by shirebound
"Bilbo, there is something about Frodo…" mused Aragorn.
"He has such a gentle spirit, he inspires others to want to protect and safeguard it. You say that even young Samwise senses it." He smiled. "If ever he is in danger, I suspect there will be many who would risk much to see to his safety."
"That would ease my heart greatly," said Bilbo quietly. "I'm afraid for him. Such a friendly, trusting lad…" He sighed.
"Frodo will not be content to forever dwell in the safety of the Shire. His questions about the 'outside world' are endless."
"He has a curious nature."
"A pity that the Rangers cannot quarantine the Shire as easily as Bag End," said Bilbo. "It would keep Frodo safe. But then…" He chuckled. "I would be quarantined, as well!"
"Frodo may have a gentle spirit, Bilbo," continued Aragorn, "but we have both seen the courage and fire within him. Perhaps you worry needlessly." He smiled down at the old hobbit. "In any event, I doubt he will go running off anytime soon; he's still enjoying the novelty of having a stable home, and someone to love and anchor him."
"He's very dependent on me, although I certainly understand why," Bilbo mused. "In the coming years, I need to help him recognize his own strengths so he can stand on his own, if need be."
"Spoken like a true father."
"Something I never dreamed I would be! Still, I will not be here forever…" Bilbo suddenly grinned, "…although that might be interesting!"
Aragorn looked at the old hobbit appraisingly. "You show few signs of age, Bilbo, and from Gandalf's hints and riddles, perhaps holding off the ravages of time is not your only secret."
"I'm starting to feel the years a bit," said Bilbo with a sigh. "This old body isn't quite as limber as it once was." He met the Ranger's gaze. "But there is a mystery to you as well, Aragorn. Perhaps we can agree to let the other keep his secrets, until such time as they would best be revealed."