Esmond put his book to the side and lay down on the couch.
John looked up at Mycroft a put a hand on his shoulder. “Just a headache.” He whispered as he passed the man. “He just needs some rest.” Mycroft looked at his son one more time before looking back at Sherlock.
“He seems to be getting those more often.” Mycroft sighed but notice John give him a look. “I don’t think it’s anything to worry about, it’s a Holmes trait I’m afraid.” He smiled, “Thank you Doctor.”
“Oh.” Sherlock straightened before walking into his room. “Oh! I might be on to something!”
Mycroft was half-tempted to follow his brother but doing something he wouldn’t normal do seemed to be having bad effects today. So he went back to the table to finish icing the cupcakes and wondering when Lestrade would come back.
He watched as Sherlock came out of his room with a box and dropped it in a chair before sliding the chair to the wall. He then proceeded to shove all the furniture away to make a large empty area in the middle of their sitting room. Sherlock was muttering to himself darkly as he threw things out of his way.
“Watch it!” John came over and helped him move things, John being more gentle than his flatmate. “What are you doing?”
“I need to …” Sherlock didn’t finish answering as he dumped the box on the floor causing John to frown. “Get me the pictures from the crime scenes.” Sherlock motioned at John who just sighed and did as he was told. “Mycroft, was there something else?”
“Sherlock.” John sighed giving Mycroft an apologetic look as Sherlock put pieces together on the map. “Esmond probably shouldn’t see this.”
Mycroft glance at his son who was watching Sherlock with interest. He smiled sadly and looked at John. “Esmond what is your uncle doing?”
“He’s making a map.” Esmond answered quickly looking at his Da.
Mycroft shook his head. “Of what?”
“The four kids that died.” Esmond glanced back at Sherlock.
“Mycroft I don’t think that’s-” John started but Mycroft shook his head again.
“Mycroft I seriously doubt he is anything like us.” Sherlock snorted as he continued to move things around. “His mother after all was-”
“Anything but plain.” Mycroft tsked Sherlock with a small frown. “I see he’s been fooling everyone then. Acting skill, no doubt from his mother.” Mycroft had noticed what Esmond was doing. He just wanted to know why.
At that Sherlock and John both looked at Esmond who was trying to look at the map on the floor from his spot on the couch. Esmond looked at the grown men watching him, “What?”
“Esmond what do you know about the murders of the children?”
“Mycro-”
“Da?” Esmond looked at his Da confused. Mycroft nodded at him and he bit his lip. “Four kids as far as I’ve heard. Evans, Isaacs, Castle and a Henderson. Two boys and two girls. Uncle Sherlock and Dr. John are helping to find the murderer. They like to pick up kids from school.” Esmond wasn’t meeting anyone’s gaze.
“How long have you been observing?” Sherlock’s eyes narrowed and John realized that Esmond … had been paying attention to everything? He ran a hand through his hair.
“My mom told me that I shouldn’t …” Esmond looked at the ground and fidgeted. “That-that I would get taken away from her if I did … but I can’t help it.”
“Of course not.” Sherlock huffed annoyed. “What else do you know?”
Esmond looked at his Da. “I can’t stop it Da. I remember everything … I’m sorry.”
“What was the first thing I ever told you?” Sherlock spoke up getting everyone’s attention again. Esmond bit his lip and thought for a moment.
“You … said … ‘Who is this?’” Esmond bit his lip. “And then ‘Ah, the child. Why are you calling me?”
“He called you?” Mycroft looked at Sherlock who nodded.
“Two years ago.” Sherlock admitted. “I figured you would know.”
“I … just wanted a voice to go with the pictures.” Esmond looked down. “Mom was angry at me.”
“I didn’t know.” Mycroft went and sat beside his son. “I’m sorry Esmond.” He felt like … he had let his son down. And that feeling was cold … and dark … and Mycroft put his hand on his son’s back.
“Can I stop doing my homework now? I’ve been done since the first week.” Esmond looked at his Da but John started laughing causing everyone to look at him surprised.
“Dear God … another one … bloody hell …” John ran a hand through his hair.
“You should have just told me Esmond. I … understand.” Mycroft ruffled his son’s hair. And Esmond looked up surprised. “But I have a question for you” Mycroft looked at Sherlock making sure he had his attention too.
“Yes Da?”
“Esmond … was there a man …” Mycroft tried to think of a good way to word if for his son. He might be a Holmes but he was still seven. “A bad man that came to visit your mother? No one was allowed to be home when he came over?”
“This isn’t the time to worry if your mistress was faithful.” Sherlock snorted rolling his eyes.
“She would send the workers home early and maybe,” hopefully, he prayed “she would send you to your room?” He was looking in his son’s blue eyes and he realized Esmond was trembling.
“I-I I … you can’t send me back Da! Please!” Tears came from his son’s eyes as he balled his hands into fists at his sides. Mycroft watched his son alarmed. “I’ll stop observing! I promise! I learn how! I’ll stop remembering things! I -I please don’t … I don’t want to go back …”
“Esmond.” Mycroft moved so he was kneeling in front of his son. “Esmond I’m not sending you anywhere. You’re staying here with me and Uncle Sherlock in London. That’s what you want isn’t it?”
“Yes!” Esmond nodded quickly before hugging Mycroft around the shoulders tightly. “Please let me stay I’ll be good. I’ll keep being normal.”
“Esmond I don’t want you to be normal.” Mycroft rubbed his son’s back. “I just want you to be … you.” This seemed to calm his son down slightly but he was still crying against his Da’s neck.
“Is everything oka-” Everyone looked up surprised at Lestrade who entered the flat, still covered in flour. He looked at the scene in front of him. “Sorry … I heard crying and … I … sorry-” He made a move to leave again but stopped. “Wait … did he tell you?”
Mycroft held his crying son tighter. “Tell me what?”
“He said you were in danger.”
XXX
“Anthea (Mycroft remembered that was the name she had given John) is in the hospital.” Mycroft sighed as they all sat at the kitchen table. Sherlock, John and Lestrade. Esmond was upstairs sleeping in John’s bed. “I was trying to tie up loose ends his mother left behind so that no one would come looking for him when he’s older.” Mycroft ignored Sherlock’s snort.
“What happened to her?” John asked surprised. Even with that blackberry always in her hand he had believed she was one of Mycroft’s invincible secret soldiers.
“She got shot. Nothing serious but it came with a warning.” Mycroft took a drink of the cold tea, it had been warm when he had gotten it but nothing could stay warm in this sort of atmosphere. “He wants me to back off.”
“Who?” Sherlock’s eyes narrowed.
“I’m guessing it’s the same man that Esmond is afraid of.” Mycroft took a chance to look over at Lestrade who was staring hard at the table. “There are a few possibilities of who it could be, I don’t want to make a move unless I know for sure.”
