Finally, after so long traveling, we rode into the Shire. Merry and Pippin had become my friends on the long journey, and even Sam had warmed up to me. I felt awkward riding on a big horse behind four ponies. We attracted many stares, and a few glares.

We parted with the promise to meet that night at the Green Dragon for dinner. Beleg trotted toward my house, a sight that I hadn't seen for too long. I jumped off of him and walked inside. I walked through the familiar rooms, drinking in the sight of my old life.

I changed out of my traveling clothes into a brown dress. Then I carefully unpacked my bag. I pulled out a sheath and realized I still had Hannah's dagger. I hoped she wouldn't mind. I carefully hung it on a nail in the wall; a reminder of the days of war.


That night, I walked to the Green Dragon. I saw Rosie, but she was too busy cleaning mugs to notice anything else. Frodo and Sam were sitting opposite from each other at a table. I sat next to Frodo. Merry and Pippin arrived soon, and Merry sat on the other side of Frodo while Pippin sat next to Sam. After a while of sitting in awkward silence, Frodo stood up.

"I'll go get some ales," he said.

He walked away, and soon returned holding five mugs. He set them down and then sat down. After more awkward silence, we all raised our mugs and toasted, then took a drink. I saw Sam spot Rosie, and a determined look came into his eyes. He took a swig of ale, and then stood up and walked over to her.

Merry and Pippin exchanged looks with raised eyebrows, and Frodo laughed. A short while later, Sam came back and sat down again, looking triumphant.

"I asked Rosie to marry me and she said yes," Sam said.

There were congratulations and pats on the back from Frodo, Merry, and Pippin. After hours of eating and drinking, we said goodnight and left. I walked with Frodo for a short while alone, as our houses were close. When the lane divided, I turned to go right.

"Wait," Frodo said.

I turned to face him.

Frodo took my hands. He looked nervous.

"Sam inspired me," he said.

Then he got down on one knee. "Elanor Banks, will you marry me?"

I couldn't breathe. Frodo looked up at me with his adorable blue eyes.

"Yes," I squeaked.

Frodo beamed at me. He stood up and kissed me. Then he pulled away and walked down the lane. I could barely walk straight as I made my way to my house. I collapsed into my bed and fell asleep.


The next day, I sat with Frodo, Sam, and Rosie in Bag End. We had decided to have a double wedding. We sent out invitations to as many Hobbits as we could think of. We spent the whole day planning. We set the day for two months. Sam wanted it to be earlier, but I insisted. I wanted there to be time for my friends to get here.


That night at my house, I used the mirror to contact my friends and invite them to my wedding. They readily agreed and congratulated me. I couldn't wait for my wedding!