Regret is something I know well. Take care not to cling to it, to hold it so close that it poisons your soul. – Flemeth, Dragon age II

It had been a week since both Gwaine and Merlin had shared their kiss within the wild forest, they hadn't the time to talk properly since, but tonight that would change. Gwaine had gallantly invited her to get a drink with him at the local tavern…Okay so maybe it wasn't so gallant, But a girl could dream.

Merlin figured it was time to stand on her own two feet, so she bravely dressed herself; leaving her long raven hair to frame her face. After supplying Arthur and Gwen with their dinners and quickly departing she was on her way down to the tavern to meet with her knight.

The servant had only walked through the threshold when she heard the booming Irish brogue. She turned, her eyes searching him out. Merlin's eyes found him. Only he didn't seem to notice her as he grabbed a barmaid by her face and brought their lips together. Merlin's heart shattered into pieces, she now remembered why she had taught herself not to love. After Frey it was all just too much.

The woman turned on her heel and ran for the door, her heart in her stomach and tears trailing down her porcelain face.

….

Gwaine woke with a start. His head booming as he tried to gather his surroundings. He was immediately aware of a warm body nestled against his chest. With a sick hope he dared to believe it was Merlin, Only to be disappointed when he was met with the sight of a very pretty—very naked barmaid. His eyes widened as he lifted the sheet to see that he too was naked. He couldn't remember a thing from last night. He'd been waiting for Merl—MERLIN! He suddenly remembered he hoped to the God's that she hadn't seen him last night.

He'd ruined everything, every chance of happiness with Merlin. She was all he'd ever wanted and now she was gone… taken from him by his own stupidity.