Don't Be Hasty 1/2
Title: Don't Be Hasty (1/2)
Author: shesashewolf
Fandom: Merlin
Characters: Merlin/Arthur
Rating: NC-17
Warning: Language, mature material
Disclaimer: Characters are property of BBC and no profit is being made.
Summary: Grocery Stores, Stupidness, and Love
Cross-posted at merlinxarthur
Just as he was leaving work, Morgana had sent him a text. The message was a simple, “get dessert”. And, with that in mind, Arthur left the office and headed towards the nearest grocery. He really hates these family meals that she insists upon. The dinner always dissolves into some form of battle between Morgana and Uther. Worst of all, the only time the two agree during the meal is when the topic focuses on how disappointing Arthur’s personal life appears to be shaping up.
Arthur pulls into the first free spot in the car park and quickly shut off the engine. Hopping out of the car, he shoves the keys into his pocket and heads into the store. He’s never been into this particular store, too far from his flat, but it seems just the same, all bright lights and pleasant background music. Bypassing the trolleys and grabbing a plastic basket, he heads toward the frozen section.
Morgana always gives his a hard time about his selections. She complains about sugar and calorie content and how he should pay more attention to his purchases - that he wouldn’t be fat if he dieted correctly. He most definitely isn’t fat, or even pudgy for that matter, and certainly doesn’t understand why the witch would ask him to grab the dessert if that’s how she really felt. Pushing aside all thoughts of stupid half-sisters and their stupid comments, he picks up one of those frozen, pre-made pies that he likes and shoves it into the basket.
Arthur spends a little more time in the store, checking out a sale on raisin biscuits, before deciding there aren’t any other purchases he wants to make. Heading towards the registers, he accidently bumps into someone turning the corner. “God, I’m sorry, friend!” The other man apologizes as he moves the trolley, full of stock, that’s just hit Arthur. “I should have looked where I was going!” The man is thin with dark hair and the trademark blue button-up that the store makes the employees wear. Arthur probably should be yelling, calling the bloke an ‘utter idiot’ but all he can do is stare at the bright blue eyes that now focus on him.
The employee smiles and shifts his weight awkwardly when Arthur doesn’t say anything. “Can I - um, do you need any help?” He asks hesitantly.
“Yeah... Brussels Sprouts, can you tell me where those are?” Arthur thinks quickly and gives the chap his best smile.
The employee laughs and returns a genuine smile. “I’m afraid you’re in the wrong area. Sprouts are in the produce section - other side of the market.” He gestures towards his left, indicating the direction Arthur should head. “They’re usually against the wall with the other greens. Anything else you need?”
‘I wouldn’t be adverse to your number.’ Arthur thinks but before he can say anything smart or flirty, a voice breaks out on the overhead.
“Merlin to the front. Merlin for customer service.”
The announcement rings out and the other man shrinks back subconsciously. “That’s me.” He sighs, pointing towards the tag hanging from his shirt, which states Merlin in bold black lettering. “Was there anything else you needed help with?” He asks again and Arthur shakes his head. “Well, have a good night, sir. And, sorry about the whole nearly running you over thing.” With one last, bashful look, he turns and pushes the trolley of overstock back to the front of the store.
Arthur isn’t sure what makes him pick up a bundle of Brussels Sprouts; he’s even more confused when he actually pays for the balls of green disgustingness. And, he’s sure Morgana will have a comment when she sees them. But, that doesn’t matter, the only thing that matters is the smile he receives from Merlin on his way out of the store.
“Thank you for shopping, come again.” He’s sure the boy says the line hundreds of times per night, but there is something genuine in his tone. Arthur decides that maybe he will be coming back.
- -
Arthur visits the market again on Sunday, a bounce in his step as he moves between the sliding doors. The grocery hasn’t changed at all - people scuttling, music playing, lights glaring. He can’t help but check around the registers first, hoping to spot a familiar head of dark hair. He’s a bit annoyed when he doesn’t see Merlin but continues to keep an eye out as he does some shopping.
After half an hour, he decides that he’s wasted a sufficient amount of time looking for that particular employee and brings his items to the check out. He resolves to try again tomorrow before trudging out of the store.
