Third chapter: Surprises


Will you finally get up now? Frodo!
Leave me, Merry, Im tired...
Merry crossed his arms before his chest and grumbled quietly. He would manage to get his stubborn cousin out of the bed.
He let the sunlight in and it flooded the room with bright golden light. Frodo squinted.
re tormenting me. Leave me alone! he muttered and turned, but Merry reacted at once and pulled away his blanket.
Fatty is here with news for you. Dont you want to know it?
No... go away! Frodo grumbled, grabbed his pillow and put it on his head, so Merry also had to take this one to finally move Frodo to get up.
I hate you, Frodo murmured and quickly looked at him with a glance that stressed his words.
Come on, you already missed the first breakfast! Youve been staying in bed for too long already. Merry sighed and could not help but smile. If Frodo hated him for that, he would be dead very soon.
He left him and returned to the kitchen to wait. And surprisingly it did not take a long time until Frodo had washed and changed his clothes, but in his face there was an unhappy impression to be seen when he entered the kitchen.
There was Liliane sitting beside Merry and listening to him narrating something.
Frodo suddenly halted and considered running away, then getting a sword and stabbing Merry the traitor, but he did none of that and smiled instead. After all it took him only a second to cheer up at once.
Good morning, Frodo! Liliane greeted him and he felt he nearly blushed as he gazed at her, looking happy with red cheeks and a warm smile.
Good morning... I didnt expect to... he said, but then interrupted himself. Of course he didnt expect her to be there, Merry had said something about Fatty... since he would never have come down if he had known that she was there.
He sat down slowly and then let his view roam about the table to find something good to eat while Merry continued telling Liliane more about his adventures in Rohan and Gondor.
Sometimes Frodo just watched her in silence while he was eating slowly, he looked at her soft dark curls surrounding her pretty face and nearly sighed, but then forced himself not to do so.
Now it was all too late. She was there and he had to try and find a way to go on now.
She looked so beautiful.
Then unexpectedly Merry rose and exclaimed: I have to go and get something for lunch, please excuse me! and he left the two of them alone in the kitchen.
Frodo swallowed. Merry was doomed to die if he caught him!
Ehm... well... have you been here for long already? he finally asked and looked down at his sandwich. He was so ashamed that she now knew he was able to lie in bed until noon... or nearly noon, but did that matter? What would she think of him now?
Oh no... no, Merry came and invited me for a second breakfast. He said youd be happy if Id come, she explained and he raised his head. Their eyes met.
Oh... yes, sure, Im glad... indeed, Frodo stammered and took another bite.
He told me about the journey you went on some years ago. He - well, he mentioned that it wasnt easy... very dangerous! she said.
Slowly Frodo nodded. Well... hes right, but it wasnt better when we returned home and found everything siezed by these devils of Sharkey. It must have been terrible here.
Liliane took her cup and drank a little tea before she answered. Still she did not take her eyes off him.
It was. These ruffians often broke into our house searching for my husband who had stolen the pipe-weed they had taken illegitimately. I... I often feared he would be arrested and punished, but they didnt get him. And then he was taken by the river, years later and without a warning...
She fell silent. They only looked at each other, saying nothing and simply knowing they understood each other, but Liliane noticed him taking away his right hand, forever marked by his scar.
The river is the reason for much grief. I only moved to Hobbiton, invited by my uncle Bilbo, because I lost my parents on the Brandywine. I know how it feels.
Frodo lowered his gaze and sighed. He pondered about why she had spoken of her lost husband.
Shall... we go for a walk, maybe? she suggested and Frodo nodded. Quietly they left Brandy Hall and went through the garden, heading for the road that led to the forest. They did not notice that Merry observed them. For a long time they walked in silence, close to each other and exchanging shy glances from time to time. They heard the bees humming and saw butterflies in the meadow when they went up a hill and then sat down in the middle of the pleasantly smelling grass and the colorful flowers. There was the blue sky above them and the sun warmed them as they sat beside each other.
