melme Colle (or: hidden love)

Chapter twenty four Sweet sorrow

Erestor frowned when there was a knock on his door and slowly disentangled himself from Legolas, who had fallen asleep. He soundlessly walked over and cracked the door open.

He smiled and shook his head when he saw Aragorn standing on the other side. “Estel. I believe we’ve greeted each other already.”
Aragorn grinned and smiled affectionately. “Aye, but I’ve got a message from Meleor for Legolas. I take it he’s here?”
Erestor was indecisive on the next move. Should he let Aragorn enter, thus waking up Legolas, or should he accept the letter and give it later?

His eyes widened when two arms encircled him from behind. “I wondered what could have taken Erestor from my side.” Legolas’ blue eyes settled on his friend and Aragorn was pleased to see the happiness in them.
He wiggled his eyebrows. “Is it too much to ask for a hug, or are those solely reserved for Erestor now?”
Legolas laughed and hugged him tight. “Only the way your -hugs- are reserved for Arwen.”

He stepped back, leaning against his lover and his eyes beamed with happiness when Erestor embraced him tightly. He held out his hand. “You mentioned a letter?”
Aragorn grinned and retrieved it. “Here it is.” He gasped and hastily pulled his hand back, placed the letter back and retrieved another. “Made a mistake; that one is for adar. This is for you.” He laughed. “Good thing the one for your father is already delivered.”

Legolas smiled. “How is he?”
Aragorn shrugged. “Don’t know. Elladan did it for me.” He smiled reassuringly at his friend. “But don’t worry. I’m sure you would know if it was bad.”
Erestor nodded and forced Legolas to focus on the letter.

Aragorn could see he was too much in the room and he smiled at Erestor. “Well, any ideas where I can find adar, Erestor?”
Erestor locked eyes and Aragorn could swear he read gratitude in them. “Probably in his room, resting. Orophin is watching him, so you might want to hand the letter to him. Or get shot.”
Aragorn nodded. “Good, saves me a trip to the healers. Sometimes he forgets I am only human.”
Erestor grinned, remembering the past times Elrond indeed had forgotten and squished Aragorn too tightly, resulting in broken bones. “But promise me to rest afterwards. You look tired.”
Aragorn nodded. “Aye, Erestor, I am. I will rest.”

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Orophin smiled at the humour this volume contained. Part of him had trouble believing Elrond had it near his bed, but he loved reading it. He was so engrossed in it he failed to notice the door opening, signalling Elrond’s return.

Elrond stood nailed to the floor, suddenly unsure on how to proceed. What he really needed right now was some advice. But he couldn’t go to Erestor. He already knew what the counsellor would say and he knew Erestor was right, but still…

He turned and blinked when he heard a gasp behind him. Wonder marred his features upon seeing Aragorn’s puzzled and bemused look. His amazement swiftly made way for happiness and he pulled his foster child in a tight hug.
Aragorn hit his father on the back. “Adar, seas, have mercy on my fragile mortal bones.”
Elrond immediately pulled and smiled at him. “I’ve missed you and Arwen. But what brings you to my rooms?”
Aragorn shrugged while he stretched his back, forcing his muscles to their rightful place. “Besides the knowledge you desire to practically hug me to death?” He shook his head, but his eyes betrayed his mirth and affection.

He retrieved the letter. “Meleor asked me to give it to you.”
Elrond cocked his head. “Any idea what’s in it?”
Aragorn nodded. “Aye, the desire to set up some trade with you.”
Elrond nodded and handed the letter back. “Then you should give it to Celeborn. That is his turf now.” He grinned. “Just what you need: another elf to hug you to death.”
Aragorn snorted. “He does not hug.”

He inclined his head in departure but before he turned he wiggled his eyebrows and leaned in closer. “Do I know of this or should I keep my mouth shut?”
Elrond turned red and stern, giving Aragorn his silent answer.
The Gondorian turned and ran away, laughing loudly as he heard the insults thrown at him.

Elrond threw the door close and growled. “Insolent imp.”
Orophin looked at him in wonder and frowned, not having expected that behaviour. He realised it was his fault in the first place. “I apologize. I should have dressed myself.”
Elrond mellowed and waved the apology away, smiling. “You wouldn’t have come far with that, I think.” Seeing Orophin look at him with wondering eyes he looked at himself. “It seems I am wearing your tunic.”
Orophin looked a bit closer and grinned. “So you are. I hope I can still wear it now. You do carry more bulk up there.”
Elrond snorted and removed the item. “It’s your own fault for putting our clothes together.”

