It was an amazing change. Sending a girl away, and when you come back for
her, she is no longer that girl you knew and loved. She became a rose
blossom: beautiful, proper, and above all, grown. That rose blossom stood
outside of her border's home with a wide brimmed hat and a dress; form
fitted and more mature compared to the starter dresses that younger girls
wore. She looked down the road, holding down her hat slightly, as she
waited for her ride. "Where is he?"
Bilbo Baggins came along the road into Michel Delving slowly, enjoying the fall colored trees along the path. He was humming a traveling song he wrote himself. Using the cart he borrowed from Tom Cotton, he arrived at the Windlefoot's house where Kalista Gamgee had been staying for the summer. She was outside waiting with her bags eagerly. He immediately noticed her new dress. Not something he would ever picture her wearing, but she fit in it nicely. He pulled up and waved to her happily.
"I am so sorry your parents are not here to pick you up Kallie dear. They had to go out of town and I volunteered to come pick you up. Let's say we get going. I should like to get back to Hobbiton as soon as possible." Bilbo smiled warmly as he got out of the cart to help with her bags.
Kalista smiled at the older hobbit, "hullo, Bilbo!" she smiled warmly when Bilbo came out to help her with her bags. He grabbed some bags and put them into the cart. Once the bags were stored on the cart, Bilbo helped Kalista jump in.
"I'm so happy to see you again, I was starting to forget what you looked like." She said jokingly. "How is everyone?"
"Well, let's see." Bilbo then laughed and then thoughtfully sighed. "Your Brother Samwise is getting to be quite a gardener! He is taking after the gaffer with that trait." He chuckled.
"That was a guessable one; after two sons gave up on gardening, the gaffer was sure Sam would go in the line." Kalista laughed a little. "And my mother and sisters?"
"Belle has been doing a lot of baking!" Bilbo laughed. "I think she missed you and needed something to occupy her. Frodo and I have gained many pounds thanks to her." He stated and then thought about the sisters. "And the girls are well, from what I can gather. You know they never visit me too much. But I suspect they are doing well."
"Yes well, I'll have to change that soon, they would love you if they got passed all those rumors and stories about you." She laughed. "Oh, and now that you have mentioned him. What of Frodo?"
"Frodo is doing fine!" Bilbo smiled proudly. "He had become a book worm since you left. Taking after me I suppose, which is a very interesting thought." As the cart left Michel Delving, Bilbo took a deep breath of fresh air. "Let's see...He has been spending the summer with his cousin Merry, who was up here a while. He misses you though, I can tell."
Kalista smiled thoughtfully, remembering all the fun she has had with Frodo. She hated leaving him for the summer. The first few weeks were the hardest of her life and without him, she wanted to break down and cry. But luckily all worked out. And she was sure that the time apart would only make their friendship stronger. "And I him; there's so much I have to tell him."
"Oh Really?" Bilbo asked curiously. "About what? Tell me about your summer? Were the families really as 'hoity toity' as you once called them?" Bilbo chuckled.
Kalista blushed and shook her head. "Not in the slightest! And I am sorry for saying that." She said sincerely. "Actually, I made many friends. Star Bungo, for one: she was wonderful! I learned so much from her." Star was one of the older and wealthier of the Michel Delving Hobbits. She was wise on many things such as growing herbs, money and men.
"Ah, I have not talked to old Star in ages." Bilbo grinned. He then looked down at Kalista's smile. "I am sure she taught you many things..." He trailed off, letting the subject drop. "And I trust the other girls treated you well? I know some of the more rich society girls can be a little over bearing towards the new girls to come in. How did you fair?"
"Well..." she laughed. "At the beginning, I mostly scared them all into liking me. But eventually, I made some real friends and some enemies as well. I suppose not everyone can get along with every body else." Kalista smiled. "They invited me to come back next year, but I haven't decided yet."
"That sounds splendid!" Bilbo commented. "I know all too well that it is like with making new friends and all of that. I am so glad it worked out with you." He then stated. A while later, Bilbo finally came to the road into Hobbiton and towards the Hill.
The younger children were playing running and hiding games and the adults were attending their usual businesses. Bilbo smiled and waved to a few people and continued on. He then looked over to Kalista. "Since your parents are not home, you can come stay at Bag end for dinner. I am sure you will want to see Frodo Immediately. I have to go drive this cart back to the Cottons." He instructed as they road up the Hill towards Bag End.
"It wouldn't be to much trouble, right?" She asked, a little worriedly. She didn't want to inconvenience them in anyway.
"When have you ever been any trouble Kallie?" Bilbo laughed.
"Do I need to answer that?" She smiled widely with big impressions in her cheeks.
Bilbo stopped the cart and then got out to help Kalista get her bags. "No, you don't have to answer." He chuckled. Once everything was taken care of, he got back into the cart. "Will you be able to get these things inside yourself? The door is open; make yourself at home."
"Yes, I'll be fine. Thank you Bilbo." Kalista smiled, tucking some bags under each arm. She said goodbye to Bilbo and started her way up the steps to Bag End.
