Watson smiled a little, involuntarily. "I am not missing out on happiness, as it happens."

He sat down in his chair, looking at Holmes, trying to weigh out his own feelings, trying to work out what he ought to be saying. "I didn't mean that I owe you, and that I stay with you out of some sort of misplaced gratitude. I meant... look, how can I possibly say this so I don't sound like a fool." He exhaled heavily. "I thought her pleasant. She will marry well. I never had any intention of being that man for her. I admit, I believe Mrs Forrester is attemping her hand at matchmaking, but that doesn't mean I must let her." Watson shook his head. "I... I don't think I would be happy, with that."