After taking a moment to consider this, and the implications, Watson followed, come to lean against the mantle, looking at Holmes there on the sofa. That in itself brought up all sorts of memories; he could still, even now, remember that first time, there on the sofa, all the anxiety and hesitation and enthusiasm.

"If that means that you were there watching me while I was calling for you and did not deign to give me so much as a sign," Watson returned, "then yes. Yes, I do want to hear the longer version."

Deep down, he was hoping for some explanation that meant he would not have to hate Holmes.