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“Oh, Posco,” Lily whispered. She knew he was right; it did involve him, at least a little, and he did have a right to know. What he had just said, however unknowingly, was exactly what she feared, though. If he felt he had some sort of responsibility, for example to let her go so she could do as her aunt and uncle wished and court Tommy, he might leave her. Or perhaps he would misunderstand her feelings. She would not bear losing him. Lily steadied herself. She had to tell him, and hope he understood. He was watching her, openly and expectantly.
“All right,” said Lily quietly, though loud enough to be heard. “I will tell you. But first, promise me that you will not misunderstand my feelings in this. It will not be as you might think.”
“I’ll try not to,” replied Posco, frowning slightly. Lily nodded, biting her lower lip before continuing. She could not meet his eyes.
“You are right in thinking that it involves you,” said Lily, slowly. She still was not exactly sure how to say this. “You see, there is a lad in Bree, Tommy Banks. Tommy comes from a good family, the type I’m sure my aunt and uncle might expect me to marry into eventually. He has asked my uncle’s permission to court me, when I return.” Lily’s voice sank to a whisper. “My uncle said yes. My aunt is thrilled, and expects I will be, too. I don’t know how I will tell them that I never could, and poor Tommy! My uncle is a fine hobbit so long as you meet his expectations, and there aren’t very many, but I could never live up to his expectations in this. It may complicate matters between us.” Lily looked up at Posco, imploring him to understand. Her throat felt dry, and her eyes wet. Everything had been going so well, and now this. She blinked back the tears. She would not let Posco see her cry. All she needed was for him to understand. Then it would be all right.
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