As Kalista was making her way up the door, Frodo came out. He was slightly taller than he had been and his curly hair was thick and raven. Though he had gained a little wait, he was still considerably thin for a Hobbit. He was holding a pipe to his lips, something he had never done before but had since took up the habit over the summer. He stopped suddenly when he saw Kalista coming up the walk. He did not notice her at first though, especially in the hat and new dress. He took the pipe out of his mouth and smiled. His bright sapphire eyes twinkled in the sun with an excitement, joy, and anticipation. Not knowing what to say to his old friend, he just folded his arms together and stood, waiting for her to notice him first.
Kalista looked up and when she saw Frodo, she dropped the bags she was carrying, took off her hat and skipped up the stairs to hug him tight. "Frodo! I've missed you so much!" She exclaimed.
Frodo let out a hearty laughed and wrapped his arms tightly around Kalista. He resisted the urge to pick her up and swing her around and instead just kissed her lightly on the cheek. "I have missed you too!" He returned and then pulled away from her to get a closer look. "You look wonderful!"
"Well you're not too shabby yourself. I see someone finally made you eat something, or so I was told." She playfully tapped on his stomach.
Frodo blushed at the comment and then looked down at his stomach. So he had gained a little weight over the summer, he mostly had stayed home without too much exercise and Belle Gamgee insisted on feeding him and Bilbo at least once a week, "it's all your mothers fault I tell you."
Kalista laughed, picked up her bags again and Frodo took two of them and helped her inside Bag End. Looking around, Kalista smiled at the homeliness of the smial. She had enjoyed hearing the rumors from Michel Delving about Frodo and Bilbo and how they all thought everything in Bag End was lined with gold and was a terribly cold and stuffy place. In reality, though much of the furniture was made of expensive materials, there was no gold about, and there never was. And the hole was warm, cozy and well lived in. She loved Bag End and was happy to return to it.
Upon coming into Bag End, Frodo placed the two bags he had carried by the door and then took Kalista's hat and hung it on a rack on the sidewall. "Can I get you anything?" He then asked.
"No, I'm fine." Kalista smiled as she looked around. "I didn't realize how much I missed this place."
Frodo smiled and took a seat on the leather chair that sat by the fireplace. "I am sure. It has been quiet without you, I must say. Though, Samwise and Meridoc help in that area."
"Yes well, it will probably be quiet for a while now. I've settled down a bit." Kalista returned with a smile. It was true: since being placed in the boarding home for the summer in Michel Delving, the ideas of being lady- like and proper were forced into her mind. She had learned to behave like a lady and now she was no longer as 'wild' as some of the adults would sometimes label her.
There was a silence between the two suddenly. Frodo sat on his chair, tapping his fingers on his leg. The clock on the mantle ticked away, counting the seconds in a perfect and cold rhythm. After a few moments, Frodo finally stood up and made his way into the kitchen. "Are you sure you do not want any tea?"
Kalista listened as Frodo walked into the kitchen and the sound of pots rattled from the other room. She decided to go make sure he did not need any help. Besides, she had spent the entire summer away from Frodo; she did not wish to be away any longer. "Don't tell me you became a food pusher too?" She called from down the hall before appearing around the corner.
Frodo was kneeling down, searching for something in a lower cupboard and when he pulled out the teapot, he stood back up and looked at Kalista. He then looked at the pot in his hand and blushed. "I am, aren't I?" Letting out a shy grin, he filled the pot with water and hung it on the stove to heat.
"So, will you tell me how your time in Michel Delving went? Or will I have to go snooping?" He chuckled teasingly.
"Well, the first day I got there, I found I was not the only one to be attending this school." She started with a sigh as she sat down at the table. "They lined us all up and assigned us to our rooms. I was put in a room with two other girls. They were both really shy but nice. Rosebud and Violet Banks, they are two sisters from Needlehole. They are very interesting girls once they began to talk to me. Anyway, they made us each stand up separate and they called off everything they would have to correct about us." Kalista laughed a little, She was one of the worst students there. "Posture, hair grooming, clothes, speech, etiquette..." The list went on but she wished not to bore Frodo with all the detail of her trip. "That's basically what we did for the first month; fixed anything that seemed 'off' as they put it. After that, everything was party after party. I'm surprised I didn't gain fifty pounds myself from all the rich food."
"Sounds interesting." Said Frodo as he brought over some sugar and honey to the table. He then walked over to the garden window and opened it slightly to let some air into the kitchen. The smell of roses filled the room then, bathing the kitchen with their sweet fragrance.
"But I am glad things improved." Frodo then added as he came over to the table and sat down opposite Kalista. "But I still missed you terribly."
Kalista smiled politely at the comment, she missed him just as much. Silence filled the room once again; the only noise was the boiling water coming from the stove. Frodo then stood up and went to prepare the tea.
"Maybe I'll take you up on that offer of tea." Kalista smiled.
Frodo nodded and set two places at the kitchen table and then brought the kettle over, pouring some water into Kalista's cup. He then poured some in his own and then fixed the tea with the sugar and honey.
Kalista stirred her tea a little and took a sip of it. She lowered her gaze to the teacup, watching the liquid swirl in the mug. Kalista did not know how long there had been silence between the two as they sat. Never before had sitting with Frodo seemed so awkward. Something had definitely changed and Kalista did not like that at all.
