Frodo and Sam: A Love Story

THE LAST GOOD SUMMER

by Janet Elizabeth

PROLOGUE

Some things are just meant to be, like the love between friends that is so sacred and so joyful, no matter
if it is forbidden or frowned upon or scorned. So was the love of Samwise Gamgee and Frodo Baggins. It was a thing of beauty, born of friendship and necessity and destiny, for some loves are the
only thing able to carry you through fire and back. And that is just what this love did, carried both hobbits to the brink of the fire and back out again. This is the story of how this precious thing began

One rainy spring afternoon...

*****

*Sam sat silent and said no more. He had a good deal to think about. For one thing, there was a lot to
do up in the Bag End garden, and he would have a busy day tomorrow, if the weather cleared. The grass was growing fast. But Sam had more on his mind than gardening. After a while he sighed, and
got up and went out.

It was early April and the sky was now clearing after a heavy rain. The sun was down, and a cool pale evening was quietly fading into night. He walked home under the early stars through Hobbiton and up
the Hill, whistling softly and thoughtfully.

From THE FELLOWSHIP OF THE RING: SHADOW OF THE PAST*

**********

It was raining gently as Sam trundled his wheelbarrow down the hill towards Frodo's house. He was on his way to tend to the garden, and most especially the small patch of mushrooms he had carefully
encouraged, despite the fact that the ground around the Baggins garden wasn't really suitable for that kind of planting. He had planted them as a surprise for his master, knowing his passion for the tasty
fungus and they were about ready for picking. In fact, the rain would have made them just ripe and ready enough. Sam licked his lips at the thought of the platter of mushrooms and bacon that he would
fry up for Frodo and surprise him with. He glowed warmly at the thought of his master's gratitude and joy

He rounded the corner of Frodo's house and was astonished to find his master hunched over the patch of mushrooms and grubbing on the ground. He dropped his wheelbarrow and just stared at the
comically greedy figure who was chuckling to himself and ripping mushrooms from the earth at a rapid rate. He clicked his tongue and shook his head, arms akimbo and hands on hips. Frodo didn't notice
him, so intent was he on his task. Sam stumped up and stood over his master fighting the grin that wanted to spread across his face. He cleared his throat.

Frodo jumped and looked up with a greedy, guilty expression on his almost elvish features. His blue eyes just stared into Sam's as he clasped his hands around his prize. He tried to struggle to his feet,
avoiding his friend and gardener's stern gaze, but he slipped on the muddy ground and fell fln hin his face. Sam could hold his amusement no longer as the laughter burst from his lips.

His amusement quickly turned to chagrin as he saw his master struggling to get his face out of the mud, all the while never letting go of the mushrooms. Bending down, Sam put a hand under Frodo's arm and
heaved him to his feet. Frodo stood breathless and spluttering mud as Sam clucked his tongue at him again.

"Now Mister Frodo, what are you doin' grubbin' in the garden like this?" Said Sam with all the gruffness he could manage. "I mean, look at you, covered from head to toe in mud and all for a few
mushrooms that you sneaked about to find and couldn't wait to get at. Tsk."

Frodo looked abashed and peered up at Sam from beneath lowered lashes, like an errant child being punished. An odd feeling came over the young gardener then as he looked at the gleam of deep blue
eyes from beneath dark lashes. A heat flushed over his body in ways that only Rosie Cotton had been able to inspire. Sam shook himself and pushed the feeling aside, putting it down to the rarity of light
eyes among hobbits. He reached for his master and prying his hands open, he took the slightly squished mushrooms from Frodo's hands and dropped them in the almost full basket that sat by the
muddy patch of earth. He then picked up the basket and taking Frodo by a dirty arm he began to march towards the house.

"Now lets get you cleaned up, and something hot inside you to warm you up after your mud bath." Said Sam cheerfully. "How about some mushrooms and a rasher of bacon, all f up up the way you like?"

"That sounds perfect Sam." Said Frodo, finally finding his voice. "I was hoping to do just that when you... uhm .. discovered me! It's a lovely surprise you planted for me too Sam. I do appreciate it."

"Yes and you had to spy and couldn't wait for me to spring it on you, could you?" Grumped Sam as they reached Frodo's front door.

Frodo stopped and turned to face his friend and servant. He placed his hands on Sam's shoulders and looked deeply into his eyes.

"I am sorry Sam. I didn't mean to ruin your surprise, but you know me and mushrooms?" He said and grinned at his friend.

Sam grinned back and then blushed, his thoughts running in turmoil.

*... he surely does have some very deep dimples in his smile don't he sam my lad ... now what would make you notice that after all this time ... maybe you're just paying more attention now that you've been
recruited to keep an eye or two on him by mister merry and mister pippin and mister fredigar ... but my don't he look almost as pretty as any hobbit lass ... now stop your thinkin' in that direction sam gamgee
... you ought not to think such thoughts about no hobbit lad ... though by all that ted sandyman tells there is some what do just that ... but you ain't one o' those so set your mind in order ... *

Sam stepped away from his masters touch and pushed his way in the front door.

"Now you just stay right there Mister Frodo, whiles I puts these 'shrooms in pantry. Don't come tracking any mud into the house or it'll take ages to get it all clean again."

He glanced back at Frodo and saw a puzzled look on his face, which soon turned to a smile as he noticed Sam looking at him. Sam shivered again as that hot feeling prickled over his skin. Shaking
himself he continued to issue orders to his master.

"I'll be right back with a bucket of warm water Mister Frodo." bellowed Sam from the first pantry. "And some towels for you to wrap yourself in after we rinse the worst of the mud away. You might as
well get inside. No need to worry about getting the mat muddy as that's easy to clean and get out of those clothes. You're soaked through and chilled too, or my name's not Sam Gamgee."

Sam bustled about getting the things to get Frodo clean.

~*~

Frodo stood on the front mat, door swinging shut behind him and peeling the sticky, goo encrusted clothes from his pudgy frame. He puzzled over Sam's reaction to him this morning and over his own as
well. It was odd the way his friend had blushed when Frodo touched him and looked into his eyes. He had done these things before, to show Sam how much he was coming to mean to him as a friend. It
was not uncommon for hobbits of all ages to be affectionate with one another and certainly not unusual for hobbit males to form close attachments, but lately he had been noticing and feeling odd things at odd
moments.

Ever since he had reached his majority, he had waited to find himself attached in some way to one of the local hobbit lasses. There were certainly plenty of them of all types, whether you preferred pretty
or sweet or practical or any combination of all three. There had been many inquiries from mother's looking to marry their daughters off to a respectable old hobbit family, despite what was said about the
Baggins'. But none of them had appealed in any particular way.

