Just his servant

Disclaimer: As much as I love the show, I own nothing!

Merlin is just his servant. Nothing more. That's what Arthur tries to convince himself of almost daily. But he knows the truth lies elsewhere. Things have changed since the boy came to Camelot. He, Arthur, has changed. His actions hold more thought and care now, and his life seems to have more purpose, more meaning and spark. And, even though he constantly denies it, the prince believes that it has something to do with Merlin. He has never had a servant anything like this boy. And probably never will again. But that hurts. Another servant, that would seem weird now. Much as the boy annoys him, Merlin has proved to be a good companion; maybe Arthur could even go so far as to call him a friend. Friends with a servant? A prince? That would not be encouraged in Camelot. Arthur knows his father would not like it, and would sack the boy without hesitation if he knew. But Arthur doesn't care. Merlin is his friend, and in friendship, status shouldn't matter. Doesn't matter.