Chapter 3: The Best Man (The Wedding Date Remix)
Title: One wedding. No funeral. One unqualified catastrophe.
Chapter Three: The Best Man...
Author:
digthewriter
Pairing: Merlin/Arthur
Rating: NC-17
Word Count: Chapter 3: 5600. Entire fic: 18,500
Spoilers/Warnings: Modern!AU. Sexual Content. Pretend Relationship. Mention of past infidelity (not between Merlin/Arthur)
Notes: This is the final chapter for the fic.
(AO3 LINK HERE)
Once they were in River City, and all checked into their hotel rooms, Merlin barely left Arthur's side. The entire hotel was booked for the wedding guests, and Uther and Vivienne had even managed to take over the wine cellar - which was open to all the wedding invitees.
As the family started to pour in from all over, Arthur introduced Merlin as his boyfriend to each and every aunt, uncle, and cousin. He was surprised at what a good sport he was being, and Arthur had to wonder if Merlin was still treating this as a job, whereas, Arthur was starting to believe they were actually together.
When they returned to their room, Arthur collapsed on the bed, and Merlin was right next to him.
"You know what pisses me off?" Arthur asked, looking at the ceiling of their hotel room.
Merlin laced his fingers through Arthur's; Arthur could feel his face turning to look at him, but he didn't move. "I've been going off about myself all weekend. You've met my entire family, and yet, I don't know one thing about you."
"Hmm," Merlin said and turned his body completely to face Arthur. Arthur still didn't move. "I am actually a screenplay writer."
Arthur's eyes widened and he shifted his eyes to look at Merlin.
"I absolutely hate champagne, and I didn't want to freak you out by telling you my favourite drink is gin and tonic."
Arthur turned then, their hands still clasped together, as he stared down at them and then Merlin's eyes.
"I think I'd miss you even if we'd never met," Merlin said. His hand came up to cup Arthur's face.
"God, Merlin..." Arthur whispered, unsure he could trust his voice in that moment and pulled Merlin towards him. Merlin came on top of him willingly and straddled his hips. He rocked back and forth, the front of his jeans pressing against Arthur's cock. "This probably isn't the right time to discuss this but- when this is all over- do you think-?"
"Yes," Merlin said before he reached down and kissed Arthur again.
-=-=-
Arthur and Gwaine sat on the bench in the small park behind the River City hotel as they watched the ladies in one corner fussing over Morgana, and Uther in the other corner carefully watching Merlin. Merlin was oblivious to it all and was on the ground, in the grass, with half a dozen kids climbing all over him.
"He's managed to charm everyone here, hasn't he?" Gwaine asked, sounding disappointed.
"Why are you so upset about it? Did you want to be my date or something?"
"Well, you could have at least asked."
"I did ask you, you told me to hire someone."
"And you hired that!"
"Sorry, didn't realise Percy was still available. I could have asked him."
Gwaine gloomed but Arthur only grinned back. "Don't worry, he and Lance will be here later. You will have other things to get jealous about."
"What does that mean?"
"When he gets here, you know he'll get all the attention. All the women fawning over Morgana right now will be swooning over Percy, and I know you. You may be a big time solicitor, and make the toughest of the Police Inspectors cry on the stand, but you won't make a move on him. You didn't when we were fifteen, and you won't now."
"How do you even know he's gay?" Gwaine asked. "Maybe we can get Merlin to flirt with him first."
"No." Arthur shut that train of thought down immediately. "Merlin's not going to flirt with anyone."
"So he's it, then? Mr Perfect?"
Arthur shrugged.
"Please. I bet his cock bends to the side. It's got a bit of kink to it."
Arthur shook his head.
"Great, he's bloody perfect." Arthur had already told Gwaine about his time with Merlin, and how they'd managed to seal the deal, not as escort-client but as two blokes who really wanted each other. Three times.
Even though Gwaine may not have been completely convinced of Merlin's intentions, he seemed to be giving Arthur the benefit of the doubt.
"So are you going to talk to Percy tonight, or what?" Arthur asked, and right then, Merlin came running up to them.
"Hey. What did I miss?" Merlin asked, he wiped a bit of sweat off his forehead before coming behind the bench and placing his hands on Arthur's shoulders. As if on instinct, Arthur leaned into the touch and Merlin began to rub Arthur's shoulders.
"Trying to convince Gwaine to talk to Percy-"
"Oh, don't tell him!"
"He already knows," Arthur said and at the same time Merlin uttered, "I already know."
"You know, no one is around, you can drop the act," Gwaine said, and for a brief second, Merlin's hands stilled on Arthur's shoulders.
Arthur was about to retort when Leon came in holding a bottle of champagne and two flutes. Morgana's friends seemed to leave her side and rushed over to Leon.
"Has anyone seen my future wife? She'll kill me if I don't serve her first," Leon said, making his way towards Morgana's table and pouring her a drink. He grabbed the other flute and returned to Arthur, Merlin, and Gwaine.
"Have you guys ever had a fight?" Gwaine asked Leon. "A real honest-to-God fight, ever?"
"Yes, of course," Leon replied.
"Yeah, right," Gwaine said.
"Well, apparently, makeup sex is the best kind," Leon said, looking at Arthur and Merlin, and Arthur waited for him to go on. "Not that I'm ever going to find out."
They all laughed and Arthur looked up at Merlin, who leaned down and kissed him on the lips.
"Oh, between the three of you-" Gwaine got up, looking disgusted, but Arthur could tell he was only teasing. "I'm going to need a strong drink. Merlin, can I get you a gin and tonic?" he asked, winking.
"Yeah, sounds great, mate," replied Merlin.
"Percy will be here in two hours!" Arthur shouted at him, as Gwaine walked away. "And I'll have a drink too, thanks. You know, your best friend."
Leon came over and took a seat next to Arthur as they all continued laughing at Gwaine. Merlin had moved on from Arthur's shoulders, running his fingers through Arthur's hair, when Arthur inadvertently let out a low groan.
"You know there are children present," Leon teased.
"Like you and Morgana ever keep your hands off each other long enough-"
"Talking about me, are we?" Morgana appeared in front of Arthur, blocking the sun from Arthur's eyes, as she stood in front of him.
"And the witch appears," Arthur teased. "Were your ears burning?"
"We were just talking about Percy, actually," Leon said, patting his knee as if inviting Morgana to come and sit in his lap.
"Arthur, can you move?" she demanded.
"What for? You seem to have a perfectly good seat that Leon's offering."
"Well, I'll have you know, since tomorrow is the wedding, and we are not spending the night together, there can be no...funny business from now until the night of the wedding," she said in a haughty tone, as she crossed her arms and glared down at Arthur.
"What? You're not serious-"
"Leon..." Morgana whined.
"Fine, you're right, dear," Leon said.
Arthur shook his head and as he was about to make fun of Leon for being wrapped around Morgana's little finger, his mobile chimed. "Saved by the bell," he said, and opened his phone to read the text.
"Well, I suppose you're both in luck," Arthur said, standing up. "Vivienne wants me to go down to the wine cellar and make sure we have enough of the Château Cheval Blanc she wants to serve with lunch. If we don't then we'll need to make a wine run to the distributor that sells to the hotel."
