Watching You Fall Omegle 66

-------------------------------Chapter 17------------------------------------------

Stranger: Mycroft sat at his desk, his phone buzzing with a new text he knew was going to be from Greg. The other man had the day off and seemed to take a liking to bugging Mycroft at work. It was annoying, but it made Mycroft smile. He glanced up from the latest message to see Athena walking into the office, the heavy door shutting behind her, her eyes glued to her phone.

You: "Sir, I have a report from the agent you had following John Watson," Anthea said distractedly, typing quickly. "Apparently, Mr. Watson boarded a boat from Paris with your brother heading back here. The boat was sabotaged mid-trip and is floating in the water. Would you like to do anything about it?"

Stranger: "Has there been anything done about it yet? Any rescue boats?" Mycroft asked, sighing and placing his phone on the desk face down. He'd have to get back to Greg later.

You: "Not as of yet," Anthea reported, looking up briefly from her phone. "The agent is on the boat as well and said Sherlock and John caught the saboteurs. Both were injured but are fine. Apparently, the captain was the one who damaged the engines."

Stranger: Mycroft sighed again and thought for a moment. "Get a replacement boat ready for them at the dock. Also, get a few boats out there to collect the passengers. They obviously already know who the other is, there's no point in ruining their little vacation now." Mycroft stood and paced to the door, passing his assistant. "Wish for a coffee?"

You: "Yes, thank you," Anthea replied, a bit of surprise in her voice. "Would you like me to get you anything sir?" She typed a quick message on her phone, getting everything in motion to rescue the passengers.

Stranger: "No, I've got it," Mycroft said, slipping his coat on and sending her a small smile. "There's a nice little cafe just around the corner that I enjoy. I need to get out of this box for a few moments. Though, if you wish, you're more than welcome to join me."

You: Anthea looked up from her phone, slipping it into her pocket at this odd request from her boss. "All right," she agreed, nodding her head. "Sir, is something wrong?"

Stranger: "No, nothing's wrong," Mycroft said, shrugging and waiting for her to follow him. "Just like I said, need to get out of this box. A little fresh air never hurt." He started down the hall, letting the dull pain that had settled in the middle of his forehead slowly slip away.

You: Anthea followed silently, studying Mycroft as they walked. He had changed in remarkable ways in the past couple years, enough that Anthea almost didn't recognize him. "Sir, if you don't like working in your office as much anymore, why not take some of it home?" she suggested suddenly.

Stranger: “I don’t know,” Mycroft admitted, titling his head to look at her in thought. “I guess I just figure if I take it home, I’ll never get it done. When I’m in my office, I’m forced to just do it.”

You: “I can understand that,” Anthea nodded, her eyes thoughtful. “Home, for me, is a sanctuary. I wouldn’t want work to intrude upon it. Nor would I want it to infringe on my personal life.”

Stranger: “Exactly,” Mycroft nodded, pushing the elevator button and stepping back, shoving his hands in his pockets. He decided to leave his usual umbrella in his office, figuring he wouldn’t need it for the short walk. “Besides, I think I would be too easily distracted. Greg, and all.”

You: Anthea laughed softly, the sound warm and happy. “Why didn’t you ask him to meet you since he’s not working today?” Anthea asked curiously, her head tilting again. “I would have thought you’d want to spend time with him.”

Stranger: “I should have,” Mycroft nodded, smiling slightly. “Maybe I’ll ask him to meet me for lunch later on. This is just a quick coffee run, after all. I plan to go right back to the office.” Mycroft turned the corner from the elevators and started towards the exit of the building, holding the door open for Anthea as they reached it. “Because let’s face it, the coffee here is less than good.”

You: “This isn’t where I normally get coffee,” Anthea admitted, lifting her face to the sunshine once they were outside. It was warm today, a clear sky above them.

Stranger: “I think you’ll like it,” Mycroft said, watching her in amusement. “It’s nice - small. They make great coffee, good and fresh, you know?”

You: “I’ve found that the smaller places are best,” Anthea agreed, smiling. “How did you find this coffee house, if you don’t mind my asking.”

Stranger: “Just walking one day. I remember I had the worst headache and decided a break and a stroll would do me some good,” Mycroft said, grimacing as he thought back to how much paperwork he had that day. Easily his whole desk was just covered in the blasted paper from hell. “I kind of just turned the corner up here and the smell hit me. I got to talking to the manager about something I can’t recall and now I go whenever I just need to get out.”

You: They reached the door before Anthea could reply and Mycroft opened it again for her. As she walked in, she inhaled appreciatively; it smelled divine inside. “I may have to come here a little more often if the coffee is as good as it smells.”

Stranger: “It’s better,” Mycroft smiled at her, leading them up to the front counter. “Get what you wish, it’ll be on me today.”

You: “Thank you,” Anthea repeated, smiling and nodding in thanks. She ordered a coffee, adding a splash of hazelnut and vanilla. Then, Anthea stepped back to let Mycroft order his own cup.

Stranger: Mycroft ordered a simple black coffee, just feeling the need for something strong today, and ordered them both a biscuit to go with their coffees. He stepped up to the other counter after paying for the items and waited for their drinks.

You: “Now I see where you go when I can’t find you,” Anthea said dryly. “It was the only time when I didn’t know anything about where you were.”

