Chapter Six: Epilogue
The Company of Thorin Oakenshield departed from Beorn's house eight days later. Their host graciously supplied them with ponies, supplies, food, instructions…and flowers.
Unlike the others who stifled their sighs, blushed, or chuckled quietly, Thorin scowled in disbelief, lifting the crown of flowers off his head with two fingers, and glared at the offending plants. Looking up, the dwarven king discovered the man watching him. In spite of his intimidating, grizzly appearance, the skin-changer was currently doing a fine impression of a little kicked puppy, his bottom lip trembling, wide dark eyes sad and shining.
Blinking slowly, the dwarf's scowl lessened. Looking back and forth between the flower crown and Beorn, Thorin swallowed hard. Clumsily he set the crown back on top of his hair. Glancing covertly towards the huge man, he witnessed his face brighten as he grinned happily. Puffing up a little, Thorin wasn't entirely successful in suppressing a small smile.
Between goodbyes, the skin-changer insisted on final dwarf cuddles and hobbit hugs. None refused him, the creatures' reactions varying from exasperation to pleasure. Gandalf was the last to take his leave of his friend, and his companions watched in amazement while Beorn swept the wizard up in his strong arms, rocking him back and forth.
"Until next time, Sir Stork!" the grizzly man exclaimed.
Settled back on his feet, Gandalf laughed and patted the man's arm, his flower crown slipping to one side, seemingly unaware of the others gaping at him.
"Sir Stork…now I've heard everything!" Bilbo said.
Beorn's fond laughter boomed loudly.
THE END
Author's Note: Thank you everyone for your reading, following, and feedback! Hope you enjoyed yourself. :)