"Oh, is that how it works," Watson laughed, rather tickled at being ordered about in regards to his writing. Having his work criticised lightly for perceived weaknesses and defecits was nothing new, but he liked this context more than the one he was familiar with. "Fine, fine. I shall do my best not to disappoint you."

At mention of the word 'walk,' Nell lifted her head, intrigued, and her tail gave a couple interested wags. Watson gave a chuckle.

"A walk sounds like an extremely good idea," he agreed, sitting up, "and I'm clearly not the only one who thinks so." Balancing his cigarette in his mouth, he started buttoning up his shirt again. Nell slid from the couch, wriggling all over with the excitement of a promised walk.