Sherlock 1. Chapter 1

Alexus set down the rather large box with a resounding thud. Not really caring who it bothered. She had three hours to finish unpacking, looking around, it did not look possible. What seemed like three _years_ later, she finished bringing in the last box. Now to for the real work. With a look of determination etched onto her face, she turned on her music and began.

While unpacking, her thoughts wandered back to her home. Had it really only been mere days since she was told she would be moving? She couldn't believe only three days ago her chief supervisor Aron Strauss had told her she would be moving to London to work with Scotland Yard. She was never given a reason why they needed someone over there, let alone why they had chosen her. Just that she would leaving in three days and she should probably pack an umbrella. When she finally asked her team supervisor about it, he had told her he wasn't given any information on it either.

Alexus thought about her team, the only people she could call family. She had spent four years of her life with them. They experienced the horrors together. Together they could get through anything. They had proven as much during their time as a team. The BAU had proven to be among the best of the FBI. They had conquered feats other behavioral analysts could only dream of. She was part of the best team in the world. Then there was the fact that they paid attention to everyone low or high profile alike. JJ was fair when choosing cases. She's been everywhere working for the BAU. From the big important LA to the tiny insignificant Keene TX. Of course in this line of work she'd had to put herself in the darkest place anyone could possibly go, the human mind. In all her years at the BAU Alexus had not only seen the cruelest of minds, but she had climbed inside and lived it. The job was straining, yet she couldn't imagine working anywhere else. The people she worked with were beautiful. They reminded her of the good that was left in the world. When she couldn't even find it in herself, she could always look to a colleague and reassurance and restored faith in humanity. All of that had been taken from her with a few sentences.

Five hours later her phone rang. Looking at her it, she recognized it as a London number. Deciding it was probably her new boss, she answered.

"King" Alexus answered hating the sound of her own voice. She despised formalities. She grinned wondering how long it would take for her to actually just give up and ditch them. Alexus decided she'd shoot for a couple months, not likely…one can always hope?

"Uh, hello…this is Gregory Lestrade." Lestrade waited for some kind of signal to keep going.

"Oh yes, of course how can I help you sir?" _There. That was very professional. _She thought to herself.

"Actually we just got a case, and I knew you weren't supposed to come in until tomorrow, but I just thought maybe you'd like to join us early?" he asked.

"That actually sounds wonderful!" She smiled thrilled with the thought of getting out of her flat.

"Alright. Well I'm my way to the scene. Do you need a ride?"

"You've got wings baby!" Alexus hung up and sighed. She took a quick peek at her clock. Five minutes. _Not quite two months but it'll have to do. _She quickly got ready to go.

Greg looked at his phone with a puzzled expression. Did she just call him _baby_? He couldn't help the chuckle that came next. Maybe she wouldn't be such a bother after all. He could only hope for the best considering they were stuck with her for the unforeseeable future.

The DI was a little nervous, though he'd never admit it. He knew how territorial Sally could get. He had tried to water down just how much of a big deal their newcomer was, trying to shield King from the inevitable hostility that would be thrown her way. He knew Sally well enough to know her reaction to having a member of one of the best teams in the world, in their division. As if he didn't enough trouble keeping it civil between her and his consultant. That right there was a whole new thought that filled him with dread.

Putting on his best soldier face he parked outside King's flat, stepped out and knocked on her door. He was not at all prepared for the woman that greeted him.

"Hello are you Alexus King?" Greg asked somewhat timidly.

"Yep" Alexus answered. Popping the _p. _"That's me. You must be DI Lestrade."

Greg reached out his hand in answer.

"Nice to meet you." Gesturing for the car he asked "Shall we?"

Alexus grinned. "Of course."

The ride over was pleasant each one getting a feel for the other. By the time they reached the scene both were feeling quite comfortable with each other. Alexus could see herself friends with her new partner. She was thrilled when he told her they'd be working together as partners. Surprising him somewhat, mainly because he was finding himself quite taken with her. Things could go very, very wrong if he wasn't careful.

"So I just want to give you a fair warning. Detective Sally Donovan can be very territorial and so might present herself a bit hostile…at first…and/or forever…" He said through a nervous chuckle.

"It's all right. I've spent the last four years catching serial killers, I can handle a disgruntled colleague." She answered with a smirk.

"Right…good point" He nodded.

The detective inspector had been careful to make sure Sherlock wasn't called in just yet so he wouldn't have to worry about that, almost certainly, disastrous introduction. He breathed in a sigh of relief at that little consolation.

"Graham!" exclaimed a very much unwelcomed consulting detective.

Greg closed his eyes in frustration.

"Sherlock what are you doing here?" He asked.

"Sally called me in. Imagine my surprise! Though by the look on your face you don't have to. You didn't tell her to, did you? Which means she did it for her own reasons. By your expression I can assume you aren't relieved to see me so she probably invited me to spite you. But Why? Maybe because you kept her away from a case?" At which point Sherlock took in the DI's reaction trying to read something from it. _Nothing._

"So maybe she's angry for calling her in tonight" Another look, _nothing. _

"Or perhaps you are hiding something from me?" Quick glance in his direction and he saw he was definitely on the right track. "You are hiding _something… _no perhaps _someone_?" Sherlock smirked. He smirked.

"Listen Sherlock we have a new person on the team. I wanted to wait for introductions till we were all well rested. Try not to be too cruel."

Sherlock scoffed. Till he saw John coming. At which point he straightened and gave the Inspector a nod.

"Good. This way." Greg led the way gulping in his nerves.

Sherlock looked around the staircase taking in every detail. When his eyes fell on a figure in the doorway of the crime scene. Striding towards it he realized it was a woman. Long black hair, 167 cm tall, and 8 st. She was very well proportioned. Definitely someone who never lacked in attention from the opposite sex. He continued to stare. Jeans, casual shirt, leather jacket, Chucks. _Casual, easy-going, practical_. Obviously has a job that requires movement and isn't foolish enough to wear the usual heels blouse and pencil skirt that women in Scotland Yard seemed to favor. So not a cop. Looking closer he noticed drawings on her sneakers. _Creative. _Little to no makeup. _Got dressed in a hurry. _Hair tie around the wrist, no phone. _Forgetful. _Looking to the left he saw a messenger bag over her shoulder. _Not forgetful…prepared._

It was at this point looked up and met his eyes. Sherlock wasn't sure what he expected but it definitely hadn't been this. She had the most startlingly beautiful green eyes that contrasted her dark olive skin to perfection. For a minute Sherlock forgot to carry out the rest of his inspection. Before he had time to process anything else, Lestrade was introducing them.

"Sherlock this is Alexus King. She's new to our department."


	2. Chapter 2

Chapter 2

"Pleasure to meet you." Alexus greeted holding out her hand.

John looked at the newcomer marveling in the depth of her green eyes. She was beautiful. Yet not overly so. It was a strange kind of simple beauty he'd never seen before. John stopped himself mid thought realizing she hadn't run away crying. _That's strange. _Looking up at Sherlock, John saw his friend's face slightly stiff…well more than ordinary. He looked agitated.

"American. You surprise me Lestrade, couldn't you find anyone less competent? Clearly she can't have been in law enforcement for long. Taking into account her age I'd say no more than two years. More than likely less. By the state of her dress I'd say she obviously doesn't take her job seriously. Wearing jeans to work, completely unprofessional. Then there are the sneakers. At the very least you could find someone to pretend to care. I'd say incompetent was a bit easy on her." Sherlock looked to her expecting to see tears of hurt in her ridiculous eyes. Instead he saw complete indifference. Nothing to note she'd listened to a word he said.

"And you are?" She asked smiling quite mischievously at John, who quite frankly looked shocked at her lack of response to Sherlock's blatant attack.

"John Watson. It's nice to see a new face. Miss King" He said not caring for one second he was probably grinning like an idiot. He liked this girl. She had put Sherlock in his place by doing the one thing that would bother him most, she hadn't care a cent what he had to say. Didn't even seem to listen at all. She had him furious.

"Oh please just call me Alexus. Miss King sounds ridiculous."

Sherlock was flabbergasted! He'd never been ignored like that. He thought for sure her experience and youth would hit a soft spot with her. He had thought he would be intimidating by showing her who was really boss in this division. Looking over at her again he saw the ease at which she spoke to John. That was simply unacceptable! Walking to the body he decided to show off. That would show her just how out of her depths she really was.

"Woman. Age 37 judging by the class ring on her finger. He took another look. Belonged to a Sorority of some sort. Considering she still wears the ring, I'd say she's still involved in it somehow. Definitely not married. No kids. Nail biter, so she was either a naturally nervous person or she had a high stress job. Judging by her skirt suit and heels something formal, though again the lack of height on her heels would suggest something she walked around a lot for. Considering the sign out front I'd say she's realtor and was working to sell this house."

To his delight, he was once again the center of attention. His lips twitched slightly as it fought the triumphant smile begging an appearance.

Alexus finally spoke trying to break the silence and hold his declaration had created.

"Fascinating." She said letting a hint of boredom slip into her voice. "John you were saying you'd been in Afghanistan?"

A shocked silence filled the room. No one dismissed Sherlock like that. John stuttered trying to respond without showing his surprise.

"Yes I have. I served in the English army as a doctor."

"Who did you serve under? My team, you see, was called in to help with some suspected intentional friendly fire."

"Bloody hell! That was you? We never got to meet the team that caught him, we wanted to thank you. There's nothing worse than feeling unsafe in your own home."

"Unfortunately I understand that feeling all too well." Alexus responded quietly.

"Well." She said clapping her hands together. "I believe we have a murder to solve.

Sherlock, seeing his opportunity to revert attention back to himself began speaking again.

"I believe it's all but solved as I've already told you all you need to know about the victim."

"I never thanked you for your effort. You're quite good you know." She said with a wink.