"Oh, I almost forgot!" she put her teacup down and walked over to her bags, "which one did I put it in." she thought out loud, starting to dig through some of the bags. Once she found the small package, she smiled, "ah ha, here it is." he smiled, kicking the bags back into their pile. She walked back into the kitchen; "I forgot, I got this for you." she smiled.
Frodo smiled politely and opened it curiously. When the gift was revealed, Frodo smiled and picked up a small chain. It was a gold pocket watch. "This is lovely." He smiled. "Where did you get this? And why? You know I have two others." He laughed and pulled Kalista into a tight hug.
She gasped for air and laughed a little, she knew he had 2 others, but still, "well, they took us on a shopping day and one of the older ladies gave me some money, since I had none. She told me to get something for myself, but I say this watch and it made me think of you." she smiled, "look, it even has your name on it." she smiled turning it over in his hand. She turned it back over and hit the button to open it, showing him the opal face and leaf engraving on the inside.
Frodo saw the engraving and smiled. "Oh, just lovely. Thank you so much." He grinned and used his shirtsleeve to polish the gold a little. "I think it is my favorite one now." He laughed.
Kalista giggled, "Well, I'm glad you liked it as much as I did." she handed him the black velvet pouch it came in.
The two went and sat back at the table and the silence resumed. Once Kalista was a bout to say something, she would stop and re think her words, never actually getting any words out.
Blowing on her tea to cool it, she looked back up to Frodo. He was sitting with his head down, staring at the teacup quietly. Kalista did not realize she was staring, but could not help but study the hobbit before her. His face shape had become more angular, mainly because the round cheeks that came with childhood had disappeared, reviling a strong chin and high cheekbones. His skin had grown a little paler, a sign of less outdoor activity, but he was always rather pale for a hobbit. She then noticed his eyes; they seemed older, not much, just with a little glint of some experience. Yet they were still clear, bright, and full of youth. The color glistened like the morning dew, a deep blue with a fleck of green and gold every now and then. She looked away then, but couldn't keep herself from looking back. His eyes were so entrancing to her. She never really had noticed them before.
Kalista finally snapped out of her trance and looked up at Frodo, fully smiling. "So, did anything interesting happen while I was gone that I should know about?"
Frodo looked up to Kalista and thought for a moment. "Nothing too interesting that I can think of. I did have the chance to see my cousins, Meridoc and Peregrin over the summer. That was fun because I had not been up to Buckland or the Great Smial for a while."
"I'm sure it was." Kalista replied as she sipped her tea.
Frodo nodded and took a sip of his tea. "And what about you. I saw and awful large amount of bags, did you have than many when you left?"
Kalista laughed and shook her head. "I did a lot of shopping in Michel Delving, thanks to Bilbo's generosity. I found some lovely dresses I could not resist buying."
"Well, if they are as pretty as the one you are wearing, I can't wait to see them," Frodo said as he stuck his tongue out playfully.
Kalista smiled, "well, I'll show them to you now then." she said excitedly. Kalista then walked into the common room and Frodo joined her, taking a seat on his leather chair as Kalista walked over to her bags. She hadn't worn any of them but once, when making sure they fit at the dress shop.
The reason she had been so excited over all of the clothing was mainly because they were all made for her, no hand-me-downs from her older sisters or one of the women from town. She went over to one of the suitcases and opened it, reveling layers upon layers of beautiful and interesting fabrics and patterns. She sat down on her knees and started to pull out some dresses, "Oh! This one I love." she said, holding up a beautiful mauve, blue and goldenrod party dress. The piping on the front was of a sideways check.
Kalista then pulled out the next dress. It wasn't a normal outfit; the new trend, she had been told. It was a button-up, flesh colored shirt with an olive green skirt and matching petticoat. "They told me to use this for a work dress. But I couldn't see how? It's too beautiful," She stated, laying it gingerly next to her and smiling up at Frodo, waiting for his approval.
"Both are very lovely." Frodo smiled as he examined both dresses. "But I think I like that green one the best. It is not so flashy." He chuckled. "You have good taste."
Kalista smiled, pulling out a green dress, "I know, they wanted to add bows but when I saw it on the model and I said 'no' and refused." She smiled, standing up and holding the dress up with one hand and pulling out the skirt with the other.
"Good for you." Frodo laughed. "Bilbo will be so happy to see you wearing them. Though I must say, it is odd seeing you so...thrilled about dresses..." He commented thoughtfully.
Kalista blushed and folded up the dress, "Sorry."
"For what? I think it is nice." He said, smiling. "It is just...well...different, I suppose." Frodo then added.
Kalista smiled politely to Frodo and nodded, "I know; I've changed a lot. But, I'm used to it. You know what? It's actually better, now I won't go getting into fights with men twice my size." She laughed, recalling her brawl with Lotho.
"Yes, that is true." Frodo laughed, thinking the same things she was. "So, let's see, what are some other changes I should know about?" Frodo then asked.
"Nothing you won't find out yourself in time." She smiled, finished folding the dresses, and placed them back into her bag. She then went and sat down across from him on a small stood by the fireplace.
"Well actually, there is something I wanted to tell you about," she smiled a little lightheartedly.
Frodo raised an eyebrow and Kalista's comment, not knowing what she meant. He looked at her with curiosity. "What?"
"Well. I have a beau." she smiled happily.
