Aralas Oneshots

A very hard decision: part 2

As Aragorn sat in the garden, awaiting Arwen's arrival, he couldn't help but notice the way the sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting dappled patterns on the ground. It was a serene moment, but beneath the calm exterior, his mind buzzed with anticipation and a touch of apprehension.

When Arwen finally appeared, her smile brighter than the sun itself, carrying a basket of treats, Aragorn felt a pang of guilt for what he was about to say. Nevertheless, he greeted her warmly, accepting the tea and biscuits with gratitude as they settled on a bench nearby.

After a few sips of tea and some hesitant nibbles on biscuits, Aragorn knew it was time to address the elephant in the garden.

"Arwen, there's something I need to talk to you about," he began, his voice tinged with nervousness.

Arwen's gaze flickered with curiosity, her eyes fixed on him expectantly.

"I owe you an apology," Aragorn continued, feeling the weight of his words. "I think I may have unintentionally misled you. When I suggested spending time together, it wasn't because... well, it wasn't because of romantic intentions."

Arwen's smile faltered momentarily, a hint of confusion clouding her features. "Oh? I see..."

Aragorn rushed to clarify, desperate to alleviate any misunderstanding. "Please understand, Arwen. You're a dear friend, and I treasure our moments together. But my heart... it lies elsewhere."

Comprehension dawned in Arwen's eyes, and she nodded softly. "I understand, Estel. Thank you for being honest with me."

Relief flooded through Aragorn, mingled with a twinge of regret for causing her any distress. He reached out, clasping her hand gently. "I hope this doesn't change things between us. Your friendship means the world to me."

Arwen's fingers tightened around his, her smile warm and reassuring. "Of course not, Estel. Friends we shall remain, no matter what."

With those words, the tension that had hung between them dissipated, replaced by a renewed sense of camaraderie. They spent the rest of the afternoon in easy companionship, laughter and conversation filling the air.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, Aragorn felt a sense of peace settle over him. Though the path ahead might be uncertain, he knew he could count on Arwen's friendship to guide him through whatever challenges lay ahead. And for that, he was grateful beyond words.

As the afternoon waned and the shadows grew longer in the garden, Arwen sipped her tea thoughtfully, her gaze fixed on Aragorn with a glimmer of mischief in her eyes.

"Estel," she said suddenly, breaking the comfortable silence, "there's someone I think you should meet."

Aragorn looked up, surprised by her suggestion. "Oh? Who might that be?"

Arwen's smile widened, a mischievous sparkle dancing in her eyes. "Legolas, a dear friend of mine. I think you two would get along famously."

Aragorn's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Legolas? The elf from Mirkwood?"

Arwen nodded, her smile growing even brighter. "Yes, the very same. He's visiting Rivendell, and I believe you and he would have much in common."

Aragorn's mind raced with curiosity and anticipation. He had heard tales of Legolas, the skilled archer and brave warrior from the Woodland Realm, and the prospect of meeting him sparked a flicker of excitement within him.

"I would be honored to meet him," Aragorn replied, his voice tinged with anticipation. "When do you suggest I do so?"

Arwen considered for a moment before replying, "How about tomorrow evening? We could invite him to join us for dinner."

Aragorn nodded eagerly, feeling a sense of anticipation building within him. "That sounds wonderful. Thank you, Arwen."

With a smile, Arwen reached out to squeeze his hand affectionately. "You're welcome, Estel. I have a feeling you and Legolas will become fast friends."

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting the garden in a warm glow, Aragorn couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement for the meeting that awaited him. In the company of good friends and the promise of new ones, he knew that the future held endless possibilities. And with Arwen's guidance, he looked forward to whatever adventures lay ahead.