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“Have toi told your father about us, Arthur?” Gwen asks as she walks alongside Arthur at the park, her arms wrapped around his. She hears Arthur sighing and she purposely shakes his arm, gaining his attention.
“Hmmm?” It is clear he is annoyed par the question but since it is Gwen who seeks the answer, he can’t vent his anger at her. Instead, he just bites his lips.
“Have you…”
“I heard you, Guinevere,” he cuts her off in annoyance though he keeps his voice under control.
“And… what?”
“What do toi want me to say?”
“Anything… assure me that you’ve spoken to your father.”
Arthur sighs again. He can’t give Guinevere that answer because he knows he hasn’t told Uther anything about them, though he did profess about his l’amour to him on many occasion. But that is different because now he and Guinevere are officially engaged. He has to talk to his father about this somehow and he will do it, but the question is, when?
“Arthur, why are toi keeping us a secret from your father?” Gwen asks again.
“I don’t mean to, but… I just don’t feel like telling him anything.”
“But toi know he will have to know about us someday, don’t you?”
“Yes, but…” Arthur stops abruptly, causing Gwen to halt beside him. “Each time I think of telling him, I end up feeling bitter.”
“Why?”
“Because he will never approve of us Guinevere, don’t toi see that?”
“How do toi know that Arthur? toi haven’t tried.”
“I know my father better than anyone in the world, and he is someone who sticks to his decisions once made and is not easily convinced otherwise. I know he will never approve of you.”
“Why? Is it because of my status ou that I’m black and toi are white or…”
“Guinevere please, toi know I will never compare toi with regard to all that.”
“Arthur, I understand and I am serious about this. I want to know and don’t worry, I am not hurt because all that matters to me is toi and your love. But I am curious as to why your father wouldn’t approve of us? I just thought of some reasons, that’s all.”
“My father… is a tyrant and expects to get things done his way. He will find plenty of reasons to not like toi but the one reason why he will not approve of us is because of Elena.”
“Oh, because toi rejected her?”
“Yes, and it didn’t go down well with him when I first told him about you, so…”
“Arthur, toi are not giving your father a chance.” Gwen puts in.
Now it’s Arthur’s turn to be surprise. What on earth is she talking about? “What do toi mean, Guinevere? Why do I have to grant him one? I don’t see any reason…”
“Listen, Arthur,” Gwen presses her finger against Arthur’s lips, stopping him from continuing. “What I mean is… toi have to talk to your father again, tell him abut us and the engagement and your plans to get your eyesight corrected. I know toi share a very sore relationship with him but how long do toi plan to stay like this, Arthur? He is your father and be glad toi have one. Talk to him; make him understand.”
“Does he look like someone who will listen to you? My father is different, Guinevere, and it’s hard to explain anything to him.”
“The problem with both of toi is that toi both are stubborn. How do toi plan to achieve anything if both of toi are being stubborn arses?” Guinevere is pissed and she isn’t afraid to let Arthur know that. “Someone has to give way and start something and I’ll be happy if that was you. toi have to pack your arrogance and leave it aside, Arthur. toi must start talking first and allow your father a place in your heart, make him talk and give him the respect and l’espace he needs to fit in your life.”
“But…”
“I’m not done, Arthur Pendragon. toi are the only son your father has and remember that. Put yourself in your father’s shoes and think. Anyone will react like your father does. I’m not talking about everything else, just our issue. He wants toi to be his son and toi have to start behaving like one. I am sure your father will listen once toi start talking and trust me, it will go on fine. All it needs is one of toi to step back and listen.”
Arthur sighs and lowers his head. Guinevere’s words do make sense but still, why is he feeling like it won’t work?
“Arthur,” she calls him softly. “I know it is not easy and considering all that happened between toi and your father, I know it will take a mountain for toi to reach out to him, trust him ou even start talking but something has to start somewhere.”
“What if he chooses not to listen?”
“Then toi have to convince him.”
“I’m not good at convincing, Guinevere,”
“You expect me to believe that?” Gwen laughs. “You managed to convince me well enough.”
“That’s different,”
“No, Arthur… what’s different is the way we think the others will react without even trying. Neither toi nor your father tried very hard to convince each other to give yourselves a chance and if this goes on, one of toi ou perhaps both will suffer. It’s not what we want, do we?”
Arthur has no réponses for that. Guinevere is right. Neither he nor his father had really donné each other the l’espace to understand one another; plus often they end up bickering than talking.
Gwen reaches out and turns him around so that she faces him; she then cups his cheek and caresses it softly. “Arthur, I don’t want to put toi in any unnecessary stress but I want toi to understand why I insist your father should learn about our engagement. I don’t want him to feel excluded. And I don’t want anyone to talk about how toi neglected your father and made your own decision… this will reflect badly on us, Arthur. Besides, your father needs toi and neglecting him at this age isn’t a wise move, no matter how cruel he’d been before. We need a family, Arthur, and that includes your father… I Lost mine and it still pains my heart. Take care of yours while toi still have the chance, because once they are gone, we will never have another chance to make that happen,” she says softly. “But this is still your choice and I am not going to force you,” she finishes.
Arthur forces a smile and he knows she is right. Yet he isn’t ready to forgive his father yet, no matter what everyone says.
“Forgive him, Arthur… let that grudge off from your heart. I am sure your mother would ask the same of you,” she tells him.
Mentioning his mother is a fine déplacer because not only Gwen gained his attention but he also seems to consider her options. He clasps her hand and brings it to his lips.
“Fine… I’ll talk to my father.”
“When?’
“Tonight.”
“Promise?”
“Promise,” he assures her with a smile.
Gwen pulls him and embraces him happily. “Thank toi so much Arthur, thank you,” she tells him, relieved.
“No Guinevere, thank you,” Arthur says, wrapping his arm around her.
Gwen rolls the documents and ties it with a ribbon. She then leaves it aside and flips open her log when someone squeezes her shoulder. She looks up and notices Morgana, standing with a smile on her face.
“Morgana!” Gwen pushes the chair back, stands up and hugs her friend. “Oh my Lord, I missed toi dearly!” she adds.
“And I missed you, too.”
“How, when did toi arrive? Why didn’t toi call me? How is everything? How’s Modred?”
The mention of Modred is a wrong choice because Morgana’s smile fades and she lower’s her gaze to the floor. Gwen senses her uneasiness and clasps her friend’s hand. “What’s wrong Morgana? Is everything all right?”
Morgana looks up and Gwen realizes her friend’s eyes are moist. She knew immediately something is not right. “Morgana?” Gwen calls again.
“I have a problem, Gwen… I don’t know to whom should I turn.”
“What is it?”
“It’s Modred,” Morgana says and sits down. Gwen follows suit and sits opposite Morgana, her eyes never leaving her.
“What about him?” Gwen asks.
“When he was a junkie he needed money to get his drugs, he couldn’t get it from his parents and he didn’t steal either because he didn’t want them to know so he worked for his friends.”
“What sort of job?”
“I don’t know but it was illegal and it turns out that he was lead to work for some loan sharks. For Modred it worked fine because he needed the money and he did all sort of work for them but I had no idea what type of work, just that it was all illegal. And something happened, one event led to another and now it seems he owes them a huge sum of money.”
“Oh my…”
“We didn’t know anything about this until late last night where the loan sharks arrived and attacked us.”
“Attacked you? What are toi saying Morgana? Are toi hurt?”
“No, but Morgause is. They arrived and threatened us, asking for Modred and the money he owed them. Modred was at accueil and he pleaded to give him some time but they refused and held Morgause at gunpoint. They a dit Modred only has time right up till end of this mois to come up with the money ou they will kill Morgause,”
“Did toi lodge any police report?”
“No, they threatened they will get their revenge on any of us if the police knew about this, so… we decided not to lodge anything. They warned Modred and left but not before injuring Morgause with the gun.”
“Why?”
“To make a statement, to prove they are not fooling around and they mean business. Morgause is fine but she is completely hurt par what Modred got himself into. She hasn’t stopped crying and it breaks me to see her like that,”
“What did Urien say?”