He sat down and showed Orophin the letter. “Care to tell me what my wife is referring to?” He could see the other turn red and embarrassed and wondered what would come.
Orophin sighed and inhaled deep, before settling his gaze on Elrond. “Before you even courted her she teased me about loving you.”
Elrond nodded. “I see.”
Orophin smiled and shook his head. “No, you don’t. I did love you.” He shrugged. “I just hid it very well. I know my lord and lady were hoping you would marry Celebrian, and her teasing was just her way of talking about you, her love.” He smiled fondly. “She wrote me that before she sailed, knowing you would suffer.”
Elrond narrowed his eyes. “Asking you to warm my bed. That’s cruel.” But he couldn’t be mad at her, knowing her inner light had been torn, and thus her perception on life itself.
Orophin smiled and placed his hand on Elrond’s. “No, it’s not. She asked me to help you heal. But I’ve never seen any signs of grief.” He shrugged. “So why approach you when you didn’t need it?”
Elrond nodded and went silent.

After a while Elrond decided he needed to know. “And this? You taking care of me? What does that mean?” He already knew the other loved him, but he needed the other to speak the words. That realisation brought forth another: he now knew Erestor had been more than right. He -had- changed since Lindon.
Orophin blushed. “A lot.”
Elrond stood. “I see. You’ve started to wonder what it would be like and this letter give you a free ticket to bed me once.” His voice was cold and clipped, though it came more from his inner debate than Orophin’s words.
It alerted Orophin and the warrior left the bed instantly, placing his hand on Elrond’s shoulder. “Nay. That’s not it. Aye, I admit I fantasize about you, but that has nothing to do with lust.” He sighed. “I’ve just told you I’ve loved you before you even met your wife. Surely the only deduction you can draw isn’t lust?” His voice was disbelieving.
Elrond turned. “Then what is it? It’s not love. Every time you mention love you speak in the past, not the present!” /Perhaps the words in your sleep were also in the past./
Orophin realised Elrond was right and lowered his eyes. “I hadn’t realised.”

Elrond narrowed his eyes. “So your feelings have changed! -That- is the conclusion I draw.”
Orophin nodded. “Aye, that they have.” He smiled warmly and stopped Elrond from hitting him. “They’ve deepened and became stronger.” He completely opened his eyes. “I love you.” He sighed, knowing admission time had arrived. “Truth is that I’ve always feared speaking it, but not anymore.”

He rested his head on Elrond’s shoulder. “I overheard your conversation with Erestor.”
Elrond gasped. His mind worked swift and he raised Orophin’s head by the chin. “You knew?” Seeing the other nod he shook his head in mild disbelief. He couldn’t understand Orophin hadn’t mentioned it. “Then why didn’t you do anything sooner?”
Orophin shrugged. “You wouldn’t have welcomed it. You fear it; my love, yours, ours. So why push you?”
Elrond looked at him and suddenly realised Orophin was right. “You are right.”

He sat down, pulling Orophin along. “I’m glad I found the letter or I still wouldn’t know.” He feared losing Orophin in the future, but he refused to let it stop him. Erestor was right, it would not only hurt himself but Orophin as well and that he refused to do.

He grinned. “You are right. You should court me slowly.” He smiled wickedly at the surprised look that now graced Orophin and he rested his head against the other.
The warrior automatically placed his arms around him. Slowly the totally of this conversation seeped through and when it did he squished the other in happiness.

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The coming weeks were spent in leisure. Arwen and Aragorn enjoyed themselves in Imladris and being near their loved ones, who in turn longed to spend as much time as possible with them. Only Elrohir remained absent, stating he needed to be in the healing house to monitor the three healing elves. But eventually the day for them to leave arrived.