Stranger: “Yes, but this doesn’t give you any sort of rights to come find me unless you’re coming just to join me and not bother me about work,” Mycroft said, shooting her a look out of the corner of his eye. “You know, unless war’s about to break out again.”

You: Anthea laughed and nodded, accepting the cup when her name was called out. She walked to the little trolley and added sugar, stirring idly while looking at the pictures on the walls. It would seem this coffee shop had an illustrious clientele.

Stranger: Mycroft took his coffee when it was set out and took the biscuits they had placed next to it in a small brown paper bag. He joined Athena by the trolley and looked at the picture she was looking at. “It’s nice, isn’t it?” he said, glancing around at the others that hung by it. “Feels homey.”

You: “Like it’s so far removed from everything that nothing is wrong anymore,” Anthea replied a bit whimsically. She took a sip of her coffee and closed her eyes in appreciation. “You were right, sir. Much better than it smells.”

Stranger: “Told you,” he joked, taking another sip of his coffee. “Are you ready to head back? I’ve got us biscuits, if you would fancy one.”

You: “Yes, I would,” Anthea replied and took the biscuit Mycroft handed her. She bit into it as they walked out, moving slowly back towards the office. “Why has that place not been bought out yet?” she asked curiously. “With its clientele and how delicious everything is, I would think it would be exclusive for government employees.”

Stranger: Mycroft chuckled lightly, taking a bite of his own biscuit. “I’ll be sure to talk to the manger next time I’m there,” he smiled, loving the taste the biscuit and the coffee made together in his mouth.

You: “Oh no, I don’t think that would be a good idea,” Anthea disagreed, shaking her head. “I was just surprised that it hadn’t happened yet. If anything changed, the coffee and biscuits might not be as good.”

Stranger: “You’ve got a point,” Mycroft nodded, sipping his coffee slowly and enjoying the bitter taste. “It’s too good to change.”

You: Anthea continued walking in silence, finishing her biscuit and alternating with sips of her coffee. Her phone beeped at her and Anthea juggled the cup and phone so that she could answer it. “Boats are on their way,” she reported, typing. “Would you like your agent to stay with John or leave with the other passengers?”

Stranger: Mycroft sighed and sipped from his coffee, thinking. “Let him leave,” Mycroft said after a few minutes, knowing he was going to regret this later. “Let them have some time to themselves. It has been three years, after all. I’ll regret it later, but Sherlock can’t say I’ve never done anything nice for him.”

You: Anthea nodded and continued to type, her coffee forgotten for the moment. She walked next to Mycroft until they got back to the office when she headed down another hallway to her own office.

Stranger: Mycroft made his way up to his office and picked up his phone from where he had left it, face down on the desk. He smiled when he saw he had two new messages, both from Greg.

You: Love, you all right? You don’t usually go this long without answering. - GL

Stranger: I’m fine. Just went out for coffee with Anthea. Would you like to meet for lunch on my break? -MH

You: Would love to. I was going to ask you the same question. Where would you like to go? - GL

Stranger: I don’t know. What are you up for? -MH

You: There’s a new place down near the Eye. Chinese I believe. Want to try there? - GL

Stranger: Sure. That sounds nice. Around three? I’ll pick you up if you want. -MH

You: How about we meet there? That way you can go back to work if you need to. - GL

Stranger: Alright, sounds like a plan. How’s your day off been? -MH

You: Quiet. No dealing with Anderson and just lounging around all day. I haven’t even gotten dressed yet. - GL

Stranger: Did you even wear anything to bed last night? -MH

You: Nope. Why do you ask, love? Couldn’t you tell? - GL

Stranger: Yes, but I’m just picturing you lounging around naked all day. Is that so bad? -MH

You: I don’t think so. It’s what I was hoping for when I mentioned it. - GL

Stranger: Emm. I sort of wish I was there now. -MH

You: So do I. See you at lunch, Mycroft? - GL

Stranger: See you at lunch, Greg. -MH

You: Lestrade set his phone on the nightstand next to the bed and stretched, grinning as he imagined Mycroft’s face while reading those texts. But now it was time for a shower and getting dressed. Lestrade got up and started getting ready, still grinning at the plans he was making for later.

Stranger: Mycroft set his phone down on his desk and chuckled at the thought of Greg laying naked and alone in bed all morning. He turned back to the pile of paperwork on his desk and the smile faded from his face. With a glance at the clock, noticing he had about two and a half hours before his lunch break, he turned to his paperwork and pulled it towards him. Maybe if he got it all done, he could go home with Greg.

You: Lestrade was done with his shower and dressed quickly, still having about two hours before lunch. He sat down to watch telly for a while, though he couldn’t keep his attention focused on it. His mind kept wandering to having Mycroft in bed that night. Possibly with his handcuffs.

Stranger: After forcing himself to focus on the paperwork until it was all done, he allowed himself a glance up at the clock. He still had half an hour before his break, but everything was done. If he made the arrangements he needed to, he could go home with Greg and have his lover for the rest of the night. Standing, he started typing out on his phone to Anthea, setting everything up.

You: Anthea knocked on Mycroft’s door, her news easier and quicker to speak rather than text. “The boats have arrived and John and Sherlock have their own. The other passengers are on their way to their destination,” she explained. “Is there anything else you would like done?”