"Oh good," Morgana said, pushing Arthur out of the way and settling herself next to Leon.
"Just be careful, Morgana, there are children present." Arthur winked at her and then smiled at Merlin and walked away from them all. It was nice to feel a bit useful, and he was glad for the text he'd received from Vivienne. He considered maybe asking Merlin to tag along with him, to get a bit of snogging done in the private cellar, but when he turned around, Merlin was already back with the kids.
When Arthur arrived at the cellar, he found Cenred there. He was looking over the bottles as well, carrying two.
"Going to drink all of that own your own?" Arthur asked in a teasing tone, and was surprised to find himself so relaxed around Cenred. No doubt, it was all Merlin's doing.
"Thinking about it," Cenred said, laughing nervously. "That and well...And you know, I thought perhaps you...Bollocks. Sorry." He dropped the bottle he was holding when Arthur reached down and caught it just in time.
"Arthur, I had no idea this would be so difficult. I just feel like I owe you an explanation."
"Cenred, relax. It’s all right, okay? I promise." He smiled at Cenred who looked thoroughly confused.
"And I should probably admit...I brought Merlin with me to torture you, slowly, for the entire wedding weekend. But then, I don't know, something happened and now...I hope this doesn't hurt your feelings but I'm just sick of you and me. Of our whole story. So come on, let’s just go upstairs and eat some tiramisu. And have a gin and tonic."
Arthur smiled at Cenred, unsure of what exactly Cenred wanted to explain but certain that, whatever it was, he wasn't interested. He turned to leave the cellar, deciding to tell Vivienne it really wasn't worth counting the bottles of Château Cheval Blanc the cellar carried. He and Merlin wouldn't mind making the drive anyway. In that moment, all Arthur wanted to do was see Merlin.
"I slept with your sister."
Arthur had started to walk away, but now he froze up. He took in a few deep breaths, and turned to face Cenred. "I'm sorry?" he asked, his voice shaking.
"Well, I shagged Morgana, two years ago. That's why I broke it off with you. And then after you left, sod it, we kept at it like rabbits, until we both realised it was absolutely mad and, obviously, morally wrong." He stopped to take a breath and ran a hand through his hair. "And then that was it. But when Leon proposed, I realised... I'm in love with her."
The bottle Arthur was holding slipped through his hand and hit the floor. He didn't even look down to check if it had broken.
"Good Lord, Arthur, say something, please."
Arthur ran out of the cellar, unsure of what to do, or how he was feeling. Cenred had slept with Morgana. Morgana had slept with Cenred while Cenred and Arthur were still together?
Arthur stepped out in the open and ran right into Gwaine. Gwaine must have read whatever it was on Arthur's face and came rushing to him. When he spotted Cenred, Gwaine said, "Oh God. He's told you, hasn't he?"
"You knew?" Arthur asked Gwaine in disbelief and they both turned to look where Morgana was walking, hand in hand with Leon.
"Arthur. Arthur, are you okay?" Morgana asked, but Arthur didn't reply. He started to walk towards Leon. "Oh dear, Arthur. Please don't say anything."
When Merlin saw Arthur, he looked like he'd been waiting for him. His smile fell immediately and he rushed to Arthur's aid. Arthur felt safe in Merlin's arms. Merlin was holding him as if he already knew what it was that bothered Arthur. But, how could he?
Arthur turned to look at Merlin. "Arthur, I'm so sorry."
What? Why was Merlin sorry?
"I can't believe you told him," said Morgana, and Merlin released a sigh as if he had any right to be exasperated.
Arthur pushed Merlin away. The little of his heart that'd been left had just been shattered. He was completely broken.
"What's going on?" Leon asked.
"Nothing," replied Morgana.
"It doesn't look like nothing..." was the last thing Arthur heard before he ran away from the group and made his way to...anywhere...anywhere that wasn't the hotel, his family, the fucking city.
Of course, Merlin was chasing after him. It was just his luck. Just like the rain that'd started pouring down on them.
"Leave me alone. You knew and you didn't tell me." Arthur ran deeper into the park behind the hotel where there were no people. Everyone had scurried away because of the downpour.
"Arthur, can you wait one second?"
"When did she even tell you?" Arthur asked, wondering why Morgana had told Merlin, of all the people. "I can't believe I trusted you."
"Come on. You've got to stop running," Merlin said, catching up to Arthur, who turned around and stared down at him.
"How could you not have told me?"
"What did you expect me to say?"
"You let me make a fool of myself. You lied to me, but I guess I shouldn't be surprised because that's what you do. How much did she pay you to keep it a secret?"
"Arthur..." Merlin's tone was firm, as if he were warning Arthur, but Arthur didn't care.
"That's who you are. You're a liar."
"You're judging me? That's a good one," Merlin said and Arthur scoffed. "You're going to point a finger at me, the bloke you hired to pretend to be your boyfriend?"
In that moment, whatever love Arthur felt for Merlin had disappeared. How dare he?
"You're right. I was so desperate to make everyone believe I was happy so I paid a two month's salary for a lie." He shook his head in disbelief, he wanted to stop talking, but couldn't help himself. "And, at the end of the day, the only one who ended up falling for it was me."
Merlin's eyes widened then and it looked as though he were going to say something but Arthur cut him off. "I wish I could say it was worth it."
"Go ahead, Arthur, hate me," Merlin said. He took a step closer to Arthur, and Arthur stepped back. "I think you're running out of steam on this whole Cenred thing anyhow."
"What does-"
"Maybe now you'll be able to hold on to this long enough to ruin your next relationship!" Merlin grimaced and Arthur didn't know if it was at him or at his own words. He shook his head, turned around, and walked away.
Arthur wanted to reach out then. He wanted to stop Merlin, but didn't. He let the rain pour over him, and stood there, until Merlin was far gone, and Arthur couldn't stand the cold anymore. He slowly walked back to the hotel room.
By the time Arthur reached the entrance to the hotel, the rain had stopped. He saw Leon chasing after Merlin, who had his bags in tow.
"Merlin, where are you going?"
"Don't worry, Leon. I'm just going to check into the hotel down the street. I called them, they have a room available."
"Merlin, you can't. There's a room-"
"It's fine, Leon."
They faced each other, and Arthur hid in the shadows; he didn't want them to know he was there.
"Look, I don't know what's going on with you two but I'm sure you'll work it out," Leon said, but Merlin continued to frown.
"You couldn't be more perfect if Arthur had picked you out of a catalogue."
Merlin smiled at that. It was a sad little smile, and it seemed to tug at Arthur’s heart. Arthur still remained quiet.
"Take the car, at least. So you don’t have to walk to the hotel."
"Thanks, Leon. You’re a good guy. Just don’t forget it."
And as Merlin drove away, and Leon watched him go, Arthur snuck into the hotel and ran up to his room.
Arthur had been in his room for all of five minutes, and had just grabbed a towel and started to dry himself off when there was a knock on the door.
Typical Morgana. She didn't wait to be asked to come in and just opened the door.
"Hey," she said.
Arthur took in a deep breath, steeled himself, and turned around. "Hi," he said.
