This is my first piece of fan fiction in literally years. I haven't been active since my freshman year in high school. FF Uploader sure has changed since I knew it... Anyway, I saw Brave and I loved the Queen and King so much that I had to write a quick one-shot commemorating their very sweet, but subtle romance. I hope this doesn't seem too rushed!

Enjoy!

Quiet Moments

The celebrations ran late into the night, filled with food, drink, and laughter. The castle was abuzz with talk about the final fight with the demon-bear and the reunion of Queen Elinor and Princess Merida. However, after a few hours of merry making, people began drifting back home and to beds and the celebrations came to a close. The music quieted and the land was at peace.

Meanwhile in the castle, Elinor was quite exhausted by the time she and Fergus retired. She still put her three sons to bed – and made sure they knew to stay there – and went to tell her daughter goodnight before she went to the room she and her husband were temporarily using. Fergus was already there, undressed and snuggled under the thick quilt. He looked up and smiled at her warmly. He patted the bed encouragingly, but Elinor shook her head and gestured to the clothes she had changed into as soon as they had arrived back at the castle.

"Dear, I can't go to bed fully dress, you know! Let me change into my night gown." Elinor chuckled quietly and went to a spare dresser where her clothes were being kept for the moment.

"Ah, forget the night gown! Just take off yer dress and get in bed, no one will know," Fergus gave her a cheeky grin and patted the bed again.

She considered for a moment, then shrugged her shoulders and laughed. Why not? She had been stark naked earlier except for a tapestry, so she supposed she could go one night in just her underclothes. After taking off the dress and the corset and folding them neatly, Elinor stepped into bed and into the waiting arms of her husband. Fergus gave her a strong squeeze and kissed her forehead.

Elinor smiled at Fergus, who kept making faces. He was struggling to say something, but couldn't get it out. She waited patiently while he figured out what he wanted to say. Finally, he managed to get out, "I'm so glad yer... uhm, that yer all right, Elinor," He touched her cheek gently. Elinor laid her hand over his and held his fingers lightly. "When I found the room 'n' yer dress in ruins, I thought you were… were…"

He trailed off and stared past her with hard eyes. It was unlikely that he'd be able to finish his thought. Though, she supposed it didn't matter if he could or couldn't. The look of love and relief in his eyes when he looked into hers said it all. She took his hand in both of hers and kissed his knuckles lightly.

"I know, Fergus," She kissed his knuckles again lightly, "It's late, you know. We should try to get to sleep."

That said, Elinor let go of his hand and settled into her husband's arms. Fergus nodded in agreement, relaxed into bed, and let out a heavy sigh.

Together, in a shared quiet moment of mutual understanding, they fell asleep.

Comments and constructive criticism welcomed.