Shocked silence filled the room. Anderson and Sally having just come in, had only the last few statements. Lestrade was floored. She couldn't possibly have caught something Sherlock hadn't. No one did'

"You will find, Mr. Holmes, that the victim is not only person that can be deduced in this room. We have yet to catch a killer. There are, however, a few corrections to be made. Though I appreciate you gentlemanly behavior, when a woman is murdered, I believe a gentleman can indeed look through her purse."

"I have no inclination to follow social cues Miss King."

"Really? I had no idea!" Alexus answered voice practically dripping with sarcasm.

"If you had looked in her purse, you would have found loose cereal and little candies. In my experience things carried by mothers to soothe a child's hunger. The cereal points to a toddler, the candy points to an older, school-aged boy."

"Boy?" Lestrade interrupted.

"There's also a toy car in the bag. Now moving on to the unsub."

"Unsub?" This time it was John who interrupted.

"Sorry it's a term we used back home _unknown subject_." She continued. "He is…"

"And so the guessing begins." Sherlock stated speaking of her presumption the killer was a man.

"Not at all. The wounds indicate she was hit repeatedly. The blood splatter on the wall hints at his swings reach. Going off that alone, _he_ is at least six feet tall. The crime was a one of opportunity. He didn't bother to take her purse and the fact that she wasn't carrying a wallet with her was simply luck on his part. She had probably left her purse on the mantel piece before he came in. She wasn't selling this house. She was looking to buy it. The room next door has color schemes on the floor as well as in the kitchen. I think she saw something or someone she shouldn't have. The fact that she didn't leave immediately suggests she didn't know she had seen anything of importance. We should be looking for whatever it was she saw. That will lead us to our killer."

Alexus finally stopped her assessment only to realize everyone in the room had halted what they were doing to stare at her. Alexus didn't understand why. Spence would've picked up on all of this in half the time she had. Morgan would have surely seen something she hadn't. At which point Spence would be figuring out what the victim had witnessed. Garcia would be tracking the house and its history while simultaneously working on searching for the victim. She was positive if Sherlock hadn't been in such a rush to prove himself top notch he would have caught most of it too. Well maybe not the killer part. That was her specialty.

"And who's this then?" Sally asked obviously very unhappy with her new colleague.

"Oh I'm sorry my name's Alexus King. I'm the new girl." Alexus answered for Lestrade noticing his rigid posture.

"Brilliant. That's all we need another bleeding Sherlock." Sally sardonically.

"I'm sorry if I got carried away. I suppose that was rather rude of me. But rest assured I am not a high functioning sociopath. Unless I'm wrong in my assessment of you." She said speaking to Sherlock. "Am I wrong Mr. Holmes?" She paused waiting for an answer. "No? Didn't think so."

"Alright I think we've done what we can for tonight. We'll pick it up tomorrow morning 8:00am sharp. See you all then." Lestrade called out.

Sherlock looked at the woman who had bested him. How had he not seen the spark of intelligence in her eyes? How had he missed that? No matter how much it bothered him he had to admit she was brilliant. His harsh words had been all completely ignored, his deductions proven wrong, his flat mate fascinated, and his DI impressed. He was, in fact, compromised.

That simply wouldn't do. He needed her gone. But first he needed her close. He would unravel her and to do that he would need her trust. Sherlock had done the dance with Molly and was delighted to find it worked. Sherlock decided the best plan of action was to charm her into a comfortable sense of security and then rip her to shreds. He was, after all, Sherlock Holmes. He could seduce the pants off a Mennonite.


	3. Chapter 3

Alexus watched Sherlock leave. Maybe she had been a bit mean…After all there was no need to make enemies so soon. Though she could already feel Donovan's eyes boring into to her as she stomped out. At least she had Greg. Speaking of which, where'd he swan off to? Walking outside she found him talking to Sherlock looking quite exasperated. _This man must have the patience of a saint._ Alexus thought to herself, as she approached them.

"Gentlemen." Alexus greeted.

"Alexus I was just going to see if you were ready to go." Lestrade responded.

"Whenever you are toots." She answered accompanied with a smile.

"Are you accustomed to speaking to near strangers with such familiarity, or is that is reserved for a special few?" Sherlock grunted.

"Aww. Sweetie all you have to do is ask, I'll be happy be flirt with you. Just don't go falling in love with me because I have _no _intention of following through." This was said with her most flirtatious wink she could manage. She was pleased to see a hint of a blush creep onto his pale cheeks.

"Please stop embarrassing yourself." He retorted.

"Oh love, I'm not the one blushing. It's getting cold, how bout we take off?" Alexus turned to the DI who was currently staring in stunned silence at his new partner's boldness.

"Oh yes. Of course." Lestrade said offering her his arm. He didn't miss the snort that escaped Sherlock.

Taking his arm she began her walk back to the car. Smiling to herself. Alexus was starting to think she would be alright after all. She would still miss her old job and team, but she could see herself enjoying her time here. She would most enjoy the game she had started with the obnoxious Sherlock Holmes.

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"You were amazing back there." Lestrade complimented once they reached the car.

"Thanks. I was taught well. I'm afraid not everyone was as impressed as you."

"You just have to give them time to get over themselves. They will, fairly quickly, once you prove you're nothing like everyone's favorite consulting detective."

"I'm just used to saying whatever I see. Back home that's what we did. We said what we saw and waited for our team mates to see something we didn't. That's why we were so good, everyone contributed. All-stars sell tickets, teams win games." Alexus quoted her mentor since childhood. He had told her that when she joined the team and it never left her.

"Unless the _all-star_ is Sherlock Holmes." Lestrade scoffed

Alexus smiled although she completely disagreed. Her team could beat Sherlock. No question. She could see Lestrade cared for Sherlock. She admired him for that. She was quickly coming to realize there was a lot she admired about this man… Maybe being partners wasn't such a grand idea. She could easily see herself liking him. She looked at him again. He had such a kind face. Worn and weathered, but kind. He looked over at her and smiled.

"Eyes front soldier." She teased grinning.

He laughed.

Alexus decided she liked his laugh. It was big and took up the whole car. She couldn't help but giggle with him.

"So did you always want to be a detective?" Greg asked once the laughter died down.

Alexus was surprised by the question. Her childhood was not something she enjoyed discussing. She wasn't sure how to answer. He apparently noticed her hesitation. He quickly added.

"Because I have since I can remember. There was a two year period where all l wanted to be was 18." Chuckling nervously after.

_Bless him. _

"Really? I can't imagine you as anything else."

"Oi give me a chance here I'm not completely one-dimensional!"

"That's not at all what I meant. All my favorite people in the world are cops of some sort." Alexus' mind went back to her team. She had some phone calls to make when she got back to her place.

Lestrade pulled up to her place and stopped the car.

"I know it's not exactly home, and I'm not your team. If you ever need anything you can tell me. I mean it."

"Thank you." Alexus' only reply before exiting the car and walking to her door. She waved one final goodbye to her favorite Detective Inspector.

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Alexus put water on the stove. She had already tried the whole English tea thing but decided it wasn't her thing. She had discovered long ago, the best thing in the world for just about anything was a steaming cup of hot coco with whipped cream and marshmallows. After everything was ready she picked up her phone and played phone roulette.

"Hey! How's my girl?" Of course she would get Derek.

"Oh you know just the normal, corpses, blood, murder, sociopath and hostile coworker. You?"

"I thought you didn't start till tomorrow."

"Yeah my partner called and asked if I wanted to start early he'd just gotten called in for a case. It went pretty well." Alexus let it end there.

"You can't hide things from me baby girl. What's wrong?"

"It's just different. It seems they're not close like us. They just all seem to wander and do their own thing. It's strange. Then there's this guy who calls himself a _consulting detective._ He actually seems like fun."

"And by fun you mean?"

"Not like that. He just seems really uptight and callous. I definitely am looking forward to messing with him."

"Be careful sweetheart don't be cruel." Morgan couldn't help the smirk he wore. He knew his girl, she could be quite the heartbreaker.

"Yeah, yeah. Trust me he's in no danger of heartbreak. He'd first have to acknowledge someone other than himself. Lord knows that'll never happen."

"So I'm bored and now more than a little interested. Tell me about it."

"What?"

"Everything. Start with this guy. Talk me to sleep baby."

"Alright. Well he's your typical smartass. He tried to profile me. He said I going off my age I was inexperienced and therefore less than incompetent for my position. He then insulted my clothes saying they meant I didn't take my job seriously. Luckily I'm good enough to feel I don't have to prove it so I ignored him for the time being. It took everything in me not to profile him right then and there. It was really amusing though, seeing his face when I completely disregarded him. I guess he's used to get a reaction. Probably why he does it. Wait I almost started a profile."

"You know what I said earlier, about taking it easy one him?"

"Yes?"

"Give 'em hell baby girl!"

Alexus couldn't help but laugh. God she loved this man.

"Will do. So how are my favorite profilers?"

"They're good. It's weird not having you though. Hotch called on you several times yesterday. He even told Reid to go to the crime scene with you. It was awkward. He misses you. We all do. Spence refused to let anyone in your room. He's decided it stays exactly the same for when you come back. He's pretty down about the whole thing."

"So am I, trust me. You have no idea how empty this place feels. I'm going to see if anyone needs a roommate. Or whatever it is they call it here. It's so quiet I'm pretty sure I'm going to go crazy. Besides rent is insanely high here it's just not practical to live one my own."

"The rent is too damn high!" Derek declared, doing his best Jimmy McMillan impression.

The two friends burst into laughter.

"Derek Morgan I am going to miss having you here like it's nobody's business!"

"I already miss you like it's no one's business baby girl."

Just then there was a knock on Alexus' door.

"Hey Derek there's someone at my door. I just texted you a number to call if you hear trouble ok?"

"Are you okay?"

"Yeah it's just nobody but my partner Lestrade knows where I live. Did you get the number?"

"Got it ready."

"Alright I'm gonna answer it."

Alexus went to the door, revolver in tucked away on her person.

"Sherlock?"

"Obviously!" Sherlock replied dryly. Walking in completely uninvited.

Sherlock pranced around the house looking for anything clues to help in his quest. While Alexus couldn't seem to fully comprehend what had just happened.