"Listen, Arthur. I'm just ... I wanted to thank you for not saying anything to Leon about... about what happened today." Arthur nodded but didn't say anything. He had nothing to say.
"I want to tell him, just not the night before our wedding. You know, with these things, timing is everything."
Arthur put his hands in his pockets and balled them up in fists. He was just about done with Morgan's shit. "You're right, Morgana. Completely! You should time it right, so that when Leon hears you repeatedly screwed his best friend, he won't feel like the world is collapsing and there's no escape because you tricked him into marrying you."
"Arthur..."
"Don't worry, Morgana. Your wedding will be perfect. Tomorrow, I'll keep a smile on my face, I'll say all the right things, and you'll deal with Leon when you're ready. But right now..." Morgana took a step towards him and Arthur gestured for her to stop. "But right now, tonight, I'm not going to pretend it's okay. Now kindly get out of my bloody room, and next time, don't act like you fucking own it. You have no right anymore."
Morgana immediately started to cry, but to his relief she turned around and left the room. Arthur shook his head in disbelief, and then cursed himself for being surprised at all. It was Morgana, she was always going to be the drama queen.
Arthur took off all his wet clothes and collapsed on the bed. He turned from one side to another, hating himself of how he'd already started to miss Merlin.
Ten minutes later, there was another knock on the door, and Arthur groaned. "Go away," he yelled.
"Come on, Arthur, open up."
Arthur grumbled to himself, but he reached out for a shirt and some trousers and went to answer the door. Gwaine was standing on the other side with a bottle of Jack in hand. "Need some company?"
Arthur nodded and let him in.
"Check out, did he?"
"I suppose. He has the decency to know to keep his distance."
"Arthur, I'm your best friend, you can't be all cross with me forever."
"I'm not cross with you," Arthur said, plopping himself on the bed and Gwaine came and sat down next to him. "Give me that." Arthur reached for the bottle as Gwaine brought out two glasses from his jacket pocket.
"By the way," Gwaine drawled as Arthur poured them both a double shot.
"Yeah?"
"I said hello to Percy." Gwaine clinked his glass with Arthur's and took a sip of his drink.
"Oh, brilliant. Just make sure Morgana hasn't slept with him before you do anything."
-=-=-
"So why did you let him go?" Uther asked as they waited outside the chapel for the wedding party to arrive.
"It's complicated, Father." Arthur's fingers twitched and regardless of how hung over he was, he still wished he had a drink.
"Well, most things are." Uther patted Arthur on the shoulder, then he reached for his flask, and offered it to his son. Arthur took a swig, and then Uther did too. "Wouldn't have worked out anyway."
"Why?" Arthur asked, hating how much he cared.
"The boy seemed a bit obsessed with you, if you ask me." Arthur gave his father a confused look. "I heard him telling Vivienne what he thought of you when he first laid his eyes upon you. A bit of a romantic for my taste-"
"What did he say?"
Uther shrugged. "Something about you wore this red button-down shirt, no tie, with a blazer. And you were holding your drink, but not really drinking from it. As if hiding behind that glass gave you a confidence-he seemed intrigued by your actions, the way you carried yourself- Sort of the same stuff he said to me when we first met. But like I said, bit of a sap. Sounded like a girl. No wonder he got on so well with Morgana."
"At the Wonder Wanderer mixer?" Arthur asked, bemused. How did Merlin know-
"Yeah, that's where you met, wasn't it? I mean, the fact you didn't wear a tie with your suit, and he found it appealing should just tell me everything I need to know. You need a man who knows how to dress sharp-"
"Father."
"Well, he has been dressing well the entire time he was here, so-"
"He was at the mixer. He saw me."
"I'd reckon so. Why are you so confused, Arthur? What did you smoke this morning?"
"Father-"
"But it doesn't really matter what I think, though, does it? No matter how I try to influence you, you've always ended up doing what you've wanted to do. So wear a tie, don't wear a tie, you have to tell me one thing, Arthur?"
"What's that?"
"Is he the man for you?"
Uther's expression was fierce and Arthur was absolutely shocked by his father's words. His heart beat fast because the question was a real one, and so was the expression in has father's eyes. Uther saw right through Arthur, knew he wanted Merlin, and was all right with it?
Arthur nodded. Not sure if he would be able to trust his own voice at the moment.
Uther smiled at him then. It was unlike anything Arthur had ever seen, or experienced. The warmth in his eyes nearly made Arthur's heart melt.
"Then go and get him."
Arthur grinned at his father and got up on his feet. He didn't know what to do first. Wheels. He needed wheels. Wait, they'd all been driven to the city so there wasn't anyone-no there was Lance. He and Percy had come on their own so Lance had a car.
"Actually, we came in Percy's car," Lance said, when Arthur asked him.
"Percy?" Arthur asked, feeling defeated already.
"Here, take my keys." Percy brought out his car keys from his trouser pockets and handed them to Arthur. "It's the dark blue Nissan-"
"Thanks!" Arthur said, and Percy nodded. "Oh, and talk to Gwaine!"
Arthur didn't want for a reply as he found Percy's car, started it, and was out of hotel parking lot in record time. He wasn't entirely sure where Merlin was staying, but figured the closest hotel to the River City hotel was probably the best bet. He rushed to the reception desk, heart pounding, almost out of breath and asked for Merlin.
"Merlin Emrys?"
"I'm sorry, sir, but it seems Mr Emrys has checked out."
"Oh. Can you tell me how long-"
"I'm sorry, I can't. I can't divulge guest information without-"
"Fine," Arthur said. His heart sank, his heartbeat slowed, and his legs took him back to Percy's car. It was as if all of a sudden he was on autopilot, and he drove back to the River City hotel without really thinking about it.
When he parked the car in the same spot he'd found it, nothing look like it'd changed. Except...Vivienne came rushing to him, looking completely distraught.
"What's the matter?"
"It's Leon. He's left."
"Left. Why?" Arthur's eyes widened. Had Morgana actually told him the truth? "Where's Cenred?"
"Yeah, that's the thing. Leon sort of went chasing after Cenred. He looked like he was out for blood-"
"How's Morgana taking it?"
"She's in the bridal room. Obviously, a mess. Arthur..." She paused to give herself a moment. "I think she means it this time. She's actually upset."
Arthur nodded at Vivienne and patted her shoulder. "Here's my mobile. Call Merlin. I'm not sure he'll answer. But if anyone can fix this, he can. If he doesn't pick up, text him."
Arthur left Vivienne behind and ran towards the bridal dressing room. When he knocked on the door and softly opened it, he found Morgana with her face buried in her hands. "Gana, you all right?" Arthur rolled his eyes at himself; of course she wasn't all right.
"I did it. I mean, I told the truth-"
"You didn't have to. If you loved him so much..." Arthur said softly. He came and sat across from her, taking her hand in his. "I know I was angry before, but I didn't want this for you. You two could have been-"
"You were right. I couldn't lie to him. Not about this. Not for forever." She squeezed his hand and then retrieved hers to grab another tissue. As she dabbed her eyes, she spoke again. "I feel better though. I couldn't live a lie. I can't be the same person as I was before. I shouldn't have done what I did to you and I don't deserve-"
"Stop that," Arthur said, edging himself closer to Morgana as he took her head and rested it on his chest.
