Chapter Three
The door burst open as Merlin rushed into the room. Gaius looked up from his work and said, "Merlin? You're home early." When Merlin ignored Gaius and silently made his way to his room, Gaius asked worriedly, "Merlin, what's wrong?"
Shutting the door behind him, Merlin flung himself onto his bed without an answer. Quietly, Gaius opened the door and crossed to sit next to Merlin. Gently rubbing circles on Merlin's back, he softly asked, "What is it, Merlin? You know you can tell me anything."
Taking a deep breath, Merlin said, "Gaius, I think there is something wrong with me."
"Merlin," Gaius began seriously, "Whatever could have brought this about? I know that there is nothing wrong with you. What would make you think such a thing?"
"It's Arthur, Gaius. I don't know what's happening to me. The way I feel about him - the way I see him - I don't think that it's the way I'm supposed to see the prince of Camelot, especially when I'm his servant." A tear slid down Merlin's cheek, "Gaius, I'm not normal. What is wrong with me?"
Wiping the tear from Merlin's face, Gaius gave a knowing smile. "Merlin, Merlin, Merlin. There is absolutely nothing wrong with you, don't ever think that again. What you are going through - it's nothing to be ashamed of. The heart chooses what it wants; sometimes we don't have control over it. Love, infatuation, attraction, whatever it may be; I'm sure it is something beautiful."
Merlin turned to look up at Gaius, his eyes red. "But Gaius - "
"Shh, Merlin, listen to me. You are more than just Arthur's servant, you are his protector, but most of all you are Arthur's friend. Deep down, you know that."
Merlin turned his head to the ground, his mind lost in thought. When they heard a knock on the door, Gaius gave Merlin a comforting pat on the back and went to see who was calling. He was only slightly surprised when he saw Arthur standing awkwardly on the other side of the door. Smiling pleasantly, he said, "Arthur! What can I do for you? You aren't feeling ill, I hope?"
"No, uh, Gaius. I was wondering if - er - rather I was hoping to talk to - well I just - is Merlin here?" The prince, clearly nervous, was stumbling over his words and staring guiltily at the floor.
"Yes he is here, Sire, but I am not certain that now is the best time to talk to him." Gaius said with a frown.
"I really just need to see him, Gaius." Arthur looked up into the physician's eyes, and Gaius could see that the prince was clearly distressed.
"Of course, Sire, he is up in his room."
Taking a deep breath, Arthur slowly crossed the room to the door on the other side. With another calming breath, he gently swung the door open.