Watching You Fall 39

-----------------------Chapter 13--------------------------

You: The next morning, John woke early to his regular nightmare. It hadn't faded, even after so many months. Unable to stay in bed with the image of Sherlock lying bloody on the pavement on his mind, John got up and dressed quickly. He decided not to bother Mycroft and Lestrade and headed back to his own flat.

Stranger: John took a cab back to 221B and unlocked the front door. He took the steps carefully, not wanting to wake Mrs. Hudson, and made sure to skip over the seventh, knowing it protested loudly when stepped on. Slowly and quietly, he made his way up to his flat.

You: He sighed and walked into the kitchen to make toast for breakfast. After it had popped up out of the toaster and he spread butter on it, John took his toast back to the desk in the living room. He opened his laptop to start going over the last few chapters of his novel.

Stranger: John scanned over the last couple of chapters and fixed the errors he found. After correcting all he could find, he put the finished document into an email and sent it to both Greg and Mycroft. Sighing, John leaned back in his chair and yawned, glancing up at the clock to see it was almost nine.

You: John stretched his arms over his head, trying to decide what he wanted to do today. It was still early, so anything was possible. As he was thinking, his phone rang.

Stranger: "John," Moran said as the line was answered, not even bothering for a hello. "You find anything?"

You: "Hello, Colonel," John said, stalling for time. "And I haven't found anything yet. I thought I recognized one of the men, but looking at the sketch again, it's not quite right. Have you seen either of them again?"

Stranger: Moran sighed loudly and tapped his fingers against his knee. "No, I haven't. Come on, John. You need to figure this out."

You: "I will try, but I can't guarantee anything," John said, a frisson of fear running down his spine at the bite in Moran's words. Now he could hear the danger the man represented.

Stranger: "That's not an option, John," Moran growled, his teeth grinding. "You will find out who it is, or else." Then, the line went dead.

You: "And that wasn't disturbing at all," John murmured sarcastically to his phone. He checked the time again and noticed that the call had only taken a few minutes. He decided it was early enough to call Mycroft and Lestrade and dialed Lestrade's cell.

Stranger: "'ello?" Lestrade slurred, taking his phone off the bedside table, whispering as to not wake Mycroft.

You: "Sorry to wake you, Greg," John said, wincing. "But I just got a rather disturbing call from Moran. You got a minute?"

Stranger: "Sure," Lestrade yawned, quietly getting out of bed and slipping out of the room, closing the door behind him. He moved to the living room and sat on the couch, not bothering to put his robe on seeing Mycroft was the only other in the flat, and he sees him naked all the time. "So what happened, John?"

You: "Moran called and wanted to know if I'd found anything yet," John explained, taking a deep breath. "I told him that I hadn't had a chance yet and that I'd thought I'd recognized one of the men in the sketch. But I lied and said when I looked again, I didn't. He warned me this needed to get done and I told him I couldn't guarantee anything. He told me to get the information or else and hung up."

Stranger: "God, this isn't good... John, listen, I don't want you leaving your flat. Keep your gun with you at all times, close or block the windows so no one can see in, and don't just open the door without looking first," Lestrade said, running his hand through his hair. "I need to talk to Mycroft to get a better plan underway, but until then, please stay at your flat, and call me if you need something."

You: John laughed a little nervously, one hand fiddling with the pen on his desk. "You make it sound like he's going to wage all-out war against me, Greg," John said. "Do you really believe I need to do all of that right now?"

Stranger: "John, this is nothing to take lightly," Lestrade said urgently. "I don't know if you really need to, but I want you to. I can't watch you die, John."

You: "All right," John said, sighing. "I'll cover all my windows with dark curtains and I won't go anywhere. Can you call me as soon as Mycroft figures something out?" John glanced around the room, trying to figure out how many windows he had to cover.

Stranger: "Of course. Text me if anything else comes up. I'll call you in an hour or so. Bye, John," Lestrade said, standing.

You: "Yeah, thanks Greg," John said, hanging up the phone. He stood and carefully covered up all the windows, acting as if it was just a normal day. He didn't want to do anything to provoke Moran. John then took stock of his kitchen and decided that he would be needing groceries in a couple days. He only hoped this situation didn't last that long.