"I'll ruin your shirt," she said.
"It's okay. I am your brother, and that's what it's meant for."
They stayed like that for a while, quiet, as Arthur held her and Morgana gently cried. Arthur couldn't help it and let his thoughts wander over to Merlin. Where would he be headed now? He had Leon's car; was he going to drop it off before taking a taxi to the train station? Or would he simply fly out of River City to London? It was a short flight, barely an hour, but it did beat taking the train from River City to Camelot to London.
He didn't know how long they waited for, but eventually, Morgana's sobs died down, and she began to put herself together.
"I should fix my makeup before addressing the guests-"
"Morgana, you don't have to. We can-"
"No," she said, standing up. "It's my mess. I'll clean it up."
"They're back!" Vivienne said, sounding frantic. She came barging into the room, her hair all over the place.
"Who?"
"Leon and Merlin!" she exclaimed. "They're standing outside speaking to your father-"
"I'll go and check. Viv, get her ready, okay?"
Arthur's heart rate caught up with the excitement of the moment. Was Leon really back? And was the wedding still on? And equally, if not more importantly, had Merlin forgiven Arthur? Sure, he'd not yet had an opportunity to apologise, but Merlin seemed to know what made Arthur tick more than Arthur did-so he'd know-
As Arthur got to the gates of the chapel, he saw Leon running towards him. "She's still going to want to marry me, isn't she?"
"Of course, mate!" Arthur said as Leon brushed past him.
He turned to look at Merlin who was running behind Leon, only a few feet away.
"I have to go!" Merlin said, stopped to look at Arthur. His eyes falling on Arthur's lips before they locked with Arthur's. "I'm the Best Man."
"What? How did you-how did you manage that?"
Merlin shrugged. "I was on my way to the train station. I was going to call Leon from there to let him know where his car was but...I couldn't make it. I couldn't leave. You."
"Oh?" Merlin smiled at him, and Arthur grabbed him by the back of his neck and pulled him in for a kiss. "Why not?"
Merlin kissed him again. He wrapped his arms around Arthur's waist and kept him close. "I couldn't leave this. I realised I'd rather spend my days fighting with you, than spend my nights making love to someone else."
Arthur opened his mouth to say something, but Vivienne's voice cut him off.
"Arthur, come on!"
"Later," Merlin said, kissing Arthur's cheek, and running into the chapel.
=-=-=
The decorators had outdone themselves, as the reception hall was sparkling. The pristine three-tier cake sat decorated and untouched in one corner, and the gifts were arranged beautifully in the other. And in the centre of it all were the happy couple.
Morgana had her eyes closed as she slow danced with Leon, resting her head on his shoulder. Arthur caught Leon’s eye and he gently nodded to him once, before spinning Morgana around.
Merlin raked his fingers through Arthur’s hair as they danced not too far away from the bride and groom, keeping their distance, and their attention from everyone else. It was Morgana’s day, and Arthur was happy to be semi-hiding in the corner with Merlin. He would be willing to be anywhere with Merlin.
"So what did you say to him?" Arthur asked when Merlin brushed his cheek against Arthur’s. He smelled wonderful. It was more Merlin’s scent than the cologne he was wearing that intoxicated Arthur.
"Hmm?"
"Leon. Vivienne told me you’d answered the phone when she called you. That you went to fetch him."
Merlin smiled, his ears turning red, before he spoke. "I told him he could spend a lifetime having make up sex…"
It was so unexpected Arthur couldn’t help but throw his head back and give a bark of laugh. Everyone in the room turned to look at them, and then he buried his face in Merlin’s neck as Merlin started to snicker as well.
"That ought to do it," Arthur said to Merlin. "God, how did you end up being so bloody perfect?"
"I’m not that perfect," Merlin said. "If I were, Dragonworks Publishing would actually pick up the play I’ve been writing-"
"So it’s true. You were at the event, and you did see me." Merlin nodded his reply. "Why didn’t you tell me that from before? Why did you let me believe you were on the job-"
"I was on the job," Merlin said. "I was an escort there, but I was also working for myself. Arthur, there’s a reason I only escort women…"
A pang of jealously went through Arthur and he pulled Merlin a bit closer, as if, staking a claim on him right then and now was going to solve all his insecurities.
"Okay, let me rephrase that…there’s a reason, when I was an escort, I only worked with women."
Arthur eased up a bit then, and smiled. "What’s that?"
"I got invited to the most interesting parties, and no matter how much the client wanted to sleep with me, I actually wouldn’t. I don’t shag my clients, I’ve told you that. That’s why I was afraid when the agency asked me to do this so last minute-"
"Did you know it was me? I mean when you saw me-"
"No…" Merlin chuckled softly, and he gave that smile again which made Arthur’s heart melt. "I couldn’t believe my luck. I hadn’t been able to get you out of my head and then there you were-and I was supposed to pretend to be your boyfriend and have the freedom to kiss you whenever I wanted. It was awful to have you so close and not be able to be with you."
"Well, that didn’t last very long."
"Is that a bad thing? I mean, do you think I overstepped-"
"No, Merlin. Trust me. Lucas getting sick was probably the best thing that could have happened. To both of us. And I…I’d like to take you out on a date."
Merlin cupped Arthur’s face and leaned close, pressing his lips against Arthur’s, before he started to bite and lick on Arthur’s lower lip. He bit the inside of his cheek as if stopping himself from doing more when he asked, "When do we start?"
"Tonight? Would you like to go to dinner with me?"
Merlin's face grew serious, and took in a deep breath before speaking, "Yes. But I think you should know…"
"Yeah?"
"I don’t have sex on the first date." Merlin bit his lower lip as if he were trying to stop himself from laughing. "Oh, and I'd like to pay. Just so we're on the same page." He winked then, and Arthur shook his head.
"It's never going to be dull with you, is it?"
"Nope," Merlin said.
"So, do you think we could maybe get a pre-date shag since we're not going to have one later?"
Merlin seemed to think it over. "Hmm. I suppose that can be arranged, Mr Pendragon."
Arthur grinned. "Oh, and I think there's something you should know about me though."
"What's that?"
"I'm known to do favours for sex. So if you want your play published...You best bring your A-game."
"Arthur, I couldn't..."
"All I'm saying is that I'll get a meeting arranged with an editor. Whatever happens after that is out of my hands."
"Are you sure? I mean, I was only kidding-"
"Hey..." Arthur placed a finger on Merlin's lips. "It's what boyfriends are for. Right?"
"Real boyfriends," Merlin said with a shrug. "I suppose I have to do something as I'm getting out of the business."
Arthur kissed him again then. Their bodies pressed together, and Arthur knew that he should probably stay. Wait for the bride and groom to cut the cake, but he didn't care. Now that Morgana and Leon's life was settled, he couldn't wait to start his with Merlin.
"Well, let's get the favours started then..." Merlin grabbed Arthur's hand and led him out of the room. As they made down the long corridor and out to the parking lot to walk back to River City hotel, they found two men tucked in the corner, snogging like a couple of teenagers.
"Is that…?" Merlin started to ask, when the two men turned around. Faces red, lips swollen.
Percy and Gwaine. Yep. They were.
THE END.
