A nervousness hung about the man as he fiddled with his clothes. They were fine, but also fitting for the ride Prince and Ranger were soon to undertake. He had not discussed details with Legolas' father beyond the offhand posing of his question for slight fear of pressing the subject. The Elvenking was not one the Dúnadan would press even in his most bold of moods. So, he had put this little trip together in secret. (Cont)
Legolas and he were to ride out for a short hunt; however, if all went as he dearly hoped, it would not be a hint at all. In his mind the scene was to be set by a campfire, just the two of them, at the bank of the river on their first night out. He hoped he would be able to catch a nice meal befitting of the Prince and he would cook it over a fire. Then they would talk and drink while they ate, but just before they wine was drawn from their pack Aragorn would take Legolas' hand. (Cont.)
He could picture himself then his palm sweating profusely as he tried to muster the words he had rehearsed. And it would be then that he would ask for the Prince's hand. However, his dream was cut by the sound of a door creeping open and near silent steps entering the room. His breath stuck in his throat as the ranger turned to meet the gaze of the very object of his affections. A nerve twisted smile lie upon his lips as he greeted the elf. (Cont.)
"You are here early. We planned not to set out for a short while yet, had we not?"
The man as unusually tense, Legolas noted. It was unlike Aragorn to be so nervous and jumpy almost, the prince felt reminded of the youth he had been with. Back then, young Estel was timid and affection he had felt for Legolas had caused his throat to be tied and his feet to carry him to Legoals-free safety. Of course, it could also be his father who caused this. The King spared Aragorn no angry glances, though Legolas worried not for he knew his father valued his happiness over the fact that Aragorn was not the suitor he had in mind for the prince.In fact, Aragorn was most likely not the suitor anyone had in mind for the prince.But things were calm, their relationship had progressed finely, there was mutual trust and understanding and Legolas rarely felt so comfortable with someone who was no member of his family.Legolas was unable to mask his amusement. "Early indeed, my apologies." A calming hand was settled on the man's shoulder. "I came to tell you, that the horses are ready."