“Moriarty?” Sherlock asked and it seemed as though time froze. It was a name that was unwelcome to any of their minds but Mycroft knew it haunted John’s and Sherlock’s.
“He is a possibility.” Mycroft nodded. “But he hasn’t made a move against you since the pool and this man has been … had been visiting Irene since before she met us as far as I can tell.”
“Do you think there’s a chance Irene’s accident … wasn’t an accident?” John asked warily.
“We went over it.” Sherlock shook his head. “Even interviewed the driver.”
“It was an accident.” Lestrade sighed running a hand through his hair.
“Or an extremely good cover up.” John mumbled before realizing he said it out loud. “Sorry.”
“It wouldn’t matter either way.” Mycroft sighed, “If it was an accident then fine and if it wasn’t there isn’t a way we would be able to prove it without a confession at this point.”
“He’s right.” Lestrade nodded grimly.
“He always is.” Sherlock mumbled darkly.
“Mycroft, this man that visited Irene.” John looked up at Mycroft hesitantly, he obviously didn’t want to be the one to bring this topic up. “Esmond was showing signs of abuse.”
Mycroft winced as the cup he was holding cracked. He pulled his hand away and moved back as the tea spilled on the table.
“Sorry.” Mycroft hissed and closed his eyes. John got up and was throwing the broken cup into the sink and grabbing a towel. He opened his eyes when someone gently grabbed his hand. He looked at Lestrade who wasn’t meeting his eyes.
“John do you have some plasters?” Lestrade checked Mycroft’s palm and caught the roll of plaster that John tossed him. Mycroft closed his eyes as the man bandaged his hand.
“I’m sorry John for breaking your cup.” Mycroft wondered idly if Lestrade could tell his hand was shaking.
“Forget the damn cup Mycroft.” Sherlock hit the table before standing up and pacing. “I won’t allow this … he … “
“Sherlock.” John watched his flatmate, worried.
“He’s going to regret this.” Sherlock clenched his fists.
“You focus on this case Sherlock.” Mycroft finally spoke up. “I will focus on this.” Sherlock needed to focus on the people killing children, Mycroft would focus on the threat to his family.
Sherlock sighed, running his hands through his hair. He started pacing again and John took a step back. Mycroft realized Lestrade was still holding his hand. He looked over at the man who was watching him back. Mycroft squeezed his hand before pulling his away. Lestrade looked away.
“I know I’m not officially on the case anymore but I will be here to help.” Lestrade looked at John who was watching Sherlock move around in the living room. Lestrade looked over at Mycroft who was also watching Sherlock from his seat. “Or … if you … need help with Esmond … or …” He looked down at the table nervously.
When he looked back up Mycroft was watching him. He blushed under the intense gaze. He couldn’t believe he kissed this man earlier … he had kissed Mycroft Bloody Holmes … and then ran away. What was he thinking? There’s no way … He had tried getting back on the dating/courting/whatever wagon, it never worked. But here he was staring at a man that he had practically hated for the first year of their acquaintanceship wondering what it would be like to date/court/whatever Mycroft Holmes. He was out of his depth. There was no way … the kiss had been bloody great but that didn’t mean …
There were more important things to be focusing on.
He licked his lips, “Mycroft I-”
“Would you like a ride home Detective Inspector?” Lestrade suddenly realized how late it was. He blinked. He should get home and think about this, he looked at Mycroft, he probably shouldn’t take the ride … he could use his walk to think.
“That’s okay reall-”
“I insist.” And Mycroft’s tone left little for argument. The man turned to John. “We should take our leave now, good luck.”
“You too.” John smiled tiredly and nodded at Lestrade. “You can stay here again if you want.”
Lestrade shook his head as he watched Mycroft leave to go get Esmond from upstairs. “No, thanks, I have to go home some time.” Lestrade watched Sherlock stand up and grab his violin and sit on the couch still mumbling to himself. He pretended not to notice John watching him.
“Where did you … what happened between you and Mycroft today?” John whispered and Lestrade blushed.
“Its … we … “ Lestrade shook his head. “Nothing mate, call me if you need help yeah?”
“Sure.” John nodded and looked up as Mycroft opened the door holding a sleeping Esmond.
“Would you mind grabbing my jacket?” Mycroft nodded his head to one of the moved chairs, his jacket on the back.
“Oh! Sure … Bye John … Sherlock.” Lestrade grabbed Mycroft’s jacket before following the man down the stairs and outside. There was a car waiting and the driver came out and opened the door for Mycroft. Lestrade wondered if he could get away with sitting next to the driver.
But then a hand slid into his and pulled him to the car. Lestrade looked at Mycroft, surprised, and watched the man slide into the car still holding onto his sleeping son. Lestrade sat beside him and wondered idly if he should comment about seat belts or safety. He watched as Mycroft tried to shift Esmond to a more comfortable position but seemed to be having some difficulty. He smiled.
“Here.” He leaned over and helped move Esmond’s legs to the side so his feet were in Lestrade’s lap. Esmond mumbled groggily as he buried his head into his Da’s shoulder. Mycroft relaxed, Lestrade hadn’t noticed how tense he was. He looked up at the man. “That’s better.”
“Thank you.” Mycroft smiled and Lestrade smiled back before realizing how close he was leaning to the other man. He made a move to sit back but was stopped by a hand on his neck. He blushed and gave the taller man a questioning look.
“I’m going to kiss you if that’s okay.” Mycroft leaned slightly forward.
Lestrade let out a small laugh. Everything was telling him that this was a bad idea, that he shouldn’t do this. It was Sherlock’s brother. He had just lost the mother of his child not too long ago. That he himself wasn’t ready for anything like this. That … this was crazy.
“Okay.”
It was kind of an odd angle to be kissing. Side by side being wary of the sleeping child in Mycroft’s arms. But as their lips met Lestrade tried not to shiver at the other man’s warmth. At first it was chaste, wary, testing the waters but when a tongue slid over his lip he immediately opened his mouth and let Mycroft push into him.
This had to be a bad idea. A horrible idea.
He let out a low moan as Mycroft sucked on his tongue. Lestrade wanted this. He brought his hand up warily to stroke Mycroft’s cheek as they broke for air. He let out another small laugh.
“Okay.”
He didn’t know what this was. What was he supposed to do? Did they need to talk about this? Was there anything to talk about? Well … yes … there obviously was. Lestrade didn’t just go around snogging any man dressing up like James Bond. He looked at Mycroft and loved how flushed the man looked. Still there was that nagging part in the back of his head, “I don’t think this is a good idea.” He didn’t move away though.
“I would have to agree.” Mycroft nodded causing his nose to move against Lestrade’s. “Terrible.”