- -
“They don’t have some sort of machine to help you with this?” Arthur calls as he gets out of his car and sees Merlin attempting to push a row of seven trolleys back towards the entrance of the market.
“No, this is far more fancy.” Merlin laughs and gestures to a long black tether in his hand. The rope has a hook that attaches to the front trolley and keeps the rest secured to it.
“That looks like a total pain in the arse.” Arthur says as he approaches the other man. Merlin shoves some dark fringe out of his eyes and leans against the line of trolleys. He looks a bit silly with the neon safety vest over his jumper but Arthur finds it more endearing than anything.
Merlin’s smile is gentle and makes his eyes crinkle in the most adorable manner. If Arthur wasn’t a total stranger, and in the middle of a dark, nearly empty car park, he would have given in to the urge to snog Merlin senseless. “It’s not too bad. I just hate trolley duty on nights like tonight - it’s too cold.” The dark haired man sighs before slipping his hands out of his pockets and placing one against the plastic-covered steering bar of the last trolly.
Arthur can’t help but notice how red Merlin’s hands look. ‘He’d probably lose his fingers in this late autumn chill.’ Arthur quickly tugs his own gloves off and slips them into Merlin’s unoccupied hand. “Here, you need these more than I do right now.”
Merlin stares at the lump of black fabric balled in his hand. “I cannot take your gloves.” He tries to shove them back at Arthur but the blond shakes his head and refuses them.
“I won’t be a bystander as you freeze to death.” He smirks. “Just wear them till you remember to grab a decent pair for yourself, fool.” He’s satisfied when he watches Merlin slip the gloves on, covering long, delicate fingers with warm black fabric.
“You’re a regular knight in shining armor.” Merlin grins and Arthur can’t help feeling a little light-headed and pleased with himself. “I owe you one.”
- -
Arthur doesn’t go to the store for the next five days. His week consists of quick trips to the local grocery and extraordinary amounts of take away. The lack of Merlin-spotting has a frightening effect on his mood. By the time Friday comes around, even some of his coworkers begin noticing how sullen he seems.
Lance finally decides to broach the subject as they head out of the office Friday evening. The two had met in uni and become fast friends, even took jobs at the same company; it was no surprise that Lance would be the one person in the office courageous enough to ask Arthur what was making him act like such a prat. “So, are you going to tell me?” At Arthur’s questioning glance he continues. “You have been a complete twit all week, something has to be the matter. Is it the O’Neill project or something?”
“Yeah, I mean, yes - the project’s been wearing on me some. It’ll be fine once everything is finalized on Monday.” Arthur’s response comes out a bit preoccupied and he barely notices the door in front of him. Luckily, Lance is there to swiftly grasp the handle and keep Arthur from smashing his nose into the glass front.
When they reach the car park, Arthur continues walking towards his car. Lance hesitates, car parked in the opposite direction. “Do you want to go to Rafters and grab a pint or two? You look like you could use it,” he says hesitantly.
Arthur turns to face the other man but continues walking backwards. “I can’t tonight, got a few errands to run. Tomorrow?” Arthur musters a reassuring smile and tugs his tie loose from the collar of his white button-up.
“Yeah, just give me a ring whenever.” Lance waves him off and the two head in their separate directions.
- -
Arthur feels bad about the way he pushed Lance aside, but he hasn’t seen Merlin in a while... and he does actually need groceries. Arthur might be going crazy, but he’s sure there is a deep-rooted connection. It is probably a bit creepy to drive nearly fifteen minutes out of his way to see a stranger, but there is something about Merlin.
‘Besides,’ He thinks, steering his car into the shopping-center car park, ‘it can’t be considered stalking if you just happen to be in the same place at the same time... right?’ He quickly scans the outside, seeing if Merlin is collecting trolleys. When he doesn’t see the dark haired man, he bustles into the grocery to escape the biting winter chill.
Arthur pulls at the metal bar of one of the trolleys and it comes loose easily. He’d decided to make a shopping list earlier, with all the Merlin-pondering that’s filled his head. Arthur glances at the crumpled piece of paper, a bit of his personal work stationary, and embarks on his journey around the store. Eventually, he brings his neat sum of items to the register. He hasn’t seen Merlin yet and it makes him frown as he unloads his items onto the conveyor belt.
