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and found someone waiting nervously outside
the door.
March Warden?
Happy Yuletide, Eowyn, said Haldir, placing his
hand upon his heart and bowing his head.
Curious, Eowyn returned his greeting, asking, Are you
coming inside?and adding, very softly, when she
saw the expression on his face, Cyllien is resting.
She nodded towards the bedchamber door.
Haldir smiled gratefully, but shook his head. It was
you I wanted to speak to, he said. Privately. And
I wanted to give you thisI do have a joint gift for you
and Legolas, and gifts for the others, but thisthis is
just for you, Eowyna thank you.
Eowyn took the tiny parcel. For what?
For being kind and patient with a very foolish elf.
Haldir
I will always love you, Eowyn, butwith your helpI
have learned that it is possible to love two womento love
them in different ways.
I did not help you realise that, Haldir,
said Eowyn. It is your lady who,she smiledshe
has mended your heart. Will both of you not join us?
Again, Haldir shook his head. We are still learning to
be alone together, he said. And he smiled.
Well, when Yule is over, and you are both ready, you
must bring her to dine with Legolas and me. Just us four. For
I am sure that she and I will be friends.
Thank you. I am sure you will. He glanced towards
the bedchamber. She does know about you, and about Cyllien.
That is good.
Haldir nodded, a little awkwardly. Then, Well
Are
you going to open your present?
Eowyn smiled up at him, Yes. Carefully, she pulled
open the wrapping and, with fingers and thumb, lifted out the
tiny, delicate gift. A broochitoh Haldir,
it is Brightstar! Smiling broadly now, she pinned
the jet horse to her breast. It is beautiful. Thank
you! And she came up on tip-toe, and kissed his cheek.
Mellon nín.
I am glad you like it
They gazed at each other for a long moment. Then Haldir said,
I must go.
Yes, said Eowyn. Say Happy Yuletide to your
lady for me.
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