(Sherlock’s POV: )

A raindrop landed on the tip of my nose and rolled down quickly.  The rain beat on my hood heavily, and was soaking through. I was across from 221b, staring into the window on the right side and watching the reflection of the fire dance on the clean glass. My hands were in my pockets, and people were pushing by me, rushing inside to nearby cafés as thunder presented itself in the distance. Mud was caked on my sneakers, as well as the back of my denim jeans. No one ever said disguising myself as a commoner would be luxurious, or even dignified.

I zipped my grey jacket, which was over my purple button-up, yet under a thicker winter coat. It wasn’t quite winter yet… It was autumn. In September. In the second week, and the same day. The same day as three years ago when I disappeared. Three years ago when I acted out the biggest lie in my life. I lied to different people. Dangerous people. All at the same time. I had too; I had to use the smoke and mirrors. Or else people would die. Important people. People I never thought I would care about. My friends. Because I didn’t only have one. And it was a weakness. It was a disadvantage. But it was a disadvantage that I didn’t mind having. They made me more human. I prospered because of it. And then I betrayed them. I lied, I broke their hearts. One more than any.

The army doctor suddenly appeared at the window, and I turned and walked away before he caught my eyes. I walked quickly and briskly against the rain, getting colder than ever. But one thought warmed me: I had won. It was time to reappear, and I had to start with one person.