“I … “ Lestrade felt the car pull to a stop and looked out the window. They were at his flat. He looked back at Mycroft. “You probably have this all figured out.” He leaned forward and pressed a light kiss against the other man’s lips. “But can you give this mortal some time to think?”
Mycroft nodded and Lestrade hoped he wasn’t taking this as rejection because it wasn’t. But … he just needed … what the hell was he doing?
He leaned forward and kissed the man again. This time hard and urgent, what the hell? It might be the last time he had a chance to snog Sherlock Holmes’ older brother, to take in the taste of tea, icing, and something that was entirely Mycroft. He let out a frustrated sigh as he released the man and got out of the car. If he didn’t leave now he wouldn’t want to.
“Greg.” Lestrade stopped and looked at the car as Mycroft rolled down a window. Mycroft looked slightly amused. “Can I have my jacket?”
Lestrade blushed realizing he was carrying it. He walked over and handed it through the window. “S-sorry.”
“See you soon.” Mycroft nodded as the car pulled away and Lestrade let out a long breath watching the car go. It wasn’t until he couldn’t see it anymore that he turned around and went into his building.
He had a lot of thinking to do.
XXX
Three more children overnight.
They broke their pattern.
Three more children and John still didn’t know how to stop it. He closed his eyes, he still hadn’t gone to bed after Lestrade, Mycroft and Esmond left last night. Sherlock wasn’t sleeping and for this case John felt like he needed to keep an extra eye on him.
Karl Leonard, Theodore Ralph, and Andrew Turner. Three seven year old boys ,all found in different locations, all with three verses near their bodies.
Build it up with iron and steel,
Iron and steel, iron and steel,
Build it up with iron and steel,
My fair lady.
Iron and steel will bend and bow,
Bend and bow, bend and bow,
Iron and steel will bend and bow,
My fair lady.
Build it up with silver and gold,
Silver and gold, silver and gold,
Build it up with silver and gold,
My fair lady.
What was the person trying to do? Play a game? John felt cold at the thought, then jumped in surprise as something hot touched his hand. He looked up at Sherlock handing him a cup of coffee. They were currently holing up in Lestrade’s office, it was easier to make sure Sherlock got all the notes from the men and women of Scotland Yard if he was nearby- when he wasn’t running from crime scene to crime scene.
“Thanks.” His voice sounded groggy as he took the cup from the taller man.
“You’re late meeting Sarah.” Sherlock walked past him and sat at Lestrade’s desk. John looked at the time and almost spit out his coffee. Sarah was going to meet him at the flat to pick up the cupcakes since John was a little busy at the moment.
“Shit.” He pulled out his phone and looked at Sherlock. “You call me if anything else happens. I should be back soon.” John jumped as his phone rang.
“Sarah? Sorry I’ll be there in a-”
“Is this Dr. John Watson?” John stilled.
“Yes, who is?”
“I’m sorry sir I’m calling about Esmond Adler-Holmes. I’ve tried to get in touch with his father but we haven’t been able to reach him. You were the next contact.” John gave Sherlock a confused look. It made sense that Mycroft would put him next as he was more reliable in answering his phone. What didn’t make sense was the fact they couldn’t get a hold of Mycroft.
“Y-yes, I’m sorry did something happen? Is he okay?” John leaned closer to Sherlock so he could listen in on the call.
“He got in a fight today at school and we need you to come pick him up.” The woman on the phone sighed. “We can keep trying to reach his father-”
“I’ll come pick him up.” John looked at Sherlock. “I’m coming now.”
“Thank you Dr. Watson.” John sighed as he hung up the phone, he looked at Sherlock.
“I need to go get Esmond from school, he got in a fight and they can’t get Mycroft.” John shot Sherlock a worried look as he grabbed his jacket. Sherlock in turn also looked slightly worried about his brother being unavailable. “Sherlock I’m sure Mycroft’s fine.”
“Of course he is.” Sherlock rolled his eyes. “Probably off planning some government conspiracies while we speak.” He stopped John from leaving by grabbing his hand. “Be careful.”
John smiled before pulling away. He called Sarah while he left Scotland Yard and hailed a cab. “Sarah, its John. I’m sorry about … oh Mrs. Hudson let you in? Oh good. Sorry about that. Okay good luck.”
He sighed as the cab took him to Esmond’s school. That worked out better than he thought it would. He would have to find a way to thank Mrs. Hudson. He had forgotten she was coming back into town today.
Walking into Esmond’s school was strange; he couldn’t remember the last time he had been in a school like it. He was thankful that the office was up front and also glad to see a few Constables keeping watch over the area. He walked into the office and saw Esmond sitting in a chair looking upset with a black eye. He looked up when John came in.
“Dr. John?”
“Stay seated Mr. Adler-Holmes.” A stern woman came out of the office and frowned at Esmond who crossed his arms but stayed seated. She looked at John. “A moment of your time Dr. Watson.”
John quickly followed her to her office and gave Esmond a small smile before the door closed.
“I know you’re not Mr. Holmes.” The woman started with a sigh, “but as a family friend I was wondering if you could answer a few questions.”
“I’ll answer what I can.” John offered her a smile but stayed standing when she moved behind her desk.
“I was wondering what his home life is like? I know he just lost his mother recently and he’s a bright kid.” John wondered if she knew how smart he actually was. He gave her an apologetic smile.
“I really don’t think it’s my place but you should know that his father loves him very much. And his uncle and I do too.” John looked at her seriously. “I don’t know what you think is-”
“I’m sorry that’s not what I …” She raised her hand and smiled at John. “No and I know things are different from what he was used to in America.”
“What was the fight about?” John asked wanted to change the subject, he didn’t think it was appropriate for him to be answering those questions.
“Some of the kids were singing London Bridge.” She sighed, “I’m sure you’re aware of the murders …”
“Very.” John nodded grimly.
“Most stay at home parents are keeping their kids home for the time being but there are parents who work, well, anyway kids were playing the game and he told them to stop.” She gave John a strange look. “He told them that if they didn’t stop they would bring a monster to them, and when they didn’t he started to fight. Do you know what he’s talking about?”
“I’m afraid I have no idea.” John crossed his arms trying to think. “But I will mention it to his Da.” It felt weird referring to Mycroft as Da, but considering where he was, he thought it was only appropriate.
“I’m sorry for keeping you Dr. Watson,” She smiled, ‘It’s just that none of us expected this kind of behavior from him.”
“I assure you I’m surprised as well.” John ran a hand through his hair as he opened the door. “Thank you.” He looked up to see Esmond was watching him back. John smiled as he got out of his seat and ready to go, he knelt in front of the boy wincing at the black eye. “That’s a good one.”
“It doesn’t hurt so bad anymore.” Esmond mumbled taking John’s hand. “Can we please go now?”
“Yes.” John squeezed his hand and led him out of the school in silence. It wasn’t until they crossed the street in front of the school that anyone spoke.
