Merlin was satisfied with that, knowing in the next moment that nothing physical and terrible would befall them although, as Zach's next statement suggested, he couldn't speak for feelings being hurt.
It did seem strangely easier to breathe once Zach had moved his hand, but it felt noticably colder as well and Merlin held himself still so that he wouldn't shiver. "Maybe it would be for the better." he admitted. "But it wouldn't matter. What's going to happen isn't going to change."