Frodo was quite surprised now. "Really? That is new..." He stated, not knowing what to say. "Who is he?"
"You know Sancho Millbanks? He said he was an old friend of yours." she smiled.
"Oh, yes, him." Frodo stated as he thought back to his time in Buckland, he and some of his cousins would visit Sancho at his parent's farm. Sancho was an all right Hobbit, though he could be a little air headed at times. Of course, he had no right to say anything against Sancho; he had not seen the hobbit in years.
Kalista raised an eyebrow at Frodo's sudden silence once he trailed off with what he was saying. Clearing her throat, she smiled at Frodo, "What's wrong?"
"Oh, nothing. I was just remembering him." Frodo said with a laugh. "I think it is wonderful news, though it is sudden."
"Yes well, we started out as friends and then we realized how much we had in common. I mean, I know he isn't 'all there' at times, but he really is a sweet hobbit." Kalista smiled as she thought about Sancho.
"That is good," Frodo stated as he stood up and walked over to a bookshelf and picked up a small blue leather bound book. He started thumbing a few pages carelessly. An uneasy silence then fell between Kalista and Frodo.
Kalista let out a sigh as she finished repacking her dresses and was about to say something when she heard a cheerful voice outside. Someone was singing and Kalista smiled as she stood up from the floor. "Bilbo's home."
Frodo looked towards the door and smiled as he heard Bilbo from outside as well. Placing the book back on the shelf, he went to the door and opened it for the older Hobbit. "Welcome Back Bilbo," Frodo greeted pleasantly.
"Hullo, you two!" Bilbo greeted in a huff as he caught his breath. "I am surprised you both are not outside! It is so beautiful today."
"We were just having some tea and catching up with each other," Kalista explained with a bright smile. "Would you like some?" Kalista then asked as she walked into the kitchen to fix a cup for Bilbo.
"Ah! Tea sounds good right now, I am parched!" Bilbo stated as he followed Kalista into the kitchen.
Frodo followed the other two into the kitchen as well and all three enjoyed another cup of tea. Some honey cakes were brought out to munch on as well. The group chatted about little things that had been going on in Hobbiton and Kalista was sure to ask Bilbo all the same questions she asked Frodo to make sure she was getting every detail of news she could.
Eventually, once everything was talked about and tea was finished, Kalista stood to clean up the table. However, Frodo refused to let her clean, she was just coming back from her trip and he did not want her to do any work. However, Kalista insisted on doing the dished for the two so she made Frodo sit down and began the chores.
"So Bilbo," Kalista commented as she picked up the dirty dishes from the table. "Are you still writing your book?"
Bilbo chuckled and his face brightened at the mention of his book. "Indeed, my dear, yes. I write a little everyday and it is coming along nicely."
Kalista smiled and was about to comment when Bilbo cut her off. "Speaking of writing, Frodo; I picked up a letter in Hobbiton. It was addressed to you."
Frodo raised an eyebrow and walked over to Bilbo as the older hobbit pulled the letter out of his coat pocket. It was a small letter with a red seal. Taking it, Frodo opened and smiled. "Ah, it is from Dora Boffin," he commented casually.
"Dora?" Kalista asked with curiosity. She leaned over on the table, leaning on her arms and looked up at Frodo. "How is Miss Boffin?"
"Her and Frodo have been seeing a lot of each other." Bilbo commented with a proud smile. "He hasn't told you?"
Kalista raised an eyebrow at Frodo and grinned playfully, "No, he didn't. Enlighten me."
Frodo turned red and shook his head, "It is nothing; Bilbo is just becoming a little delirious in his old age..." Frodo stated as he leaned against the kitchen wall and folded his arms over his chest.
"Nonsense, I saw you two at Blue-Bell Pettletop's birthday last month. Dora is quite smitten with you." Bilbo chuckled.
Kalista chuckled and smiled at the blushing hobbit, "Really? Smitten with Frodo? I never took him for the ladies' hobbit. Please Bilbo, tell me more," She antagonized. Kalista was enjoying teasing Frodo, she could tell he was uncomfortable talking about Dora but Kalista kept going.
"Oh, please don't encourage him..." Frodo moaned as he covered his face with one of his hands.
"Even at your age, you are so shy Frodo, come now." Bilbo chuckled, obvious to how he was making Frodo feel and Kalista was going along with it nicely.
"I am not shy, I just don't talk about my personal affairs in public." Frodo retorted. "Besides, that was just the one night. I heard Donald Peddlesworth of Little Delving was courting her now. So, you both can relax." Frodo grinned and walked out of the kitchen.
"Since when was I 'public'?" Kalista called teasingly. Frodo left however, ending the conversation. Kalista giggled and looked over to Bilbo with a light smile. "Are they a cute couple, at least?" She finally asked.
Bilbo shook his head and smiled. "I honestly do not know, my dear. I think Frodo likes to be around her because of her looks, but you know Frodo; he likes someone of the same tastes and intellect as he. Dora is a lovely girl but she cannot tell the difference between a dandelion and a sunflower. She lets her money talk."
