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“Sire, can I speak with you before leaving?” Merlin told after setting Arthur’s breakfast on the table, it was a cozy morning, somewhere in the beginning of fall. “Sure Merlin..?” Arthur told rather confused. “Sit down, you seem a bit off…” Arthur told and gestured to a chair which Merlin got himself into very slowly but still soon. “What is it Merlin?” Arthur asked in anticipation. “Sire I—“ Arthur cut Merlin off rather quickly. “Don’t call me Sire…” He sighed, “it’s me, Arthur, you can call me by my name.” He faintly smirked. “Ok.. Arthur… I have—“ Arthur suddenly cut him off. “Oh this? I know. Of course I know.” Arthur said. “Really?” Merlin asked. “Yes, I actually wanted to tell you that… I… I feel the same.” Arthur said and Merlin frowned. “About this.” Arthur gestured between them. “We’ll keep this between us until I am king at least but… I believe we are on the same page.” Arthur said. “Wow.” Merlin’s eyes widened and he looked at Arthur with pure joy. “I am so glad. I thought you’ll hate me…” Merlin looked at his feet, fidgeting with his fingers. “How could I possibly hate you Merlin? I could never hate you. I want you, I want this. I am glad you got the courage to tell me.” Merlin smiled for a moment before looking at Arthur oddly. “This?” He narrowed his eyes. “Engagement, marriage at some point. A relationship between us.” Arthur said and Merlin smirked, eyes open wide. “That is what you meant?!” Merlin asked. “Of course, isn’t it what you meant?” Arthur asked. “No! I wanted to tell you I have magic.” Merlin said and Arthur laughed. “Merlin, I already know it.” He said. “You knew?!” He frowned. “Of course I knew… You revealed it pretty early on in our relationship.” Arthur told. “With Gwen being blamed in sorcery.” He explained. “But you thought I was in love with her.” Merlin said. “No!” Arthur protested, “I just made Uther think that. Of course I knew you were telling the truth. Uther was blind to not see your homosexuality.” Arthur explained was again, heatedly. “Wait a second… So you, love me, back?” Merlin asked. “Of course!” Arthur said in frustration. “What about you?” He asked. “Of course I love you, you prat.” Merlin responded and the both looked at each other before bursting with laughter.