This entry was originally posted at http://digthewriter.dreamwidth.org/447563.html. Please comment anywhere you'd like. Thanks for reading
Chapter Three: The Best Man...
Author:
digthewriter
Pairing: Merlin/Arthur
Rating: NC-17
Word Count: Chapter 3: 5600. Entire fic: 18,500
Spoilers/Warnings: Modern!AU. Sexual Content. Pretend Relationship. Mention of past infidelity (not between Merlin/Arthur)
Notes: This is the final chapter for the fic.
(AO3 LINK HERE)
Once they were in River City, and all checked into their hotel rooms, Merlin barely left Arthur's side. The entire hotel was booked for the wedding guests, and Uther and Vivienne had even managed to take over the wine cellar - which was open to all the wedding invitees.
As the family started to pour in from all over, Arthur introduced Merlin as his boyfriend to each and every aunt, uncle, and cousin. He was surprised at what a good sport he was being, and Arthur had to wonder if Merlin was still treating this as a job, whereas, Arthur was starting to believe they were actually together.
When they returned to their room, Arthur collapsed on the bed, and Merlin was right next to him.
"You know what pisses me off?" Arthur asked, looking at the ceiling of their hotel room.
Merlin laced his fingers through Arthur's; Arthur could feel his face turning to look at him, but he didn't move. "I've been going off about myself all weekend. You've met my entire family, and yet, I don't know one thing about you."
"Hmm," Merlin said and turned his body completely to face Arthur. Arthur still didn't move. "I am actually a screenplay writer."
Arthur's eyes widened and he shifted his eyes to look at Merlin.
"I absolutely hate champagne, and I didn't want to freak you out by telling you my favourite drink is gin and tonic."
Arthur turned then, their hands still clasped together, as he stared down at them and then Merlin's eyes.
"I think I'd miss you even if we'd never met," Merlin said. His hand came up to cup Arthur's face.
"God, Merlin..." Arthur whispered, unsure he could trust his voice in that moment and pulled Merlin towards him. Merlin came on top of him willingly and straddled his hips. He rocked back and forth, the front of his jeans pressing against Arthur's cock. "This probably isn't the right time to discuss this but- when this is all over- do you think-?"
"Yes," Merlin said before he reached down and kissed Arthur again.
-=-=-
Arthur and Gwaine sat on the bench in the small park behind the River City hotel as they watched the ladies in one corner fussing over Morgana, and Uther in the other corner carefully watching Merlin. Merlin was oblivious to it all and was on the ground, in the grass, with half a dozen kids climbing all over him.
"He's managed to charm everyone here, hasn't he?" Gwaine asked, sounding disappointed.
"Why are you so upset about it? Did you want to be my date or something?"
"Well, you could have at least asked."
"I did ask you, you told me to hire someone."
"And you hired that!"
"Sorry, didn't realise Percy was still available. I could have asked him."
Gwaine gloomed but Arthur only grinned back. "Don't worry, he and Lance will be here later. You will have other things to get jealous about."
"What does that mean?"
"When he gets here, you know he'll get all the attention. All the women fawning over Morgana right now will be swooning over Percy, and I know you. You may be a big time solicitor, and make the toughest of the Police Inspectors cry on the stand, but you won't make a move on him. You didn't when we were fifteen, and you won't now."
"How do you even know he's gay?" Gwaine asked. "Maybe we can get Merlin to flirt with him first."
"No." Arthur shut that train of thought down immediately. "Merlin's not going to flirt with anyone."
"So he's it, then? Mr Perfect?"
Arthur shrugged.
"Please. I bet his cock bends to the side. It's got a bit of kink to it."
Arthur shook his head.
"Great, he's bloody perfect." Arthur had already told Gwaine about his time with Merlin, and how they'd managed to seal the deal, not as escort-client but as two blokes who really wanted each other. Three times.
Even though Gwaine may not have been completely convinced of Merlin's intentions, he seemed to be giving Arthur the benefit of the doubt.
"So are you going to talk to Percy tonight, or what?" Arthur asked, and right then, Merlin came running up to them.
"Hey. What did I miss?" Merlin asked, he wiped a bit of sweat off his forehead before coming behind the bench and placing his hands on Arthur's shoulders. As if on instinct, Arthur leaned into the touch and Merlin began to rub Arthur's shoulders.
"Trying to convince Gwaine to talk to Percy-"
"Oh, don't tell him!"
"He already knows," Arthur said and at the same time Merlin uttered, "I already know."
"You know, no one is around, you can drop the act," Gwaine said, and for a brief second, Merlin's hands stilled on Arthur's shoulders.
Arthur was about to retort when Leon came in holding a bottle of champagne and two flutes. Morgana's friends seemed to leave her side and rushed over to Leon.
"Has anyone seen my future wife? She'll kill me if I don't serve her first," Leon said, making his way towards Morgana's table and pouring her a drink. He grabbed the other flute and returned to Arthur, Merlin, and Gwaine.
"Have you guys ever had a fight?" Gwaine asked Leon. "A real honest-to-God fight, ever?"
"Yes, of course," Leon replied.
"Yeah, right," Gwaine said.
"Well, apparently, makeup sex is the best kind," Leon said, looking at Arthur and Merlin, and Arthur waited for him to go on. "Not that I'm ever going to find out."
They all laughed and Arthur looked up at Merlin, who leaned down and kissed him on the lips.
"Oh, between the three of you-" Gwaine got up, looking disgusted, but Arthur could tell he was only teasing. "I'm going to need a strong drink. Merlin, can I get you a gin and tonic?" he asked, winking.
"Yeah, sounds great, mate," replied Merlin.
"Percy will be here in two hours!" Arthur shouted at him, as Gwaine walked away. "And I'll have a drink too, thanks. You know, your best friend."
Leon came over and took a seat next to Arthur as they all continued laughing at Gwaine. Merlin had moved on from Arthur's shoulders, running his fingers through Arthur's hair, when Arthur inadvertently let out a low groan.
"You know there are children present," Leon teased.
"Like you and Morgana ever keep your hands off each other long enough-"
"Talking about me, are we?" Morgana appeared in front of Arthur, blocking the sun from Arthur's eyes, as she stood in front of him.
"And the witch appears," Arthur teased. "Were your ears burning?"
"We were just talking about Percy, actually," Leon said, patting his knee as if inviting Morgana to come and sit in his lap.
"Arthur, can you move?" she demanded.
"What for? You seem to have a perfectly good seat that Leon's offering."
"Well, I'll have you know, since tomorrow is the wedding, and we are not spending the night together, there can be no...funny business from now until the night of the wedding," she said in a haughty tone, as she crossed her arms and glared down at Arthur.
"What? You're not serious-"
"Leon..." Morgana whined.
"Fine, you're right, dear," Leon said.
Arthur shook his head and as he was about to make fun of Leon for being wrapped around Morgana's little finger, his mobile chimed. "Saved by the bell," he said, and opened his phone to read the text.
"Well, I suppose you're both in luck," Arthur said, standing up. "Vivienne wants me to go down to the wine cellar and make sure we have enough of the Château Cheval Blanc she wants to serve with lunch. If we don't then we'll need to make a wine run to the distributor that sells to the hotel."