Stranger: “No, I think that’s it,” Mycroft said, slipping his coat on and pocketing his cell phone. “I’m going out to lunch with Gregory and, since I’ve got everything done, I figured I’d just head home for the day. Unless there’s something more I need to do I’ve forgotten about?”

You: “No, there is nothing else,” Anthea replied, checking her phone. “You have several important meetings tomorrow, though.”

Stranger: Mycroft grunted and rolled his eyes to himself. “Noted. What time is the first one, again?”

You: “Eight AM,” Anthea told him, putting away her phone. “Have a good day, sir.” She nodded and closed the door, heading back to her own office.

Stranger: Mycroft nodded back at her and headed to the door. He left it open behind him, knowing Anthea would shut it behind her. He made his way down to his car and got into the driver's seat, not bothering with a driver today. He pulled out onto the road and started towards the Eye.

You: With about half an hour until he needed to meet Mycroft, Lestrade headed out. He drove slowly, enjoying the day. It was nice not having to drive to a body to investigate. He parked in a parking garage near the London Eye and walked the rest of the way to the restaurant.

Stranger: Mycroft found the place Greg was talking about and parked a few blocks away. He walked to the Eye, just looking at it for a while, knowing he had at least ten minutes before he had to meet his lover. Strangely enough, even though he'd grown up in London and had been there all his life, he had never ridden on the Eye.

You: Lestrade looked around the square and studied the Eye. He'd been on the ride once with his ex-wife on a date but never again. He'd always felt himself to be above going on tourist traps like it. But now, it might be interesting to try something new. Then, Lestrade saw Mycroft and he decided to make that day today. "Mycroft!" he called out, waving at the other man.

Stranger: Mycroft turned and smiled as he saw Greg walking towards him. He hugged the other man and pressed a soft kiss to his lips. "Hello there," he smiled, taking his lover's hand. "I see you're early too."

You: "Hello, Mycroft," Lestrade replied, twining their fingers together and squeezing Mycroft's hand. "I got bored without you. I saw you looking at the Eye. Want to go for a ride?"

Stranger: "I-" Mycroft cut off and looked up at the towering wheel. He bothered his lower lip. He did want to go, but it was so high. Even after his incident with Sherlock back over a year ago, he still had a deadly fear of heights. "I- I- I do... But I'm..."

You: "What's the matter?" Lestrade asked, pulling Mycroft towards him and hugging him. "You seem nervous all of a sudden." He followed Mycroft's gaze, noting idly that the Eye was extremely tall.

Stranger: "Don't you know..?" he muttered, dropping his head to his lover's shoulder. "I thought Sherlock would jump at the opportunity to embarrass me on any stupid thing he could find about me."

You: "He hasn't told me anything, no," Lestrade replied, confusion etching his face. "Come on, love, you can tell me. What has you hesitating? Are you afraid?"

Stranger: Mycroft sighed into Greg's neck and tightened his grip around his waist. "I'm scared of heights," he muttered into Greg's skin. "I almost fell off a bridge once and it scared me. I hated heights after that. I really want to go on the ride but..." he hesitated, bothering his lip. "I'm afraid."

You: Lestrade pressed a kiss to the top of Mycroft's head, holding him tight against his side. "I'll be there with you," he murmured, understanding fears. He had a few of his own. "I won't let you fall. Will you come with me?"

Stranger: Mycroft looked back up at the ride and gripped Greg's hand tighter. He took a deep breath before turning back to his lover and slowly nodding. "As long as you're next to me the whole time," he murmured, hating how much he sounded like a little child.

You: Lestrade smiled fondly at Mycroft and nodded. He started walking them towards the ticket booth, keeping in the laugh at the apprehensive look on Mycroft's face. "I won't be going anywhere," Lestrade promised. "And I won't let go of your hand if that makes you feel better."

Stranger: "It does," Mycroft admitted, avoiding Lestrade's eyes. He looked up at the ride as Greg paid. He couldn't get over how tall it really was. His stomach did a few flips when Greg pulled him towards the entrance and they stepped into one of the big bubbles. He attached himself to Greg's side almost as soon as the door closed. It was a small crowd, so luckily they got a bubble all to themselves. He wrapped his free arm around Greg's and squeezed his hand, trying to smile at the other man.

You: Lestrade rubbed a hand over Mycroft's bag as the ride started, the bump making both of them stumble a little bit. "You ok?" Lestrade asked once he'd caught his balance again. He studied Mycroft's face, seeing even more fear now that they were moving and rising up.

Stranger: Mycroft nodded wordlessly, his eyes darting around before he just closed them and focused on his breathing. He gripped tighter to Greg, pulling himself closer to the man's side. "I want to enjoy this," he murmured, his eyes still closed. "I heard it's supposed to be beautiful. Plus I'm with you."

You: "Have you ever ridden the Eye before?" Lestrade asked curiously, rubbing a hand soothingly up and down Mycroft's side. They were about halfway up the side now, the Thames stretched out before them and glittering in the sun.

Stranger: "Never," he muttered, slowly opening his eyes and glancing out the big window. He heard a small whimper leave his mouth and Greg tightened his hold on him. "My parents didn't believe in tourist traps when we were kids. By the time I was old enough to ride alone, I was scared of heights. So I never bothered."

