Chapter Text
“He’s not bad,” Gimli said, listening to Bofur’s karaoke rendition of “Let It Go.” “Though I have to ask, is he weaving around because of having his cast off or because he’s drunk?”
“I’m going to go with drunk,” said Kili. They had been at “The Three Flutes,” their favorite karaoke bar, for three hours, and Bofur was a little worse for wear in terms of alcohol consumption.
“You have to admit, Bofur’s pretty silly when he’s been drinking,” said Fili.
“He’s gotten better,” said Bifur. “Used to be weepy after drinking. And deserves to be happy. Good contract.”
Every member of the Tin Soldier staff old enough to drink - plus Ori and Gimli - had come out to karaoke in celebration of some phenomenal good luck. An international seller of toys - with shops in Gondor, Rohan, Rivendell, Lorien, and Ered Luin - had come to Bifur and Bofur with an offer to sell a small number of their toys abroad. They had, of course, accepted. This was a major victory for the cousins, and the news coming so close to Durin’s Day was icing on the cake.
Hence a (not-so) small amount of celebration. Earlier that week, Bombur had thrown a fabulous dinner party for the store’s staff. Kili swore blind that he had heard Fili talking in his sleep about the meatballs when he had gone to the bathroom at midnight a week after the party. And, of course, karaoke.
Bofur segued into “When Will My Life Begin” from Tangled. Ori gawped.
“How does he know so many Disney songs?”
Bifur smiled. He watches the movies with the little cousins, and sings along with them. You have to admit that the tunes are catchy.
“They are catchy.” Ori snickered. “Hey Fili! Kili! You guys want to give a rendition of ‘The Trail We Blaze?’ Show Bofur up a little?”
Fili and Kili looked at each other, slow smiles growing on their faces. They moved towards the stage, joining the line of people waiting to take their turn singing.
Bifur rubbed at his forehead, idly pushing his fingers over the scar. Now you’ve done it. They’ll be singing show tunes for weeks.
Gimli looked up from staring pensively into his drink. “If you still need more people, with the new contract and all, I could talk to my little sisters? They’re still in high school, but they could help out on the floor on Saturdays, give you guys some slack?”
Bifur considered the idea. “Might work. Maybe they can come visit the shop? If they want.”
Gimli nodded. “I’ll pitch the idea. They wouldn’t say no to some extra money. Whatever they want to do after high school won’t pay for itself, and they always seem to want new clothes and books.”
Bifur nodded. “Good.”
Lettuce wagged her tail in agreement.
**
Bifur was adjusting the wings on a little mechanical bird when the door opened. It was past six on a Monday night, and although there had been a few stragglers in the shop over the course of the evening, currently there was no one in the shop except for himself. Tauriel had been in earlier, but had left at three after spending the morning and early afternoon working on the forest creatures she was so fond of when she wasn’t helping customers.
Bifur looked up to see Dr. Groinson stomp into the store, along with another man who looked enough like him to be his brother, despite his ginger hair, and two teenage girls. The ginger-haired man looked well put-together, and eyed the shop with an interested eye as the group approached the register area.
Dr. Groinson met Bifur’s eyes and smiled, signing a quick “good afternoon” to him, but it was the ginger man who addressed him.
“Good afternoon! My son Gimli told me that you might want my daughters to help out at your shop a bit?”
“Afternoon. I … presume you’re also Mr. Groinson?”
“That’s correct. But please call me Gloin.” The ginger man said. For all his bluster, he didn’t seem unkind - just a little short. Gimli must take more after his mother. ”And here are my two girls, Nomi and Vigdis Katlasdottrs.” Gloin looked about to burst with pride, with Dr. Groinson not far behind him, though Bifur’s doctor was not so obvious about it as his brother.
The smaller one - Vigdis? - sighed. “Dad.”
Gloin had the grace to look a little sheepish. “Sorry, m’dears. it’s just hard not to be proud of you.”
Bifur turned to Gimli’s sisters. Can either of you sign?
He was grateful to get enthusiastic yesses from both of them.
It helps us talk to Uncle Oin. And keep stuff from Dad - he never really got the knack, said the older one, who Bifur thought was Nomi.
Oin rolled his eyes.
“It works on your parents, but not on me.” Turning to Bifur, he smiled.
Bifur smiled, then switched back to speaking for Gloin’s benefit. “So Gimli suggested bringing your daughters?”
