fic: Tail Between His Legs (2/2)
Title: Tail Between His Legs (2/2)
Part One
When Arthur came home that evening, he trilled in jest, "Honey, I'm home!" He'd always wanted to do that. He padded into the kitchen, where Merlin was finishing that day's chilli con carne, and Arthur suddenly wondered if he was back in the 1950s as Merlin turned around, trotted up to him and pecked him on the lips. Arthur's hands settled around Merlin's waist as he noted that Merlin was wearing his frilly white apron. He might have gurgled a little bit.
"Did you mop?" Arthur asked instead, sliding his jacket off and flinging it over the back of the sofa. Having a bigger flat meant more for Merlin to clean now, but he generally did do a very good job and it meant that Arthur had to think of less inane things for him to do throughout the day. Merlin set the table for them, and made to take the apron off. Arthur caught him by the wrist. "Hey, can... Keep it on, Merlin."
Startled, Merlin glanced down at it. "Okay," he said uncertainly, sliding his hands down to press it against his thighs, fingers playing with the ruffles. He looked back up, both of them with an inexplicable tinge of pink high on their cheekbones. Merlin stuttered, "The food will get cold." They both tumbled into their seats.
The film was good and Arthur watched Merlin discuss it with a smile on his lips, commenting on how weak the characterisation of Jane Seymour had been. Merlin stopped abruptly, looking over at Arthur concernedly. "Arthur?"
Arthur moved his hand from the gear stick to lightly squeeze Merlin's and said simply, "Carry on. If I wanted you to stop, I would have said." Merlin smiled at him, the first Merlin-million-watt smile he'd seen in a long while, and Arthur might have melted a little bit inside. As they got home, Arthur paused for a moment. He'd thought about it a long, and there was every possibility that it would all go horribly wrong, but he had to act like he knew what he was doing, or Merlin would become concerned.
"Come on, let's go to bed." Arthur pulled Merlin up the stairs, his heart pounding. Merlin looked a bit surprised - it was still relatively early. Arthur lay back on his back, murmuring in delight as Merlin crawled over him to the other side. Pulling Merlin close, Arthur cuddled them together and leaned into Merlin to kiss him. His kiss was soft and wet and Merlin's mouth was welcoming. Arthur cupped Merlin's jaw, his thumb rubbing over Merlin's cheek as he drew Merlin's lower lip into his mouth and sucked lightly. Merlin's eyes closed, his dark eyelashes fluttering. "Open your eyes," Arthur commanded. "I want to see your eyes." Merlin opened them, rolled his eyes so that he could watch Arthur. Arthur observed Merlin's eyes from up close, seeing how wide they were at the moment, filled with fear and trust. He knew that if he did something that Merlin really didn't like, Merlin would immediately put an end to it, but the way Merlin trusted him to take control gave Arthur the confidence to do it.
Kissing Merlin some more, Arthur rubbed his hands against Merlin's waist, feeling the warmth of his body emanate through his clothes. He shuffled his fingers, rucking up the fabric of Merlin's t-shirt until there was a slither of skin bared. Arthur played the tips of his fingers over that warm, pale skin, and felt Merlin shiver underneath them. He could feel the tiny hairs on Merlin's skin prickle upright, and Arthur found himself pulling the fabric further and further up, until he gave up teasing that little slip of Merlin's skin and just yanked the damn t-shirt off already.
Arthur took the time to look down at Merlin. He was a mess of dark hair and bright eyes set on a canvas of pale skin. Arthur ran his hands all over Merlin's chest, feeling the way it expanded as he breathed. Merlin's breath was shallow at the moment as he watched Arthur in turn.
Leaning back in to continue the kiss, Arthur murmured, "You're gorgeous." It was hardly the first time he'd seen Merlin's chest. They'd grown up together, exchanged boyish locker-room comparisons years ago. Arthur pressed a trail of kisses down Merlin's chest, so familiar but so new.
Arthur stopped at the waistband of Merlin's jeans, nosing them. He hesitated, wondering yet again if it was too much, too fast, not the right time. He rolled his eyes up to look at Merlin, who just lay there with an expectant look on his face. Arthur yanked his jeans off, and the underwear with it. A startled laugh bubbled out of Merlin as his hips jerked and he wriggled, suddenly naked under Arthur.
When friends got changed in front of each other, it was with backs turned, deliberately not looking at all the wrong bits of their body. Arthur blushed at the thought of staring at Merlin with all his clothes off and Merlin blushed at the thought of being stared at. "Stop that," Arthur said, finally, pressing a hand on Merlin's thigh and making him stop moving. "I want to look."
Merlin was skinnier now than before. He only recently started eating more at Arthur's insistence, who had joked that if Merlin didn't eat more, Arthur was going to have to pull up the slack and that would make Arthur fat. Merlin had smiled tentatively, and managed another two spoonfuls. Merlin wasn't nearly as pallid as a couple of months back though. He would always be pale, but at least now he didn't look ill.
No matter what Merlin looked like naked though, Arthur would have still run his hands along his body, enjoying the unbroken line from shoulder down to knee. He could see Merlin tremble with the want to move, uncomfortable and shy with this new development, but there was nothing to say that he wanted to stop. "You're so obedient," Arthur murmured, pressing a kiss to his forehead. It was perhaps the first time they'd mentioned Merlin's deference to Arthur's will so blatantly, but instead of being awkward, the comment made Merlin's face light up with a smile, as if it was a compliment. Maybe it was.
Arthur reached out on impulse, and scratched Merlin's stomach. "Like a kitten," he said, a smirk playing on his lips. "Or a puppy," he added. He liked puppies more. Merlin snorted, but after Arthur's next kiss, he made a tiny little 'whuff' noise. Arthur's brain broke around that point.
"Uuurgh," Arthur groaned, sliding his hands down to grab at Merlin's thigh and arse. "Stop being so irresistible."
Merlin pawed his hands playfully at Arthur's chest, before disobeying a direct order. "No." Arthur didn't mind that much, really. He carried on shamelessly groping Merlin, since from the little pleased huffs coming from Merlin, he didn't mind it at all. It was all new territory, these sort of areas being the ones one did not stare at when a friend was changing. Merlin's arse was smooth, and just right amount of plump, and his thighs were warm and soft, but distinctly not like a girl's. Arthur wanted to lick all up the inside of them and then decided that it was exactly he was going to do.
With a pained groan that had everything to do with not grabbing Arthur's head and begging for more and nothing at all to do with pain, Merlin arched his back as Arthur licked all over him, nibbling and biting and sucking at his flesh. Arthur noted with interest the way Merlin's cock twitched every time he breathed on it. Arthur propped his chin on Merlin's hip, and gently blew on Merlin's cock. Merlin squeaked a bit, and his hands flew to cup over his groin, his ears completely pink.
Arthur was discovering all sorts of adorable things about Merlin recently. He licked one of Merlin's long fingers all the way down. "Shoo," he said lazily. It took a while for Merlin to respond, his face burning, but eventually he moved his hands to rest on the sheets by his hips, his fingers still twitching a bit nervously.
Another puff of breath on Merlin's cock made him squirm, and Arthur pinched a soft bit of his inner thigh, making Merlin squeal like a girl. "I told you to stop moving, didn't I?" Arthur licked his way from the tip of Merlin's cock to the base like he had done to the finger earlier, and Merlin gave an obscene groan that Arthur very much wanted to hear again. Crawling back up the length of Merlin's body, Arthur pressed himself against Merlin, knowing that the rub of his jeans on Merlin's cock must almost hurt.
"I would very much like to have sex with you," Arthur smiled, wiggling his hips between Merlin's legs and pulling them up either side of him. Merlin stared at him, wide-eyed and scared, and Arthur's heart stuttered, hoping desperately that he had judged the tone right. Merlin swallowed, and his mouth dropped half-open, a small moan of unmistakable desire escaping. His legs tightened a tiny bit around Arthur's hips and Arthur pecked Merlin on the lips with relief. I came prepared," he added, fishing around in his pocket for the small packets he had placed in there earlier with trepidation.
Shifting around, Arthur rolled Merlin over and he sprawled on his front before shuffling his knees up so that his arse was in the air and wiggled it. If Arthur had possessed any less self-control, he might have drooled a bit. He self-consciously wiped his mouth just in case anyway. "Shameless," Arthur muttered, ripping apart the first packet and squeezing the smooth liquid onto Merlin's arse. Merlin gasped, the muscles around his hole twitching a bit with the cold, only relaxing as Arthur smeared it around, warming it up.
