Authors note: Hi guys, I'm tired four chapters in one day! So here's the shortest one yet but also to most lovey-dovey. Enjoy!

XXOXX Miss AudreyBear

"Your leaving?" Baya's voice was shrill and full of concern immediately drawing Thorin's attention.

"I have other matters to attend to Baya Baggins, matters away from here." Was Gandalf's firm reply. Wait, The wizard, was leaving!?

"You're leaving?" Gandalf turned calmly to face Thorin.

"I have other matters to attend to, but I will accompany you to the edge of Mirkwood forest."

"Mirkwood?" Baya squeaked, "We have to go through Mirkwood?"

"It's the only way," said Gandalf placing his hand gently on her shoulder. Baya nodded and moved to stand beside Thorin. Thorin could practically see the waves of distress rolling off her, and so he draped his arm around her shoulders. "I am not leaving quite yet." Gandalf said straightening up. Thorin shot him a heated glare, how dare the wizard abandon them. There was not much to be done about it, he decided bitterly.

"Move on." He gave Baya a pat on the back before removing his arm. She straightened her shoulders and shouldering her pack marched forward. Both Gandalf and Thorin watched as she moved away.

"You care for her," said Gandalf suddenly. It was not so much a question as it was a statement. Thorin looked at Gandalf for a long while.

"She has grown on me," he replied slowly, " I think someday, if she will have me, I shall like to wed her." He did not know why he had said that, and to the wizard of all people. Gandalf smiled warmly at him and clapped him on the shoulder.

"I am sure she will have you." He whispered and with a wink he turned and moved briskly away muttering under his breath; leaving Thorin stunned behind him.