Kalista nodded and folded her arms in front of her as she went into thought about the situation. So many things have changed. Frodo was attracted to a lass, even if Dora wasn't exactly the right choice for him (In Kalista's opinion), and Kalista had Sancho, and now, she was a lady. It was a bittersweet time now; there would be no more running about like a wild child, but she would find new things to occupy her time. She would start over and she had a feeling things were going to turn out for the best.
Bilbo Baggins came along the road into Michel Delving slowly, enjoying the fall colored trees along the path. He was humming a traveling song he wrote himself. Using the cart he borrowed from Tom Cotton, he arrived at the Windlefoot's house where Kalista Gamgee had been staying for the summer. She was outside waiting with her bags eagerly. He immediately noticed her new dress. Not something he would ever picture her wearing, but she fit in it nicely. He pulled up and waved to her happily.
"I am so sorry your parents are not here to pick you up Kallie dear. They had to go out of town and I volunteered to come pick you up. Let's say we get going. I should like to get back to Hobbiton as soon as possible." Bilbo smiled warmly as he got out of the cart to help with her bags.
Kalista smiled at the older hobbit, "hullo, Bilbo!" she smiled warmly when Bilbo came out to help her with her bags. He grabbed some bags and put them into the cart. Once the bags were stored on the cart, Bilbo helped Kalista jump in.
"I'm so happy to see you again, I was starting to forget what you looked like." She said jokingly. "How is everyone?"
"Well, let's see." Bilbo then laughed and then thoughtfully sighed. "Your Brother Samwise is getting to be quite a gardener! He is taking after the gaffer with that trait." He chuckled.
"That was a guessable one; after two sons gave up on gardening, the gaffer was sure Sam would go in the line." Kalista laughed a little. "And my mother and sisters?"
"Belle has been doing a lot of baking!" Bilbo laughed. "I think she missed you and needed something to occupy her. Frodo and I have gained many pounds thanks to her." He stated and then thought about the sisters. "And the girls are well, from what I can gather. You know they never visit me too much. But I suspect they are doing well."
"Yes well, I'll have to change that soon, they would love you if they got passed all those rumors and stories about you." She laughed. "Oh, and now that you have mentioned him. What of Frodo?"
"Frodo is doing fine!" Bilbo smiled proudly. "He had become a book worm since you left. Taking after me I suppose, which is a very interesting thought." As the cart left Michel Delving, Bilbo took a deep breath of fresh air. "Let's see...He has been spending the summer with his cousin Merry, who was up here a while. He misses you though, I can tell."
Kalista smiled thoughtfully, remembering all the fun she has had with Frodo. She hated leaving him for the summer. The first few weeks were the hardest of her life and without him, she wanted to break down and cry. But luckily all worked out. And she was sure that the time apart would only make their friendship stronger. "And I him; there's so much I have to tell him."
"Oh Really?" Bilbo asked curiously. "About what? Tell me about your summer? Were the families really as 'hoity toity' as you once called them?" Bilbo chuckled.
Kalista blushed and shook her head. "Not in the slightest! And I am sorry for saying that." She said sincerely. "Actually, I made many friends. Star Bungo, for one: she was wonderful! I learned so much from her." Star was one of the older and wealthier of the Michel Delving Hobbits. She was wise on many things such as growing herbs, money and men.
"Ah, I have not talked to old Star in ages." Bilbo grinned. He then looked down at Kalista's smile. "I am sure she taught you many things..." He trailed off, letting the subject drop. "And I trust the other girls treated you well? I know some of the more rich society girls can be a little over bearing towards the new girls to come in. How did you fair?"
"Well..." she laughed. "At the beginning, I mostly scared them all into liking me. But eventually, I made some real friends and some enemies as well. I suppose not everyone can get along with every body else." Kalista smiled. "They invited me to come back next year, but I haven't decided yet."
"That sounds splendid!" Bilbo commented. "I know all too well that it is like with making new friends and all of that. I am so glad it worked out with you." He then stated. A while later, Bilbo finally came to the road into Hobbiton and towards the Hill.
The younger children were playing running and hiding games and the adults were attending their usual businesses. Bilbo smiled and waved to a few people and continued on. He then looked over to Kalista. "Since your parents are not home, you can come stay at Bag end for dinner. I am sure you will want to see Frodo Immediately. I have to go drive this cart back to the Cottons." He instructed as they road up the Hill towards Bag End.
"It wouldn't be to much trouble, right?" She asked, a little worriedly. She didn't want to inconvenience them in anyway.
"When have you ever been any trouble Kallie?" Bilbo laughed.
"Do I need to answer that?" She smiled widely with big impressions in her cheeks.
Bilbo stopped the cart and then got out to help Kalista get her bags. "No, you don't have to answer." He chuckled. Once everything was taken care of, he got back into the cart. "Will you be able to get these things inside yourself? The door is open; make yourself at home."
"Yes, I'll be fine. Thank you Bilbo." Kalista smiled, tucking some bags under each arm. She said goodbye to Bilbo and started her way up the steps to Bag End.
As Kalista was making her way up the door, Frodo came out. He was slightly taller than he had been and his curly hair was thick and raven. Though he had gained a little wait, he was still considerably thin for a Hobbit. He was holding a pipe to his lips, something he had never done before but had since took up the habit over the summer. He stopped suddenly when he saw Kalista coming up the walk. He did not notice her at first though, especially in the hat and new dress. He took the pipe out of his mouth and smiled. His bright sapphire eyes twinkled in the sun with an excitement, joy, and anticipation. Not knowing what to say to his old friend, he just folded his arms together and stood, waiting for her to notice him first.
