Author's Note: The final part of this story. I hope you all have enjoyed reading it, and thanks to all who have reviewed the first three parts. Please let me know if I should consider writing other fanfics this way.


Part 4: Sam

Frodo and I say good night to our friend Fatty Bolger and make our way to the door. I take a final glance around the room but do not see Rosie. I try to push a feeling of disappointment away.

We near the door, and, in shock, I almost stop walking. Standing in the doorway saying good night to the patrons is Rosie! My disappointment immediately disappears, and my heart feels light and starts pounding. I smile as I study her as Frodo and I approach.

She turns and gives us a beautiful smile and I am momentarily dazzled. She looks more beautiful at this moment than when she was at Bilbo's party.

"Good night," she says, bringing me out of my trance as I realize she's looking me in the eye.

"Good night," Frodo and I say.

I turn away, still feeling dazed by the unexpected effect Rosie had on me. But I smile as we walk, remembering the look she gave me.

"Good night –" a loud voice breaks into my thoughts, and Frodo and I look back. My blood boils at what I see.

Ted is settled at Rosie's feet. He sends her a flirty smile. I clench my fists. If I could just get my hands on him…

"—sweet maiden of the golden ale!" he finishes dramatically.

I glare at the lad angrily and then flick my gaze to Rosie. Her cheeks are as red as an apple, clearly embarrassed by Ted's words. But she smiles sweetly at him and nods her head. She says something I cannot make out.

"Mind who you're sweet talking," I growl softly at the hobbit's back, full of anger but also hurt because of Rosie's reaction. A hand rests on my shoulder, and I turn to Frodo, who looks at me with sympathy.

"Don't worry, Sam. Rosie knows an idiot when she sees one," he says.

I stop walking. "Does she?" I ask uncertainly before catching up with Frodo.

Rosie can have her pick of any lad, and if she wants Ted, there's nothing I can do. She has no idea how I feel about her. And why would she? I'm only a gardener.
I look back a final time and see Rosie watching us, a mixture of sadness and insecurity in her eyes. I wonder what has brought this about. I hold her gaze and then look away, my own head now swimming with wonderings and uncertainty.

THE END