Bookworm2000 - Bilbo is tricky, isn't he? The same skill with words that
helped him deal with gollum allows him to tease heck out of Saradoc too!
Midgette - I hate to see the end of the story coming too, since it's been so much fun writing and posting it. But the next one is just around the corner!
FrodoBaggins1982 - I also wonder at what age a hobbit is allowed to have an ale. I am assuming that few wait until the age of 33 when they're considered to be fully adults for all practical purposes. For the sake of this fic, I'm assuming that somewhere around 21 is considered old enough. Merry's still a little young, so that's why he didn't get a half - pint of his own. Poor dear!
Pebbles - Another happy chapter last time. Bilbo's offer will be dealt with very soon.
Heartofahobbit - I'm glad you've enjoyed my stories, and I hope you'll stick around for any that I come up with in the future. I sent you an e- mail about uploading stories to ff.net, and I hope it's helpful!
Gayalondiel - Will Frodo show his newfound confidence to Bargo and Reginard? Soon you'll know the answer to that question! Glad you like the hobbit interaction. It's so fun to write!
TTTurtle - We have a few more to go before we reach the end, but sadly, we are getting close. Frodo has seen some pretty scary stuff since leaving the Shire. Bargo and Reginard may be rotten, but Frodo knows they can be dealt with. A little Bree hospitality coming up!
Krista - The tension between Bilbo and Saradoc is certainly less than it was, now that a few things have been worked out. I will have Frodo confront Bargo and Reginard one last time. This incident did help Frodo to grow personally. He knows that he's got the strength to survive now.
Fool of a Took - Bilbo and Saradoc are contributing to the delinquency of - what? I'll have to ponder that one. I'd say after Frodo's adventures, an ale isn't likely to harm him. Poor Sardoc is bowing to pressure isn't he? I don't think Aiden will mind a hobbit party at his place. After all, it's just for one night, not for all time. If they were staying much longer, though, food might get to be a little scarce!
Camellia - Gamgee - Took - Maybe you're thinking of ale as tasting sweet when the hobbits drink it because they're so sweet? You mention the same Merry passage as others have. I don't know what it is, but I just can see Merry so clearly in my mind. He does or says something, and I write it obediently.
FantasyFan - Lots of hobbity happiness in the last chapter. The interlude is coming slowly to an end, as they prepare to return to the Shire. There are indeed loose ends to tie together when they get there.
Aratlithiel - Even the Master of Buckland has to have a laugh sometimes. Frodo is almost back to normal now. Merry is growing up quick, isn't he? Going to Bree, having ale with the big boys - he just might be chasing girls pretty soon after all! Aiden's going to have that 'herd of hobbits' at his door yet!
Chapter 24 - Final Night in Bree
~*~Aiden's house, late afternoon~*~
Saradoc paid the stable master for an extra night for their pony, and Frodo led the way to the quiet house that had sheltered him. They would rest there for the night, and retrieve the pony on the way to the gate and home.
Home - what a strange thought! Frodo hadn't been away from Brandy Hall for very long, but it seemed like ages. Still, it was home, wasn't it? He thought of the library with its hundreds of books and maps, his own small room which he'd not been made to share with anyone, even in the crowded warren that was Brandy Hall. The orchards brimming over with sweet, juicy apples at harvest, the hayfields lying golden in the sunlight and the river - yes, even the river came to mind as a part of the tableau which was home. And it seemed the river no longer mocked him, but merely was. It had its place, flowing steadily along between the banks as it always had and always would.
In a state of hopelessness and fear during his forced journey to Bree, Frodo had thought bitterly that Brandy Hall was not home, and that in truth a home was something he had not had since the loss of his parents. What made a place home then? If it was the presence of those who loved you and knew your love in return, Brandy Hall was home. Merry was there, and surely he loved Frodo as much as Frodo loved him. Shelter and physical comforts were provided by the Hall as well. Were they not part of what could be called home? If so, why did he feel so misplaced there?
There would be time to think of such things later, he reminded himself as they reached the door of the quiet little house. For now, he was surrounded by those he loved most, old friends and new, and nothing to threaten him.
"My guests have arrived," Aiden said with a grin as he welcomed the hobbits to his home. "Please make yourselves comfortable in the parlor," he said, taking their cloaks one by one and hanging them up with his good hand. His left arm was still in the sling, so Frodo made for the kitchen immediately to help prepare tea.