None of them were as good company or made him laugh the way Sam did. There were times when he would catch himself gazing secretly at Sam's plain, wholesome face. At those times an odd hot feeling
would ripple across his skin, like the rippling of summer wheat in the fields. He would feel his face grow hot then and he would have to look away. He often found himself wondering how Sam would
feel if he asked him to move in with him and stay as a permanent resident of Bag End. Frodo would justify these thoughts by saying that Sam was a dear friend and he was lonely since Bilbo had gone
away. He would tell himself that he needed a friend with him during the lonely hours. A small outspoken part of his mind would say other things, but Frodo wouldn't listen. He shut out that little voice with thoughts of how improper a thing that would be and how he would never want to hurt Sam with any kind of scandal. Sam was more than a gardener and man-servant to him. He was a friend,
deep and abiding and closer every day. When the time came for Sam to marry Rosie Cotton, he felt he would despair, and felt ashamed for thinking such thoughts about his friend and his happiness.

The sound of Sam's return made Frodo shake off his strange feelings, and allowed his gladness at his presence fill him. If Sam was his friend then there was joy in that friendship. He stood naked on the
mat awaiting Sam and his bundle of towels.

Sam did not disappoint as he bustled up with fresh towels balanced on his head and a bucket of hot water carried between his arms. Frodo noticed that Sam avoided looking at his naked body, though
hobbits were never shy amongst the same sex. The young gardener set down his burdens and immediately handed Frodo two towels to wrap himself in. He then swooped down on the muddy
bundle of clothes piled to his master's side and dumped them in the steaming water.

"There Mister Frodo." huffed Sam. "You cover yourself up and go right to the first bathing room. I've a tub filled with hot, but not too hot, water and I've even added some of that oil you like to it. I know
how you are about your bathes. I'll take care of these things, getting them rinsed out and into the laundry. You shoo and I'll be there in a minute to wash the mud outta your ears and hair though how
you got it in there from just picking mushrooms, I'll be stumped!."

Frodo laughed his musical laugh and watched as his friend shivered slightly at the sound. Frodo wondered again at Sam's reaction, but said nothing and pattered off to the bathing room and the
wonderful bath that was awaiting him there. He heard Sam chuckling to himself on the doorstep as he slipped inside the steamy room. Dropping the slightly muddy towels on the floor, he sat on the edge of
the tub and gazed into the swirling foggy water. He listened for a moment as Sam stumped off to the laundry room and deposited the now rinsed clothes, while he slid beneath the hot, oily surface up to his neck.

Muscles relaxed as the heat did it's job and Frodo closed his eyes feeling soothed and cared for. It was so good to have Sam around and doing for him. It was so good not be alone and without someone to
care for him and for him to care for. He was very lucky that the Gamgee's lived in Bagshot Row and that Uncle Bilbo had taken them on as gardeners. Frodo sighed contentedly and relaxed.

~*~

After dumping the still slightly muddy clothes into the laundry room, Sam stood shaking and muttering to himself.

"It don't mean nothin' just cause you saw him in the altogether. Hobbit lads do it all the time when we bathe and it don't mean nothin! Now you don't have to go and react the way you did. And this feeling
you got in your gut ain't supposed to be there. You're only supposed to have that feelin' for Rosie and not even she gets to know about it until after you've wed. But it's just plain wrong to have that feelin'
for Mister Frodo, even if he was 'that way'. It don't matter if he is but you don't got no reason to be feelin' this Samwise so just stop it right now. Mister Frodo wouldn't have you anyways, so stop being
an addle-pated hobbit and STOP!" He bellowed the last word to himself and heard a distant splash.

"You alright Sam?" came the distant voice of his master.

Cursing himself he shouted back.

"Yes'm Mister Frodo, I was just asking the rain to stop so's I could wash these things and hang them out for you. Nothing to worry about."

"Oh, good then." came Frodo's reply. "Are you coming in to wash my hair soon Sam? I don't want to wastl thl this wonderful hot water. I think my back could use a scrub too, if you don't mind."

Sam's throat tightened and he shook his head to clear his thoughts before answering.

"I'll be there right smart Mister Frodo. Don't you worry. Just soak a minute or two more and I'll be right along." Bellowed Sam back.

Shaking his head again and giving the slight lump in the front of his breeches a painful squeeze to put things to rights, Sam straightened himself and trundlff tff to the bathing room.

Breathing deeply, he pushed open the door and found his master lying submerged up to his chin. A smile escaped and spread across his lips as he studied his friend a few moments, stealing what he felt he
shouldn't have.

Frodo's face was so beautiful, more beautiful than a garden in bloom and even in some ways moreso than his Rosie. He studied the soft brown curls that framed the slender face. He admired the high
forehead and the delicate pointed ears. The eyebrows were soft like a lass' and the lids tinted slightly with the color of new rosebuds. Long, dark lashes lay on pale plump cheeks and the rosebud mouth
slightly open in relaxed repose. A soft round chin with it's slight dimple in the center finished off a face that inspired so many emotions in Sam.

He stood on the doorstep, his thoughts a tumbled confusion and feeling the heat rise in the depths of his body again. It pierced his hearth ath a feeling so exquisite that Sam almost cried out and he realized
what must be happening to him. Thoughts of how wrong it all was raced through his not so simple mind and tears welled up in his eyes. He blinked them away quickly, in case Frodo should open his eyes and
see his servant teary eyed and staring at him. Then, as Sam was about to rush from the room again, a clear quiet thought rose up inside him.

*To feel this joy can't be wrong.*

All Sam's fears melted away and the heat subsided slowly. He would just allow himself to feel whatever he was feeling and be assured that at least he knew he could have feelings like this. It would
pass in time, as Frodo found his own 'Rosie', which shouldn't take too long considering how so many of the hobbit lasses shined up to him when he went out walking with Masters Merry and Pippin. And then
the two could just be friends and he would tend to Mister Frodo's garden and they would still talk and walk about together. It would be fine.

With a sigh, Sam shuffled into the room and sat on the stool behind the head of the tub. As he sat, Frodo opened his eyes and gazed up him, the clear blue meeting the deep brown. They smiled at one
another before Frodo spoke.

"At last Sam!" came Frodo's soft voice. "I was wondering if you had fallen into the washtub yourself."

Sam ned ned at him and chuckled before picking up the small bucket, washcloth and soap that sat on the shelf above the tub.

"No sir." Sam said and laughed out loud. "I wouldn't do no such thing. What good would I be to you if I were drowned now?"

Frodo laughed along as Sam began dumping warm bath water over his curls and soaping them up into a rich lather. Spluttering slightly, Frodo shared in his friend's mirth until Sam sobered and wiped the
water from his eyes. Frodo looked gratefully up at his servant and friend then closed his mouth tightly for Sam to finish the job on his hair.