Stranger: Lestrade stood and stretched, turning to head back to the bedroom and jumping when he saw Mycroft standing in the doorway in his bathroom. He blushed deeply when he remembered he was still naked in the middle of the living room, and suddenly became really self concious about it, regardless of how many times Mycroft had seen him this way. "M-Morning," he greeted, scratching the back of his neck.

You: "Morning, love," Mycroft drawled, letting his eyes sweep over Greg's form. "I think I really enjoy you living here if I can wake up to this in the morning." His smile faded when he saw the serious look on Greg's face. "What's wrong, love?"

Stranger: "John's bring threatened, Mycroft," Lestrade said, sitting down on the couch and crossing his legs so Mycroft wouldn't be so easily distracted. He took a pillow from next to him and hugged it to his chest, making sure it covered his lap as well. He indicated for Mycroft to join him. "I told him not to leave his flat, and to make sure no one can see in. We need to figure out a way to protect him, babe."

You: Mycroft settled down next to Greg, a small smile dancing across his face at the man's actions. He placed his hand over Greg's forearm while he thought out the implications of what he'd said. "We have to move him," Mycroft said. "Get him out of Moran's sights."

Stranger: "To where?" Lestrade asked, leaning his head on Mycroft's shoulder. "You know he won't want to sell 221B, and he doesn't have money to pay for two flats..."

You: "No, not sell 221B," Mycroft said. "Maybe I can move him into a safe house. I know of several unoccupied ones the government keeps. He could even move in here but I'm worried that if Moran saw me, he would kill everyone here."

Stranger: "Oh... Don't say that, babe..." Lestrade said, closing his eyes. He couldn't, and didn't want to, picture a world without Mycroft, if somehow he, himself, managed to escape. "Let's move him to a safe house. Somewhere semi-close by, that way we can still help him if he... becomes depressed again."

You: Mycroft pulled Greg into a hug, resting his chin on the other man's shoulder. "All right, that sounds better," he said softly. "Now the trick is just convincing John to move out of his flat for the time being."

Stranger: "I'll call him later and talk to him," Lestrade said uncrossing his legs, crossing them again almost at once when he remembered why he crossed them in the first place. He felt a blush creep up his neck once again.

You: "I have to admit, I'm surprised to see you shy in your own home, Greg," Mycroft murmured, his eyes tracing Greg again. "You don't have to hide from me, love."

Stranger: "It wouldn't have been good to be... exposed during a serious conversation, is all," Lestrade said back, his voice softening as Mycroft's hand traced his side down to the pillow, taking the corner. Lestrade released his grip on the pillow enough that, if Mycroft really wanted to, he could pull it out of his arms easily.

You: Mycroft eased the pillow away and folded Greg further into his arms. "I love you, you know that? Always so practical," Mycroft mused. He pressed a kiss to Greg's temple as he rubbed a hand down his back.

Stranger: Lestrade leaned his head back and moved to catch Mycroft's lips with his own. "I love you too, babe," Lestrade whispered against his lips, keeping the kiss light and loving.

You: Mycroft teased with his lips, pressing lightly and pulling away. When they were both breathless, Mycroft finally brushed a final kiss to Greg's lips and pulled away. "We should probably get all this going," he said regretfully. "I don't want John there any longer than he has to be."

Stranger: "I know you're right," Lestrade sighed, running his hands from Mycroft's cheeks to the bottom of his neck. "Maybe tonight, we can finish?" He leaned in and planted another light kiss to Mycroft's lips.

You: "Course, love," Mycroft said. He unwrapped his arms from around Greg and stood, running a hand over his face. "I've got so much planning to do," he said quietly. "And I'm going to need your help for a lot of it. Do you have to go into the office today?"

Stranger: "I'll call and see if Anderson can fill in for me..." Lestrade said, standing and stretching.

You: "Oh dear," Mycroft said dryly. "I hope no new cases come in, then." He grinned at Greg and headed back to their bedroom to get dressed for the day.

Stranger: Lestrade chuckled and followed Mycroft to get dressed. He had no desire to be calling Anderson naked, even if the man couldn't see him, it just felt weird. He changed quickly, trying to avoid looking over at Mycroft as to not get any urges to just take him down on the bed and forget about John. As soon as he finished, he went out to the living room to call Anderson.

You: "Anderson, I need you and Donovan to take over today," Lestrade said when Anderson picked up his phone. "I have a family emergency I need to take care of."

