Fourth chapter: Good news


Frodo was lugging another box down to the place where the party was being prepared. The sun shone from a clearblue sky and there were many people running over the meadow busily. It was pretty crowded. The food was brought and people had to take care that Elanor would not eat some of it already.
Frodo observed the nearby road for arriving people, but those he was waiting for didnt come. Yet in the afternoon someone different arrived. In front of the old wooden cart a proud and tall horse was trotting - and on the cart there was Gandalf sitting.
Frodo exclaimed and put the box down immediately. Then he ran to his old friend and they embraced each other.
s so good to see you! Frodo said and Gandalf nodded smiling.
I think so, too, dear Frodo. Much time has passed and you look as if much happened!
Shrugging Frodo didnt answer, but he smiled and helped Gandalf taking the little box with fireworks. Though it was not a really big birthday party, he did not dare to show up without his fabulous rockets.
And where is Merry, the old vagabond? Ah! Excuse me for a second, Gandalf said and headed over for Merry.
Frodo remained where he was and helped putting the tables together. After that he made a short pause in which he still observed the busy road, but still he caught no glimpse of Liliane.
ll help you, Frodo said and stepped beside Sam who wanted to decorate one of the trees with colorful lampions.
Let me go up there.
Frodo knew Sam did not like heigths, so he climbed up the ladder and Sam handed him the lampions.
For a while he was climbing in the tree trying not to fall, but when he stepped back to the ladder again to get down, he was suddenly aware of a movement on the road and nearly lost his balance when he saw her.
Master Frodo! Be careful! Sam exclaimed and held the ladder which had nearly fallen backwards by Frodos sudden movement.
What are you doing? he asked, but when Frodo didnt answer, he followed his gaze and understood.
s Liliane! he whispered and Frodo nodded slowly. Immediately Sam knew who it was, Frodo had so often spoken of her and how she looked - Sam had to be sure of that. And there was also Estella. Sam turned to Merry who had already noticed her.
Two Hobbits in love. He was very amused.
Come down and say hello to her, Frodo! he demanded and mechanically Frodo did so. His heart was beating fast, he felt as if he would explode the next moment, he was so excited and happy. His knees weakened and he shivered a little. Sam smiled when he saw him like that.
You were right, he said.
Frodo echoed with a toneless voice. He sucked in a sharp breath.
When you said she was beautiful. Indeed she is!
Frodo blushed. He only needed to see her and at once he knew why he had done nothing yet. Facing her it was different than just speaking of doing something.
What are you waiting for? Shell be disappointed if you dont welcome her! Sam insisted. Frodo gaped at him unhappily.
s easy for you to say! You are already married! Youre so merciless.
s waiting...
Frodo did not answer, but approached Fatty, Estella and Liliane. Merry was already with them and chatting a little.
Then she saw him. Frodo was not really sure, but he had the impression that she blushed a little. And she smiled warmly.
, he just said and stopped beside Merry. His cousin paid no attention to him, he was talking to Estella and the only one left was Fatty who just shook his head in disbelief.
m glad to see you! Our last meeting is so long ago, Liliane said and took a step forward.
Yes... ehm... you look beautiful, Frodo murmured and smiled shyly. They went all to the tables and sat down, waiting for all the other guests to arrive and the preparations were just done in time and the party could begin.
Gandalf was sitting on a chair under one of the surrounding trees, smoking a pipe, until it was time for dinner. He observed the little group attentively. That Merry had lost his heart was no news for him, but he regarded Frodo very closely and realized what changes had happened to him. It was the way he looked at Liliane, Gandalf knew at once that there were intense feelings brought up - and she could not hide that she felt the same.
The wizard sighed. This was good, it was fantastic indeed, but he also remembered the past and knew it would not be easy.
The music began to play when Pippin had given a sign and Merrys parents were the first ones to stand up and dance, but Merry followed them immediately by asking Estella and Pippin grinned broadly. He was curious to see what would come next, but he also had a plan.
He sat down facing Frodo, right beside Liliane, and first talked with them for some minutes, but when the next dance began, he kicked Frodo in the shin and looked at Liliane, but she didnt notice.
Frodo looked at him helplessly, but Pippin showed no mercy and kicked him again below the desk, unnoticed by others, and smiled innocently.
Their gazes followed Rosie and Sam who had also risen and disappeared between the dancing couples.
Then Frodo stood up, went to Liliane on the other side of the table and took a deep breath before he asked: Would you like to dance with me?
She had looked at him full of expectations and smiled at once.
