"He would indeed, my -- " he clears his throat, still unsure if he's allowed this, but he doesn't want to avoid saying it again, "my dear Watson. That's why he will only see a bookseller leave. I can avoid detection by leaving out the back." He pauses and smiles to himself, even though it feels odd; his excitement is building about his plan, which really is a ridiculously dramatic but thoroughly enjoyable plan, even while he's full of a low hum of uncertainty about Watson.

He can't begin to contemplate what his life would be like if Watson decides that he can't be with him anymore. So he decides not to, as much as is possible.

"Nearly finished," he says, his tone soft, and he wipes his hands before picking up a brush to apply a few wrinkles.