It is fear that floods his heart when he hears the news. His knuckles turn white from gripping the arms of his throne and the bright smile on Guinevere's face falters when he fails to respond.
Three years.
Every month, when her bleeding started and they realise she hadn't conceived again, Arthur would hold her in his arms, sharing in her disappointment. Except deep down in his heart, it wasn't disappointment he felt but relief. As long as Guinevere remained without child, he could keep her safe.
And now, she stands before him and tells him otherwise. Her eyes are sparkling, her hand splayed protectively over her still flat stomach.
"Are you not pleased?"
He forces a smile on his faces, pushes away the fear that has wrapped around his heart. "I am. Very pleased." He knows she doesn't believe him so he stands and pulls her into a hug, burying his face in her neck so she cannot see his face.
"Arthur," she whispers as if reading his mind, her arms wrapping tightly around him. "We'll be fine. I'll be fine."
There is screaming and every sound tears at his heart.
"Are you sure she'll be alright?"
"Martha is very experienced," repeats Gaius calmly as he fusses with his vials and bottles.
Arthur continues to pace. "Where is Merlin? I don't want him or his magic near Guinevere."
"He's gone to pick herbs for Gwen. She'll need them after the baby is birthed."
"Guinevere will be fine," Arthur chants to himself. "Guinevere will be fine." It does nothing to ease his anxiety but at least it gives him something to do.
When one of the maidservants flings open the door in excitement and pants that the Queen has given birth, Arthur springs to his feet, the heavy feeling of dread lifting from his heart.
He doesn't see the remnant blood, the slightly squashed face or the wrinkles. All he sees is the most perfect being cradled in the arms of his greatest love. Guinevere smiles tiredly at him and his heart swells. Reaching out an arm, she beckons him to her and ignoring the tutting of Martha, he climbs onto the bed and holds mother and daughter in an embrace.