Kalista looked up and when she saw Frodo, she dropped the bags she was carrying, took off her hat and skipped up the stairs to hug him tight. "Frodo! I've missed you so much!" She exclaimed.
Frodo let out a hearty laughed and wrapped his arms tightly around Kalista. He resisted the urge to pick her up and swing her around and instead just kissed her lightly on the cheek. "I have missed you too!" He returned and then pulled away from her to get a closer look. "You look wonderful!"
"Well you're not too shabby yourself. I see someone finally made you eat something, or so I was told." She playfully tapped on his stomach.
Frodo blushed at the comment and then looked down at his stomach. So he had gained a little weight over the summer, he mostly had stayed home without too much exercise and Belle Gamgee insisted on feeding him and Bilbo at least once a week, "it's all your mothers fault I tell you."
Kalista laughed, picked up her bags again and Frodo took two of them and helped her inside Bag End. Looking around, Kalista smiled at the homeliness of the smial. She had enjoyed hearing the rumors from Michel Delving about Frodo and Bilbo and how they all thought everything in Bag End was lined with gold and was a terribly cold and stuffy place. In reality, though much of the furniture was made of expensive materials, there was no gold about, and there never was. And the hole was warm, cozy and well lived in. She loved Bag End and was happy to return to it.
Upon coming into Bag End, Frodo placed the two bags he had carried by the door and then took Kalista's hat and hung it on a rack on the sidewall. "Can I get you anything?" He then asked.
"No, I'm fine." Kalista smiled as she looked around. "I didn't realize how much I missed this place."
Frodo smiled and took a seat on the leather chair that sat by the fireplace. "I am sure. It has been quiet without you, I must say. Though, Samwise and Meridoc help in that area."
"Yes well, it will probably be quiet for a while now. I've settled down a bit." Kalista returned with a smile. It was true: since being placed in the boarding home for the summer in Michel Delving, the ideas of being lady- like and proper were forced into her mind. She had learned to behave like a lady and now she was no longer as 'wild' as some of the adults would sometimes label her.
There was a silence between the two suddenly. Frodo sat on his chair, tapping his fingers on his leg. The clock on the mantle ticked away, counting the seconds in a perfect and cold rhythm. After a few moments, Frodo finally stood up and made his way into the kitchen. "Are you sure you do not want any tea?"
Kalista listened as Frodo walked into the kitchen and the sound of pots rattled from the other room. She decided to go make sure he did not need any help. Besides, she had spent the entire summer away from Frodo; she did not wish to be away any longer. "Don't tell me you became a food pusher too?" She called from down the hall before appearing around the corner.
Frodo was kneeling down, searching for something in a lower cupboard and when he pulled out the teapot, he stood back up and looked at Kalista. He then looked at the pot in his hand and blushed. "I am, aren't I?" Letting out a shy grin, he filled the pot with water and hung it on the stove to heat.
"So, will you tell me how your time in Michel Delving went? Or will I have to go snooping?" He chuckled teasingly.
"Well, the first day I got there, I found I was not the only one to be attending this school." She started with a sigh as she sat down at the table. "They lined us all up and assigned us to our rooms. I was put in a room with two other girls. They were both really shy but nice. Rosebud and Violet Banks, they are two sisters from Needlehole. They are very interesting girls once they began to talk to me. Anyway, they made us each stand up separate and they called off everything they would have to correct about us." Kalista laughed a little, She was one of the worst students there. "Posture, hair grooming, clothes, speech, etiquette..." The list went on but she wished not to bore Frodo with all the detail of her trip. "That's basically what we did for the first month; fixed anything that seemed 'off' as they put it. After that, everything was party after party. I'm surprised I didn't gain fifty pounds myself from all the rich food."
"Sounds interesting." Said Frodo as he brought over some sugar and honey to the table. He then walked over to the garden window and opened it slightly to let some air into the kitchen. The smell of roses filled the room then, bathing the kitchen with their sweet fragrance.
"But I am glad things improved." Frodo then added as he came over to the table and sat down opposite Kalista. "But I still missed you terribly."
Kalista smiled politely at the comment, she missed him just as much. Silence filled the room once again; the only noise was the boiling water coming from the stove. Frodo then stood up and went to prepare the tea.
"Maybe I'll take you up on that offer of tea." Kalista smiled.
Frodo nodded and set two places at the kitchen table and then brought the kettle over, pouring some water into Kalista's cup. He then poured some in his own and then fixed the tea with the sugar and honey.
Kalista stirred her tea a little and took a sip of it. She lowered her gaze to the teacup, watching the liquid swirl in the mug. Kalista did not know how long there had been silence between the two as they sat. Never before had sitting with Frodo seemed so awkward. Something had definitely changed and Kalista did not like that at all.
"Oh, I almost forgot!" she put her teacup down and walked over to her bags, "which one did I put it in." she thought out loud, starting to dig through some of the bags. Once she found the small package, she smiled, "ah ha, here it is." he smiled, kicking the bags back into their pile. She walked back into the kitchen; "I forgot, I got this for you." she smiled.