"Oh good," Morgana said, pushing Arthur out of the way and settling herself next to Leon.
"Just be careful, Morgana, there are children present." Arthur winked at her and then smiled at Merlin and walked away from them all. It was nice to feel a bit useful, and he was glad for the text he'd received from Vivienne. He considered maybe asking Merlin to tag along with him, to get a bit of snogging done in the private cellar, but when he turned around, Merlin was already back with the kids.
When Arthur arrived at the cellar, he found Cenred there. He was looking over the bottles as well, carrying two.
"Going to drink all of that own your own?" Arthur asked in a teasing tone, and was surprised to find himself so relaxed around Cenred. No doubt, it was all Merlin's doing.
"Thinking about it," Cenred said, laughing nervously. "That and well...And you know, I thought perhaps you...Bollocks. Sorry." He dropped the bottle he was holding when Arthur reached down and caught it just in time.
"Arthur, I had no idea this would be so difficult. I just feel like I owe you an explanation."
"Cenred, relax. It’s all right, okay? I promise." He smiled at Cenred who looked thoroughly confused.
"And I should probably admit...I brought Merlin with me to torture you, slowly, for the entire wedding weekend. But then, I don't know, something happened and now...I hope this doesn't hurt your feelings but I'm just sick of you and me. Of our whole story. So come on, let’s just go upstairs and eat some tiramisu. And have a gin and tonic."
Arthur smiled at Cenred, unsure of what exactly Cenred wanted to explain but certain that, whatever it was, he wasn't interested. He turned to leave the cellar, deciding to tell Vivienne it really wasn't worth counting the bottles of Château Cheval Blanc the cellar carried. He and Merlin wouldn't mind making the drive anyway. In that moment, all Arthur wanted to do was see Merlin.
"I slept with your sister."
Arthur had started to walk away, but now he froze up. He took in a few deep breaths, and turned to face Cenred. "I'm sorry?" he asked, his voice shaking.
"Well, I shagged Morgana, two years ago. That's why I broke it off with you. And then after you left, sod it, we kept at it like rabbits, until we both realised it was absolutely mad and, obviously, morally wrong." He stopped to take a breath and ran a hand through his hair. "And then that was it. But when Leon proposed, I realised... I'm in love with her."
The bottle Arthur was holding slipped through his hand and hit the floor. He didn't even look down to check if it had broken.
"Good Lord, Arthur, say something, please."
Arthur ran out of the cellar, unsure of what to do, or how he was feeling. Cenred had slept with Morgana. Morgana had slept with Cenred while Cenred and Arthur were still together?
Arthur stepped out in the open and ran right into Gwaine. Gwaine must have read whatever it was on Arthur's face and came rushing to him. When he spotted Cenred, Gwaine said, "Oh God. He's told you, hasn't he?"
"You knew?" Arthur asked Gwaine in disbelief and they both turned to look where Morgana was walking, hand in hand with Leon.
"Arthur. Arthur, are you okay?" Morgana asked, but Arthur didn't reply. He started to walk towards Leon. "Oh dear, Arthur. Please don't say anything."
When Merlin saw Arthur, he looked like he'd been waiting for him. His smile fell immediately and he rushed to Arthur's aid. Arthur felt safe in Merlin's arms. Merlin was holding him as if he already knew what it was that bothered Arthur. But, how could he?
Arthur turned to look at Merlin. "Arthur, I'm so sorry."
What? Why was Merlin sorry?
"I can't believe you told him," said Morgana, and Merlin released a sigh as if he had any right to be exasperated.
Arthur pushed Merlin away. The little of his heart that'd been left had just been shattered. He was completely broken.
"What's going on?" Leon asked.
"Nothing," replied Morgana.
"It doesn't look like nothing..." was the last thing Arthur heard before he ran away from the group and made his way to...anywhere...anywhere that wasn't the hotel, his family, the fucking city.
Of course, Merlin was chasing after him. It was just his luck. Just like the rain that'd started pouring down on them.
"Leave me alone. You knew and you didn't tell me." Arthur ran deeper into the park behind the hotel where there were no people. Everyone had scurried away because of the downpour.
"Arthur, can you wait one second?"
"When did she even tell you?" Arthur asked, wondering why Morgana had told Merlin, of all the people. "I can't believe I trusted you."
"Come on. You've got to stop running," Merlin said, catching up to Arthur, who turned around and stared down at him.
"How could you not have told me?"
"What did you expect me to say?"
"You let me make a fool of myself. You lied to me, but I guess I shouldn't be surprised because that's what you do. How much did she pay you to keep it a secret?"
"Arthur..." Merlin's tone was firm, as if he were warning Arthur, but Arthur didn't care.
"That's who you are. You're a liar."
"You're judging me? That's a good one," Merlin said and Arthur scoffed. "You're going to point a finger at me, the bloke you hired to pretend to be your boyfriend?"
In that moment, whatever love Arthur felt for Merlin had disappeared. How dare he?
"You're right. I was so desperate to make everyone believe I was happy so I paid a two month's salary for a lie." He shook his head in disbelief, he wanted to stop talking, but couldn't help himself. "And, at the end of the day, the only one who ended up falling for it was me."
Merlin's eyes widened then and it looked as though he were going to say something but Arthur cut him off. "I wish I could say it was worth it."
"Go ahead, Arthur, hate me," Merlin said. He took a step closer to Arthur, and Arthur stepped back. "I think you're running out of steam on this whole Cenred thing anyhow."
"What does-"
"Maybe now you'll be able to hold on to this long enough to ruin your next relationship!" Merlin grimaced and Arthur didn't know if it was at him or at his own words. He shook his head, turned around, and walked away.
Arthur wanted to reach out then. He wanted to stop Merlin, but didn't. He let the rain pour over him, and stood there, until Merlin was far gone, and Arthur couldn't stand the cold anymore. He slowly walked back to the hotel room.
By the time Arthur reached the entrance to the hotel, the rain had stopped. He saw Leon chasing after Merlin, who had his bags in tow.
"Merlin, where are you going?"
"Don't worry, Leon. I'm just going to check into the hotel down the street. I called them, they have a room available."
"Merlin, you can't. There's a room-"
"It's fine, Leon."
They faced each other, and Arthur hid in the shadows; he didn't want them to know he was there.
"Look, I don't know what's going on with you two but I'm sure you'll work it out," Leon said, but Merlin continued to frown.
"You couldn't be more perfect if Arthur had picked you out of a catalogue."
Merlin smiled at that. It was a sad little smile, and it seemed to tug at Arthur’s heart. Arthur still remained quiet.
"Take the car, at least. So you don’t have to walk to the hotel."
"Thanks, Leon. You’re a good guy. Just don’t forget it."
And as Merlin drove away, and Leon watched him go, Arthur snuck into the hotel and ran up to his room.
Arthur had been in his room for all of five minutes, and had just grabbed a towel and started to dry himself off when there was a knock on the door.
Typical Morgana. She didn't wait to be asked to come in and just opened the door.
"Hey," she said.
Arthur took in a deep breath, steeled himself, and turned around. "Hi," he said.