Merry looked around curiously. Aside from the Prancing Pony, this was the first time he had been inside any of the dwellings of men. How strange that the doors weren't round, and the entire structure was above the ground! And everything in it was so large! When he hopped up onto the sofa, his feet dangled several inches off the floor. It was almost comical to see Frodo standing on a chair in the kitchen to reach the cupboard where the cups and saucers were neatly stacked.
Within a few moments, tea was steeping, bread was warming, and the preparation of what promised to be a fine meal was underway in the kitchen. What Frodo couldn't reach Aiden handed down to him, and Frodo in turn acted as a second pair of hands to help accomplish what was difficult for Aiden with his injury.
Aiden and Frodo rejoined the rest of the group in the parlor, sipping tea and warming themselves before the fire. Aiden carefully removed the sling and flexed his arm. It was sore, and likely would be for some days, but the wound was already healing and he was able to move it more each time he made an effort.
He hoped that Mira would be pleased with his progress. The thought brought a smile to his face. A wounded arm was a small price to pay for a good reason to call on her. His eyes were drawn inevitably to the portrait above the mantel.
"They would be pleased, I think," Bilbo said, as if reading the man's thoughts. Frodo had told him of Aiden's family and his loss three years earlier. "One cannot mourn forever, my good man," Bilbo stated firmly. "Somehow I doubt that they would wish you to do so."
"Well said, Bilbo," Aiden replied, still gazing at the portrait. "I believe you are correct, although it seems strange somehow." He had honestly thought he would remain alone indefinitely following Morinda's death. In his grief he had not been able to imagine otherwise. Now, here in this warm, cheerful room, surrounded by new friends and new possibilities, he felt somehow that Morinda would understand and would possibly even be relieved to find him eschewing his loneliness.
"Though they are no longer present physically in your life, they will never really leave you," Bilbo said, sipping his tea thoughtfully. "Just because your life continues and changes doesn't mean you will ever forget them or treasure their memory any less."
"What a wise uncle you have, Frodo," Aiden said with genuine admiration. "Wise and quite mysterious, if I may," he ventured, giving Bilbo a sly look. "That was quite a trick you managed the other night."
Bilbo chuckled. He hadn't really thought he would be allowed to get away with disappearing right in front of them and not explaining himself afterward. "I hope you are in the mood for an extraordinary tale, for I have one or two," he said, and Saradoc rolled his eyes.
Merry and Frodo grinned at each other. It was always fun to hear Bilbo tell his stories, even if they'd heard them before. After all, how many hobbits in the Shire counted Wizards, Elves and Dwarves among their friends, and had traveled to far away lands?
Bilbo launched into the tale of the discovery of the ring in Gollum's cave and the game of riddles that followed. Laughter rang out as Bilbo told of the final 'riddle' he had used to best the creature.
"Quite a tale indeed, Bilbo," Aiden acknowledged. "Who would have thought such a thing could come in so handy even years hence?"
Bilbo patted his weskit pocket rather wistfully. "Very useful indeed, it seems, but I believe Gandalf would glower at me for making use of it. He has been rather odd about the subject on occasion," he mused. Trust a Wizard to find something to worry about, especially if it involved a magic ring.
A loud rapping at the door interrupted the conversation. "Now who could that be?" Aiden mused, rising to answer the summons. Standing on the doorstep were none other than Otto Mugwort and Anton Burrows.
"A pleasure to see both of you," Aiden said, ushering them inside. "What brings you by, gentlehobbits?"
Mugwort eyed him with mild concern. "We'd heard you had some trouble and we came by to see if we could be of help." His gaze roved around the room and found the other hobbits in the parlor. "We didn't know you had guests. Please forgive the intrusion."
Aiden laughed. "It's no intrusion at all, my friend." He introduced Bilbo, Saradoc and Merry, as Frodo poured two more cups of tea for the newcomers. Within moments, they were all shaking hands and family trees in true hobbit fashion, as Aiden and Frodo stepped into the kitchen to see to the rest of the supper preparations.
Animated conversation and laugher floated through the house as the fire crackled merrily. Aiden was suddenly very glad that the Fever had spared him, for moments such as this were well worth living for.