"It's very rude to remain on the phone when receiving company." He reprimanded.

That was all it took for Alexus to snap out of her momentary shock.

"Good thing I'm not receiving company tonight." She said grabbing him by the arm and dragging him towards the door. Where she quickly pushed him out, shut and locked it.

"That was weird…" She finally said.

"Who was it?" Derek asked expectantly.

"Oh shut up you heard the whole thing. I put you on speaker just in case."

"How?"

"No idea."

"What?"

"I got nothing."

"Why?"

"Drawing blanks here." She answered, pondering the same questions. "Anyways. Is Garcia there?"

"Do you think I could keep the fact I'm on the phone with you from her?"

"Spence?"

"They went to seem some local production."

"What language?" Knowing Dr. Spencer Reid was involved, said production would probably be in a foreign language.

"Russian. I'll never understand why you went with him to that stuff."

"He didn't like to go alone. Once I started going he went more often. He deserves to enjoy himself."

"Uhuh…right. And that's the _only_ reason right?" Morgan asked smiling.

"Listen here seniorita! We have flushed that topic out."

"Says you."

Alexus could almost picture him sticking out his tongue at this point. She couldn't help but grin at that. She must have looked ridiculous sitting on her kitchen counter drinking hot coco and smiling all by herself. The thought made her smile grow wider. She looked over to her left and noticed a red light flashing on her mantle place. She wouldn't have seen it from any other angle. _Oh that mother of a camel!_

"Listen babe, I gotta go and take care of some stuff." _Or shank someone. _It could go either way.

"Alright. You all good?" He asked concern leaking into his voice.

"As John Wayne in a western."

Morgan laughed at that.

"Goodnight then baby girl!"

"Goodnight. Kisses to all my lovelies. Tell Hotch hi and I'll call him soon."

"Will do. Peace"

"Peace."

With that she ended the call, grabbed the bug from the mantel piece and stalked to her door. Opening her door she found none other than Sherlock on the curb with headphones. Alexus walked over ripped them out of his ears and dragged him into her apartment.

"Rule #1. Don't mess with me when I'm happy."

Sherlock looked at confusedly. Not understanding her meaning.

"I won't always be able to call home and when I can, I_ don't_ want to be interrupted for petty games!" She said losing her will to be angry but having no intention of letting him know that.

"The next words out your mouth better be an apology followed impossibly quickly with an explanation."

Sherlock was not one to back down from confrontation, but the on her eyes told him she wasn't fooling around. So he tried his very best to find a happy medium. Okay maybe happy was stretching it. A _satisfactory_ medium.

"I want-"

At which point he was interrupted. _Rude!_

"Apology first."

"I apologize if I scared you." He said hoping that would suffice." By the glare he was receiving he imagined it wasn't. "And for unwittingly interrupting your phone call."

She had better be happy with that because there was no way in hell he was going to give her anything else.

"Apology accepted. It needs work, but it'll have to do for now."

Sherlock was beyond himself. This woman is _impossible_!

"Now for that explanation."

"I wanted to ask you if there was anything I could do to help you settle in to London. I know this place better than anyone."

"And where does the bugging my apartment factor in to '_helping me settle in_'?"

"I…" Sherlock faded out not knowing how to get out of that one. "How did you find it anyway?" genuinely curious. He made sure and put it somewhere she would never see it.

Alexus was not about to admit it was completely luck. She didn't want to risk him trying it again.

"Come on sweet cheeks. What's a girl without her secrets?" She said leaning into his personal space. Completely aware of the discomfort it caused and loving the blush that came with it. "I'll tell you. _Boring._"

Sherlock grunted. This was not at all going how he imagined.

"So now that you're here let me be clear on one thing. Bugging my apartment, never going to happen again. Kapeesh?" She said, for it was in no way a question. "If you want to know anything about me you can ask me or observe it. Bugging is cheating. Cheating means you're incapable. Are you incapable Mr. Holmes?"

Sherlock did not like her implication at all. He was completely capable. He wouldn't, for one minute, have her believing otherwise. So he did the only he could think to do.

"You will find there is _nothing_ I am not capable of." His answer assertive and much too sure of itself.

"I'm glad we're clear. Now the sirens who inhabit my bed are singing a song that is much too beautiful for me to ignore. Are you planning to stay the night or will you be showing yourself out?"

Sherlock considered taking her up on her invitation, if only to snoop. John would tell him to leave. No question. Then again, when did he ever listen to John? He looked up and saw a question in her eyes. He saw a lot more to her question than he first thought. Maybe John was right.

"I can show myself out." Sherlock turned to leave hoping he had made the right choice. Before he got far he felt her pull him back. She gave him a hug, kissed her hand and hit his forehead with the same hand. He had no idea what that meant, but it made him want to smile all the same. Luckily he still maintained some of his senses, with which, he held it back. Just barely.

"Goodnight Mr. Holmes." Before he could respond she was gone.

_Oh the game is, most definitely, on!_

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_**Thanks to everyone who's taken an interest in this story. I was skimming through some of the Sherlock fanfics and noticed that Sherlock almost always gets the girl and it was almost always much too easy. And I love Lestrade and am lost as to why he never gets anyone. I am really trying to stay true to the characters, I would really like some feedback on that.**_

_**Last thing. Her old team from home are the characters from Criminal Minds. If you haven't seen it, you should! You'll hear more about them and their characters as well. Her backstory, both with them and her childhood and what not will develop later. Hopefully in the next chapter. Please review!**_

_**Thanks again!**_


	4. Chapter 4

"_Now Pixie. Do you remember what daddy told you?" Alexus' father looked down at her smiling. _

"_Six impossible things before breakfast!" She beamed. _

"_And what did my little girl discover today?"_

"_You first!" she giggled._

"_How bout, I do one and you do one?"_

"_Deal." _

"_Whispering walls. That tell all your secrets."_

"_Judgmental petunias. Chatty ones." She smiled and crinkled her nose in mock disgust._

"_Tattling turtles."_

"_Underwater trains. That can take you from here to China in 30 minutes flat." _

"_Hands for feet. Like monkeys, but better!"_

_Alexus looked up and saw their destination not too far off. _

"_Race you!" She squealed, already having took off towards the stables laughing with excitement, the game momentarily forgotten. She loved riding her horse 'Coco'! She loved it because her daddy taught her. Most little girls learned to braid hair or ride pretty, pink, bikes. Not Alexus, she learned to ride horses. _

_Alexus rode for miles with her daddy. They didn't stop till they reached their special spot. It was a beautiful pond shaded by a giant oak tree. Her and her daddy came here every Sunday._

_The pair loved laying in the grass that surrounded their haven. They would stay there holding hands and breathing in the beauty around them. _

_Alexus looked on as her and her father whispered between themselves, trying not to scare away the animals. She then saw her father turning to smile at her. It was moments like these when she felt safe, loved and protected. Suddenly her father's smile disappeared as he seemed to be looking past her. That's when she heard the voices._

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Alexus woke with a start. It had been a long time since she last dreamed of her father. An all too familiar ache manifested itself in the pit of her stomach. That part of her was lost, but never, ever forgotten. She drew in a calming breath and hopped in the shower.

Today was going to be better. Alexus could feel it in her bones. The FBI agent smiled to herself thinking of the strange characters she now had as colleagues. Life would definitely never grow dull. Alexus sighed when she heard a knock at her door. _Not again! _She thought.

"Mr. Homes!" She groaned throwing the door open only to see a, very confused, detective inspector.

"Oh my soul Greg! I'm so sorry. I thought it was... someone else…" Alexus stumbled, not exactly sure how he would react to a, very late night visit from a certain consulting detective.

"I'm sorry for the intrusion. I just wanted to drop by in case you needed a ride again."

_God this man is something else!_

"Oh yes. Of course…thank you! I'll be ready in a few minutes." She said as she rushed to her room to change.

Greg looked around at all the pictures and at all the unpacked boxes. _ Maybe I could offer to help her unpack. _He thought grinning. Though it was quickly replaced with a scowl. _This has to stop!_ He was going out of his way to help and as much as he would like to believe he was just being a good partner, he knew otherwise. The truth was, he liked the idea of spending time with her outside of work. It made him feel like they were more than coworkers.

Greg didn't have many friends and he imagined she could be a great one. He'd already decided that anything more would be completely out of order and therefore wouldn't pursue it further. There was, however, no reason they couldn't be friends outside of work. Just then, the reason for his musing came bursting out her bedroom door looking refreshed and ready. _Might as well add 'low maintenance' to her list of qualities._ Greg thought leading the way to his car.

On the ride, the pair discussed the past cases they'd solved and people they'd worked with. Alexus shared with him her need for a roommate and her reluctance to board with someone she didn't know. He racked his brain trying to think of someone he knew who had a vacancy. Coming up blank he merely nodded his understanding.

Before they knew it they were heading into the station.

"Over here is your desk. Though I imagine you won't be spending much time in it." He said gesturing to an empty desk.

"What, she doesn't get a bloody office?" Sally muttered entering the room, the comment was clearly meant to create tension. Unfortunately being the youngest in all her classes at the academy, Alexus was well used to unmerited hostility.

"Office? Ha! I was promised the conference room." She replied trying her hardest to win the approval of her new teammate. She might not like detective Donovan but she did have to work with her… diplomacy, she decided was the best option.

While Sally was deciding whether or not to accept the comment as a joke or fire back another insult, Sherlock came trotting into the room.

Yes. Trotting was definitely the word Alexus would use for what he was doing.

"Lestrade I need to see the body and the new pathologist won't let me. I am in need of your assistance." He stated, irritation plainly displayed on his face.

"I'll call the hospital and tell them you're allowed."

Sherlock started to turn when he saw John giving him the "_you're being rude" _look. Turning towards Lestrade he managed a thank you. John looked satisfied so Sherlock once again span around to leave when he stopped and looked at Alexus with one eyebrow raised.

"Well?"

"Well?" She answered having an idea of what he was hinting at but having no intention of making it easy for him. She looked at John who, once again, looked confused.

