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Blanco was not listening to Lily's narrative of her family, for he was concentrating keenly upon something else. He knew his brother's mind and heart, and he knew what those questions meant. He had known since last night that Posco loved Lily, and he had resolved then to fight so he might win her himself. Oh, he had known that ride would create difficulties for him. Posco was growing bolder. Did Lily love Posco? That was the only thing that mattered now.
'Maybe I will want to meet them,' said Posco in reply to Lily. 'I feel quite certain that I will want to meet them sooner or later.' He blushed again, for he felt the eyes of all those at the table studying him (save Donnamira). 'That is to say, if they are as good and kind as you I would be delighted to meet them as well. I enjoy having kind friends...' He trailed off in confusion.
The scent of supper drifted in from the kitchen, and each hobbit drew in a breath and let it out slowly, and Blanco murmured reverently, 'Taters!'
Peony smiled at him and glanced out the window at the evening sky, and she wondered if her own mother were preparing supper. Her eyes went back to the faces at the table, and then they quickly flew back to the window, and widened. Blanco noticed this and observed her keenly. Her eyes dropped, some colour rose to her cheeks, and she was silent for a few moments while another friendly conversation was begun. Then at last she stood gracefully and said, 'Do excuse me, but I feel the need for fresh air.'
'Would you like me to go with you, Peony?' Blanco questioned. She shook her head and replied, 'No, I would not have any of you bothered at my expense. I am just going to take a little walk about the Inn grounds. I will be back before supper is served.' And she departed.
'I don't know if I have already asked you this, Lily,' said Posco after a momentary pause, 'but when are you leaving Bywater to go home?'
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