Chapter 1
Merlin watched as sunlight shined off blond hair. He wasn't sure when it had happened, but it didn't really matter at this point. He had fallen in love with the man he was destined to protect. "Merlin!" Arthur yelled, knocking the boy from his thoughts, "Quit daydreaming and do your job." He shouted smiling.
Merlin loved that smile; it was rare, it only happened when he was training with the knights or when they were 'fighting'. "Right." Merlin said turning around and going back to what he was suppose to be doing, polishing Arthur's saddle. However, this was a simple task and it wasn't long before his mind wondered again. It had been three weeks since Merlin had ut the word 'love' to what he felt for his master and friend. Once that word crossed his mind it refused to leave and before long he had sworn to tell Arthur about everything, his love and his magic.
Again, that was three weeks ago. Everyday Merlin said to himself, "Today's the day." However, everyday he also found a reason to 'wait till tomorrow.
"He's exhausted from training the knights."
"I'm crabby from hunting."
"He has that speech to prepare and I can't stress him out more."
"He had a good day, so I shouldn't ruin it."
Again Merlin was roused from his thoughts by Arthur, who was now standing over him. "Merlin. How long does it take you to pull your head out of the clouds?"
Merlin looked up from his work and blushed, "Ummmm."
"Are you feeling alright?" Arthur asked suddenly concerned, "You look a bit feverish and have been acting strangely lately."
Merlin returned his attentions to the saddle, avoiding Arthur's gaze. 'Of course.' Merlin thought, ' Two years of saving his prat ass with magic every other day and he doesn't notice, but after three weeks of being on love with him and now he suspects something's up.' "I'm fine Arthur." He said.
Arthur put his hand on Merlin's head, causing him to blush deeper. "Maybe, after you finish, you should take the rest of the day off."
Merlin looked up shocked.
Arthur removed his hand. "Don't flatter yourself. " He said walking away. "I just don't want to go through the hassle of finding a new servent."