Stranger: "Family emergency?" Anderson asked. "Is everything alright?"

You: "It will be," Lestrade assured him. "I just need some time to deal with everything. Thanks."

Stranger: "No problem, good luck with everything," Anderson said before he hung up and sighed. "Lestrade won't be in today," he called to Donovan as he started towards her office.

You: "Really?" Donovan asked when Anderson made it into her office. "Everything ok with him?"

Stranger: "Family emergency," Anderson shrugged. "I didn't even think he had any close family."

You: "I think he has a sister or something," Donovan shrugged. "He's rather close-lipped when it comes to his family. But today is shaping up to be slow, so I guess we won't need him."

Stranger: "I never hear anything, but whatever. I'm not complaining about a relaxing day at work," Anderson said and he made his way to the door. "I'll be in my office if you need me."

You: "Yeah," Donovan said absently as she went through her emails. If they were lucky, no one would be killed today and they could just stay here in the office.

Stranger: Lestrade went into the kitchen to find Mycroft sitting at the table, papers laid out in front of him and his phone standing nearby. Lestrade went up behind him and wrapped his arms around Mycroft's neck, hugging him. "I got out for the day," he said with a kiss to Mycroft's temple. "Anything I can help with?"

You: "If you could call John for me?" Mycroft asked, not looking up from the paperwork. "I'm trying to find a nearby safehouse that isn't being used."

Stranger: "Sure, love," Lestrade smiled, running his hands a few times over Mycroft's shoulders. He moved around and sat down across from Mycroft, pulling out his phone and calling up John. "John? Hey, it's Greg."

You: "Hello, Greg," John replied, his voice tense. "Have you and Mycroft found a solution yet?"

Stranger: "We have," Lestrade said, stealing a glance at Mycroft. "Mycroft is currently looking into nearby safehouses. We want to move you there, just for a little while, until this all blows over and we are sure you're safe."

You: "Move?" John asked flatly. "Wouldn't he just follow me wherever I go? If Moran has the resources Moriarty had, he could just simply track my cellphone or hack into the government databases."

Stranger: Lestrade sighed and ran a hand through his hair. "You're right... Although, knowing Mycroft, he will make sure the government databases are clean. But if he can track you with cellphone..." Lestrade looked at Mycroft, who was watching him.

You: "Have him leave his cellphone in his flat," Mycroft murmured. "I can get him a burner phone."

Stranger: Lestrade nodded. "John, leave your cellphone in your flat when you leave," he said, keeping his eyes locked on Mycroft's. "He said he can get you a burner phone."

You: "Fine," John sighed. "Do you have any idea how long I'm going to be out of here? If we want it to seem like I'm still living in 221B, I can't leave with a giant suitcase."

Stranger: "We don't know..." Lestrade said slowly. "But only bring what you really need. I'll go out and buy you new clothes and other things. Just pack a small backpack with things most important to you living there, like your laptop and, maybe, that note Sherlock left you. Then things like your toothbrush and stuff."

You: "You don't need to buy me clothes," John protested. "I can make up a bag or something and you can come grab it. If Moran sees, he'll probably assume I'm giving you stuff."

Stranger: "We can try that," Lestrade said slowly, his eyes final drifting from Mycroft's to look down across the papers on the table. "When shall I come by? I can take the bag and tell you where you're going. I don't want to text it to you or tell you over phone in case it can be hacked."

You: "Give me an hour?" John suggested. He looked around the flat and tried to decide what he wanted to take. "Then I should be ready."

Stranger: "Alright, shall I bring lunch or something? Seeing it will be near lunch time when I come around," Lestrade suggested, Mycroft looking back up at him as he suggested it.

You: "That sounds good. Just bring whatever you want over," John said. "I'm not feeling that picky today. See you then, Greg."

Stranger: "Bye, John." Lestrade hung up and put the phone back on the table. He looked back up at Mycroft.

You: Mycroft tapped on one of the papers in front of him, a smile crossing his face. "I found one," he said happily. "It's a couple blocks from here so we'll be able to keep an eye on him."

Stranger: "That's perfect!" Lestrade said, standing and coming around to look at the paper over Mycroft's shoulder. "You're amazing," he said as he leaned over and kissed the top of Mycroft's head.

You: Mycroft grinned at Greg and wrapped an arm around his waist. "Thanks love," he said. "Now we just need to get John out of there safely."

