Melanie went to work with a smile on her face the next morning. Her date last night with Gwain had gone exceptionally well.
"Good morning My Lady." She chirped, carrying a tray with the queens breakfast.
"You're on time today." Arthur commented.
"Of course, Sire." Melanie responded. "Punctuality is important."
"What, no Gwain this morning?" Merlin asked.
"Did Hunith teach you no manners?" Melanie retorted. "Like you were raised in a barn."
"Oh, come on. I'm interested to hear what's going on with you and Sir Gwain."
"I will get my sword Merlin. Don't think I won't."
"I like her." Arthur laughed.
"I aim to please Sire." Melanie giggled.
"I am intrigued." Gwen started. "How did it go with Sir Gwain last night?"
"Wonderfully."
"And that's all you have to share?" Gwen raised an eyebrow.
"Though I find your interest in my life flattering, I'm afraid I must keep this to myself."
"I understand."
"Come now." Merlin teased. "You can't share a moment?"
"Did I question you when you told me of Freya?" Melanie shot back. Merlin gave her a warning glance.
"Who's Freya?" Arthur asked. "Why did I not know about her?"
"Do not say a single word." Merlin warned quietly. "They have not accepted magic within the kingdom yet."
"What's the harm in telling him that you fell in love with a wandering stranger?" Melanie asked. "Except the fact that Gaius repeatedly told Arthur you were at the tavern when you were really seeing her." She leaned over to Merlin and whispered. "Don't worry. I will not tell them of your powers. I may be mean to you, but I'm not heartless."
"But now I must tell them of Freya." Merlin retorted.
"What's the harm in that? Just leave out the fact she was a Druid and you'll be fine."
"You will pay for this Melanie."
"Oh, I can't wait." She stopped whispering. "Just remember who put that cut on your leg when we were ten."
"What happened?" Gwen asked.
"Merlin and I were sparing. He let his guard down and I went to knock him to the ground. My sword slipped and left a nasty gash behind. Lucky my mother's a decent physician."
"I did not let my guard down!" Merlin argued.
"Yes, having a conversation with Will while sparing is always encouraged." Melanie smirked as Arthur burst into uncontrollable laughter.
"Are you done now?" Merlin asked.
"Lighten up Merlin." Arthur said. "It's all in good fun."
"Really, because I don't find it fun."
"Oh, go muck out the horses." Arthur ordered. Merlin huffed and left.