“He hasn’t spoken to Modred since the incident and right now he is looking for the money to pay the loan sharks back. But… he hasn’t found anyone willing to loan him anything.”
“Modred… how could he be such a fool? Look where his addiction have landed him! First the hospital and now this! Did he steal from them?”
“In a way, yes!” Morgana agrees.
“Morgana!!!”
“I am not lying, Gwen. He did and I found this out late last night. He didn’t tell his parents because he didn’t want to break their hearts anymore. He a dit he followed his Friends to a raid and found massive sum of money. His Friends wanted to divisé, split up and run away. Modred took his share but didn’t leave. Instead he used all the cash to get himself his drugs and stayed home. The loan requin found out about the theft, looked for the boys and found almost all except one had run off. He caught the lad and found out about Modred’s address and toi know what’s even worse? The lad lied saying Modred took all the money and ran off. The loan requin believed and searched for Modred and found him. Now, Modred has to pay him back the whole sum regardless of how much he took!”
“How much?”
“Two hundred thousand pounds!”
“Oh dear…” Gwen closed her eyes and leaned back. Her head is throbbing. She couldn’t think ou breathe. That is a lot of money. Where on earth is Morgana going to look for it?
“If that sum isn’t returned back to them par the end of the month, they will kill Morgause.”
“I’ll ask Elyan and Percival. They might have something… how is Urien’s luck?”
“He is talking to his Friends and applying for loans… but I’m not so sure it will work out.”
“You have to have faith, Morgana.”
“No, I mean it! Urien just bought a house, Gwen, and was bankrolled through a loan. And Modred’s educational loan still has three plus years to complete. There is no way he can get another loan sanctioned!”
“Oh… right.” Gwen remembers now. Just like her, Urien didn’t come from a wealthy family. He worked his way up and ensured his wife and son enjoyed the luxury he didn’t have. But now, he has to race against time to save his son and wife. Poor Urien.
Morgana looks at Gwen nervously. “Gwen, I know this isn’t right for me to ask but can toi help? I really need the money and I will do anything in return… I just want to save my sister. I will pay it back… promise,”
“Morgana… of course I will help you. I will ask my brother ou Percival all right… don’t worry.”
“I don’t want to trouble you, Gwen. I wish I didn’t have to seek this favour from toi but I haven’t got anyone else,” Morgana tells Gwen.
“Rubbish! toi are my friend and I will do anything for you. toi did right par looking for me but stop worrying. I’ll call Elyan tonight, all right?”
“Thanks, Gwen, toi made feel slightly lighter,” Morgana réponses with a smile but her smile fades the moment her eye catches a glimpse of the ring on Gwen’s finger. She gapes and looks up, petrified. “Gwen? What… what is that?” she points at the ring.
Gwen knows what has captured Morgana’s interest and she smiles shyly. “That, Morgana, is my engagement ring”
“And who gave it to you?” Morgana’s lips quivers with excitement.
“Take a wild guess.”
“Oh my God!!” Morgana covers her mouth with her hand and shakes wildly, tapping her feet in excitement. Gwen nods. She knows what’s crossing through Morgana’s mind.
“Arghhh!!!!” Morgana reaches out and embraces Gwen tightly. “When? When did he ask you? And how far have toi both discovered each other? When did this happen? Why didn’t toi tell me?”
“Morgana?” Gwen pushes her friend back a little and smiles. “Hold your horses, my friend, one question at a time.”
“I can’t… I’m too excited. I knew Arthur is the one for you! See, I was right all along!”
“Yes, toi were, Morgana. Only I didn’t want to listen.”
“How did this happen? The last thing I remembered was toi having a misunderstanding with him and toi confessed about your father to him… what happened after that?”
“He had a change of heart. Merlin and Gwaine paid me a visit, asking me to profess my l’amour again because Arthur was in l’amour with me. He was just too arrogant ou scared to tell me. So I did as they asked, we confessed, apologised and decided to give our relationship a fresh start.”
“Wicked!!! And after that ..”
“After that… hmmm,” Gwen smiles. Morgana’s eye widens.
“Bloody… did toi do it?” Morgana asks, almost sheepishly.
“Do what?”
“You know… that?” Morgana’s smile widens like the Cheshire cat.
“What?” Gwen pretends not to understand what her friend means.
“Come on, Gwen… quit playing games, toi know what I mean? Did toi have… sex?”
“NO! Of course not!” Gwen shouts, arching her brow.
“Really, huh?”
“Yes, Morgana… really. I brought him to meet Elyan and we had wonderful dîner and Elyan and Arthur bonded. It ended wonderfully, better than I expected and after that, Arthur proposed in his apartment.” Gwen explains, her eyes wide open.
“Really… gosh!! But toi really didn’t…”
“MORGANA!!!”
“All right, I believe you,” Morgana laughs. Gwen shakes her head.
“I told myself I’ll remain a virgin till I get married and I pledge to honour that. Besides, Arthur seems to have that thought too,” Gwen explains calmly.
“That was a joke girl, I am happy for toi both. I wish I’d been here when it happened.”
“I wanted to tell toi but toi were troubled with your worries and I felt it was improper to include my happiness alongside your sadness so I decided my news could wait.”
“No one can be happier than me with this news, Gwen… but now that I am here, I am happy for you.”
“Thank toi Morgana. To tell toi the truth, I can’t keep my eyes from this ring. I hold on to it like my life, I am so possessive of it… as if it’s my heartbeat. I really want to marry him Morgana, start my life with him, ours him children and be in l’amour all my life.”
“You will, love, toi will. It has been written in the stars all the while, just took some time for toi to realize it. When is the wedding?”
“We haven’t set the rendez-vous amoureux, date yet but did toi know I almost told him no?”
“Why?”
“I was scared… all of a sudden I freaked out. But he didn’t push me and a dit he will wait until I am ready before pursuing me again. I like that approach because he gave hope and strength and suddenly I was rejuvenated. I wasn’t scared anymore and I knew that this is the man I will be happy with so… I a dit yes,”
“Oh, Gwen… imagine if you’ve a dit no. That would have been a mistake!” Morgana voices out in fear.
“I know… but glad it is over so suivant thing in out chapter is our marriage date. But before that I want him to inform his father about our engagement.”
“He hasn’t told his father yet?” Morgana asks, curious why Arthur kept it a secret from his father.
“He and his father don’t see eye to an eye on all matters so… he chose not to tell his father about us. But I convinced him otherwise and he promised me to see to it.”
“And his operation?”
“He promised that as well… I want him to see me, Morgana. I know this is a selfish thought but I really want him to see me, touch me and Kiss me, all with his eyes fixed upon me,” Gwen tells Morgana, her eyes beaming with excitement.
“Haha… it will happen Gwen. toi have a good cœur, coeur and I am sure it will happen as your cœur, coeur desires.”
“Thanks, Morgana… well, that’s all about me. About you, don’t worry because I am here for toi and I will get help. And I need another favour?”
“Anything?”
“I want toi to be my maid of honour,” Gwen smiles as Morgana gapes.
“Of course… of course… thanks, Gwen,” Morgana hugs Gwen again.
“No, thank you, Morgana,” Gwen réponses and embraces Morgana warmly.
Gwen might have spoken gallantly but the moment she arrived home, a pile of bad news awaits her. First, it seems someone has sabotaged Percival par providing important information to his rivals. Not only did Percival lose his customers, but he also Lost his status in the market. The drop costs him greatly and he had to cut down on his costs, which also included personnel. Thankfully he still retains Elyan and a number of good staff beside him, to help him recover from this drop and reinstate his status back on top. But right now, he is in the midst of locating the traitor and persuading his old customers, some whom are still faithful and some who are not, to reinvest with him. It’s going to take a while before Percival can get back to the position he once enjoyed and it’s going to need everyone’s effort. Elyan will be staying in Carleon for some time, he told her in the message she received.