"Why don't you," Arthur grinned evilly, "prepare yourself?" He sat back, eyeing the delicacy before him as Merlin's face went red again as he slowly reached back with one hand. He hand was soon slick with lube and Arthur watched with shallow breathing as Merlin slid a finger inside himself. Arthur was glad Merlin wasn't watching him, because he felt like a shameless pervert himself, mouth hanging open as quiet moans crawled out of his throat.
Merlin stretched himself expertly and Arthur shuddered at the idea of getting his cock into that tight, wet arsehole, and suddenly decided that he was wearing far too many clothes. He took the time to remove his shirt and jeans, his erect cock getting caught in the waistband of his underwear and bobbing a bit as he freed it, kicking his trousers off. All the while, he kept his eyes on Merlin, stretching himself, pumping his hand as three fingers slid in and out of him.
"Enough," Arthur pulled Merlin's hand away, and a ripple of anticipation fluttered through Merlin. He opened the other packet, hurriedly rolling on a condom before lining himself up to Merlin, all sorts of inadequacy qualms shooting through him as he thought about all of Merlin's past boyfriends. Some of them had been very good-looking, and Merlin had met him looking sex ruffled and pleased before. Arthur bit his lip, and slowly slid himself into Merlin. Now was definitely not the time to be thinking of other men. He started out unbearably slowly to let Merlin get used to it before picking a slight faster pace, rocking Merlin's hips forwards as he thrust.
Merlin panted in front of him, and Arthur tried to tip his hips to get the best angle for Merlin. He knew he found it when Merlin gasped, pushing his arse up to accommodate it. Arthur bit his lip, closing his eyes momentarily to enjoy the hot grip of Merlin's arse around him, wet and slick, loose enough that he didn't have to worry about hurting Merlin, but just tight enough to make him work for it.
Arthur panted, his muscles aching from usage they weren't used to as he stroked Merlin's back, pressing kisses down the knobs of his spine. He kept half an ear out for Merlin as best as he could given that he was thinking with his cock at the moment, judging how much Merlin was enjoying it from the little noises slipping out from the back of his throat. It wasn't until Arthur was close to coming that he noticed that Merlin hadn't touched himself. His hands were curled desperately in the sheets, eyes scrunched closed as he gasped. Arthur flitted one hand near Merlin's cock and he could almost feel Merlin straining, silently begging for a touch. He took his hand away again, and Merlin whimpered.
As the pressure built up low in his belly, Arthur gasped, thrusting faster and harder, the bed creaking a bit underneath them. Merlin's arse contracted around him, and Arthur choked, his careful rhythm falling apart due to Merlin. A few more hard pumps and he was coming inside Merlin in awkward spurts, gasping. Merlin dropped his head to the bed, his arse clenching uncontrollably. Slumping over Merlin, Arthur felt rather than saw Merlin's knees buckle, sliding them both to sprawl over the bed.
Arthur pressed a kiss to Merlin shoulder, and then rolled off so that he was spooned around Merlin's back, where he had a much better view. Merlin's cock was leaking, wet smears on his stomach and the sheets. Merlin was hunched over a bit, hands still firmly away in case he gave in. Arthur massaged his hip with one hand, and whispered in Merlin's ear, "Go on, touch yourself."
A lusty groan ripped out of Merlin's throat as his hands shot to his cock. He gripped himself firmly, tugging with no finesse whatsoever. His hips rocked, his arse rubbing against Arthur's thighs. Arthur stroked his leg, his head propped up on Merlin's shoulder to see properly. Merlin was clearly close, but... Arthur kissed Merlin's neck. "Come for me." That was it. It seemed to take barely any time at all until he came then, hot wet dribbles spluttering out onto his hand and Arthur watched with breath baited. Eventually, Merlin stopped twitching, and Arthur reached over, taking Merlin's hand and slipping the thin fingers into his mouth, swirling his tongue around them as he cleaned Merlin up.
"So..." Arthur started, rolling Merlin around so that he could see his face. "Well?" He was, apparently, as equally inept with words as before. A small blush spread across his cheeks as he struggled not just with the intimacy but being in charge of it.
Merlin chuckled, snuggling in closer to Arthur in his usual position when they slept, and pressed his face into Arthur's neck. "So... well," he repeated with a light teasing tone, pulling the covers over them. Arthur was about to indignantly point out that that wasn't an answer, before realising that it was the first time their interaction had felt familiar since Before. Something tight in his heart that he hadn't even known was there loosened a bit, and Arthur found himself smiling. Arthur shook his head. "Bloody cheek," he sighed, lightly pinching Merlin's thigh again. "You can't speak to me like that."
"I'll speak to you how I want," a tired mumble came from Merlin, and Arthur pulled him more tightly into his arms, knowing that Merlin wouldn't. Adorable indeed.
-
After that, most things stayed the same. Arthur found that nothing turned awkward, as he had feared, and Merlin never seemed to be comparing his performance to past lovers. Merlin's little quick replies started coming back and Arthur grinned, enjoying their exchange of insults. Then he could haul Merlin's arse into bed and make him pay for calling him things like 'clotpole'.
Aside from their little acts though, Arthur was secretly relieved that Merlin seemed to be regaining his independence, his ability to think for himself and an interest in having an opinion. It felt like getting his best friend back. Merlin was getting better marks for his essays now too, and actually showing an interest in his degree again. On top of that though, Arthur was glad that he didn't have to make decisions for Merlin anymore. He wasn't sure that he was making the right decisions for himself, let alone another person too. He'd always thought that once Merlin was 'back', he'd stop ordering him around. Somehow, that hadn't changed though, and Arthur found that now there wasn't the pressure of having to do it, he quite liked ordering Merlin around. It was a game now, he realised.
A few weeks later though, there seemed to be a little thrum of excitement coming from Merlin as he served up dinner. Arthur raised an eyebrow at the welcome home kiss, which was a little sloppier than usual, but didn't ask. Merlin would no doubt reveal whatever it was in due time. They retreated to the living room, Arthur switching on the news. Merlin sat on the floor instead of next to Arthur. He'd been playing up the act ever since the offhand 'puppy' comment, and Arthur was uncommonly glad that he'd dared to say it. Now, Merlin lolled his head on Arthur's thigh, his body tucked up against Arthur's leg. His face split into a wolfish grin as he nuzzled Arthur's leg, and Arthur reached out to ruffle his hair. All Merlin needed was a little tail that thumped against the rug, he thought in amusement.
Arthur got his wish that night. Merlin crawled into bed naked, his now preferred state for cuddling and other things, flopping all over him exactly like an oversized puppy, and then licked his lips nervously. Arthur looked at him, his eyebrow raised again. "Can you close your eyes?" Merlin fidgeted. Arthur did after a moment. He could hear a clunk noise from Merlin's side of the bed and some shifting around. He guessed that Merlin had opened his bedside drawer, curiosity piquing. After another moment, Merlin said breathlessly, "Okay."
Arthur opened his eyes and looked around. Merlin looked nervously at him. He hadn't got off the bed, so Arthur focussed his attention on Merlin's body itself. He frowned - was there something sticking out behind Merlin's back? "Are you holding something behind your back?" Merlin held out his hands: nothing. Arthur reached out, rolling Merlin onto his front and staring. It took him a moment to understand what it was, since all he could see was sleek fluff. Merlin raised his arse into the air and shook it, and realisation dawned.
"It's... a tail," Arthur said wonderingly, reaching out to sift his fingers through it. It was about the length of his hand, and incredibly soft. He rubbed at the point where it joined Merlin's arse, and realised that it was actually a butt plug. "That is kinky," he stated, slightly breathless. What he meant was that that it was both horrendously hot and cute at the same time, and he didn't really know how to react.
Merlin whuffled at him, shaking his arse again so that the tail thumped against his arse and thighs, and nuzzled at Arthur's thigh. "I like," Arthur said firmly, leaning down to kiss Merlin, tugging his hair and reaching down to rotate the butt plug. Merlin's eyes radiated relief, even as he moaned when Arthur twisted it.
Scratching Merlin's stomach and watching Merlin curl his arms up in front like a puppy, Arthur pulled his own clothes off. Merlin was eyeing Arthur's cock with interest as it twitched, and Athur supposed that he had better reward Merlin for such a good idea. "Open up," he drawled, straddling Merlin's shoulders, holding out his cock. Merlin licked his lips, and slipped Arthur's cock into his mouth as far as he could. Merlin's mouth was hot and wet, and his tongue was sliding slowly against him. He rolled his hips slowly, enjoying the difference between this and being inside Merlin's arse.