“Where is Da?” Esmond sounded really upset and John bit his lip.
“He’s just a little busy Esmond.” He squeezed his hand. “You wanna tell me why you fought some kids over a game?”
“It’s not a game!” Esmond looked up at John surprised. “It’s not a game! That song … “
“Is it because of what’s happening to the kids that died?” John squeezed his hand. He was surprised when Esmond shook his head. “What is it then?”
He shook his head again.
“The monster?” John tried but then Esmond froze and was squeezing his hand really hard. “Esmond what-”
“He always sings that song. If people sing that song then he’s going to show up. He’s a bad man. He’s a monster. He hurt mommy.” Esmond was speaking quietly and quickly, squeezing John’s hand tighter. “She didn’t like him. He hurt me. He hurt Mom and he’s going to hurt Da and -”
“Esmond?” John got to his knees and squeezed his hands. “Esmond it’s okay, it’s going to be okay, no-one is going to-” He stopped as Esmond gasped and his eyes went wide, his whole body tensing. John immediately stood and spun around.
There standing across the street was Jim Moriarty.
“It’s him.” Esmond mumbled squeezing John’s hand and shaking it. “It’s him.”
John looked around for a place to run, he had to get Esmond away from Moriarty. His mind was rushing with the new information. It had been a possibility that it had been him. He looked to the side but then there was something hard pressing against his back and a small click of a pistol. He grit his teeth.
“Nothing fancy doc.” A low voice mumbled.
“Why hello there Doctor.” Moriarty smiled as he stepped in front of John. “I see you’ve met Seb, he’s such a good pet.” Jim smiled nicely. The man, Seb, behind John pressed the gun against his back harder. Esmond let out a small whimper and John squeezed his hand, hoping to be comforting.
“What do you want?” he growled. If anything Moriarty’s smile got more sinister as he laughed amused.
“Always to business so quickly.” He chuckled glancing at Esmond. “I hope you aren’t learning any bad manners from him Esmond, it has been so long since the last time I was able to see you.” At this Moriarty put a hand on Esmond’s shoulder and the boy froze stiff, squeezing John’s hand as if his life depended on it. John watched as Moriarty slid his hand to Esmond’s neck wrapping his thumb around it as if measuring.
“If you keep growing like this I’m going to have to use two hands!” Jim exclaimed excited. Esmond let out a small pained noise. John’s eyes widened and he let out a small growl. Moriarty smirked sliding his hand away from Esmond. “Oh I but I guess we don’t have time to play do we? I just wanted to say hello to my friend Johnny-boy, is that okay with you?” Moriarty paused before leaning over to Esmond and in a mock-whisper, “It was nice seeing you again Esmond, I do hope we get to see each other soon.”
He stood up and smoothed out his suit with a smile. “John, do tell Sherlock hello for me. I believe he’s waiting for you at home.” A car pulled up and he got in and with a small wave the car pulled away. John squeezed Esmond’s hand as the gun against his back pressed harder against him.
“He must pay well.” John muttered angrily.
“You have no idea.” And then the pressure against his back was gone, John spun around just as a group of people walked by, he cursed. He heard a small whimper and looked at Esmond who seemed to be barely holding himself together.
“Esmond it’s going to be okay.” John picked him up pressing the boy’s head against his neck as he moved as fast as he could to get to 221B Baker Street. He rubbed Esmond’s neck above his book-bag soothingly as he moved glancing around every once in a while. Though he supposed it didn’t matter, Moriarty knew where he was going. He was never more thankful to see the door that led to their flat.
He ran inside, shutting the door and locking it before running up the stairs. “Sherlock!” He swung the door open and let out a breath of relief at the sight of Sherlock and Mycroft, who both looked at him in surprise.
“Da!” Esmond jumped out of John’s arms and ran over to his Da. No longer carrying the kid, John’s legs decided to give out, so he was very thankful for Sherlock catching him and helping him to a chair as he gasped for air.
“He’s here. Moriarty.” John grabbed Sherlock’s hands looking up at him worried. Sherlock looked back at John sadly.
“We know.”
XXX
Chapter 06
XXX
dun dun dunnnnn
Chapter: 05/08
Betas/Brits: None! But if you want let me know! <3
Rating: PG:13 (R later chapters)
Pairings: MH/GL, SH/JW
Wordcount:
Warnings: Character Death, M/M
Disclaimer: This story is based off of this prompt from the kink meme. Will eventually contain mentions of child abuse, gay sex, violence and whumpage.
Chapter 01, Chapter 02, Chapter 03, Chapter 04
Special thanks to tiasworld for being an awesome beta!! <3
XXX
A Lesson From Bohemia
Chapter 05
XXX
Mycroft found he was staring at the route Lestrade had taken in his quick exit. He blinked and covered his hand with his mouth. His first thought had been, well that’s new … but then he had to remind himself that maybe this wasn’t as much of as a surprise as he really thought it was. All he really knew was that he wanted to do it again.
“Da? Why did Mr. Greg leave?” Mycroft turned and looked at his son who was looking up at him for an answer.
“I believe he needs some time alone.” Mycroft smiled at his son. “And bugger off is a crude way of telling someone to go away.” It looked like Esmond had done a good job in cleaning himself off without taking a shower, that would just have to wait for home where there was a change of clothes.
“Oh, English people have a lot of funny ways to say things.” Esmond laughed. “Is Mr. Greg coming back?”
“He left his keys and jacket so I would assume so.” Mycroft looked at the time. “Why don’t you start reading that book you got the other day and I’ll finish up these cupcakes?”
“Okay.” Esmond shrugged. “Do you like Mr. Greg Da?”
Mycroft thought about it. “I do.”
“Okay then.” And Esmond went to the couch with his book-bag and pulled out his book. Mycroft watched his son for a moment. “Esmond, why do you call the Detective Inspector Mr. Greg, but you call John Dr. Watson?”
“I like Mr. Greg, he remind me of mom sometimes.” Esmond answered not looking up from his books. “And Dr. Watson is a doctor isn’t he? You have to respect Doctors.”
“Yes but you might want to practice calling him Dr. John at least, I believe he’s going to be your Aunt.” Mycroft smirked. Esmond shrugged still looking at his books.
“Okay Da.”
XXX
There were many things John would expect to be in his flat when he came back home with Sherlock. There were many things that he didn’t expect to be there but wouldn’t have surprised him if they were. But he certainly was not expecting to find his kitchen full of blue cupcakes and one flour-covered Mycroft Holmes. And he stopped so suddenly at the sight that Sherlock actually bumped into him.
“Where is Lestrade?” Sherlock looked around the flat and then glared slightly at Mycroft. “Did you do something?”
