I'm so glad you liked it! I was incredibly nervous with this, my first Holmistice offering.

The title was definitely intentional. You got it - this is the part where Holmes gets to draw a breath and regroup before setting off again. Besides, I think the musical reference is just a natural for a fic with him and Irene.

I hate stories where Irene is hopelessly pining after Holmes. I also don't like to see her as a thief or as a sex worker. I think she's a savvy, street-smart woman with the guts to make her own way in the world and the intelligence to match wits with Holmes. That's the way I tried to portray her and I'm glad it came through.