23 February 2012

JOHN

John, look, I don't know what's happening, but something's gone wrong with the Boss - I mean, he sn't hurt, he's okay, the duty sergeant saw him walking in, but I don't know what's gone on. It was something to do with a car crash, and someone was hurt, I think, that's all the control could tell me from the radio contact.

He was off seeing a witness, and now I don't know, someething went wrong, and they won't let me see him, or the DC he wa swith, and I don't want you to worry, and I'm trying to find out what's happening, but he's in being interviewed and, well, look, he'll be late home, at the least, and I thought I should warn you, and as soon as I know anything else I'll let you know.

Sally

182 comments:

John H. D. Watson said...

All right. Thank you.

...I suppose it would only complicate things if I came down there?

Sally said...

They won't let me bloody see him, so I don't think it would complicate as much as be pointless. It might be nothing, but the duty sarge says it's two DCIs in there with him and he doesn't know them or we might have someone whod talk to us

John H. D. Watson said...

What the hell happened? I mean... I know you don't know, but. This doesn't sound right.

REReader said...

Oh, boy.

Well, not hurt is good. Not hurt is best.

I totally agree with you, John.

Sally, is this looking to you like...well, like some sort of possible legal trouble?

Sally said...

Yeah, I don't know, I'm trying to get the nick who responded to the call to tell me. I think the boss was trying to talk to witness about a case and something must have happened, then all I know is they needed an ambulance and I think traffic have gone down there so I think it was a car crash or someting. Someone said they heard there was a kid involved, but I don't know, John. The duty on said the Boss walked in here though, so I don't think he's hurt.

John H. D. Watson said...

So he wasn't hurt, but someone else was? They'd better not be blaming him for it.

How long has he been in there with them?

Sally said...

Yeah, I think that's it. Sorry, I'm trying to find out. I think it's DPS in with hism - complaints, basically.

He hasn't been in there long, maybe half an hour? It could take a while, seriously, they'll want to know everything, but that's for him too, he needs to tell them exactly what happened.

I will tell you if I find anything out. SOrry, hopefully it's nothing, but...we won't know til he's out, not really.

mazarin said...

Oh goodness. Glad he's not hurt, but will be waiting to see how things go. Hope you hear from him soon, John. Salluy - thanks for looking out for him, you're fantastic.

REReader said...

What Maz said.

And what John said, too. (Because, ridiculous. Really.)

John H. D. Watson said...

Right, of course. I suppose that kind of thing can't be hurried.

Thank you, Sally, really, and let me know if there's anything I can do? Unlikely, I know, but still. Or if you find out anything else. Or...anything, really.

Anonymous said...

John, could you talk to the boys' mother?

John H. D. Watson said...

I think that would be an overreaction right now.

Sally said...

I will, I'm not leaving until he does.

I got one of the PCs on scene. He says the boss's car is pretty totalled, been hit by another car, then there's a few more he thinks were parked and got caught up in it, but he doesn't know how it all happened. Traffic are doing accident investigation.

He thinks from hearing other people talking there were two casualties. I don't know anything else.

John H. D. Watson said...

That...doesn't sound great. All right.

You're a good friend, Sally, thanks. I suspect he'll insist on riding home, but at least tell him I'd be happy to pick him up, okay?

REReader said...

Whatever else might be needed...well, mightn't be a bad idea for you to be there when Lestrade is done in there, maybe, John? If anyone gives Sally an idea of when they might be done.

Sally said...

I will.

Sorry, I should have got your number off files or something, not done this here. Tell the boys not to worry, yeah?

Sally said...

And try not to worry yourself. which I know is stupid because you can't help it. But the boss just needs to tell them what happened, and I'm sure it'll be sorted out.

John H. D. Watson said...

RR - I'll go if he wants me, of course. Otherwise...I try not to bother him too much at work.

Sally - It's all right. They haven't read this yet anyway, too busy arguing over dinner.

John H. D. Watson said...

the boss just needs to tell them what happened, and I'm sure it'll be sorted out.

I'm sure you're right. And yeah, I'll worry anyway and so will you. It's what we do.

REReader said...

I just thought--this has to be pretty traumatic no matter what the details are. Maybe wait outside? Or...well, you know him best, so I'll just shut up now.

Sally said...

ReReader, they won't know theyre done until they're done. I'll tell the boss what John said then, leave it to him if he wants him down here.

But, well, worst case scenario, he won't be done tonight.

REReader said...

Thank you, Sally.

