Next and last chapter will be up next week.
Natulcien smiled shyly as Legolas presented her with a bunch of the beautiful wildflowers that grew on the grassy knoll overlooking the sea. She accepted them and blushed. It had been years since they had last laid eyes on each other and something inside her had changed. She couldn't stand to spend a minute away from him, and yet, when they would show up unexpectedly, time seemed to stop so she could enjoy his company, his conversation and his attentions.
"Why did we never marry?" Natulcien asked, taking his offered arm.
"You knew I would leave, and somehow, I did too. I wanted to ask… but I wanted to spare you the pain." Legolas said sadly. "But if I was to ask you, what would you say?" His green eyes glinted mischievously in the afternoon sun.
"My lord, is that a proposal?" Natulcien asked, a grin growing on her face.
"Only if you wish it, my lady."
"I would say yes." She answered him jubiliantly.
Legolas stopped walking and faced her. An inexplicable joy and excitement washed over him and him he gave her a carefree smile and leaned in. He nudged her nose with his own. He brought her closer to him and brushed his lips against her quivering ones. He knew she was nervous, and he reciprocated her feelings. He was terrified of making a mistake and losing her. He had left her behind once; he didn't plan on doing it again.
"I love you." Natulcien's voice shook, reaching a hand up to touch his cheek.
Legolas covered her hand with his own. "I love you, too."
ooo
Legolas grinned, a tear falling down his cheek. "I do vow, here upon this day, to love and protect this lady, Natulcien, until the end of time." His voice was strong, his posture assured, but his eyes were afraid. He was afraid of failing the one that meant everything to him. He joined hands with his beloved, symbolizing their impending unity. He reached a hand up to wipe a tear from Natulcien's face.
"I do vow, here upon this day, to love and cherish this lord, Legolas, until time ends and the world collapses." Natulcien, normally quiet and timid, spoke out with strength and dignity. She smiled at him through her joyful tears.
"You may kiss your bride."
Legolas needed no further encouragement.
ooo
Legolas laughed merrily with Elladan and Elrohir as they continued to bandy petty insults. He watched the sky, not truly listening to the twins. His mind was on his beautiful wife at home. They had been married for nearly a century and he was still distfcated by thought so fher smile, her silky hair and her laugh. A small smile adorned his face.
"Legolas… Legolas… Legolas." Elladan said disapprovingly.
"My dear friend, what ever is on your mind?" Elrohir asked, as if he did not know.
"Natulcien."
Elladan rolled his eyes. "It bodes will for you that she is approaching on horseback."
Elrohir grinned. "We will see you later."
Natulcien slowed her horse, a silly grin covering her beautiful face. Tears were streaming down her face, but joy was shining in her chocolate eyes. Legolas dismounted as she did. He put his hands on her face and kissed her lips gently.
"What is it?"
"… You wanted to name our first child Estel."
Legolas nodded, completely clueless. "What do you mean?"
"I am carrying our child, husband."