~*~Aiden's house, the following morning~*~
Frodo folded a shirt and handed it to Bilbo, watching as the aged hobbit tucked it into his pack. "I'm sorry your visit didn't go as planned, Uncle," he said quietly. "I'm sure you never expected - "
"Frodo, there is no need at all to apologize to me," he said sternly. "None of this was any fault of yours, my boy."
Frodo nodded. He knew Bilbo was right, but he still felt as if much inconvenience had come about because of him. "I never dreamed anything like this could happen," he said quietly. "It's been an extraordinary adventure, and while I will miss Aiden, it will be good to be home again."
"Hmmmm," Bilbo grunted. How to begin, regarding that very subject? "Frodo, are you happy at Brandy Hall? I mean truly happy?" Bilbo searched Frodo's face for any glimmer of the truth he sought.
Frodo looked at Bilbo suspiciously. "Well, yes. That is, I suppose I am. I never lack for anything I need, and Merry is always there for me. Why do you ask?"
Bilbo took a deep breath. It was now or never. "There is more to being happy than merely being provided for, lad. I know Merry is a good friend to you, but what of your true feelings regarding the Hall?" He stopped packing and turned to hold Frodo's gaze with his own. "I've seen the look in your eyes, my boy. I've seen how you keep to yourself so much of the time. I remember our conversation in the hayloft several years ago, when you said that unless you're in trouble, no one seems to notice you."
Frodo cast his eyes down and fidgeted with one of the straps on the pack. "I cannot deny that I feel rather out of place from time to time." He pictured one of those old wooden puzzles he had played with as a child. The pieces all fit together to make the shape of something recognizable, but only if they were in their proper places. Was he not in his proper place then?
"Frodo, I have been thinking about this for some time, and recent events have pressed me to make a decision. I feel less and less that Brandy Hall is the best place for you," Bilbo said quietly, hoping he wasn't pushing the boy away from him somehow. "I want you to consider coming back to Bag End with me."
Frodo's head snapped up and he stared at Bilbo with a surprised expression. "You mean, you want me to come to Hobbiton? To - to stay?" Frodo was trying to imagine living in a place like Bag End. It had been described to him as such a large, spacious dwelling, and with no crowd of relatives to be constantly pressing in around him.
"Regardless of what is to be done about Bargo and Reginard, I feel that Bag End would be more suited to you, lad. You would be safe and comfortable there, Frodo." Bilbo allowed a smile to lift the corners of his mouth. "I know an old, cranky, eccentric hobbit like me is a poor substitute for the young, lively company you have in Merry, but you would have privacy when you want it, a great lot of books to read and countryside to roam. I should like to begin teaching you the basics of Elvish, if you've an interest in the language," Bilbo offered, hoping he wasn't overwhelming the lad.
"How extraordinary!" Frodo was looking off into space, with an odd look on his face. He would indeed miss Merry very much if he were to leave Brandy Hall, but the thought of going to Bag End appealed to him very much. He would love to learn Elvish, and he truly enjoyed Bilbo's company.
"The fact is, Frodo lad, I care for you very much and I cannot stand to see you feeling sad, frightened or lonely. I cannot brook the idea of you being in danger of any sort, and the events of the last few days have quite decided me on the issue." Bilbo's eyes shone with unshed tears as he spoke. "The choice is yours entirely, but I am urging you to choose Bag End."
Frodo felt a lump rising in his throat as he thought back to how Bilbo had consoled him in the hayloft, and had gotten him to admit the trouble he was having with his enemies. And now he had come all the way to Bree and risked everything to save him, to protect him and bring him home. Not just to take him back to where he came from, but to offer him a true home, a place where he could belong without question.
Without a word, Frodo flung his arms around Bilbo and hugged him hard. When he could finally speak, he said, "Yes, Uncle! I will go with you to Bag End, if you wish. I would like that very much. More than anything."
"From now on, we can celebrate our birthdays together," Bilbo joked, trying to break the tension. He was answered by a small laugh from Frodo and another hug.
The two stood and embraced in silence, and Frodo felt for the first time since he was very young that he was truly going home. He wasn't going someplace where his family was forced to make room for him suddenly and to provide for him because it was their duty. He was going where he was actually wanted, where he would be accepted and loved for who he was. Home.