Damn, Merlin was good at this. He rolled his eyes up to look at Arthur, somehow managing to stay wide-eyed and innocent even as he slurped a bit. Arthur groaned as Merlin licked up the underside of his cock, his tongue poking out lewdly before popping the tip back into his mouth again. Merlin sucked, applying pressure by hollowing his cheeks, and Arthur shoved his hips forwards. He felt Merlin's throat constrict, and pulled back just before he gagged.
Fisting Merlin's hair, Arthur began to fuck Merlin's mouth in earnest, loving how Merlin adjusted underneath him, relaxing his throat and groaning as Arthur rammed forwards. At some point though, Arthur thought that it was a shame that he couldn't see his present, and climbed off Merlin. Merlin looked at him with those big eyes, as if asking if he'd done something wrong, and Arthur bent down quickly, kissing him and tasting himself.
Turning around, Arthur heard Merlin make an 'oomph!' noise as Arthur lay on top of him, his face now conveniently parallel with Merlin's cock. "What have we here?" Arthur stroked it with the tip of one finger, and Merlin growled. He always grumped when Arthur teased his body like that, but Arthur knew that he shamelessly enjoyed it. Arthur felt Merlin's hands on his thighs, easing him over just a bit so that Merlin could Arthur's cock back into his mouth again. He hummed his approval: it felt strange but definitely not unwelcome at this angle.
Arthur leaned forward, and gently sucked at the tip of Merlin's cock as if it was a lollipop, and Merlin gasped and jerked. His tail swished enticingly. Arthur watched the way the fur played over his arse, and had an idea. He attacked Merlin's cock, engulfing it in his mouth in one go with no warning, and Merlin yipped, his hips rising up. Thankfully, Arthur thought that might happen, and pinned him down using both hands. Merlin's legs, already cocked up, flailed in every which way, and his tail flicked up and down as they bounced a bit on the mattress.
Arthur wasn't relenting though. He was intent on giving Merlin the blowjob of his life, licking and sucking as Merlin flailed. He felt the most amazing vibrations up his own cock as Merlin moaned around him, too distracted by Arthur to do too much on his end. Arthur resorted to gripping Merlin's thighs with his hands, before was knocked up by a thrashing limb, and Merlin whimpered as his movement was restricted. He could barely buck up into Arthur's mouth anymore, and Arthur liked it that way. He could feel Merlin's muscles start to tense as the pleasure started to overtake him, and his cock hung in Merlin's limp mouth.
Although they'd never spoken about it, Merlin had only ever come after Arthur had encouraged him to, told him to. Arthur let Merlin gasp, eyes rolling back as he waited for the permission that Arthur wasn't giving just yet. "Arthur," Merlin choked, "Arthur, Arthur, please." Arthur carried on, ignoring him for a moment, letting Merlin beg. He liked it.
"You aren't doing your job," Arthur paused long enough to say before sliding the entirety of Merlin's length into his mouth again. He heard Merlin whine in frustration before trying to concentrate. Arthur let Merlin take him all the way in, before running his tongue delicately over Merlin's slit. He felt Merlin choke around him, wet and tight, and grinned. It wasn't fair play at all, Arthur knew. He let Merlin carry on trying to suppress his orgasm, distracting him each time Merlin started to make headway on sucking Arthur off in return. He made sure never to go so far that Merlin involuntarily bit him, or choked for real, and as Merlin's cock started to leak, his body a complete wreck from holding back, Arthur pinched him on the thigh to get his attention. "Come on, Merlin, come for me."
Merlin let out a cry of relief, wetly sliding Arthur's cock out of his mouth as he moaned like a whore, entire body trying to rise off the bed as he came. His tail whisked about in the air. Arthur tasted the hot liquid in his mouth, sucking as Merlin spasmed and swallowing it. Merlin whined, his breath coming out wheezy as he could finally relax. His cock started to go soft in Arthur's mouth, and he let it slide out.
Merlin made to finish Arthur off, and Arthur climbed off Merlin with a grin, surveying his work. It had been a job well done, as Merlin lay curled on his back, breathless and boneless and as cute as a puppy. Arthur reached over, and pulled the butt plug that had been the evening's inspiration out, putting it on the side and petting the fur once again, before replacing it with his cock to finish the job.
Having been prepared by the butt plug, Merlin's arse was stretched and ready, but tight enough that Merlin moaned, his legs falling apart for Arthur. Merlin lay limp, his face flushed with sweat as Arthur did all the work, propping himself on his arms and sliding in and out. He went slowly, adding to Merlin's post-coital haze instead of taking from it. The sweet tightness of Merlin's arse was what did it, Arthur growling softly at first and then more fiercely as the pressure built. He gripped Merlin's arse, pulling it up as he finally came, spilling his load inside Merlin.
They curled up together, Merlin still luxuriously limp and pliant, his arse sticky with Arthur's come. "Good purchase, I approve," Arthur finally yawned, stroking Merlin's hair. Merlin grizzled sleepily at him. He really was such a good puppy.
-
Arthur's sex life seemed to escalate from there, and he wondered how he had managed to be satisfied for so long with having the sort of control in bed he did with Merlin. Both of them had been with previous partners before each other, but it seemed as though they were exploring their new world together, tentatively but with enough confidence to share their wants with each other.
After Merlin had bought the butt plug, Arthur reckoned that it was his turn. He bought Merlin a set of restraints, Velcro in case anything went wrong. He was getting tired from trying to pin Merlin down each time. He tried them out on his own wrist, seeing how easy it would be to rip them off, and briefly wondered whether he might like to use them himself sometimes. The next thing Merlin had bought had been a sleek vibrator. He'd shyly handed Arthur the wireless remote and Arthur had rewarded him by keeping him aroused and helpless, shifting restlessly in a chair for almost an hour in a café when he met Arthur on his lunch break.
They tried other things too, apart from the toys. Merlin's control over his orgasms improved, as Arthur refused to let him come. Arthur loved to hear Merlin beg, and Merlin loved it when Arthur took him without enough preparation. Every time they tried something new though, Arthur's heart would pound with worry. He would turn the situation around in his head, around and upside-down and every which way he could imagine, wondering if Merlin would really like it, if it wasn't too much.
One night, they lay curled up together just chatting, and Merlin let Arthur pet him. "Arthur," his voice rang in the darkness. "I like doing things with you. I like it when you're in control, and if something genuinely scares me, I'll tell you." He pressed a kiss to Arthur's cheek, and Arthur realised that Merlin was the one who dictated everything really. Merlin was the one foremost in his mind when he ordered him about. Arthur felt the burden lift off his shoulders, and hid his smile in Merlin's hair. He always knew the right thing to say.
Sometimes, they didn't like to use words. Merlin shuffled backwards on the bed, scooting until his back was against the headboard and toed off his socks. The bed wobbled as Arthur pounced onto it, and he flushed at the heated look of desire on Arthur's face. Arthur crawled up between Merlin's legs, pushing his knees further apart and trailing his fingers firmly up his legs. Arthur's strong fingers gripped Merlin's thighs, feeling the muscle underneath twitch slightly in anticipation. Merlin kept his hands firmly fisted in the pillows either side of his hips, knowing that Arthur didn't want any help at the moment.
Arthur growled, attacking Merlin's mouth with his own. He pressed their lips together, forcing Merlin's head back until he bumped the wall; it felt like Arthur was trying to push him right through the wall. Arthur alternately nipped and lapped at Merlin's lips until they were red and swollen, kissing him hard enough that it hurt.
As Merlin was preoccupied with his mouth, Arthur flicked open the lube, slicking his fingers up. He pressed his finger against Merlin for just a moment, giving him just enough time to realise what was happening before slipping his finger in. He felt Merlin's body clench around him in surprise and he took advantage of the gasp that ripped out of Merlin to further force his mouth open. His tongue claimed Merlin's mouth, roughly tracing over his teeth and wrestling with Merlin's tongue.
Arthur could feel Merlin try not to squirm by the tension in his hips as he stretched him, swirling his finger around before adding another one just prematurely enough for it to burn. Sure enough, Merlin's hips hitched up, his body reacting instinctively with a whimper before Arthur grabbed him roughly around hips, fingers digging into the soft flesh of his arse and forcing him down.
Feeling Merlin's body spasm as it fought to accommodate him, Arthur pulled his fingers out wetly and lined up his cock. He pushed in slowly, knowing that Merlin wasn't quite stretched enough and head Merlin gasp into the pillow. Arthur let him have a moment to adjust before pulling out and thrusting in as hard and fast as if Merlin was loose and ready. Arthur picked a fast pace and Merlin's body bucked, instinctively trying to get away from the pain.