“I decided these cupcakes needed something extra for flavor.” Mycroft smirked. Sherlock’s eyes narrowed more. “I was just teasing, Sherlock.” Mycroft sighed putting down the cupcake.
“You aren’t one for teasing usually.” Sherlock replied looked over at Esmond who was reading a book, he looked back at the cupcakes. “Give up on your diet?” John sighed and went over to Esmond but Sherlock stayed in the kitchen with his brother.
“Of course not.” Mycroft frowned. He could hear John and Esmond talking in the background. “I came here to pick up my son and talk to you, I didn’t know you were starting a bakery.”
Sherlock picked up one of the cupcakes and started eating the icing off of it with his finger. “What happened to Lestrade?”
“He needed a moment alone.” Mycroft sighed, he wondered if he had ruined his relationship with the Detective Inspector.
“What did you do to him?”
Mycroft smiled at his brother. “I can assure you, you wouldn’t want to know.”
At this Sherlock’s eyes widened a bit before he put the cupcake down. “Ah.” Mycroft tried not to smirk, Sherlock always did have an active imagination. “Not that I care but you should know he’s taken himself off the case.” Mycroft nodded in thanks, so that’s why Lestrade wasn’t with Sherlock and John. He frowned he might have pressed matters a little too quickly while Lestrade was vulnerable … it didn’t make him feel great.
“This case seems to be getting more complicated.” Sherlock continued, Mycroft raised an eyebrow, it was rare when his brother would want to include him in cases so he listened. “The killer’s, there are more than two, seem to be picking the children randomly but they leave absolutely no evidence behind. Yet when I talked to the man that got arrested today because of Esmond he was so completely amateurish about the whole ordeal I wanted to strangle him myself.”
“None of his responses went along with any of my theories, his hands didn’t match any of bruises left on the murdered children and I seriously doubt he was even clever enough to tie his own shoe laces this morning.” Sherlock was pacing now. “And this London Bridge rhyme … why did they skip a verse? Is it a clue? Are they just trying to throw me off? There’s something else going on here Mycroft. Are they going to attack London Bridge? Any of the bridges in London? Why are they killing children?” Sherlock glanced at his brother who was still listening for all intents and purposes.
“It was rumored that the base of the London Bridge is to have contained orphan children.” Mycroft started icing the cupcake again.
Sherlock shook his head, “I thought of that but it still doesn’t make sense. Why are they killing children now? Why did they skip that verse?”
“Esmond are you okay?” Even thought it was spoken very softly both Mycroft and Sherlock looked over to the living room.
“My head just hurts.” Mycroft got up from the table and peeked into the living room. Esmond was rubbing his eyes with a frown.
“Why don’t you take a break?” John rubbed Esmond’s back before getting up. “Would you like some tea?”
“Milk please.” Esmond put his book to the side and lay down on the couch.
John looked up at Mycroft a put a hand on his shoulder. “Just a headache.” He whispered as he passed the man. “He just needs some rest.” Mycroft looked at his son one more time before looking back at Sherlock.
“He seems to be getting those more often.” Mycroft sighed but notice John give him a look. “I don’t think it’s anything to worry about, it’s a Holmes trait I’m afraid.” He smiled, “Thank you Doctor.”
“Oh.” Sherlock straightened before walking into his room. “Oh! I might be on to something!”
Mycroft was half-tempted to follow his brother but doing something he wouldn’t normal do seemed to be having bad effects today. So he went back to the table to finish icing the cupcakes and wondering when Lestrade would come back.
He watched as Sherlock came out of his room with a box and dropped it in a chair before sliding the chair to the wall. He then proceeded to shove all the furniture away to make a large empty area in the middle of their sitting room. Sherlock was muttering to himself darkly as he threw things out of his way.
“Watch it!” John came over and helped him move things, John being more gentle than his flatmate. “What are you doing?”
“I need to …” Sherlock didn’t finish answering as he dumped the box on the floor causing John to frown. “Get me the pictures from the crime scenes.” Sherlock motioned at John who just sighed and did as he was told. “Mycroft, was there something else?”
“Sherlock.” John sighed giving Mycroft an apologetic look as Sherlock put pieces together on the map. “Esmond probably shouldn’t see this.”
Mycroft glance at his son who was watching Sherlock with interest. He smiled sadly and looked at John. “Esmond what is your uncle doing?”
“He’s making a map.” Esmond answered quickly looking at his Da.
Mycroft shook his head. “Of what?”
“The four kids that died.” Esmond glanced back at Sherlock.
“Mycroft I don’t think that’s-” John started but Mycroft shook his head again.
“Mycroft I seriously doubt he is anything like us.” Sherlock snorted as he continued to move things around. “His mother after all was-”
“Anything but plain.” Mycroft tsked Sherlock with a small frown. “I see he’s been fooling everyone then. Acting skill, no doubt from his mother.” Mycroft had noticed what Esmond was doing. He just wanted to know why.
At that Sherlock and John both looked at Esmond who was trying to look at the map on the floor from his spot on the couch. Esmond looked at the grown men watching him, “What?”
“Esmond what do you know about the murders of the children?”
“Mycro-”
“Da?” Esmond looked at his Da confused. Mycroft nodded at him and he bit his lip. “Four kids as far as I’ve heard. Evans, Isaacs, Castle and a Henderson. Two boys and two girls. Uncle Sherlock and Dr. John are helping to find the murderer. They like to pick up kids from school.” Esmond wasn’t meeting anyone’s gaze.
“How long have you been observing?” Sherlock’s eyes narrowed and John realized that Esmond … had been paying attention to everything? He ran a hand through his hair.
“My mom told me that I shouldn’t …” Esmond looked at the ground and fidgeted. “That-that I would get taken away from her if I did … but I can’t help it.”
“Of course not.” Sherlock huffed annoyed. “What else do you know?”
Esmond looked at his Da. “I can’t stop it Da. I remember everything … I’m sorry.”
“What was the first thing I ever told you?” Sherlock spoke up getting everyone’s attention again. Esmond bit his lip and thought for a moment.
“You … said … ‘Who is this?’” Esmond bit his lip. “And then ‘Ah, the child. Why are you calling me?”
“He called you?” Mycroft looked at Sherlock who nodded.
“Two years ago.” Sherlock admitted. “I figured you would know.”
“I … just wanted a voice to go with the pictures.” Esmond looked down. “Mom was angry at me.”
“I didn’t know.” Mycroft went and sat beside his son. “I’m sorry Esmond.” He felt like … he had let his son down. And that feeling was cold … and dark … and Mycroft put his hand on his son’s back.
“Can I stop doing my homework now? I’ve been done since the first week.” Esmond looked at his Da but John started laughing causing everyone to look at him surprised.
“Dear God … another one … bloody hell …” John ran a hand through his hair.