~*~
"Are you ready for your journey back to the Shire, Frodo?" Aiden asked quietly. Frodo nodded. A moment later the young hobbit gave up the search for appropriate words and simply hugged his friend with all his might.
"I miss my home, but I shall miss you too," Frodo finally said. "I still have not properly repaid your kindness."
"Repay it by being well and being safe, young friend," Aiden replied.
"Will I ever see you again?" Frodo thought it unlikely. Aiden's travels to the Shire usually took him to the southern regions where most of the pipeweed plantations were to be found. As Merry had noted at the inn, Buckland was out of the way, not to mention Hobbiton.
"One never knows what road one may travel, Frodo," Aiden said, smiling. "If you should find yourself in Bree with any time to spare, you and your family are always welcome here."
"Thank you," Frodo said as Bilbo came to stand at his side.
"We must be off, Frodo," Bilbo prodded gently. "Aiden, your kindness will not be forgotten. Thank you for taking care of our dear boy."
"A pleasure, Bilbo. Safe journey to you all." Amid waving and well - wishing, the hobbits turned and made their way toward the inn to collect the pony.
As they walked, Bilbo draped an arm over Frodo's shoulders. "Saying goodbye to a friend is never easy, Frodo," he sighed. "For every greeting there is a farewell. It's simply the nature of things."
"And I shall have to say farewell to Merry soon as well," Frodo said quietly, watching as Merry walked ahead of him at his father's side. "Do you think I'll find new friends in Hobbiton, Uncle?" Frodo desperately wanted an end to his lonely, misplaced feelings. What if he arrived in Hobbiton and found only indifference or worse?
"You needn't worry about finding friends, my dear lad. The Gamgees live a few doors down from Bag End and are a lively lot," Bilbo explained. "Their youngest boy, Samwise, is a little younger than you and Merry, but he's a friendly lad. His older brothers are solid chaps as well." He began to list more names. "There are the Boffins and Goodbodies, and many more families you'll become acquainted with."
As they walked, Bilbo continued to talk of Bag End and Hobbiton, and Frodo smiled at the promises of long walks in the morning sunshine and studying Elvish by the fire in the evenings. He would be happy there, he was certain, and thinking about it helped drive away his sorrow at parting with his newfound friend.
~*~To be continued~*~
Midgette - I hate to see the end of the story coming too, since it's been so much fun writing and posting it. But the next one is just around the corner!
FrodoBaggins1982 - I also wonder at what age a hobbit is allowed to have an ale. I am assuming that few wait until the age of 33 when they're considered to be fully adults for all practical purposes. For the sake of this fic, I'm assuming that somewhere around 21 is considered old enough. Merry's still a little young, so that's why he didn't get a half - pint of his own. Poor dear!
Pebbles - Another happy chapter last time. Bilbo's offer will be dealt with very soon.
Heartofahobbit - I'm glad you've enjoyed my stories, and I hope you'll stick around for any that I come up with in the future. I sent you an e- mail about uploading stories to ff.net, and I hope it's helpful!
Gayalondiel - Will Frodo show his newfound confidence to Bargo and Reginard? Soon you'll know the answer to that question! Glad you like the hobbit interaction. It's so fun to write!
TTTurtle - We have a few more to go before we reach the end, but sadly, we are getting close. Frodo has seen some pretty scary stuff since leaving the Shire. Bargo and Reginard may be rotten, but Frodo knows they can be dealt with. A little Bree hospitality coming up!
Krista - The tension between Bilbo and Saradoc is certainly less than it was, now that a few things have been worked out. I will have Frodo confront Bargo and Reginard one last time. This incident did help Frodo to grow personally. He knows that he's got the strength to survive now.
Fool of a Took - Bilbo and Saradoc are contributing to the delinquency of - what? I'll have to ponder that one. I'd say after Frodo's adventures, an ale isn't likely to harm him. Poor Sardoc is bowing to pressure isn't he? I don't think Aiden will mind a hobbit party at his place. After all, it's just for one night, not for all time. If they were staying much longer, though, food might get to be a little scarce!
Camellia - Gamgee - Took - Maybe you're thinking of ale as tasting sweet when the hobbits drink it because they're so sweet? You mention the same Merry passage as others have. I don't know what it is, but I just can see Merry so clearly in my mind. He does or says something, and I write it obediently.