To stop him, Arthur pinned him down in place, gasping at how hot and tight Merlin's hole was. He rubbed his cock against Merlin's prostate repeatedly and relished how pathetically Merlin mewled at him. Merlin's cock was hard from the friction as Arthur's stomach slid against it and his hands were fisted into the pillows around him as he tried not to touch himself.
Arthur kissed Merlin again, forcing his mouth wider and taking what he wanted, his fingers pinching at Merlin's nipples. He liked how Merlin moved beneath him, constantly struggling to get away and yet pliant and eager for more. He was going to come soon, and Arthur slammed his hips into the back of Merlin's thighs, his muscles tensing as he shot off his load into Merlin's arse, hot and sudden, and felt Merlin's arse clench at the sensation.
Going a little slower now and gasping, Arthur finally pulled out, smearing his come across Merlin's thighs and arse, and settled on the bed next to Merlin. Merlin rolled his eyes to stare at him, a silent plea. Arthur flitted his fingers across Merlin's erection, stimulating but not enough. Arthur could feel Merlin getting closer as he traced his finger up the vein, rolled his fingertip over the head of Merlin's cock and smeared pre-come down the length of Merlin. Suddenly, he gripped Merlin's cock tightly, pumping it as fast as he could and Merlin's back arched in preparation. Just as Merlin was going to come though, Arthur pulled his hand off and Merlin cried out in loss, rolling his hips to try and encourage Arthur to make him come.
Arthur ignored him though, pressing little kisses to his neck, and stroking his hands down Merlin's back, soothing him. Merlin pouted at him and Arthur sucked his lower lip into his mouth, running his tongue along it. Arthur took his time, kissing and licking the light sheen of sweat off Merlin's skin.
As soon as he could again, Arthur panted, lining his half hard cock up and sliding into Merlin easily this time. Merlin whined at him, but sank back against the headboard again as Arthur started thrusting again. He let Merlin gasp and attempt to buck his hips for more before he gripped Merlin's cock again, this time stroking him until Merlin dropped his head backwards, hitting it lightly against the wall and shoved his hips upwards, coming all over Arthur's hand. Merlin moaned, squirming as his over-sensitive body was taken by Arthur still palming his cock, still sliding his own cock against Merlin's prostate for the second time, his tongue teasing across Merlin's skin.
Arthur took advantage of Merlin's limp and boneless state to pound him into the bed, swallowing Merlin's cries out of his mouth. Merlin's cock grew hard helplessly under Arthur's ministrations. Arthur claimed Merlin for himself that night, pushing him beyond what his body was used to. Merlin was unable to move after so much sex, twitching away from Arthur's touch even as he moaned into it. Arthur was using his fingers now, completely spent himself, stroking, teasing that little spot inside Merlin. Merlin's body shook at the peak of his pleasure, his cock leaking but unable to release any more and Arthur finally, finally released him. Merlin slumped against the headboard, his entire body shaking a bit.
Putting two fingers beneath his chin, Arthur tipped his head up to see Merlin's eyes unfocussed, streaky trails down his face where he had cried, his mind unable to catch up to his body's confusion at the switching between denial and forced orgasms. Arthur gathered Merlin into his arms and let Merlin sag against him, pressing their bodies as close together as he could. "So good," Arthur murmured, and felt Merlin press a light kiss to his shoulder in thanks. "You liked that, didn't you? Me taking your body further than you could." Merlin nodded a little, and Arthur rocked Merlin reassuringly. "I'll find more ways," he whispered.
-
Finally, of course, they had to talk about it. Arthur came home one day to find that Merlin had finished his list for the day and was rearranging Arthur's bookcase. It was actually full of books now - Merlin's books. He looked around, seeing all the extra things that Merlin must have moved in today. "Wow."
Merlin noticed up and a smile lit up his face. He sidled up to Arthur, nuzzling his nose, which was what he did when he hoped that Arthur would kiss him. Arthur gave him a distracted peck, and noticed Merlin's coats on the coathanger by the door. "You're moving in?" Merlin straightened up, stepping back and looking around too.
"Well, I already live here," he said with a frown. Merlin licked his lips. "You don't like it. I'll take it all back." He ducked his head and moved towards the bookcase again.
"What? Stop." Arthur grabbed Merlin by the wrist, and Merlin automatically stilled, hunched over and waiting for Arthur. Arthur pulled him in. "Why are you assuming I don't like it?" He demanded.
Merlin looked carefully at him. "You didn't kiss me properly."
With a sigh, Arthur pulled him into a firm kiss. "I was just surprised. But you're right, you basically live here anyway, so there's no reason this shouldn't be your home too." He sat down on the sofa, waiting for Merlin to flop down next to him, and added, "I guess it was just never so... official."
Merlin did sit down eventually, but it was carefully, and measured, and he sat right on the edge of the sofa. Arthur looked at him, and pressed a hand to his cheek fondly. "I always thought that when you 'got better', everything would stop, it would go back to how it used to be," he remarked. He'd had a lot of time to think about this. "But now you are better, and we're still doing this." Merlin looked at him warily. "I like it, Merlin. I like it a lot," Arthur said it like a confession, even though it must have been clear that he enjoyed what they did.
Merlin smiled, ducking his head shyly at the thought of some of the things they had done. "I don't want you to have to if you don't want to," he said simply.
Sidling closer, Arthur wrapped his arms around Merlin, forcibly pulling him until Merlin was leaning on his chest. "I want to. I want you. I want you all the ways you like it. I want you..." He paused before saying the word, his voice a low growl that left no doubt as to how much he liked it, "I want you submissive." Merlin shivered in his arms, and nodded, his body slack with relief. Arthur smiled down at him, glad that he had conquered his own doubtful thoughts on it. The arrangement clearly made Merlin happy, and above all, that was what he wanted.
-
"I have to leave, or I'll be late," Arthur whispered into Merlin's ear. Merlin's only reply was to grunt, and snuffle his nose closer to Arthur's neck.
Arthur smiled before easing himself out of the bed to get ready for work. As he came out of their en-suite bathroom, a toothbrush in his mouth as he simultaneously tried to get dressed, he noticed that Merlin was now curled around Arthur's pillow, head buried in the scent of him. Finally adjusting his tie, Arthur slid a hand up the warmth of Merlin's thigh, squeezing lightly just to hear Merlin's little hum of pleasure before whispering, "I expect dinner to be ready when I'm home tonight. Cook me something with chicken."
When he returned that evening, Arthur toed off his shoes and sniffed, trying to guess what the aromas in the air were. His stomach rumbled accordingly, clearly pleased that there seemed to be food ready. By the time he'd slung his tie around the banister, he was leaning towards breaded chicken with gravy and mash. Perfect.
It had taken Arthur a while - a long while - to realise that their little domestic routine was part of their game. He'd heard of people who played games in bed, but he and Merlin were in their roles all the time. He liked having Merlin as the sweet domestic partner, and Merlin liked welcoming him home every day. It was a game, indeed, a game where they pretended that Merlin needed Arthur's guidance for twenty-four hours of a day, but at the same time, it was the reality of their relationship. It was what worked for them.
Skidding into the kitchen - he was pleased to note that Merlin had evidently mopped - Arthur padded in. "Honey, I'm home," he quipped, wrapping his arms around Merlin's waist. He pressed a kiss to his boyfriend's cheekbone before surveying the mess in front of them. It appeared that the kitchen had been breaded along with the chicken. "I hope you're cleaning that up. I'd hate to have breadcrumbs everywhere the next time we have sex in the kitchen."
" 'Lo," Merlin said, dishing out portions of peas before squirming around and tilting his chin forward a bit, demanding kisses. Arthur eyed his lips for a moment, letting them turn into a pout before obliging. He noticed then that his hands were on Merlin's bare waist, and stepped back, surveying Merlin more carefully. Merlin always wore the frilly apron now, but Arthur choked a little when he realised that Merlin was in fact wearing nothing else at all.
Arthur swivelled Merlin around to admire the view, and choked again. He corrected himself - Merlin was wearing nothing but the apron and his tail. Gathering Merlin into his arms again, his hand fondled the tail behind Merlin's back. "Perfect thing to come home to," he said huskily, feeling the press of Merlin's cock against the apron. He looked at Merlin, so calm and so happy, and kissed him. Merlin slid his hands up to curl into Arthur's shirt and leaned into him, kissing him back.
All of a sudden, Arthur realised that he didn't come home to a boyfriend who trusted him and enjoyed letting him take control, or a gorgeous puppy who was well-trained and fantastic in bed. He didn't come home to have to look after Merlin, or make sure that he had behaved that day. He didn't even come home to an adoring partner and best friend who complimented his strengths and covered his weaknesses. Merlin was home.