~*~

Soon Frodo's curly hair was clean and so was the rest of him, but Sam had avoided doing most of the washing himself and had enlisted his master's aid in that. Now, with fresh clean water in the tub and no
more mud on his master, Sam sat on his stool again ananedaned along the length of the tub. Sam's clothes were damp from all his ministrations and his shirt was opened to bare his chesth ath all it's own
curls. Frodo leaned his head on Sam's arm as Sam gave a gentle massage to his master's shoulders.

Shivery hot and cold waves began to slither over Sam's body as he rubbed his master's smooth skin. He was lost in thought as he gazed at Frodo's bare chest and the pink twin nubs on display. He could
feel his breeches tighten again and grimaced. Frodo noticed and looked up at him.

"Something wrong Sam?" said Frodo very softly, rubbing his cheek on the back of Sam's free hand.

"Uh, no Mister Frodo, just not a very crtabrtable position." came Sam's quick reply.

"Oh." Frodo said, his voice sounding odd.

Sam decided it was time to break this reverie. It wouldn't do for Frodo to see what was growing inside his breeches. Not unless he wanted to get himself fired or worse, rejected. He pushed himself up from
his perch and bustled about with the damp and dirty towels on the floor. Without turning, he spoke again.

"I'm guessing you've been in there a might too long Mister Frodo sir. And I'm sure you'll be wanting your supper. I'll just take these towels to the laundry and get those mushrooms and bacon started, shall
I?" he said awkwardly.

A small swish and splash behind him made him freeze, making the skin between his legs go cold and hot all at once. That sound could mean only one thing. Frodo had stood up from the water and would be
standing there in his birthday suit, wet and chilled. Sam held his breath and forced himself to continue to pick up the dirty linens.

"Sam?" came his masters sweet voice. "You are perfectly right. I am tired of being in this bath and I am awfully hungry, especially for the treat you'll be preparing for me. Could you hand me a towel or
two. I'm getting cold and I have to dry off."

Sam swallowed hard and gave himself a painful pinch in the pants before he turned with a warm clean towel for Frodo to dry himself with. As he did, he tried not to look at things he shouldn't look at, but it
was difficult to miss the slightly turgid member sticking out from his master's body. Confused on what that might mean and taking a deep breath, Sam quickly wrapped the large soft towel around Frodo and
rubbed at his shoulder's and torso roughly. A pained look flashed across his master's face and Sam stopped.

"Not so rough Samwise." said Frodo.

Sam began to make gentle rubbing motions over his master's upper body and Frodo laughed.

"And not so gentle either. I'll never get dry if you don't rub me down properly."

A look of sheer terror settled on Sam's face and he was almost certain that Frodo knew exactly what he was thinking. A loud knocking at the front door startled them both. Sam dropped the towel and
with a squeak ran from the room towards the entry.

"Sorrsterster Frodo. But I'd best get that." he bellowed over his shoulder as he raced gratefully for the door. "Never know who that might be."

The knock sounded again and a muffled voice could be heard from the other side of it.

"Let me in Cousin Frodo or Pippin and I will batter this door down without so much as a by your leave. It's pouring rain out here and we are soaking wet!" came the voice of Merry Brandybuck.

Sam flung open the door and practically dragged both younger hobbits inside. Both of them fell spluttering and dripping onto the mat and glared up at Sam as he stepped back, suddenly abashed at his
rash behavior.

"For mercies sake Sam, you don't have to be so rough." burbled Pippin grumpily.

"Sorry Master Took, I didn't mean no harm." came Sam's mumbled reply as he helped both hobbits to their feet. "I was just glad to see you and all."

Merry glanced at his cousins and then back at Sam. Removing their wet outer clothing to mask their words, they leaned in close to Sam and began to whisper.

"So, has he said or done anything yet to make you think he's going away somewhere?" asked Merry quickly.

Glancing around in the direction of the bathing room, Sam whispered back.

"Nothing of the sort Mister Brandybuck. In fact, despite him missing Bilbo, I think he's right settled here for the duration, if you get my meaning."

Both younger hobbits beamed at him and shoved their wet things into his waiting arms. Frodo emerged, wrapped in a deep blue robe and threw himself at his younger cousins. After joyful greetings
he bustled them into the parlor. As he did, he shot Sam a look over his shoulder, as Sam was hanging up the wet cloaks and hats. Sam caught the look and looked away, blushing. Frodo paused in the
doorway of the room.

"Thank you Sam, for all you've done today. And I guess you'd best set the table for four instead of two." said Frodo with a disappointed air.

Sam just stared at him as he went to join his cousins and wondered at his master's disappointment. With a shiver, he bumbled off to the kitchen to prepare the evening meal.

*****

*Sam fell on his knees, trembling. "Get up, Sam!" said Gandalf. "I have thought of something better than that. Something to shut your mouth, and punish you properly for listening. You shall go away with
Mr. Frodo!"

From THE FELLOWSHIP OF THE RING:SHADOW OF THE PAST*

Sam hated spying on Frodo but as the spring progressed the other conspirators had pushed him for more and more information on the comings and goings of his master. That had made things difficult for
Sam as for the last little while he had been avoiding much direct contract with Frodo. It hadn't been easy to do but Sam had felt it neccessary as he had found his feelings become even stronger and more confusing.

On more than one occasion Sam's loins had betrayed him in Frodo's presence, almost to disasterous discovery. The more affectionate and close Frodo seemed to want to get with Sam, the more Sam had
to push him away and beg off his company. He began to spend more and more time down at the Green Dragon in Bywater, listening to the likes of Ted Sandyman and his cohorts and drinking more ale
than was good for him. Oftentimes he would catch a hurt or confused look on Frodo's face after Sam would spurn his company. He knew his rejection was misunderstood but if Frodo had known the truth,
then Sam would have been shamed. He knew he couldn't face his master's rejection anymore than Frodo was able to face his. Things had grown strained between them and Sam's guilt over his spying
and his feelings was beginning to tell.

He was growing a bit careless in his spying and Frodo had almost caught him listening in at the window and peeking at his letters one time too many. One day Frodo had caught him looking at the papers on
his desk and had snapped at him. Sam winced with the remembered rebuke from Frodo, as he snipped away at the hedgerow beneath the parlour window.

*"What are you doing there Sam?" Frodo said as he spied Sam rustling through the paperwork on his desk.

"Nought Mister Frodo, I thought I saw...a ... spider and you know how them things can bite, so's I was just trying to find it...and kill it!" Stammered Sa
"
"Well, keep out of my personal papers in future and leave the spiders to me!" snapped Frodo. "Now get back to work, the garden's looking ragged and so are you. Tomorrow when you come in, make
sure you are sober and tidy!"