You: "What made you so afraid of heights, love?" Lestrade asked, standing steady so that Mycroft had something to hold onto. He had forgotten how much of London you could see from the Eye, especially as they neared the top.

Stranger: Mycroft tensed when the ride stopped at the top, his back going ridged. "I almost fell," he muttered, his eyes scanning the city as he tried to relax. "I was able to catch the edge of the bridge before I completely fell into the shallow water. If I hadn't done so, I probably wouldn't have made it. After that, I have been terrified of heights. I don't want to fall again." He wondered how long they would be stopped up top, knowing that sometimes the rides did break down, though it was rare. He tried to enjoy it - the view really was beautiful over the city. It was just so high...

You: "I'm glad you did," Lestrade replied. He wondered if the ride would stop at the top as it sometimes did to let new passengers on in other carriages. It wasn't doing a very brisk business today so there may actually be no one else waiting to get on. His thoughts ground to a halt when the carriage did and Lestrade felt Mycroft tense even more next to him. "It's ok, love," he murmured, turning Mycroft's face to meet his eyes. "Try and relax. I've got you."

Stranger: Mycroft nodded and leaned up to kiss Greg quickly on the lips. "I'm sorry. I really do think it's beautiful up here, it's just... I don't know. I know I won't fall from here, but I'm still scared. I feel like I can fall if I move any more. Don't let me fall..." He bothered his lip with his teeth, his eyes scanning the buildings.

You: The Eye started again with a bump, moving into its downward arc. They were standing in the middle of the compartment, away from the bubble window that looked out over the Thames. "I won't," Lestrade promised. "Do you trust me, love? Can we try something?"

Stranger: "I trust you," Mycroft muttered, looking up at Greg. "What is it that you want to try?"

You: "I want us to step a little closer to the window," Lestrade explained, taking a step towards the front of the bubble and drawing Mycroft along with him. "We won't go any closer than you can handle but it might help your fear if you confronted it in a safe way."

Stranger: "Just... Just don't let go," Mycroft muttered, drawing closer to the window with Greg. Mycroft squeezed his hand as they got closer, his heart racing. He moved closer to Greg, gripping his arm.

You: Lestrade stepped behind Mycroft as they stopped a few steps from the window. He wrapped his free arm around Mycroft's waist and rested his chin on the other man's shoulder. "It's not so bad, is it?" he whispered, breath ghosting over Mycroft's skin. "Especially as we're going back down towards the ground."

Stranger: "I-I guess," Mycroft muttered, leaning back into Lestrade's hold, trying to get as close to the man as he could. “Just don’t let go.” He knew he was repeating himself, but with his heart beating as fast as it was, he found he really couldn’t bother to care.

You: “I’m not, Mycroft,” Lestrade said soothingly. He looked out the little window in the door and saw that there were no other patrons waiting for a ride. The operator raised a hand in a circle and Lestrade nodded, telling him he wanted to go around again. “You all right, love?”

Stranger: “F-fine,” Mycroft said, watching as the ground came closer. He missed the wordless conversation between Lestrade and the man on the ground until their bubble didn’t stop. “Are we... going around again?” He muttered, his tone unsure.

You: “One more time,” Lestrade replied, squeezing his arm gently around Mycroft’s waist. “Then we can go to lunch if you like.”  He could feel a slight shivering in Mycroft, feeling a little guilty for going around again.

Stranger: Mycroft nodded, his stomach doing flips as the ground and the people below got smaller and smaller. He started to shake as the nerves took him over again and he closed his eyes, bothering his lower lip. It was worse, being so close to the side of the bubble.

You: “Hey, love, you’re all right,” Lestrade said, a thread of worry in his voice. “Here, turn around. Look at me.” He eased back a little bit, letting Mycroft move against him. Lestrade saw that Mycroft’s eyes were closed and pressed his forehead to the other man’s. “Open your eyes love.”

Stranger: Mycroft shook his head, not wanting to see how high up they really were. It wasn’t as bad the first time since they couldn’t watch the people below getting smaller, but since they were on the edge this time, Mycroft was able to tell just how high they really were. He felt his body freeze to the spot, his legs unwilling to carry him away from the edge.

You: “Love, you won’t see anything but me,” Lestrade soothed Mycroft, moving his hand from around Mycroft’s waist to cup his cheek. “It’s ok, just open your eyes and look at me. I’ve got you, you’re safe.”

Stranger: Mycroft hesitated for a moment before opening his eyes slowly. His gaze connected with Lestrade’s for a moment before slipping to the side. He saw the ground retreating farther and quickly closed them again, his shivering growing. He was unable to help any of it. They were higher up now than he and Sherlock were before and he had almost fell then. With that thought fresh in his mind, his shivering became worse and he took his arms from around Greg, wrapping them tightly around himself. Mycroft tried to push the thoughts away as well as the memory of where he was right then.

You: “Mycroft, you’re all right,” Lestrade said worriedly, rubbing his hands up and down Mycroft’s arms. He stepped closer again, hoping that feeling him near might calm Mycroft a bit. “We aren’t going to fall. Just breathe and look at me. Look only at me, don’t worry about anything else.”