Part One
When Arthur came home that evening, he trilled in jest, "Honey, I'm home!" He'd always wanted to do that. He padded into the kitchen, where Merlin was finishing that day's chilli con carne, and Arthur suddenly wondered if he was back in the 1950s as Merlin turned around, trotted up to him and pecked him on the lips. Arthur's hands settled around Merlin's waist as he noted that Merlin was wearing his frilly white apron. He might have gurgled a little bit.
"Did you mop?" Arthur asked instead, sliding his jacket off and flinging it over the back of the sofa. Having a bigger flat meant more for Merlin to clean now, but he generally did do a very good job and it meant that Arthur had to think of less inane things for him to do throughout the day. Merlin set the table for them, and made to take the apron off. Arthur caught him by the wrist. "Hey, can... Keep it on, Merlin."
Startled, Merlin glanced down at it. "Okay," he said uncertainly, sliding his hands down to press it against his thighs, fingers playing with the ruffles. He looked back up, both of them with an inexplicable tinge of pink high on their cheekbones. Merlin stuttered, "The food will get cold." They both tumbled into their seats.
The film was good and Arthur watched Merlin discuss it with a smile on his lips, commenting on how weak the characterisation of Jane Seymour had been. Merlin stopped abruptly, looking over at Arthur concernedly. "Arthur?"
Arthur moved his hand from the gear stick to lightly squeeze Merlin's and said simply, "Carry on. If I wanted you to stop, I would have said." Merlin smiled at him, the first Merlin-million-watt smile he'd seen in a long while, and Arthur might have melted a little bit inside. As they got home, Arthur paused for a moment. He'd thought about it a long, and there was every possibility that it would all go horribly wrong, but he had to act like he knew what he was doing, or Merlin would become concerned.
"Come on, let's go to bed." Arthur pulled Merlin up the stairs, his heart pounding. Merlin looked a bit surprised - it was still relatively early. Arthur lay back on his back, murmuring in delight as Merlin crawled over him to the other side. Pulling Merlin close, Arthur cuddled them together and leaned into Merlin to kiss him. His kiss was soft and wet and Merlin's mouth was welcoming. Arthur cupped Merlin's jaw, his thumb rubbing over Merlin's cheek as he drew Merlin's lower lip into his mouth and sucked lightly. Merlin's eyes closed, his dark eyelashes fluttering. "Open your eyes," Arthur commanded. "I want to see your eyes." Merlin opened them, rolled his eyes so that he could watch Arthur. Arthur observed Merlin's eyes from up close, seeing how wide they were at the moment, filled with fear and trust. He knew that if he did something that Merlin really didn't like, Merlin would immediately put an end to it, but the way Merlin trusted him to take control gave Arthur the confidence to do it.
Kissing Merlin some more, Arthur rubbed his hands against Merlin's waist, feeling the warmth of his body emanate through his clothes. He shuffled his fingers, rucking up the fabric of Merlin's t-shirt until there was a slither of skin bared. Arthur played the tips of his fingers over that warm, pale skin, and felt Merlin shiver underneath them. He could feel the tiny hairs on Merlin's skin prickle upright, and Arthur found himself pulling the fabric further and further up, until he gave up teasing that little slip of Merlin's skin and just yanked the damn t-shirt off already.
Arthur took the time to look down at Merlin. He was a mess of dark hair and bright eyes set on a canvas of pale skin. Arthur ran his hands all over Merlin's chest, feeling the way it expanded as he breathed. Merlin's breath was shallow at the moment as he watched Arthur in turn.
Leaning back in to continue the kiss, Arthur murmured, "You're gorgeous." It was hardly the first time he'd seen Merlin's chest. They'd grown up together, exchanged boyish locker-room comparisons years ago. Arthur pressed a trail of kisses down Merlin's chest, so familiar but so new.
Arthur stopped at the waistband of Merlin's jeans, nosing them. He hesitated, wondering yet again if it was too much, too fast, not the right time. He rolled his eyes up to look at Merlin, who just lay there with an expectant look on his face. Arthur yanked his jeans off, and the underwear with it. A startled laugh bubbled out of Merlin as his hips jerked and he wriggled, suddenly naked under Arthur.
When friends got changed in front of each other, it was with backs turned, deliberately not looking at all the wrong bits of their body. Arthur blushed at the thought of staring at Merlin with all his clothes off and Merlin blushed at the thought of being stared at. "Stop that," Arthur said, finally, pressing a hand on Merlin's thigh and making him stop moving. "I want to look."
Merlin was skinnier now than before. He only recently started eating more at Arthur's insistence, who had joked that if Merlin didn't eat more, Arthur was going to have to pull up the slack and that would make Arthur fat. Merlin had smiled tentatively, and managed another two spoonfuls. Merlin wasn't nearly as pallid as a couple of months back though. He would always be pale, but at least now he didn't look ill.
No matter what Merlin looked like naked though, Arthur would have still run his hands along his body, enjoying the unbroken line from shoulder down to knee. He could see Merlin tremble with the want to move, uncomfortable and shy with this new development, but there was nothing to say that he wanted to stop. "You're so obedient," Arthur murmured, pressing a kiss to his forehead. It was perhaps the first time they'd mentioned Merlin's deference to Arthur's will so blatantly, but instead of being awkward, the comment made Merlin's face light up with a smile, as if it was a compliment. Maybe it was.
Arthur reached out on impulse, and scratched Merlin's stomach. "Like a kitten," he said, a smirk playing on his lips. "Or a puppy," he added. He liked puppies more. Merlin snorted, but after Arthur's next kiss, he made a tiny little 'whuff' noise. Arthur's brain broke around that point.
"Uuurgh," Arthur groaned, sliding his hands down to grab at Merlin's thigh and arse. "Stop being so irresistible."
Merlin pawed his hands playfully at Arthur's chest, before disobeying a direct order. "No." Arthur didn't mind that much, really. He carried on shamelessly groping Merlin, since from the little pleased huffs coming from Merlin, he didn't mind it at all. It was all new territory, these sort of areas being the ones one did not stare at when a friend was changing. Merlin's arse was smooth, and just right amount of plump, and his thighs were warm and soft, but distinctly not like a girl's. Arthur wanted to lick all up the inside of them and then decided that it was exactly he was going to do.
With a pained groan that had everything to do with not grabbing Arthur's head and begging for more and nothing at all to do with pain, Merlin arched his back as Arthur licked all over him, nibbling and biting and sucking at his flesh. Arthur noted with interest the way Merlin's cock twitched every time he breathed on it. Arthur propped his chin on Merlin's hip, and gently blew on Merlin's cock. Merlin squeaked a bit, and his hands flew to cup over his groin, his ears completely pink.
Arthur was discovering all sorts of adorable things about Merlin recently. He licked one of Merlin's long fingers all the way down. "Shoo," he said lazily. It took a while for Merlin to respond, his face burning, but eventually he moved his hands to rest on the sheets by his hips, his fingers still twitching a bit nervously.
Another puff of breath on Merlin's cock made him squirm, and Arthur pinched a soft bit of his inner thigh, making Merlin squeal like a girl. "I told you to stop moving, didn't I?" Arthur licked his way from the tip of Merlin's cock to the base like he had done to the finger earlier, and Merlin gave an obscene groan that Arthur very much wanted to hear again. Crawling back up the length of Merlin's body, Arthur pressed himself against Merlin, knowing that the rub of his jeans on Merlin's cock must almost hurt.
"I would very much like to have sex with you," Arthur smiled, wiggling his hips between Merlin's legs and pulling them up either side of him. Merlin stared at him, wide-eyed and scared, and Arthur's heart stuttered, hoping desperately that he had judged the tone right. Merlin swallowed, and his mouth dropped half-open, a small moan of unmistakable desire escaping. His legs tightened a tiny bit around Arthur's hips and Arthur pecked Merlin on the lips with relief. I came prepared," he added, fishing around in his pocket for the small packets he had placed in there earlier with trepidation.
Shifting around, Arthur rolled Merlin over and he sprawled on his front before shuffling his knees up so that his arse was in the air and wiggled it. If Arthur had possessed any less self-control, he might have drooled a bit. He self-consciously wiped his mouth just in case anyway. "Shameless," Arthur muttered, ripping apart the first packet and squeezing the smooth liquid onto Merlin's arse. Merlin gasped, the muscles around his hole twitching a bit with the cold, only relaxing as Arthur smeared it around, warming it up.