Stranger: "That will hopefully be the easy part," Lestrade said, running a hand through Mycroft's slick, soft hair. "I should head out soon if I'm going to make it to John's with lunch. Do you want me to pick something up for you on the way back?"

You: "No thank you," Mycroft replied, a bit sadly. "I'm still working on my diet and eating out is not a good idea."

Stranger: "Hun, you don't need a diet," Lestrade soothed, running his hand through his lover's hair again. "You're perfect."

You: Mycroft kissed Greg in reply, a pleasant tingle stealing through him. "Why don't I join you when you go over to John's?"

Stranger: "I'd love that," Lestrade smiled, looking lovingly into Mycroft's deep eyes. "But what about Moran? What if he sees us together and recognizes us?"

You: "Damn it, you're right," Mycroft said, shaking his head. "I'm not doing all this just to put John in danger again. Sometimes, I really hate that sniper."

Stranger: "I'll bring you something home, then we can relax and watch a movie or something, okay?" Lestrade said, sitting on Mycroft's lap and cupping his face. "This is such an amazing thing you are doing, Mycroft. Both Sherlock and John will be so grateful in the end."

You: "We can only hope," Mycroft replied, looking at the clock. "You should get going. I still have a lot of work to do to set this up." He brushed his lips over Greg's again and let him go.

Stranger: "I love you," Lestrade smiled as he stood and went to get his coat. "Is there something special you want? Or do you care?"

You: "No, nothing special love," Mycroft replied. He pulled out his cellphone and started writing a lengthy set of instructions for Anthea. "Just whatever catches your eye when you head back. I love you, Greg."

Stranger: "Be back in a few hours," he called as he shut the door behind him. He made the walk out to his car, unlocked it, and started it up, pulling out of the lot and starting towards John's, watching for a restaurant.

You: He saw an Italian place about halfway to John's flat and stopped to get food for both of them. By the time he got to John's, the hour was almost up and Lestrade kept looking around for Moran. He felt like he was being watched and he'd been a detective long enough to trust his instincts.

Stranger: He knocked on the door and smiled as Mrs. Hudson opened the door, stepping back and waving him inside. "Evenin' Mrs. Hudson. Hope all is well," Lestrade smiled, as he wiped his feet on the mat, balancing the food in one hand and the drinks he had bought the two of them in the other.

You: "It is, dear," Mrs. Hudson replied, smiling at Lestrade. "Here to see John again? He sounds like he could use the company. I've been hearing him pacing for the past couple hours."

Stranger: "Ah, yes, he's a little... on the edge at the moment. He called me so we can work things out in his life, thus the food and all," Lestrade said, indicating the food with a nod.

You: Mrs. Hudson's smile grew wider and she impulsively hugged Lestrade. "Good," she said. "He needs someone to be on his side and help him sometimes. He still has nightmares late at night. I can hear him screaming sometimes."

Stranger: "Screaming?" Lestrade frowned, creasing his brow. "He screams?"

You: She looked up the stairs, as if to make sure that John was still behind a closed door. She lowered her voice and said, "I hear him yelling Sherlock's name and stop a lot. I think he has nightmares of that day."

Stranger: "Oh," Lestrade said, his frown deepening. If only he knew the truth..., he thought as he said goodbye to Mrs. Hudson and went up to knock on John's door with his foot.

You: John opened the door after a few moments and Lestrade could tell he was looking out of the peephole like he'd been instructed. "Hello, Greg," John said, opening the door and ushering Lestrade in.

Stranger: "Hi, John," Lestrade said, placing the food on a nearby table. He pulled John into a hug for a few moments.

You: John melted into the hug, tension and fear overwhelming him. This was different than the danger he'd been in in the military. This was someone specifically targeting him and he didn't like it at all.

Stranger: "How are you feeling?" Lestrade asked, holding out the hug. "I know this was all just kinda dumped on you."

You: "A little turned-around," John admitted, pulling back from the hug. Though he kept one hand on Lestrade's arm, needing the contact. "I mean, I didn't know Moran all that well but I still trusted him. He was one of us."

Stranger: "I understand. And I'm sorry it came to be like this," Lestrade said, giving John a sad smile. "The good news is Mycroft found a safehouse just down the street from us, so you'll be close by."

You: "That isn't going to put you guys in danger, will it?" John asked sharply. "If Moran sees Mycroft again, he will probably recognize him."