"Yes Mister Frodo ... I'm so sorry Mister Frodo ... won't happen again! I promise." said Sam almost in tears as he all but ran from the room.*

Sam sighed at the rememberance and shook his head. That scolding from Frodo had stung more than he wanted to admit. He had run all the way home and slammed into the house, nearly knocking his
Gaffer off his feet. He had then thrown himself into his room, kicking the door shut with his foot, and ignoring the bellows of his father. Sam had sobbed late into the night, soaking his pillow and berating
himself for his clumsiness, for his stupidity and for feelings that should never have existed. The next morning his father had looked at him queerly and told him that no matter if he hadn't reached his
majority quite yet it didn't give him cause to weep like he was still in his tweens. And all over some silly spat with Mister Frodo.

Sam had gazed wide eyed at his father, Ham, before he spoke. He asked his father how he had known it was about a fight with Frodo and old Ham Gamgee had told him that Frodo had stopped by to
apologize. He then told his son that Frodo had been mightily upset and wanted to make things right between the two of them, but Ham had stopped him, saying he would smooth things over and still allow
both of them to keep their pride. Sam's father had chuckled at this and told his son that some friendships were too big to be allowed to end over something so silly. He told his son to stop being so
sensitive and to get his things and back to work right sharp. With a silly grin, Sam had done just that and all had been fine between him and his master since, except for the growing emotions in his heart;
emotions that Sam continued to fight against.

And now Mister Gandalf was back, so that must mean something imporant. Gandalf hadn't been seen in the neighborhood for nigh on nine years and his sudden arrival had to mean something. Sam had
spied him knocking the night before as he peeked out his window toward's the Baggins house and promised himself to rush right over and get as close to any open windows as he could. Gandalf's return
could only mean one thing, that Frodo would be going away much like Bilbo had done all those years ago. He needed to get that information if he was going to report back properly to Merry, Pippin and Fatty.

But the windows had remained closed for most of the day, until now, as dusk settled over the Hill, the parlour window had been thrown open and he could hear the voice of his master and the old wizard.
He crept as near as he could to the hedge and with the occasional snip of his shears so as to make things sound right, he listened in on the conversation.

He didn't like what he was hearing. Mostly talk about some Gollum creature that had been where Mister Bilbo had got his ring and some other argy bargy about kings and elves. Then Mister Gandalf
had started the bad talk, all about great rings and evil kings and the land of Mordor which made Sam shiver painfully. And then it had come out. Gandalf had told Frodo he had to go away, take his magic
ring and leave the Shire and all his friends behind.

Sam's breathe stopped and his heart was struck with a pain as though it was shot through with an arrow. He couldn't believe it. Just as Merry and Pippin had said would happen some day. Sam
gasped and then before he knew it he was discovered. He tried to cover his real actions but there was no fooling a wizard and Sam hated to look at his master for fear of showing the pain in his eyes.

So he begged to be taken as Mister Frodo's servant and to see the elves, hoping that would mask the hurt he was feeling and that Mister Frodo would say yes and all. And then he got his wish, but it
brought him such pain and joy that he burst into tears right there in the parlour in front of Gandalf and Frodo together.

Gandalf put him down then and looked at him in a knowing way, but said nothing. The old wizard had patted him on the back several times, but had left the comforting to Frodo. And comfort him his master
did. Gandalf had excused himself, saying it was late and he wanted a breath of fresh air and Frodo had taken Sam to sit by the fire. Putting a warm arm around his shoulders he had whispered soothing
words in his ear.

"Shhh Sam. Don't fret. Gandalf won't hurt you and neither will I. I don't like you spying but I'm glad you are coming just the same. At least this way I won't be alone on the road. I'll have your laughter to
keep me company. Now just hush and don't be upset anymore." Said Frodo as he smiled.

Sam smiled back at him, wiping his tears from his face with the back of his hand. Frodo laughed at him and handed him his handkerchief. Drying his eyes he then put the kerchief to his nose and gave a
mighty blow. Frodo laughed out loud and clapped Sam on the back. The young gardner joined in and suddenly all the tension of the last few weeks melted away. They gazed at each other, their joy at each
other's company renewed. Then Frodo had ruffled a hand through Sam's light brown curls.

"Well now, that's at least settled, though I dare say we have much more planning to do in the next few weeks Sam my friend. So maybe you ought to get off to bed now and starting tomorrow we can begin.
What do you say to that?" Frodo said softly.

Sam's eyes shone as he gazed at his master and his usually tumultous thoughts grew clear.

* ... it don't matter what i feel so long as I'm with him ... he's the best hobbit I've ever known and i don't want to know no other ... don't matter what road we go on leastways I'll be with him ... and no more
spying for the consipracy no more neither ... they wouldn't mind so long as one of us goes with him and keeps him safe and who better than me ... I'm older than the others anway and i can keep a better eye
on him than most .... and we will be together ... that's what matters ... *

Sam smiled shyly at Frodo and then heaved himself to his feet. He made to hand back the soiled handkerchief, but they both laughed at that and Sam stuffed it into his pocket. He clapped Frodo on
the back and then gave him a quick hug before scampering out the door, almost tripping over Gandalf on his way. With a chagrined look at the wizard, he raced happily back to his home in Bagshot Row.

~*~

Three weeks passed while Gandalf lingered with Frodo and Sam, helping them make plans and telling them how to find Rivendell. The plans were made to move Frodo out of the Shire and into
Crickhollow the following September. Sam was kept busy discreetly gathering supplies while Frodo stayed close with the wizard. Then one day Frodo went to Sam and told him that Gandalf had to go
away on a bit of business but they were to keep making their plans. He instructed Sam to get a message to the Sackville-Bagginses that Bag End was finally going to be theirs for a reasonable price.
Sam had looked shocked at Frodo's request but then when his master grinned at him, he had shot off wearing a blush on his plain hobbit features.

Frodo sighed, his mood melacholy. On the one hand he was sad that he had to leave his beloved Bag End and the Shire, but on the other he was overjoyed that Sam was coming with him. He had never
enjoyed any other hobbit's company as much as he enjoyed Sam's. Unless it were his cousins Pippin and Merry, but was was different. His feelings for them were purely platonic. That made him think of
his self admission three weeks ago.

On the night that Gandalf had discovered Sam lurking outside the window and 'punished' him by sending him on this dangerous journey with his master, Frodo had come to a decision. He could no
longer deny his feelings for Sam and what they meant. He had secretly come to the conclusion that Sam was more than just a close friend and servant. He had thought long and hard about all his
reactions and feelings towards the younger hobbit and decided that it was something more. He knew it might be wrong in many respectable hobbit circles, but Frodo, like his uncle before him, had never
really been one to be conventional.