The cashier barely looks up as he begins to ring up the purchases and Arthur wastes no time stuffing items into the canvas bags he’d brought into the store with him. “I can help bag, if you’d like.” Someone says over his shoulder. Arthur turns quickly and is greeted by a smiling Merlin.
“Yeah, thanks.” A goofy grin slips across Arthur’s face before he can school his features into something that exuded less manic excitement. He shifts back to the cashier. The bloke gives him a bored glance and announcing the amount due. Arthur pays quickly before turning back to Merlin.
“Will, I’ll be right back - I’m just going to help him to the car.” Merlin’s finished packing the last of the items and picks up two bags, leaving the other three for Arthur to carry out. He turns quickly, not waiting for a response from the cashier, and heads towards the door. Arthur hefts the three bags off the register and hurries after the other man.
As they walk through the automatic doors, Merlin turns to Arthur. “I’m not technically supposed to be helping customers to their cars - not unless they have multiple trolleys.” He winks and Arthur’s heart flutters in his chest. Merlin makes a beeline towards Arthur’s car, not even asking where it was parked. “Don’t think I’m mad or anything... I just noticed your car last time you were here,” He says as he stops by the boot, waiting for Arthur to unlock it.
Arthur laughs as he struggles to pull keys from his coat pocket. “I’ll try not to be too alarmed.” The two make quick work of piling all the bags into the boot and Arthur pushes the hood closed.
They stand in awkward silence for a moment before Merlin finally moves. “Well, I’d better head back in.” He gestures towards the store.
“Thanks for your help.” Arthur replies, walking around the car towards the driver’s side. He’s about to get into the car when he hears Merlin call out.
“Shit, sorry, I forgot!” Merlin trots over to him. “I’ve been meaning to give these back to you but haven’t seen you around.” He extends his hand, offering the gloves Arthur had given him the previous week.
“Yeah,” he explains as he takes the gloves, “work’s been a bloody menace. Haven’t had time for any grocery runs, sorry.” Arthur slips the gloves into his pocket and gives Merlin a bit of a coy smile. He isn’t quite sure why apologizing seems to be the right thing to do.
Merlin slips his hands into his pockets and rocks forward on his toes. “It’s no problem! Have a good weekend...?”
“Arthur.”
“Arthur.” A bit of hair falls into Merlin’s eyes as he returns Arthur’s shy smile. “Have a good weekend, Arthur.” His voice is soft and sincere and Arthur just wants to hold on to him and never let go.
- -
Lance and Arthur have a long talk in the pub on Saturday night. He admits to his strange fascination, Merlin the adorable grocery clerk, with some trepidation about his friend’s reaction. Lance berates him for his obsessive, stalker-like tendencies but, to his credit, ends up supporting Arthur’s infatuation. Lance’s encouragement is the reason Arthur finds himself freshly showered, in his favorite jeans and best jumper, driving to the grocery store.
Arthur jogs into the market and heads straight for the store’s front end. He marches up to the Customer Service counter and asks if Merlin is working. A curly haired girl with the name tag Gwen stands behind the counter. She grins before picking up a black phone and calling for Merlin on the overhead.
Arthur waits only a few minutes before Merlin enters the main floor through a door labeled ‘staff’. Merlin looks a bit confused at first but smiles when the girl gestures towards the man waiting nearby. “Arthur, hi! Everything alright?”
Arthur notices the girl behind the counter is watching their interaction. “Do you have a moment?” Nervousness sets in and Arthur can’t help but run a hand through his hair.
“Yeah, I’m on break.” The two walk away from their audience at the customer service desk. “What’s up?” Merlin asks when they reach a more quiet section of the front end.
“I come in here all the time.” Arthur pauses. “And, I bought Brussels Sprouts of all things - I hate Brussels Sprouts! And, I mean, I fancy you... you know, and I think you like me as well, I think and... I just, I mean, will you go out with me?” Arthur feels like a complete prat but he still manages the ability to look Merlin in the eye after his lame proposition.