Stranger: "He's in no more danger than he would be," Lestrade sighed. "I'm not going to let him leave the flat as much as I can help it."

You: John nodded and stepped away, gesturing to the small bag that sat next to the door. "I've got clothes in there," he explained. "And all the important things I need are in my laptop case. How do you want to head over to the safehouse?"

Stranger: "I figured I'll go first, taking your things over to the safehouse and setting everything up for you, then you can head over about two hours after I leave? Would that work for you?" Lestrade asked, moving over and handing John his lunch.

You: John took the container and opened it to find chicken carbonara. He walked into the kitchen to start tea and grab forks before he replied. "Yeah, that sounds like a plan," he said. "I've been looking carefully out my windows for Moran, but I haven't seen him."

Stranger: "Well, that's  a good sign, at least," Lestrade said. "Oh, and I have drinks here, if you want one."

You: John took the soda and sat down at the desk. He'd already packed his laptop up, so the desk only had a few pens and some papers on it. "I'm sorry to put you guys to so much trouble," John said, looking down at his food.

Stranger: "No, John, it's not trouble," Lestrade said, sitting on the couch and placing his soda on the table in front of him, opening his box of curry. "We just want you safe, and it's not like you planned for this to happen."

You: John shook his head and started eating, many thoughts running through his head. He didn't completely understand why Moran would still be watching him so long after Sherlock's death but he supposed it didn't matter. "I can help you guys get to Moran," he finally said. "He trusts me at the moment."

Stranger:  "Mycroft and I talked about that, and we both agreed we don't want to put you in harm's way any more than you may already be," Lestrade said through a mouthful of curry.

You: "I understand that. I really do," John said. "But if using me is the only way to get to him, then remember that I've volunteered. Moriarty is not going to win, even dead."

Stranger: "We won't call on you to do anything except as the last choice," Lestrade shook his head. "Mycroft can handle things. He's smart enough to figure this out."

You: John let it go then, knowing any arguments he made would be countered by Lestrade. But he made plans of his own, in case he ever saw Moran again. Mycroft wouldn't need to worry about taking care of the man if that happened.

Stranger: Lestrade fell into silence, eating his dinner slowly and enjoying just being with John. He knew he was worried, and who wouldn't be, but John was strong enough to handle himself.

You: They sat in a companionable silence until the last bits of their dinner were eaten. "All right, so Operation Trick Moran is now starting, huh?" John joked, needing something to help ease the tension he still felt.

Stranger: "If you're ready," Lestrade said, standing and taking John's box, going to the trash can.

You: John sighed and stood, grabbing his bag from the floor next to the door. He handed it to Lestrade when he walked back. Impulsively, John hugged him again. "Sorry," he said, backing away. "But I really think this whole thing is driving me crazy. See you in two hours?"

Stranger: "Don't say sorry," Lestrade smiled, pulling John into a hug. "You know I don't mind. And yes, two hours. I'll come by later to make sure you're alright and all, but I won't be there when you first get there."

You: "Be safe," John muttered, feeling embarrassed. He closed the door behind Lestrade as the other man left and locked it carefully. He sat in his armchair and looked at his phone, wishing with all his might that he could text Sherlock. Which he decided to do anyway, not expecting an answer.
Mycroft told me why you did it. I wish you had told me, Sherlock. - JW

Stranger: Sherlock stared at the text message, wishing he could text John back. Locking and saving the message, he pocketed the phone again.

You: John waited the two hours, alternating staring at his phone and talking with the skull that still adorned the mantle. When the clock struck noon, he picked up his laptop case and locked the door behind him. He hailed a cab and directed the driver to the address Lestrade had given him.

Stranger: Lestrade re-entered his flat and looked around the living room. "Mycroft? I'm home, and I have your food," Lestrade called, abandoning his coat.

You: "In the kitchen," Mycroft yelled back, his voice full of annoyance. He hadn't moved in the several hours Greg had been gone and he was busily talking on his phone and writing notes.

Stranger: Lestrade moved into the kitchen and saw the annoyance on his lover's face right away. With concern, he set the food on the end of the table and moved around to place his hand on Mycroft's arm, not wanting to bother him too much.

You: Mycroft smiled at Greg then snarled into the phone. Finally getting his way, as he knew he would from the beginning of the call, Mycroft hung up and pulled Greg down for a kiss. "Hi, love," he murmured.

