[ his question is immediate ] Why would Merlin tell you about the wedding?

[ he didn't suspect anything, did he? Not that there's anything to suspect, but, well... ]

[ good thing this isn't video. He's already going purple from holding his breath ]

Oh, no. He can be friends with whomever he wishes, it's just...

[ he clears his throat ] I've been told it's tradition for guests to bring a friend. I was thinking [ hoping ] you might do me the favor of being mine.