Emerson's Cell

[unwaning]

"It's Merlin! I can't answer the phone now so leave a message and I'll ring you back later. Cheers!"

Comments

[dragonspeak]

[An amused huff escapes him, and he pulls back just enough to raise his eyebrows at Arthur.]

Well, you know. Now that I think of it, I might have to be on campus to help Leon--Leonard with one of his classes today.

[pratentious]

[ Arthur sucks his teeth, grinning. ]

As though he's never let us get away with far worse than skiving off for a day. I'm sure he can survive without you. I, on the otherhand -

[ He turns in his seat to rest his head on the back of his seat and blink innocently up at Merlin. ]

- might very well perish. Have mercy.

[dragonspeak]

[He tries not to react, he really does. In the end, he can't help but look at Arthur, stricken for a moment, before pasting a smile on.]

I had no idea you needed me so much.

[The smirk feels a little weak, but at least it's there.]

[pratentious]

[ It resonates, that small falter in Merlin's cheek, and Arthur blinks back that far away place where life was something precious that broke in his hands. He speaks, halfway in a daze; ]

There's just ... something about you.

[ Something - something precious. Arthur's brows furrow and he rubs at his temple. ]

Mm. Could do with a day-long nap or two, though, if you'd like to head off to work. I might be shite for company like this.

[dragonspeak]

Don't be stupid.

[Merlin drags a chair over, sitting toe to toe with Arthur.]

I didn't put up with your silly pick up lines just so I could leave you for work.

[pratentious]

Does wishing you were a bite-sized snack count as a pick up line?

[ He tugs one of Merlin's hands into his own the moment he's near enough for it; physical contact is keeping him calm. Cuddly whilst hungover, who knew? ]

If so, I'm better than I thought I was. Not like you're one to talk, Mr Destiny and Fate.

[ A light smirk. Their first not!date was cavity worthy amounts of endearing. ]

[dragonspeak]

[His mouth twitches.]

You liked it when I chatted you up. Don't try to deny it.

[Merlin gives Arthur's foot a nudge with his own.]

[pratentious]

I wouldn't dream of it.

[ He'll just. Subtly tug on Merlin's hand to urge him closer for a kiss. He doesn't want to move much himself, but he can totally make Merlin come to him instead!! ]

[dragonspeak]

[Merlin allows himself to be pulled in, tilting his head to accept the kiss.]

How are you really feeling?

[He pulls back, hand lingering at Arthur's nape and stroking lightly at the damp skin there.]

[pratentious]

[ Arthur bites his lip in consideration before answering with a crooked smile. ]

Better, now you're here.

[ Whomp whomp, talk about cheesy pick up lines. But he's sincere about it, if not entirely honest. He sighs and amends. ]

My head doesn't quite feel like imploding anymore, but it's a near enough thing. I must've drank more than I'd realised last night. It really does feel better with you near, though.

[dragonspeak]

[Merlin ducks his head, smile suddenly turning shy. After a second, he looks at Arthur through his lashes.]

You're awfully good at buttering people up when you want to be.

[He leans in for a quick kiss, then stands and pulls Arthur to his feet.]

Come on. You're supposed to be in bed for today, remember?

[pratentious]

[ Arthur sways a bit as he gets to his feet, holding tightly to Merlin's hand to steady himself, and then he frowns suddenly. ]

You'll stay, right?

[dragonspeak]

[His fingers cards through Arthur's hair as he nuzzles at his neck fondly.]

Of course, you great prat. I told you I would, didn't I?

[pratentious]

I know, it's just -

[ He closes his eyes, lets himself enjoy Merlin's touch and tries to stop thinking. But the fear of going someplace Merlin won't follow lingers. ]

I need those toes of yours, see, else I'll never keep my feet warm.

[dragonspeak]

[Bemused as he is, Merlin still wraps himself around Arthur, picking up on his uncharacteristic neediness.]

Just my toes, hmm?