"Aren't you coming?"

Alexus fought the need to smile at the clearly, unexpected invitation. Going by the surprised faces in the room, She guessed it wasn't the norm for him to share.

"I don't know. Lestrade, are we going?" She called to the DI.

Sherlock looked miffed she would include Lestrade in his personal invitation.

"You go on ahead I have some things I have to clear up here I'll meet up with you later."

Alexus turned around, surprised he had abandoned her. Then she noticed the look on his face. Of course, good ole Lestrade, trying to keep peace. He gave her an apologetic look to which she returned one of understanding.

The consulting detective looked on at the pair. They appeared to be having an entire conversation with their eyes. He didn't like that _at all._

"Come along then Ms. King." Sherlock prompted accompanied by a wave of the arm, pointing her in the right direction.

John was lost in his thoughts the entire journey to the hospital. Sherlock's behavior was completely out of character. He had never seen him invite anyone to tag along with them. He could tell that Alexus was different. She was intelligent, that much was clear. Maybe it was the fact that she didn't seem overly impressed by his deductions as everyone else seemed to be. Regardless John liked her. He was sure her presence would soothe his temper somewhat.

"John?" They were staring at him like he was crazy. Had they been talking to him?

Just then Molly came around the corner running straight into John. The collision barely had an impact on John but it sent Molly tumbling to the floor.

"Bloody hell! I'm so sorry Molly." John apologized enthusiastically.

"Oh no it was completely my fault. I wasn't looking where I was going." Molly seemed to stop short noticing Sherlock had disappeared.

"Well we should probably follow them before Sherlock gets himself into trouble again." John sighed walking towards.

Meanwhile in the mortuary Sherlock and Alexus had begun an interesting conversation.

"Four years." Sherlock was trying to figure how many years Alexus had been working homicides.

"Nope" She answered popping the "p" Smiling. This was really starting to get to him. His facial expression reminded her of Spence's when he knew he was missing something.

It was at that moment Molly walked in with John. The pathologist immediately saw Alexus causing her to stop in her tracks and stare. Who was this woman and how did she know Sherlock? Looking over at her she noticed how pretty she was. _Of course she's gorgeous!_ Molly hated her crush on Sherlock. It made her weak, paranoid and jealous. Sherlock didn't like women…or men. He was completely indifferent. Relationships weren't _his area._ She still couldn't help but noticed his eyes wandering in the woman's direction.

"Molly, when you're done staring at Ms. King we'd like to see the body." Sherlock sighed with a tone that scream _bored._

"Hi, I'm Alexus King. I'm working with Lestrade over at the Yard." Alexus said giving her a pleasant smile.

"You work with Lestrade?" She asked. Sighing with relief. At least now she knew she wasn't a friend of Sherlock's. She was here for the case. Sherlock hated people from the Yard, not to mention _Americans, _no doubt he wasn't happy with her being here. Molly smiled to herself. _Good!_

"Yes. I just started yesterday actually. Greg's told me a lot about you." Again a smile appeared making Molly shift embarassed of her ill feelings for the woman who clearly meant no harm.

"Greg?" Sherlock said. Surprised she was on a first name basis with the DI.

"That's his name Sherlock!" John proclaimed in exasperation that he, _once again_, had to remind Sherlock of Lestrade's first name.

"I am aware John. I am just curious as to why a new coworker would refer to her fellow officer by his first name."

"I'm sorry, you say you know his first name?!" John asked completely missing Sherlock's implication of impropriety.

Molly looked on, not at all happy about the indignation in Sherlock's voice.

"Whoa there fluffy. No need to get your panties in a bunch." Alexus said hold up her hands in mock surrender.

Sherlock looked quite put out.

"I am not, in any way, _fluffy!_" Sherlock said defensively. Almost spitting out the last word.

Alexus couldn't help but giggle at his childish tone with an equally childish pout. Looking over at John she saw he'd seen it too. If his stifled chuckle was any indication, he found it amusing as well.

"So Molly, darling, what do you have for us?"

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Sorry about the cut off but I wanted to get something out there today. Hopefully I'll wrap up this case tomorrow! Fingers crossed. Thanks for reading!


	5. Chapter 5

"She was poisoned. High levels of arsenic were in her blood." Molly told them wheeling the body over.

Alexus looked at Sherlock baffled. Sherlock, to her relief, looked just as confused.

"Her skull was beaten in, blood was splattered everywhere. It's highly unlikely the crime scene would be so bloody if she was dead at the time she was beaten. And why would someone bother to bash in her skull if she was already dead?" Sherlock said at the speed of light.

"Molly, is there a way you can tell if she died before she was assaulted?" Alexus asked.

"Not any that I know of but I can try to see if I can find one." Molly answered looking to Sherlock for some kind of approval. Nothing.

Alexus gave Molly an appreciative smile. She could easily see the infatuation Molly had with the consulting detective. For once Sherlock was oblivious.

"Sherlock offered his arm to Alexus. A move that made Alexus instantly suspicious. From what she had learned of Sherlock, this was not typical behavior. _What is this man playing at? _Whatever it was she wasn't going to let him know she was onto him. Before she could link arms her phone rang.

"King" Alexus answered. "Ok we'll be there in a bit." Putting her phone back in her pocket she looked over to the boys. "They found her family and are going to start questioning them."

"This is starting to get interesting." Sherlock said a hint of a smile showing.

John had been watching things unfold between the two detectives. At first he thought Sherlock was just in a good mood. As the day progressed, he started to wonder if this was just a game to him. The more the detective made an effort to be kind, the more suspicious John became of his motives. There was no way Sherlock was as fond of this girl as he was making out to be. He prayed to god his friend wasn't trying to seduce this poor girl to get something from her. John had known Sherlock enough to know the man could be a perfect gentleman if he thought it would help him in some way. Poor Molly had been the target of his manipulation for as long as he'd known him. Alexus didn't seem the kind to be so easily charmed. Maybe she'd come out of it better than Molly had.

The trio arrived at the Yard in less than 10 minutes.

"Alexus what did you find at the morgue?" Lestrade asked after walking into his office.

"Well not so great news for us…"

"Are you insane? This is brilliant! Something different for once." Sherlock interrupted.

Lestrade didn't like the sound of this. This was Sherlock's _I'm going to figure this one out on my own cause you're all ignorant sods _look. Yes Sherlock had one of those.

"There was a lethal amount of arsenic in her system."

"She was poisoned?

"It would appear that way. The problem being, if we can't determine exactly how she died, we can't pin the murder on anyone. If there was two different people involved they can just say the other was responsible for her _death_. Molly is working to find COD."

Lestrade looked agitated. It could never just be a straight forward murder, there was always a twist. There was no way Sherlock would let this one go now and Greg was losing his patience with the man who insisted on keeping Alexus to himself.

"Well we've got Sam talking to the kids but I doubt we'll get anything from them, I was going to start with the parents if that's ok." Sally had joined them and was catching Lestrade up.

"Yeah, go ahead thank you Sally. King let's head back to the crime scene and see what we can find while it's still light out." Lestrade suggested.

"Alright toots let's go."

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Alexus couldn't help but notice the tense silence that was beginning to develop on the car ride over. Trying desperately to figure out what had caused it, her mind rewound everything that had happened since yesterday. Nothing.

"Is everything ok?" Startled the DI looked up at her. He had been so deep into thought he completely forgot about Alexus.

"Oh yes, of course. There's just a lot of things that aren't adding up." He decided to go for a half truth.

Alexus immediately noticed the almost lie. He was holding something back. He had made it seem like he was thinking of the case but they both knew otherwise. She decided to push a little less directly.

"Ok. But I've found saying my observations out loud helps the thought process. Plus it always helps to collaborate." She said, conveying that she too was talking about more than just the case.

"I'm up for collaboration, just need to figure out what I'm thinking first." He said with an almost smile.

Greg stepped out of the car and jogged around to open Alexus' door. She gave a smile. It was something Spencer would do whenever they were in the same car and she loved the chivalry of it. Alexis knew some women took offense to behavior like this. Claiming it made them feel like men thought they were inferior and incapable. This was not the case with Alexus. She was just as secure in her independence as she was in her femininity.

Lestrade was relieved to know his new partner was ok with him opening the door. He remembered the first time he had done the same for Sally, she had nearly blown a gasket. She told him she was perfectly capable of opening her own doors and didn't need a man to patronize her. He was glad to see Alexus was not offended by the gesture, he had always been one to believe in gentlemanly behavior.

"Wait do you feel that?" Alexus asked stopping to look around.

"No what is it?"

"I swear I felt someone watching us…" No she knew someone was watching she just didn't know who.

Sherlock watched in anticipation as she tensed looking around suspiciously. He knew she hadn't seen him but the way she was scanning the area he knew she suspected something. He'd just pop in on them in a few minutes. Lestrade had snatched her away before he had the chance to invite her along to track down the owner of the house next door. He had deduced that it was unoccupied and started his search for the owner last night. He found him this morning as was posing as a married man who was looking for a fixer-upper he and his wife could make their own. His intention was take Alexus with him posing as his wife.

Sherlock smiled. He could just imagine how uncomfortable it would make the former agent. He always slightly enjoyed John's discomfort on cases, especially when they posed to be a couple. Which happened a lot more than you'd think. Yes, this would be most fun. Sherlock practically skipped with excitement into the house.

Alexus on the other hand had spotted Sherlock in the bushes and decided to surprise him, she waited by the rail. Hearing him come in she had to time it perfectly. She balanced herself best she could…maybe this is a bad idea…She smile and pushed herself off.

"Catch!" she yelled once Sherlock was in sight. She flew into his, utterly shocked and unprepared, arms and sent them both hurling onto the ground. Her body spread ungracefully across his.

Sherlock was positive he'd never been so surprised in his life. _Bloody hell!_ His mind screamed at him to get up but before he could make a move to do so, he made the mistake of looking up. There she was smiling with her perfect American teeth and absurdly, unforgivably, mesmerizing eyes. He couldn't look away. _Wait, why couldn't he look away? _Sherlock's mind was trying desperately to break through to his senses but for once he was lost. He was starting to detest that smile.

