Disclaimer: I do not own Merlin or any of the characters. If I did, I'd lock Merlin and Arthur in a room and say "You're not coming out until you admit your love for each other, damnit!"

Story: In an attempt to challenge myself I am writing from Arthur's POV instead of Merlin's like I usually do. I have taken eight words, chosen at random from a dictionary, and made a story about how those eight things bring Arthur and Merlin together.

SHOULDER

It hadn't occurred to Arthur that bringing Merlin on his hunt would be a bad idea. His feelings lately had died down, though hadn't disappeared completely. But today both Arthur and Merlin were in a good mood, acting more like friends than usual. So when Merlin began to flash that beautiful smile in Arthur's direction, Arthur found himself distracted from hunting, and missed several of his shots.

"Arthur, are you alright?" Merlin had phrased this delicately, he hadn't wanted to offend the prince.

"I think I feel a little ill," Arthur lied feebly.

Merlin nodded. "We'd better head back." Then his beautiful smile returned. "I don't think Uther would be too pleased with me if you collapsed in the forest on me."

Arthur began to walk, mentally scolding himself for wanting to reply – You could always give me the kiss of life.

"Arthur, wait!"

Arthur gasped, feeling a warm hand on his shoulder, and turned to Merlin, confused. "You had a leaf on your shoulder," Merlin explained.

"Oh, right," Arthur cleared his throat, and turned back, willing his hot cheeks to cool.