Gwen’s cœur, coeur sinks right to the bottom after lire through the message. She remembers her promise to Morgana this afternoon and now, how will she tell her friend that Percival isn’t in the position to help? Morgana will understand, she knows that, but… she desperately needs the money and a life is at stake here. Gwen sighs and clicks the button to listen to the seconde message. It was Elyan. He requests Gwen not to set the wedding rendez-vous amoureux, date closer to the end of the an as he will be busy with Percival, working their socks off to lift the business back up. He tells her that he feels bad asking her to do this for him but says it was a bad time for them and they could use some time just to themselves, focusing on their work while ignoring everything else. He apologises and states Percival feels exactly the same though he didn’t want Elyan to suggest the idea. Elyan insisted on it and after apologizing again, sending her his love, Elyan ends the message. Gwen sighs once again.
She clicks the button again. It was Gaius. He asks her if she could come over to the new building tomorrow morning and assist the newly appointed secretary with the documentations and paperwork. He wants her only for two hours, while he is conducting a meeting with his share holders. Gwen makes a face. It is her off jour tomorrow and she promised to accompany Arthur for his eye appointment in the morning. But if she goes to work, then she will have to ask someone else to take Arthur. And he isn’t going to like it one bit. The message plays on and Gwen listens with half interest. Gaius apologises and states how important the meeting is and all that but Gwen isn’t listening anymore. Why can’t Gaius find someone else? Gaius ends the message asking her to call him after she’s decided. The line goes dead and there are no plus messages to be played. Gwen sighs and pouts, walks towards her room with a heavy heart. She isn’t interested in Elyan and Gaius’s messages, but only in Percival’s. If he can’t afford to help her, whom will she turn to? How will she face Morgana? What will she tell her? She removes her scarf, her veste and her vest; drops it on the lit and sits down, cupping cheek in dismay. She is thinking about Morgana. She wants to help, but… how?
‘God, please provide me an answer,’ she prays to herself. Apart from Percival, she doesn’t know anyone else. Suddenly a moustique flies in front of her and she waves her hand to whack the distracting mosquito. As she did, her eyes suddenly fell upon her engagement ring. She halts and thinks quickly. An idea creeps up her mind.
‘Is it possible? Will it work?’ she asks herself. ‘Why didn’t I think of this before?’ she smiles slowly. The ring gives her an idea. She can ask Arthur for help and he will not say no. But would he want to ask his father? ou perhaps he has his own share of fortune? Gwen doesn’t know which one but she still wants to ask him. Maybe he can help. The smile returns back on her face and she feels slightly relieved. Finally there’s hope, thanks to the mosquito. Gwen looks up and crosses herself in prayers, thanking the Lord silently.
Arthur taps his way into the mansion and calls out a name he knows very well.
“Geoffrey?” he calls and waits. There’s no sign of his beloved butler anywhere. Arthur taps his cane patiently.
“Geoffrey?” he tries again after five minutes.
Someone taps his shoulder.
Arthur doesn’t need another introduction. “Geoffrey!” he extends his arm and the butler steps forward, taking Arthur’s out stretched arms. Arthur pulls Geoffrey closer and hugs him. “It’s nice to see you,”
“How are you, master Arthur?”
“I am fine… you?”
“I am fine sir.”
“Father?”
“As usual sir, confines himself in his study, pledges himself with his work and pays little attention to the world outside. But he does talk about toi often.”
“Yeah, that’s bull, Geoffrey.” Arthur doesn’t want to believe that.
“Don’t say that, master Arthur, your father does talk about toi often. I have never seen him like this before.”
“I am not willing to get entangled in this drama, Geoffrey. toi know him as much as I do and I’m not going to fall in his trap easily. Where is he?”
“In his study,”
“Can I see him?”
“Of course, sir… right this way,” Geoffrey says and leads Arthur towards the massive study. Arthur follows silently, tapping his cane while holding on to Geoffrey’s arm tightly.
Geoffrey taps the door of the study and waits. After a seconde ou two, Uther’s voice is heard from inside. Geoffrey announces Arthur’s arrival and waits again. This time the silence is longer than before. Both men hear footsteps nearing the door and suddenly the door yanks open, Uther standing on the other side.
Uther’s face brightens with happiness as he stands in the way, holding the door tightly. “Arthur!” he calls out.
“Father,” Arthur acknowledges calmly.
“I’ll leave toi both,” Geoffrey excuses himself and leaves.
“May I come in, Father?”
“This is your home, Arthur… stop asking permission, come.” Uther steps back and helps his son step inside. Arthur taps his way while Uther closes the door behind them.
“Are toi busy, Father?”
“Nonsense… I was just resting, anyway… how are you? Have toi come accueil for good?”
“Sorry to disappoint toi father but no… I, um… I came par to tell toi something important.”
“What is it?’
“Guinevere and I are engaged and we thought toi should know. It was her idea anyway so… the rendez-vous amoureux, date hasn’t been set but we will keep toi informed with the progress,” he lays it all out at once, getting right to the point.
Uther gapes and stands looking at Arthur in horror. ‘Engaged?’ he thinks. ‘He got engaged without my knowledge?’
“Father?”
“What is this, Arthur?”
“What is what, Father?”
“This… this engagement announcement! Who in the world do toi think toi are? toi are a Pendragon and is this how toi decide to get engaged? And toi are letting me know AFTER your engagement? What is this madness?” Uther is bitter.
“Father, not again. Look, toi are lucky because we decided to tell toi about our engagement, if I had it my way I would have informed toi after the wedding.”
“ARTHUR PENDRAGON!”
“Father… look!” Arthur sighs and takes in huge gulp of air. He hates this and hates fighting with him. Each time they try to start a conversation they end up fighting, no matter what the subject is all about. “I didn’t come here to fight ou hurt you.”
“But that’s what you’ve done, Arthur! I am hurt, beyond words. How can toi leave me out of your life? Have I been such a shadow in your life that toi decided to cast me out permanently? Yes… I understand I haven’t been a good father before but I am trying now. Can’t toi give me a chance, Arthur? Can’t a man turn over a new leaf?”
“Father, please…”
“No, listen, Arthur! And listen well: I l’amour you. I l’amour toi plus than I l’amour myself and I want toi to be happy. If toi are happy with that girl toi chose, then so be it. I’ll accept her. With all my cœur, coeur and I’m not saying this on the surface just to satisfy you, no! I mean it, every word of it. I just want toi to be happy because if toi are not, then I would fail. I will fail to keep the promise I made to your mother. I know I lectured, preached toi about honour, society and social status but as long as I can see that smile permanently on your face, I will accept anyone of your choice. This is a promise, Arthur!”
Arthur doesn’t know how to start ou where to begin his conversation. Did his father actually mean all that? Arthur seems suspicious because he knows his father well but that man’s voice is choking with emotion and his father rarely portrays his emotion in public. Arthur could hear the croaks in his voice and feels split. Should he trust his old man ou should he just walk away? His father acts well, and since he couldn’t see Uther this could be an act as well.
“You don’t believe me?” his father asks, as if lire Arthur’s mind.
Arthur waves his hand. “It’s not that, Father, toi have to give me time. I’m not used to this new you.”
“It’s all right, Arthur. I don’t blame you. I haven’t been really convincing enough, I suppose. I am happy toi found your happiness and let me know when toi get married. All I’m asking toi is that… please don’t leave me out from your big day. And another request, please consider the operation because that girl deserves the best from you. Just think of what I said,” Uther tells sadly and turns away.
Arthur feels sad and uneasy. ‘Is it really his father?’ he can’t believe what he’s been hearing. Uther never backs away as easily as he just did and he’s accepting Guinevere! That’s the important part of this conversation and Arthur is finding it hard to digest that. ‘Is it true?’ he pinches himself and feels the pain, so that means he isn’t dreaming. But… is his father for real?
“Father?”
“Yes Arthur?” Uther turns back to face his son.
“You are not bluffing, are you?”
“Why would toi say that, Arthur?”
“Because I’ve been led par your lies all my life and I want that to stop. I need your honesty right now, the truth. Can toi give me that?”