Of course Id like to!
She took his hand and when Sam saw the two of them next to him and Rosie, he nearly lost control over his feet in surprise.
Frodo felt her warm hands in his as he laid his arm around her. She came closer and her face had brightened up, so it seemed. Frodo bit his lip in happiness, he could hardly stand the desire to embrace her tightly and closed his eyes when he dreamt of kissing her, but he still didnt dare to.
He wished this moment would never end, but it did so when suddenly the music stopped playing and silence spread.
In the center of the party field Merry stood facing Estella, then he knelt down and took her hand.
Your stunning beauty had made me forget how to speak. But there is one question that has to be asked and now I found some words to say... Im asking you: Will you be my wife, Estella?
She smiled at once and first didnt answer, but then she made him rise again and nodded.
Yes, Merry, with all my heart! she said with her voice quavering and embraced him. The party guests applauded and cheered loudly. Frodo could not help but smile.

When Frodo got up the next morning, he heard Rosie and Elanor outside in the garden, they seemed to be playing together. Their cheerful laughter came to his ears, but it was not difficult to guess where Sam was.
He had drunken very much beer the night before and Frodo was sure that he was lying in bed, feeling miserably.
Merry didnt feel better when Frodo entered his room to see him.
Good morning, he said.
You call that good? Oh... Im so... what is it?
I... I need to see her. Please, tell me how to find the house!
Merry described him the way and after a short breakfast Frodo made his way to the place where Liliane, Fatty and Estella lived.
His excitement grew. He did not know how he had suddenly found the courage to do that, but he would not turn now. He would walk on and see her. He had to.
But his fear grew that something unexpected could destroy everything.
Frodo would like to be honest and tell her everything, she was so happy and friendly, open-hearted and... he loved that.
Very soon he found himself in front of their door and he knocked shyly. It was Fatty who opened him.
Frodo! Well, thats a surprise! Come in!
Frodo took a deep breath and entered the house. He and Fatty didnt go far, Liliane had heard them and came towards them.
Good morning! Its wonderful to see you here! How are you? she asked and did not take her eyes off him.
Fine... how are you?
They began to talk and when she suggested to take a walk, they did so. They were roaming about the fields and felt the warm wind in their hair, then sat down a little while later and Frodo told her of Elanor and his life with Sams family again.
Just imagine, they will have a second child soon!
He smiled awkwardly. Then she suddenly raised her hand and laid it on his which made him start unwillingly.
I... I didnt mean to... Liliane began and doubts were shown in her eyes. Frodo quickly shook his head and said: s not your fault.
Then he scrambled to his feet in a hurry and ran down the hill.
He had feared this to happen. He couldnt do it to her. She didnt deserve it!
Faster he ran, approaching a small forest and when he reached it, he stopped at once, leaned on a tree and still tried to fight back the tears, but pain tore him inside and he broke down.
He was longing so bad to return to her, excuse his reaction, telling her how sorry he felt, but she would get to know what had happened and it wouldnt count anymore that he wanted to spend all the time in the world with her.
The horrible truth... it must not happen. He wanted to be left alone with it, he had to fight against the problems without help. There was no one to bear it like he had to.
He sank to the ground and cowered down. Through tears he saw her running through the meadow, seeking him and suddenly she called: Frodo... what is it? Explain it to me! Please...
He didnt move. He remained sitting where he was, unable to move, for actually he wanted her to come, talk to him, but on the other hand that must not happen!
Painful emptiness took hold of him and he wiped away the tears, but the sadness remained.
It was impossible. But now it was too late. He could never spend only one minute with her again without being obliged to tell her about the truth.
Sadly he stared to the ground and didnt notice her approaching, since she had seen him sitting there. Hesitatingly she stopped some meters away and waited. Finally he was aware of her and raised his head.
You must take me as mad, dont you? he murmured, but she only shook her head and came towards him, sat down in front of him and said: No, Frodo. I cant explain it, but I surely know that youre not mad.
She perceived the tears in his face and he was unable to hide his sadness, but suddenly he had the feeling that it couldnt be the worst thing to tell her what he thought.
s so much terrifying, do you understand? I dont want you to be confronted with...
He could not say it.
I dont care, Frodo. I know one thing for sure: Im sure that you really mean something to me. Very much indeed. Something has happened of which I thought it would never happen again, but thats the fact.
He shook his head in disbelief, but then embraced her at once. He knew he didnt want anything more than that and it was incredible that she had said it.
She returned the embrace and finally their eyes met.
I think I understand you, Frodo. I just want to understand you.