Merlin laughs, “Thank god! I was sure I was being stupid and imagining things.” He smiles brightly and takes Arthur by surprise when he says, “Give me your mobile and I’ll message my number.” Merlin pulls out his phone and quickly types in Arthur’s number before sending a text. Arthur feels and hears the familiar hum of his phone inside his trouser pocket. “I have to get back but message me whenever.” Merlin gives one more dazzling smile and the two part ways.
- -
It’s half past five the following weekend and Arthur sits inside a downtown coffee shop. He hasn’t been waiting long but he can’t help fidgeting some. He isn’t quite sure if he should take off his jacket and grab a drink or just keep waiting for his companion. Before he can make up his mind, Merlin walks into the shop and looks around. Spotting Arthur, he gives a shy wave before walking over to the small table Arthur is saving.
The two quickly order their drinks, talking amiable the entire time. “So, Brussels Sprouts?” Merlin questions as he removes his winter layers - Arthur can’t help but notice how slim he really is without his work kit or baggy jacket. “I didn’t realize I warranted such expensive purchases.” He smirks before taking his seat opposite Arthur.
“I’ll have you know that they weren’t even on sale.” Arthur sniffs and Merlin breaks out into a peel of laughter.
- -
His name is Harry, short for Harry Potter. Arthur and Merlin have been together for nearly two weeks when Arthur is finally introduced to Harry. Arthur’s a bit jealous when he sees the way Merlin looks at Harry. The way all his attention is devoted elsewhere. The way Harry is sprawled out on Merlin’s couch as if he owns the whole flat.
All is forgiven, however, when Harry ambles over, tail wagging, and begins to lick Arthur’s hands enthusiastically.
- - -
Arthur shoves Merlin against the brick wall, letting his fingers creep under Merlin’s coat and beyond. Harry’s leash tangles around their feet but neither are concerned. “Stay at my place tonight?” Arthur asks, nipping at the side of Merlin’s neck.
“Can’t.” Merlin pants, clutching Arthur tightly. “Need - Harry - home.” Merlin says the words between kisses, meeting Arthur’s warm mouth harshly. “I have school in the morning - and work.” He finally gets a sentence out and Arthur pulls back, looking at his mussed and adorable boyfriend.
“Okay, yeah, I’ll drive you both home.” Arthur sighs and presses one last kiss to Merlin’s lips before stepping back and untangling himself from the mess of Harry’s leash.
- -
Arthur knew there was a small age gap, that Merlin is only in his second year of school, but he never thought that would be a problem. It is so small in the grand scheme. To learn that three years is what’s holding Merlin back - to know that a comment by one of Merlin’s friends was the reason their love life is basically at a stand still... Arthur was floored.
“Will was just saying that he doesn’t think we’re a good match.” Merlin worries his hands and refuses to look at Arthur. “Developmental stages and things... you and I are at two different points in our lives.” He shifts on Arthur’s couch, discomfort written all over. “I mean, you’ve got a career and a life... I’ve got a shitty job and -”
“I don’t give a fuck about developmental stages.” Arthur grabs Merlin and immediately cuts off whatever the other man was going to say. “I love you.” He’s said it before, but, as he presses his lips to Merlin’s, he knows that this is the first time he’s ever meant it.
- -
“Arthur!” Merlin gasps, eyes pressed shut and hands clenching in fistfuls of blond hair. Arthur smirks as he licks at Merlin’s penis. Sucking and slurping enthusiastically, he relishes every sigh and moan that escapes from Merlin’s mouth.
Merlin’s beautiful, all long limbs and pale skin. Arthur grasps Merlin’s waist tightly when the brunets legs rise and clench around his head.
“Damn, Arthur, thank God!” Merlin yelps when Arthur applies more suction to the tip. It doesn’t take long for Merlin to start thrashing, nearly taking Arthur’s head off with a swift jerk of his leg. “Fuck - thank, uh, thank you!” Merlin comes, back arching at an impossible angle. Arthur continues sucking, taking as much of Merlin’s seed as possible. The two collapse onto the bed, Merlin flat and languid, Arthur sprawled over him.
After a beat, Arthur lifts his head to glance at his dazed boyfriend. “Thank you?” He snorts, taking in Merlin’s pleased smile. “That was your great declaration of passion?” Arthur pulls him closer, wrapping Merlin securely in his arms. “Idiot.”
“Prat.” Merlin murmurs in reply before they fall into a contented sleep.