“Of course, Arthur… I just want toi in my life and I would give up everything to have toi back.”
“I need your promise, Father. I need toi to promise on Mother’s name that toi will not lie anymore, that what toi just told me is true and toi will accept Guinevere with all your heart. Can toi give me that, Father?”
“Yes, Arthur. I will… I will do all that toi ask and I promise on your mother’s name,” Uther promises and presses his hand against Arthur’s hand.
Arthur smiles. His father holds his mother dearly in his cœur, coeur and he has promised on her name, meaning he will never lie anymore. Not after promising on his wife. “Thank you, Father,” Arthur says with a huge smile. He feels relieved and for the first time in his life, he wants to embrace his father.
“Will toi not hug me, Arthur?” Uther beat him to it.
“Of course, Father…” Arthur says and embraces his father. Uther wraps his arms around his son warmly.
“It’s been so long since we’ve done this… I missed your childhood, Arthur. Forgive me.”
“Father, please, let’s not go there anymore. It’s time to déplacer on and we have an engagement to celebrate.”
“And a daughter-in-law to Usher into this home,” his father says, releasing his son.
“Yes…” Arthur is happy his father has changed. “She’s the reason why I’m here, Father.”
“Really?”
“Yes, she insisted that I tell toi about our engagement and forced me to meet toi today. If she didn’t press me, I don’t think I would have cared to let toi know.”
“Thank the heavens we found a good soul in her. I couldn’t have asked for a better person that her, Arthur. What’s her name?”
“Guinevere.”
“Yes… I have to meet her and apologise for all that I have spoken against her.”
“Father, please… she’ll not have any of that. She only wants your blessing and I wish for the same, so… just accept her.”
“Sure… toi have to bring her here Arthur. I want to meet her. What about tonight?”
“Tonight?” Arthur is surprised. He isn’t sure if Guinevere will agree with the idea and the timing.
“I’ll get Geoffrey prepare a feast,” Uther carries on excitedly.
“Father, I think you’re overdoing it.”
“For my daughter-in -aw, I’ll do anything… tonight then. I’ll expect toi back in an hour?”
“Father, I don’t know if she’s…”
“At eight then. I will be expecting both of toi in an hour… take our car, the Mercedes. Be chauffeured and bring Guinevere here. I can’t wait to meet her.” Uther is ecstatic.
Arthur laughs and shakes his head. “Father, calm down. Let me find out if she’s free tonight and if she’s not, I’ll bring her here another night. After all, she’s going to be staying here after the wedding, there’ll be plenty of time for toi to get to know her.”
“All right… find out and let me know immediately. If not today, tomorrow ou the jour after. ou tell me where she lives, I’ll visit her myself,” Uther says with a smile, cupping Arthur’s cheek.
“Thank you, Father… Leon’s waiting in the car for me and I promise I’ll let toi know about the dîner in ten minutes,”
“Sure, take care Arthur,” Uther says and Arthur has to listen a while to know he isn’t dreaming those words. Uther never says this and has never bid him goodbye. This will be first.
“Sure, Father, bye,” Arthur réponses and leaves. Uther watches his son leave and sighs.
“I can’t do that tonight, Arthur, no… no… I’m scared.”
“But Guinevere, my father’s expecting us,” Arthur tells Gwen softly. He expected this from the beginning and knows the answer but he still wanted to find out from Guinevere herself. Who knows, she might have a change of heart?
Gwen sighs and bites her lower lips. “I know… but…” she doesn’t want to disappoint him yet she doesn’t want to attend the dîner as well. She doesn’t have anything against Uther ou his invitation but she doesn’t feel the time is right to do so.
“All right. I understand this must be new for toi so tell me when toi are Rebelle enough and we’ll go over for dinner. But not too late because my father’s dying to meet toi and I can’t stop him,” Arthur laughs but Gwen doesn’t feel like laughing. In fact she isn’t in any mood to be happy after listening to Morgana’s problems. Her mind is completely fogged par the matter and she has to find ways to try to talk to Arthur about the money.
“Guinevere?” Arthur calls after sensing the lingering silence from his fiancée.
“Yes Arthur?”
“Is something wrong?”
“Hmmm… nope,” she laughs nervously. Arthur pats the siège beside him and she walks back to him and sits down. He reaches out to cup her cheek.
“What is it, Love?”
Gwen can’t bring herself to lie to him after he questioned her lovingly. If she is going to seek his help, Arthur needs to know the truth. And now is the right time to tell him about it. “Will toi be angry if I ask toi a favour?”
“Nope, tell me.”
“No matter how tough, difficult ou senseless the favour is?”
“For you, I will,” he tells her.
Gwen takes in a huge gulp of air. “You know Morgana, don’t you?”
“Yes.”
“Well it seems like her nephew has gotten himself in a trouble, so deep that it involves money and loan requin and so on. One event led to another and now he owes that man massive sum and they’ve threatened that if the sum isn’t paid par the end of the month, they will kill Morgana’s sister. And now the family is living in fear and she asked for my help. I thought I could turn to Percy and Elyan but unfortunately they have problems of their own, so… can toi help, Arthur?”
“Why didn’t toi ask me first, Guinevere? Why didn’t toi seek me first?”
“I didn’t want to trouble you…”
“Guinevere, toi are going to be my wife. Your problem is mine as well. I share everything, including your sorrow and I would have appreciated if you’ve approached me instead of Percival,” Arthur sounds hurt.
Gwen didn’t anticipate this. And she didn’t want to hurt Arthur. “I’m sorry Arthur, I… just…” she didn’t know what to tell him. “I’m so sorry,”
“I l’amour you, Guinevere, and I will give everything as long as toi are happy. But I just wished toi would have looked for me first…”
“I’m sorry, Arthur. I promise I will not do this anymore. Just not used to it, I guess,” she laughs nervously.
“It’s all right, Love. So, how much do toi need?”
Gwen swallows. ‘Please don’t shout,’ she prays in her heart. “Two hundred thousand pounds,” she says quietly.
“You can meet my lawyer tomorrow and get the money from him. I’ll talk to him now and get all the necessary documentations prepared and toi can have the money in minutes,” Arthur explains casually.
But Gwen in gaping, looking at him. Surely this came as a surprise. He didn’t even flinch at the mention of the sum, protest, ask her questions but instead he calmly tells her that the money will be ready tomorrow. Surely he can’t be serious?
“And tell Morgana she doesn’t need to return the money. I’m helping her on this as she has helped me with you,” he smiles.
“Arthur, you… toi didn’t even protest ou asked me silly questions. That’s a lot of money, Arthur.”
“Not in the Pendragon’s book. This amount is small compared to what we have stacked in the bank safes, so I really don’t mind helping. Like I said, I am willing to do anything for you. And Morgana’s my friend as well.”
Gwen doesn’t know how to reply to that. One part of her is relieved and the other part of her is afraid. Is this how she’ll be expected to behave once she becomes Arthur’s wife?
“Guinevere?”
“Oh, sorry… thank you, Arthur. This really lifted the burden off my shoulders. Morgana’s, too,” she tells him, hiding her own fears.
Arthur smiles. “This is nothing. Glad to be of help. Anyway, you’re coming to my appointment tomorrow?”
“Hmm, about that. I can’t love. I have to work, Gaius just called.”
“What? But toi promised…”
“I know but… I’m sorry,” Gwen apologises. She hears Arthur sighing sadly. She inches closer and leans against his shoulder.
“I am really sorry, Arthur… this is an emergency and Gaius wouldn’t call if it wasn’t really important. Sorry,” she reaches up and scratches his chin, feeling his stubble. “You need to shave,” she comments.
“Don’t change the topic.”
“I didn’t… but toi could use a good shave.”
“I am still bitter, Guinevere, but a shave sounds really good.”
“Come on, I’m good at it. I use to do it for my dad,” she stands up and pulls Arthur up his feet.
“Yeah… yeah, coming… but please be gentle,”
“Of course… come on,” she tells him and leads him away.
