Chapter 1- Whispers in the Night

Gwen had been seeing Lancelot for months. She loved him completely, all her attention on Merlin suddenly diverted by the shy young knight, who had won her heart through his respect and caring, loving attitude. He may be a knight, way above her servant status, but he was like no man she's ever known.

She sobbed into her pillow, distraught beyond all belief, her tears flowing with her sorrow. 'Why now? Why?' she asked herself again and again, realising the awful truth of her love. She knew Lancelot was a great knight, welcomed back to Camelot because of his courageous deeds. Could there ever really be security and safety in a relationship like theirs? Was there any hope for the future?

*

Lancelot removed his heavy armour, quickly, changing into a loose casual shirt, presentable for Gwen. He rubbed some scented oil onto his sweaty skin, and picked a rose for her on the way to her house. She was waiting, seemingly anxious, fidgeting with her dress. He hugged her close, kissing her head, breathing in her sweet scent.

"What's wrong?" he asked, concerned. Gwen tugged away, her face pale. She smiled weakly when he presented the crushed rose to her. She glanced up into his warm, protective, gorgeous eyes.

"Lancelot… Lancelot, do you think we'd ever have a future together?"

He paused. "I would hope so. Why, Gwen?"

She averted her gaze, biting her lip. "Because- because- I'm pregnant, Lancelot. We're having a baby together."

She risked a quick look at his face. It was calm, happy and surprised, in a positive way. She caught her breath, exhilarated at this, but still terrified he's desert her.

"Oh, Gwen! A baby!" His eyes glazed over. "I can't believe that I could be gifted with a child! Oh, Gwen, we'll be so happy!"

"Really? You won't leave me?"

"Never! Surely you didn't think I would? Oh, Gwen… You're the love of my life, the reason I fight for Arthur, and now, now you have graced me with a child. I'm really not worthy of all this…"

"Worthy? Lancelot, you're a knight!"

"But a father? That's a title to be proud of, Gwen. I don't care if you're a servant, you're my love. We should move in together."

"Where?" Gwen laughed.

"Anywhere you wish. Actually, I have my own news, my own present for you." Lancelot took Guinevere's hand, and knelt on one knee. He opened a glosst little box, with a perfect silver ring, encrusted with a single tiny emerald, which matched her eyes.

"Will you marry me, Gwen?"

*