You have never been married, have you? Liliane asked suddenly. Frodo looked at her and answered after a pause: No. There... there was no opportunity. And then I left the Shire for so long a time and it was all different when I returned... my life had been in danger. I often thought it was better not to hurt someone.
These were honest words. Still he did not want to hurt Liliane.
Yes... but see, my husband never left the Shire and he is dead. You are not. Danger is everywhere. And I still remember his words - he did not want to see me unhappy and Im not. Today it's not as bad to be without him. I have moved on in my life. But Id like better not to be alone.
Frodo noticed the illusion she made, but he only said and nothing else. He couldnt. There was so much affection for her inside of him, but still he didnt dare to confess. She had wanted to encourage him, but he simply couldnt.
And she noticed, since she said: Let us return to Merry.
Frodo nodded and rose, gaping at her in an excusing manner. He felt sorry for his behaviour, but she just smiled and they went back.
It was a wonderful time, she stated when they had reached the gardens gate. Frodo took a deep breath and said: I think so, too. I hope well meet again soon!
Goodbye, Frodo, she answered and left then. This time Frodo turned around quickly and didnt watch her as she left, he approached the door and entered the building again.
It had not been as bad as he had feared! She seemed to like him despite of all the difficulties that there were, he had not been eaten alive and she had looked happy.
What had he been afraid of before?
She was patient.
Look at what I have here, Merry said when he showed up in the hallway, holding a cheese sandwich in his hands.

No... but that looks fantastic, so I cant help but eat it! Frodo replied smiling and both of them walked into the kitchen where they sat down together.
She likes you. Its so obvious!
Oh, Merry, did you know I was about to kill you this morning? Youre nasty, my cousin! How could you... what did you tell her when you went to fetch her?
Merry blushed. He had been trapped. Frodo knew what he had done. As if it had been her own idea to come! Shed never have dared to.
I just said that youd be happy to meet her again, so she... well, she left me and moments later she returned with that dress she wore now. Imagine, she changed...
Oh Merry! It was such an awkward situation!
Yes, but what was I supposed to do? Was I to watch you suffer like that? Shed have loved to come, but you know she had to wait for you and you stupid Hobbit... ah. Its enough when Im the one to do it all wrong. I mean, youre important to her and you love her, so why...
Merry was right. Of course he was and Frodo told him, but that didnt change the situation. Still he was the one to do it all, he had to go and confess it, he was obliged to if he ever wanted to be close to her.
Thanks. I could still kill you! Frodo laughed and then the two of them considered a plan.
Frodo should go back home to Hobbiton and reflect upon the situation. Merry knew that Frodo would find his courage when he would begin to miss her. He himself had never been far enough to really miss Estella, but he realized he should finally speak.
You will know what to do when you cant find any sleep because of being without her, he said and Frodo smiled.
re the one to say so, my dear cousin - but I guess youre right. Well then, Ill leave tomorrow.
A little bit of happiness settled in him and could not be driven out anymore.

Will you tell me a story now, Uncle Frodo?
Which one would you like to hear, Ellie?
Oh... tell me a new one!
So Frodo did. He was lying on the grass in the garden of Bag End and Elanor beside him was eating some sweets while he began to tell her a story about a shy Hobbit who had never expected to fall in love and then couldnt confess his love.
You mean Uncle Merry! Is he getting married? the girl asked, but Frodo shook his head.
The answer to all your questions is no. Merry has not spoken yet and its not him of whom I speak... but it could be him, youre right.
Then who is it?
You will find out.
She shrugged. Again her uncle didnt want to tell her things. She had already asked why she would have a little sibling soon, but no one had told her. Adults could be so strange.
And strange Frodo behaved, always daydreaming and wholly being in thoughts all the time. Often Frodo was lying on his bed or somewhere else, his head on his hands, and he just stared somewhere, focusing on nothing special.