TBC
Author: shesashewolf
Fandom: Merlin
Characters: Merlin/Arthur
Rating: NC-17
Warning: Language, mature material
Disclaimer: Characters are property of BBC and no profit is being made.
Summary: Grocery Stores, Stupidness, and Love
Cross-posted at merlinxarthur
Just as he was leaving work, Morgana had sent him a text. The message was a simple, “get dessert”. And, with that in mind, Arthur left the office and headed towards the nearest grocery. He really hates these family meals that she insists upon. The dinner always dissolves into some form of battle between Morgana and Uther. Worst of all, the only time the two agree during the meal is when the topic focuses on how disappointing Arthur’s personal life appears to be shaping up.
Arthur pulls into the first free spot in the car park and quickly shut off the engine. Hopping out of the car, he shoves the keys into his pocket and heads into the store. He’s never been into this particular store, too far from his flat, but it seems just the same, all bright lights and pleasant background music. Bypassing the trolleys and grabbing a plastic basket, he heads toward the frozen section.
Morgana always gives his a hard time about his selections. She complains about sugar and calorie content and how he should pay more attention to his purchases - that he wouldn’t be fat if he dieted correctly. He most definitely isn’t fat, or even pudgy for that matter, and certainly doesn’t understand why the witch would ask him to grab the dessert if that’s how she really felt. Pushing aside all thoughts of stupid half-sisters and their stupid comments, he picks up one of those frozen, pre-made pies that he likes and shoves it into the basket.
Arthur spends a little more time in the store, checking out a sale on raisin biscuits, before deciding there aren’t any other purchases he wants to make. Heading towards the registers, he accidently bumps into someone turning the corner. “God, I’m sorry, friend!” The other man apologizes as he moves the trolley, full of stock, that’s just hit Arthur. “I should have looked where I was going!” The man is thin with dark hair and the trademark blue button-up that the store makes the employees wear. Arthur probably should be yelling, calling the bloke an ‘utter idiot’ but all he can do is stare at the bright blue eyes that now focus on him.
The employee smiles and shifts his weight awkwardly when Arthur doesn’t say anything. “Can I - um, do you need any help?” He asks hesitantly.
“Yeah... Brussels Sprouts, can you tell me where those are?” Arthur thinks quickly and gives the chap his best smile.
The employee laughs and returns a genuine smile. “I’m afraid you’re in the wrong area. Sprouts are in the produce section - other side of the market.” He gestures towards his left, indicating the direction Arthur should head. “They’re usually against the wall with the other greens. Anything else you need?”
‘I wouldn’t be adverse to your number.’ Arthur thinks but before he can say anything smart or flirty, a voice breaks out on the overhead.
“Merlin to the front. Merlin for customer service.”
The announcement rings out and the other man shrinks back subconsciously. “That’s me.” He sighs, pointing towards the tag hanging from his shirt, which states Merlin in bold black lettering. “Was there anything else you needed help with?” He asks again and Arthur shakes his head. “Well, have a good night, sir. And, sorry about the whole nearly running you over thing.” With one last, bashful look, he turns and pushes the trolley of overstock back to the front of the store.
Arthur isn’t sure what makes him pick up a bundle of Brussels Sprouts; he’s even more confused when he actually pays for the balls of green disgustingness. And, he’s sure Morgana will have a comment when she sees them. But, that doesn’t matter, the only thing that matters is the smile he receives from Merlin on his way out of the store.
“Thank you for shopping, come again.” He’s sure the boy says the line hundreds of times per night, but there is something genuine in his tone. Arthur decides that maybe he will be coming back.
- -
Arthur visits the market again on Sunday, a bounce in his step as he moves between the sliding doors. The grocery hasn’t changed at all - people scuttling, music playing, lights glaring. He can’t help but check around the registers first, hoping to spot a familiar head of dark hair. He’s a bit annoyed when he doesn’t see Merlin but continues to keep an eye out as he does some shopping.
After half an hour, he decides that he’s wasted a sufficient amount of time looking for that particular employee and brings his items to the check out. He resolves to try again tomorrow before trudging out of the store.
