Farewell
3 days later...
Tony stood next to Sherlock by the portal that June had left for him. It would close and never open again once Holmes stepped through it.
“You know I’m sure I want to,” Sherlock said and cast his glance over to Tony. He wasn’t sure he wanted to leave. He liked the future, and he liked Tony.
“You know you have to,” Tony said quietly. Sherlock didn’t like the prick of sadness in the man’s voice.
“I know,” Sherlock mumbled absentmindedly, “I just-”
“I know,” Stark said with a nod, “I know what you mean.”
Sherlock was glad the man understood what he was trying to say without him having to say it. He said it anyway.
“It’s different for you, you can look to the history books to know what becomes of me… I don’t get to-” Sherlock didn’t like this. He didn’t like the emotion clawing its way up him, “I’ll never know…”
Sherlock didn’t dare look at Stark. It would just make things worse. Sherlock felt tears stinging the edge of his eyes.
“I wish-” Tony’s voice cracked, “I’m sorry.”
They stood in silence for a little while, and then Sherlock spoke.
“Well what’s the point of living if not for those mysteries you can’t solve.”
Stark smiled sadly.
“I suppose you have a point. Maybe some mysteries don’t get solved,” Tony said and sniffled. Sherlock finally worked up enough courage to look Tony in the eyes.
“Your crying,” Sherlock whispered.
“You should see you,” Stark laughed. Sherlock was glad no one else was around to see their manly tears. It was very undignified.
Sherlock sucked in, whipped his eyes, and straightened up. That was enough motion for now.
“Well goodbye,” Sherlock said quickly, and was about to duck through the portal when Stark stopped him.
“Best of luck to you,” Tony smiled fondly and pulled Sherlock into a hug. The most real hug Sherlock had ever felt. Why couldn't he stay?
“Goodbye Tony,” Sherlock whispered, a tear slipped down his face, and he stepped back, through the portal. The future shimmered out of view.