"Why don't you," Arthur grinned evilly, "prepare yourself?" He sat back, eyeing the delicacy before him as Merlin's face went red again as he slowly reached back with one hand. He hand was soon slick with lube and Arthur watched with shallow breathing as Merlin slid a finger inside himself. Arthur was glad Merlin wasn't watching him, because he felt like a shameless pervert himself, mouth hanging open as quiet moans crawled out of his throat.
Merlin stretched himself expertly and Arthur shuddered at the idea of getting his cock into that tight, wet arsehole, and suddenly decided that he was wearing far too many clothes. He took the time to remove his shirt and jeans, his erect cock getting caught in the waistband of his underwear and bobbing a bit as he freed it, kicking his trousers off. All the while, he kept his eyes on Merlin, stretching himself, pumping his hand as three fingers slid in and out of him.
"Enough," Arthur pulled Merlin's hand away, and a ripple of anticipation fluttered through Merlin. He opened the other packet, hurriedly rolling on a condom before lining himself up to Merlin, all sorts of inadequacy qualms shooting through him as he thought about all of Merlin's past boyfriends. Some of them had been very good-looking, and Merlin had met him looking sex ruffled and pleased before. Arthur bit his lip, and slowly slid himself into Merlin. Now was definitely not the time to be thinking of other men. He started out unbearably slowly to let Merlin get used to it before picking a slight faster pace, rocking Merlin's hips forwards as he thrust.
Merlin panted in front of him, and Arthur tried to tip his hips to get the best angle for Merlin. He knew he found it when Merlin gasped, pushing his arse up to accommodate it. Arthur bit his lip, closing his eyes momentarily to enjoy the hot grip of Merlin's arse around him, wet and slick, loose enough that he didn't have to worry about hurting Merlin, but just tight enough to make him work for it.
Arthur panted, his muscles aching from usage they weren't used to as he stroked Merlin's back, pressing kisses down the knobs of his spine. He kept half an ear out for Merlin as best as he could given that he was thinking with his cock at the moment, judging how much Merlin was enjoying it from the little noises slipping out from the back of his throat. It wasn't until Arthur was close to coming that he noticed that Merlin hadn't touched himself. His hands were curled desperately in the sheets, eyes scrunched closed as he gasped. Arthur flitted one hand near Merlin's cock and he could almost feel Merlin straining, silently begging for a touch. He took his hand away again, and Merlin whimpered.
As the pressure built up low in his belly, Arthur gasped, thrusting faster and harder, the bed creaking a bit underneath them. Merlin's arse contracted around him, and Arthur choked, his careful rhythm falling apart due to Merlin. A few more hard pumps and he was coming inside Merlin in awkward spurts, gasping. Merlin dropped his head to the bed, his arse clenching uncontrollably. Slumping over Merlin, Arthur felt rather than saw Merlin's knees buckle, sliding them both to sprawl over the bed.
Arthur pressed a kiss to Merlin shoulder, and then rolled off so that he was spooned around Merlin's back, where he had a much better view. Merlin's cock was leaking, wet smears on his stomach and the sheets. Merlin was hunched over a bit, hands still firmly away in case he gave in. Arthur massaged his hip with one hand, and whispered in Merlin's ear, "Go on, touch yourself."
A lusty groan ripped out of Merlin's throat as his hands shot to his cock. He gripped himself firmly, tugging with no finesse whatsoever. His hips rocked, his arse rubbing against Arthur's thighs. Arthur stroked his leg, his head propped up on Merlin's shoulder to see properly. Merlin was clearly close, but... Arthur kissed Merlin's neck. "Come for me." That was it. It seemed to take barely any time at all until he came then, hot wet dribbles spluttering out onto his hand and Arthur watched with breath baited. Eventually, Merlin stopped twitching, and Arthur reached over, taking Merlin's hand and slipping the thin fingers into his mouth, swirling his tongue around them as he cleaned Merlin up.
"So..." Arthur started, rolling Merlin around so that he could see his face. "Well?" He was, apparently, as equally inept with words as before. A small blush spread across his cheeks as he struggled not just with the intimacy but being in charge of it.
Merlin chuckled, snuggling in closer to Arthur in his usual position when they slept, and pressed his face into Arthur's neck. "So... well," he repeated with a light teasing tone, pulling the covers over them. Arthur was about to indignantly point out that that wasn't an answer, before realising that it was the first time their interaction had felt familiar since Before. Something tight in his heart that he hadn't even known was there loosened a bit, and Arthur found himself smiling. Arthur shook his head. "Bloody cheek," he sighed, lightly pinching Merlin's thigh again. "You can't speak to me like that."
"I'll speak to you how I want," a tired mumble came from Merlin, and Arthur pulled him more tightly into his arms, knowing that Merlin wouldn't. Adorable indeed.
-
After that, most things stayed the same. Arthur found that nothing turned awkward, as he had feared, and Merlin never seemed to be comparing his performance to past lovers. Merlin's little quick replies started coming back and Arthur grinned, enjoying their exchange of insults. Then he could haul Merlin's arse into bed and make him pay for calling him things like 'clotpole'.
Aside from their little acts though, Arthur was secretly relieved that Merlin seemed to be regaining his independence, his ability to think for himself and an interest in having an opinion. It felt like getting his best friend back. Merlin was getting better marks for his essays now too, and actually showing an interest in his degree again. On top of that though, Arthur was glad that he didn't have to make decisions for Merlin anymore. He wasn't sure that he was making the right decisions for himself, let alone another person too. He'd always thought that once Merlin was 'back', he'd stop ordering him around. Somehow, that hadn't changed though, and Arthur found that now there wasn't the pressure of having to do it, he quite liked ordering Merlin around. It was a game now, he realised.
A few weeks later though, there seemed to be a little thrum of excitement coming from Merlin as he served up dinner. Arthur raised an eyebrow at the welcome home kiss, which was a little sloppier than usual, but didn't ask. Merlin would no doubt reveal whatever it was in due time. They retreated to the living room, Arthur switching on the news. Merlin sat on the floor instead of next to Arthur. He'd been playing up the act ever since the offhand 'puppy' comment, and Arthur was uncommonly glad that he'd dared to say it. Now, Merlin lolled his head on Arthur's thigh, his body tucked up against Arthur's leg. His face split into a wolfish grin as he nuzzled Arthur's leg, and Arthur reached out to ruffle his hair. All Merlin needed was a little tail that thumped against the rug, he thought in amusement.
Arthur got his wish that night. Merlin crawled into bed naked, his now preferred state for cuddling and other things, flopping all over him exactly like an oversized puppy, and then licked his lips nervously. Arthur looked at him, his eyebrow raised again. "Can you close your eyes?" Merlin fidgeted. Arthur did after a moment. He could hear a clunk noise from Merlin's side of the bed and some shifting around. He guessed that Merlin had opened his bedside drawer, curiosity piquing. After another moment, Merlin said breathlessly, "Okay."
Arthur opened his eyes and looked around. Merlin looked nervously at him. He hadn't got off the bed, so Arthur focussed his attention on Merlin's body itself. He frowned - was there something sticking out behind Merlin's back? "Are you holding something behind your back?" Merlin held out his hands: nothing. Arthur reached out, rolling Merlin onto his front and staring. It took him a moment to understand what it was, since all he could see was sleek fluff. Merlin raised his arse into the air and shook it, and realisation dawned.
"It's... a tail," Arthur said wonderingly, reaching out to sift his fingers through it. It was about the length of his hand, and incredibly soft. He rubbed at the point where it joined Merlin's arse, and realised that it was actually a butt plug. "That is kinky," he stated, slightly breathless. What he meant was that that it was both horrendously hot and cute at the same time, and he didn't really know how to react.
Merlin whuffled at him, shaking his arse again so that the tail thumped against his arse and thighs, and nuzzled at Arthur's thigh. "I like," Arthur said firmly, leaning down to kiss Merlin, tugging his hair and reaching down to rotate the butt plug. Merlin's eyes radiated relief, even as he moaned when Arthur twisted it.
Scratching Merlin's stomach and watching Merlin curl his arms up in front like a puppy, Arthur pulled his own clothes off. Merlin was eyeing Arthur's cock with interest as it twitched, and Athur supposed that he had better reward Merlin for such a good idea. "Open up," he drawled, straddling Merlin's shoulders, holding out his cock. Merlin licked his lips, and slipped Arthur's cock into his mouth as far as he could. Merlin's mouth was hot and wet, and his tongue was sliding slowly against him. He rolled his hips slowly, enjoying the difference between this and being inside Merlin's arse.
