Watson glared for a moment, at a loss for words and feeling utterly, utterly defeated, outwitted by Holmes and Nell alike. Giving a resigned sigh and a shake of his head, he snatched back the stick. "Thank you," he said, sardonically. "I'm glad to have your support and guidance when it comes to outwitting the dog."

Nell had come circling back by this point, second stick held firmly in her jaws, but seeing her original prize once again in Watson's posession, she dropped her stick -- at a safe distance from easy snatching -- and rushed forward with a bark, bowing playfully and panting in an attempt to entice Watson to throw that one for her again, too. Laughing, Watson reached to take Holmes firmly by the lapels and pull him close for a hard, firm kiss. Left out and ignored, Nell barked impatiently and jumped up, trying to be included.