Then Bilbo finished his cup of tea, waiting for the Gaffer to speak.
* * *
On his way back home from the market, Frodo found Sam loading the Gamgee’s old cart. His heart dropped, and he felt the despair rising through him once again.
“So you are going, Sam. Bilbo promised me he’d talk to your Gaffer.”
Sam smiled. “He did. I’m leaving tomorrow Mr. Frodo, but just to pay a visit to my brother, and help him a bit, while I’m there. I’ll be away a month, at most …”
Frodo’s face lightened up.
“That’s to say you’ll stay here, with me … ”
“Aye, Mr. Frodo. I’ll be back sooner than you can miss me… I’ve got a garden here to tend … as well as my most precious flower.”
They hugged and shared a quick kiss, hoping no one was around.
* * *
From his bedroom window in Bag End, Frodo was gazing at the stars, thinking about Sam and the night of love they had shared. Then he fell into a peaceful slumber, the first after a long series of restless nights.
* * *
In his tiny bed in North Farthing Sam was having his well deserved rest, after a day of travel and hard work. His last thought before falling asleep had been for his beloved Frodo.
* * *
The next day the sun rose high in the Shire, drying away the last traces of dew. A wonderful summer morning: it brought the promise of a future full of love for Frodo and Sam.
End
