Title: You're Late
Summary: Estel thinks his friend has forgotten him.
Disclaimer: Not mine unfortunately
You're Late
"Why isn't he here Dan?" The despondent whisper of the 10 year old lying next to him nearly broke his heart. Looking Estel in the eyes he saw none of the ecstatic happiness which had filled his brother the previous day had been replaced by hurt and confusion.
"Legolas promised to be here and he would not break that promise even if all of Arda tried to stop him from coming. Do not worry Estel he will be here." Hurt still shone from grey eyes but Elladan knew all he needed was reassurance " It is a long and unpredictable journey from Mirkwood and many times Legolas has been delayed in coming to Imladris but in the end he always makes it" Some of the hurt receded but it did not completely disappear. He knew it would only be gone once Estel had seen the prince of Mirkwood here, in Imladris, for himself.
Elrohir walking in to Estel's room knew immediately what was happening and with a glance to his twin sought to add his reassurances to Elladan's. "Have hope, Estel" With a fleeting, and almost convincing smile Estel closed his eyes slipping into a dreamless slumber.
The next morning dawned bright and Estel hoped today would finally bring the arrival of his friend. Although he eagerly anticipated Legolas' arrival it was not enough to get him out of his daily lessons. Erestor had set him an essay to write and although history was a favourite topic of his naught but a title was present on the parchment as Estel stared out the library window remembering the first time he had met Legolas. Although that was over 2 years ago they had constantly exchanged letters whenever possible. As his mind wandered he thought of the last letter he had received a month ago containing Legolas' plans to travel to Imladris.
Estel's thoughts had once again walked a path of their own when Elrohir calmly strolled through the door.
"Ada wishes me to inform you that a certain prince of Mirkwood will be in the courtyard very soon"
Estel was half way across the library by the time his brother was finished. As he ran past Elrohir he let out a whoop of joy racing to meet his friend as fast as possible. A smiling Elrohir followed at a slightly more dignified pace.
Waiting in the courtyard it was not long until even Estel heard the tell tale hoof beats that heralded princes arrival. When he was finally in sight Estel was almost jumping with joy though he managed to abstain from doing so. Legolas had barely dismounted when Estel rushed forward stopping abruptly a few feet away his smile replaced by a frown that while convincing all who knew him could tell from the brightness in his eyes it was not genuine. Estel then started what would be an everlasting joke between the two friends.
"You're late"
