Arthur turned over in his sleep, feeling Merlin's sot warm body he pulled him closer ignoring his quiet murmurs of protest that only lasted a few moments before he settled back down into his arms. Arthur didn't need to open his eyes to see that Merlin's hands were folded against his chest as though he were praying, his face peaceful while in sleep. The worry lines around his mouth were beginning to make him mad. While he may love to taunt him with his princely commands, he had always made sure he had had everything he needed. He always would have everything he needed. Even if he woke up one day and realised he was far too good for him.
"Wake up." Arthur said roughly rolling out of bed. Merlin opened one eyes, surprise groggily clouding his eyes still half trapped in the dream world.
"Sire?" Merlin mumbled more like an endearment than a title.
Arthur reached in the bed and grabbed him by the hand. Yelping he was practically dragged out of bed. Only dressed in cotton boxers they fell tantalising low on his narrow hips.
Hauling him to the middle of the room Arthur left him standing there, intent and determination sizzling in his veins like a fire he couldn't stand to contain anymore. Taking a breath he tried to slow down.
"I'm a prince Merlin." Arthur carefully, sombrely. Conflicted thoughts flickering across his eyes.
"I believe I'm aware of this, Sire." Merlin frowned concerned speaking slowly as if trying to give himself time to figure out what was going on. Merlin didn't like his tone, he was so serious…his eyes so resolute. If Arthur was anything he was stubborn and once he got something in his head there was no stopping him. With that thought his heart quickened. What if he didn't want him anymore? What if this was him trying to break up? Merlins eyes widened at the thought.
"Father told me yesterday that he will be stepping down before the next moon. Now more than ever I need my people's confidence that I can rule with greatness and wisdom. I can't afford disgrace to my name. You have to understand, we can't be lovers anymore. Secrets don't stay hidden for long and if they find out…they won't understand our relationship. Have you ever heard of two kings ruling together?" Arthur began to pace while speaking heatedly.
Merlin shook his head numbly gulping hard, his heart breaking while he tried to hold back tears that were so hot they could have been blood seeping from the giant hole now in his chest.
"Me neither." Arthurs voice was hoarse.
"I understand….I'll leave immediately. Thank you for explaining it to me kindly. I much appreciate it, sire." Merlin sucked in his sobs as he turned on his heel.
Arthur almost growled as he jerked him back. But Merlin refused to look at him. To show him his pain. Arthur uncharacteristically threw his arms around him, hugging him hard. He buried his head in Merlin's shoulder.
"Let's be the first." Arthur whispered.
Merlin almost got whiplash as a different kind of shock hit him hard. Merlin pulled back needing to see if he was serious.
"Maybe I'm crazy to think people will accept us. But if you want this…you need to tell me I you want this. Because if you do then I will fight tooth and nail for this. I'm not used to asking. But please…be mine?"