It had been a difficult choice to decide that he loved Sam Gamgee and an even more difficult one to know that he could never express his feelings in just that way. He did wonder at Sam's reaction to him
sometimes and shrugged it off as Sam sensing what his master was feeling towards him. All that mattered to Frodo was that he and Sam would be together. He had never before felt such joy as this,
though it was tinged with regret. But for Frodo it would be enough.

He sighed and waited for Sam to return from his errand at the Sackville-Bagginses. Then they could begin to pack in earnest. He grew restless as time passed and eventually he heaved himself from his
chair and gathered up his cloak and walking stick from beside the door. He had decided a bit of fresh air was in order. He opened the door and was surprised to find Merry and Pippin standing on the mat,
their hands raised to knock.

"Well, this is unexpected my young hobbits!" beamed Frodo, as always glad to see his younger cousins. "I was just going to take a short walk. Sam's gone out on an errand and I got tired of waiting. Care to
join me?"

Merry and Pippin beamed at him and reached to pull him from the house. Taking his arm through his own, Merry marched Frodo through his front gate, calling over his shoulder to the youngest cousin Pippin.

"Get the door will you Pip? Can't have Sam coming back to find Frodo's front door wide open. He'll think he's been spirited away."

"Right-o Merry." trilled Pippin and with a slam to Frodo's front door, he raced to catch up with the other two.

Frodo sighed to himself as he stepped out with his young cousins.

"How I shall miss these unexpected walks when I'm gone." he whispered under his breathe.

He didn't catch the look that passed between Merry and Pippin as he took both of them by the arm and they marched off into the afternoon.

*****

*"Rivendell!" said Frodo, "Very good: I will go east, and I will make for Rivendell. I will take Sam to visit the Elves; he will be delighted."

From THE FELLOWSHIP OF THE RING:THREE IS COMPANY*

Sam had been back at Frodo's for hours, and upon finding the place empty had begun to worry almost immediately. He grew afraid that Frodo might have gone off without him, but kept reassuring himself
that his master wouldn't do that. It would spoil their secret plans and above all else, Frodo wouldn't do that. Finally, as the supper hour came and went, and Sams' belly growled it's displeasure at being left
empty for so long, he decided to make himself a bite to eat.

Taking himself into the pantry, he gazed around at the walls of Frodo's larder, trying to decide what to make. There were smoked hams, three dozen eggs, strings of sausages, cabbages by the dozen,
bushels of potatoes and apples, roughly tied bundles of carrots and onions, neatly braided strings of beets, rashers of bacon hanging from hooks, a basket of strawberries, some early blueberries and of
course tubs of butter, honey and many loaves of fresh bread. Sam drooled at the sight but as always his eyes strayed to the doorway to the cellar where Frodo kept his beer and wine.

*... perhaps I'll just have some beer to get my juices flowing and then I'll know what it is my belly longs for ... what do you mean sam you know what your belly - or at least your heart anyways - longs for and
it's not food ... but put that out o' your mind and feed yourself ... if you and mister frodo are to be friends then you best keep that in mind .. food is all you'll get so take it and be glad ... *

Sam shook himself and stumbled towards the cellar and the heady aroma of hops and malt. Licking his lips he reached up to the shelf just inside the doorway where Frodo kept his mugs and he eyed the
short row of gleaming barrels with their polished spouts. His feet pattered softly over the tiled floor as he approached the first barrel where he knew the dark ale was kept. Anticipation made him quiver as
his plump hand carressed the pump handle and he pulled gently to allow the dark, foamy liquid fill his mug. Unbidden thoughts of Frodo came to his mind just then and his hand jerked away spilling ale all
over the tile. With a curse he flipped the spout closed and set the mug aside.

He sighed and went to the back of the room to retrieve the rags there that were reserved for mopping up such spills. He got down on his knees and berated himself under his breath as he soaked up the
precious ale with the rags. So absorbed was he in his task that he didn't hear the front door open and close, nor the sound of intoxicated voices calling goodnights. He didn't hear the door slam shut and he
certainly didn't hear the light patter of hobbit feet staggering in his direction. He didn't even hear the soft sound of breathy singing. And so he was startled when he finally raised his head and began to rise from
the ale dampened floor to find Frodo staring at him from the doorway.

Sam jumped as he spoke.

"Oi, Mister Frodo. You did give me a fright there for a moment. I didn't hear you come in and I was just getting a small mug to settle me down, as I was right worried about where you'd go to and ..." Sam
began but his voice trailed off as he observed his master.

Frodo was weaving to and fro slightly, his eyes with a dreamy, strange look as he stoherehere watching Sam. Sam stepped towards him, concerned and as he reached his master, he realized what the
problem was.

"You're drunk you are Mister Frodo!" said Sam in shock.

He had never seen his master even tipsy in all the time he had known him, not even at Bilbo's going away party and he was surprised and suddenly nervous again. It had been a while since he had felt
nervous in his master's presence but the way Frodo was gazing at him and the state of him was enough to make Sam uneasy. It would be too easy for something wrong to happen between him and Frodo,
with Frodo in this state. He was an affectionate hobbit and Sam didn't know if he had the willpower to resist any such affection tonight, nor any other night.

Sam cautiously put his arm around Frodo's shoulders and led him to the parlour, where a merry fire was burning. Frodo still hadn't spoken but Sam could see that something was on his mind. His
master's eyes were so expressive and he could not avoid the naked emotion in the older hobbit's eyes tonight. He pushed some cusions onto the floor to be nearer the fire and gently sat Frodo down on
them. Frodo put out his hands and pulled Sam down beside him. The young gardner could see that his master had something to say and settled himself close, but not too close. He squirmed slightly as he
tried to pull his hands from Frodo's but his master's grip was too strong and obviously he didn't want to break contact.

Sam tried not to let his feelings betray him as he sat with Frodo in the firelight, holding hands and looking expectantly into his master's lumiously beautiful eyes. Finally Frodo spoke, his voice soft and
slightly slurred.

"I'm sorry Sam." began Frodo. "I went out with Merry and Pippin this afternoon and we ended up at the Green Dragon all hot and thirsty. I guess I didn't realize how thirsty until I started to come home
and discovered how difficult it was to walk. I leaned on Merry and Pip most of the way back. I hope I didn't worry you, not leaving a note and all, but I kept expecting you to come into the Dragon yourself.
But you never did." finished Frodo sorrowfully.

Sam's heart wrenched, seeing the sad look on his master's face. He knew how much he loved the Shire and how much he was dreading going, though Frodo had never actually said much about it. It
seemed the ale had loosened Frodo's tongue and heart. He was about to reply when Frodo spoke again.