FantasyFan - Lots of hobbity happiness in the last chapter. The interlude is coming slowly to an end, as they prepare to return to the Shire. There are indeed loose ends to tie together when they get there.
Aratlithiel - Even the Master of Buckland has to have a laugh sometimes. Frodo is almost back to normal now. Merry is growing up quick, isn't he? Going to Bree, having ale with the big boys - he just might be chasing girls pretty soon after all! Aiden's going to have that 'herd of hobbits' at his door yet!
Chapter 24 - Final Night in Bree
~*~Aiden's house, late afternoon~*~
Saradoc paid the stable master for an extra night for their pony, and Frodo led the way to the quiet house that had sheltered him. They would rest there for the night, and retrieve the pony on the way to the gate and home.
Home - what a strange thought! Frodo hadn't been away from Brandy Hall for very long, but it seemed like ages. Still, it was home, wasn't it? He thought of the library with its hundreds of books and maps, his own small room which he'd not been made to share with anyone, even in the crowded warren that was Brandy Hall. The orchards brimming over with sweet, juicy apples at harvest, the hayfields lying golden in the sunlight and the river - yes, even the river came to mind as a part of the tableau which was home. And it seemed the river no longer mocked him, but merely was. It had its place, flowing steadily along between the banks as it always had and always would.
In a state of hopelessness and fear during his forced journey to Bree, Frodo had thought bitterly that Brandy Hall was not home, and that in truth a home was something he had not had since the loss of his parents. What made a place home then? If it was the presence of those who loved you and knew your love in return, Brandy Hall was home. Merry was there, and surely he loved Frodo as much as Frodo loved him. Shelter and physical comforts were provided by the Hall as well. Were they not part of what could be called home? If so, why did he feel so misplaced there?
There would be time to think of such things later, he reminded himself as they reached the door of the quiet little house. For now, he was surrounded by those he loved most, old friends and new, and nothing to threaten him.
"My guests have arrived," Aiden said with a grin as he welcomed the hobbits to his home. "Please make yourselves comfortable in the parlor," he said, taking their cloaks one by one and hanging them up with his good hand. His left arm was still in the sling, so Frodo made for the kitchen immediately to help prepare tea.
Merry looked around curiously. Aside from the Prancing Pony, this was the first time he had been inside any of the dwellings of men. How strange that the doors weren't round, and the entire structure was above the ground! And everything in it was so large! When he hopped up onto the sofa, his feet dangled several inches off the floor. It was almost comical to see Frodo standing on a chair in the kitchen to reach the cupboard where the cups and saucers were neatly stacked.
Within a few moments, tea was steeping, bread was warming, and the preparation of what promised to be a fine meal was underway in the kitchen. What Frodo couldn't reach Aiden handed down to him, and Frodo in turn acted as a second pair of hands to help accomplish what was difficult for Aiden with his injury.
Aiden and Frodo rejoined the rest of the group in the parlor, sipping tea and warming themselves before the fire. Aiden carefully removed the sling and flexed his arm. It was sore, and likely would be for some days, but the wound was already healing and he was able to move it more each time he made an effort.
He hoped that Mira would be pleased with his progress. The thought brought a smile to his face. A wounded arm was a small price to pay for a good reason to call on her. His eyes were drawn inevitably to the portrait above the mantel.
"They would be pleased, I think," Bilbo said, as if reading the man's thoughts. Frodo had told him of Aiden's family and his loss three years earlier. "One cannot mourn forever, my good man," Bilbo stated firmly. "Somehow I doubt that they would wish you to do so."
"Well said, Bilbo," Aiden replied, still gazing at the portrait. "I believe you are correct, although it seems strange somehow." He had honestly thought he would remain alone indefinitely following Morinda's death. In his grief he had not been able to imagine otherwise. Now, here in this warm, cheerful room, surrounded by new friends and new possibilities, he felt somehow that Morinda would understand and would possibly even be relieved to find him eschewing his loneliness.
"Though they are no longer present physically in your life, they will never really leave you," Bilbo said, sipping his tea thoughtfully. "Just because your life continues and changes doesn't mean you will ever forget them or treasure their memory any less."
"What a wise uncle you have, Frodo," Aiden said with genuine admiration. "Wise and quite mysterious, if I may," he ventured, giving Bilbo a sly look. "That was quite a trick you managed the other night."