“Have toi told your father about us, Arthur?” Gwen asks as she walks alongside Arthur at the park, her arms wrapped around his. She hears Arthur sighing and she purposely shakes his arm, gaining his attention.
“Hmmm?” It is clear he is annoyed par the question but since it is Gwen who seeks the answer, he can’t vent his anger at her. Instead, he just bites his lips.
“Have you…”
“I heard you, Guinevere,” he cuts her off in annoyance though he keeps his voice under control.
“And… what?”
“What do toi want me to say?”
“Anything… assure me that you’ve spoken to your father.”
Arthur sighs again. He can’t give Guinevere that answer because he knows he hasn’t told Uther anything about them, though he did profess about his l’amour to him on many occasion. But that is different because now he and Guinevere are officially engaged. He has to talk to his father about this somehow and he will do it, but the question is, when?
“Arthur, why are toi keeping us a secret from your father?” Gwen asks again.
“I don’t mean to, but… I just don’t feel like telling him anything.”
“But toi know he will have to know about us someday, don’t you?”
“Yes, but…” Arthur stops abruptly, causing Gwen to halt beside him. “Each time I think of telling him, I end up feeling bitter.”
“Why?”
“Because he will never approve of us Guinevere, don’t toi see that?”
“How do toi know that Arthur? toi haven’t tried.”
“I know my father better than anyone in the world, and he is someone who sticks to his decisions once made and is not easily convinced otherwise. I know he will never approve of you.”
“Why? Is it because of my status ou that I’m black and toi are white or…”
“Guinevere please, toi know I will never compare toi with regard to all that.”
“Arthur, I understand and I am serious about this. I want to know and don’t worry, I am not hurt because all that matters to me is toi and your love. But I am curious as to why your father wouldn’t approve of us? I just thought of some reasons, that’s all.”
“My father… is a tyrant and expects to get things done his way. He will find plenty of reasons to not like toi but the one reason why he will not approve of us is because of Elena.”
“Oh, because toi rejected her?”
“Yes, and it didn’t go down well with him when I first told him about you, so…”
“Arthur, toi are not giving your father a chance.” Gwen puts in.
Now it’s Arthur’s turn to be surprise. What on earth is she talking about? “What do toi mean, Guinevere? Why do I have to grant him one? I don’t see any reason…”
“Listen, Arthur,” Gwen presses her finger against Arthur’s lips, stopping him from continuing. “What I mean is… toi have to talk to your father again, tell him abut us and the engagement and your plans to get your eyesight corrected. I know toi share a very sore relationship with him but how long do toi plan to stay like this, Arthur? He is your father and be glad toi have one. Talk to him; make him understand.”
“Does he look like someone who will listen to you? My father is different, Guinevere, and it’s hard to explain anything to him.”
“The problem with both of toi is that toi both are stubborn. How do toi plan to achieve anything if both of toi are being stubborn arses?” Guinevere is pissed and she isn’t afraid to let Arthur know that. “Someone has to give way and start something and I’ll be happy if that was you. toi have to pack your arrogance and leave it aside, Arthur. toi must start talking first and allow your father a place in your heart, make him talk and give him the respect and l’espace he needs to fit in your life.”
“But…”
“I’m not done, Arthur Pendragon. toi are the only son your father has and remember that. Put yourself in your father’s shoes and think. Anyone will react like your father does. I’m not talking about everything else, just our issue. He wants toi to be his son and toi have to start behaving like one. I am sure your father will listen once toi start talking and trust me, it will go on fine. All it needs is one of toi to step back and listen.”
Arthur sighs and lowers his head. Guinevere’s words do make sense but still, why is he feeling like it won’t work?
“Arthur,” she calls him softly. “I know it is not easy and considering all that happened between toi and your father, I know it will take a mountain for toi to reach out to him, trust him ou even start talking but something has to start somewhere.”
“What if he chooses not to listen?”
“Then toi have to convince him.”
“I’m not good at convincing, Guinevere,”
“You expect me to believe that?” Gwen laughs. “You managed to convince me well enough.”
“That’s different,”
“No, Arthur… what’s different is the way we think the others will react without even trying. Neither toi nor your father tried very hard to convince each other to give yourselves a chance and if this goes on, one of toi ou perhaps both will suffer. It’s not what we want, do we?”
Arthur has no réponses for that. Guinevere is right. Neither he nor his father had really donné each other the l’espace to understand one another; plus often they end up bickering than talking.
Gwen reaches out and turns him around so that she faces him; she then cups his cheek and caresses it softly. “Arthur, I don’t want to put toi in any unnecessary stress but I want toi to understand why I insist your father should learn about our engagement. I don’t want him to feel excluded. And I don’t want anyone to talk about how toi neglected your father and made your own decision… this will reflect badly on us, Arthur. Besides, your father needs toi and neglecting him at this age isn’t a wise move, no matter how cruel he’d been before. We need a family, Arthur, and that includes your father… I Lost mine and it still pains my heart. Take care of yours while toi still have the chance, because once they are gone, we will never have another chance to make that happen,” she says softly. “But this is still your choice and I am not going to force you,” she finishes.
Arthur forces a smile and he knows she is right. Yet he isn’t ready to forgive his father yet, no matter what everyone says.
“Forgive him, Arthur… let that grudge off from your heart. I am sure your mother would ask the same of you,” she tells him.
Mentioning his mother is a fine déplacer because not only Gwen gained his attention but he also seems to consider her options. He clasps her hand and brings it to his lips.
“Fine… I’ll talk to my father.”
“When?’
“Tonight.”
“Promise?”
“Promise,” he assures her with a smile.
Gwen pulls him and embraces him happily. “Thank toi so much Arthur, thank you,” she tells him, relieved.
“No Guinevere, thank you,” Arthur says, wrapping his arm around her.
Gwen rolls the documents and ties it with a ribbon. She then leaves it aside and flips open her log when someone squeezes her shoulder. She looks up and notices Morgana, standing with a smile on her face.
“Morgana!” Gwen pushes the chair back, stands up and hugs her friend. “Oh my Lord, I missed toi dearly!” she adds.
“And I missed you, too.”
“How, when did toi arrive? Why didn’t toi call me? How is everything? How’s Modred?”
The mention of Modred is a wrong choice because Morgana’s smile fades and she lower’s her gaze to the floor. Gwen senses her uneasiness and clasps her friend’s hand. “What’s wrong Morgana? Is everything all right?”
Morgana looks up and Gwen realizes her friend’s eyes are moist. She knew immediately something is not right. “Morgana?” Gwen calls again.
“I have a problem, Gwen… I don’t know to whom should I turn.”
“What is it?”
“It’s Modred,” Morgana says and sits down. Gwen follows suit and sits opposite Morgana, her eyes never leaving her.
“What about him?” Gwen asks.
“When he was a junkie he needed money to get his drugs, he couldn’t get it from his parents and he didn’t steal either because he didn’t want them to know so he worked for his friends.”
“What sort of job?”
“I don’t know but it was illegal and it turns out that he was lead to work for some loan sharks. For Modred it worked fine because he needed the money and he did all sort of work for them but I had no idea what type of work, just that it was all illegal. And something happened, one event led to another and now it seems he owes them a huge sum of money.”
“Oh my…”
“We didn’t know anything about this until late last night where the loan sharks arrived and attacked us.”
“Attacked you? What are toi saying Morgana? Are toi hurt?”
“No, but Morgause is. They arrived and threatened us, asking for Modred and the money he owed them. Modred was at accueil and he pleaded to give him some time but they refused and held Morgause at gunpoint. They a dit Modred only has time right up till end of this mois to come up with the money ou they will kill Morgause,”
“Did toi lodge any police report?”
“No, they threatened they will get their revenge on any of us if the police knew about this, so… we decided not to lodge anything. They warned Modred and left but not before injuring Morgause with the gun.”
“Why?”
“To make a statement, to prove they are not fooling around and they mean business. Morgause is fine but she is completely hurt par what Modred got himself into. She hasn’t stopped crying and it breaks me to see her like that,”
“What did Urien say?”