Frodo smiled politely and opened it curiously. When the gift was revealed, Frodo smiled and picked up a small chain. It was a gold pocket watch. "This is lovely." He smiled. "Where did you get this? And why? You know I have two others." He laughed and pulled Kalista into a tight hug.
She gasped for air and laughed a little, she knew he had 2 others, but still, "well, they took us on a shopping day and one of the older ladies gave me some money, since I had none. She told me to get something for myself, but I say this watch and it made me think of you." she smiled, "look, it even has your name on it." she smiled turning it over in his hand. She turned it back over and hit the button to open it, showing him the opal face and leaf engraving on the inside.
Frodo saw the engraving and smiled. "Oh, just lovely. Thank you so much." He grinned and used his shirtsleeve to polish the gold a little. "I think it is my favorite one now." He laughed.
Kalista giggled, "Well, I'm glad you liked it as much as I did." she handed him the black velvet pouch it came in.
The two went and sat back at the table and the silence resumed. Once Kalista was a bout to say something, she would stop and re think her words, never actually getting any words out.
Blowing on her tea to cool it, she looked back up to Frodo. He was sitting with his head down, staring at the teacup quietly. Kalista did not realize she was staring, but could not help but study the hobbit before her. His face shape had become more angular, mainly because the round cheeks that came with childhood had disappeared, reviling a strong chin and high cheekbones. His skin had grown a little paler, a sign of less outdoor activity, but he was always rather pale for a hobbit. She then noticed his eyes; they seemed older, not much, just with a little glint of some experience. Yet they were still clear, bright, and full of youth. The color glistened like the morning dew, a deep blue with a fleck of green and gold every now and then. She looked away then, but couldn't keep herself from looking back. His eyes were so entrancing to her. She never really had noticed them before.
Kalista finally snapped out of her trance and looked up at Frodo, fully smiling. "So, did anything interesting happen while I was gone that I should know about?"
Frodo looked up to Kalista and thought for a moment. "Nothing too interesting that I can think of. I did have the chance to see my cousins, Meridoc and Peregrin over the summer. That was fun because I had not been up to Buckland or the Great Smial for a while."
"I'm sure it was." Kalista replied as she sipped her tea.
Frodo nodded and took a sip of his tea. "And what about you. I saw and awful large amount of bags, did you have than many when you left?"
Kalista laughed and shook her head. "I did a lot of shopping in Michel Delving, thanks to Bilbo's generosity. I found some lovely dresses I could not resist buying."
"Well, if they are as pretty as the one you are wearing, I can't wait to see them," Frodo said as he stuck his tongue out playfully.
Kalista smiled, "well, I'll show them to you now then." she said excitedly. Kalista then walked into the common room and Frodo joined her, taking a seat on his leather chair as Kalista walked over to her bags. She hadn't worn any of them but once, when making sure they fit at the dress shop.
The reason she had been so excited over all of the clothing was mainly because they were all made for her, no hand-me-downs from her older sisters or one of the women from town. She went over to one of the suitcases and opened it, reveling layers upon layers of beautiful and interesting fabrics and patterns. She sat down on her knees and started to pull out some dresses, "Oh! This one I love." she said, holding up a beautiful mauve, blue and goldenrod party dress. The piping on the front was of a sideways check.
Kalista then pulled out the next dress. It wasn't a normal outfit; the new trend, she had been told. It was a button-up, flesh colored shirt with an olive green skirt and matching petticoat. "They told me to use this for a work dress. But I couldn't see how? It's too beautiful," She stated, laying it gingerly next to her and smiling up at Frodo, waiting for his approval.
"Both are very lovely." Frodo smiled as he examined both dresses. "But I think I like that green one the best. It is not so flashy." He chuckled. "You have good taste."
Kalista smiled, pulling out a green dress, "I know, they wanted to add bows but when I saw it on the model and I said 'no' and refused." She smiled, standing up and holding the dress up with one hand and pulling out the skirt with the other.
"Good for you." Frodo laughed. "Bilbo will be so happy to see you wearing them. Though I must say, it is odd seeing you so...thrilled about dresses..." He commented thoughtfully.
Kalista blushed and folded up the dress, "Sorry."
"For what? I think it is nice." He said, smiling. "It is just...well...different, I suppose." Frodo then added.
Kalista smiled politely to Frodo and nodded, "I know; I've changed a lot. But, I'm used to it. You know what? It's actually better, now I won't go getting into fights with men twice my size." She laughed, recalling her brawl with Lotho.
"Yes, that is true." Frodo laughed, thinking the same things she was. "So, let's see, what are some other changes I should know about?" Frodo then asked.
"Nothing you won't find out yourself in time." She smiled, finished folding the dresses, and placed them back into her bag. She then went and sat down across from him on a small stood by the fireplace.
"Well actually, there is something I wanted to tell you about," she smiled a little lightheartedly.
Frodo raised an eyebrow and Kalista's comment, not knowing what she meant. He looked at her with curiosity. "What?"
"Well. I have a beau." she smiled happily.
Frodo was quite surprised now. "Really? That is new..." He stated, not knowing what to say. "Who is he?"
"You know Sancho Millbanks? He said he was an old friend of yours." she smiled.