Stranger: "Everything alright?" Lestrade asked as Mycroft broke the kiss. "You looked upset."

You: "It will be," Mycroft promised, glaring at his phone again. "Some of my orders to Anthea didn't go down well with my superiors. I just had to convince them. And the safehouse is in use under my name."

Stranger:  "Won't that be dangerous? What if Moran-" Lestrade was cut off by Mycroft's lips attacking his own.

You: "He doesn't.... know my... name," Mycroft said between kisses. "And John's name... won't appear... at all." He slid his hands up into Greg's hair, holding him close.

Stranger: "Good..." Lestrade managed out before Mycroft attacked again. "God, Mycroft..."

You: "I hate dealing with bureaucratic paper pushers with nothing but the bottom line on their minds," Mycroft hissed, moving down to nip at Greg's neck. "The only thing that kept me from snapping was imagining kissing you senseless when you got back."

Stranger: "Then do so," Lestrade growled. He pulled Mycroft closer and ground his hips against Mycroft. Pulling him back up, Lestrade attacked Mycroft messily, his lips kissing all over his lower face.

You: Mycroft pulled back on Greg's hair, tilting his head so that he could claim his lips. He sucked the lower one in between his teeth and bit down gently, laving his tongue over the bite. Mycroft then plunged his tongue into Greg's mouth and devoured him.

Stranger: Lestrade moaned loudly and felt Mycroft pushing him back. He let himself be pushed right back into a wall, Mycroft's body pinning him there. He kissed back roughly, feeling his lips growing raw and red.

You: Mycroft sucked on Greg's tongue and teased him mercilessly. He leaned back a bit and nipped at his bottom lip again. "If I didn't have a lot more work to do," Mycroft panted. "I wouldn't be stopping at kissing you, love."

Stranger: "After," Lestrade panted, running his hand down and cupping Mycroft through the fabric. He kissed him deeply again, keeping his hand on Mycroft's erection, and moaned as Mycroft whipped his tongue over his lips.

You: "Perfect," Mycroft said, his lips moving against Greg's as he spoke. "Keep your night free if you can, love." With a final kiss, Mycroft stepped back and brushed a hand down his shirt. His phone beeped and he glared at it, knowing it was probably Anthea.

Stranger: Lestrade watched as Mycroft moved over and sat with his phone to his ear, his face going hard and serious again. His eyes trailed down Mycroft's body and smiled as he saw the slight bump of a growing erection, knowing he did that to him. Lestrade moved over and open the tray of food, setting it down with a fork in front of Mycroft and moving to make tea for the two of them, knowing Mycroft needed it more than ever.

You: "You have everything set?" Mycroft asked, picking up the fork and twirling some pasta onto it. "Excellent, thank you Anthea." He took a bite while listening and smiled at Greg. The food was perfect.

Stranger: Lestrade kept his back to Mycroft as he made the tea, making sure everything was perfect for him. He set the cup in front of his lover and sat down across from him, sipping his own cup and looking over the papers in front of Mycroft.

You: "No, I don't know how long I'll be needing the house," Mycroft snapped. "It could be anything from two days to even two years! Yes, I know my superiors won't like it. Don't worry, I have ways around it." He sipped at the tea and held back another sigh of happiness.

Stranger: Lestrade watched Mycroft sadly, seeing how stressed he really was. He told himself to remember to give Mycroft a nice message when they were done.

You: "No, I don't need you to stop by there and stock the house," Mycroft continued. "Thank you, I know this has been difficult for you to accomplish in the time frame I've given you. Remind me to give you a bonus for this. Goodbye, Anthea." Mycroft hung up the phone and looked into Greg's eyes. "The tea and pasta are perfect, thanks love," he said, taking Greg's hand with his free one.

Stranger: Lestrade stood and moved around to behind Mycroft, placing his hands on his shoulders and digging his fingers into the tense muscles under the skin. "You're welcome, babe," he whispered, kissing the top of Mycroft's head. "Are you alright?"

You: "I will be," Mycroft replied, leaning back into Greg's hands. "This is really frustrating. And the more so because I believe John could really help if he were told everything."

Stranger: "But you know he could be killed if we tell him," Lestrade said softly, running his hands down Mycroft's arms before going back to working on the knots.