“He hasn’t spoken to Modred since the incident and right now he is looking for the money to pay the loan sharks back. But… he hasn’t found anyone willing to loan him anything.”
“Modred… how could he be such a fool? Look where his addiction have landed him! First the hospital and now this! Did he steal from them?”
“In a way, yes!” Morgana agrees.
“Morgana!!!”
“I am not lying, Gwen. He did and I found this out late last night. He didn’t tell his parents because he didn’t want to break their hearts anymore. He a dit he followed his Friends to a raid and found massive sum of money. His Friends wanted to divisé, split up and run away. Modred took his share but didn’t leave. Instead he used all the cash to get himself his drugs and stayed home. The loan requin found out about the theft, looked for the boys and found almost all except one had run off. He caught the lad and found out about Modred’s address and toi know what’s even worse? The lad lied saying Modred took all the money and ran off. The loan requin believed and searched for Modred and found him. Now, Modred has to pay him back the whole sum regardless of how much he took!”
“How much?”
“Two hundred thousand pounds!”
“Oh dear…” Gwen closed her eyes and leaned back. Her head is throbbing. She couldn’t think ou breathe. That is a lot of money. Where on earth is Morgana going to look for it?
“If that sum isn’t returned back to them par the end of the month, they will kill Morgause.”
“I’ll ask Elyan and Percival. They might have something… how is Urien’s luck?”
“He is talking to his Friends and applying for loans… but I’m not so sure it will work out.”
“You have to have faith, Morgana.”
“No, I mean it! Urien just bought a house, Gwen, and was bankrolled through a loan. And Modred’s educational loan still has three plus years to complete. There is no way he can get another loan sanctioned!”
“Oh… right.” Gwen remembers now. Just like her, Urien didn’t come from a wealthy family. He worked his way up and ensured his wife and son enjoyed the luxury he didn’t have. But now, he has to race against time to save his son and wife. Poor Urien.
Morgana looks at Gwen nervously. “Gwen, I know this isn’t right for me to ask but can toi help? I really need the money and I will do anything in return… I just want to save my sister. I will pay it back… promise,”
“Morgana… of course I will help you. I will ask my brother ou Percival all right… don’t worry.”
“I don’t want to trouble you, Gwen. I wish I didn’t have to seek this favour from toi but I haven’t got anyone else,” Morgana tells Gwen.
“Rubbish! toi are my friend and I will do anything for you. toi did right par looking for me but stop worrying. I’ll call Elyan tonight, all right?”
“Thanks, Gwen, toi made feel slightly lighter,” Morgana réponses with a smile but her smile fades the moment her eye catches a glimpse of the ring on Gwen’s finger. She gapes and looks up, petrified. “Gwen? What… what is that?” she points at the ring.
Gwen knows what has captured Morgana’s interest and she smiles shyly. “That, Morgana, is my engagement ring”
“And who gave it to you?” Morgana’s lips quivers with excitement.
“Take a wild guess.”
“Oh my God!!” Morgana covers her mouth with her hand and shakes wildly, tapping her feet in excitement. Gwen nods. She knows what’s crossing through Morgana’s mind.
“Arghhh!!!!” Morgana reaches out and embraces Gwen tightly. “When? When did he ask you? And how far have toi both discovered each other? When did this happen? Why didn’t toi tell me?”
“Morgana?” Gwen pushes her friend back a little and smiles. “Hold your horses, my friend, one question at a time.”
“I can’t… I’m too excited. I knew Arthur is the one for you! See, I was right all along!”
“Yes, toi were, Morgana. Only I didn’t want to listen.”
“How did this happen? The last thing I remembered was toi having a misunderstanding with him and toi confessed about your father to him… what happened after that?”
“He had a change of heart. Merlin and Gwaine paid me a visit, asking me to profess my l’amour again because Arthur was in l’amour with me. He was just too arrogant ou scared to tell me. So I did as they asked, we confessed, apologised and decided to give our relationship a fresh start.”
“Wicked!!! And after that ..”
“After that… hmmm,” Gwen smiles. Morgana’s eye widens.
“Bloody… did toi do it?” Morgana asks, almost sheepishly.
“Do what?”
“You know… that?” Morgana’s smile widens like the Cheshire cat.
“What?” Gwen pretends not to understand what her friend means.
“Come on, Gwen… quit playing games, toi know what I mean? Did toi have… sex?”
“NO! Of course not!” Gwen shouts, arching her brow.
“Really, huh?”
“Yes, Morgana… really. I brought him to meet Elyan and we had wonderful dîner and Elyan and Arthur bonded. It ended wonderfully, better than I expected and after that, Arthur proposed in his apartment.” Gwen explains, her eyes wide open.
“Really… gosh!! But toi really didn’t…”
“MORGANA!!!”
“All right, I believe you,” Morgana laughs. Gwen shakes her head.
“I told myself I’ll remain a virgin till I get married and I pledge to honour that. Besides, Arthur seems to have that thought too,” Gwen explains calmly.
“That was a joke girl, I am happy for toi both. I wish I’d been here when it happened.”
“I wanted to tell toi but toi were troubled with your worries and I felt it was improper to include my happiness alongside your sadness so I decided my news could wait.”
“No one can be happier than me with this news, Gwen… but now that I am here, I am happy for you.”
“Thank toi Morgana. To tell toi the truth, I can’t keep my eyes from this ring. I hold on to it like my life, I am so possessive of it… as if it’s my heartbeat. I really want to marry him Morgana, start my life with him, ours him children and be in l’amour all my life.”
“You will, love, toi will. It has been written in the stars all the while, just took some time for toi to realize it. When is the wedding?”
“We haven’t set the rendez-vous amoureux, date yet but did toi know I almost told him no?”
“Why?”
“I was scared… all of a sudden I freaked out. But he didn’t push me and a dit he will wait until I am ready before pursuing me again. I like that approach because he gave hope and strength and suddenly I was rejuvenated. I wasn’t scared anymore and I knew that this is the man I will be happy with so… I a dit yes,”
“Oh, Gwen… imagine if you’ve a dit no. That would have been a mistake!” Morgana voices out in fear.
“I know… but glad it is over so suivant thing in out chapter is our marriage date. But before that I want him to inform his father about our engagement.”
“He hasn’t told his father yet?” Morgana asks, curious why Arthur kept it a secret from his father.
“He and his father don’t see eye to an eye on all matters so… he chose not to tell his father about us. But I convinced him otherwise and he promised me to see to it.”
“And his operation?”
“He promised that as well… I want him to see me, Morgana. I know this is a selfish thought but I really want him to see me, touch me and Kiss me, all with his eyes fixed upon me,” Gwen tells Morgana, her eyes beaming with excitement.
“Haha… it will happen Gwen. toi have a good cœur, coeur and I am sure it will happen as your cœur, coeur desires.”
“Thanks, Morgana… well, that’s all about me. About you, don’t worry because I am here for toi and I will get help. And I need another favour?”
“Anything?”
“I want toi to be my maid of honour,” Gwen smiles as Morgana gapes.
“Of course… of course… thanks, Gwen,” Morgana hugs Gwen again.
“No, thank you, Morgana,” Gwen réponses and embraces Morgana warmly.
Gwen might have spoken gallantly but the moment she arrived home, a pile of bad news awaits her. First, it seems someone has sabotaged Percival par providing important information to his rivals. Not only did Percival lose his customers, but he also Lost his status in the market. The drop costs him greatly and he had to cut down on his costs, which also included personnel. Thankfully he still retains Elyan and a number of good staff beside him, to help him recover from this drop and reinstate his status back on top. But right now, he is in the midst of locating the traitor and persuading his old customers, some whom are still faithful and some who are not, to reinvest with him. It’s going to take a while before Percival can get back to the position he once enjoyed and it’s going to need everyone’s effort. Elyan will be staying in Carleon for some time, he told her in the message she received.