Damn, Merlin was good at this. He rolled his eyes up to look at Arthur, somehow managing to stay wide-eyed and innocent even as he slurped a bit. Arthur groaned as Merlin licked up the underside of his cock, his tongue poking out lewdly before popping the tip back into his mouth again. Merlin sucked, applying pressure by hollowing his cheeks, and Arthur shoved his hips forwards. He felt Merlin's throat constrict, and pulled back just before he gagged.
Fisting Merlin's hair, Arthur began to fuck Merlin's mouth in earnest, loving how Merlin adjusted underneath him, relaxing his throat and groaning as Arthur rammed forwards. At some point though, Arthur thought that it was a shame that he couldn't see his present, and climbed off Merlin. Merlin looked at him with those big eyes, as if asking if he'd done something wrong, and Arthur bent down quickly, kissing him and tasting himself.
Turning around, Arthur heard Merlin make an 'oomph!' noise as Arthur lay on top of him, his face now conveniently parallel with Merlin's cock. "What have we here?" Arthur stroked it with the tip of one finger, and Merlin growled. He always grumped when Arthur teased his body like that, but Arthur knew that he shamelessly enjoyed it. Arthur felt Merlin's hands on his thighs, easing him over just a bit so that Merlin could Arthur's cock back into his mouth again. He hummed his approval: it felt strange but definitely not unwelcome at this angle.
Arthur leaned forward, and gently sucked at the tip of Merlin's cock as if it was a lollipop, and Merlin gasped and jerked. His tail swished enticingly. Arthur watched the way the fur played over his arse, and had an idea. He attacked Merlin's cock, engulfing it in his mouth in one go with no warning, and Merlin yipped, his hips rising up. Thankfully, Arthur thought that might happen, and pinned him down using both hands. Merlin's legs, already cocked up, flailed in every which way, and his tail flicked up and down as they bounced a bit on the mattress.
Arthur wasn't relenting though. He was intent on giving Merlin the blowjob of his life, licking and sucking as Merlin flailed. He felt the most amazing vibrations up his own cock as Merlin moaned around him, too distracted by Arthur to do too much on his end. Arthur resorted to gripping Merlin's thighs with his hands, before was knocked up by a thrashing limb, and Merlin whimpered as his movement was restricted. He could barely buck up into Arthur's mouth anymore, and Arthur liked it that way. He could feel Merlin's muscles start to tense as the pleasure started to overtake him, and his cock hung in Merlin's limp mouth.
Although they'd never spoken about it, Merlin had only ever come after Arthur had encouraged him to, told him to. Arthur let Merlin gasp, eyes rolling back as he waited for the permission that Arthur wasn't giving just yet. "Arthur," Merlin choked, "Arthur, Arthur, please." Arthur carried on, ignoring him for a moment, letting Merlin beg. He liked it.
"You aren't doing your job," Arthur paused long enough to say before sliding the entirety of Merlin's length into his mouth again. He heard Merlin whine in frustration before trying to concentrate. Arthur let Merlin take him all the way in, before running his tongue delicately over Merlin's slit. He felt Merlin choke around him, wet and tight, and grinned. It wasn't fair play at all, Arthur knew. He let Merlin carry on trying to suppress his orgasm, distracting him each time Merlin started to make headway on sucking Arthur off in return. He made sure never to go so far that Merlin involuntarily bit him, or choked for real, and as Merlin's cock started to leak, his body a complete wreck from holding back, Arthur pinched him on the thigh to get his attention. "Come on, Merlin, come for me."
Merlin let out a cry of relief, wetly sliding Arthur's cock out of his mouth as he moaned like a whore, entire body trying to rise off the bed as he came. His tail whisked about in the air. Arthur tasted the hot liquid in his mouth, sucking as Merlin spasmed and swallowing it. Merlin whined, his breath coming out wheezy as he could finally relax. His cock started to go soft in Arthur's mouth, and he let it slide out.
Merlin made to finish Arthur off, and Arthur climbed off Merlin with a grin, surveying his work. It had been a job well done, as Merlin lay curled on his back, breathless and boneless and as cute as a puppy. Arthur reached over, and pulled the butt plug that had been the evening's inspiration out, putting it on the side and petting the fur once again, before replacing it with his cock to finish the job.
Having been prepared by the butt plug, Merlin's arse was stretched and ready, but tight enough that Merlin moaned, his legs falling apart for Arthur. Merlin lay limp, his face flushed with sweat as Arthur did all the work, propping himself on his arms and sliding in and out. He went slowly, adding to Merlin's post-coital haze instead of taking from it. The sweet tightness of Merlin's arse was what did it, Arthur growling softly at first and then more fiercely as the pressure built. He gripped Merlin's arse, pulling it up as he finally came, spilling his load inside Merlin.
They curled up together, Merlin still luxuriously limp and pliant, his arse sticky with Arthur's come. "Good purchase, I approve," Arthur finally yawned, stroking Merlin's hair. Merlin grizzled sleepily at him. He really was such a good puppy.
-
Arthur's sex life seemed to escalate from there, and he wondered how he had managed to be satisfied for so long with having the sort of control in bed he did with Merlin. Both of them had been with previous partners before each other, but it seemed as though they were exploring their new world together, tentatively but with enough confidence to share their wants with each other.
After Merlin had bought the butt plug, Arthur reckoned that it was his turn. He bought Merlin a set of restraints, Velcro in case anything went wrong. He was getting tired from trying to pin Merlin down each time. He tried them out on his own wrist, seeing how easy it would be to rip them off, and briefly wondered whether he might like to use them himself sometimes. The next thing Merlin had bought had been a sleek vibrator. He'd shyly handed Arthur the wireless remote and Arthur had rewarded him by keeping him aroused and helpless, shifting restlessly in a chair for almost an hour in a café when he met Arthur on his lunch break.
They tried other things too, apart from the toys. Merlin's control over his orgasms improved, as Arthur refused to let him come. Arthur loved to hear Merlin beg, and Merlin loved it when Arthur took him without enough preparation. Every time they tried something new though, Arthur's heart would pound with worry. He would turn the situation around in his head, around and upside-down and every which way he could imagine, wondering if Merlin would really like it, if it wasn't too much.
One night, they lay curled up together just chatting, and Merlin let Arthur pet him. "Arthur," his voice rang in the darkness. "I like doing things with you. I like it when you're in control, and if something genuinely scares me, I'll tell you." He pressed a kiss to Arthur's cheek, and Arthur realised that Merlin was the one who dictated everything really. Merlin was the one foremost in his mind when he ordered him about. Arthur felt the burden lift off his shoulders, and hid his smile in Merlin's hair. He always knew the right thing to say.
Sometimes, they didn't like to use words. Merlin shuffled backwards on the bed, scooting until his back was against the headboard and toed off his socks. The bed wobbled as Arthur pounced onto it, and he flushed at the heated look of desire on Arthur's face. Arthur crawled up between Merlin's legs, pushing his knees further apart and trailing his fingers firmly up his legs. Arthur's strong fingers gripped Merlin's thighs, feeling the muscle underneath twitch slightly in anticipation. Merlin kept his hands firmly fisted in the pillows either side of his hips, knowing that Arthur didn't want any help at the moment.
Arthur growled, attacking Merlin's mouth with his own. He pressed their lips together, forcing Merlin's head back until he bumped the wall; it felt like Arthur was trying to push him right through the wall. Arthur alternately nipped and lapped at Merlin's lips until they were red and swollen, kissing him hard enough that it hurt.
As Merlin was preoccupied with his mouth, Arthur flicked open the lube, slicking his fingers up. He pressed his finger against Merlin for just a moment, giving him just enough time to realise what was happening before slipping his finger in. He felt Merlin's body clench around him in surprise and he took advantage of the gasp that ripped out of Merlin to further force his mouth open. His tongue claimed Merlin's mouth, roughly tracing over his teeth and wrestling with Merlin's tongue.
Arthur could feel Merlin try not to squirm by the tension in his hips as he stretched him, swirling his finger around before adding another one just prematurely enough for it to burn. Sure enough, Merlin's hips hitched up, his body reacting instinctively with a whimper before Arthur grabbed him roughly around hips, fingers digging into the soft flesh of his arse and forcing him down.
Feeling Merlin's body spasm as it fought to accommodate him, Arthur pulled his fingers out wetly and lined up his cock. He pushed in slowly, knowing that Merlin wasn't quite stretched enough and head Merlin gasp into the pillow. Arthur let him have a moment to adjust before pulling out and thrusting in as hard and fast as if Merlin was loose and ready. Arthur picked a fast pace and Merlin's body bucked, instinctively trying to get away from the pain.
