Watson sighed, with entirely false exasperation. "Very well, you may make suggestions that I may choose to implement, as is appropriate. But I make no promises to use any of them, if it doesn't suit me."

He paused as Nell came back to circle around them, clearly making sure they were following properly along, before continuing exploring with her nose to the ground.

Smiling, Watson's expression warm and soft and faintly teasing. "After all, it's my story, even if I'm writing it for you, and I must be allowed what small rebellions I can find."