(And now I'm really worried.)

CzechReader said...

*lots and lots of silent hope in direction of London*

Anonymous said...

And from the North

Anonymous said...

And from the States...

- A from NW

Anon Without A Name said...

Thank you Sally, for the updates (I know, they're for John, but... thanks anyway, it's reassuring).

It sounds like it's sort of standard procedure for him to be interviewed if there's been some kind of incident? So that everyone can get the facts straight ASAP.

I presume it's far too early for him to have a Police Federation rep with him? Or does he already have one?

*resolutely keeps calm and drinks tea*

Small Hobbit said...

*Pours tea and offers biscuits to all*

Sally said...

I'm sure the boss'll appreciated all of you caring so much.

I can't find out much more, I'm afraid it'll be up to him to tell you any more, really. Because I'm on his team they won't let me be involved, obviously, and it's hard to get information out of anyone when it's an investigation like this. everyone's worried about the press thinking we're not doing it right or whatever.

Anon without a name, I don't know if he's got anyone in there with him. But yeah, standard procedure, liek I said to John, best for everyone to just get their stories down while it's fresh in their minds.

REReader said...

If this happened in the US, I'd say send a lawyer. As it is, I have nothing to offer but prayers, good vibes, and support.

Thanks, SH, I'll have some tea.

Sally said...

I think the boss has been in this game long enough to call for a brief if he thought he needed one.

REReader said...

You're right, of course, Sally. And thank you so much for staying around.

CzechReader said...

*Adds alcohol to one of the teapots and goes to stare out of the window whistling innocently*

Thanks for the updates, Sally, much appreciated!

Small Hobbit said...

CR - I hope it wasn't the teapot that already had the alcohol in.

Calliope said...

I'll just be over here hitting reload. *makes more tea* *is awake now*

Anonymous said...

SH - I really don't see the harm...unless we're going to be driving soon.

CR - Which teapot was the safe one again?

Sally - Thank you for keeping us updated like this. If you don't mind, we'd be happy to keep you company while you wait. I hope the DC with Greg is all right...I mean no news is good news when it comes to the Yard grapevine?

*settles in with a cup of tea*

-A from NW

Rider said...

If he didn't have a family to go back to he'd be out on the bike after this. He may well do that anyway. It's one of the best coping methods out there.

(Not that I'm biased or anything)

Anonymous said...

Hope the boys are ok and not too worried about all this.

Thanks for the updates Sally

Not sure the bike would be a good idea to put in his head right now Rider, a worried mind and that kind of power don't always mix well.

Thinking of you all and hoping for happy updates soon

Anony

Rider said...

Anony, I don't need to put it in his head. He's a biker, it's there already.

Sally said...

John, he's just been up here, fetched his bike gear. He had one of the DCIs with him. I told him I'd told you as much as I knew. He didn't say anything about it, just other cases. Just...give him my best, won't you? And a hug?

Anonymous said...

guess so. I'm just a worrier.

Anony

Anonymous said...

Sally - Is it...normal for a DCI to accompany someone after an incident like this? Thank you for keeping us updated and I hope you get some rest yourself. *hugs*

Greg - You know how to find us, but I hope going home to people who love you will ease some of your burdens.

- A from NW

Greg Lestrade said...

John, I'm okay. I mean, I'm not hurt.

I really need to...just get things sorted in my head. I won't be home for a bit. I'm okay though.

Thanks everyone.

John H. D. Watson said...

I will, thanks. I really appreciate this.

John H. D. Watson said...

L - okay. Love you. See you when you get home.

Greg Lestrade said...

love you too. Sorry

John H. D. Watson said...

I know. Nothing to be sorry for, don't worry.

Anonymous said...

Greg - All right. We're glad you're in the A&E or worse. You know where to find us if you need us, but I hope having people who love you to come home to will make us completely unnecessary.

Sally - I hope you get some rest yourself tonight.

~ A from NW

CzechReader said...

SH - I don't know. I added rum into the red and gold one. I think the dark blue one is safe, if we want to call it that, but I don't know what's in the white with green polka dots one.

Let's have a sandwich.

Anony - Rider's right. L is a biker, that comes from heart and is for life.

Sally, thanks for an update again. I hope you took at least a few minutes for yourself; have a tea or coffee if you'd like.

John - keeping my fingers crossed.

All my love,
CR

REReader said...

L, we're here for you when and if you want us. Far more important, John (and Mycroft and Sherlock) are right there for you, when you're ready for them.

