Love Is Not Exclusive

A Third

Elrond wove through the crowd. It was a celebration for the safe return of the Fellowship. Well, most of the Fellowship. They had held a proper mourning ceremony for Boromir the previous day. But now was a happier celebration, and Elrond found it difficult to find his way through all the joyous partygoers.  He finally caught sight if the Man and Elf he was looking for.

Legolas and Aragorn were standing by themselves - well not really; they were surrounded by people - and chatting. Aragorn was inviting his friend to his and Arwen's wedding. He thought he saw a flicker of sadness in Legolas' eyes, but the Elf accepted the offer. It was then that Elrond appeared, wishing to speak with the two.

"What is it, Adar {Father}?" Aragorn asked.

"I have already spoken of this to Arwen and she has agreed of you will," Elrond said.

"What?"

"You two are going to marry. But what will happen to her once you have died? Aragorn, she is an Elf. She will fade from grief. And so I had a proposal. If you take another mate, another Elf, she will have someone to rely on once you are gone. I do not want you to think anything else of this other than a way to help my daughter."

Aragorn smiled in understanding, "Of course, Adar. Did you have anyone in mind?"

Elrond turned to Legolas, "That is where you come in, my Prince. Arwen suggested you be the third."

Legolas visibly paled, "Me?"

"That makes sense," Aragorn agreed. "He is a dear friend and brother to us both. It would be easy to form a bond. But are you willing, Legolas?

Legolas looked at his long time friend and the object of his affections. In truth, Legolas would love to bond with Aragorn. But his sole purpose would be to keep Arwen alive after Aragorn's death, not to love Aragorn. But he loved Arwen, too - as a sister - and did not want her to fade after her love died. So he smiled at his beloved Aragorn and then Lord Elrond.

"Of course. You are as my brother and sister. I would not see either of your hurt in such a way," Legolas said in acceptance to Elrond's plan.

Aragorn smiled and hugged his friend, "Hannon lle {Thank you}, Legolas."

"Mae govannen {Well met}, Aragorn," Legolas replied.

They parted and Elrond led then to where Arwen waited. She embraced Legolas and kissed his cheek. He kissed her forehead. The three sat together for the rest of the night. They talked and drank. But Legolas felt doubt growing steadily in his heart. Doubt that he would be able to be bonded with Aragorn and Arwen and keep his feelings secret. The bond would allow the three to feel each other's emotions. They would be able to sense distress, irritation, happiness, sadness, hate, and love whenever one in the bond was feeling it. It frightened Legolas to know that he may not be able to conceal his love for Aragorn once they were bonded.