FIC: if you hadn't been you [T] Merlin/Arthur

[merlin-hols.livejournal.com]

Title: if you hadn't been you
Recipient: deli (deliciousirony)
Rating: Teen
Pairings: Merlin/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin)
Word Count: 14k
Content Notes/Warnings: None
Summary:
"Merlin twisted round in his new chair as Arthur scowled over his shoulder. 'He could be anyone, you know.'
'I got that part, yes,' Arthur said flatly.
'I’m just saying. He could be some creepy murderer for all you know. He could have magic!'
A flush crept across the back of Arthur’s neck. He turned fully to reply. 'I don’t care, alright? Why are you still talking to me?'
Merlin ignored the last part, raising his eyebrows in mock surprise. 'You would date a murderer?'"

A You've Got Mail AU in which Merlin owns a magic shop, Arthur works for his father in politics and they cannot stand each other. EmrysHimself and SirKnight, on the other hand, have struck up a burgeoning romance...

Author's Notes: This fic was very much out of my comfort zone, but so much fun to write! I couldn't help myself when I saw the prompt for a You've Got Mail AU, since I love that movie. I tried to keep the magic element, as requested, and work in as much mistaken identity and two-person love triangle shenanigans as I could ;) I hope you enjoy, deli!! Happy Holidays!

Thank you to my sister for keeping me on track and being the best cheerleader, and an eternal thank you to Meg and to Mia for being betas despite never having seen the movie. I couldn't do this without you guys!

AO3 link to fanwork: https://archiveofourown.org/works/27970376

FIC: Only Skin Deep [E] Merlin/Arthur

[merlin-hols.livejournal.com]

Title: Only Skin Deep
Recipient: YouKeepMeRight
Rating: NC-17
Pairings: Merlin/Arthur
Word Count: 7200
Content Notes/Warnings: depression, self-loathing
Summary: Merlin doesn’t think he’s very handsome. Actually, he thinks he’s pretty ugly when it is all said and done, scrawny, weak, big-eared. When King Lot comes to visit and brings a gorgeous manservant with him, Merlin can’t help comparing himself to Ethelbert. And Arthur isn’t helping any.
Author's Notes: many thanks to my ever-patient beta for whipping this into shape. She’s a star! But keep in mind, all mistakes are mine!
And thanks so much to the Merlin Holidays mods who made this fest very smooth and enjoyable!
YouKeepMeRight - There were so many great prompts that I had a hard time choosing one, but this one was closest to my heart, so I hope you enjoy what I’ve written.

AO3 link to fanwork: https://archiveofourown.org/works/28077354/chapters/68789622

FIC: At Arm's Length [T] Merlin/Arthur

[merlin-hols.livejournal.com]

Title: At Arm's Length
Recipient: elirwen
Rating: Teen and Up Audiences
Pairings: Merlin/Arthur Pendragon
Word Count: 9142
Summary:

“I’m sorry, there must be a mistake.” Uther furrows his brows. “That is my son’s manservant.”

“This is Emrys, the most powerful sorcerer who will ever walk the earth. It is our deepest honor to be able to offer his hand to your son.”

“Merlin?” Arthur asks, looking across the hall. Merlin looks the palest and the smallest Arthur has ever seen him. He looks like a scared animal that knows it’s about to be trapped, and that’s when it clicks for Arthur that no part of this is a joke. None of it. “Merlin, what are they talking about?”

Author's Notes: happy merlin hols to elirwen! i took this right from your prompt list and i really hope you like it. special shout-out to nina for keeping me sane and to the mods for being so helpful when i had questions. this is my first time participating in this fest and my first time writing merlin fic in a year and a half, so i hope you all enjoy!

AO3 link to fanwork: https://archiveofourown.org/works/27832258