[Considering John's done a 180 from where he was when he initially brought the whole thing up, it's not unreasonable for Royce to be confused on where the doctor stands. He scoffs lightly before replying.]

And I thought you'd agree with Alfie. So, here we are. It's not worth getting into a fight over there when we've got something bigger separating us, though. [He sighs again.] If Sherlock comes back... we'll probably have to deal with it then. That's my side of things, anyway. Do with it what you want.