He always saw her in his thoughts. He saw her moving and heard her laughing, saw her smile and her beautiful green eyes. He could not get her out of his head, and he didnt want to. But still he had drawn no conclusion on what was to be done.
Sam looked at him with special intentions. Frodo could not hide that something had happened in Buckland, but he had not told him so far and Sam did not ask. He knew that Frodo would come and speak to him when he wanted to and he didnt want to provoke an awkward situation.
Still the situation troubled him. Frodo was not fine at all and there was a strange expression on his face. He was not unhappy, but he was not without worries either. Sam had no idea what could be wrong.
One evening they were sitting together in the comfortable living-room in front of the chimney, smoking pipe-weed and just enjoying themselves for a while.
Suddenly Frodo asked: What is it, Sam? Theres something youd like to ask, so ask!
Sam was startled at first, then turned his head to Frodo and their eyes met. Night had fallen already and the candles flame was flickering a little. Its smoke melted with the blue smoke of the pipes and was slowly drawing across the room. Sam had watched it up to the moment when Frodo had spoken to him and now answered: Well, yes, Master Frodo... you have changed since your return from Buckland. I noticed that. What happened?
Sam, I always ask myself whether I should dare to tell someone of the quest. Isnt it too horrifying for someone who never heard of something like that before?
Sam raised his eyebrows and frowned.
And who should that be?
Well, I... I think I could dare to, but on the other hand I dont want to. I mean, I... I am afraid that... the truth...
What is it, Master Frodo? Sam asked and took Frodos hand in his. Frodo started.
That... this is what I mean, but... but she is so wonderful...
Sams eyes grew wide. Who was she? What did Frodo still hide? Whom had he met?
I... I felt that she understood me, but I will not frighten her by telling her of all these events. Still Id so much like to talk to her...
Slowly Sam understood and searched for words to say.
And she would find out, I cant hide it forever! Frodo added.
Who are you talking about, Frodo?
Frodo let his pipe sink and looked at Sam for a long time before he said: I met Liliane Bolger on a walk one afternoon. She... she is so friendly and she has such a good heart, she... she let me feel that she even understood me when I didnt speak. I -I miss her, more than words can say.
For a while Sam did not know what to say. He understood what Frodo had been talking about, but he did not know what to think. He was surprised, but in a pleasant way.
Then Frodo took the time to report all the events to Sam who only listened to his words.
Frodo mentioned everything, her lost husband and his fear and worries.
When he had ended, Sam looked at him with an encouraging smile.
It sounds so wonderful, Frodo. You wont believe how happy I am to hear that! I mean, I had always hoped that this would happen some day, and now... but what do you fear?
A quick glance was enough to tell him.
, Sam said, it is a problem indeed. But believe me, we will find a way to solve it. You love her and if she loves you, too, you belong together. You will achieve that.
They continued with their conversation for a while and both watched the candles flame which didnt want to burn down, just like the intense feeling of love that Frodo had. He didnt want to let this feeling die, it should grow and it should live. Slowly he was convinced that it couldnt be wrong to let it happen.

The weeks passed like that. Frodo didnt consider returning to Buckland before Merrys birthday, he had spoken to his cousin about the party and Merry soon sent an invitation to Bag End, addressed to all inhabitants.
Uncle Merry will be forty-one, just imagine! Frodo said and Elanors eyes grew wide.
Sooo old! I will only be three next year. And we will all go to Buckland now?
Yes, dear, we will. You see, now youll get a chance to visit Buckland yourself.
Shrieking in joy Elanor ran through the smial and spoke of nothing else than her trip to Uncle Merry in three weeks. It was still a long time, but day by day it passed and Frodo noticed Sam always having a happy smile on his face. Frodo knew why, he just had to look at Rosie who was already growing round a little. Sam was so proud that she was expecting a baby. He would be the father of two children soon!