"Hello handsome! Fancy meeting you here." She greeted bopping her index finger on the tip of his nose.

That did it.

"Is it common in America for women to throw themselves at men they've little to no acquaintance?" He asked arching an eyebrow.

"Oh Mr. Holmes you should know by now, I'm anything but common."


	6. Chapter 6

Lestrade walked in on the pair in a very compromising position. The DI had to do a double take and he still couldn't figure it out. All he knew was there was a loud thud and now Alexus was splayed out on Sherlock. What had genius done now?

"Christ Sherlock! Now what are you up to?" Greg said with an exasperated sigh.

Hearing Lestrade's voice he quickly scrambled to his feet, shoving Alexus off of him and onto the floor. Where she landed in a heap with a loud grunt.

"Charming…" She mumbled more to herself than anyone else.

Sherlock looked down at her with a barely-there smirk. Then he remembered the detective inspector's question. What had _he_ done? Why on earth was everything his fault? Sherlock was about to say exactly that when he heard a voice that was, very quickly, starting to annoy him.

"Greg would you be a dear and help me up?" Alexus asked reaching out her hand in a very delicate and ladylike manner. Sherlock rolled his eyes at Lestrade's much too delighted face. Classic hero complex. Though Lestrade failed to realize, Alexus was anything but a damsel in distress.

"Miss King I have an appointment with the owner of the house in which the victim was killed. I need a wife for the interview." Sherlock waited for her discomfort to broadcast itself.

"Splendid! I'll call Sally. I have some papers I have to go over and I'll be needing Greg's help with some of them." Alexus then turned her attention onto Lestrade. "You wouldn't mind helping me would you? Some of it involves some legal aspects that I'm not familiar with here."

Greg chuckled. Alexus really had a way of dealing with the genius. He seemed repulsed that she would even suggest such a thing. His partner, it seemed, wasn't about to let Sherlock have his way.

Sherlock on the other hand was far from amused. This woman was starting to seriously get on his nerves. To even think he'd associate himself with the likes of Sally Donovan. The mere idea made him cringe inwardly. How was he supposed to charm her if she wouldn't give him the time of day? This might be more difficult than he'd originally thought.

"George can help you after _we_ meet the home owner."

"Actually, I can't help later. I have a meeting with Jeanette and our lawyers in a few hours that I can't miss. This is the only time I have." Greg answered completely ignoring Sherlock's probe.

Sherlock huffed.

"Fine I'll help you with the paper work after." Sherlock couldn't believe this. He'd gone from trying to make her uncomfortable to offering to help with paperwork, _dull._ Where was the awkward squirming? The fidgeting fingers? The shifty eyes? He was getting absolutely no reward for this. _Just wait till we get there and I turn on the charm._

Sherlock wasn't the only one deep in thought. Lestrade's mind was also racing. _What is Sherlock playing at? _None of this made sense. Sherlock was being nice. Something he simply wasn't. Why was he trying to worm his way between him and Alexus? Lestrade was starting to worry. He was always suspicious of Sherlock, but now he was concerned for Alexus. If Sherlock was planning something he would do everything he could to stop it.

"Greg and I planned to do this and we will. If you want to get a wife for the interview get someone else. Got it?" It really wasn't a question and which was a good thing, cause Sherlock didn't really have an answer. Nobody ever denied him anything. Even John gave in to his every whim.

"King, it's okay. I don't mind go ahead with Sherlock." Greg tried to intervene. Alexus wasn't budging.

Alexus was getting very frustrated very fast. Does this man _always_ get what he wants? She was torn. On one hand she could stop putting up a fight and just go with it this once but that would surely get him thinking he was boss. On the other hand, she could say no and make his find another option…but Greg's eyes were begging her to concede.

"I'll go with you" She was planning to leave it there and join him. Then she saw him smirk. _Nope!_ "If you reschedule for tomorrow." She grabbed Lestrade's hand and strode up the stairs, a clear indication the conversation was over.

Once upstairs Alexus turned to Lestrade. Studying his nervous behavior. Maybe she should have just given in, it seemed to be stressing her partner out.

"King come look over here." Lestrade's voice cut through her thoughts.

"What is it?" Alexus asked looking in the direction his hand was. Then she saw it. There in the crack of the floorboard was a small opening. Tiny, unnoticeable to someone who wasn't looking for it. She smiled up at her partner.

"Ok hot stuff open 'er up!" She encouraged.

Greg's face lit up, like a kid at Christmas. He looked so excited Alexus couldn't help but laugh. She started to wonder how long it had been since he actually got to investigate something interesting without _his highness_ interrupting.

Greg concentrated on looking for the give to open it up. Finding a slight indent he pushed it open to reveal a briefcase. Lestrade handed off the case to Alexus who then opened it to find pictures. Lots of pictures. All of three different people. On them were written notes and schedules. Someone was following these people. Targeting them for something or another.

"We need to find these people." Alexus said an element of trepidation in her voice. This was getting more and more complicated. She didn't like the idea of three people going about their lives completely unaware of the danger they were in.

"I'll call Sally and let her know what we've got. You go with Sherlock and I'll take the pictures down to the station and get them run through our facial recognition software." Greg said jogging over to the car. Alexus hopped in not at all like the orders just given. She needed to get her papers filled out before she'd be allowed to carry a gun. She didn't have time to deal with Sherlock Holmes.

"Listen Alexus, I know you didn't want to work with Sherlock today but I need to keep him involved. He does stupid things when he isn't working. He needs the work." Lestrade tried to get her to understand without giving away too much about Sherlock.

Alexus eyed Lestrade. He seemed genuinely concerned for the obnoxious detective. She decided to trust him. Even if she didn't understand it herself. Greg was asking her to do something and she found it terribly difficult to say no to the endearing detective inspector.

"Alright Greg, I'll do it." She smiled gently just to make sure he knew she wasn't upset.

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Thanks guys for reading! Please review. I'm trying really hard to update quickly, it's just that sometimes this whole _life _thing gets in the way. The nerve!


	7. Chapter 7

Alexus exited the taxi and walked up to 221 B Baker Street. She knocked on the door. John opened the door clearly surprised that she was there.

"Hello Alexus. Didn't expect to see you here. What can I do for you?" Alexus smiled.

"Yes actually, I was looking for Sherlock. Greg gave me the address." She remembered then, how uncomfortable it had made her last night when she had found out Sherlock knew where she lived unbeknownst to her.

"Oh right of course come on in." John still looked a little uncomfortable.

"It's right upstairs. I was just headed out. I can stay if you like?" He clearly didn't want to.

"Really John. It's fine. I'm sure I'll survive." The doctor looked a little doubtful.

"Well he's not actually doing anything right now so he shouldn't be too much trouble. If he complains about being bored…run." Alexus couldn't help but chuckle. That is, until she saw how serious John was.

"You have my word John, it'll be okay." She put in as much assuredness as she could into that last statement. It worked, John was on his way out with a wave of his hand. _Alright Mr. Holmes let's see what you're up to._

Alexus opened the door to find Sherlock fighting a very colorfully dressed Arab wielding a sword. _Is this what John meant we he by 'not doing anything'?_ John must've been clueless. Sherlock was using some sort of mixed martial arts where she couldn't tell at all what the Arab was using. She was pretty sure Sherlock had noticed her entrance. But made no indication as such. Alexus found a frying pan over by the window sill. She meandered on over. After grabbing it, she made her way towards the coffee table nonchalantly. Once the Arab was close enough to the table she casually kicked it forward, right under his knees causing him to fall on his back just long enough for her to hit him over the head with the frying pan, rendering him unconscious.

Sherlock looked up at her exasperated and slightly impressed. He could only imagine the questions whirling around in her ordinary little mind. What he didn't expect was the question she settled on.

"Why was there a frying pan near the window sill?" She asked, eyebrow raised. It seemed a ridiculous question considering what had just happened but he decided to answer her anyways.

"It smelt after an experiment. John suggested putting it by the window so it wouldn't stink up the flat." He said expecting her to ask more. Once again, her question surprised him.

"What are you planning to do with your new friend here? I don't expect you'd want John knowing you were such a terrible host while he was away." Now she looked thoroughly amused. He had completely forgotten about his visitor. _How does she do that?_

"Oh wasn't quite sure. Suggestions?" Sherlock wanted to see how her brain worked.

"Hey toots, I'm not the one with an unconscious dude in my living room. I want no part in this." Alexus held up her hand in mock surrender. Sherlock scoffed at her use of the word 'dude', how _American_.

"You are the one who knocked him out. This is equally your problem."

"Self-defense. This gentleman was your problem before I stepped in here." Sherlock just realized Alexus was standing in _his_ living room. _What is she doing here? _He stared at her trying to figure it out. He finally gave in and just asked.

"Why are you here?"

"Oh I was coming to pick you up. I remember you requesting to accompany me while I speak to the homeowner." Alexus smirked, she knew exactly what she was doing. The FBI agent didn't want, for a second, Sherlock thinking he had won this round…even if he did. Instead she decided to act like _she_ was allowing _him_ to come along.

Sherlock grunted at her insinuation of being in authority but decided to let her have her delusions.

"Well then, what are we waiting for?" He said grabbing his coat and scarf.

"We're not leaving him here." Alexus couldn't believe he'd forgotten again. "You know for a genius you've got a ridiculously bad memory."

The consulting detective looked at his foe and shrugged. He hadn't forgotten, he just decided to leave him there. He told as much to the American.

"What if John comes home and finds him there?"

"Then he'll come home and find him here! He's a soldier he'll know what to do."

"What does that even mean?" She yelled after him as he ran out the door to hail a taxi. By the time she arrived outside there was already a car outside and Sherlock was waiting holding the door open.

"Thanks hun!" Alexus smiled at him. A smile that Sherlock found slightly unnerving. Still it seemed the Arab was at last forgotten and they could move on to more exciting things. Things like making Alexus King squirm.

