The Green Dragon was bursting at the seams tonight.  Everyone was drinking and singing, enjoying the evening fellowship.  But Rosie Cotton couldn't manage a smile.  Something was missing… no, someone was missing.

            "Rosie!  Rose… wake up!"  Tom Cotton snapped his fingers in front of his sister.  "Stop your daydreaming.  You've got a full house!"

            "Sorry, Tom.  What can I get for you?  The usual?"  Tom nodded as he tried to lock eyes with Rosie.

            "So, Rose, why the long face?  You are usually so full of life when you're in here.  And looking around, one can see why."  As Rosie and Tom surveyed the pub, the saw hobbits of all shapes talking, sharing some laughs and stories.  And Ted Sandyman was hopping from one table to the next, heading straight for the bar.

            "Rosie-lass, you're looking as beautiful as me rose bushes this evening!"  Rosie tried not to roll her eyes at the lad as he smiled at her.

            "Why thank you for the compliment, Master Sandyman.  Be careful as you're walking home.  We wouldn't want to lose our best miller!"  But, Ted wasn't leaving yet.

            "So, I see Samwise Gamgee isn't here this evening.  Knowing your evening wouldn't be right without him stammering out a goodbye, I thought I try for you.  Ahem!  'Go-go-goodnight, M-m-miss Rosie!'"  Letting out a booming laugh, Sandyman shuffled towards the door.  Rosie rushed toward him with the intent of bringing her hand hard against his face, but Tom restrained her.

            "Remember, Rose, he is drunk.  Besides, why should his comment bother you?  When have you ever taken special notice of Sam Gamgee?"  Rosie began to cry.  "Rose?  Come here… sit down a minute and collect yourself."

            "That's just it, Tom.  I always take notice of Sam.  In my heart I do.  He comes here often with Master Frodo and I have noticed how much he looks at me.  And of all the lads that stare, Sam is the one who is most welcome to it.  He may have trouble speaking to me, but he has always been kind and gentle with his words.  He has respect for me, unlike some people."  She said these last words and nodded towards Ted Sandyman.

            "OK, so you fancy Sam.  There is absolutely nothing wrong with fancying Samwise.  I support you all the way.  He is a good sort of lad.  But, I still don't understand why you are crying."

            "He didn't come.  And neither did Master Frodo.  They are always here in the evening.  Always.  They never miss."