“You should have just told me Esmond. I … understand.” Mycroft ruffled his son’s hair. And Esmond looked up surprised. “But I have a question for you” Mycroft looked at Sherlock making sure he had his attention too.
“Yes Da?”
“Esmond … was there a man …” Mycroft tried to think of a good way to word if for his son. He might be a Holmes but he was still seven. “A bad man that came to visit your mother? No one was allowed to be home when he came over?”
“This isn’t the time to worry if your mistress was faithful.” Sherlock snorted rolling his eyes.
“She would send the workers home early and maybe,” hopefully, he prayed “she would send you to your room?” He was looking in his son’s blue eyes and he realized Esmond was trembling.
“I-I I … you can’t send me back Da! Please!” Tears came from his son’s eyes as he balled his hands into fists at his sides. Mycroft watched his son alarmed. “I’ll stop observing! I promise! I learn how! I’ll stop remembering things! I -I please don’t … I don’t want to go back …”
“Esmond.” Mycroft moved so he was kneeling in front of his son. “Esmond I’m not sending you anywhere. You’re staying here with me and Uncle Sherlock in London. That’s what you want isn’t it?”
“Yes!” Esmond nodded quickly before hugging Mycroft around the shoulders tightly. “Please let me stay I’ll be good. I’ll keep being normal.”
“Esmond I don’t want you to be normal.” Mycroft rubbed his son’s back. “I just want you to be … you.” This seemed to calm his son down slightly but he was still crying against his Da’s neck.
“Is everything oka-” Everyone looked up surprised at Lestrade who entered the flat, still covered in flour. He looked at the scene in front of him. “Sorry … I heard crying and … I … sorry-” He made a move to leave again but stopped. “Wait … did he tell you?”
Mycroft held his crying son tighter. “Tell me what?”
“He said you were in danger.”
XXX
“Anthea (Mycroft remembered that was the name she had given John) is in the hospital.” Mycroft sighed as they all sat at the kitchen table. Sherlock, John and Lestrade. Esmond was upstairs sleeping in John’s bed. “I was trying to tie up loose ends his mother left behind so that no one would come looking for him when he’s older.” Mycroft ignored Sherlock’s snort.
“What happened to her?” John asked surprised. Even with that blackberry always in her hand he had believed she was one of Mycroft’s invincible secret soldiers.
“She got shot. Nothing serious but it came with a warning.” Mycroft took a drink of the cold tea, it had been warm when he had gotten it but nothing could stay warm in this sort of atmosphere. “He wants me to back off.”
“Who?” Sherlock’s eyes narrowed.
“I’m guessing it’s the same man that Esmond is afraid of.” Mycroft took a chance to look over at Lestrade who was staring hard at the table. “There are a few possibilities of who it could be, I don’t want to make a move unless I know for sure.”
“Moriarty?” Sherlock asked and it seemed as though time froze. It was a name that was unwelcome to any of their minds but Mycroft knew it haunted John’s and Sherlock’s.
“He is a possibility.” Mycroft nodded. “But he hasn’t made a move against you since the pool and this man has been … had been visiting Irene since before she met us as far as I can tell.”
“Do you think there’s a chance Irene’s accident … wasn’t an accident?” John asked warily.
“We went over it.” Sherlock shook his head. “Even interviewed the driver.”
“It was an accident.” Lestrade sighed running a hand through his hair.
“Or an extremely good cover up.” John mumbled before realizing he said it out loud. “Sorry.”
“It wouldn’t matter either way.” Mycroft sighed, “If it was an accident then fine and if it wasn’t there isn’t a way we would be able to prove it without a confession at this point.”
“He’s right.” Lestrade nodded grimly.
“He always is.” Sherlock mumbled darkly.
“Mycroft, this man that visited Irene.” John looked up at Mycroft hesitantly, he obviously didn’t want to be the one to bring this topic up. “Esmond was showing signs of abuse.”
Mycroft winced as the cup he was holding cracked. He pulled his hand away and moved back as the tea spilled on the table.
“Sorry.” Mycroft hissed and closed his eyes. John got up and was throwing the broken cup into the sink and grabbing a towel. He opened his eyes when someone gently grabbed his hand. He looked at Lestrade who wasn’t meeting his eyes.
“John do you have some plasters?” Lestrade checked Mycroft’s palm and caught the roll of plaster that John tossed him. Mycroft closed his eyes as the man bandaged his hand.
“I’m sorry John for breaking your cup.” Mycroft wondered idly if Lestrade could tell his hand was shaking.
“Forget the damn cup Mycroft.” Sherlock hit the table before standing up and pacing. “I won’t allow this … he … “
“Sherlock.” John watched his flatmate, worried.
“He’s going to regret this.” Sherlock clenched his fists.
“You focus on this case Sherlock.” Mycroft finally spoke up. “I will focus on this.” Sherlock needed to focus on the people killing children, Mycroft would focus on the threat to his family.
Sherlock sighed, running his hands through his hair. He started pacing again and John took a step back. Mycroft realized Lestrade was still holding his hand. He looked over at the man who was watching him back. Mycroft squeezed his hand before pulling his away. Lestrade looked away.
“I know I’m not officially on the case anymore but I will be here to help.” Lestrade looked at John who was watching Sherlock move around in the living room. Lestrade looked over at Mycroft who was also watching Sherlock from his seat. “Or … if you … need help with Esmond … or …” He looked down at the table nervously.
When he looked back up Mycroft was watching him. He blushed under the intense gaze. He couldn’t believe he kissed this man earlier … he had kissed Mycroft Bloody Holmes … and then ran away. What was he thinking? There’s no way … He had tried getting back on the dating/courting/whatever wagon, it never worked. But here he was staring at a man that he had practically hated for the first year of their acquaintanceship wondering what it would be like to date/court/whatever Mycroft Holmes. He was out of his depth. There was no way … the kiss had been bloody great but that didn’t mean …
There were more important things to be focusing on.
He licked his lips, “Mycroft I-”
“Would you like a ride home Detective Inspector?” Lestrade suddenly realized how late it was. He blinked. He should get home and think about this, he looked at Mycroft, he probably shouldn’t take the ride … he could use his walk to think.
“That’s okay reall-”
“I insist.” And Mycroft’s tone left little for argument. The man turned to John. “We should take our leave now, good luck.”
“You too.” John smiled tiredly and nodded at Lestrade. “You can stay here again if you want.”
Lestrade shook his head as he watched Mycroft leave to go get Esmond from upstairs. “No, thanks, I have to go home some time.” Lestrade watched Sherlock stand up and grab his violin and sit on the couch still mumbling to himself. He pretended not to notice John watching him.
“Where did you … what happened between you and Mycroft today?” John whispered and Lestrade blushed.
“Its … we … “ Lestrade shook his head. “Nothing mate, call me if you need help yeah?”
