Arthur hoped to get chance to speak privately to Leon over the holiday period. He wasn't going to say anything to Merlin that would spoil his holiday; he knew how Merlin loved his Christmas's. Unfortunately he wasn't as good at hiding his feelings as Merlin, and the other man knew something was bothering him. That night when they had gone to bed Merlin tried to find out what was bothering Arthur but the other man insisted he was ok. This meant both men slept poorly.
The next morning while Merlin was out with the dogs and all the children Arthur took his opportunity to speak to Leon. He asked his brother in law to come to the office. He showed Leon the letter.
"When the holidays are over can you ask around and see if this is true please. I'm not going to tell Merlin until I know for sure."
"I don't need to ask I heard yesterday, I'm sorry I didn't tell you but I was going to wait until after the holidays. It seems your uncle has several independent witnesses who said they saw him in another part of the country when the police say he was doing the drug deal. They are saying the police fabricated the evidence. The senior policeman at the arrest has already been thrown out of the police for fabricating evidence, in another case, and they say he did the same in your uncle's case. I'm afraid to say their argument looks good on paper. It is going to the Court of Appeal to consider a retrial." Leon put his hand on Arthur's shoulder. "Look I've been asked to take on the prosecuting case, that's the only reason I know. I spoke to the Lord Chief Justice about the case, and he was happy for you to know the basics but no more. I'm not sure yet if I'm going to take the case. It might be best if I didn't"
Arthur was disappointed that this should all come up now. He knew mistakes were made but couldn't help but think Agravaine had been guilty. But he also had faith in the system and knew he would have to wait and see. In the meantime he needed to get back to Merlin and make sure he enjoyed himself.
As always Christmas day was busy and despite everything everyone did enjoy themselves. It was amazing the all the children still wanted to join them after all they were all growing up fast. They were all progressing well in their lives William was working in Oxford, as part of his practical placement in his training but was back in university in January. He was really enjoying his training. Both Miranda and Mordred were still on course in their university work and were both getting the top marks needed to progress in their career choice. Penny was half way through her apprenticeship to be a master baker. Tristan was working hard for his qualifications so he could train as an accountant and Elizabeth had decided she wanted to train as a nurse once she had finished college. Merlin missed having younger children about and told them all he wanted the next generation to start. This caused all the parents to shout at him.
The Christmas dinner was loud and noisy and as usual Finna and Gi managed to get fed tip bits under the table. Later they all watched the television together before settling down to play board games. Once they had all gone to bed and the two men were once more under the stars Merlin asked Arthur once again what was worrying him.
"And don't lie, we promised to always tell each other the truth remember."
"It's nothing for you to worry about honestly." Arthur tried to put Merlin off by cuddling into him and starting to kiss him.
"No kissing until I know" he said pulling away.
"Oh ok …..I had a letter from Agravaine…..he claims to have new evidence and is seeking a retrial. But it won't be for ages even if he does get one. I just didn't want to worry you." Arthur looked at Merlin in the soft light. "Please don't get yourself in a bad place over this."
"I won't as long as you tell me what's happening. It's the not knowing that's worse. Anyway he didn't actually do anything to me he was just not nice."
"Now can I kiss you?" Arthur said moving closer once more.
"Yes, since you've been good."