King Arthur's Shortcomings

Stunned, Arthur blinked his eyes. As a lawyer, outwardly, he always had to reinforce that calm and authoritative façade. Besides, being the son of Uther Pendragon, nothing less was acceptable. However, inwardly, Arthur had always been unsure of his worth, especially since his own father pointed out Arthur’s shortcomings like it was a sport. Gwen was one of the first people who had loved him, warts and all. When they broke up, his self-esteem took a beating, and it hadn’t recovered.

But life was changing. It looked entirely different than it had almost six months ago. He had new friends, a new job, and he and Gwen were talking. Maybe it was time to forgive himself for his wrongs. He’d forgiven his father; couldn’t he offer the same compassion and understanding to himself? What made

Your friendship is enough.”

He handed her the bag. “Yeah, but you’ll like this.”

Gwen lifted a plastic container out of the bag, one bursting with a baked treat.

“They’re honey oat cakes, a real medieval recipe.” Gareth grinned at her. “I made them all by myself with no, help. Isn’t that right, Mom.”

Sefa nodded. “He’s right.”

Even though Gwen wasn’t hungry, she fished out a sticky treat and sampled it. “This is delicious. Thank you so much. I have something for you, too.”

Gareth was obsessed with all things related to King Arthur, dragons, dogs, and Legos. She’d been perusing eBay while doing her online Christmas shopping and found the perfect gift, a lot of Lego nights along with their armor, horse, and swords. She reached under the counter and handed over the present. He tore open the boxed and gasped when his hand closed around a dozen tiny Lego knights.

“Wow,” was all he managed, his eyes filled with wonder.

“Gareth…” Sefa prompted.

“Oh, sorry! Thank you, Gwen. This is the best present ever.”

He flung his arms around Gwen and embraced her.

They exchanged more thank yous, Merry Christmases, then they said