Be safe.

Anonymous said...

*You're NOT in the A&E.

Stupid touchscreen phone, stop eating my words!!!

*desk*

Greg Lestrade said...

The boys okay, John? You okay?

John H. D. Watson said...

Yeah. I mean...worried, obviously. And I don't think Sherlock's going to sleep without seeing you, so try not to be too late, okay? But I expect we're doing better than you are.

Small Hobbit said...

CR - the green dotty teapot has whisky in it. What do you want in your sandwich?

John and L - thinking of you.

Greg Lestrade said...

Yeah. Sorry.

You eaten, yeah?

I won't be that late. Then...then you'll all be seeing a lot of me. Been suspended.

John H. D. Watson said...

Eaten yeah, but we saved some for you if you want it.

...What? Why?? If you can say on here.

Rider said...

L don't think of it as suspension, think of it as a chance to get into the running habit!

(not that I can see why someone would run somewhere when they have a perfectly good motorcycle but hey...)

Anonymous said...

Shit, Lestrade, so sorry

REReader said...

*trying not to be furious...yet*

Greg Lestrade said...

Pending investigation. I'm lucky I'm not on bail. Dangerous driving at the moment. It... yeah, well, at the moment.

I mean, I didn't do it, but they have to investigate.

Anon Without A Name said...

Oh... bugger.

I'll refrain from asking if you're OK, because I'm guessing you're not quite sure yourself yet. Is it just a precautionary thing, you know, while they're investigating the incident? Or something more serious? (Um, obviously feel free to ignore those questions).

*thoughts* and *support* and *hugs if want 'em* heading your way.

Anonymous said...

SH, CR - Rum? Whiskey? What's next, tequila? I'll join you on the sandwiches though.

Greg - This is where we shoo you off into John's arms for a long hug. I hope this suspension is just procedure and... Do you know for how long?

~A from NW

John H. D. Watson said...

I know you didn't do it.

Please come home?

REReader said...

You didn't have to say it--we know very well you didn't do it, L.

(I may tease from time to time about your driving, but I know you would never be reckless with anyone else. Ever.)

mazarin221b said...

Damn. And like all good bureocracies with a public image, there's lots of investigating/fingerpointing/blame sharing to do first.

Best of luck, Lestrade. We all believe in you.

Greg Lestrade said...

Yeah, well, my suspect's in hospital. And...his son, he's only little, five or six and

he's critical. really - they say if he makes it through the night, then..

So, I mean, it happened but I don't...I don't believe I was acting dangerously. Not for me to make that decision though, ultimately. An dhtere's nothing I can do now except wait.

I'm coming home.

Anonymous said...

Make it home safe to those who love you.


The worst side of the job I guess? doing what you think is right at the time but then having to justify it later.

Loads of love and thoughts around this place for you

Anony

John H. D. Watson said...

I'm so sorry, love. That's hard no matter what. I hope they'll both be all right.

We can talk about it, or not, whatever you like. I'll... Well, you know me. I'll probably make tea.

REReader said...

Lestrade--If you can help it, don't start second-guessing yourself. You do not have it in you to be careless or reckless with others' lives, and most especially not with the life of a child. And...really, that's all.

Anonymous said...

Oh Greg. I... I can only echo what everyone else has said that we believe you wouldn't drive dangerously, ever. You're not that type of personality.

I hope you let yourself be reminded that John, Sherlock, and Mycroft are there for you. And I hope the little boy pulls through.

I just... Let John be the Internet's proxy hugger, okay?

~A from NW

Small Hobbit said...

I've nothing more to add either, except sending hugs or whatever you'd like to all of you.

Anonymous said...

You all will be in my thoughts

Sally said...

Hey, Boss, we know they'll prove you did everything right. Hope you're back soon.

REReader said...

(I'm also wondering how bruised up "not hurt" is.)

Amen, Sally.

Rider said...

A worse bureaucracy than NSY couldn't stuff this up Lestrade, but waiting is the hard part.

You've got Mycroft home so you won't be moping, you'll be out and about and running after kids and dogs. (Who will have been briefed!)

John H. D. Watson said...

Well, he's back. And...essentially not hurt. Bruised a bit, scratches all over his arms - from the glass I assume, trying to help the boy. Not terribly talkative, but home and in one piece.

Anon Without A Name said...

Thanks for letting us know, John. How're the rest of you doing?

REReader said...

Thank you, John.

I don't know that there's anything we can do to help, but if you think of something...

Piplover said...