Bilbo chuckled. He hadn't really thought he would be allowed to get away with disappearing right in front of them and not explaining himself afterward. "I hope you are in the mood for an extraordinary tale, for I have one or two," he said, and Saradoc rolled his eyes.
Merry and Frodo grinned at each other. It was always fun to hear Bilbo tell his stories, even if they'd heard them before. After all, how many hobbits in the Shire counted Wizards, Elves and Dwarves among their friends, and had traveled to far away lands?
Bilbo launched into the tale of the discovery of the ring in Gollum's cave and the game of riddles that followed. Laughter rang out as Bilbo told of the final 'riddle' he had used to best the creature.
"Quite a tale indeed, Bilbo," Aiden acknowledged. "Who would have thought such a thing could come in so handy even years hence?"
Bilbo patted his weskit pocket rather wistfully. "Very useful indeed, it seems, but I believe Gandalf would glower at me for making use of it. He has been rather odd about the subject on occasion," he mused. Trust a Wizard to find something to worry about, especially if it involved a magic ring.
A loud rapping at the door interrupted the conversation. "Now who could that be?" Aiden mused, rising to answer the summons. Standing on the doorstep were none other than Otto Mugwort and Anton Burrows.
"A pleasure to see both of you," Aiden said, ushering them inside. "What brings you by, gentlehobbits?"
Mugwort eyed him with mild concern. "We'd heard you had some trouble and we came by to see if we could be of help." His gaze roved around the room and found the other hobbits in the parlor. "We didn't know you had guests. Please forgive the intrusion."
Aiden laughed. "It's no intrusion at all, my friend." He introduced Bilbo, Saradoc and Merry, as Frodo poured two more cups of tea for the newcomers. Within moments, they were all shaking hands and family trees in true hobbit fashion, as Aiden and Frodo stepped into the kitchen to see to the rest of the supper preparations.
Animated conversation and laugher floated through the house as the fire crackled merrily. Aiden was suddenly very glad that the Fever had spared him, for moments such as this were well worth living for.
~*~Aiden's house, the following morning~*~
Frodo folded a shirt and handed it to Bilbo, watching as the aged hobbit tucked it into his pack. "I'm sorry your visit didn't go as planned, Uncle," he said quietly. "I'm sure you never expected - "
"Frodo, there is no need at all to apologize to me," he said sternly. "None of this was any fault of yours, my boy."
Frodo nodded. He knew Bilbo was right, but he still felt as if much inconvenience had come about because of him. "I never dreamed anything like this could happen," he said quietly. "It's been an extraordinary adventure, and while I will miss Aiden, it will be good to be home again."
"Hmmmm," Bilbo grunted. How to begin, regarding that very subject? "Frodo, are you happy at Brandy Hall? I mean truly happy?" Bilbo searched Frodo's face for any glimmer of the truth he sought.
Frodo looked at Bilbo suspiciously. "Well, yes. That is, I suppose I am. I never lack for anything I need, and Merry is always there for me. Why do you ask?"
Bilbo took a deep breath. It was now or never. "There is more to being happy than merely being provided for, lad. I know Merry is a good friend to you, but what of your true feelings regarding the Hall?" He stopped packing and turned to hold Frodo's gaze with his own. "I've seen the look in your eyes, my boy. I've seen how you keep to yourself so much of the time. I remember our conversation in the hayloft several years ago, when you said that unless you're in trouble, no one seems to notice you."
Frodo cast his eyes down and fidgeted with one of the straps on the pack. "I cannot deny that I feel rather out of place from time to time." He pictured one of those old wooden puzzles he had played with as a child. The pieces all fit together to make the shape of something recognizable, but only if they were in their proper places. Was he not in his proper place then?
"Frodo, I have been thinking about this for some time, and recent events have pressed me to make a decision. I feel less and less that Brandy Hall is the best place for you," Bilbo said quietly, hoping he wasn't pushing the boy away from him somehow. "I want you to consider coming back to Bag End with me."
Frodo's head snapped up and he stared at Bilbo with a surprised expression. "You mean, you want me to come to Hobbiton? To - to stay?" Frodo was trying to imagine living in a place like Bag End. It had been described to him as such a large, spacious dwelling, and with no crowd of relatives to be constantly pressing in around him.