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Arwen smiled at her father. “We have to leave soon. Why won’t you tell me what is wrong?”
Elrond smiled at her care and pulled her closer. He would miss his daughter. “All right, but you mustn’t speak of it.”
Arwen nodded and rested her head against his shoulder. She would miss him terribly.
“Orophin loves me.”
Of all the things Elrond could have said this stunned her the most. She sat back up and took him in, only to realise he was being totally honest and completely serious. She blinked and slowly a smile broke through. “And you? Do you love him back?” She hoped he did. She wanted her father to be happy.
Elrond closed his eyes and nodded. “Aye, I do.” Now that he was talking to her he slowly told her the whole tale.
She shook her head in bemused disbelief when it was over. “Let me see. You love him, he loves you.” She shook her head again when her father nodded. “Then why are you hiding it? Love is to be flaunted.”
Elrond laughed at her words and shook his head. “First of all, we’re still getting to know each other, I mean…” Arwen smiled and nodded her understanding. “And secondly, I fear your brother’s disapproval. Elrohir isn’t exactly accepting of Celeborn and Haldir.”
Arwen gasped and clapped her hands. “I knew it! I knew it! I thought that was what nona meant.” She hugged her father. “Oh, I am so glad you both found love again. Though it took you a little longer to find it.”

She stood and her gaze became stern. “And I shall knock some sense into Ro. How dare he disapprove?” She marched away and Elrond actually groaned, not looking forward to nurture Elrohir back to health.

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Arwen didn’t knock but instantly marched inside, making a surprised Elladan frown, before he stood. He recognized the look in her eyes and now fervently prayed it wasn’t for him. He swallowed. “Arwen?”

She glared at him. “First: adar is in love and you have to make sure it deepens.” Her eyes flashed through the room, noticing Elladan’s delicate touch in the interior. It was clear Elrond now completely shared the study with his eldest. That knowledge brought a smile on her face, which made Elladan relax, a little. “Second?”

She growled as she was reminded of her mission. “Ata’da found love with Haldir.”
Elladan’s eyes lit up. “Really? That is great! They’ll be perfect for each other.”
Arwen cocked her head. “Well, it is nice to know at least one of my brothers possesses a brain.”
Elladan widened his eyes, not liking the inclination. “Ro still disapproves? He promised he would give them a fair chance.” His tone was hurt and Arwen was propelled forward, the need to hug him too great. “Maybe he will, but it his disapproval towards them that makes adar afraid to deepen the relationship between Orophin and himself.”
Elladan jumped up and twirled her round. “I knew it, I knew it. Orophin and adar are in love. I just knew it.”

He put her back on the floor and smiled warmly. “I will keep an eye on them, and ata’da and Haldir. Perhaps if you talked to Ro?”
Arwen nodded. “I will. I’ve wanted to since I arrived, but…” She shrugged. “And maybe Erestor can aid you? I mean if Elrohir still…”
Elladan nodded. “I will definitely consider it, seler.” He hugged her tight. “Oh, how I will miss you.”
She grinned as she walked out and went in search of either Erestor or her other brother.

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Haldir frowned when the door opened. Disappointment seeped in his eyes when it didn’t reveal Celeborn, only Elrohir.

The twin smiled. “I am here to see how you are doing and check you up. We hope today we can remove those bandages, though I should warn you the pain will intensify when we do. If they are gone you suddenly feel how supportive they’ve been.”
Haldir nodded and allowed the examination calmly.

He looked at the twin closely. “Why are you so harsh on your grandfather? Did you two fight?”
Elrohir narrowed his eyes. “That’s none of your business, Warden!”
Haldir smiled but shook his head. “I beg to differ. My allegiance still lies with him. It only extends to your father and because he offered his loyalty to him.” He smiled, seeing the pain in the orbs. “We all miss them you know. Your mother and grandmother.”
Elrohir looked at him in anger and was about to lash out when Haldir placed a letter in his hands. “Your grandmother gave me this before she left. Perhaps you should read it. It might bring you some comfort or help you understand. I do not wish to take her place, and I couldn’t even I wished it. He loves her still, and he always will, like your father will never stop loving your mother. But you wouldn’t want him to remain alone forever either, would you?”
Elrohir lowered his gaze, feeling guilty. “Of course I want them to be happy, but…”

Haldir smiled and pulled him closer. “You need some time to adjust.” He grinned. “But I suggest you do that swiftly, for I fear Arwen is anxious to hit you.” He shook his head fondly. “She just barged in before you and her eyes were liquid fire.”
Elrohir shivered. “I better hide till she’s calmed down. And make sure Erestor doesn’t learn.”
Haldir grinned. “Don’t worry about it. But do me a favour; talk to them.”
Elrohir frowned. “Why should I talk to adar about this?”
Haldir smiled. “Because sooner or later your father might receive a suitor, and it would be better if he knew you’d approved, wouldn’t it?”
Elrohir smiled and nodded. “I can see why ata’da likes you. You’re very wise.”
Haldir blushed and waved him gone.