Lestrade - I know nothing we say will stop you from second guessing yourself, but remember - we are our own worst critics. Try not to be too hard on yourself, and let John take care of you.

Best wishes to all of you!

Greg Lestrade said...

Thanks Sal, and all of you.

John H. D. Watson said...

Nameless - we're all right, thanks. Sherlock doesn't quite understand everything that's going on and is therefore mostly excited about having him home for a while, especially over the holidays.

CzechReader said...

SH - Surprise me.

But let's hold the tea and go for the alcohol undiluted, just one medicinal shot. AfNW's suggestion about tequila sounds good right now.

L - get some rest. More importantly, get some sleep. Being suspended sucks, but hopefully the investigation will be over soon. Just like Sally said.

As I am one of those naturally touchy people when it comes to somebody I know at least a bit, I would certainly hug both you and John right now. The internet being actually impersonal electrons, John, please one extra hug from me to you via L and to L via you (two silent bear hugs in total).

Please keep us updated.

(Damn, now I really want a cigarette!)

Greg Lestrade said...

Me too, CR.

John H. D. Watson said...

Is there anything I can do? Apart from hugs?

Do you want to talk about it at all?

Greg Lestrade said...

Dunno.

Lift your ban on Mycroft building a time machine in the flat? Could really do with it right now.

John H. D. Watson said...

If you promise not to leap in front of any bullets, I'll consider it.

CzechReader said...

L - the same friend of mine, who told me she never could imagine me as a mother, stopped smoking 8 months earlier than I. When she found out I've quit too, she was all "wow, can you imagine how stupid we were" and so on, health risks and all that stuff. I just wish I could have seen her face when she read my reply of "sorry, I stopped smoking only because they stopped producing my cigarettes the way I liked them, none of the health factors interested me"...

(on the other hand, somebody in our extended family - father of my cousin twice removed - just died today; cancer caused by smoking. Perhaps there is something about quitting...)

Small Hobbit said...

CR - right, large tequilas all round then. Sandwiches will be cheese (because that appears to be all that we've got) and lettuce (which apparently aids sleep).

Greg Lestrade said...

Couldn't promise that.

Feel like there's a pretty big one coming right for me at the moment.

CzechReader said...

SH - let's grill them. Lettuce will wilt a bit but hot melted cheese is hot melted cheese. About the only thing it doesn't make better is ice cream...

John H. D. Watson said...

But you don't really think... I mean, they'll work out what really happened and then it'll be okay, right?

Anonymous said...

L - straight after something like this is always when things look the worst. You would never drive dangerously or risk someones safety and you know it.

Deep breaths and loads of love from John and the boys and it will all look better in the morning

Anony

Greg Lestrade said...

Yeah. Well, got to believe that, haven't I? What I've based my career on, letting the evidence speak for itself.

But there are some witnesses, willing to say whatever it takes to get their own back on the police. We're not exactly popular in the area.

So I'm basing everything on my judgement being right. And if it wasn't...then worst case scenario...is...bad.

REReader said...

No CCTV footage, L?


If needed...perhaps Mrs Holmes has access to some--or some more accurate--surveillance materials?

John H. D. Watson said...

Whatever happens, we'll get through it.

CzechReader said...

L - That's why it's called the worst case scenario :-(

Please, try to get some rest. And I know it's hard but the more you go over and over it in your head, the worse it will seem...

Greg Lestrade said...

RR - not that I know of, on a residential street. If there is, they'll get it.

CR - Yeah. I'll try. Sleep feels a long way off.

John...yeah. Thanks.

Anonymous said...

Greg - John and CR are right. You will get through whatever happens and right now, the best thing for you is sleep.

I'm sure the people investigating your case will take witness bias into account. Like you said, it's out of your hands now. You did your best, and whatever call you made at that time, I have no doubt that it was the right one. You're a good man and a good police officer.

~A from NW

KHolly said...

Well if you want company when you're awake and stewing in the middle of the night all of us on this side of the pond will be awake anyway and happy to distract you if you think it'll help.

REReader said...

Even without CCTV, it's still not just witnesses--there are likely skid marks, and car damage tells a story too. There's hard evidence, and it will show you acted reasonably and correctly.

And seconding Kholly. I might be able to juggle or something...one never knows until one tries.

Greg Lestrade said...

Believe me, RR, I'm fully aware of every way they can collect evidence

CzechReader said...