"Listen, Arthur. I'm just ... I wanted to thank you for not saying anything to Leon about... about what happened today." Arthur nodded but didn't say anything. He had nothing to say.
"I want to tell him, just not the night before our wedding. You know, with these things, timing is everything."
Arthur put his hands in his pockets and balled them up in fists. He was just about done with Morgan's shit. "You're right, Morgana. Completely! You should time it right, so that when Leon hears you repeatedly screwed his best friend, he won't feel like the world is collapsing and there's no escape because you tricked him into marrying you."
"Arthur..."
"Don't worry, Morgana. Your wedding will be perfect. Tomorrow, I'll keep a smile on my face, I'll say all the right things, and you'll deal with Leon when you're ready. But right now..." Morgana took a step towards him and Arthur gestured for her to stop. "But right now, tonight, I'm not going to pretend it's okay. Now kindly get out of my bloody room, and next time, don't act like you fucking own it. You have no right anymore."
Morgana immediately started to cry, but to his relief she turned around and left the room. Arthur shook his head in disbelief, and then cursed himself for being surprised at all. It was Morgana, she was always going to be the drama queen.
Arthur took off all his wet clothes and collapsed on the bed. He turned from one side to another, hating himself of how he'd already started to miss Merlin.
Ten minutes later, there was another knock on the door, and Arthur groaned. "Go away," he yelled.
"Come on, Arthur, open up."
Arthur grumbled to himself, but he reached out for a shirt and some trousers and went to answer the door. Gwaine was standing on the other side with a bottle of Jack in hand. "Need some company?"
Arthur nodded and let him in.
"Check out, did he?"
"I suppose. He has the decency to know to keep his distance."
"Arthur, I'm your best friend, you can't be all cross with me forever."
"I'm not cross with you," Arthur said, plopping himself on the bed and Gwaine came and sat down next to him. "Give me that." Arthur reached for the bottle as Gwaine brought out two glasses from his jacket pocket.
"By the way," Gwaine drawled as Arthur poured them both a double shot.
"Yeah?"
"I said hello to Percy." Gwaine clinked his glass with Arthur's and took a sip of his drink.
"Oh, brilliant. Just make sure Morgana hasn't slept with him before you do anything."
-=-=-
"So why did you let him go?" Uther asked as they waited outside the chapel for the wedding party to arrive.
"It's complicated, Father." Arthur's fingers twitched and regardless of how hung over he was, he still wished he had a drink.
"Well, most things are." Uther patted Arthur on the shoulder, then he reached for his flask, and offered it to his son. Arthur took a swig, and then Uther did too. "Wouldn't have worked out anyway."
"Why?" Arthur asked, hating how much he cared.
"The boy seemed a bit obsessed with you, if you ask me." Arthur gave his father a confused look. "I heard him telling Vivienne what he thought of you when he first laid his eyes upon you. A bit of a romantic for my taste-"
"What did he say?"
Uther shrugged. "Something about you wore this red button-down shirt, no tie, with a blazer. And you were holding your drink, but not really drinking from it. As if hiding behind that glass gave you a confidence-he seemed intrigued by your actions, the way you carried yourself- Sort of the same stuff he said to me when we first met. But like I said, bit of a sap. Sounded like a girl. No wonder he got on so well with Morgana."
"At the Wonder Wanderer mixer?" Arthur asked, bemused. How did Merlin know-
"Yeah, that's where you met, wasn't it? I mean, the fact you didn't wear a tie with your suit, and he found it appealing should just tell me everything I need to know. You need a man who knows how to dress sharp-"
"Father."
"Well, he has been dressing well the entire time he was here, so-"
"He was at the mixer. He saw me."
"I'd reckon so. Why are you so confused, Arthur? What did you smoke this morning?"
"Father-"
"But it doesn't really matter what I think, though, does it? No matter how I try to influence you, you've always ended up doing what you've wanted to do. So wear a tie, don't wear a tie, you have to tell me one thing, Arthur?"
"What's that?"
"Is he the man for you?"
Uther's expression was fierce and Arthur was absolutely shocked by his father's words. His heart beat fast because the question was a real one, and so was the expression in has father's eyes. Uther saw right through Arthur, knew he wanted Merlin, and was all right with it?
Arthur nodded. Not sure if he would be able to trust his own voice at the moment.
Uther smiled at him then. It was unlike anything Arthur had ever seen, or experienced. The warmth in his eyes nearly made Arthur's heart melt.
"Then go and get him."
Arthur grinned at his father and got up on his feet. He didn't know what to do first. Wheels. He needed wheels. Wait, they'd all been driven to the city so there wasn't anyone-no there was Lance. He and Percy had come on their own so Lance had a car.
"Actually, we came in Percy's car," Lance said, when Arthur asked him.
"Percy?" Arthur asked, feeling defeated already.
"Here, take my keys." Percy brought out his car keys from his trouser pockets and handed them to Arthur. "It's the dark blue Nissan-"
"Thanks!" Arthur said, and Percy nodded. "Oh, and talk to Gwaine!"
Arthur didn't want for a reply as he found Percy's car, started it, and was out of hotel parking lot in record time. He wasn't entirely sure where Merlin was staying, but figured the closest hotel to the River City hotel was probably the best bet. He rushed to the reception desk, heart pounding, almost out of breath and asked for Merlin.
"Merlin Emrys?"
"I'm sorry, sir, but it seems Mr Emrys has checked out."
"Oh. Can you tell me how long-"
"I'm sorry, I can't. I can't divulge guest information without-"
"Fine," Arthur said. His heart sank, his heartbeat slowed, and his legs took him back to Percy's car. It was as if all of a sudden he was on autopilot, and he drove back to the River City hotel without really thinking about it.
When he parked the car in the same spot he'd found it, nothing look like it'd changed. Except...Vivienne came rushing to him, looking completely distraught.
"What's the matter?"
"It's Leon. He's left."
"Left. Why?" Arthur's eyes widened. Had Morgana actually told him the truth? "Where's Cenred?"
"Yeah, that's the thing. Leon sort of went chasing after Cenred. He looked like he was out for blood-"
"How's Morgana taking it?"
"She's in the bridal room. Obviously, a mess. Arthur..." She paused to give herself a moment. "I think she means it this time. She's actually upset."
Arthur nodded at Vivienne and patted her shoulder. "Here's my mobile. Call Merlin. I'm not sure he'll answer. But if anyone can fix this, he can. If he doesn't pick up, text him."
Arthur left Vivienne behind and ran towards the bridal dressing room. When he knocked on the door and softly opened it, he found Morgana with her face buried in her hands. "Gana, you all right?" Arthur rolled his eyes at himself; of course she wasn't all right.
"I did it. I mean, I told the truth-"
"You didn't have to. If you loved him so much..." Arthur said softly. He came and sat across from her, taking her hand in his. "I know I was angry before, but I didn't want this for you. You two could have been-"
"You were right. I couldn't lie to him. Not about this. Not for forever." She squeezed his hand and then retrieved hers to grab another tissue. As she dabbed her eyes, she spoke again. "I feel better though. I couldn't live a lie. I can't be the same person as I was before. I shouldn't have done what I did to you and I don't deserve-"
"Stop that," Arthur said, edging himself closer to Morgana as he took her head and rested it on his chest.
