IRENE ADLER
I can’t take all the credit. Had a bit of help. Uh- Jim Moriarty sends his love.
On Sherlock’s back – stiffening. On Mycroft, a sober note.
MYCROFT
Yes, he’s been in touch. Seems desperate for my attention. (Makes a note) Which I’m sure can be arranged.
IRENE ADLER
I had all this stuff, never knew what to do with it. Thank God, for the consultant criminal. Gave me lots of advice about how to play the Holmes boys. Do you know what he calls you – the Ice Man. And the Virgin.
On Sherlock again. Still not turning, still not rising to it.
IRENE ADLER
Didn’t even ask for anything. I think he just likes to cause trouble. Now that’s my kind of man.
MYCROFT
(And) here you are. The dominatrix who brought a nation to its knees. Nicely played.
He starts to stand, but –
SHERLOCK
(Still without turning)
No.
IRENE ADLER
Sorry?
Sherlock, turning now. Quite his old self, cold as ice.
SHERLOCK
I said, no. Very, very close, but no. You got carried away, the game was too elaborate – you enjoyed yourself too much.
IRENE ADLER
There’s no such thing as too much.
SHERLOCK
Oh, enjoying thrill of the chase is fine. Craving the distraction of the game – I sympathize entirely. But sentiment? Sentiment is a chemical defect found in the losing side.
IRENE ADLER
Sentiment? What are you talking about?
SHERLOCK
You.
IRENE ADLER
Oh dear God, look at the poor man. You don’t actually think I was interested in you? Why? Because you’re the great Sherlock Holmes? The clever detective with the funny hat?
SHERLOCK
No. Because I took your pulse.
SHERLOCK
Elevated. Your pupils dilated.
SHERLOCK
Imagine John Watson thinks love is a mystery to me. But the chemistry is incredibly simple. And very destructive.
When we first met, you told me the disguise is always a self-portrait. How true of you. The combination of your safe – your measurements. But this – this is far more intimate. This – is your heart. And you should never let it rule your head.
(Presses one key. A beep)
You could’ve just chosen any random number walked out of here today with everything you worked for.
(Another key – beep)
But you just couldn’t resist it, could you? I’ve always assumed that love is a dangerous disadvantage –
(Beep)
Thank you for the final proof.
He holds the phone out to her, displaying the screen.
Irene, rocked already, just stares at it. Everything is lost. Maybe there’s even a tear in her eye, as she looks up at him.
IRENE ADLER
Everything I said – it’s not real. I was just playing the game.
SHERLOCK
I know. And this is just losing.
The final beep. And now we see the fully entered code. Letters not numbers, and the screen now reads:
SHERLOCK
There you are, brother. I hope the contents make up for any inconvenience I may have caused you tonight.
Mycroft, bemusedly staring at the phone. He’s pleased at the victory, but just a little chilled at how Sherlock won.
MYCROFT
I’m certain they will…
SHERLOCK
If you’re feeling kind, lock her up. If not, let her go. I doubt she’ll survive long without her protection.
IRENE ADLER
Are you expecting me to beg?
SHERLOCK
Yes
He turns, heading to the door, almost gets there –
IRENE ADLER
Please.
He looks round. She’s standing now – so vulnerable. Pleading.
IRENE ADLER
You’re right. I won’t even last six months.
Pushing in Sherlock now – that cold, cruel face.
SHERLOCK
Sorry about dinner.
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