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"Miss King we must discuss the nature of our relationship." Sherlock declared, once they were both in the cab, an air of professionalism about him she could never dream of pulling off.

"Well Sherlock I'm flattered!" Alexus answered fanning herself with her hand in an exasperated gesture. "Don't you think we might be moving too fast? I am, after all, taken and I couldn't dream of leaving him to take a chance on someone I've just met." She paused for dramatic effect, face scrunched up in concentration, as if considering it. "No Sherlock, I'm sorry but I'm going to have to ask you to halt all romantic intentions towards me." Yet another pause. "I do hope we can be friends." She looked up at him pouting her bottom lip.

Sherlock flushed pink. His words being completely misconstrued. He looked at her again only to be met with a mischievous smile. She knew. Of course she knew, yet being the _insufferable_ human being she was, just couldn't pass up the opportunity to tease him.

"I believe you know very well that's not what I meant. I've told the homeowner I would be bringing my wife, so my wife you will be." She grinned battling the need for a repeat performance. God she missed Spence. He was just like Sherlock at first. Minus the _'being an asshole' _thing.

Sherlock Holmes was quickly starting to tire of Alexus' theatrics. He had been looking forward to tonight to watch her squirm but so far the only one who had been squirming was him. She wasn't anywhere near as smart as him. That much he knew. She might be intelligent but she was no genius. Yet somehow she never seemed to stop surprising him. Him! The great Sherlock Holmes put off kilter by a barely-better-than-normal woman!

Sherlock thought back to what she had said. She told him she was _taken_. What was that supposed to mean? He wasn't an expert but he was pretty sure he saw her flirting with a very flushed detective inspector. Then again, she didn't exactly seem like the shy, reserved type. Maybe she was just obnoxiously friendly to everyone.

Finally the taxi arrived at an old townhouse with two floors and a fairly large garden out back. It was very well looked after. Everything was neat and trimmed to perfection. There was a man, outback working in the garden. He was an older man with a gentle touch. Alexus could see his hands gently caressing a plant as if coaxing life into it. There was so much warmth in the gesture she couldn't help but smile. It reminded her of home. Little Jack to be exact but that was a memory to revel in later. Now, it was time to work. Looking over at Sherlock she smiled and grabbed his hand entwining their fingers. It was then Sherlock looked down at her in question.

"Till death do us part!" She said with a wink. Reminding him of their roles.

Sherlock frowned. Still no squirming? He'd just have to turn it up a notch. He smiled and gave her hand a squeeze. She laughed. For the first time since he met her, he found he didn't actually mind it. In fact, if he was being completely honest, he might even find he enjoyed it.


	8. Chapter 8

**Thanks everyone for reading! It seems like I won't be able to post as regularly as I would like but I am trying my best to stay on top of it. I'm also in the process of writing one other story which is a Doctor WhoxSherlock crossover. You should check it out! ;) Anyways thanks again! Cheers!**

**WARNING: There are some pretty dark themes in this chapter as we dive deeper into Alexus' past. Nothing explicit or bad enough for me to change my rating but I just wanted to warn everyone.**

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Sherlock and Alexus walked hand in hand towards the gate leading out back.

"Hello? We're looking for Mr. Williams." Sherlock walked up to the gate with a quiet confidence. Warm smile on his face. Alexus would never understand how such a cold man could appear so warm and kind.

"I'm Mr. Williams. How can I help you?" The man asked, holding out his hand in greeting.

"My wife and I were interested in the house you have for sale on Aldred St. We spoke earlier on the phone."

"Ahh yes, I remember now. Unfortunately the house is unavailable for viewing right now. But I can show you the property and answer any questions you might have."

"That sounds lovely Mr. Williams. Thank you!" Alexus smiled brightly. She didn't miss the double take he did at hearing her accent. _Might as well get used to it Alexus._

"Please call me Rory." He smiled fondly. "Allison should be inside, I'll have her put on the kettle."

"Thank you for seeing us so quickly. We've just been all over looking for a place we can make our own. It's so hard to find property for sale. Everything is rent or lease." Alexus explained.

"Yes well, we were thinking of doing the same but we just don't have enough energy to keep up the place. It takes a lot you know." By this time they'd reached the house and had been led into the common room. "Allie? We have company."

At this time an elderly woman walked into the room. She wore a warm smile and walked much lighter than was common for a woman her age. "Well you came just in time." She said speaking to the couple. "I've just now put on the kettle. You're going to join us aren't you?"

"I wouldn't dream of turning you down." Alexus responded. The woman named Allie looked at her quizzically after hearing her accent. _Oh here we go…_ Alexus thought to herself.

Sherlock noticed it too. The old couple didn't seem the type of people who would have anything against her nationality. So why the look? While Alexus had been chatting, he'd been observing. Rory Williams was a military man, though he'd never seen battle. His family had a long military history which was probably his reason for joining considering his peaceful demeanor and fear of confrontation. He could find no signs of anything untoward.

Allie was the same, she'd had two children one lost at birth the other was now thirty and didn't visit home. He sensed the reason were purely selfish disregard. Despite her son's lack of love Allie was still attached. There were photos of him hanging on the walls, trophies of his were laying on the shelves. The house reflected her love for her son.

_Sentiment._

"I was just telling William we needed a quiet place, I've loved the busy streets of London but I myself am used to a little more quiet. Your place is not too far from the action but not right in the middle either." Alexus purposefully called him William not knowing exactly how well known he was.

"Yes we both it'd be best for the little one." Sherlock put a hand over Alexus' stomach in an intimate gesture smiling down at her lovingly. After all this work he'd finally gotten some reaction from her. Though it was not the one he'd expected. Instead of flustered she looked wounded, almost in tears.

"_It's what's best for the little one Lexi, don't worry your pretty little head." She heard him whisper into her ear. "It'll only hurt a little bit." Alexus could hear them talking above her as she was slowly succumbing to the anesthetics. The last words she remembered hearing were "Make sure it can't happen again."_ _He was wrong it hurt more than he'd never know. _Alexus couldn't stop the memories from surfacing. She fought the reaction they brought but she didn't think she was winning. She looked at Sherlock willing him to do something.

He knew her head was turned in a way that they couldn't see the reaction, it probably looked like she was embarrassed. But if she turned, even a little they'd be able to see it too. Before he knew it he had turned her head and covered her lips with his. It was supposed to be an innocent peck. Something to explain the shimmering eyes hoping they would mistake them for tears of happiness but once he started, he couldn't seem to stop.

"_Stay quiet and no one will know what a whore you are." His hands and lips were everywhere. His panting the only thing that could be heard. He wouldn't stop. No matter how much she hit him he wouldn't stop. Eventually she stopped fighting. She shut down, just like every other time, she gave up. After he was done, a fourteen year old Alexus lay sobbing in the corner of the, now abandoned, basement. She had to find Mr. Gideon, he would help her. She knew he would. He had to. _

Sherlock was brought back to reality by a fist colliding with his cheek. He sat in shock wondering what he had done that would warrant that. He turned to the surprised expressions of the old couple bid his apologies and ran after a, surprisingly quick Alexus. By the time he reached the street she was sitting on the dirty ground with a blank expression on her face. The tears had not fallen and for that, he was truly grateful. Crying women was _not_ his area.

Alexus warred within herself. It had been so long since she'd last thought of those times. So long since she'd faced those memories that it almost felt like they belonged to someone else. Gideon _had _helped. He'd gotten her out and _him_ locked away. There were things though, not even her mighty Jason Gideon could fix. He'd tried. He'd fought alonside her for years but in the end it was something she had to do on her own. Up until today she'd honestly thought she had won. Alexus was brought out of her thoughts by Sherlock's fidgeting next to her. _Oh god! Sherlock…_ Alexus couldn't help the embarrassment of knowing he'd seen her lose control. Of all people, why'd it have to be him?

Sherlock watched her from a distance. He still had no idea what had provoked her violence but the look on her face made him believe it had more to do with her than him. It still didn't explain why he'd been unable to pull himself away. That was irrelevant so he shoved it away into an unlabeled room in his mind palace. For now, he had an emotionally unstable FBI agent to get home. He sat himself down beside him like he imagined John would do. He noted John usually reached for a hand but considering the cause of this behavior he ruled out physical contact. Just when he thought he could no longer bare the silence her phone went off.

Alexus took it out, looked at it and sighed.

"We should head back I have some paperwork I have to fill out by tomorrow."

The ride back to Alexus' place was silent. There was a palpable tension filling the air, almost suffocating its passengers. Alexus knew she needed to say something, it was _her_ who spazzed out and ruined their interrogation. It was _her_ fault they'd had to leave early without getting the answers they needed. _Her_ lack of control had blown their cover and ended their chance to speak with the couple. Alexus had a feeling the couple, like their victim, had unknowingly seen or heard something that could help the investigation along and _she _had ruined it.

When the cab finally arrived at her apartment Alexus paid the driver and climbed out. Unlocking her door she made to walk in when she noticed Sherlock was following her. "Not tonight Sherlock. Whatever it is, it can wait till tomorrow."

"I assure you, I'm only making good on my agreement." Sherlock responded.

It took Alexus longer than it should have for her to remember what he was talking about. She wanted desperately to be alone, but she really needed to finish this tonight and if she was being completely honest, she knew little to no legal jargon here. Greg had already said he couldn't help and she didn't know anyone else she could ask. With a resigned sigh she opened the door and let him in.

"Listen I really need to take a shower but you can start looking over it without me for a bit, yeah? The papers are in my bag." Alexus pointed in the direction of her discarded messenger bag.

Sherlock had never heard her say his name before and it took him by surprise just how much he liked it. Shaking off his treacherous thoughts he went to get the papers. He was here for a reason and her leaving him alone to take a shower gave him the perfect opportunity to snoop uninterrupted.

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**Hey guys thanks so much for reading. I didn't really get as far as I wanted to with this chapter but it's been so long since I've updated and it seemed like a good stopping point. Taking that into consideration, I've already written passed this point and a good way through to where I initially wanted to finish. So the next chapter will be coming within the next couple days.**


	9. Chapter 9

Sherlock sat on her couch waiting till she got into the shower to begin his snooping.

