sherlylockslove:

“Sherlock’s Poppet.”

Even though Sherlock is not facing him when he enters the room and takes his coat off, John knows the look on Sherlock’s face says that he has made a decision that John would be unwise to counteract. His skills may not be as honed as Sherlock’s, but he deduces that it has something to do with the ball of fluff sat between his legs.

“Okay, out with it.” John turns to hang his coat.

“The killer’s dog, ‘Poppet’ here witnessed the murder. Poor environment for one so young, so after Lestrade made the arrest and left, I thought to provide her a more stable environment…”

John’s smile belays any minute considerations of asking the dog to go. He goes to join Sherlock on the sofa, mindful not to scare the small creature. He holds out his hand for Poppet to sniff before giving Sherlock a quick peck on the cheek. “You do have a way with bringing home strays…”