Stranger: Mycroft shook his head, folding in on himself as the panic slowly set in. “Don’t want to fall,” he muttered, shakily. He hated how much he was panicking over what could be nothing, but he couldn’t stop himself. “Don’t want to fall...”

You: Their compartment crested the top of the circle and started back down. Lestrade pulled Mycroft into a hug, pressing the other man’s head into his shoulder. “Shh, you’re not falling,” Lestrade murmured into Mycroft’s ear. “I’ve got you. Just breathe, love.”

Stranger: Mycroft tried to focus on his breathing, not noticing his dampened cheek even as Greg pushed his head to his shoulder. He heard Greg’s words but couldn’t focus completely on them. His mind was more focused on the fact that they were going down. Slowly, but they were falling, and Mycroft panicked more.

You: The compartment came to a stop at the bottom, Lestrade sending a glance to the operator to ask for a couple minutes. The operator saw the pure panic on Mycroft’s face and nodded; there were still no other people wanting to ride. “We’re back down, Mycroft,” Lestrade reassured him, turning back to press a kiss to Mycroft’s temple. “You haven’t fallen and you can look again.”

Stranger: “No,” Mycroft muttered, his voice cracking. He was crying by this point, but not heavily. Just a few tears rolled down his cheeks in the sheer amount of panic he had just went through. He kept his eyes closed, not wanting to open them and see the ground so far down.

You: “Mycroft, I promise you, we are back on the ground,” Lestrade replied, turning Mycroft’s face up to his. “You trust me right? Open your eyes and look at me.”

Stranger: Mycroft ground his teeth together and forced one eye open. He closed it almost at once before forcing it open again to stare at Greg. He slowly forced the other open to locked eyes with Greg, not wanting to look around in case they were still up in the air.

You: “There you go,” Lestrade said, more reassured now that Mycroft wasn’t panicking as much. “Take a few deep breaths and when you feel ready, look over my shoulder. We can leave whenever you want.”

Stranger: Mycroft blinked hard before allowing his gaze to move over Greg’s shoulder, seeing they were, in fact, back on the ground. A small, nervous chuckle left his lips before he wrapped his arms back around Greg’s waist and pulled him close, dropping his forehead to Greg’s shoulder. “God...” he muttered, the chuckle still light. “God...”

You: Lestrade hugged Mycroft again, letting laughter bubble out of him. It was mostly relief that he had gotten Mycroft to calm down. “See? We lived through it and you didn’t fall anywhere. Though I probably shouldn’t have had us go around a second time. I’m sorry about that, love,” Lestrade said apologetically.

Stranger: “It-it’s fine,” Mycroft said, pulling back, suddenly wanting to get off the ride as soon as possible. He whipped his eyes on the back of his hand and laced his fingers with Greg, pulling him towards the exit. “I’m sorry, too. I panicked up there. I really am sorry.”

You: “Don’t worry about it,” Lestrade replied, nodding in thanks to the operator as they walked past. ”I can understand being afraid of something. It was very brave of you to even go on the ride, love.”

Stranger: "Still, I'm sorry about how bad I panicked. I know it must have scared you a little," Mycroft said, stopping a bit away from the ride and turning to Greg. "Thank you for... Helping me."

You: "You're welcome," Lestrade replied simply, holding out his hand again. "I was hoping to help reduce your fear a little bit but I guess it backfired. Are you feeling up to a meal right now or would you rather go home?"

Stranger: "Lunch sounds good," Mycroft muttered, taking Greg's hand. "I just want to relax."

You: "It's just over here," Lestrade said, leading the way. He twined their fingers together, squeezing gently on Mycroft's hand. "I've heard a lot of good things from some in my division. They love the food here."

Stranger: "I'm sure it'll be amazing," Mycroft said, letting himself relax more. "I'll pay today."

You: Lestrade shook his head, smiling fondly. "No, I will," he replied decisively. "Think of it as an apology, love." He lifted Mycroft's hand to his lips and brushed a kiss over the back.

Stranger: "Are you sure?" Mycroft muttered, holding the door open for Greg. "I'd be more than happy to pay. I have the money."

You: Lestrade waited to reply until the host had seated them, little glasses of water and menus left in his wake. "And so do I," Lestrade replied, picking up his menu and looking through it. "It's not about the money. It's something I want to do. I feel bad about taking you on the Eye now."

Stranger: "Don't, Greg," Mycroft said, shaking his head. "I wanted to enjoy it. I've always wanted to see the town from the top but I just... Can't. Don't feel bad just because of my stupid fear. It's not your fault I have a fear of something so... Idiotic."

You: "I don't think it's idiotic," Lestrade replied, smiling. "You should hear about some of my phobias. You have a genuine reason to be afraid of heights, considering you almost died falling off a bridge." He looked down at his menu, deciding to try something new today.

Stranger: Mycroft opened his mouth to ask but was interrupted by the waiter. He ordered a dish from one of the pictures - the name not in the caption, which he thought was a bad promotional tactic - and a glass of lemonade. He waited for Lestrade to order before finally asking. "Would you tell me some of yours?"

You: "I'm terrified of rats," Lestrade admitted quietly after fidgeting with his glass for a minute. "I also can't stand the sound of wood cracking; it reminds me of bones. Kind of weird but nothing I have to deal with on a daily basis, thankfully."