- -
“They don’t have some sort of machine to help you with this?” Arthur calls as he gets out of his car and sees Merlin attempting to push a row of seven trolleys back towards the entrance of the market.
“No, this is far more fancy.” Merlin laughs and gestures to a long black tether in his hand. The rope has a hook that attaches to the front trolley and keeps the rest secured to it.
“That looks like a total pain in the arse.” Arthur says as he approaches the other man. Merlin shoves some dark fringe out of his eyes and leans against the line of trolleys. He looks a bit silly with the neon safety vest over his jumper but Arthur finds it more endearing than anything.
Merlin’s smile is gentle and makes his eyes crinkle in the most adorable manner. If Arthur wasn’t a total stranger, and in the middle of a dark, nearly empty car park, he would have given in to the urge to snog Merlin senseless. “It’s not too bad. I just hate trolley duty on nights like tonight - it’s too cold.” The dark haired man sighs before slipping his hands out of his pockets and placing one against the plastic-covered steering bar of the last trolly.
Arthur can’t help but notice how red Merlin’s hands look. ‘He’d probably lose his fingers in this late autumn chill.’ Arthur quickly tugs his own gloves off and slips them into Merlin’s unoccupied hand. “Here, you need these more than I do right now.”
Merlin stares at the lump of black fabric balled in his hand. “I cannot take your gloves.” He tries to shove them back at Arthur but the blond shakes his head and refuses them.
“I won’t be a bystander as you freeze to death.” He smirks. “Just wear them till you remember to grab a decent pair for yourself, fool.” He’s satisfied when he watches Merlin slip the gloves on, covering long, delicate fingers with warm black fabric.
“You’re a regular knight in shining armor.” Merlin grins and Arthur can’t help feeling a little light-headed and pleased with himself. “I owe you one.”
- -
Arthur doesn’t go to the store for the next five days. His week consists of quick trips to the local grocery and extraordinary amounts of take away. The lack of Merlin-spotting has a frightening effect on his mood. By the time Friday comes around, even some of his coworkers begin noticing how sullen he seems.
Lance finally decides to broach the subject as they head out of the office Friday evening. The two had met in uni and become fast friends, even took jobs at the same company; it was no surprise that Lance would be the one person in the office courageous enough to ask Arthur what was making him act like such a prat. “So, are you going to tell me?” At Arthur’s questioning glance he continues. “You have been a complete twit all week, something has to be the matter. Is it the O’Neill project or something?”
“Yeah, I mean, yes - the project’s been wearing on me some. It’ll be fine once everything is finalized on Monday.” Arthur’s response comes out a bit preoccupied and he barely notices the door in front of him. Luckily, Lance is there to swiftly grasp the handle and keep Arthur from smashing his nose into the glass front.
When they reach the car park, Arthur continues walking towards his car. Lance hesitates, car parked in the opposite direction. “Do you want to go to Rafters and grab a pint or two? You look like you could use it,” he says hesitantly.
Arthur turns to face the other man but continues walking backwards. “I can’t tonight, got a few errands to run. Tomorrow?” Arthur musters a reassuring smile and tugs his tie loose from the collar of his white button-up.
“Yeah, just give me a ring whenever.” Lance waves him off and the two head in their separate directions.
- -
Arthur feels bad about the way he pushed Lance aside, but he hasn’t seen Merlin in a while... and he does actually need groceries. Arthur might be going crazy, but he’s sure there is a deep-rooted connection. It is probably a bit creepy to drive nearly fifteen minutes out of his way to see a stranger, but there is something about Merlin.
‘Besides,’ He thinks, steering his car into the shopping-center car park, ‘it can’t be considered stalking if you just happen to be in the same place at the same time... right?’ He quickly scans the outside, seeing if Merlin is collecting trolleys. When he doesn’t see the dark haired man, he bustles into the grocery to escape the biting winter chill.
Arthur pulls at the metal bar of one of the trolleys and it comes loose easily. He’d decided to make a shopping list earlier, with all the Merlin-pondering that’s filled his head. Arthur glances at the crumpled piece of paper, a bit of his personal work stationary, and embarks on his journey around the store. Eventually, he brings his neat sum of items to the register. He hasn’t seen Merlin yet and it makes him frown as he unloads his items onto the conveyor belt.
