I believe that Leoffrith is going to stay for the winter. He had been undecided on it for some time, and I confess, I was selfishly worried that he would, indeed, depart and never be seen here again. I don't think many of the folk around Bree realize what it means to me, when I run into someone from home. I suppose it holds a particular importance to me, because of the loss of my place with my own family there, as well as the loss of Lainric, so long ago. Oh, I know, there are others of Rohan scattered here and there, like Seaver and Inayat, but they have their own lives and families and things to tend to. And I was happy to think I might have a kinsman who could work beside me and possibly become a friend.
Today has taught me to hope once more. Leoffrith sought me at the stables as I was working, to ask me about a few new acquaintances of his that were inquiring about horses. Amid the pleasantries of that conversation, he let slip his curiosity about how I had learned to use a sword, and how I had come to Bree to begin with.
I had not spoken of any of these things in so long. Of course, everyone who knows me at all around Bree, already knows these tales, so I have not been asked to repeat them until today. Perhaps I should have expected that speaking of my parents, and of Lainric, would reduce me to tears, but for whatever reason, I plunged ahead with it anyway. I felt dizzy and breathless to recall Lainric, especially.
To his credit, Leoffrith showed immense kindness and sympathy, when he saw how the retelling of these stories affected me. In hindsight, the sorrow was perhaps worth it, for I feel as though he and I have begun the forging of a genuine friendship. He shared more of his own tale, and I count it an honor that I could listen, and hopefully offer him some comfort and encouragement in turn. He seems to think himself of little value in the world, but I know now that he is kind - very kind - and honorable, and that alone counts for much more than titles and renown. At least to me.
We spoke again of Sareva, and shared that we had both made orders of various kinds from her shop. I did not tease him about her! Though he seemed pleased as punch to announce he was going to have fur-lined boots for his first northern winter. I still need to visit her and discuss the surprise that I'd asked for!
My husband and I are planning to visit the hobbit harvest festival in the Shire over the next few days. Any excuse to go back to our favorite haunt, I suppose! I hope he'll dance with me. He used to be so staunchly against any sort of light-hearted fun, but I must say, he's softened up considerably over the time I've known him.
