The temporary living arrangements did not go completely smoothly. Try as he might Merlin still found Arthur's presence difficult at times. Although it had been a long time since he had lived with Brad the recent events had not helped. Arthur also found it difficult at times but for quite the opposite reason. He was finding himself more and more attracted to the other man.

Merlin had started back at work part time. His first shift had been chosen with care, Leon had made sure that both Gwen and Freya were also on duty. For the first week he worked mornings only but by the second week he was up to full time but still not doing the Friday night and Saturday shifts. Leon felt the potential risk of more problems wasn't worth it for a while. That didn't mean Merlin wasn't getting his fair share of troublemakers and drunks. But he was well supported. He did however find it very tiring at first. Added to that was the media interest which had still hovered over his life. By being careful he had managed not to let anyone find out where he was now living. This was thanks to his friends who acted as a taxi service for him.

Uther and the others had been charged but vigorously denied the charges. It was clear that Uther was the one most likely to come off best as the evidence against him was circumstantial and the police were hoping that Sarrum would testify against him. It seemed Brad had never dealt with Uther directly and didn't actually know of his involvement. Either way it was clear that Uther's opportunity of a top cabinet post had been put on hold. It would be months before the trial and all three men were back out but with court orders in place to keep away from Merlin. It was now a waiting game. With contracts signed Bred tried to open his business but found with the cloud over his head he was getting very little business. He did however go ahead with his wedding and honeymoon, although in the UK as the conditions of his bail meant they couldn't have their original honeymoon. Mordred his new husband was sticking by Brad and in public was adamant that the blonde was innocent. What he knew of the real events was anyone's guess.

Merlin's lawyer was very competent and was confident that they would get the convictions they wanted, but in truth Merlin wasn't that worried as long as he didn't have to see any of the men again. He hoped for Morgana and Arthur's sake that Uther wouldn't go to prison. Even though they assured him that wouldn't worry them. As to Brad Merlin still felt some of the blame was his for how things turned out.

Merlin had stopped wearing his pressure vests but instead wore white t shirts under his clothing. So in most cases no one knew the difference, but it wasn't as hot for him. He was still determined that no one should see his scars. But after speaking to Alice he had contacted Changing Faces, a support group for people with disfigurement, for support. He was determined to try and overcome some of his issues although he knew he was lucky that he could cover his scars, even the one on his face. He hoped one day to be able to have a relationship but knew he would have problems accepting anyone would want him.

After he had been staying at Arthurs for two months Merlin told Arthur he was going to move back to his sisters "The fuss has died down now, I need to move back and get on with my life." He explained "Thank you for your help but I'm sure you will be glad to see the back of me."

"That's not true Merlin, anyway I think you should stay longer the trial starts soon you should get that over the way first, believe me the press interest will increase again" Arthur said honestly, but at the same time he was finding it increasingly difficult to keep his feelings secret. He wanted to ask Merlin out, but knew that would be stupid before the case was over with, it would just increase the pressure on Merlin.

Merlin looked at Arthur "But that would mean I would be here for perhaps a couple of months, you must want your privacy back, I mean you haven't brought anyone back here besides the group since I moved in."

Arthur smirked it was cleat Merlin had no idea just how attracted he was to him. "I haven't got anyone Merlin, and I don't do one night stands. If I did have anyone you being here wouldn't stop me. Now stop being an idiot and drop it, you're staying here until it's all over"

Merlin rolled his eyes and with a shake of his head said "OK but I am going to pay you rent"

"You are already paying Morgana, I know that so shut up. We are family so it's all the same. Anyway you do more of the cooking than me"

"Only because you are useless, anyway I am here more. Well I was I'm back on proper shift pattern next week. Until the trial at least" Merlin added the last sentence as an afterthought. "But the minute the trial is over I'm moving out and giving you your life back"

"Deal" Arthur grinned, that suited him as soon as the trial was over he intended to ask Merlin on a date and he couldn't do that if Merlin was still living with him. Well not without it being awkward anyway.

The two men continued to rub along even if Arthur was taking more cold showers than normal. At least once a week but usually more Morgana would visit as would the gang. But it was a visit by one of the group that caused the most concern to Merlin. He was home alone one day when the doorbell rang. After the attack he was now more careful and looking through the peep hole he saw Cenred outside alone. Opening the door on the chain he peeped out "What can I do for you?" he asked

"Can I come in Merlin? Please…I want to explain something to you" seeing the doubt in Merlin's face he continued "I won't try anything I promise. Look please it is important"

Reluctantly Merlin took of the chain and opened the door. Then he walked to the kitchen and sat at the table. Somehow it seemed better than sitting in the lounge. Cenred sat down opposite Merlin he looked nervous. "Look Merlin I'm not sure how to say this" he paused looking at Merlin.

"Straight out is usually best" Merlin told him "Look if whatever it is just say it and go please" he still felt uncomfortable in the other man's presence and regretted letting him in. But he wasn't going to be a coward all his life he needed to get a grip.