Then she smiled before he took her hand then. It was right.
re so... I mean, I dreamt of just sitting here with you like that, since there really something happened. But Ive been so afraid that... Frodo trailed off. He was surprised how easily he could speak then, but in her presence he could do so.
Nothing will make me feel frightened, Frodo. Its over, its long ago and you cant change it anymore, but it cant come between us if we dont want to. Please, just never run away like that again!
He was deeply moved and rose. He felt the warmth in his heart fighting back the shadows of his remembrance and then he said: ll never do that again. Id just like to stay with you forever! Now there is something that has never been there before, and...
What was it actually? He could not think anymore. He only took her hand and they made their way back through the meadows, taken by a feeling of happiness.
Then at once Frodo stopped and took her hands, looked at her and said: Liliane, you cant imagine how much it means to me to be with you. I... I experienced so many evil things, but if I had to do it all again to meet you thereafter, I would do so. I love you more than words can say. But... I spent all my life alone and maybe it will be difficult with me sometimes...
Liliane came closer and silenced him with a tender kiss.
That doesnt matter, she then said. My life brightened up when I met you. I will never leave you again, Frodo Baggins. I love you with all my heart.
They embraced each other lovingly and tightly, she rested her head on his shoulder and a feeling arose in him that he had never known before.
He felt responsible for someone in a very special way. It was his most urgent wish to care for her, to always be with her and make her happy.
He would do everything for her. To feel her warmth and her closeness was the most wonderful thing in the world for him.
re so beautiful with a smile on your face, Frodo said and kissed her forehead. She sighed.
ve been dreaming for that for a long time, she replied and listened to his heart beating. re so wonderful.
When Frodo heard her speaking that way, he was astonished at first because he remembered that people had always found him strange. But still he did not know how she would ever find out about his past. She had to know. She should know. But he was unable to tell her.
s return to Brandy Hall, he said, and hand in hand they walked down the road and approached the mansion.
In the garden there were Sam and Elanor playing and laughing loudly. Also, and not to their surprise, Merry and Estella were sitting on a bench together. But still Rosie was missing.
When they entered the garden, Frodo first asked Sam where his wife was and Sam gaped at him in wonder when he saw Liliane next to him.
Frodo had laid his arm around her shoulders and it was out of the question what that meant.
Sam smiled. He had done it. He had managed to speak.
Rosie is not feeling fine. We should leave tomorrow. But what about you, Master Frodo? You will not come with us right now, will you?
No, Sam. But I will follow soon. And - as you maybe already guessed - not alone.
Meanwhile also Merry and Estella were aware of their friends in love.
t that wonderful? Estella said.
Excuse me - what did you say?
Oh, I... I just... thought of not having seen her that happy for a long time. You know, since Carls death she has changed. And now I see her happy the way she was before. She loves him. And I love you.
Merry smiled.
He spent all his life alone. Nobody reckoned him to find someone that he loved. And she also loves him, yes, I can see that. I am so happy. After all that hes been through he deserves it. A little peace and calm.
In the meantime also the others were talking.
Who are you? little Elanor asked and she behaved shyly towards Liliane who knelt down and reached out her hand for the girl.
She answered: My name is Liliane. And what is yours?
m Ellie. Do you like my Uncle Frodo?
, Liliane answered. Very much indeed. He told me that youd have a little sibling soon. Are you happy?
m happy because I can play with him or her, but I would like it better if it was a girl and not a boy. Boys are cheeky.
Oh, not all boys. Maybe you will have a very nice little brother.
Both Frodo and Sam looked at Liliane talking to Elanor and Sam knew she was right for Frodo.
She would lead him the way to a normal life.
Sam rose and stepped beside Frodo. Then he said: I can tell her if you want me to. That would be not such a big problem for me and I guess youd like her to know, wouldnt you? You look so wonderful together. Im so glad youre happy now.
Yes, Sam, indeed. But first I will try myself and hope I will be able to tell her. Thank you so much! But would you please excuse us now? Im so hungry...
Oh! Just go to the kitchen. There should be some things left from lunch.
So Frodo and Liliane went inisde together and ate a little. Soon there was Rosie coming down the stairs who had been lying in bed and she did not look very good. She was pale.
Oh, its you! Youre back. Its good to see you!
How are you feeling, Rosie? Frodo asked and she shrugged.
I already felt better and worse. Im looking for Sam. Is he still outside?
Frodo nodded. But maybe hed been eaten alive by the little monster. I dont know!
Yes, maybe, she replied laughing.