Dudes and dudettes, let's not dissect this. We, the readers, don't have all the data, can't really do anything about it except offering more moral support, so I suggest we go for more distraction:

Tea and sandwiches and biscuits. Rum and whisky and tequila. So far so good.

How about two funny little badgers? http://brockwatcher.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/4-2778-1992.jpg?w=640

Desert Wanderer said...

Sacre chats, Lestrade. You don't half keep a promise, do you?

Keep your head up and don't go borrowing trouble, if I can plunge headfirst into platitudes. And try a bit of 99 tonight. It might help.

Remember, we all have faith in you, no matter how much or little you have on yourself at the moment. And internet people are known for their discernment. Well, knitting patterns, motorcycle discussions, and innuendo with this bunch. But mostly discernment. :). <3

Small Hobbit said...

DW - I didn't think it was platitudes that you plunged head first into. Have you got a pair of boots that fit yet?

And now you're here have a sandwich and a mug of something.

Anonymous said...

CR - Agreed (and those badgers are adorable! Yes, I am deep in my "all small furry animals are cute" stage, even if said furry animals have sharp teeth). I'm somewhat amused that our definition of comfort food involve four different types of liquids, three of which are not suitable for children...

So Greg, John, any particular animals you like that we can scour the Internet for cute and funny pictures of?

~A from NW

Anon Without A Name said...

Cute badgers, CR :-)

SH - ooh, cheese sandwiches :-)

Lestrade, we all trust your judgement, but I know that doesn't really mean much in the grand scheme of things. But people who know you very well - John, Sally - and people who have the means to do so, like Mrs H, trust your judgement. Completely, and without question.

I know that probably won't help tonight, but maybe it's something to keep in mind over the next few days. If you get chance, in between spending a bit of quality time with John and the boys.

Good luck (all of you) <3

Desert Wanderer said...

Thanks, Sh. No new boots yet, but a nice set of blisters from these.

AfNW, they've got a Sherlock, a Mycroft. And two Degus. Plus Doc Hotson and a silver fox. Their flat might be reaching its cuteness threshold shortly. :)

Greg Lestrade said...

Okay, well, if I ever I needed a smile it's right now. So here, have a mixture of cute fluffy animal and innuendo that's somehow completely family friendly too. And does make me laugh.

http://twitpic.com/8kptsc

And really, thanks to all of you. I am trying to put my faith in the law and...well, everything I've always relied on to tell me the truth of a situation. And trying to keep calm. And John is helping a lot. But yeah, it's very hard not to second guess myself.

CzechReader said...

DW - blisters suck :-/ Hope they don't bother you for long.

But I've always wanted to see what happens when you reach the cuteness threshold :-)

Another one: http://icanhascheezburger.files.wordpress.com/2009/09/funny-pictures-horses-look-for-needle-in-haystack.jpg

John H. D. Watson said...

L - that...is an amazing picture. Took me a minute to even work out what I was looking at.

CzechReader said...

L - where did you find that one? .-D I was looking kind of like this:

http://2pep.com/funny%20pics/funny%20animals%20cat%20dog%20monkey%20pictures/humorous%20hilarious%20funny%20pictures%20of%20animals_Surprised_Look.jpg

Greg Lestrade said...

Now you know the mental age of your boyfriend, that I have that link saved.

Sorry I'm not talking much. My mind's stuck somewhere between trying to be optimistic and absolutely terrified.

With a middle ground of photos like that, obviously.

John H. D. Watson said...

Yeah, well... I have baby sloths, so.

http://www.zooborns.com/zooborns/2012/01/bath-time-for-baby-sloths.html

You don't have to talk, it's okay.

CzechReader said...

L - that's okay.

Doggie innuendo? Right... http://ihasahotdog.files.wordpress.com/2011/03/2130fb98-0278-40a6-91a8-ef5a5a8384de.jpg

Greg Lestrade said...

It was one of those links that did the rounds in the office.

Danger - like the way the sloths hang themselves out to dry. Why can't we get Sherlock to do that? Instead of having to pursue him around the flat.

Anonymous said...

DW - I agree with CR, what does happen once you go over the cuteness threshold? I don't disagree with you on the silver fox, but what about the Lestallion? This household is getting rather full, and quickly. Oh, right, and Mrs. H downstairs and the security team. Erm...

John - First time I saw it, I wondered if I was imagining things....

Greg - I've seen that elsewhere. Never fails to bring a mixed amused/mortified smile to my face. :) By the way, do you know about the site cakewrecks?

