Forgiveness Kiss: A Legolas and Aragorn Fanfic

The Reassurance

 After a sleepless night, Legolas readied his horse. He was to ride to Rivendell alone, which meant several days trapped with his thoughts. 

 Thranduil walked with Legolas down to the manor gates. It was rare to see Thranduil leave the throne room during the day, so Legolas could tell there was something on his father's mind. Sure enough, once the pair were out of earshot of the guards, Thranduil spoke.

 "Legolas, look at me. Whatever happened between you and Aragorn... he will forgive you."

 Legolas stared at his father, shocked.

 "How-"

 "How did I know?" Thranduil laughed quietly. "How could I not? My son returns home looking as though he lost a fight with a pack of goblins. My son mopes around the manor for years and pretends the lack of contact between him and his best friend is purely accidental. Don't think I have been unable to see your obvious guilt. I am not blind, and that mask of indifference you have been wearing for so long is beginning to slip. Aragorn is a good man, and you have been friends for a long time. He will forgive you, but not if you don't give him the chance. Do you understand?"

 Legolas nodded mutely, still surprised by his father's words. He turned away and mounted his horse. He had almost reached the manor gates when Thranduil called after him.

 "And Legolas?" 

 The Elf looked back at his father.

 "Don't break his heart," Thranduil warned. 

 Legolas finally found his voice.

 "I won't," he promised. 

 And with that, he flicked the reins, galloping off into the forest. He didn't glance behind him. 

 His eyes were only on Rivendell.