"No Sam, you never came, my faithful and loving Sam." continued Frodo breathily. "And I was sad. So sad not to see your handsome face. And it is handsome Sam. No wonder Rosie finds it so dear, as
I find it dear. You are dear to me Sam. Very very very ... very dear."

Sam looked with wonder at his master as his insides filled up with butterflies. The younger hobbit's thoughts were roiling much more than his stomach.

* ... what is mister frodo talking about ... my face handsome ...dear to him ... very dear to him... must be the drink talking ... he can't be talking about the same way rosie cotton feels for me ... he just can't
... that wouldn't be right proper and just not true... he must mean something else...but i surely wish he wouldn't say such things ... not with me feelin' like I do ... *

Frodo's eyes had filled with tears and they glistened in the firelight as he leaned in close to Sam's ear. Releasing one of the young gardener's hands, he reached up and stroked his cheek. Sam quivered and
Frodo shook himself, looking concerned at his friend.

"Are you cold Sam or just afraid?" whispered Frodo. "Here, let me warm you. You are are always doing for me, but let me do for you, since I'm the one taking you away from your home and into what
could be danger. For the world is a dangerous place outside the Shire you know Sam my lad. But I am forever grateful that you are coming with me. And I shall take you to see the Elves as you have
always wished. I just hope you aren't disappointed in what you find for Elves are never what we imagine them to be."

Frodo pulled Sam closer then and tears began to fall from his bright blue eyes. Sam's own eyes welled up and he could see that his master was afraid. It was impossible for him not feel sorry for the older
hobbit in what must be a most difficult decision. He took his master's hands in his own and tried to comfort his friend.

"Don't you worry none about that Mister Frodo. I want to with you. Someone has to go along and do for you and make sure you eat proper and all. And as for Elves, well, I'm looking forward to seeing
them and finding out myself about what they're like or not like as the case may be. But it will be fine Mister Frodo, don't you worry yourself on that score." said Sam soothingly.

And then on impulse, Sam leaned in to kiss his master on the forehead, just in frienship and for comfort. But Frodo had ideas of his own and turned his face up to meet his young friend's. Their lips met, tears
spilling down their cheeks and leaving salty trails over their mouths. And it was as if it was the most natural thing in the world. Neither hobbit pulled away as they began to kiss softly and slowly, with
many delicate forays with tongues and teeth. Both trembled with repressed joy and excitement, but neither stopped nor spoke, but let only their lips speak for them. Their arms slipped around each other
and they embraced, even as each kiss found a home. Their tears flowed freely but not in hurt or suffering. This was joy and bliss and everlasting love born again. They stayed this way until dawn
began to peek over the horizon and the last embers of the fire winked out.

It was then and only then, did the two hobbits part. They gazed long at each other, wiping the drying tears from each others cheeks, eyes clear and knowing. Finally, with a soft caress to Sam's brow,
Frodo spoke.

"Well Sam," he said soberly. "I hope that what this night has meant to me is what it means to you. I don't think you are angry or offended, or you would not have allowed any of this to happen. Tell me
Sam, what are you thinking behind those serious brown eyes of yours?"

Sam swallowed hard before answering, but his gazed never left Frodo's face.

"I know it ain't right Mister Frodo -" Sam began, but Frodo stopped him.

"Sam, I think now you can call me just 'Frodo', at least in private. Don't you?" smiled the older hobbit.

Sam blushed and grinned b

"Right, Frodo." Sam continued shyly. "I know what we done ain't right in most hobbit circles and I knows my Gaffer nor Rosie Cotton, nor neither your Mister Pippin and Mister Merry and Mister Fatty
wouldn't approve none, nor I think your Mister Bilbo neither, but I can't rightly say it feels wrong to me. I knows as some does this, or leastways that nasty Ted Sandyman says so in a right dirty voice too if
you don't mind me saying, but I never thought that you and me would ever feel such things. I'm most confused because of Rosie you see. I do care for the lass and I do mean to marry her but I know that I
don't love her like I should ... Frodo."

Sam looked away, bashful and his eyes tearing up again. But Frodo cupped his cheek in his hand and turned him to face him again. Sam saw understanding and more in his eyes.

"Who do you love, Sam." came Frodo's voice like the sound of a summer breeze through the trees.

"I love you Mister ... I love you Frodo." came Sam's tortured reply, and he burst into tears again.

Frodo's heart swelled like a burst of fireworks as Sam declared himself to him, but then he pulled his friend and love into his arms, comforting him as best he could.

"There Sam, don't weep so. I don't care if it's wrong, because you have it right. How can something that fills us with such joy feel so wrong? And Sam, I need you to look at me, now." said Frodo gently.

Sam raised his head and looked teary eyed at him. Sweeping away tears with his thumbs, Frodo smiled at Sam.

"I love you too Samwise Gamgee and may all who condemn us tell us how this joy could be wrong. I dare them all." He said, his eyes shining.

Sam flung himself into Frodo's arms. The two sat there embracing for long moments, enjoying the bliss of their love. But a knock on the door broke them apart. Quickly they released each other and with a
knowing loeganegan to straighten the parlour and themselves. The knocking continued as they had a whispered and hurried conversation.

"We'd best keep this quiet Frodo, if I may speak plain." Came Sam's rushed reply as he began tossing cushions back onto the sofa's and chairs.

"I agree Sam, at least until we've left the Shire and can be alone properly, we shall be very discreet. And we can be, can't we my l" F" Frodo whispered lovingly.


Sam grinned and blushed but nodded his head. The knocking at the door became a pounding and voices were now heard bellowing on the doorstep.

"For mercies sake Frodo Baggins, why is it always so hard to get into your house?" came the youthfull roar of Pippin Took. "You'd think you were hiding something!"

Both Sam and Frodo shared a smirk between them as Sam rushed to the door and Frodo ran to put the kettle on.

*****

*He took his own tea with Pippin and Sam Gamgee in the kitchen. It had been officially announced tSam Sam was coming to Buckland 'to do for Mr. Frodo and look after his bit of garden': an
arrangement that was approved by the Gaffer, ...

From THE FELLOWSHIP OF THE RING:THREE IS COMPANY*

It was finally time for them to leave Bag End. Lobelia had come and gone with her usual bad temper and Frodo was just waiting for Pippin and Sam to return so they could set off. Frodo was feeling guilty
towards his cousin at the moment as he had not been very pleasant to him the last couple of weeks. He and Merry had been around constantly, making it very difficult for he and Sam to be alone. He had
nearly bitten Pippin's head off this morning after a frustrating evening of he and Sam attempting to enjoy each other's company on their last night in a warm bed. They both knew that warm comfortable beds
would be hard to find on the road they were on, at least until they got to Bree and then Rivendell. Frodo did not relish the thought of the two of them making love on the open roads ben
en
Crickhollow and Bree, though Sam didn't seem all that bothered. But thoughts of loving with Sam flooded Frodo's head all the same, ever since they had finally consummated things a week before his and Bilbo's birthday.