“Sure.” John nodded and looked up as Mycroft opened the door holding a sleeping Esmond.
“Would you mind grabbing my jacket?” Mycroft nodded his head to one of the moved chairs, his jacket on the back.
“Oh! Sure … Bye John … Sherlock.” Lestrade grabbed Mycroft’s jacket before following the man down the stairs and outside. There was a car waiting and the driver came out and opened the door for Mycroft. Lestrade wondered if he could get away with sitting next to the driver.
But then a hand slid into his and pulled him to the car. Lestrade looked at Mycroft, surprised, and watched the man slide into the car still holding onto his sleeping son. Lestrade sat beside him and wondered idly if he should comment about seat belts or safety. He watched as Mycroft tried to shift Esmond to a more comfortable position but seemed to be having some difficulty. He smiled.
“Here.” He leaned over and helped move Esmond’s legs to the side so his feet were in Lestrade’s lap. Esmond mumbled groggily as he buried his head into his Da’s shoulder. Mycroft relaxed, Lestrade hadn’t noticed how tense he was. He looked up at the man. “That’s better.”
“Thank you.” Mycroft smiled and Lestrade smiled back before realizing how close he was leaning to the other man. He made a move to sit back but was stopped by a hand on his neck. He blushed and gave the taller man a questioning look.
“I’m going to kiss you if that’s okay.” Mycroft leaned slightly forward.
Lestrade let out a small laugh. Everything was telling him that this was a bad idea, that he shouldn’t do this. It was Sherlock’s brother. He had just lost the mother of his child not too long ago. That he himself wasn’t ready for anything like this. That … this was crazy.
“Okay.”
It was kind of an odd angle to be kissing. Side by side being wary of the sleeping child in Mycroft’s arms. But as their lips met Lestrade tried not to shiver at the other man’s warmth. At first it was chaste, wary, testing the waters but when a tongue slid over his lip he immediately opened his mouth and let Mycroft push into him.
This had to be a bad idea. A horrible idea.
He let out a low moan as Mycroft sucked on his tongue. Lestrade wanted this. He brought his hand up warily to stroke Mycroft’s cheek as they broke for air. He let out another small laugh.
“Okay.”
He didn’t know what this was. What was he supposed to do? Did they need to talk about this? Was there anything to talk about? Well … yes … there obviously was. Lestrade didn’t just go around snogging any man dressing up like James Bond. He looked at Mycroft and loved how flushed the man looked. Still there was that nagging part in the back of his head, “I don’t think this is a good idea.” He didn’t move away though.
“I would have to agree.” Mycroft nodded causing his nose to move against Lestrade’s. “Terrible.”
“I … “ Lestrade felt the car pull to a stop and looked out the window. They were at his flat. He looked back at Mycroft. “You probably have this all figured out.” He leaned forward and pressed a light kiss against the other man’s lips. “But can you give this mortal some time to think?”
Mycroft nodded and Lestrade hoped he wasn’t taking this as rejection because it wasn’t. But … he just needed … what the hell was he doing?
He leaned forward and kissed the man again. This time hard and urgent, what the hell? It might be the last time he had a chance to snog Sherlock Holmes’ older brother, to take in the taste of tea, icing, and something that was entirely Mycroft. He let out a frustrated sigh as he released the man and got out of the car. If he didn’t leave now he wouldn’t want to.
“Greg.” Lestrade stopped and looked at the car as Mycroft rolled down a window. Mycroft looked slightly amused. “Can I have my jacket?”
Lestrade blushed realizing he was carrying it. He walked over and handed it through the window. “S-sorry.”
“See you soon.” Mycroft nodded as the car pulled away and Lestrade let out a long breath watching the car go. It wasn’t until he couldn’t see it anymore that he turned around and went into his building.
He had a lot of thinking to do.
XXX
Three more children overnight.
They broke their pattern.
Three more children and John still didn’t know how to stop it. He closed his eyes, he still hadn’t gone to bed after Lestrade, Mycroft and Esmond left last night. Sherlock wasn’t sleeping and for this case John felt like he needed to keep an extra eye on him.
Karl Leonard, Theodore Ralph, and Andrew Turner. Three seven year old boys ,all found in different locations, all with three verses near their bodies.
Build it up with iron and steel,
Iron and steel, iron and steel,
Build it up with iron and steel,
My fair lady.
Iron and steel will bend and bow,
Bend and bow, bend and bow,
Iron and steel will bend and bow,
My fair lady.
Build it up with silver and gold,
Silver and gold, silver and gold,
Build it up with silver and gold,
My fair lady.
What was the person trying to do? Play a game? John felt cold at the thought, then jumped in surprise as something hot touched his hand. He looked up at Sherlock handing him a cup of coffee. They were currently holing up in Lestrade’s office, it was easier to make sure Sherlock got all the notes from the men and women of Scotland Yard if he was nearby- when he wasn’t running from crime scene to crime scene.
“Thanks.” His voice sounded groggy as he took the cup from the taller man.
“You’re late meeting Sarah.” Sherlock walked past him and sat at Lestrade’s desk. John looked at the time and almost spit out his coffee. Sarah was going to meet him at the flat to pick up the cupcakes since John was a little busy at the moment.
“Shit.” He pulled out his phone and looked at Sherlock. “You call me if anything else happens. I should be back soon.” John jumped as his phone rang.
“Sarah? Sorry I’ll be there in a-”
“Is this Dr. John Watson?” John stilled.
“Yes, who is?”
“I’m sorry sir I’m calling about Esmond Adler-Holmes. I’ve tried to get in touch with his father but we haven’t been able to reach him. You were the next contact.” John gave Sherlock a confused look. It made sense that Mycroft would put him next as he was more reliable in answering his phone. What didn’t make sense was the fact they couldn’t get a hold of Mycroft.
“Y-yes, I’m sorry did something happen? Is he okay?” John leaned closer to Sherlock so he could listen in on the call.
“He got in a fight today at school and we need you to come pick him up.” The woman on the phone sighed. “We can keep trying to reach his father-”
“I’ll come pick him up.” John looked at Sherlock. “I’m coming now.”
“Thank you Dr. Watson.” John sighed as he hung up the phone, he looked at Sherlock.
“I need to go get Esmond from school, he got in a fight and they can’t get Mycroft.” John shot Sherlock a worried look as he grabbed his jacket. Sherlock in turn also looked slightly worried about his brother being unavailable. “Sherlock I’m sure Mycroft’s fine.”
“Of course he is.” Sherlock rolled his eyes. “Probably off planning some government conspiracies while we speak.” He stopped John from leaving by grabbing his hand. “Be careful.”
John smiled before pulling away. He called Sarah while he left Scotland Yard and hailed a cab. “Sarah, its John. I’m sorry about … oh Mrs. Hudson let you in? Oh good. Sorry about that. Okay good luck.”
