The love between a king and his serving boy (merthur)

Chapter 17

Gaius's POV

Merlin didn't return home last night, but I'm sure he's okay, he always is, and with Morgana gone I can't think of anything that is a threat to him. He came home early in the morning as I was just getting out of bed. He seemed flustered and as if he had been running.

"Merlin, where were you? I was worried!" I spoke harshly to make sure he was truthful, he was a bad liar when stressed.

"I was um... Doing Arthur... No! I meant doing CHORES for Arthur, he gets me working so hard, it's like I do everything for him. I do actually, but I'm sorry and it won't happen again, it was Arthur's fault, he had me doing stuff for him all night... Erm the kind of work you wouldn't understand because you're not his servant and this was a servants job so don't bother asking me about it. Now I need to eat and then go and wash his duvet, because he.... Spilt stuff on it..." Merlin always rambles when he lies, and the truth was so obvious, and I'm not sure I quite approve of it, but I just went along with it to avoid further awkwardness and embarrassment.

"Yes, I'm sure kings often give their manservants chores that last all night, that's fine," I gave the flustered boy his breakfast and then watched him hurry off back to Arthur.

Merlin's POV

When I woke, all cuddled up with Arthur, I was a bit confused. But then the memorise of the night before flashed through my head and I chuckled. Had I stayed there all night? Gaius would be worried if he noticed me gone. I planned to run back and get into my chambers before Gaius woke and it'll be okay. However, I spent a couple of minutes trying to get out of the tight embrace without waking the king. It wasn't easy, but I managed to get out of the bed and dressing myself in my clothes which Arthur had flung across the room. I then noticed the white-ish stain on the bed so I made a mental note to wash it that day and then I finally hurried off back to Gaius.

I think the old man knew about last night, but he didn't say anything, so I just avoided eye contact. Then I began my day as the kings manservant.

"Merlin, do you remember princess Elaine? The girl my father wanted me to marry?" Arthur asked as I dressed him for the day, I nodded and grinned at the memory. "Well she is returning to Camelot and says that she may stay for a while. Maybe even up to 10 years."

"Why? I would've thought she was queen by now," I was confused. What on earth would be a reason for a queen to stay at Camelot for so long?

"She isn't queen yet. Her father is still alive. I believe that their land was invaded and they only have Camelot to go to for help. I want you to find them a servant each if that is okay. They are coming alone," I nodded and smiled at him and we just stayed there for a few seconds. Then he suddenly lifted me off my feet and twirled me around, making me squeal in shock, then he kissed me lightly on the cheek. His hands were gripping mine gently.

"I love you sire, I'll get to work right away," I pulled away and let go of his hands and smirked at him, "don't let anyone see that stain on your bed before I wash it. People might think you're doing something you shouldn't!"