"Oh, yes, him." Frodo stated as he thought back to his time in Buckland, he and some of his cousins would visit Sancho at his parent's farm. Sancho was an all right Hobbit, though he could be a little air headed at times. Of course, he had no right to say anything against Sancho; he had not seen the hobbit in years.
Kalista raised an eyebrow at Frodo's sudden silence once he trailed off with what he was saying. Clearing her throat, she smiled at Frodo, "What's wrong?"
"Oh, nothing. I was just remembering him." Frodo said with a laugh. "I think it is wonderful news, though it is sudden."
"Yes well, we started out as friends and then we realized how much we had in common. I mean, I know he isn't 'all there' at times, but he really is a sweet hobbit." Kalista smiled as she thought about Sancho.
"That is good," Frodo stated as he stood up and walked over to a bookshelf and picked up a small blue leather bound book. He started thumbing a few pages carelessly. An uneasy silence then fell between Kalista and Frodo.
Kalista let out a sigh as she finished repacking her dresses and was about to say something when she heard a cheerful voice outside. Someone was singing and Kalista smiled as she stood up from the floor. "Bilbo's home."
Frodo looked towards the door and smiled as he heard Bilbo from outside as well. Placing the book back on the shelf, he went to the door and opened it for the older Hobbit. "Welcome Back Bilbo," Frodo greeted pleasantly.
"Hullo, you two!" Bilbo greeted in a huff as he caught his breath. "I am surprised you both are not outside! It is so beautiful today."
"We were just having some tea and catching up with each other," Kalista explained with a bright smile. "Would you like some?" Kalista then asked as she walked into the kitchen to fix a cup for Bilbo.
"Ah! Tea sounds good right now, I am parched!" Bilbo stated as he followed Kalista into the kitchen.
Frodo followed the other two into the kitchen as well and all three enjoyed another cup of tea. Some honey cakes were brought out to munch on as well. The group chatted about little things that had been going on in Hobbiton and Kalista was sure to ask Bilbo all the same questions she asked Frodo to make sure she was getting every detail of news she could.
Eventually, once everything was talked about and tea was finished, Kalista stood to clean up the table. However, Frodo refused to let her clean, she was just coming back from her trip and he did not want her to do any work. However, Kalista insisted on doing the dished for the two so she made Frodo sit down and began the chores.
"So Bilbo," Kalista commented as she picked up the dirty dishes from the table. "Are you still writing your book?"
Bilbo chuckled and his face brightened at the mention of his book. "Indeed, my dear, yes. I write a little everyday and it is coming along nicely."
Kalista smiled and was about to comment when Bilbo cut her off. "Speaking of writing, Frodo; I picked up a letter in Hobbiton. It was addressed to you."
Frodo raised an eyebrow and walked over to Bilbo as the older hobbit pulled the letter out of his coat pocket. It was a small letter with a red seal. Taking it, Frodo opened and smiled. "Ah, it is from Dora Boffin," he commented casually.
"Dora?" Kalista asked with curiosity. She leaned over on the table, leaning on her arms and looked up at Frodo. "How is Miss Boffin?"
"Her and Frodo have been seeing a lot of each other." Bilbo commented with a proud smile. "He hasn't told you?"
Kalista raised an eyebrow at Frodo and grinned playfully, "No, he didn't. Enlighten me."
Frodo turned red and shook his head, "It is nothing; Bilbo is just becoming a little delirious in his old age..." Frodo stated as he leaned against the kitchen wall and folded his arms over his chest.
"Nonsense, I saw you two at Blue-Bell Pettletop's birthday last month. Dora is quite smitten with you." Bilbo chuckled.
Kalista chuckled and smiled at the blushing hobbit, "Really? Smitten with Frodo? I never took him for the ladies' hobbit. Please Bilbo, tell me more," She antagonized. Kalista was enjoying teasing Frodo, she could tell he was uncomfortable talking about Dora but Kalista kept going.
"Oh, please don't encourage him..." Frodo moaned as he covered his face with one of his hands.
"Even at your age, you are so shy Frodo, come now." Bilbo chuckled, obvious to how he was making Frodo feel and Kalista was going along with it nicely.
"I am not shy, I just don't talk about my personal affairs in public." Frodo retorted. "Besides, that was just the one night. I heard Donald Peddlesworth of Little Delving was courting her now. So, you both can relax." Frodo grinned and walked out of the kitchen.
"Since when was I 'public'?" Kalista called teasingly. Frodo left however, ending the conversation. Kalista giggled and looked over to Bilbo with a light smile. "Are they a cute couple, at least?" She finally asked.
Bilbo shook his head and smiled. "I honestly do not know, my dear. I think Frodo likes to be around her because of her looks, but you know Frodo; he likes someone of the same tastes and intellect as he. Dora is a lovely girl but she cannot tell the difference between a dandelion and a sunflower. She lets her money talk."
Kalista nodded and folded her arms in front of her as she went into thought about the situation. So many things have changed. Frodo was attracted to a lass, even if Dora wasn't exactly the right choice for him (In Kalista's opinion), and Kalista had Sancho, and now, she was a lady. It was a bittersweet time now; there would be no more running about like a wild child, but she would find new things to occupy her time. She would start over and she had a feeling things were going to turn out for the best.