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Celeborn frowned when there was a knock on the study-door. He wondered who would be seeking him. Since the change all counsellors, advisors and scribes hardly needed their guidance and he knew it could not be Elladan, who was sought out more by the others than the other way around.
He softly called out to his visitor and smiled warmly when it turned out to be his other grandson.

Seeing the affection in his grandfather’s eyes made Elrohir feel even guiltier and he lowered his gaze, shuffling closer. He felt like he was a child again, apologizing for a prank gone wrong. Nay, worse, for this wasn’t a prank, but feelings.

Seeing the state Elrohir was in forced Celeborn to quickly approach and develop him in a tight hug. He wondered what could have happened to put him in such a state. /Haldir? Is something wrong and does he fear telling me?/

“Elrohir, why are you here? How can I help?”
Elrohir sighed. “Can you ever forgive me?” T
hese words widened Celeborn’s eyes, whose fear grew. “Forgive you? For what? Elrohir, by Elbereth, you are scaring me. What is it?” He steered them to the large couch, though more for his own sake than Elrohir’s; his legs were about to turn to jelly.

Elrohir smiled but still avoided his gaze. “I wasn’t thinking straight and all I could see was betrayal but I didn’t mean it and I’m sorry, I really am, and I hope adar finds someone as well and please don’t be mad.” He now looked up and hoped Celeborn wasn’t too mad at him. His eyes widened when he saw a flabbergasted Celeborn sitting next to him, blinking, trying to digest the news. Suddenly understanding entered the orbs and a smile was born. That reassured Elrohir a little and he managed one in return.

Celeborn pulled him close. “Aiya, Elrohir, there’s nothing to forgive. And I hadn’t realised it was that obvious.” He cocked his head. “How do your siblings feel?”
Elrohir grinned. “Happy. And according to Haldir Arwen is looking to talk some sense into me.”
Celeborn grinned. “Better tell her it isn’t necessary. I don’t think your father will want to nurture you back to health.” He kept the embrace, knowing Elrohir needed the comfort and contact and he tightened it when the Peredhel leaned into it.

Elrohir rested his head against his grandfather. “I’m really sorry. I hope adar finds someone too.”
Celeborn smiled. “I shall let you in on a little secret.” When Elrohir looked at him questioningly he placed a finger before his lips. “But keep it a secret, Elrohir, don’t even tell your twin.”
Elrohir nodded. “I promise.”
Celeborn smiled. “I happen to know that love already found your father.” He shrugged. “He only hasn’t seen it yet.”
Elrohir beamed and his eyes filled with happiness. “Who is it?”
But Celeborn shook his head. “I cannot tell you for I don’t want you to give him away by altering your behaviour around and towards him.” He smiled warmly when the guilt entered the orbs again and hurried to reassure him. “Not because you disapprove but precisely because you do approve.”
Understanding, Elrohir nodded, though he was a bit saddened at not knowing who loved his father. But he did know the gender and secretly he was a little relieved it was a male.

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“Mmmm” Laughter entered his hearing and suddenly the sensation of being kissed registered. Within seconds he was fully awake and smiled pleasurably at his bed partner, whose only response was to deepen the kiss. He eagerly returned it and pulled the other closer.

Thranduil smiled and pulled back, giving them both air to breathe. “I was hoping that might wake you.” He had become fed up with watching his lover sleep and holding him. He was almost back to full health and he yearned for the other, especially his lips.

Glorfindel smiled. “Best wake up call ever.” He closed the distance again to renew the kiss, drawing a laugh from the other. Feeling it vibrate in his mouth made him hard within seconds. His arousal only hardened when he felt his lover’s response to it. Even though he was still healing he didn’t want this stop; he yearned for the other, has yearned for him ever since their first time.

