by grievous angel
F/S, PG13
"Of course, of course," Bilbo said, his voice far away. "Don't get lost, you know what you're like."
"No, I won't."
Frodo made his way back to the kitchen and quickly picked up some bread and cheese and an apple or two, sliding them into a satchel, along with one of his favourite books, then he made his way out of the door and up towards the hill, heading for his favourite clearing in the woods. He saw Sam at the bottom of the Hill, obviously finished at Bag End for the day, and now deep in conversation with one of the Cotton boys. He raised his hand in a friendly wave and received a polite nod in return, then continued on his walk, half hoping that Sam would come and join him, and that they could exchange sweet kisses underneath the trees, but he knew that was unlikely, so instead he settled himself down, opened his book and, taking a huge bite out of one of the apples, set himself to a comfortable day reading.
*
As was always the way, he lost himself in the magic of words, and it wasn't until the sun had begun to sink that he finally blinked himself back to reality, glancing around startled at the length of the shadows. The rumble in his belly made him realise how late it really was, and with a muttered oath, he stood up and quickly gathered his belongings together, walking quickly towards Bag End and hoping Bilbo was still locked in his study, not noticing the time.
No such luck. Bilbo was leaning against the gate, sharing a pipe and a quiet conversation with Gaffer Gamgee, and they both glanced up as Frodo appeared.
"At last!" Bilbo said. "I was beginning to think I would have to come and search for you." His casual posture gave the lie to the remark, and Frodo smiled.
"I'm sorry. I got …"
"I know," Bilbo said. "Do you think I don't know how easy it is to lose yourself in words? Inside with you now; there's food on the table, and something else. Young Samwise dropped something off earlier, said he found just the thing, and that you'd understand."
Quirking an eyebrow, Frodo trotted up towards the open door, ridiculously pleased that Sam had thought of him, had brought him a gift when none had been asked for.