Chapter Fifteen
Gwen stood nervously outside of Arthur's door, clutching some linens anxiously to herself. She had graciously accepted the position of being Arthur's maidservant when Uther had offered because she wanted to earn her keep. Since Morgana had left under awkward circumstances, Gwen had earned her wages doing odd jobs around the castle as she was needed. She was desperate to get back to real work, but she wasn't sure working for the object of her affection was the best decision.
Taking a deep breath, she knocked briskly and pushed open the door. Arthur sat on the edge of the bed. Shirtless, he was holding a piece of cloth, staring off into the middle distance.
Arthur sat, holding Merlin's scarf tight in his hand. Sighing, he rubbed his thumb slowly over the familiar fabric. It was all he had left of his stupid manservant. Why had he left him? He wondered. He was lost in thought when he heard a shrill eek from the door.
"Guinevere!" He gasped, jumping to his feet. Noticing that her eyes were fixated on his bare chest, he mumbled "Oh - uh - "
He looked across at her, noticing the blush shooting across her cheeks. Tossing Merlin's wrinkled scarf to the bed, he took a step forward.
"Guinevere." He repeated, softer this time. He reached out, and slowly took the linens from her arm, smirking gently when she let out a small gasp.
Arthur looked down into her wide eyes and almost felt a twinge of regret. Almost.
"Why don't you dine with me this afternoon?"