You: Mycroft closed his eyes and rested his hands on the table, tilting his head a bit so Greg could get to the knots in his neck. "I know," he murmured. "That's what's driving me crazy with all this. He would be the perfect spy, let's say, with Moran but if Moran even got a hint that Sherlock was alive, John would be killed."

Stranger: Lestrade sighed as he continued to work the knots. "Things will all work out in the end, with or without John helping us. He's alive and safe and that's what's important."

You: "I know but how long will he stay that way?" Mycroft asked, worry in his voice. "It seems like everything he deals with drives him further and further into a depression. Sherlock gave him a life he cared about and now that John believes him gone, how much longer will he last?"

Stranger: Lestrade shook his head, resting his forehead against the top of Mycroft's head. "I know, I know..." he said at length, running his hands down to Mycroft's and taking them. "I'm doing my best to keep him away from the edge, but everytime I pull him back, he goes right back, ready to jump... I don't know how much longer we can do that to him... But we have to try."

You: Mycroft squeezed Greg's hand and nodded. He felt much better, most of the tension gone from his shoulders. And now things were looking up. "Well, we've accomplished the first part at least," Mycroft said. "Getting him away from Moran is important. Speaking of that, when are you needing to meet John at the safehouse?"

Stranger: "I told him later today," Lestrade sighed, kissing the crown of his head, breathing in Mycroft's scent. "Why you ask?"

You: "Because I don't want him standing outside on the doorstep," Mycroft explained. "The door is locked and you need a key to get in. Anthea should be bringing it in the next hour."

Stranger: "I was already there, love. The door wasn't locked, and John should be there by now as well," Lestrade said, lifting his head and raising an eyebrow.

You: "What?" Mycroft asked, an edge of panic in his voice. He turned around in the chair and stared up at Greg. "How long ago were you there? And did you see anything out place?"

Stranger: "Only an hour or so ago," Lestrade said, moving back a little to look down at Mycroft, noting the panic sketched on his face. "What's wrong?"

You: "The place should have been locked tight," Mycroft explained tersely. "That safehouse hasn't been used in about 6 months. There should be a layer of dust over things. If it wasn't, that means someone's been there who wasn't supposed to be."

Stranger: Lestrade froze, his heart stopping. "Do you think... Moran..?" Lestrade forced out, his voice hoarse.

You: Mycroft thought furiously, his lips moving silently. "I hope not," he finally said. "But there is always that possibility. We need to go, now." He stood up and hurried into the foyer, grabbing his coat from the closet.

Stranger: "Oh, no, Mycroft," Lestrade said, standing in front of him so he couldn't get to the door, putting his jacket on at the same time. "I'm not letting you go."

You: "Greg, if Moran has already found the safehouse, you're going to need help," Mycroft growled. "And I'm not leaving John alone there or putting you in any more danger than need be."

Stranger: "Mycroft, if Moran sees you, John and I will be in even more danger, not to mention you. He'll kill John and I on the spot and go after you, if not killing you as well. I'm not letting you go just to lose you," Lestrade growled, placing his hands on Mycroft's shoulders.

You: Mycroft glared at Greg, anger and worry skating over his face. Finally, his shoulders slumped and he looked away. "Fine, I'll stay here," he said softly, gripping Greg's forearms. "But you need to be careful. Make sure you're armed when you go."

Stranger: "I have my gun in my car. Don't worry, babe, I'm trained for this kind of stuff," Lestrade said, kissing Mycroft quickly. "If I need help, I can call Donovan and Anderson for backup."

You: "Call me when you get there and have made sure John is safe," Mycroft ordered, pulling Greg into a hug. He let the other man go as his phone rang yet again, rolling his eyes in it's general direction.

Stranger: "I will, I love you, babe," Lestrade pecked Mycroft on the lips once again and rushed out the door, jumping in his car.

You: Mycroft headed back into the kitchen to answer his phone, prepared to wage war with anyone who tried to get in his way. And figure out who could possibly have been at the safehouse before Greg got there.

Stranger: Lestrade pulled into a spot outside the safehouse maybe a little too quickly for comfort, and jumped out. He rushed up to the door and knocked, waiting for John to open the door.

You: John opened the door after checking who it was and stepped back in surprise when Lestrade pushed him back inside. "What's wrong?" John asked, all his senses screaming danger from Lestrade's actions.