They had been inching towards greater intimacy since the night when he had come home drunk and they had kissed until morning. Both hobbits were very aware of the physical attraction they each held
for each other, as well as the emotional and spiritual bond that grew more every day. But the physical desires that were growing were the more immediate and more embarrassing.

Both he and Sam had to fight to keep their hands off each other wherever they went and after a slightly tipsy evening at the Green Dragon, they had to be extra careful. Both had caught Ted Sandyman giving
them nasty curious looks, and they realized that their physical affection had become too intimate with Frodo stroking Sam's arm as they stood at the bar drinking ale and Sam leaving his hand on Frodo's
knee for an extended squeeze as they sat in the corner laughing at the jokes of their contemporaries. After that, they had been extra vigilant.

But eventually, they could contain themselves no longer and just a week ago, things had gone from mild groping in the dark before separating for bed to the final step of expressing their love in a more
passionate and intimate way.

~ One Week Earlier ~

Sam had just pushed Pippin and Merry out the door to go about the errands that Frodo had set them. They had tried to pull him along with them, saying they needed more information and that Sam had been
rather close with his reports. But Sad iad insisted that there was nothing more to tell and they had best be on about their chores.

"But Sam, you haven't given us any news for ages!" whined Pippin.

A smack from Merry along the ear made his younger cousin jump and whimper in surprise.

"Now Pip, don't whine. You're too old for that nonsense." snapped Merry, then turning on Sam. "But cousin Pippin is right Sam. We've not anything new from you for too long and the time is drawing near.
When and where is Frodo going?"

Sam blushed and hung his head a moment before he glared up at them.

"All right then. I'll see if I can get something out of him today, but you too best stay out of things. Take yourself off to Bywater for the evening and don't come back till tomorrow and I promise to have
something for you then! He's not so close when the two of you aren't around." Whispered Sam urgently.

The two younger hobbits glanced at each other and then back at Sam. After considering him for a moment, they smiled and in too cheerful and overly loud voices they made clear their plans.

"Right then Pippin. Off we go and if you help me finish early it's a stay at the Green Dragon in Bywater for the night. All the ale you can drink and you can buy the supper!" bellowed Merry.

"That sounds like a grand idea Merry!" bellowed Pippin with a wink to his co-conspirators. "Let's hurry off and hope we can sort things out early enough to start at tea time!"

With a giggle from both of them, they bustled off and around the end of the hill. Sam stood watching them go, trembling with anticipation at having his love to himself for the evening. He didn't hear Frodo
approach on silent feet and didn't know he was there until he startled him by speaking. Sam whirled around, almost tripping over the mat and falling into Frodo's arms.

"An excellent plan I must say Sam." grinned Frodo as he grabbed Sam by the hand and pulled him inside. "How did you ever get them to agree?"

Sam blushed and grinned at his friend as he pushed the door shut behind him.

"Well, you know how they like their ale and with a promise of a nice supper next week on your's and Mister Bilbo's birthday, they would agree to anything." said Sam, his voice warm with emotion.

Frodo fluttered his eyelashes at Sam and they both giggled, falling into each other's arms for a quick cuddle and a kiss. They didn't stay that way for long, for they truly did have chores to do.

~*~

The two spent the day in eager anticipation of a long night alone between them, having to repeat chores around the house as they got mixed up in their excitement. The garden was suffering but Sam didn't
have the inclination to do much about it, so enthralled was he of the impending evening. Frodo broke three bottles of good wine as he allowed himself to become too thrilled with need and desire. Finally,
the day wore on towards evening and after devouring the supper they made together, Frodo disappeared, while Sam did the dishes.

After a short while, just as Sam was putting away the crockery, Frodo returned to kitchen dressed only in his blue robe and smelling of scented oil. He smiled warmly at Sam and the younger hobbit flushed
to his toes as he gazed lovingly at his friend. Frodo said nothing as he took him by the hand and led him to the bathing room, where he had drawn a bath.

There, he gently undressed his young love, occasionally planting soft kisses on each bared body part, even one on his plump hobbit bottom, which made Sam giggle. Then, when Sam was completely nude,
Frodo bade him lie down on a soft cot in the corner that had been overlaid with comfy towels. Sam did as he was told and lay down on his belly, arms pillowing his head. He waited, breathless as Frodo
bustled around the room, testing the temperature of the tub filled with water and finally taking a small clay jar filled with rose scented oil.

Sam lay still and expectant as he awaited his lover's touch and was thrilled when he felt a trickle of warm oil poured over his shoulders and back followed by Frodo's warm, soft hands. Tenderly, he
massaged Sam's neck, arms and back as Sam lay there soaking up every moment of his master's touch. He could feel his member stiffening as Frodo worked his hands over the small of his back and along his
buttocks. Bore ore than arousing it was simply soothing and wonderful to have his friends loving touch upon his body. Finally Frodo spoke, as he let his hands rest on the soft mounds of his behind.

"And how does all this feel Samwise, my love?" came Frodo's soft, lovely voice. "You have such a sweet body, the perfect hobbit body I would say. And I do dearly want to love every inch of it."

Frodo leaned down and planted a slightly wet kiss between Sam's shoulder blades, his mouth lingering and then moving lower as Sam moaned his approval. Frodo made soft pleasurable noises in his throat
as he trailed his tongue and lips down his friend's spine to his buttocks. Nipping softly he laughed at Sam's reaction and patted him back onto the cot.

"Sorry Sam." chuckled Frodo. "I was just being playful. We can't let ourselves get too serious, as that would be a shame."

Sam turned his head to gaze wistfully at Frodo with one deep brown eye.

"I don't mind playful Frodo my love, but you bite me again and I'll show you I'm no pushover." Said Sam with a wicked grin.

"I think I can make you a pushover Sam. I am older after all." grinned Frodo, pinching lightly at Sam's behind.

Grabbing his hand, Sam flipped himself over and pulled Frodo down on top of him.

"You may be older, but I am the more experienced in this way, leastways with hobbit lasses and I can't sees that it's too much different." said Sam, gazing into Frodo's eyes with mischief.

Both hobbits stared at each other for a moment, realizing that there was very little separating their nude and aroused bodies and that Frodo was lying full length on Sam. They both began to laugh a little then
and Frodo to struggle with the stronger Sam. But his struggles only succeeded in toppling the cot over and both of them landin thn the flagstone floor of the bathing room. They landed with a thud, Sam
slightly on top of Frodo and knocking the breath out of him. Laughing hard they untangled themselves and scrambled for the bath.