Stranger: "I'll remember that," Mycroft nodded, reaching across and laying his hand across Greg's. "I'm glad you trust me enough to tell me these things, love."

You: "You'll find them out eventually," Lestrade grumbled, rolling his eyes. "I'm sure at some point I'll see a rat or hear a piece of wood crack in the fireplace. I hate having the phobias but they're something I've had for as long as I can remember." He took a sip of his water, looking up when another waiter placed a pot of tea and two cups on the table.

Stranger: Mycroft nodded his thanks as the waiter turned away. "I have to ask, love," he said, pouring each of them a thing of tea as the same waiter that took their order placed a tall lemonade down at his elbow. He nodded again before turning back to Lestrade. "Are you afraid of the actual bones cracking? Or do you just not like the sound that they and the wood make?"

You: Lestrade thought about that for several seconds, pouring a cup of tea for himself. He poured for Mycroft as well, even though the other man had lemonade. "I suppose a bit of both," he finally said thoughtfully. "I've seen a lot of injuries, a lot of fights. The sound of breaking bone is never a good one."

Stranger: "I understand that," Mycroft nodded. "So is it a fear or just a dislike? It sounds to me like you just don't really like it."

You: "Again both," Lestrade admitted. He grimaced as he thought of a childhood injury, the one time he'd broken bones. "When I was ten or so, I fell out of a tree house. I landed wrong and broke both bones in my left forearm. The sound of them snapping is something I'll never forget and I'm scared to think I could do it again."

Stranger: Mycroft frowned at the DI. "I'm sorry, love," he muttered. "I'll protect you the best I can, though. No one will be hurting you if I have anything to say about it."

You: "Thank you," Lestrade smiled, taking Mycroft's hand and squeezing it. It was something he'd learned he had in common with John, the need to touch. It was something he'd sorely missed towards the end of his marriage. "I've learned how to fight and defend myself. And gotten myself into a position where I don't really need to with work. That was one of the bigger draws for me being made detective inspector."

Stranger: "Either way, I'm glad you know how to defend yourself if something ever happens where you need to," Mycroft said, giving Lestrade's hand a squeeze back, giving him a small smile. "I just hope you don't need to. Especially if it's something I'm calling you in for. So for both of our sanity, please, love, just fire Anderson and hire a better team." Mycroft couldn't help the small laugh that bubbled out of him.

You: "I've thought about it, believe me," Lestrade laughed ruefully, drinking his tea now that it had cooled down a little bit. "The only problem is that if he goes so does Sally Donovan I think. I don't want to lose her, she's good. And, honestly, I think Sherlock enjoys coming up with new insults for Anderson. It's seem to have become a game they play since it's hard to believe that someone could be that amazingly incompetent."

Stranger: "Then can you at least hire another man that you can bring with you on the harder cases?" Mycroft asked, shaking his head. "I don't see why Ms. Donovan would leave with Anderson, but at least if you hire another man as well, you can have a... better back-up for the ones Anderson could mess up too easily."

You: "It's something to consider," Lestrade replied, smiling a little at Mycroft's insistence. "I've solved cases with him so far; the team works. I think I'll give it some more time, let Sherlock come back and see how it all goes."

Stranger: "Fine," Mycroft shrugged. "But he's not the smartest man in the world, remember that." He smiled as Lestrade, knowing they were just joking about with a serious subject. He did want him to get a new man other than Anderson, but Mycroft also knew Greg wouldn't do that. He always tried to find the best in people. It's that part of this man that saved his brother from the gutter, so he couldn't help but love him for it.

You: "So, how goes fixing Sherlock's reputation?" Lestrade asked lightly, changing the subject. He really did want Sherlock to come back and help with cases and that couldn't be accomplished without this key step. "It's been, what, about a month and a half?"

Stranger: "About, yes," Mycroft nodded, taking a sip from his lemonade. "It's going alright. I'm currently working on getting the story out there to fix him up a little more. It takes time. Lots of time. And the government isn't really known for it's lightening speed to begin with."

You: "Yes, I've come across the glaciality of the bureaucracy myself," Lestrade laughed, rolling his eyes in amusement and annoyance. "Try getting a warrant when, according to the judge, you don't have enough evidence. And John, did you find out where he really was?"

Stranger: "He's currently on a ship back to London," Mycroft muttered, wondering how Greg would react to him telling him that John was with Sherlock now.

You: "I suppose that's a good thing," Lestrade said slowly, eyeing Mycroft. His fiance had a slightly shifty look in his eyes. "Does that mean he didn't actually find Sherlock?"

Stranger: "Actually... Love, he found Sherlock," Mycroft said slowly, his fingers sliding along the damp outer side of his glass. "Their boat broke down as well, it was attacked. From what Anthea told me, both of them were hurt but not so badly that they couldn't handle it for a while."

You: Lestrade was silent as he thought that through. He was a bit surprised he felt nothing but happiness for John, though it made sense. They'd both finally found their Holmes, hadn't they? "Does he know it's him or does he still think Sherlock is Dean?" Lestrade asked.

Stranger: "He knows who he is," Mycroft nodded, unable to help the small smile that caresses his lips. "I can't help but be happy for him, you know?"

You: "It's about time," Lestrade agreed, mirroring Mycroft's smile. "He was crushed when he thought Sherlock was dead. Some people just belong together."