Frodo and Liliane spent the whole day together, but in the evening Estella and Liliane left to go home.
But before, Estella had come and said: May I talk to you, Frodo? Just for a couple of minutes!
And he rose, left Liliane who was agreeing to that. She went outside to Merry and they talked a little.
Inside in the living-room Estella and Frodo sat down and she said: re the one to give Liliane her life back. She had none until you came. Shed been lonely since Carls death and sometimes miserable. Thats now one and half a year ago and you cant imagine how hard a life can be for so young a widow. People had spoken in a very mean and nasty way about her husbands death. They even doubted that he was dead and said he might have run away for no obvious reason.
She was alone. There were only Fatty and I, nobody else. And she had accepted this kind of life. People were staring at her when she was out on the streets. That hurt her. She didnt speak of it, never. But both Fatty and I knew about that. Maybe you should know that shes very afraid of thunderstorms because this was when Carl died. She needs warmth and love and I know that you are the one to give it to her. In reverse she will give the same to you, Frodo Baggins. I just thought it would be quite good if you knew about that. And never miss the chance to talk to her. Trust is so important.
Frodo nodded. He was so thankful for her honest words. Yes, he would talk to Liliane. He wanted to spend all his life with her.
Both Merry and Frodo sat down in the kitchen when Estella and Liliane had left. Sam and his family were already sitting at the table, waiting to begin. Dinner was served and Merry said to Frodo: Now cousins have met... I didnt reckon youd speak that soon.
Frodo was startled. What was he talking about?
I havent really spoken yet. Not the way you did. But I will. I will soon ask her to be my wife.
Uncle Frodo will marry! Elanor exclaimed. Her father stroked her head.
Do you like her? he asked and Ellie smiled.
Yes! I will have a new aunt.
This statement made Frodo laugh. But he was glad indeed that all met his plans with sympathy. But everyone of them was happy to see Frodo with this joyful smile on his face.
It was something so very new.
When Sam, Rosie and Elanor left the next morning, Sam and Frodo had a short conversation in front of the door before the departure.
What will you be doing now? asked Sam. Frodo shrugged at first, but then said: I will first stay here to spend some time with Liliane. I will have to wait for the right time to speak and - I hope we will both come to Bag End soon.
Take your time, Master Frodo. But I know she is right for you.
They embraced and when the family was gone, Frodo and Merry went together to see Estella and Liliane.
Walking hand in hand, Liliane and Frodo made their way down to a little forest and laid down in the grass. She rested her head on his belly and sighed.
What does this cloud look like? Frodo asked.
s like a castle in the sky... for my dreams, Liliane answered.
What do you see in it?
Oh, I... I just saw head, feet and wool - a sheep!
No flower?
No. This is how a flower looks! he said, picked a daisy and put it in her hair.
Liliane raised her head, turned and without a warning she began to tickle him.
No! What are you doing? he screamed and burst out in laughter.
She showed no mercy and continued.
Liliane! Youre killing me!
But then he had and idea and pulled her so close that she couldnt move anymore.
They felt the gentle wind in their hair, the warm sun on their skin and Frodo wished this moment would never end.
He felt overwhelmed by happiness, stroked her cheek and kissed her tenderly.
He had never been that close to someone before. It was new and wonderful to him. He had trust to her. Feelings arose in him that he had never felt before, feelings and wishes.
But she was also emotionally very close to him. She had lost her husband to the river which had been as hard for her as the loss of his parents had been for Frodo.
They knew how the other one felt about that.
Her mother had died long before, but since her fathers death some years ago, she had also lived a calm life apart from what most people did. There were only few people that she was in touch with, but unlike Frodo, she had some practical skills which were good for earning money.
She was good at sewing, her husband had hunted, they had always worked for living.
Frodo didnt know how he was to explain that there was no need to do so anymore. Probably Liliane didnt know about the riches he still had. But there was enough time left to let her know.
He didnt want to speak now, it was too early, he reckoned.
They were lying close to each other and Frodo had laid his arm around her, but then she suddenly took his right hand carefully. This time he didnt react panically. He just turned his head to her and said: It was the Ring.
The Ring?
Yes, Bilbos Ring... he had only known it as an instrument of invisibility, but he gave it to me as his heir. And this is why it was my task to destroy it. It was the most evil thing that Middle-earth has ever seen. I did it.. for the freedom and safety of the Shire, I had nothing to lose, except for my life and in the end I was sure that I would lose my life. Its only because of Gandalf that Sam and I are still here. He saved us.
Sam was with you?