"Regardless of what is to be done about Bargo and Reginard, I feel that Bag End would be more suited to you, lad. You would be safe and comfortable there, Frodo." Bilbo allowed a smile to lift the corners of his mouth. "I know an old, cranky, eccentric hobbit like me is a poor substitute for the young, lively company you have in Merry, but you would have privacy when you want it, a great lot of books to read and countryside to roam. I should like to begin teaching you the basics of Elvish, if you've an interest in the language," Bilbo offered, hoping he wasn't overwhelming the lad.
"How extraordinary!" Frodo was looking off into space, with an odd look on his face. He would indeed miss Merry very much if he were to leave Brandy Hall, but the thought of going to Bag End appealed to him very much. He would love to learn Elvish, and he truly enjoyed Bilbo's company.
"The fact is, Frodo lad, I care for you very much and I cannot stand to see you feeling sad, frightened or lonely. I cannot brook the idea of you being in danger of any sort, and the events of the last few days have quite decided me on the issue." Bilbo's eyes shone with unshed tears as he spoke. "The choice is yours entirely, but I am urging you to choose Bag End."
Frodo felt a lump rising in his throat as he thought back to how Bilbo had consoled him in the hayloft, and had gotten him to admit the trouble he was having with his enemies. And now he had come all the way to Bree and risked everything to save him, to protect him and bring him home. Not just to take him back to where he came from, but to offer him a true home, a place where he could belong without question.
Without a word, Frodo flung his arms around Bilbo and hugged him hard. When he could finally speak, he said, "Yes, Uncle! I will go with you to Bag End, if you wish. I would like that very much. More than anything."
"From now on, we can celebrate our birthdays together," Bilbo joked, trying to break the tension. He was answered by a small laugh from Frodo and another hug.
The two stood and embraced in silence, and Frodo felt for the first time since he was very young that he was truly going home. He wasn't going someplace where his family was forced to make room for him suddenly and to provide for him because it was their duty. He was going where he was actually wanted, where he would be accepted and loved for who he was. Home.
~*~
"Are you ready for your journey back to the Shire, Frodo?" Aiden asked quietly. Frodo nodded. A moment later the young hobbit gave up the search for appropriate words and simply hugged his friend with all his might.
"I miss my home, but I shall miss you too," Frodo finally said. "I still have not properly repaid your kindness."
"Repay it by being well and being safe, young friend," Aiden replied.
"Will I ever see you again?" Frodo thought it unlikely. Aiden's travels to the Shire usually took him to the southern regions where most of the pipeweed plantations were to be found. As Merry had noted at the inn, Buckland was out of the way, not to mention Hobbiton.
"One never knows what road one may travel, Frodo," Aiden said, smiling. "If you should find yourself in Bree with any time to spare, you and your family are always welcome here."
"Thank you," Frodo said as Bilbo came to stand at his side.
"We must be off, Frodo," Bilbo prodded gently. "Aiden, your kindness will not be forgotten. Thank you for taking care of our dear boy."
"A pleasure, Bilbo. Safe journey to you all." Amid waving and well - wishing, the hobbits turned and made their way toward the inn to collect the pony.
As they walked, Bilbo draped an arm over Frodo's shoulders. "Saying goodbye to a friend is never easy, Frodo," he sighed. "For every greeting there is a farewell. It's simply the nature of things."
"And I shall have to say farewell to Merry soon as well," Frodo said quietly, watching as Merry walked ahead of him at his father's side. "Do you think I'll find new friends in Hobbiton, Uncle?" Frodo desperately wanted an end to his lonely, misplaced feelings. What if he arrived in Hobbiton and found only indifference or worse?
"You needn't worry about finding friends, my dear lad. The Gamgees live a few doors down from Bag End and are a lively lot," Bilbo explained. "Their youngest boy, Samwise, is a little younger than you and Merry, but he's a friendly lad. His older brothers are solid chaps as well." He began to list more names. "There are the Boffins and Goodbodies, and many more families you'll become acquainted with."
As they walked, Bilbo continued to talk of Bag End and Hobbiton, and Frodo smiled at the promises of long walks in the morning sunshine and studying Elvish by the fire in the evenings. He would be happy there, he was certain, and thinking about it helped drive away his sorrow at parting with his newfound friend.
~*~To be continued~*~