October Evening
by North-took

Diamond found Pippin standing outside in the rose garden, reduced by unforgiving autumn chill from its summer glory to a tangle of thorns. It was a bitter night; there was a thick blanket of dark clouds and though it was only October, it was cold enough for the ground to freeze. Despite a tinge in the air that hinted of snow soon to come, Pippin wore no cloak and only a light wool tunic.

Pippin did not startle as Diamond draped his winter cloak over his shoulders.

"It was today," Pippin said as he faced east, shivering despite his heavy cloak. "The Witch King stabbed Frodo today."

"I know," Diamond said as she brushed her warm lips against his cold cheek.

He turned to face his wife, his green eyes large and frightened for his absent friend. "Do you think Frodo's truly safe with the elves?"

"I don't know enough about the elves to answer your question," Diamond said honestly. She had yet to actually meet an elf, but she did know hobbits. "But... I don't believe your cousin would have left his friends if there was no hope of healing for him."

"No, he left because there was hope." He put an arm around Diamond's shoulders and drew her close. He kissed the top of her head. "Thank you, my love."