If its another girl, shell be called Rose, he said, but dont tell my dear Rosie. She will think Im silly. And if its a boy, it will be a little Frodo!
s also silly, my dear Sam, but I know you are stubborn. I didnt forget that Elanor would also be Frodo, but since shes a girl, you had to wait and, well, do what you like... Frodo replied to that.
He guessed it would be a boy. And it would be hard not to always mix them up - they had to find a nickname for the child!
Children... he loved Elanor, but he was only her uncle. It would be wonderful to be a father...
Finally the day of their departure arrived. They went to Buckland a few days before the party because they would like to help arranging everything. Riding some ponies they had gotten from Farmer Cotton, they made their way down to the ferry. Elanor was sitting in front of Sam and so excited that even the adults didnt remain unaffected by that. It was her first journey somewhere out of Hobbiton, for so young a child it was a real adventure. When they reached the Brandywine, Sam had to take care that she didnt run into the water. Unlike him, his daughter wasnt afraid of the river and he disliked it very much.
The water can be dangerous when youre unable to swim, he explained, but the girl answered: Then teach me! Please, Daddy...
Your Daddy cant swim, Ellie, but I can. If you're a good girl I'll teach you sometime, Frodo offered.
Oh yes! she exclaimed and hugged him fiercely. Frodo smiled when he saw Sams worried face.
My child...? he just muttered and the answer was a very angry one by Rosie.
Yes, your child, my dear Sam! Any doubts?
Eh - who does she have that from? You? he asked. Rosie shook her head.
No, but my brothers can swim and my father... so be quiet!
Sam shrugged, but still looked at Elanor in a very confused way. That was really unlike him.
They crossed the river by taking the Ferry, but Frodo had to go twice to take the ponies after the little Gamgee family had already reached the eastern riverbank.
In the evening of the second day after their departure from Hobbiton, they reached Brandy Hall and were greeted by Merry very cheerfully.
I didnt expect to see you so soon! But come in - oh, Ellie! Come here! he cried and embraced the little girl.
How beautiful you are, and youve grown so much since I last saw you!
Uncle Merry... she interrupted him.
What is it?
Will you marry soon?
Rosie burst out in amused laughter and Sam grinned. When Merry looked at Frodo, he found a little more understanding, but still he felt awkward.
Mh, you know, Ill see... I still have to speak and then I will marry.
And you will have many children who I can play with! Elanor said and it sounded as if she demanded it. Merry blushed and replied: That would be nice, wouldnt it?
She smiled at him broadly. He took her on his arm and said: ll kidnap your daugther, Sam, if you let me!
Go on, Sam replied and laughed. Free us from this burden!
Again Rosie looked at him very unhappily. Free from the burden... good idea, she said and Sam embraced her.
My poor Rosie. But personally, I think you look fine - you and the baby...
She did not answer. Sometimes she wished he would have to give birth to the children.
Meanwhile Frodo followed them with some of their things and sighed. Now he was in Buckland again - near to Liliane.
He wanted to see her again.
Later that day he grabbed Merry and asked: Has... eh... is there any news for me?
Oh, yes... I invited Fatty, Estella and Liliane to my birthday.
He paused and watched his cousins reactions.
What did they say?
They will come. You should have seen her - I mentioned that you would also come and Liliane was so excited, you know...

Yes, she was! Oh, and I talked to Fatty in the meantime... he told me that she is sick.
Sick? No, what does she have? Frodo asked and Merry laughed out loud when he heard the troubled tone in his voice.
Oh, just... shes lovesick...
Frodo crossed his arms before his chest and sceptically raised his eyebrows.
s not funny! What a nasty trick...
t that good news? Merry changed the subject to prevent Frodo from getting angry.
And what did he mean with lovesick? Frodo asked.
Just... you know that yourself. She didnt eat properly and went on his nerves for days whether youd be married, and... she was always waiting for you to come... now that she knows youre here, she might be happy if youd be courageous enough to meet her again!
I will. And this is what you should also do, my dear friend! Frodo said. Merry didnt answer.