Now, this was something closer to what Watson had wanted and expected when he came home. He wasn't about to push his luck, but he was glad to have this much. He returned the kiss gladly, cupping Holmes's face and stroking his fingers delicately over his cheek.

When he drew back, he rested his forehead against Holmes's, closing his eyes, enjoying this moment of being indecently grateful. Yes, he regretted the lost opportunity for a publicly acceptable marriage, for children, but this sort of love was hard to throw away for any reason. He could accept that trade. He had more of a home here in Baker street than he'd had in many years, more of a purpose in life than he'd ever expected to find after Maiwand, and a sort of intense, companionable love he knew he was very lucky to ever find in his lifetime. He would have been a fool to give it up.

"Should I come and join you down on the floor?" he asked, smiling a little.