Hahaha! I had not read this in a while, and I love Mycroft's intervention. As always, well written and vivid -thanks!

How good is this? Clever - and as if the other ninety percent of the iceberg that is this story is just waiting for the sea level to go down a bit for us to see and read the rest (Easier said than done!). Beautifully written, beautifully resolved, unflinching and beautifully understated.
This story deserves more reviews and readings!

Ah Mycroft - always watching out for the little brother! The denial of reality in the phrase "not a love affair - means to an end" works well in both situations, where the object of desire was far more important than either of the boys wanted to admit. Your writing makes it easy to picture these scenes as they play out. Thank you!