The cashier barely looks up as he begins to ring up the purchases and Arthur wastes no time stuffing items into the canvas bags he’d brought into the store with him. “I can help bag, if you’d like.” Someone says over his shoulder. Arthur turns quickly and is greeted by a smiling Merlin.
“Yeah, thanks.” A goofy grin slips across Arthur’s face before he can school his features into something that exuded less manic excitement. He shifts back to the cashier. The bloke gives him a bored glance and announcing the amount due. Arthur pays quickly before turning back to Merlin.
“Will, I’ll be right back - I’m just going to help him to the car.” Merlin’s finished packing the last of the items and picks up two bags, leaving the other three for Arthur to carry out. He turns quickly, not waiting for a response from the cashier, and heads towards the door. Arthur hefts the three bags off the register and hurries after the other man.
As they walk through the automatic doors, Merlin turns to Arthur. “I’m not technically supposed to be helping customers to their cars - not unless they have multiple trolleys.” He winks and Arthur’s heart flutters in his chest. Merlin makes a beeline towards Arthur’s car, not even asking where it was parked. “Don’t think I’m mad or anything... I just noticed your car last time you were here,” He says as he stops by the boot, waiting for Arthur to unlock it.
Arthur laughs as he struggles to pull keys from his coat pocket. “I’ll try not to be too alarmed.” The two make quick work of piling all the bags into the boot and Arthur pushes the hood closed.
They stand in awkward silence for a moment before Merlin finally moves. “Well, I’d better head back in.” He gestures towards the store.
“Thanks for your help.” Arthur replies, walking around the car towards the driver’s side. He’s about to get into the car when he hears Merlin call out.
“Shit, sorry, I forgot!” Merlin trots over to him. “I’ve been meaning to give these back to you but haven’t seen you around.” He extends his hand, offering the gloves Arthur had given him the previous week.
“Yeah,” he explains as he takes the gloves, “work’s been a bloody menace. Haven’t had time for any grocery runs, sorry.” Arthur slips the gloves into his pocket and gives Merlin a bit of a coy smile. He isn’t quite sure why apologizing seems to be the right thing to do.
Merlin slips his hands into his pockets and rocks forward on his toes. “It’s no problem! Have a good weekend...?”
“Arthur.”
“Arthur.” A bit of hair falls into Merlin’s eyes as he returns Arthur’s shy smile. “Have a good weekend, Arthur.” His voice is soft and sincere and Arthur just wants to hold on to him and never let go.
- -
Lance and Arthur have a long talk in the pub on Saturday night. He admits to his strange fascination, Merlin the adorable grocery clerk, with some trepidation about his friend’s reaction. Lance berates him for his obsessive, stalker-like tendencies but, to his credit, ends up supporting Arthur’s infatuation. Lance’s encouragement is the reason Arthur finds himself freshly showered, in his favorite jeans and best jumper, driving to the grocery store.
Arthur jogs into the market and heads straight for the store’s front end. He marches up to the Customer Service counter and asks if Merlin is working. A curly haired girl with the name tag Gwen stands behind the counter. She grins before picking up a black phone and calling for Merlin on the overhead.
Arthur waits only a few minutes before Merlin enters the main floor through a door labeled ‘staff’. Merlin looks a bit confused at first but smiles when the girl gestures towards the man waiting nearby. “Arthur, hi! Everything alright?”
Arthur notices the girl behind the counter is watching their interaction. “Do you have a moment?” Nervousness sets in and Arthur can’t help but run a hand through his hair.
“Yeah, I’m on break.” The two walk away from their audience at the customer service desk. “What’s up?” Merlin asks when they reach a more quiet section of the front end.
“I come in here all the time.” Arthur pauses. “And, I bought Brussels Sprouts of all things - I hate Brussels Sprouts! And, I mean, I fancy you... you know, and I think you like me as well, I think and... I just, I mean, will you go out with me?” Arthur feels like a complete prat but he still manages the ability to look Merlin in the eye after his lame proposition.
Merlin laughs, “Thank god! I was sure I was being stupid and imagining things.” He smiles brightly and takes Arthur by surprise when he says, “Give me your mobile and I’ll message my number.” Merlin pulls out his phone and quickly types in Arthur’s number before sending a text. Arthur feels and hears the familiar hum of his phone inside his trouser pocket. “I have to get back but message me whenever.” Merlin gives one more dazzling smile and the two part ways.
