Watson's smile was very glad and very fond, and more than a little flattered. That Holmes, who he thought of being so handsome, would say the same of him was touching, and almost unbelievable.

"Nonsense," he scoffed. "Anyone I might have dallied with would have had a great deal to live up to, after you." He burrowed close, catching Holmes's hand and nibbling on his fingertips.