When the blond straddled him he vaguely wondered how they would manage, him being injured, but the kiss drove all thought away.
Thranduil carefully blanketed his lover, mindful not to put any pressure on Glorfindel’s healing wounds. His eyes shone with mischief and one hand stole between their bodies to curl around the seneschal’s member.

The expert touch made Glorfindel buck in want and he moaned inside the other’s mouth. He felt a slight discomfort in his side, but couldn’t care less. All he wanted was Thranduil’s touch, his kiss.
Thranduil broke the kiss and smiled lovingly at his carefully squirming lover. “You are beautiful in your need, melethten.”
Glorfindel’s eyes darkened another shade at those words and he pulled the other close for another bruising kiss.
Thranduil happily obliged him and slowly stroked the other at the same time. He couldn’t help but laugh when he felt Glorfindel align their arousals. Understanding his lover’s desire, he carefully thrust them together.

Glorfindel felt his release approaching and wanted to warn his lover, but had no desire to end the kiss, so he bucked and grasped the other’s hair to signal his approach. He was glad he saw understanding in Thranduil’s orbs but nearly growled when the kiss was broken.

His eyes widened in surprised disbelief when Thranduil tightly held his base, cutting off the connection and stopping him from climaxing. Before he knew it he felt the other’s mouth closing over his twitching member. The sensation alone nearly catapulted him off the bed and Thranduil had to use force to assure Glorfindel’s wounds didn’t reopen.

Knowing his lover was too close he sighed regretfully; he would have loved making it last a little longer, but he knew they couldn’t risk it now. So he carefully let go and the moment he did Glorfindel came and came hard.

He only vaguely registered Thranduil greedily drinking all he gave and he hardly noticed the feline licks, cleaning him. When he had come down enough to register what was happening Thranduil had crawled back up and was holding him close, caressing his flank and face.

When the sated, happy eyes locked with his, Thranduil smiled and claimed the lips again. He pulled back and cocked his head when he appeared to be the only participant. Glorfindel’s displeased moan puzzled him even more.
Seeing it, the seneschal realized he had to reassure his lover and rose his arm to caress his face. His muscles protested against the action and he had to stifle a whimper. Even though he opened his mouth to speak forming coherent sentences seemed too much of an effort and the only words to come out were “Tired… Love you.”
Hearing the slurred and incomplete words Thranduil was shocked to realise he had completely worn out his lover. Perhaps it had been too swift and Glorfindel had not yet healed enough. Guilt entered his orbs and he pulled his love close. “Then sleep. And I promise to wait until you are fully healed before we engage such activity again.”

His eyebrows went up, but a stern and serious look remained when Glorfindel’s eyes showing disagreement, which was accompanied by a wary shake of the head.
Thranduil caressed his face. “I will not relent. You will have to make do with kissing and perhaps heal a little faster.” He smiled warmly and suddenly found two lips on his, Glorfindel’s mute plea to kiss him. which he happily did, keeping it soft and tender.

Glorfindel was glad. He could handle the waiting but to do without Thranduil’s kisses would have been pure torment.

Thranduil pulled back and shook his head, only with great effort holding in his laughter; Glorfindel had fallen asleep during the kiss. He pulled him closer and allowed sleep to claim him as well.

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Erestor sadly stared out the window; the time to say goodbye to Arwen and Aragorn was approaching and he couldn’t help but grow sad. He had already walked towards the courtyard and watched if all preparations were made properly.

“Meldir?”
Erestor turned and smiled at Elrond’s worried face. “Elrond. Is it time already?”
Understanding instantly dawned on Elrond and he hurried to hug his friend.

Together they walked down the stairs. “Almost. They will visit often and I bless the Valar we still have the twins here.”
Erestor nodded and forced his tears to remain inside.
Elrond leaned in to whisper in his ears. “And we are lucky to have our understanding lovers, who remain.” Erestor’s head snapped towards him and Elrond was glad his ploy had worked. He shrugged. “You were right. And he loves me back.”
Erestor narrowed his eyes; he knew Elrond well enough to know there was more.
The Peredhel shrugged. “Celebrian wrote him a letter.” He locked eyes. “He loved me even before I met Celebrian. Can you imagine that?”
Erestor’s eyes widened, never having expected those words. “I think he and Legolas have a lot in common.” He smiled lovingly when he added “And we are fortunate to have them.” Elrond nodded. “Very fortunate indeed.”

