"I'm going to marry Gwenivere."
Merlin froze. The plate in his hand clattered to the floor and he muttered an apology. His head was whirling, spinning, a haze of pain and countless other emotions drowning out Arthurs loving speech. He should have known, should have guessed that this was going to happen. He heard Arthur say something in a humorous tone, and forced himself to laugh, hoping it was convincing. But soon Arthur was talking again, with that look on his face, full of happiness and love, the look he only seemed to get when talking about Gwen. The look Merlin would do anything to receive.
Arthur walked out of the room, probably to plan the wedding, merlin thought dryly. He faked a smile when Arthur seemed to look at him, then let his face fall back into misery. Of course Arthur was going to marry Gwen, it wasn't as though he could ever want to marry Merlin. "Stupid, stupid, stupid", thought merlin. How did I become so stupid to think that he could actually like me? He followed Arthur out of the room, escaping from Agravaine's curious stare. Once he reached an abandoned corridor, it all became too much. He sat on the floor and began to sob.
Arthur walked down the corridor, deep in thought. Considering the conversation he had just had, he knew he should have been thinking about Gwen, or Agravaine, but he wasn't. His head, as usual, was full of thoughts about Merlin, his stupid, clumsy manservant, and his reaction to the news of the wedding. He seemed fine, thought Arthur sighing, happy even. Suddenly, Arthur heard a sob. Turning the corridor, he saw merlin sitting on the floor, tears streaming down his face. Arthur fought the overwhelming urge to run and comfort him, instead speaking softly.
"Merlin?"
The raven haired boy turned, and swore loudly. Soon he was running in the opposite direction to where Arthur was standing. Arthur had no idea what was going on, but there was no way in hell he was letting Merlin get away from him without talking to him. He ran after Merlin, shouting his name. He reached Gaius' door just as it slammed in his face.
"Merlin let me in!" he shouted, punching the door with his fist in frustration.
The door opened to the worried and confused face of Gaius.
"Would you care to explain what is going on sire?"