Prompting Part XXVII

[sherlockbbc_fic]

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[anonymous]

Mycroft had a file on Anderson. Mycroft had a file on everyone Sherlock came into contact with on a regular basis. After Sherlock took up calling him “Anderson”-presumably as a new insult-Mycroft thought it best to review that file.

There wasn’t anything particularly odd about the fellow. Separated from his wife, forensic analyst with Scotland Yard, reasonably well liked-ah and an unusual interest in dinosaurs.

Mycroft knew about unusual interests. He had a particular fondness for cake that Sherlock never failed to bring up. Could Sherlock be implying? No, Sherlock was much too direct in his insults for Mycroft to think that this recent name-calling had anything to do with unusual interests.

The fastest way to solve this problem would be to go directly to the source. Mycroft had Anthea arrange to borrow Anderson for a special tea at the dinosaur exhibit. A few calls later and everything was set.

“Magnificent creatures, aren’t they?” The other man was looking up at a dinosaur skeleton but jumped to turn when Mycroft spoke.

“Iguanodon artherfieldensis. This particular specimen is one of the most complete skeletons of an Iguanodon discovered in the British Isles. It was found on the Isle of Wight in 1917 and dates back 140-110 million years-but I’m sure you knew that already.” Anderson nodded and silently assessed his kidnapper.

“No need for nervousness. We’re here for tea.” Mycroft gestured at a table set with two teacups and a stand of beautifully decorated teacakes. It took a few minutes for Anderson to be comfortable enough to do more than stare into his cup but soon the two were conversing pleasantly.

“I never liked small talk.” Anderson confessed, “Never really saw the point, but this is nice. These cakes are delicious.” He said and reached for another. Mycroft preened.

“If you’ll pardon my asking, but is your… interest restricted only to dinosaurs or does it extend to other reptiles as well?” Anderson froze and looked at Mycroft suspiciously.

“I don’t know who told you that…” Anderson started angrily before Mycroft interrupted.

“I only ask because I have a particular… fondness… for cakes.” Anderson settled back down in his chair.

“Just dinosaurs. It’s difficult to have these sorts of…” Anderson said and paused searching for a word.

“Unusual interests.” Mycroft supplied.

“Unusual interests. Most people just don’t understand. Even if they say they’re not judging, they usually are.”

“Well I do understand. If you ever are in need or conversation or someone to join you in certain… activities…”

“Sure. Sally’s great but I wouldn’t dream of asking her to indulge me in my preferences.”

“I believe some indulgence is good.”

Anderson had to return to work so they finished their tea and parted ways with promises to meet again the following week. Sherlock was due for a checkup. Mycroft saw no sense in delaying so he went straight to Baker Street.

“How like an Anderson to show up when not wanted.” His brother cut out from where he reclined on his couch lazily playing his violin.

“I can't imagine why you continue to use “Anderson” as an insult. I just met with the man today and he was quite pleasant.” Sherlock snorted.

“Only an Anderson would like an Anderson’s company.”

“There’s no use arguing.” John sighed as he emerged from the kitchen. “Anderson’s his new favorite insult. He mentions the man so much I’m beginning to think he secretly likes him.” Mycroft took advantage of the silence afforded by Sherlock’s spluttering.

“Perhaps it is not best to dwell on my brother’s depraved imaginings.” Sherlock recovered quickly and started playing the violin loudly.

“I know you just arrived but maybe you better leave…” John said apologetically. Mycroft nodded and walked towards the door but couldn’t resist turning for some final words.

“You wouldn’t happen to know of a good place to purchase large quantities of feathers? Anderson and I are meeting up later-in costume if you will-and we do so like to be accurate.” It may have been petty to enjoy Sherlock’s shocked expression and the way he nearly dropped his violin, but Mycroft was due some enjoyment at his brother’s expense.

- - - - -

(Mycroft says they're going steady)