He was... I didnt want him to, but he didnt leave me. We would have sacrificed our lives for the quest. So this is but a small scar left - although there are still more.
He told her about having been stabbed at Weathertop and both they sat upright. While listening to his words, Liliane noticed that his voice began to quaver, he fought hard to go on and she let him.
Your shoulder? she asked. Frodo unbuttoned his shirt a little so that she could see the scar. Liliane raised her hand and laid it on the wound.
It was the first time in years that Frodo felt warmth there.
And she was aware of his Elvish gemstone, the white gem he had been given by Arwen.
s a gift of the Queen of Gondor, Arwen, daughter to Elrond Halfelven. She wedded Aragorn King Elessar of Gondor whom we got to know as Strider here in Bree, Frodo explained and told her some more things of the quest.
Liliane did not dare to ask what exactly had happened to make Frodo lose his finger, but he told her freely.
Finally I could not resist this voice of evil any longer. It was always in my head. It was calling for me... I even attacked Sam who had taken the Ring when he had believed I was dead - after he had beaten Shelob.
He closed his eyes and suddenly began to tremble. To remember the horrific spider was like a living nightmare for him, but he forced himself to speak.
You dont need to... Liliane began, but he interrupted her.
I will try to.
She took him in her arms and was terrified even from listening what he tried to tell her about Shelob.
And then the orcs had taken me captive... Sam still had the Ring which I later on claimed for me, this is why I have this scar. Oh, just to think of the orcs teeth and claws...
Suddenly he held his breath, let his head sink and nearly winced when he thought of their grim faces and the whip they had. He felt the tears in his eyes and did not fight them back.
Liliane pulled him closer when she felt him sobbing.
Stop it, Frodo, dont torment yourself that way! she whispered and stroked his head. He clasped her and found so much comfort in her closeness.
But its my duty to tell you, you should know... he replied, but didnt look at her.
Not if it hurts you that way. Its not worth it!
Frodo felt awful. No matter how hard he tried to pull himself together, he did not manage to tell her. But he did not want any secrets.
Ask Sam, he will tell you, but you should know, he said and then met her gaze. Liliane kissed his wet cheek.
I will ask him if youd like me to. But now forget about that. I cant stand to see you that sad.

When Frodo wanted to see her the next day, it was raining heavily. Merry stayed at Brandy Hall since Estella had returned to her parents for some days, but Frodo took his coat and stepped outside. Walking through the grey rain, he smiled at the thought of what he did for her. He would get ill from that, but he didnt care.
He had to see her.
she exclaimed when he stood in front of the door.
re mad. You didnt need to come!
Oh, I can leave again if you want me to...
Hastily she grabbed his hand and pulled him inside.
No... you wont. Youre mine!
He had wanted to embrace her, but he was so wet that he didnt dare to touch her. She had already noticed herself, so she went and got some clothing from Fatty - but Frodo was much too thin for the breeches and the shirt. When Fatty appeared and saw him like that, he burst out in laughter and held his belly.
s good, you starving wretch in my... he... he stammered and leaned against the wall.
Leave him, Liliane said and made Frodo sit down in front of the warm stove. His wet curls hung in strands down his forehead and he still felt uncomfortable for some time, but soon he was not wet anymore and sat down with Liliane in the living-room.
They spent the whole day talking and finally he got to know the house where she lived in. If she would leave it?
When would he ask her?
He did not know, but still she did not have the courage. There was no need to wait, he did not have to fear anything, but he didnt think it was right yet.
In the evening when all his clothes had dried again, he wanted to leave, but the rain had increased and the weather had grown to a real storm.
t go, Frodo. Stay here. Its too dangerous! Liliane pleaded and pointed outside at the bending trees. They could even see things flying through the air, taken by the strong wind, and Frodo thought of Merry who would be worried if he didnt come soon - but when he turned to Liliane and saw fear in her eyes, he suddenly remembered what it was to make her beg him that way.
She had once lost someone beloved in a thunderstorm like that.
And a thunderstorm it was. It did not take long until bright light was flashing and the thunder was roaring loudly. The clouds were torn by the flashs and still the rain was pouring from the sky. It had grown to a thick darkness outside, but in the house they were not really touched by that.
Frodo stayed overnight. He just couldnt leave her, he knew that. And actually he didnt even want to.
Fatty lent him a pyjama of his and still Frodo looked hilarious in it. Fatty was such a round-grown Hobbit - and Frodo was the contrary.
