It's easier than the alternative? Much much much easier...But a few days here has helped a little, and having Merlin at his side again helps even more.

"Fine." No point arguing and he's not too bothered by it if Merlin isn't. While Arthur can be oblivious, he notices those glances now but chalks it up to his death and...however long it's been since. So he grins and ignores them as best he can. "You enjoy having them to do."

Ah, and then there's that. "It's a skill, Merlin. I adapt." Mocking words, confident tone, neither are how he feels. He looks at his friend out of the corner of an eye, and that arm might tighten just a little around Merlin's shoulders. "...Don't worry. I'll take care of you." Which is now just strange to say, because he knows Merlin's power.