Gwen’s cœur, coeur sinks right to the bottom after lire through the message. She remembers her promise to Morgana this afternoon and now, how will she tell her friend that Percival isn’t in the position to help? Morgana will understand, she knows that, but… she desperately needs the money and a life is at stake here. Gwen sighs and clicks the button to listen to the seconde message. It was Elyan. He requests Gwen not to set the wedding rendez-vous amoureux, date closer to the end of the an as he will be busy with Percival, working their socks off to lift the business back up. He tells her that he feels bad asking her to do this for him but says it was a bad time for them and they could use some time just to themselves, focusing on their work while ignoring everything else. He apologises and states Percival feels exactly the same though he didn’t want Elyan to suggest the idea. Elyan insisted on it and after apologizing again, sending her his love, Elyan ends the message. Gwen sighs once again.
She clicks the button again. It was Gaius. He asks her if she could come over to the new building tomorrow morning and assist the newly appointed secretary with the documentations and paperwork. He wants her only for two hours, while he is conducting a meeting with his share holders. Gwen makes a face. It is her off jour tomorrow and she promised to accompany Arthur for his eye appointment in the morning. But if she goes to work, then she will have to ask someone else to take Arthur. And he isn’t going to like it one bit. The message plays on and Gwen listens with half interest. Gaius apologises and states how important the meeting is and all that but Gwen isn’t listening anymore. Why can’t Gaius find someone else? Gaius ends the message asking her to call him after she’s decided. The line goes dead and there are no plus messages to be played. Gwen sighs and pouts, walks towards her room with a heavy heart. She isn’t interested in Elyan and Gaius’s messages, but only in Percival’s. If he can’t afford to help her, whom will she turn to? How will she face Morgana? What will she tell her? She removes her scarf, her veste and her vest; drops it on the lit and sits down, cupping cheek in dismay. She is thinking about Morgana. She wants to help, but… how?
‘God, please provide me an answer,’ she prays to herself. Apart from Percival, she doesn’t know anyone else. Suddenly a moustique flies in front of her and she waves her hand to whack the distracting mosquito. As she did, her eyes suddenly fell upon her engagement ring. She halts and thinks quickly. An idea creeps up her mind.
‘Is it possible? Will it work?’ she asks herself. ‘Why didn’t I think of this before?’ she smiles slowly. The ring gives her an idea. She can ask Arthur for help and he will not say no. But would he want to ask his father? ou perhaps he has his own share of fortune? Gwen doesn’t know which one but she still wants to ask him. Maybe he can help. The smile returns back on her face and she feels slightly relieved. Finally there’s hope, thanks to the mosquito. Gwen looks up and crosses herself in prayers, thanking the Lord silently.
Arthur taps his way into the mansion and calls out a name he knows very well.
“Geoffrey?” he calls and waits. There’s no sign of his beloved butler anywhere. Arthur taps his cane patiently.
“Geoffrey?” he tries again after five minutes.
Someone taps his shoulder.
Arthur doesn’t need another introduction. “Geoffrey!” he extends his arm and the butler steps forward, taking Arthur’s out stretched arms. Arthur pulls Geoffrey closer and hugs him. “It’s nice to see you,”
“How are you, master Arthur?”
“I am fine… you?”
“I am fine sir.”
“Father?”
“As usual sir, confines himself in his study, pledges himself with his work and pays little attention to the world outside. But he does talk about toi often.”
“Yeah, that’s bull, Geoffrey.” Arthur doesn’t want to believe that.
“Don’t say that, master Arthur, your father does talk about toi often. I have never seen him like this before.”
“I am not willing to get entangled in this drama, Geoffrey. toi know him as much as I do and I’m not going to fall in his trap easily. Where is he?”
“In his study,”
“Can I see him?”
“Of course, sir… right this way,” Geoffrey says and leads Arthur towards the massive study. Arthur follows silently, tapping his cane while holding on to Geoffrey’s arm tightly.
Geoffrey taps the door of the study and waits. After a seconde ou two, Uther’s voice is heard from inside. Geoffrey announces Arthur’s arrival and waits again. This time the silence is longer than before. Both men hear footsteps nearing the door and suddenly the door yanks open, Uther standing on the other side.
Uther’s face brightens with happiness as he stands in the way, holding the door tightly. “Arthur!” he calls out.
“Father,” Arthur acknowledges calmly.
“I’ll leave toi both,” Geoffrey excuses himself and leaves.
“May I come in, Father?”
“This is your home, Arthur… stop asking permission, come.” Uther steps back and helps his son step inside. Arthur taps his way while Uther closes the door behind them.
“Are toi busy, Father?”
“Nonsense… I was just resting, anyway… how are you? Have toi come accueil for good?”
“Sorry to disappoint toi father but no… I, um… I came par to tell toi something important.”
“What is it?’
“Guinevere and I are engaged and we thought toi should know. It was her idea anyway so… the rendez-vous amoureux, date hasn’t been set but we will keep toi informed with the progress,” he lays it all out at once, getting right to the point.
Uther gapes and stands looking at Arthur in horror. ‘Engaged?’ he thinks. ‘He got engaged without my knowledge?’
“Father?”
“What is this, Arthur?”
“What is what, Father?”
“This… this engagement announcement! Who in the world do toi think toi are? toi are a Pendragon and is this how toi decide to get engaged? And toi are letting me know AFTER your engagement? What is this madness?” Uther is bitter.
“Father, not again. Look, toi are lucky because we decided to tell toi about our engagement, if I had it my way I would have informed toi after the wedding.”
“ARTHUR PENDRAGON!”
“Father… look!” Arthur sighs and takes in huge gulp of air. He hates this and hates fighting with him. Each time they try to start a conversation they end up fighting, no matter what the subject is all about. “I didn’t come here to fight ou hurt you.”
“But that’s what you’ve done, Arthur! I am hurt, beyond words. How can toi leave me out of your life? Have I been such a shadow in your life that toi decided to cast me out permanently? Yes… I understand I haven’t been a good father before but I am trying now. Can’t toi give me a chance, Arthur? Can’t a man turn over a new leaf?”
“Father, please…”
“No, listen, Arthur! And listen well: I l’amour you. I l’amour toi plus than I l’amour myself and I want toi to be happy. If toi are happy with that girl toi chose, then so be it. I’ll accept her. With all my cœur, coeur and I’m not saying this on the surface just to satisfy you, no! I mean it, every word of it. I just want toi to be happy because if toi are not, then I would fail. I will fail to keep the promise I made to your mother. I know I lectured, preached toi about honour, society and social status but as long as I can see that smile permanently on your face, I will accept anyone of your choice. This is a promise, Arthur!”
Arthur doesn’t know how to start ou where to begin his conversation. Did his father actually mean all that? Arthur seems suspicious because he knows his father well but that man’s voice is choking with emotion and his father rarely portrays his emotion in public. Arthur could hear the croaks in his voice and feels split. Should he trust his old man ou should he just walk away? His father acts well, and since he couldn’t see Uther this could be an act as well.
“You don’t believe me?” his father asks, as if lire Arthur’s mind.
Arthur waves his hand. “It’s not that, Father, toi have to give me time. I’m not used to this new you.”
“It’s all right, Arthur. I don’t blame you. I haven’t been really convincing enough, I suppose. I am happy toi found your happiness and let me know when toi get married. All I’m asking toi is that… please don’t leave me out from your big day. And another request, please consider the operation because that girl deserves the best from you. Just think of what I said,” Uther tells sadly and turns away.
Arthur feels sad and uneasy. ‘Is it really his father?’ he can’t believe what he’s been hearing. Uther never backs away as easily as he just did and he’s accepting Guinevere! That’s the important part of this conversation and Arthur is finding it hard to digest that. ‘Is it true?’ he pinches himself and feels the pain, so that means he isn’t dreaming. But… is his father for real?
“Father?”
“Yes Arthur?” Uther turns back to face his son.
“You are not bluffing, are you?”
“Why would toi say that, Arthur?”
“Because I’ve been led par your lies all my life and I want that to stop. I need your honesty right now, the truth. Can toi give me that?”