He sighed as the cab took him to Esmond’s school. That worked out better than he thought it would. He would have to find a way to thank Mrs. Hudson. He had forgotten she was coming back into town today.
Walking into Esmond’s school was strange; he couldn’t remember the last time he had been in a school like it. He was thankful that the office was up front and also glad to see a few Constables keeping watch over the area. He walked into the office and saw Esmond sitting in a chair looking upset with a black eye. He looked up when John came in.
“Dr. John?”
“Stay seated Mr. Adler-Holmes.” A stern woman came out of the office and frowned at Esmond who crossed his arms but stayed seated. She looked at John. “A moment of your time Dr. Watson.”
John quickly followed her to her office and gave Esmond a small smile before the door closed.
“I know you’re not Mr. Holmes.” The woman started with a sigh, “but as a family friend I was wondering if you could answer a few questions.”
“I’ll answer what I can.” John offered her a smile but stayed standing when she moved behind her desk.
“I was wondering what his home life is like? I know he just lost his mother recently and he’s a bright kid.” John wondered if she knew how smart he actually was. He gave her an apologetic smile.
“I really don’t think it’s my place but you should know that his father loves him very much. And his uncle and I do too.” John looked at her seriously. “I don’t know what you think is-”
“I’m sorry that’s not what I …” She raised her hand and smiled at John. “No and I know things are different from what he was used to in America.”
“What was the fight about?” John asked wanted to change the subject, he didn’t think it was appropriate for him to be answering those questions.
“Some of the kids were singing London Bridge.” She sighed, “I’m sure you’re aware of the murders …”
“Very.” John nodded grimly.
“Most stay at home parents are keeping their kids home for the time being but there are parents who work, well, anyway kids were playing the game and he told them to stop.” She gave John a strange look. “He told them that if they didn’t stop they would bring a monster to them, and when they didn’t he started to fight. Do you know what he’s talking about?”
“I’m afraid I have no idea.” John crossed his arms trying to think. “But I will mention it to his Da.” It felt weird referring to Mycroft as Da, but considering where he was, he thought it was only appropriate.
“I’m sorry for keeping you Dr. Watson,” She smiled, ‘It’s just that none of us expected this kind of behavior from him.”
“I assure you I’m surprised as well.” John ran a hand through his hair as he opened the door. “Thank you.” He looked up to see Esmond was watching him back. John smiled as he got out of his seat and ready to go, he knelt in front of the boy wincing at the black eye. “That’s a good one.”
“It doesn’t hurt so bad anymore.” Esmond mumbled taking John’s hand. “Can we please go now?”
“Yes.” John squeezed his hand and led him out of the school in silence. It wasn’t until they crossed the street in front of the school that anyone spoke.
“Where is Da?” Esmond sounded really upset and John bit his lip.
“He’s just a little busy Esmond.” He squeezed his hand. “You wanna tell me why you fought some kids over a game?”
“It’s not a game!” Esmond looked up at John surprised. “It’s not a game! That song … “
“Is it because of what’s happening to the kids that died?” John squeezed his hand. He was surprised when Esmond shook his head. “What is it then?”
He shook his head again.
“The monster?” John tried but then Esmond froze and was squeezing his hand really hard. “Esmond what-”
“He always sings that song. If people sing that song then he’s going to show up. He’s a bad man. He’s a monster. He hurt mommy.” Esmond was speaking quietly and quickly, squeezing John’s hand tighter. “She didn’t like him. He hurt me. He hurt Mom and he’s going to hurt Da and -”
“Esmond?” John got to his knees and squeezed his hands. “Esmond it’s okay, it’s going to be okay, no-one is going to-” He stopped as Esmond gasped and his eyes went wide, his whole body tensing. John immediately stood and spun around.
There standing across the street was Jim Moriarty.
“It’s him.” Esmond mumbled squeezing John’s hand and shaking it. “It’s him.”
John looked around for a place to run, he had to get Esmond away from Moriarty. His mind was rushing with the new information. It had been a possibility that it had been him. He looked to the side but then there was something hard pressing against his back and a small click of a pistol. He grit his teeth.
“Nothing fancy doc.” A low voice mumbled.
“Why hello there Doctor.” Moriarty smiled as he stepped in front of John. “I see you’ve met Seb, he’s such a good pet.” Jim smiled nicely. The man, Seb, behind John pressed the gun against his back harder. Esmond let out a small whimper and John squeezed his hand, hoping to be comforting.
“What do you want?” he growled. If anything Moriarty’s smile got more sinister as he laughed amused.
“Always to business so quickly.” He chuckled glancing at Esmond. “I hope you aren’t learning any bad manners from him Esmond, it has been so long since the last time I was able to see you.” At this Moriarty put a hand on Esmond’s shoulder and the boy froze stiff, squeezing John’s hand as if his life depended on it. John watched as Moriarty slid his hand to Esmond’s neck wrapping his thumb around it as if measuring.
“If you keep growing like this I’m going to have to use two hands!” Jim exclaimed excited. Esmond let out a small pained noise. John’s eyes widened and he let out a small growl. Moriarty smirked sliding his hand away from Esmond. “Oh I but I guess we don’t have time to play do we? I just wanted to say hello to my friend Johnny-boy, is that okay with you?” Moriarty paused before leaning over to Esmond and in a mock-whisper, “It was nice seeing you again Esmond, I do hope we get to see each other soon.”
He stood up and smoothed out his suit with a smile. “John, do tell Sherlock hello for me. I believe he’s waiting for you at home.” A car pulled up and he got in and with a small wave the car pulled away. John squeezed Esmond’s hand as the gun against his back pressed harder against him.
“He must pay well.” John muttered angrily.
“You have no idea.” And then the pressure against his back was gone, John spun around just as a group of people walked by, he cursed. He heard a small whimper and looked at Esmond who seemed to be barely holding himself together.
“Esmond it’s going to be okay.” John picked him up pressing the boy’s head against his neck as he moved as fast as he could to get to 221B Baker Street. He rubbed Esmond’s neck above his book-bag soothingly as he moved glancing around every once in a while. Though he supposed it didn’t matter, Moriarty knew where he was going. He was never more thankful to see the door that led to their flat.
He ran inside, shutting the door and locking it before running up the stairs. “Sherlock!” He swung the door open and let out a breath of relief at the sight of Sherlock and Mycroft, who both looked at him in surprise.
“Da!” Esmond jumped out of John’s arms and ran over to his Da. No longer carrying the kid, John’s legs decided to give out, so he was very thankful for Sherlock catching him and helping him to a chair as he gasped for air.
“He’s here. Moriarty.” John grabbed Sherlock’s hands looking up at him worried. Sherlock looked back at John sadly.
“We know.”
XXX
Chapter 06
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