- -
It’s half past five the following weekend and Arthur sits inside a downtown coffee shop. He hasn’t been waiting long but he can’t help fidgeting some. He isn’t quite sure if he should take off his jacket and grab a drink or just keep waiting for his companion. Before he can make up his mind, Merlin walks into the shop and looks around. Spotting Arthur, he gives a shy wave before walking over to the small table Arthur is saving.
The two quickly order their drinks, talking amiable the entire time. “So, Brussels Sprouts?” Merlin questions as he removes his winter layers - Arthur can’t help but notice how slim he really is without his work kit or baggy jacket. “I didn’t realize I warranted such expensive purchases.” He smirks before taking his seat opposite Arthur.
“I’ll have you know that they weren’t even on sale.” Arthur sniffs and Merlin breaks out into a peel of laughter.
- -
His name is Harry, short for Harry Potter. Arthur and Merlin have been together for nearly two weeks when Arthur is finally introduced to Harry. Arthur’s a bit jealous when he sees the way Merlin looks at Harry. The way all his attention is devoted elsewhere. The way Harry is sprawled out on Merlin’s couch as if he owns the whole flat.
All is forgiven, however, when Harry ambles over, tail wagging, and begins to lick Arthur’s hands enthusiastically.
- - -
Arthur shoves Merlin against the brick wall, letting his fingers creep under Merlin’s coat and beyond. Harry’s leash tangles around their feet but neither are concerned. “Stay at my place tonight?” Arthur asks, nipping at the side of Merlin’s neck.
“Can’t.” Merlin pants, clutching Arthur tightly. “Need - Harry - home.” Merlin says the words between kisses, meeting Arthur’s warm mouth harshly. “I have school in the morning - and work.” He finally gets a sentence out and Arthur pulls back, looking at his mussed and adorable boyfriend.
“Okay, yeah, I’ll drive you both home.” Arthur sighs and presses one last kiss to Merlin’s lips before stepping back and untangling himself from the mess of Harry’s leash.
- -
Arthur knew there was a small age gap, that Merlin is only in his second year of school, but he never thought that would be a problem. It is so small in the grand scheme. To learn that three years is what’s holding Merlin back - to know that a comment by one of Merlin’s friends was the reason their love life is basically at a stand still... Arthur was floored.
“Will was just saying that he doesn’t think we’re a good match.” Merlin worries his hands and refuses to look at Arthur. “Developmental stages and things... you and I are at two different points in our lives.” He shifts on Arthur’s couch, discomfort written all over. “I mean, you’ve got a career and a life... I’ve got a shitty job and -”
“I don’t give a fuck about developmental stages.” Arthur grabs Merlin and immediately cuts off whatever the other man was going to say. “I love you.” He’s said it before, but, as he presses his lips to Merlin’s, he knows that this is the first time he’s ever meant it.
- -
“Arthur!” Merlin gasps, eyes pressed shut and hands clenching in fistfuls of blond hair. Arthur smirks as he licks at Merlin’s penis. Sucking and slurping enthusiastically, he relishes every sigh and moan that escapes from Merlin’s mouth.
Merlin’s beautiful, all long limbs and pale skin. Arthur grasps Merlin’s waist tightly when the brunets legs rise and clench around his head.
“Damn, Arthur, thank God!” Merlin yelps when Arthur applies more suction to the tip. It doesn’t take long for Merlin to start thrashing, nearly taking Arthur’s head off with a swift jerk of his leg. “Fuck - thank, uh, thank you!” Merlin comes, back arching at an impossible angle. Arthur continues sucking, taking as much of Merlin’s seed as possible. The two collapse onto the bed, Merlin flat and languid, Arthur sprawled over him.
After a beat, Arthur lifts his head to glance at his dazed boyfriend. “Thank you?” He snorts, taking in Merlin’s pleased smile. “That was your great declaration of passion?” Arthur pulls him closer, wrapping Merlin securely in his arms. “Idiot.”
“Prat.” Merlin murmurs in reply before they fall into a contented sleep.
TBC