Stranger: "I agree," Mycroft nodded, giving Lestrade's hand another squeeze. "I'm glad my brother could find the man for him. John's a good thing for him."

You: "John makes him the good man I saw he could be," Lestrade said thoughtfully, a memory of the first case John and Sherlock had worked together running through his mind. "I told John that Sherlock was a great man and, if we were lucky, he could become a good one. I think we're lucky."

Stranger: "Maybe we're all just lucky," Mycroft mused, smiling at Lestrade. "My brother found the man that makes him better, and I found mine."

You: "I make you better?" Lestrade asked quizzically, tilting his head to the side as their waiter brought their food. Vegetable tempura with fried rice was set in front of him while Mycroft's plate was set in front of him. "How exactly do I do that?"

Stranger: Mycroft shrugged, suddenly feeling stupid for bringing it up. "You changed me, I guess," he muttered. He wasn't sure how or why, but he felt like he was a new person with Greg. Like he was a little more open to the world - a little less cold. "You changed everything."

You: Lestrade studied Mycroft, seeing the change in his demeanor. The other man went from open and smiling to closed in. "I hope that you don't mind," he finally said. "You've made me better, too. I'm glad of it."

Stranger: "How did I make you better?" Mycroft asked, forking a piece of the chicken on his plate and lifting it to his mouth. "I'm glad you changed me; people are more open to me now. But how could I have possibly changed you?"

You: Lestrade gave himself time to think by taking a bite of his food. He chewed carefully, wondering how exactly he wanted to answer the question. "I don't know how to word it but you opened me up again," Lestrade finally said. "I'd kept everyone at arm's length, afraid to let people close after my divorce. I tried to focus on work and be satisfied with that but it didn't work. You filled an empty part of me."

Stranger: Mycroft set his fork down and stared at his lover from across the table for a long moment. "I did?" he finally asked, unsure of how Greg came to that conclusion. "You never once pushed me away, though. Was I missing something?"

You: Lestrade laughed warmly, reaching over and squeezing Mycroft's hand. "I tried to push you away at first, you remember? I didn't want to leave with you for that first date. But after I made the choice to go, I never looked back. Well, except for the... misunderstandings we had." Lestrade looked sheepish at that; they were more-than-partly his fault.

Stranger: "Yes, but your friend had just overdosed for the first time and was laying on a hospital bed. You thought your other friend had just killed himself as well. I would have been shocked if I was able to pull you out of there easily," Mycroft said, lacing their fingers together to hold while they ate. "That, and a little disappointed in you." He laughed lightly before continuing. "And the misunderstanding- love, it meant nothing. We're back together and we're engaged. We never would have gotten here if it wasn't for the bumps in the road that only strengthen our relationship. It showed us that we could work through anything. If anything, the misunderstanding helped us."

You: "Yes, I have to admit it did," Lestrade smiled then pretended to glare at Mycroft. "So that first time you asked me to go to lunch, it was a test? What would you have done if I had said yes the first time?"

Stranger: "Took you to lunch all the same," Mycroft shrugged. "I honestly did want you to go with me. But if had gone without a fight- well, what sort of friend would you have been to John?"

You: "You have a point," Lestrade admitted, reluctantly remembering those hours sitting and praying. "I still feel a bit guilty that I did leave, you know? But I think you were right to convince me. It wouldn't have done John any good had I collapsed from exhaustion." He took another bite of tempura, glad that he had suggested this place. His co-workers were right, it was delicious.

Stranger: "I would have gotten lunch into you one way or another," Mycroft chuckled, squeezing his lover's hand as he forked another bite, this time of the rice and vegetables that came with the chicken. "No offense, love, but you looked God awful when I saw you. Upset, worried sick, tired; the last thing I wanted to see was you passed out next to John. I had to do something."

You: "Thank you for taking the first step," Lestrade said, inclining his head towards Mycroft and chuckling with him. "I doubt I ever would have."

Stranger: "Oh?" Mycroft asked, smiling. "You're welcome, but why would you say you wouldn't? Even if we waited longer-?”

You: "Closed in, remember?" Lestrade reminded, smiling. "I wouldn't have been looking to start anything resembling a relationship at the time. Perhaps after a long while but I was focusing on work only."

Stranger: "I must ask, love," Mycroft said quietly, his smile still on his lips. "Do you have any regrets? Anything you wish we'd done? Anything you would have changed? No reason, just wondering."

You: "No, I don't think I would change anything," Lestrade said after thinking for a few moments. "I think what happened had to happen for us to be here now. Do I wish some things had gone differently? Yes, but it doesn't matter now." He laughed then, dispelling a bit of the tension that had sprung up around them. "You notice we always have these serious conversations over meals? What is it about food that loosens tongues?"

Stranger: "I did not mean it as too serious," Mycroft said, laughing along with him. "I was just curious. I just want to know. What do you wish had gone differently? Nothing will change between us, I just am curious as to how one thing might have changed everything."

You: "I wish Sherlock had kept his knowledge to himself," Lestrade said honestly, surprising himself slightly. "Usually I like to know everything but there are things that knowing causes more damage than help. And it was something you'd obviously put far behind yourself."

