He closes his eyes and lets his hair be stroked, relieved to find such tenderness, especially after how this week has gone, at least inside his own mind. He turns his head and lightly kisses Watson's thigh through his trousers, grateful that he can do that too; oh, he's grateful for everything about Watson, when it comes down to it.

"I do love you too, my dear Watson," he says softly, shifting closer so his chest presses against Watson's leg. "I hope you can understand the... irregular manifestations my love for you takes."