Oh, Mrs. Hudson. Were it not for Holmes sleeping alongside him, he would have been tempted to bark out that now was not a good time -- tempted, but almost certainly would not have. He couldn't be that ungentlemanly, not really.

He detangled himself, gently, and went out into the sitting room. He was well aware he must look a mess, rumpled clothing and his hair all askew; he felt haggard, for what it was worth. Still, Watson straightened his collar before opening the door. He was glad, at least, that she hadn't let herself in today.

"Yes, Mrs. Hudson." Watson tried to smile for her, but he didn't feel it. "What can I do for you?"