This might entertain you: http://www.cakewrecks.com/home/2008/5/30/this-made-me-laugh-til-i-cried.html#comment14428136

They also have Sunday Sweets posts of beautiful (non-wreck) cakes: http://www.cakewrecks.com/home/2012/2/12/sunday-sweets-be-my-valentine.html

~A from NW

John H. D. Watson said...

He does fluff up exactly the same way though.

REReader said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Anonymous said...

It's amazing how cute animal pictures can lift the mood :-) Loving them all

Anony

REReader said...

Here's one for the guitarists.

REReader said...

And an otter is always cute.

Greg Lestrade said...

Danger - he does. And sleep as soundly.

RR - if you took that down because of the caption, you didn't have to. I did sort of presume you weren't aiming it at me.

REReader said...

For any Harry Potter fans...

REReader said...

I'm weird. (Obviously I wasn't but then I thought better of it anyway.)

REReader said...

Anyone for pandas?

(BTW, I have a whole folder of these...)

Greg Lestrade said...

Anony - yeah. Thanks, all of you. Again.

I suppose tomorrow I'll try and sit down with Sherlock and...explain. I don't really know what to say to him. I mean, I don't know how much he'll understand, vs how much he'll just get angry about.

Anon Without A Name said...

Heh - am I the only person on the internet who doesn't keep bookmarks of cute animals? Emergency Cute Stuff to the rescue: https://twitter.com/#!/EmergencyPuppy/media/grid

REReader said...

Here's one for Mycroft...

CzechReader said...

Have yourself a lion

(I'm actually going to try and sleep.)

Greg Lestrade said...

Nameless - I only have the dog because it went 'round the office recently, and I thought I might post it on here sometime. I definitely don't keep a folder of animals. I think Danger visits zooborns daily, though.

Night, CR. Thanks. Hope you sleep well.

REReader said...

L, getting angry would be an appropriate reaction. And it would be okay to let John explain, or explain first.


And...for what it's worth, L--you can tell yourself that we only know you from a distance, as it were, and that's true. (I think that's enough to know the sort of mistake you might make and the sort you would not, but okay, say it's not.)

But John and Mycroft both are not only are willing to get on a bike with you, they want to and ask to. And Mrs H is perfectly happy to let you drive Sherlock, at night, after a full day's work. There are some very solid assessments of your judgment behind the wheel right there, from people who know you best.

John H. D. Watson said...

Not daily...

REReader said...

Moar...turtles!

(Moar?)

REReader said...

There are always kittehs...

REReader said...

...and more kittehs...

Anon Without A Name said...

Lestrade - I predict that the word "stupid" may feature quite heavily in Sherlock's response. To be fair to him, the nuances of why it's standard to suspend an officer involved in this kind of incident are likely to be lost on someone who doesn't really quite get why we have to have trials, rather than just locking the bad guys up as soon as we (you) catch them.

I predict there will also be hugs :-)

Anonymous said...

Sherlock will enjoy the bonus time with you although his anger at the situation will be understandable.

Try to get yourself some sleep, or atleast some rest, before trying to explain it to him though.

(I'm off to try and get some sleep now I'm not so worried about you!)

Anony

REReader said...

...and yet more kittehs...

REReader said...

...and a couple of diligent horses. (Possibly stallions. It would be rude to check.)

(If you want me to stop, just say so. Otherwise I'll assume you don't mind being drowned in Lolcats...)

REReader said...

And another for Hogwarts fans...

REReader said...

(The captcha on that one included "cattio".)

Greg Lestrade said...

RR - I wasn't just driving, I was trying to stop him. He was my suspect. I think There's a fine line between doing that safely and dangerously. I believe I was on the right side of it, but it's ultimately not up to me to make that decision now. I've told them my side, and that's all I can do except wait.

Anony - sorry to have kept you up!

Everyone else, I think I'd like to at least try to explain things to Sherlock, probably tomorrow morning. I'm sure Mycroft will help him understand a bit.

Anon Without A Name said...

Lestrade - I saw it going round on twitter, and had a giggle to myself :-)

John - every other day? A couple of times a week? ;-)

REReader said...

Is anyone using Firefox as a browser?

And here's one for the other back seat drivers. (Doesn't look like she wants to play yellow car, does she?)

John H. D. Watson said...

Once a week at most!

Anonymous said...

hey hey I never said you'd kept me up just that I was actually worried about you.

Good luck with Sherlock and hope you get some rest.

Anony

REReader said...