The first to join them was Aragorn, accompanied by Legolas and Gimli, both of whom were sad to see their friend leave.

“I repeat my offer, Gimli. Gondor will always welcome you.”
Gimli nodded. “Aye, I know, but I have to stay here and look after these elves.” He grinned. “Without me they’d trip over their own two feet.”
Aragorn nodded. “Aye, being so tall and all.” He hugged first Dwarf and then Legolas. “I am glad you have finally found your love, mellon nin.”
Legolas beamed with happiness and nodded. He didn’t mind leaving Aragorn’s side, for he instantly went to Erestor’s, who smiled at the gesture.

Elrond frowned. “And where are my children? They are late.”
Aragorn grinned, returning from inspecting his men. “Oh, the twins will be here and Arwen is just running about, searching for something.” He wiggled his eyebrows. “Or should I say someone?”
Elrond hung his head and shook it, knowing all too well what the Gondorian meant.

Aragorn now approached Erestor and hugged the stunned advisor tight. “You I shall miss the most. You’ve taught me all I know and shaped me to the man I am today.”
Erestor blushed and playfully hit the man. “You are mistaken, Estel. Others have taught you as well and many things have shaped you. Most importantly your days in the wild.” He smiled fondly and rested his hand on Aragorn’s shoulder. “Look after her.”
Aragorn nodded and hugged him once more.

He grinned when he saw the twins approaching, who were flanking Celeborn.

The elder elf waited until the twins were done squishing Aragorn and then approached him. “I also bring you greetings from Haldir and his brothers, who cannot be here to see you off, and of course from Glorfindel and Thranduil, who are still healing.” He said the formal greeting and stepped back.

Aragorn sighed resigned. He had hoped this could have been avoided, but no such luck.
Just seeing his posture made the approaching Elrond laugh. He stunned the man by loosely hugging him.
Aragorn frowned and actually placed his hand on Elrond’s forehead, checking for a fever.
It made Elrond laugh and the Peredhel smiled at him. “I thought you wanted a normal hug?” His eyes glistened with mischief. “But if you don’t…” He didn’t finish his sentence and moved to embrace the mortal again, who swiftly jumped, shocked, and fervently shook his head. “Nay, please, adar, nay. And aye, I shall miss you too.”
Elrond’s warm laugh filled the courtyard and many snickers behind him could be heard.

All went silent when a loud scream echoed through the place.
Arwen had come here, knowing she was late and now that she finally saw her illusive brother she was furious. She ran closer and dropped her belongings ungracefully on the floor and glared at Elrohir. The twin dove away, but wasn’t fast enough to avoid the punch his sister aimed at him. “You half-witted brainless orc!”
Elrohir now sought refuge behind Erestor and pleadingly looked at Aragorn. “Seas, stop her.”
Arwen growled and crossed her arms before her chest. “Coward! Hiding behind Erestor.” She snorted. “Fine, I shall leave now, but if I hear you are giving ata or ata’da a hard time, I’ll be back!”
Elrohir smiled and nodded, stepping forward, though within range of safety.

He waited until Arwen was hugging her other brother before speaking again. “Perhaps I -should- be giving you a hard time, ata, ata’da, for then our Arwen returns.” His eyes glistened and Celeborn shook his head, pulling his grandson close. “Be quiet. You escaped her clutches this time. Stop while you’re ahead.” Elrohir grinned and nodded, gratefully and affectionately leaning against his grandfather.

He wanted to draw the attention away from himself, so he decided to make his grandfather happy by already breaking the happy news. “I think Haldir can leave the healing house soon.”
Elrond turned and frowned. “And Thranduil can’t?” Now that surprised him.
Elrohir shrugged. “Aye, he can, but Glorfindel can’t and I don’t want to take the calming effect away.”
Elrond smiled understandingly.
Erestor now looked at Elrohir as well. “How is he doing?”
Elrohir grinned. “Fine. He’s healing very nicely and I think next week we can move him to his rooms.” He locked eyes with Legolas. “Even though he had a mysterious set-back today. Totally fatigued; he didn’t even wake up during my examinations.”
Legolas grinned, understanding the hidden message. He was glad for his father and his happiness needed a way out and the next sound to echo through the space was Erestor’s surprised yelp as he was suddenly tightly hugged.

TBC25