“Of course, Arthur… I just want toi in my life and I would give up everything to have toi back.”
“I need your promise, Father. I need toi to promise on Mother’s name that toi will not lie anymore, that what toi just told me is true and toi will accept Guinevere with all your heart. Can toi give me that, Father?”
“Yes, Arthur. I will… I will do all that toi ask and I promise on your mother’s name,” Uther promises and presses his hand against Arthur’s hand.
Arthur smiles. His father holds his mother dearly in his cœur, coeur and he has promised on her name, meaning he will never lie anymore. Not after promising on his wife. “Thank you, Father,” Arthur says with a huge smile. He feels relieved and for the first time in his life, he wants to embrace his father.
“Will toi not hug me, Arthur?” Uther beat him to it.
“Of course, Father…” Arthur says and embraces his father. Uther wraps his arms around his son warmly.
“It’s been so long since we’ve done this… I missed your childhood, Arthur. Forgive me.”
“Father, please, let’s not go there anymore. It’s time to déplacer on and we have an engagement to celebrate.”
“And a daughter-in-law to Usher into this home,” his father says, releasing his son.
“Yes…” Arthur is happy his father has changed. “She’s the reason why I’m here, Father.”
“Really?”
“Yes, she insisted that I tell toi about our engagement and forced me to meet toi today. If she didn’t press me, I don’t think I would have cared to let toi know.”
“Thank the heavens we found a good soul in her. I couldn’t have asked for a better person that her, Arthur. What’s her name?”
“Guinevere.”
“Yes… I have to meet her and apologise for all that I have spoken against her.”
“Father, please… she’ll not have any of that. She only wants your blessing and I wish for the same, so… just accept her.”
“Sure… toi have to bring her here Arthur. I want to meet her. What about tonight?”
“Tonight?” Arthur is surprised. He isn’t sure if Guinevere will agree with the idea and the timing.
“I’ll get Geoffrey prepare a feast,” Uther carries on excitedly.
“Father, I think you’re overdoing it.”
“For my daughter-in -aw, I’ll do anything… tonight then. I’ll expect toi back in an hour?”
“Father, I don’t know if she’s…”
“At eight then. I will be expecting both of toi in an hour… take our car, the Mercedes. Be chauffeured and bring Guinevere here. I can’t wait to meet her.” Uther is ecstatic.
Arthur laughs and shakes his head. “Father, calm down. Let me find out if she’s free tonight and if she’s not, I’ll bring her here another night. After all, she’s going to be staying here after the wedding, there’ll be plenty of time for toi to get to know her.”
“All right… find out and let me know immediately. If not today, tomorrow ou the jour after. ou tell me where she lives, I’ll visit her myself,” Uther says with a smile, cupping Arthur’s cheek.
“Thank you, Father… Leon’s waiting in the car for me and I promise I’ll let toi know about the dîner in ten minutes,”
“Sure, take care Arthur,” Uther says and Arthur has to listen a while to know he isn’t dreaming those words. Uther never says this and has never bid him goodbye. This will be first.
“Sure, Father, bye,” Arthur réponses and leaves. Uther watches his son leave and sighs.
“I can’t do that tonight, Arthur, no… no… I’m scared.”
“But Guinevere, my father’s expecting us,” Arthur tells Gwen softly. He expected this from the beginning and knows the answer but he still wanted to find out from Guinevere herself. Who knows, she might have a change of heart?
Gwen sighs and bites her lower lips. “I know… but…” she doesn’t want to disappoint him yet she doesn’t want to attend the dîner as well. She doesn’t have anything against Uther ou his invitation but she doesn’t feel the time is right to do so.
“All right. I understand this must be new for toi so tell me when toi are Rebelle enough and we’ll go over for dinner. But not too late because my father’s dying to meet toi and I can’t stop him,” Arthur laughs but Gwen doesn’t feel like laughing. In fact she isn’t in any mood to be happy after listening to Morgana’s problems. Her mind is completely fogged par the matter and she has to find ways to try to talk to Arthur about the money.
“Guinevere?” Arthur calls after sensing the lingering silence from his fiancée.
“Yes Arthur?”
“Is something wrong?”
“Hmmm… nope,” she laughs nervously. Arthur pats the siège beside him and she walks back to him and sits down. He reaches out to cup her cheek.
“What is it, Love?”
Gwen can’t bring herself to lie to him after he questioned her lovingly. If she is going to seek his help, Arthur needs to know the truth. And now is the right time to tell him about it. “Will toi be angry if I ask toi a favour?”
“Nope, tell me.”
“No matter how tough, difficult ou senseless the favour is?”
“For you, I will,” he tells her.
Gwen takes in a huge gulp of air. “You know Morgana, don’t you?”
“Yes.”
“Well it seems like her nephew has gotten himself in a trouble, so deep that it involves money and loan requin and so on. One event led to another and now he owes that man massive sum and they’ve threatened that if the sum isn’t paid par the end of the month, they will kill Morgana’s sister. And now the family is living in fear and she asked for my help. I thought I could turn to Percy and Elyan but unfortunately they have problems of their own, so… can toi help, Arthur?”
“Why didn’t toi ask me first, Guinevere? Why didn’t toi seek me first?”
“I didn’t want to trouble you…”
“Guinevere, toi are going to be my wife. Your problem is mine as well. I share everything, including your sorrow and I would have appreciated if you’ve approached me instead of Percival,” Arthur sounds hurt.
Gwen didn’t anticipate this. And she didn’t want to hurt Arthur. “I’m sorry Arthur, I… just…” she didn’t know what to tell him. “I’m so sorry,”
“I l’amour you, Guinevere, and I will give everything as long as toi are happy. But I just wished toi would have looked for me first…”
“I’m sorry, Arthur. I promise I will not do this anymore. Just not used to it, I guess,” she laughs nervously.
“It’s all right, Love. So, how much do toi need?”
Gwen swallows. ‘Please don’t shout,’ she prays in her heart. “Two hundred thousand pounds,” she says quietly.
“You can meet my lawyer tomorrow and get the money from him. I’ll talk to him now and get all the necessary documentations prepared and toi can have the money in minutes,” Arthur explains casually.
But Gwen in gaping, looking at him. Surely this came as a surprise. He didn’t even flinch at the mention of the sum, protest, ask her questions but instead he calmly tells her that the money will be ready tomorrow. Surely he can’t be serious?
“And tell Morgana she doesn’t need to return the money. I’m helping her on this as she has helped me with you,” he smiles.
“Arthur, you… toi didn’t even protest ou asked me silly questions. That’s a lot of money, Arthur.”
“Not in the Pendragon’s book. This amount is small compared to what we have stacked in the bank safes, so I really don’t mind helping. Like I said, I am willing to do anything for you. And Morgana’s my friend as well.”
Gwen doesn’t know how to reply to that. One part of her is relieved and the other part of her is afraid. Is this how she’ll be expected to behave once she becomes Arthur’s wife?
“Guinevere?”
“Oh, sorry… thank you, Arthur. This really lifted the burden off my shoulders. Morgana’s, too,” she tells him, hiding her own fears.
Arthur smiles. “This is nothing. Glad to be of help. Anyway, you’re coming to my appointment tomorrow?”
“Hmm, about that. I can’t love. I have to work, Gaius just called.”
“What? But toi promised…”
“I know but… I’m sorry,” Gwen apologises. She hears Arthur sighing sadly. She inches closer and leans against his shoulder.
“I am really sorry, Arthur… this is an emergency and Gaius wouldn’t call if it wasn’t really important. Sorry,” she reaches up and scratches his chin, feeling his stubble. “You need to shave,” she comments.
“Don’t change the topic.”
“I didn’t… but toi could use a good shave.”
“I am still bitter, Guinevere, but a shave sounds really good.”
“Come on, I’m good at it. I use to do it for my dad,” she stands up and pulls Arthur up his feet.
“Yeah… yeah, coming… but please be gentle,”
“Of course… come on,” she tells him and leads him away.
