End of the Year (Agnes/Casual)

[DR. JOHN WATSON]

I shouldn't have been in Times Square for this. It was all far too expensive here. I should just go to some thrift store on the edge of the city, but... I'd decided this was a big deal kind of event. It really needed some posh style, or at least I thought so. I mean, I was trying to get into the dating pool again, so what better way to do it than to impress them at this party?

I was pretty excited I think. I doubted I could convince Sherlock to come with me, but I was thinking about telling him it was a Murder Mystery party. He'd be disappointed with me with lying, but god I needed to get him out of the house! He solved cases in his armchair, smoking occasionally on cigarettes ("Put that OUT Sherlock!" was a common occurance in my speech) though he was trying to quit. He didn't often leave the flat, and when he did, he'd drag me with him even though I was most likely busy.

Who was I kidding? He'd be too perceptive and he'd know I was lying to him... Maybe I should go alone...

Ah! There, in the window! It was absolutely perfect. The suit was a deep blue, nearly black, and the tie was a bluish silver, and shimmered under the lights of Times Square. I walked closer, and thought how perfect it would be for the Mayor's party. I was surprised the thing was open to the public, but I'd heard there had been a Halloween party that was similar. This mayor seemed to really like his public.

I placed my palms on the window. What I wouldn't give to wear that to the party. I wonder if I would impress them, the women, the men... Probably not. Some army doctor wouldn't cut it among them. But maybe someone would be there, someone who thought I was good enough. Me, the common man in the nice suit.

I sighed when I saw the price tag. Great.

My head slumped against the glass. Maybe a cheap knockoff would be better after all.

[blackbird]

Agnes hummed under her breath as she walked down the street. Almost New Years. Hard to believe I've been here a year. Fingering her fiddle case, Agnes turned down one of the side streets. Suppose I should find something nice for the big party tonight. She grinned, picturing the giant gathering. Wouldn't they be shocked if they knew who was coming. A soft giggle slipped from her lips.


She flicked her gaze to the shops that lined the streets. That one looks promising. Her eyes lit up as she saw the man standing before the shop window. And he looks like just the sort to provide the cash. Sidling up to him, Agnes put a hand on his shoulder. "Afternoon. How's yourself this fine day?" A soft smile flitted about her lips. "Lovely day, isn't it?" All I have to do is distract him enough to get into his pocket.

[DR. JOHN WATSON]

I felt a hand on my shoulder. My first instinct? My gun. Where'd my hand go? To my pocket. Where are my thoughts? Who the fuck do I trust in New York City?

Certainly not this girl. I turned and raised my eyebrow cautiously, and slumped away slowly, out of her grasp and staring her down with my arm crossed over my stomach as I leaned on the window. If I learned anything from Sherlock, I know when to be perceptive. People don't just walk up to you with words like that.

I laughed. "If you were going to rob me, you'd be better off pretending like you bumped into me. Not very creative is it? Lovely day that lot..."

Good God was this girl gorgeous. Little young for me, sure, but then again, I'm open to anything. Wait, think John, think! Sherlock would be disappointed. Ignore her prettiness and focus on her narrowed eyes. "What are you doing bothering an old sod like me? Broke much?"

Not like I'm not. I rolled my eyes inwardly. Yep, that suit wasn't going to happen. Especially not if she got away with robbing me.