Stranger: "True," Mycroft said, thinking hard on that for a moment with a frown. He looked back to Greg after a moment and smiled. "But it had a good outcome, at least, after a while. Anything else?"

You: "No, not really," Lestrade shook his head and smiled. "What about you, love? Is there anything you would like to change about what happened?"

Stranger: "I wish I had found you sooner," Mycroft said with a chuckle. "Otherwise, I wish I didn't have to lie to you the first part of our relationship. I hated having to keep as big of a secret such as Sherlock being alive from you. I knew it was hurting you."

You: Looking down, Lestrade relived the first moments when he'd found out Sherlock was alive. Confusion, shock, joy, anger had all swirled within him. "I understand why you did," he finally said, meeting Mycroft's eyes again. "And I do wish I had found you sooner."

Stranger: "Otherwise, I have nothing to change. Everything has been so perfect with you," Mycroft admitted, turning back to his food, which had cooled.

You: Lestrade smiled wider and went back to his own meal. The time passed in companionable silence, the two trading looks and fond smiles every once in a while. Finally, once they were finished, the waiter delivered the check with two fortune cookies.

Stranger: "Haven't had these in a while," Mycroft muttered, taking the one Greg passed to him. They unlaced their fingers and Mycroft watched as Greg cracked his open, pulling out the little slip of white paper. "What does yours say?"

You: "You will soon be traveling out of the country," Lestrade read off the cookie. He sighed as he ate a piece of cookie, the almond taste perfect with the tea. "I just hope it's not for work. Jurisdictional issues are a pain. How about yours?"

Stranger: "An unexpected relationship will become permanent," Mycroft read off. "With the 'lucky numbers' of three, fifty-six, thirty-two, thirty-eight, twenty-five, and forty-two."

You: "Hey, the answer to life, the universe, and everything," Lestrade laughed, wondering what his lucky numbers were. "Mine are eight, sixteen, thirty-six, fourty-four and fifty."

Stranger: "When Sherlock was a child, he used to put 'in my pants' at the end of each of the readings," Mycroft chuckled, placing his sheet of paper to the side and picking off a piece of cookie. "He was about seven. He would have gotten a kick out of these."

You: "My friends used to add "in bed" to the end of each one," Lestrade replied, eating more of his cookie. "We got some interesting sentences and it never failed to crack us all up. So, do you have to head back to work once we're done or are you free?"

Stranger: "I'm free unless Anthea texts me otherwise," Mycroft said, still - he refused to call it a giggle - chuckling as he thought of a young Sherlock running up to Mycroft's bedroom, knocking on it and running in with a small paper in his hand. He could hear the little boy now, "My! My, you have to hear this one!" "And what does this one say, Sherlock?" he would ask the giggling little boy, bending over in his desk chair to look the boy in the eyes. "An unexpected relationship will become permanent... IN MY PANTS!" The little boy would burst into laughter, screaming the last part through his giggles. "Isn't that funny, My?" He was snapped out of his thoughts by Greg's voice.

You: "Mycroft?" Lestrade repeated for the third time, an amused smile on his face. "I paid the check, if you're ready to leave. You went somewhere, huh? What were you thinking about?"

Stranger: "Nothing, really," Mycroft said, the smile on his lips saying otherwise. "Just thinking of a younger easier to handle Sherlock. We used to be so close..."

You: Lestrade stood and held out his hand again to Mycroft. He waited until the other man had taken it then started walking towards the exit. "He seems to be getting a little better," Lestrade noted, holding the door for Mycroft. "And so does your relationship. Just give it some time and relax from being the British Government, as he calls you."

Stranger: "I'm trying," Mycroft said, nodding. He wanted their relationship to go back to as simply as it was back when Sherlock was just a kid and Mycroft was in High School. It had been fun, easy. Sherlock trusted him and looked up to him at that time. If only he had been more careful before going to Uni.

You: "That's all any of us can do, you know," Lestrade reassured him, nudging his shoulder. When they got to his car, Lestrade leaned over and mouthed lightly at Mycroft's ear. "But for now, how about we head home? I've got some plans I'd like to indulge in with you."

Stranger: Mycroft moaned quietly and leaned up into Greg's touch, his eyes falling closed as his free hand took Greg's waist. "Sounds perfect, dear," he breathed, pulling Greg in for a breathless kiss.

You: "Did you drive or did you take a cab this morning?" Lestrade whispered, his breath ghosting over Mycroft's lips. "Because if you took a cab, you are getting into my car and we are going home."

Stranger: "Drove," Mycroft growled, rolling his eyes. "I'm parked about ten minutes that way." He nodded in the direction of his car. He didn't want to leave Greg yet, not to drive home, not to walk to his car, nothing.

You: Lestrade groaned but pressed a hard kiss to Mycroft's lips. "Go, drive," he said shortly, kissing Mycroft one more time before nudging him in the direction of his car. "I'll drive home and be waiting for you."

Stranger: "Fine," Mycroft growled, kissing Greg once more before, regretfully, letting go. He watched over his shoulder as Greg climbed into his car and drove away before starting the ten minute walk to his own car, wishing he hadn't parked so far away.

You: Lestrade drove carefully but quickly, making it back home in about twenty minutes. He had just enough time to get everything set up. Grabbing the handcuffs he'd fantasized about earlier, Lestrade headed into the house with a grin on his face.

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