To stop him, Arthur pinned him down in place, gasping at how hot and tight Merlin's hole was. He rubbed his cock against Merlin's prostate repeatedly and relished how pathetically Merlin mewled at him. Merlin's cock was hard from the friction as Arthur's stomach slid against it and his hands were fisted into the pillows around him as he tried not to touch himself.
Arthur kissed Merlin again, forcing his mouth wider and taking what he wanted, his fingers pinching at Merlin's nipples. He liked how Merlin moved beneath him, constantly struggling to get away and yet pliant and eager for more. He was going to come soon, and Arthur slammed his hips into the back of Merlin's thighs, his muscles tensing as he shot off his load into Merlin's arse, hot and sudden, and felt Merlin's arse clench at the sensation.
Going a little slower now and gasping, Arthur finally pulled out, smearing his come across Merlin's thighs and arse, and settled on the bed next to Merlin. Merlin rolled his eyes to stare at him, a silent plea. Arthur flitted his fingers across Merlin's erection, stimulating but not enough. Arthur could feel Merlin getting closer as he traced his finger up the vein, rolled his fingertip over the head of Merlin's cock and smeared pre-come down the length of Merlin. Suddenly, he gripped Merlin's cock tightly, pumping it as fast as he could and Merlin's back arched in preparation. Just as Merlin was going to come though, Arthur pulled his hand off and Merlin cried out in loss, rolling his hips to try and encourage Arthur to make him come.
Arthur ignored him though, pressing little kisses to his neck, and stroking his hands down Merlin's back, soothing him. Merlin pouted at him and Arthur sucked his lower lip into his mouth, running his tongue along it. Arthur took his time, kissing and licking the light sheen of sweat off Merlin's skin.
As soon as he could again, Arthur panted, lining his half hard cock up and sliding into Merlin easily this time. Merlin whined at him, but sank back against the headboard again as Arthur started thrusting again. He let Merlin gasp and attempt to buck his hips for more before he gripped Merlin's cock again, this time stroking him until Merlin dropped his head backwards, hitting it lightly against the wall and shoved his hips upwards, coming all over Arthur's hand. Merlin moaned, squirming as his over-sensitive body was taken by Arthur still palming his cock, still sliding his own cock against Merlin's prostate for the second time, his tongue teasing across Merlin's skin.
Arthur took advantage of Merlin's limp and boneless state to pound him into the bed, swallowing Merlin's cries out of his mouth. Merlin's cock grew hard helplessly under Arthur's ministrations. Arthur claimed Merlin for himself that night, pushing him beyond what his body was used to. Merlin was unable to move after so much sex, twitching away from Arthur's touch even as he moaned into it. Arthur was using his fingers now, completely spent himself, stroking, teasing that little spot inside Merlin. Merlin's body shook at the peak of his pleasure, his cock leaking but unable to release any more and Arthur finally, finally released him. Merlin slumped against the headboard, his entire body shaking a bit.
Putting two fingers beneath his chin, Arthur tipped his head up to see Merlin's eyes unfocussed, streaky trails down his face where he had cried, his mind unable to catch up to his body's confusion at the switching between denial and forced orgasms. Arthur gathered Merlin into his arms and let Merlin sag against him, pressing their bodies as close together as he could. "So good," Arthur murmured, and felt Merlin press a light kiss to his shoulder in thanks. "You liked that, didn't you? Me taking your body further than you could." Merlin nodded a little, and Arthur rocked Merlin reassuringly. "I'll find more ways," he whispered.
-
Finally, of course, they had to talk about it. Arthur came home one day to find that Merlin had finished his list for the day and was rearranging Arthur's bookcase. It was actually full of books now - Merlin's books. He looked around, seeing all the extra things that Merlin must have moved in today. "Wow."
Merlin noticed up and a smile lit up his face. He sidled up to Arthur, nuzzling his nose, which was what he did when he hoped that Arthur would kiss him. Arthur gave him a distracted peck, and noticed Merlin's coats on the coathanger by the door. "You're moving in?" Merlin straightened up, stepping back and looking around too.
"Well, I already live here," he said with a frown. Merlin licked his lips. "You don't like it. I'll take it all back." He ducked his head and moved towards the bookcase again.
"What? Stop." Arthur grabbed Merlin by the wrist, and Merlin automatically stilled, hunched over and waiting for Arthur. Arthur pulled him in. "Why are you assuming I don't like it?" He demanded.
Merlin looked carefully at him. "You didn't kiss me properly."
With a sigh, Arthur pulled him into a firm kiss. "I was just surprised. But you're right, you basically live here anyway, so there's no reason this shouldn't be your home too." He sat down on the sofa, waiting for Merlin to flop down next to him, and added, "I guess it was just never so... official."
Merlin did sit down eventually, but it was carefully, and measured, and he sat right on the edge of the sofa. Arthur looked at him, and pressed a hand to his cheek fondly. "I always thought that when you 'got better', everything would stop, it would go back to how it used to be," he remarked. He'd had a lot of time to think about this. "But now you are better, and we're still doing this." Merlin looked at him warily. "I like it, Merlin. I like it a lot," Arthur said it like a confession, even though it must have been clear that he enjoyed what they did.
Merlin smiled, ducking his head shyly at the thought of some of the things they had done. "I don't want you to have to if you don't want to," he said simply.
Sidling closer, Arthur wrapped his arms around Merlin, forcibly pulling him until Merlin was leaning on his chest. "I want to. I want you. I want you all the ways you like it. I want you..." He paused before saying the word, his voice a low growl that left no doubt as to how much he liked it, "I want you submissive." Merlin shivered in his arms, and nodded, his body slack with relief. Arthur smiled down at him, glad that he had conquered his own doubtful thoughts on it. The arrangement clearly made Merlin happy, and above all, that was what he wanted.
-
"I have to leave, or I'll be late," Arthur whispered into Merlin's ear. Merlin's only reply was to grunt, and snuffle his nose closer to Arthur's neck.
Arthur smiled before easing himself out of the bed to get ready for work. As he came out of their en-suite bathroom, a toothbrush in his mouth as he simultaneously tried to get dressed, he noticed that Merlin was now curled around Arthur's pillow, head buried in the scent of him. Finally adjusting his tie, Arthur slid a hand up the warmth of Merlin's thigh, squeezing lightly just to hear Merlin's little hum of pleasure before whispering, "I expect dinner to be ready when I'm home tonight. Cook me something with chicken."
When he returned that evening, Arthur toed off his shoes and sniffed, trying to guess what the aromas in the air were. His stomach rumbled accordingly, clearly pleased that there seemed to be food ready. By the time he'd slung his tie around the banister, he was leaning towards breaded chicken with gravy and mash. Perfect.
It had taken Arthur a while - a long while - to realise that their little domestic routine was part of their game. He'd heard of people who played games in bed, but he and Merlin were in their roles all the time. He liked having Merlin as the sweet domestic partner, and Merlin liked welcoming him home every day. It was a game, indeed, a game where they pretended that Merlin needed Arthur's guidance for twenty-four hours of a day, but at the same time, it was the reality of their relationship. It was what worked for them.
Skidding into the kitchen - he was pleased to note that Merlin had evidently mopped - Arthur padded in. "Honey, I'm home," he quipped, wrapping his arms around Merlin's waist. He pressed a kiss to his boyfriend's cheekbone before surveying the mess in front of them. It appeared that the kitchen had been breaded along with the chicken. "I hope you're cleaning that up. I'd hate to have breadcrumbs everywhere the next time we have sex in the kitchen."
" 'Lo," Merlin said, dishing out portions of peas before squirming around and tilting his chin forward a bit, demanding kisses. Arthur eyed his lips for a moment, letting them turn into a pout before obliging. He noticed then that his hands were on Merlin's bare waist, and stepped back, surveying Merlin more carefully. Merlin always wore the frilly apron now, but Arthur choked a little when he realised that Merlin was in fact wearing nothing else at all.
Arthur swivelled Merlin around to admire the view, and choked again. He corrected himself - Merlin was wearing nothing but the apron and his tail. Gathering Merlin into his arms again, his hand fondled the tail behind Merlin's back. "Perfect thing to come home to," he said huskily, feeling the press of Merlin's cock against the apron. He looked at Merlin, so calm and so happy, and kissed him. Merlin slid his hands up to curl into Arthur's shirt and leaned into him, kissing him back.
All of a sudden, Arthur realised that he didn't come home to a boyfriend who trusted him and enjoyed letting him take control, or a gorgeous puppy who was well-trained and fantastic in bed. He didn't come home to have to look after Merlin, or make sure that he had behaved that day. He didn't even come home to an adoring partner and best friend who complimented his strengths and covered his weaknesses. Merlin was home.