He would sleep in Fattys room. This was a convenience to the curious Hobbit who tried to ask Frodo about his feelings for Liliane, but Frodo didnt want to be asked.
Good choice, my friend! I never reckoned you to fall in love, but it was so obvious youd choose such a wonderful person like Liliane.
Mh... shes lovely, Frodo replied and turned under the sheet. He yawned.
Fatty was not pleased with that, but he gave up. Frodo didnt want to speak, so he left him.
Soon he felt very sleepy. He heard Fatty snoring already and listened to the raging thunder and the falling rain outside. But then he heard that the door was quietly opened and steps entered the room. At first he wasnt even sure whether he was dreaming or awake, but when carefully his blanket was lifted up and he felt cold in his back, he opened his eyes again.
Liliane had tried not to disturb him when she laid down beside him, but immediately Frodo took care she had enough space in the bed which actually was too small for two.
I didnt mean to... she began, but he silenced her with a gesture and noticed the tears on her cheeks.
Oh, dont cry, dear... dont be afraid. Im with you.
She didnt need to explain her fear. Frodo knew she was terrified by the storm and pulled her close to comfort her.
t leave me, Frodo.
I will never leave you. I love you. And I will protect you. Is it better now?
In silence she nodded. Frodo laid his arms around her after she had been wholly covered by the warming sheet.
They didnt need more space. Frodo wiped away her tears and assured her that he was near. Soon she calmed down again.
Before he had noticed, Liliane had fallen asleep. Frodo smiled and listened to her regular breathing.
He never wanted to be without that again.

When he awoke the next morning, Frodo felt the fresh breeze of the morning on his face. Fatty had already gotten up and opened the window, the bright sunlight flooded the room and he heard the birds singing outside.
Liliane was still asleep. Carefully he put a strand of her dark curls aside which tickled his nose. He couldnt feel his arm anymore which she was lying on, but he didnt move in order not to wake her up.
He just enjoyed lying that way. He lost in dreams when he looked at her full of love, he wanted to kiss her, but he did not do so. She should sleep.
The next moment she turned and his arm lay free. Quickly he pulled it away and then had an idea.
He took the Elvish gemstone on its necklace, opened it and when he wanted to close it around her neck, Liliane woke up and laid her hand on his.
What are you doing? she asked and took the gem.
No, you... the Queens present... Frodo!
Frodo smiled. s for you. Please keep it as a gift.
s much too precious, I can
I would be happy if you kept it.
She fell silent and gaped at him wordlessly. Frodo just shrugged.
s not as precious to me as you are. Arwen gave it to me that it was a help in dark hours - but there will be none anymore while being with you.

She gave him a loving kiss and they still remained in bed for a while. There was no need to hurry.
They had no need to hurry the next two weeks. This was how long Frodo stayed in Buckland and he spent every day with Liliane. His feeling grew that he would love to marry. He had known from the beginning, but now he decided to speak. He would do it.
So one day in bright sunshine he took her, as it was part of the customs in the Shire, out to the forest and on a little clearing they stood when he took her hands and first just looked at her for some time.
She kept silence and waited for him to say something which he finally did.
It had always been out of question for me... Liliane, theres still something missing to make it all perfect.
But theres nothing wrong? Liliane asked immediately which made Frodo laugh.
No! No, its all fine. But still theres a decision to be made, a decision for the future.
Liliane had an idea of what he was talking about, but first he took a deep breath and then continued: Will you be my wife, Liliane?
Her heart stopped beating for a second, then she just embraced him and closed her eyes. She was deeply moved.
Yes, Frodo, I would be the happiest... I love you! She did not know what to say, but what then followed surprised her.
Please stay with me forever, Liliane, for I love you and I would do everything for you. I never want to be without you again.
I will never leave you, Frodo, and you will never doubt about my love, since it would be the worst for me to be without you!
They kissed each other tenderly and knew that, according to the customs of their people, they were married now.
They needed no party and did not tell anyone - it was just common to give a promise of love and when they returned to their friends, it was to be seen on their faces. Nobody asked, all knew of what had happened.



Authors Note: According to Christopher Tolkiens work The History of Middle-earth in which he collected many of his fathers numerous texts concerning Middle-earth, something is to be found in Book 6 The Return of the Shadow which deals with marriage in the Shire. There are several versions of the first chapter of LOTR and in one of these versions Bilbo marries and becomes a father. In the annotations of that text there is some information given about the Hobbits customs of marriage. Tolkien described it as an unspectacular event in which the couple for a while and returns as married.
This is the foundation of my interpretation of this marriage.