"Hey, there's tea stuff and all that in one of cupboards in the kitchen. Go ahead and help yourself." Sherlock didn't bother to acknowledge her statement. He didn't make his own tea and he deduced she wasn't a fan either.

As soon as he heard the water start, he was off like a hound dog. He decided to start with the boxes closest to the bedroom. They weren't taped shut so he went along and opened them without any problems. So far, so good. That is until he looked inside. On top of all the goods he found a paper that had been scribbled on. _Mr. Holmes, I wouldn't bother, with this one, it doesn't have anything too interesting._ _Cold! _Sherlock scoffed she was obviously trying to throw him off. He ignored the note and went through the box anyway. There was nothing of significance. He moved on to the next box, again a note but this simply read '_warm' _Sherlock huffed. What was her game now?

The next couple boxes just said '_warmer' _Sherlock continued to disregard the notes and rifle through each box anyway. He came around to one that sat by the window, opened it and read '_HOT' _as his excitement grew, he heard her speak.

"Took you long enough to get to the good stuff. I'm guessing you didn't heed my hints?" Alexus' voice broke through the quiet.

Sherlock ignored her and went to the kitchen to make tea. He briefly wondered how long she'd been watching him. Shuffling through her cupboards he tried to find her _'tea stuff'_ as she had so elegantly put it.

Alexus watched Sherlock making a mess of her kitchen, muttering something about _bloody Americans_ under his breath. The shower had helped or rather, the time had. Alexus felt much more composed now than she had thirty minutes ago. She had refocused and was, once again, ready to face the world.

"Listen Sherlock I'm really sorry and incredibly embarrassed about earlier. It wasn't your fault. That one was all on me." Sherlock opened his mouth to say something. "I know you have questions but this is not something I want to discuss so I'd really appreciate it if you could respect that and keep them to yourself."

Sherlock looked at her and knew this subject had just been shut. He was desperately curious as to what happened but for some reason the look of resignation on her face stopped him. It was like she was expecting him to disregard her request and plow on forward, which is exactly what he had planned on doing. Yet for some reason he wanted to prove he could respect someone enough to stay silent. He wanted her to know he could do that. It bothered Sherlock that he found it important but it couldn't be helped.

Alexus gathered her supplies and began to make her hot coco. Between a hot shower and coco she should be as good as new. She smiled as she remembered the first time Garcia had made it for her. She was dead set against the vile drink. But Penelope being…well Penelope had insisted and made her the best cup she'd ever had.

"When did you stop drinking coffee?" Sherlock's voice broke through her reverie.

"I never really drank coffee. I despise the smell and it actually makes me drowsy…my best friend back home turned me onto hot coco. I never liked that either until she showed me how to make it." Sherlock watched her go about making it very methodically. When she was done she poured two mugs and handed one to him.

"There are two reasons I am declining your offer Miss King. One, I'm English and tend to drink like one. Two, I am an_ adult._"

"You wound me." Alexus replied teasingly. "Seriously though, try it."

"Fine, give it here." Sherlock took a sip. It was surprisingly delicious. His mum used to make him hot coco whenever it was cold out, but it tasted nothing like this. He was going to deny any fondness for the drink but quickly bit his tongue. He knew if he did, she'd more than likely take it from him and he suddenly found himself very attached. "It passes."

"Of course it does. Now give it back, we wouldn't want ruin your reputation by being caught drinking a child's drink." Alexus reached for the mug to which Sherlock held it up out of her reach. "Now if I didn't know any better I'd think it did more than 'pass'. Hmm?" She smiled knowingly.

"Yes fine! It's surprisingly better than any alternative hot drink I've tasted. Congratulations…"

Alexus beamed.

"Paperwork then?"

"Paperwork…"

Sherlock and Alexus worked to get everything done. Sherlock losing his patience on more than one occasion and Alexus doing the same. Alexus remarking on the absurdity of having to fill out a _billion_ forms (at which point Sherlock rolled his eyes at her exaggeration) to carry a weapon yet not having to pass any actually tests to prove you could even handle one. Things were going fantastically as they seemed to have found a balance in which to coexist.

Two hours later Alexus' phone rang, much to Sherlock's chagrin.

"Hey toots I know it's rude but it's Hotch I have to take this. I'll be back." With that Alexus got off the floor and headed into the kitchen. "Hey Hotch!" Alexus' voice faded into the background as Sherlock retreated to his thoughts.

Everything was going perfectly Alexus was starting to trust him and he was learning more about her. He already knew she had some sort of weak spot, if he could get her to confide in him he'd have the perfect weapon to take her down.

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**You didn't think Sherlock was genuine did you? Nope! He's not **_**that **_**easy to crack. Mycroft is one of my favorite characters so I can't wait to introduce him into the story! Soon! Please review it's always nice to get some kind of response. Cheers!**


	10. Chapter 10

Sherlock watched Rose enter the kitchen and swiftly got up and walked over to the box closest to the door. Opening it he looked in and read '_hot hot hot!' _Sherlock was becoming less and less indulgent in her games. She didn't seem to take anything seriously. She smiled far too much for his comfort and laughed far more often than any sane person should.

Sherlock removed the paper and immediately started rummaging through it. Nothing of importance. He found various mugs, shirts, papers, letters, all of which he didn't have the time to analyze. Something near the bottom of the box caught his attention. He picked it out and saw it was a type of scrapbook. It looked homemade and very new. Judging by the condition of the books in her other boxes, he deduced she wasn't one to take extra care of her things. He doubted the book would be in such good shape if she had it for a long period of time.

Opening the book he found pictures ticket stubs, notes, programs, posters, all splattered across the multitude of pages. It was a bit overwhelming to be honest. So many items to catalog. That's when he realized he was missing the chance to listen in on her conversation. Deciding that took priority, he put the book on the floor next to the papers and snuck up to the kitchen entrance. He knew she knew what he was up to with the pictures. _What's the point of hiding it?_

"It's been interesting to say the least. I miss you guys like crazy." The nosy detective was having trouble hearing the other end of the conversation and was very frustrated with the disadvantage. That's when he heard her approaching and scurried over to the paperwork he was supposed to be working on. "Hey darling I'm making dinner. Mexican or Italian?" He looked at her quizzically. "It isn't a trick question. I won't judge you either way."

"I never eat while I'm on a case." He dismissed her with a wave of his hand.

"Dude, you do know I'm Hispanic right? You don't come into my house and leave unfed, that's just how it is. Now pick one." Sherlock marveled at her persistence. Why should it matter? Who was she to order him around? This was unacceptable!

"I will have you know, I don't take orders from anyone. When I say I don't eat, I mean I don't eat. No discussion."

"Mexican it is." She said re-entering the kitchen.

This woman was slowly driving him to madness. Alexus never seemed to take anything he did seriously. She never listened to him and it made him seethe. He saw she hadn't hung up yet and promptly followed her to the swinging door.

"No everything's fine, it's just frustrating."

"How?" Hotch asked tentatively.

"I don't understand why you'd put a group of people that can _barely_ tolerate each other on a team. Maybe I'm just used to it yet but I miss the collaboration…"

"We are pretty lucky that way. Just give it a while, if anyone can bring them together it would be you."

"Really cause if I had to pick, I'd call in Aaron Hotchner." Alexus was smiling now. She had missed her boss. They had always shared a special relationship, mainly because Jack had grown attached to her after Hailey had passed. Little Jack had insisted that 'Auntie Alexus' attend all his games and birthday parties. She had basically become an honorary Hotchner.

"Yes well luckily for Scotland Yard, you don't get to pick." Alexus laughed.

"So toots, how's Jack?" Aaron smiled at that. Alexus seemed to have a way of lightening up the most absurdly uptight human beings and he had been one of them. She got away with calling him 'toots' without any kind of negative feelings from him. He remembered a time Garcia called him honey and he quickly reprimanded her. Yet Alexus could get away with much worse. No one on the team seemed to mind and he was glad for that. He needed someone to keep him from turning to stone. Now she was gone and he felt it. He knew the team felt it too. It dimmed Garcia's cheer which made the team even more subdued. He felt the atmosphere change and it saddened him.

The boss was also concerned as to _why_ she had been removed. There was absolutely no explanation that made any sense at all. He had Garcia hacking into files and records as discreetly as possible trying to find where the order originated from but so far they had found nothing. Aaron didn't like being manipulated and he definitely didn't like having his team torn apart without his say.

"Boss?"

"You know, that title really doesn't hold water anymore." Aaron winced at his own tone.

"You know you'll always be my boss." She said soothingly. "Seriously though Hotch, if you or the team or even little Jack need me, I'll be there. Consequences be damned!" She tried not to give away how much she was hurting but Hotch knew. He always knew.

"How's your house guest?" Hotch was changing the subject to make things easier for both of them.

"_Not_ eaves dropping that's for sure." Alexus said smiling knowing fool well what he was up to. He was possibly the most predictable person she'd ever met. She was starting to enjoy toying with him!

Sherlock heard himself come up in the conversation and perked up just a little. Until he heard Alexus basically confirm she knew exactly what he was up to. Blast! Was he that predictable? The thought was, really, quite ridiculous.

"I should probably get back to him though, he is very high maintenance. If I don't entertain him, all hell could break loose." She said with an eye roll.

"Well goodbye! I'll make sure and have Jack call when I get home…as long as it's not too late."

"Better get home soon then."

"Goodnight"

Alexus turned back to Sherlock.

"Ok Mr. Holmes, you can come out now." She said with a smirk.

Sherlock scrambled to the kitchen with as much dignity as child with his hand stuck in the cookie jar. He was currently hating his lack of self-control. Of course she would know he would listen in. He had let her see his insatiable curiosity. Now she knew his weakness. A weakness that had, on multiple occasions, almost cost him his life.

Alexus smiled at him when he finally emerged from his hiding spot.

"I was thinking you should call John over and invite him for dinner."