L, I think...no, I know, with no shadow of a doubt...that you will always err on the side of "safely" when others are concerned.

I may not have met you in person, but I know you and I trust you. And I am not the only one. I know that doesn't help much, but it's truth.

Greg Lestrade said...

I don't know if any minds the pictures, RR, to be honest, I stopped looking after the first few posted, sorry.

I think it's Danger's homepage, Nameless.

REReader said...

In that case I will hold the rest in reserve. In case the juggling thing doesn't work out.

Greg Lestrade said...

Yeah, well, like I said, I think I was safe enough, but it's not much counsellation when two people have ended up in hospital, one of them an innocent kid who might not even survive. Does't seem like it was very safe, when that's the result, does it?

But regardless. All I can do is wait now. Which feels like a pretty hard thing to do.

REReader said...

I know. That you feel that way...It's one of the reasons I trust you to have made good choices--the best available to you. It's painful and miserable and unfair that best decisions don't always lead to good results.

I really wish I could hug you.

ro said...

Lestrade, what an unhappy situation. I'll keep my fingers crossed that the little guy makes it through, and that this is all sorted and you're back at work quickly.

Greg Lestrade said...

Ro, thanks. And yeah, all I can think about is the little boy, really. I really thought he was dead already, when we got to him.

Anonymous said...

Ok too worried about you to sleep.

Its a horrid situation to be in and you have so many doubts right now because of the outcome and that's perfectly understandable

good people feel bad when they are involved in someone gettin hurt if its their fault or not.

You are a good person try and hang on to that.

Anony

REReader said...

I've been praying for the boy, L. He wasn't dead when you got to him, so that's something to hold onto. And you already know that making all the right choices doesn't always mean things will turn out right, and I'm sure it doesn't help to hear it over and over--but it's true. And you weren't the only one making decisions. You want to take it all on yourself, and you are taking it all on yourself...but it isn't all on you despite that.

As Anony says, you are a good person. And we are here for you.

Greg Lestrade said...

Well...thanks. But do try and sleep. Or at least, sign up to insomniacs anonymous. We meet here pretty often.

Are you...new? Or just new to commenting? It never ceases to amaze me how many nice people find these blogs and join in. And even worry.

I know thinking about all the worst things that could happen is stupid but...inevitable? I don't know. Suppose I feel like my life's pretty amazing right now, and I could lose it, and that's kind of terrifying.

Anonymous said...

New to commenting :-) been around a while but worried about you today.

A good life can stay good you know whatever bumps come along the way its not all or nothing in this life.

Try and get yourself some rest before talkin and explaining are required in the morning.

Anony

REReader said...

You won't lose it. You won't lose John, you won't lose Sherlock or Mycroft. They know you and love you and you are stuck with them for good and all. They will not let you go, and they will not sit by and let an injustice that major be done.

And I know that that doesn't make it less terrifying. So I really, REALLY wish I could hug you, because words are sometimes highly inadequate--but even if I could that's probably not what you need. I think this is one time that it would be a good idea--not just an okay idea--to wake up John.

But if you won't, well, I'll be right here for another 4 or 5 hours, less a brief intermission to haul my mom's groceries from the car up to the apartment. (Although you might not find that at all comforting. Heh.)

Greg Lestrade said...

Oh, well, thank you. You really have all made me feel a bit better - even without the baby animals.

And yeah, you're right. I'm just not very good at not feeling in control any more, i think. And right now I don't think I've ever been less in control.

I'll do you a deal on the sleep - we'll both try and get some, right?

Greg Lestrade said...

RR - honestly, rationally, I think the investigation will show I wasn't in the wrong.

But I don't think you'll find many people in my position who can think of many worse things happening than getting sent down. And, bottom line, I could end up doing two years for this, if that's what the courts decided. And i'd find it very hard to believe I wouldn't lose a hell of a lot if that happened. Even if I didn't lose John and the boys, i'd lose my job, and that's a massive part of who I am.

And even if I don't think that'll happen, there's a bit of me that needs to prepare for it anyway, because I need to, and I'd rather prepare for it and feel that relief when it doesn't happen, than not, and then have it all to think about when I'm on my own.

Anonymous said...

Your on.

Sleep well

Anony

Anonymous from the Sacred Oak said...

Lestrade, I hope things improve quickly, for that little boy, for your hospitalized suspect, and for you.

I know that when something this upsetting happens, things just can't be okay again immediately, but I hope tomorrow and every day after is a little better. And I hope that's not too depressing-- I've been thinking over past traumas tonight, so the fact that things improve slowly but they _do_ improve is very much on my mind.

