Note: inspired by Paolo Nutini's song of the same title and the shortest arwen scene in the world in 3x02! Hope you like it :)
Grant My Last Request
Arthur was deep in thought, contemplating the castle's impending siege when a light knock at the door brought him out of his reverie. His heart lifted at the sight of Gwen even if his serious expression did not change.
Since the events of the Kilgarrah's attack on Camelot, they had said nothing to each other about their feelings for each other, instead relying on cautious looks and stolen glances to convey their emotions. It was most unsatisfactory but the constant search for Morgana's whereabouts used up so much energy that really, they had not had the luxury of picking over the minutiae of their relationship.
Gwen's impassioned speech about her trust and faith in him was the most she had said to him for a long while but nonetheless, it renewed his hope that they would share a future together. However, she had been quick to distance herself from him as soon as she realised that a closer, more tender moment was imminent.
"There is every need, sire."
The words cut him and she had already turned away to leave but he called out to her on impulse.
"Guinevere."
She would have done the sensible thing and kept walking but something in his voice caught her and drew her back to him – she could not resist even if she wanted to.
"Sire?" Gwen avoided meeting his eyes.
"Guinevere," he repeated, this time more softly. He could still feel her hand on his arm then her hand beneath his when he had held her for that very brief moment. "You say trust me and believe in me. Then believe in me when I tell you that there is no need to call me 'sire'."
Without thinking, Arthur reached out and encircled her with his strong arms and Gwen found that she had no wish to leave him again. He lifted a hand to touch her cheek. "Guinevere, I know you think that we cannot be together but please…" his bright blue eyes searched her face, "…before I go, will you stay with me a while?"
With his father ill and the fate of Camelot far from secure and teetering on the brink of disaster, in this private moment away from public view, Arthur looked so lost and in need of comfort. The dark circles under his eyes and gauntness to his cheekbones told Gwen that he had not slept or eaten properly for some time. The prince carried the weight of an entire kingdom on his shoulders and she could feel her heart breaking for him.
Letting go of her reservations, Gwen allowed herself to enjoy the warmth of his embrace and they silently held each other.
Neither of them spoke as Arthur went over to close the door before gently leading her to the bed. The pang of fear she felt was unwarranted when he whispered softly to her, "Just let me hold you."
Hesitantly, Gwen lay down next to Arthur, his arms wrapped protectively around her delicate form as the candles sputtered in their holders. She lay very still, her head on his shoulder as gradually she heard his breathing become soft and regular. Carefully looking up, she smiled softly at his sleeping face. He looked so peaceful. Treasuring this rare moment, Gwen nestled closer against Arthur and prayed that after tomorrow, he would be returned safely to her.