"Why would I do that?"

"Because I'm used to cooking for four, and by four I mean ten." Sherlock looked at her confusedly. "I had three roommates and two of them ate like starving gorillas."

"I see, well John doesn't eat too much and I'm not eating at all so I suggest you cook for two."

"I'll just take whatever's left over to Greg. He's a single man he could probably use a home cooked meal, wouldn't you say?" Alexus smirked at his frown. He really was an attention hog. Mention anyone else in his presence and he gets upset. She tried to imagine him as a boyfriend and cringed. Yeah he'd definitely be the jealous type.

"That won't be necessary, I'm sure we'll manage."

"Sure thing fluffy. Now, start chopping those tomatoes over there." Alexus threw him a knife which he gracefully caught, wondering why the action didn't seem at all strange.

"_I'm not fluffy…_" Sherlock mumbled to himself. Making Alexus smile.

An hour later, Sherlock and John sat on Alexus living room floor. Waiting for the enchiladas to finish.

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_Sorry about the late update. Next chapter we'll be out of the apartment and back into the real world. I don't know, maybe she'll meet Mycroft? I'm super excited about that introduction! Thanks for reading I'm trying to write ahead of what I'm updating so hopefully I'll get more consistent. Please review. I like to know where I stand! Cheers!_


	11. Chapter 11

Sherlock on the floor trying to decide whether he should open the book in front of him. Normally he would just dive in straight in but something gave him pause. Before he could make a decision the doorbell sounded and he realized he wasn't in his flat. He heard giggling between John and... Ahh yes, Alexus was doing the washing up with John.

"Sherlock could you get that please?" Alexus' voice could be heard from the kitchen. Sherlock got up and walked to the door. _Who could be coming at this hour?_ He mused. Opening the door he found a very confused looking Lestrade.

"Gabriel, what are you doing here?" Greg just looked at him mouth open.

"Alexus called and said she was making food and to come over so…" Lestrade waited for Sherlock to move out of the doorway so he could enter. Apparently that wasn't happening anytime soon.

"Yes well I seemed to have eaten it all. You may go now."

"Since when do _you _eat?"

"I eat. John makes sure of it."

"John's here?" Sherlock was still in the doorway refusing to move.

"I'll tell Ms. King you dropped in. Goodbye." Lestrade watched, confounded as his friend shut the door in his face. What was _Sherlock_ doing here? Eating no less! The absurdity of it all leaving him flustered.

"Greg! I'm so sorry about that. Come on in!" Alexus stepped to the side of the, now opened, door with an inviting gesture.

"Don't worry about making anything else. Sherlock mentioned you were out…"

"Out of what?"

"Food."

"Me? Out of Food? Never! I'm never out of food. I set some aside for you." She said with a wink. Lestrade smiled making Alexus laugh. She was starting to adore that crooked grin! Greg followed her into the kitchen where she whipped up a plate of food and handed it over to him.

"Where did you get that?" Sherlock's asked looking annoyed. He had eaten until everything was gone. Making himself sick in the process. The man had never been so full in his entire life. Alexus simply chuckled at him.

"Sorry about the lack of furniture but I'm not so set on this place and I don't want to fix everything up until I am. Have you had a chance to check for opening at your building yet?" Greg had completely forgotten about his promise to do so and looked rather guilty for it. In all honesty he wasn't so sure about living so close to his new partner. He was finding it difficult to spend his work day with her and couldn't imagine spending afterwards as well. She was obviously unconcerned about the ordeal which made him doubt his previous theory of their _mutual _attraction. Apparently not.

Lestrade looked over at her only to find Sherlock doing the same. _What was going on with the two of them?_ He never knew Sherlock to be interested in any woman unless he was using them in some way. Greg cared about his consulting detective regardless of his intolerable antics. He tried to believe Sherlock wasn't as hopeless as everyone thought he was. There were times however when the evidence was just too overwhelming. He had a feeling Sherlock manipulating Alexus would be one of them.

"Well thanks for dinner, it was amazing! You'll have to show me how to make those enchiladas." John said, shaking her hand on his way out.

Alexus sent an amused grin. "Anytime Doc." Alexus then turned her attention to Sherlock.

"It seems, Mr. Holmes that our time together has come to an end." She said with a dramatic wave of her hand. She found her antics cut short by a perturbed looking Sherlock.

"I have no intention of leaving just yet." He stated, indifference plastered on his face.

Alexus was getting impatient. She was looking forward to spending some time with Greg. Though she'd never admit it. It was important that partners have a special bond. _That's definitely the only reason. _She thought to herself. Things were getting complicated much too quickly. She was letting herself get swept away by her feelings and right now, her feelings were telling her that Greg seemed like the type of man worth the _complicated._ She needed to back off before things got out of hand. But if something was going to push her away it wouldn't be Sherlock's incessant need to intrude in her privacy. She was going to do it, without his help.

"Really? Because _I _had every intention of kicking _you_ out." Alexus informed him as she nudged him towards the door. Once finally out she shook his hand.

"Mr. Holmes, always a pleasure. You're welcomed anytime. Well, I say welcomed…" she left the sentence hanging letting him come to his own conclusions. Closing the door she turned around to find her partner looking at her with his jaw basically hitting the floor.

"I have overly protective friends that have little understanding of the concept of _boundaries._ It's nothing new for me. Of course they do it out of love and genuine interest in my wellbeing."

"I've known Sherlock for years now and I've never seen anyone handle him like you just did. Not even his brother." Greg was becoming more and more concerned about her special talent. Mycroft had, more than once, called the DI to act as a handler of sort because of his ability to do so…more or less. It had taken Greg years to figure out what little he knew about dealing with Sherlock and all that experience just became irrelevant. Greg worried about Mycroft discovering her abilities. He couldn't imagine what sort of chores he'd have her up to.

John's ability to manage Sherlock stemmed solely off of Sherlock's attachment and bizarre loyalty to the doctor. Even he had trouble with the consulting detective now and then. Greg had seen Alexus maneuver her way around, over, under, and through him to end up getting her way. She never bowed to his wishes and contradicted him every chance she got. It really was quite impressive. He was certain Mycroft would have heard of this from one of his minions by now and it was only a matter of time before he made his move. Lestrade feared what that move would be.

His phone ringing woke him from his thoughts. It was Sally, she could wait. Pressing the ignore button he turned his attention back to his partner.

"It's been a long day. Would you like something to drink?" Alexus asked politely.

"I'm trying to lay off the liquor for now."

"That's very responsible of you. Fortunately for you I don't keep alcohol in my place. Never cared for the stuff. I was talking about something hot. I make a mean hot chocolate." Greg laughed.

"Of course you do." He commented more to himself than anything else. Was nothing about her ordinary?

Alexus walked into the kitchen to ready her drinks. When she noticed her ingredients missing.

"Greg? How does tea sound?"

"Tea's fine." He answered joining her in the kitchen. "What happened to the chocolate?"

"It would seem I'm out of the proper ingredients. Which is odd considering I had a full stock earlier today…"

"Maybe you misplaced it."

"I must have." Though Alexus was positive she knew exactly where it had gone. Alexus went through with making the tea knowing full well she wasn't good at it.

"I'm sorry I'm not very good at this. When I drink tea back home it's usually straight from the ground. I have mint and chamomile plants in my house and use it fresh to make my tea. I plan on getting some here." She tried to explain away, what she was positive was, the dreadful taste.

Greg gave it a try. Definitely not expecting it to taste good. His fears were confirmed when the drink touched his tongue.

"Right as usual. It's vile!"

"Hey! I did my best. Just you wait till I make my kind. You'll never want tea any other way." Alexus gave a huff of disappointment.

"I'm sure you're right." Greg placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. She relaxed at the gesture. He had a way of soothing her that reminded her of Hotch. Her other teammates could do it but Hotch could do it with the smallest gestures or glances. He knew when she needed it and she found comfort in that. The fact that her new partner was proving to have a similar effect scared her.

Greg's phone rang again. In fact, it really hadn't stopped since the first call. It was about time he answered it.

"It's Sally." He gave way as explanation. Alexus nodded. "I have to go apparently there's someone at the station waiting for me."

"Okay. Be safe. Call me if you need anything." Greg gathered his things and headed out the door.

Leaving Alexus to her thoughts. She wasn't surprised Sherlock had taken something from her place. What was surprising was his choice in thievery. Why her hot chocolate? She knew he liked it but why would he take it?

Her pondering was cut short by a knock at her door. _What now?_ She grumbled making her way towards the front door. Swinging it open about to let loose on whoever dare intrude on her quiet time. She found no one at the door. _That's it. I'm going crazy._ Peaking her head around double checking she felt hands grab her and a bag put over her head. _How original…_She surprised even herself when she realized even the voices in her head were sarcastic. What didn't surprise her however, was that she _had_ voices in her head.

As soon as she was placed inside a car the bag was taken in off and the car began to move. Alexus looked around analyzing the situation. Town car, privately owned, impeccably well kept. It was definitely a luxury above your average pay grade. Who would want to take her? She's only been here two days!

Turning around Alexus found a give opening the back seat letting her into the trunk. Her mind started to formulate a plan. When finally the car slowed to a stop she opened and shut the back door hoping whoever was outside would fall for it. She crawled in the trunk closing the entrance from the inside. Waiting for the opportune moment to climb out the already rigged door. She waited patiently for the voices to fade. As soon as they did she quietly climb out of the trunk rigging it to look closed so she wouldn't have to make any noise.

She sighed in relief when she didn't see anyone around. Her relief quickly faded when she realized she was near an abandoned warehouse in the middle of nowhere. _Now what?_

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_There, it's finally up. Told you I hadn't given up on it. Anyways I'm now taking care of my nephews full time so updates will take longer then I'd like. I will try to keep up. I have two other stories I'm currently working on but I'm having fun so hopefully things will start looking up! Anyways you should check out my other fic it's a crossover of DW Roselock all the way! Alright that's it for now. Cheers!_


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Sherlock, Adventure, Romance