Hugs to all of you. Keep taking deep breaths, and we'll try to do that with you, yeah? All we can do is live through the moments we're in right now. Better moments always come after bad.

REReader said...

...You do what you need to do.

Please remember to keep a balance in there, as best as you can. Your rational self is better able to assess the situation than your exhausted and battered self, especially in the small hours of the morning.

And you won't ever be on your own, not entirely, not any more.

Anonymous said...

..--- ..--- .---- -...

REReader said...

What the heck?

mazarin said...

I'm sure I can figure out a reply in Morse, too, anon, but as the boys can translate it anyway, I'll refrain. Wouldn't want Mycroft to think I had no decorum.

Greg Lestrade said...

Thanks, guys.

REReader said...

Hey, L.

Anonymous said...

Greg - Never a problem for us to keep you company. I know a little bit of what it's like, preparing for the worst while hoping that it will never come true. I wish I had more to offer than the only way I got through it was taking every moment as it came and holding on tight to the people who love me.

We're all hoping for the best outcome, for you and for that little boy.

-A from NW

H. Savinien said...

Cripes, what a day. Good luck with everything, Lestrade.

*offers belated unadulterated hot cocoa with peppermint marshmallows*

Desert Wanderer said...

Hope you're actually asleep, Lestrade, and not up worrying alone in silence. <3

Kholly said...

Turning in now and hoping you've managed some sleep. If not I suppose your wake up call will come soon enough. Good luck getting through the day. Hopefully you'll hear some good news about the little boy.

Anonymous said...

I'm going to assume you got some sleep or atleast some rest seen so you've been quiet :-) hope it helped a bit.

Good luck with explaining it all to Sherlock today and I hope any news from the hospital is good news.

I know cyber hugs are no where near as good as real hugs but they're the best I can do so I'm sending some anyway.

Anony

Anonymous said...

Hope today brings better news

CzechReader said...

Good morning, everybody. Let's have a good day :-)

Anon Without A Name said...

Morning all.

Hope you managed to get at least some sleep, Lestrade. I know you're planning to talk to Sherlock today; how was Mycroft taking the news last night?

I completely understand the need to prepare for the worst, but I hope you can find a little balance over the next few days, rather than just focussing on that possible outcome.

I forgot to ask last night - how is the DC who was with you? I assume you'd have mentioned if he or she were injured.

Hope you have at least an approximation of a reasonable day with the boys today.

Small Hobbit said...

And good morning from me. Having been asleep for quite a lot of last night's conversation I'd just like to say I can quite understand you wanting to be prepared for the worst L. And having read your thoughts in the past I'm not very surprised that you feel like having reached somewhere good in your life you can see it all being dragged away from you, with things being out of your control again. However, as others have said, this time those you have around you aren't the sort who will desert you at the first hint of trouble. So, just try to be kind to yourself.

Greg Lestrade said...

Thanks, all. I got a bit of sleep, on and off, and talked to John a bit. And this morning tried to explain it to Sherlock... but, yeah, he doesn't really want to accept it all. Wants it to be sorted. Can't believe police officers can ever be wrong...

Mycroft's quiet. Supportive. Worried. And... I don't know how to help him with that, really.

And John's trying to keep us all going.

Greg Lestrade said...

Oh, and my DC is fine. He wasn't in the car with me. He didn't get hurt, but, I mean, he still saw it all, so probably a bit shaken. But otherwise fine. Obviously I'm not allowed to speak to him, as he's considered a witness.

Desert Wanderer said...

Glad to hear you got some sleep, at least. I think we assumed your dc was alright, or you would have said something about him, too.

Did you guys plan anything for today?

Anonymous said...

Glad you got some sleep :-) talking is good so keep doing it.

Mycroft may be more grown up and certainly might consider himself that way but hugs work for grownups just as well as they do for kids :-)

Be good to yourselves today all of you.

Anony

Anonymous said...

I've just caught up on all that, I just want to say I'm very sorry Lestrade. I hope everything get sorted as soon as possible, and I'm very glad you had a supportive home to back to yesterday (and all days :) )

Oh, and for another night, in case of insomnia: http://vimeo.com/15206815

Take care of yourselves all of you, I know I don't need to tell you to take care of each other.

Anon from paris

REReader said...

Rough night and tough morning--I'm glad you managed some sleep, L. I'm hoping and assuming you're all having some good together time now.

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