"I'll ruin your shirt," she said.
"It's okay. I am your brother, and that's what it's meant for."
They stayed like that for a while, quiet, as Arthur held her and Morgana gently cried. Arthur couldn't help it and let his thoughts wander over to Merlin. Where would he be headed now? He had Leon's car; was he going to drop it off before taking a taxi to the train station? Or would he simply fly out of River City to London? It was a short flight, barely an hour, but it did beat taking the train from River City to Camelot to London.
He didn't know how long they waited for, but eventually, Morgana's sobs died down, and she began to put herself together.
"I should fix my makeup before addressing the guests-"
"Morgana, you don't have to. We can-"
"No," she said, standing up. "It's my mess. I'll clean it up."
"They're back!" Vivienne said, sounding frantic. She came barging into the room, her hair all over the place.
"Who?"
"Leon and Merlin!" she exclaimed. "They're standing outside speaking to your father-"
"I'll go and check. Viv, get her ready, okay?"
Arthur's heart rate caught up with the excitement of the moment. Was Leon really back? And was the wedding still on? And equally, if not more importantly, had Merlin forgiven Arthur? Sure, he'd not yet had an opportunity to apologise, but Merlin seemed to know what made Arthur tick more than Arthur did-so he'd know-
As Arthur got to the gates of the chapel, he saw Leon running towards him. "She's still going to want to marry me, isn't she?"
"Of course, mate!" Arthur said as Leon brushed past him.
He turned to look at Merlin who was running behind Leon, only a few feet away.
"I have to go!" Merlin said, stopped to look at Arthur. His eyes falling on Arthur's lips before they locked with Arthur's. "I'm the Best Man."
"What? How did you-how did you manage that?"
Merlin shrugged. "I was on my way to the train station. I was going to call Leon from there to let him know where his car was but...I couldn't make it. I couldn't leave. You."
"Oh?" Merlin smiled at him, and Arthur grabbed him by the back of his neck and pulled him in for a kiss. "Why not?"
Merlin kissed him again. He wrapped his arms around Arthur's waist and kept him close. "I couldn't leave this. I realised I'd rather spend my days fighting with you, than spend my nights making love to someone else."
Arthur opened his mouth to say something, but Vivienne's voice cut him off.
"Arthur, come on!"
"Later," Merlin said, kissing Arthur's cheek, and running into the chapel.
=-=-=
The decorators had outdone themselves, as the reception hall was sparkling. The pristine three-tier cake sat decorated and untouched in one corner, and the gifts were arranged beautifully in the other. And in the centre of it all were the happy couple.
Morgana had her eyes closed as she slow danced with Leon, resting her head on his shoulder. Arthur caught Leon’s eye and he gently nodded to him once, before spinning Morgana around.
Merlin raked his fingers through Arthur’s hair as they danced not too far away from the bride and groom, keeping their distance, and their attention from everyone else. It was Morgana’s day, and Arthur was happy to be semi-hiding in the corner with Merlin. He would be willing to be anywhere with Merlin.
"So what did you say to him?" Arthur asked when Merlin brushed his cheek against Arthur’s. He smelled wonderful. It was more Merlin’s scent than the cologne he was wearing that intoxicated Arthur.
"Hmm?"
"Leon. Vivienne told me you’d answered the phone when she called you. That you went to fetch him."
Merlin smiled, his ears turning red, before he spoke. "I told him he could spend a lifetime having make up sex…"
It was so unexpected Arthur couldn’t help but throw his head back and give a bark of laugh. Everyone in the room turned to look at them, and then he buried his face in Merlin’s neck as Merlin started to snicker as well.
"That ought to do it," Arthur said to Merlin. "God, how did you end up being so bloody perfect?"
"I’m not that perfect," Merlin said. "If I were, Dragonworks Publishing would actually pick up the play I’ve been writing-"
"So it’s true. You were at the event, and you did see me." Merlin nodded his reply. "Why didn’t you tell me that from before? Why did you let me believe you were on the job-"
"I was on the job," Merlin said. "I was an escort there, but I was also working for myself. Arthur, there’s a reason I only escort women…"
A pang of jealously went through Arthur and he pulled Merlin a bit closer, as if, staking a claim on him right then and now was going to solve all his insecurities.
"Okay, let me rephrase that…there’s a reason, when I was an escort, I only worked with women."
Arthur eased up a bit then, and smiled. "What’s that?"
"I got invited to the most interesting parties, and no matter how much the client wanted to sleep with me, I actually wouldn’t. I don’t shag my clients, I’ve told you that. That’s why I was afraid when the agency asked me to do this so last minute-"
"Did you know it was me? I mean when you saw me-"
"No…" Merlin chuckled softly, and he gave that smile again which made Arthur’s heart melt. "I couldn’t believe my luck. I hadn’t been able to get you out of my head and then there you were-and I was supposed to pretend to be your boyfriend and have the freedom to kiss you whenever I wanted. It was awful to have you so close and not be able to be with you."
"Well, that didn’t last very long."
"Is that a bad thing? I mean, do you think I overstepped-"
"No, Merlin. Trust me. Lucas getting sick was probably the best thing that could have happened. To both of us. And I…I’d like to take you out on a date."
Merlin cupped Arthur’s face and leaned close, pressing his lips against Arthur’s, before he started to bite and lick on Arthur’s lower lip. He bit the inside of his cheek as if stopping himself from doing more when he asked, "When do we start?"
"Tonight? Would you like to go to dinner with me?"
Merlin's face grew serious, and took in a deep breath before speaking, "Yes. But I think you should know…"
"Yeah?"
"I don’t have sex on the first date." Merlin bit his lower lip as if he were trying to stop himself from laughing. "Oh, and I'd like to pay. Just so we're on the same page." He winked then, and Arthur shook his head.
"It's never going to be dull with you, is it?"
"Nope," Merlin said.
"So, do you think we could maybe get a pre-date shag since we're not going to have one later?"
Merlin seemed to think it over. "Hmm. I suppose that can be arranged, Mr Pendragon."
Arthur grinned. "Oh, and I think there's something you should know about me though."
"What's that?"
"I'm known to do favours for sex. So if you want your play published...You best bring your A-game."
"Arthur, I couldn't..."
"All I'm saying is that I'll get a meeting arranged with an editor. Whatever happens after that is out of my hands."
"Are you sure? I mean, I was only kidding-"
"Hey..." Arthur placed a finger on Merlin's lips. "It's what boyfriends are for. Right?"
"Real boyfriends," Merlin said with a shrug. "I suppose I have to do something as I'm getting out of the business."
Arthur kissed him again then. Their bodies pressed together, and Arthur knew that he should probably stay. Wait for the bride and groom to cut the cake, but he didn't care. Now that Morgana and Leon's life was settled, he couldn't wait to start his with Merlin.
"Well, let's get the favours started then..." Merlin grabbed Arthur's hand and led him out of the room. As they made down the long corridor and out to the parking lot to walk back to River City hotel, they found two men tucked in the corner, snogging like a couple of teenagers.
"Is that…?" Merlin started to ask, when the two men turned around. Faces red, lips swollen.
Percy and Gwaine. Yep. They were.
THE END.
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