With splashes and cries of delight at the soothing heat of the water, the settled into each other's arms face to face. For a few moments they gazed lovingly at each other before tears welled up in Frodo's
eyes. Sam's face wore a look of concern as he reached up to stroke the trickle of tears away.

"What is it Frodo?" queried Sam softly. "Why are you so teary eyed? We're together now."

"I know Sam, I know, but ..." he sniffled as his voice trailed off.

He looked away and bit his lip. Sam took his cheek in his hand and turned his face back to his own. He studied the worried look in his love's eyes and then leaned in to kiss him softly. Sam's lips lingered
over the sweetness of Frodo's, taking first his top lip and then his bottom between his own. He flickered his tongue over the warm, plump flesh and then slowly pressed the tip between the soft lips of
his lover.

A feeling like after a thunderstorm flickered over Frodo's skin as his Sam invaded his mouth with his tongue. He slid his arms tighter around the young gardener's's torso, pulling him closer, wanting to feel
his sturdy, wooly chest against his own smooth one. Sam responded by lifting him slightly in his strong arms and fitting him gently into the cup of his lap. Frodo could feel Sam's hardness press against his
buttocks, as his own aroused member bumped against Sam's belly. A low moan traveled from the younger hobbit's throat and into Frodo's mouth as he felt him press against him. Their tongues tussled
with each other as their kiss became more passionate, reflecting the rising desires in their bodies.

Sam reached beneath the water to grasp his dearest love in his strong, tender grip, but Frodo stopped him and pulled away from the kiss. Sitting astride Sam's lap he gazed tenderly into his lover's eyes and
brushed his dampening curls away from his brow. Sam smiled up at him, joy turning his simple hobbit features into a thing of beauty even the elves could not deny. Frodo smiled back at him and cupped his cheek.

"My Samwise, oh my Sam." murmured Frodo. "If things are to go farther, we should get out of this tub or we'll have the place flooded in no time flat."

"And it would probably run right out the front door and then what would the neighbors think?" grinned Sam, laughing with delight and nervous excitement.

Frodo laughed with him as he began to disengage himself from the younger hobbit's arms. Sam released him with great reluctance, but then held his arm as Frodo stepped out of the tub. He couldn't
look away from his master's lovely aroused body, and marveled to himself that he could gaze so easily and with such pleasure on a sight that mere weeks ago filled him with fear and sorrow.

* ... how could you be so dense samwise ... how could you ever be ashamed of looking at Frodo's beautiful body like this ... foolish hobbit ... it don't make no mind what other's say ... you have a joy so
much bigger than the shire and even more lovely ... long's no-one's the wiser and you don't mean to let that happen no matter what ... just look at him ... he's a rare hobbit he is .. and he's yours ... *

Frodo grabbed a towel and turned to help Sam out of the tub when he caught his young love gazing at him with unabashed love and desire. Their eyes met and a sweet smile passed between them, then
Frodo reached out his hand, beckoning Sam to disembark their watery trysting place.

The young gardener took his master's hand and stepped gingerly out onto the cool flagstones. Frodo immediately wrapped the two of them in a large towel and they began to dry each other off in slow
loving motions. Finally, when their skin was merely damp, Frodo took Sam by the hand and led him naked and trembling from the bathing room and into the master bedroom. There, the bed had been
turned down and the sheets warmed. Turning to Sam, Frodo stroked his love's shoulder softly.

"Do you love me Sam? Can you say it to me?" asked Frodo in his soft voice.

"I do love you Frodo, and will till all things come to an end and even then I'll still love you." said Sam shyly in return.

And I love you, Samwise, now and forever." Frodo whispered quietly.

Both hobbits let their words sink in, waiting for the other to make the first move. Sam finally broke their reverie and led Frodo to the bed. He pulled back the sheets and gestured for Frodo to slip
underneath. He did, sliding over to the other side so that Sam could get in beside him. When the younger hobbit had pulled the covers up over them and snuggled up close, Sam began to rain soft
kisses down on Frodo's ears and throat. He sighed with contentment and great pleasure as his young lover kissed him lower and lower, pausing at his throat to tongue the indent at his collar bones. Sam's
hands began to roam beneath the sheets on the new territory of Frodo's silken skin. The older hobbit lightly ran his fingertips along the flesh of Sam's back, as his lover placed his mouth over one slightly
turgid nipple. As Sam suckled, breathy moans began to escape from Frodo's mouth and his hands tangled in his light brown curls.

The young gardener's's hands moved into the still damp curls above his love's member and combed his fingers through them. Sam moved his mouth to Frodo's other nipple, leaving the first dark rosy red and
wet, while his hand once again grasped the now full erection sporting from his lover's loins. A soft gasp from the older hobbit stopped him and he looked up into his lover's face.

"Everything alright Frodo?" Sam asked concernedly.

Frodo took a moment before replying, struggling to get his breath back.

"Yes Sam my love, everything is fine but, how and where did you learn to do all this?" came Frodo's breathy reply.

"I ain't just been courting Rosie Cotton you know Frodo." chuckled Sam. "I mean, I ain't no Brandybuck when it comes to the lasses but I'm no Baggins neither!"

Frodo stared at Sam, wide-eyed for a moment then laughed deep in his throat.

"I guess you haven't been all that much like us bachelor Baggins' have you Sam? Well then, show me what else you've learned."

With a grin Sam did just that, as he continued his loving ministrations. They spent a long night exploring and when the moment came for Frodo to give to Sam the ultimate intimacy, there was no holding back
their passion and love. And when it came time for Sam to give up to Frodo, there was only love and warmth and desire.

After they had finished their nightlong love making, they lay in each other's arms, spent and overjoyed. The dawn was only a couple of hours away and they knew that this would possibly be their last chance
to have this, so they put off sleep to savor it and save it for when there was no time for loving like this at all.

Sam's head was pillowed on Frodo's chest, his smooth cheek pressed to smooth skin, and Frodo's hands were idly running through Sam's curls. For a while they said nothing, then Sam found his voice.

"Frodo?" he asked, quietly.

"Yes Sam."

"I wish -" began Sam, but Frodo cut him off.

"Hush! Don't wish for things, just take what we are given and it will be enough!" said Frodo, tears in his voice.

Sam turned his head to look up at the shining face of his love and they shared a knowing look, a look that said everything that needed to be said. After a moment, Sam put his head back down over
Frodo's heart and began to drowse. Frodo lay there for a long time after, holding his Sam and just listening to their hearts beating in unison.

EPILOGUE

And so began one of the greatest love stories of middle-earth. A love that ran deeper than the mines of Moria and higher than the highest summit of Caradhras Galadhon. It gave them warmth in the coldest
places, brought them light in the darkness and saved them from death. And though few knew of it's existence, it was cherished by two for all of their lives.

Continued in SMALL MERCIES