Gloin nodded. “I was a bit skeptical, but my wife informs me that your cousin is reliable, even though his jokes are in bad taste, and my brother” - here Gloin sent Oin a dirty look - “only has good things to say about you, so I thought we’d stop by.”
“Your wife knows Bofur?”
“Apparently they met at some coffeeshop do - Katla is a potter, and makes stuff for several shops downtown.”
“Probably the Teapot.”
Gloin nodded. “That sounds familiar. Now, what did you have in mind for the girls?”
Bifur hummed, and scratched Lettuce’s ears. “Coming in on weekends, helping sell, clean a bit. Some fetching. Two months probation. Minimum wage to start, raise if stay. Will teach some toymaking if they stay.”
Gloin turned to his daughters. “What do you think, girls?”
Nomi looked at Vigdis, then back at her father. “It’s worth a shot?”
Bifur smiled. “Come over on Saturday at ten.” Dress comfortably, with no jewelry that a little kid can grab. Also, pack a lunch or bring money for food. The coffee shop down the street sells good stuff.
**
Ori peered at the shelf or brightly-colored books, then turned to Bifur.
“Maybe …” Do you think that Gortra would like this one?
Bifur picked up the box set, which contained a the first three volumes of a popular teen series.
“Probably? She likes sword and sorcery.”
He propped the book up on a shelf to peer at the description paragraphs on the back of the box.
There’s no obvious signs of love triangles, which is good.
Ori pulled out his smartphone. “I’ll google it.” He poked at his screen for a few moments. “Well, Goodreads likes it. And the main character makes it through the entire series without a love interest.”
Bifur considered the set for another minute, then put it in his basket, which was resting next to Lettuce. “A keeper.”
Ori smiled. “That’s good. Who’s left to buy for here for you?”
Bifur fished the shopping list out of the pocket of his jacket. “Ida.”
“She’s the pony one?” Ori asked as they migrated towards the children’s section of the store.
Yes. And art. And sparkly things.
Ori pursed his lips. “Does she like ballerinas?”
Not since she broke two toes at dancing lessons.
“Point taken.” Ori turned towards the counter. “Ebba, c’mere!”
The clerk hurried over. “What do you need, Ori?” she asked, bumping him companionably with her elbow. Ori staggered a little, almost stepping on Lettuce’s tail - Ebba was much larger than him.
“Bifur and I need help picking a book for his eleven-year-old cousin. She likes ponies. And art. And sparkles.”
Ebba eyed the shelves. humming to herself softly. “How about this one?” She pulled a thick book out of the shelf. “It’s a collection of short stories about awesome fantasy ladies. They’re good for that age level, and none are too long. It has really good illustrations, and there are horses.”
Bifur held his hands out. “May I see?”
When the book was passed to him, Bifur examined it carefully. The edges weren’t too sharp, so Ida (who was very clumsy) wasn’t likely to give herself a papercut or put an eye out. Opening it, he read several passages at random - making sure to point the text out with his index finger to keep it from squiggling away from him.
He closed the book and smiled up at the clerk. “Works for me.” He put the book in his bag and, clucking to Lettuce, meandered towards the cash.
“Your boyfriend is really cute Ori, for all he doesn’t talk much,” he heard Ebba stage-whispered to Ori, a statement which was followed by a great deal of stuttering and a squeaked protest that Bifur was just a friend, thank you very much. Bifur placed the small pile of books on the counter where the register was and decided that discretion was, once again, the better part of valour.
Bifur and Ori wrapped themselves up against the early-winter weather before heading outside after Bifur paid, Bifur making sure to check Lettuce’s booties and knitted under-jacket.
“How does a hot drink sound?” asked Ori. “My tab, since it was my friend that stuck her foot in her mouth.”
“Drinks sound nice. No problem about comment.”
Ori scowled as he ducked into a coffeeshop. Bifur followed him in and they took a place in line. “Still, it was a little rude, and I want to apologize. And” Ori looked around furtively - “don’t tell Dori that I was in a rival coffeeshop. He’d murder me.”
Bifur smiled. It’s no trouble. Now, do you know what this shop’s specialties are?
**
Now that I think about it, Bifur signed over his steaming hot chocolate, there is something you could help me with.
What’s that? Ori replied, He had an adorable foam mustache from his drink - Bifur couldn’t remember what it was.
I usually take one of my younger cousins to see The Nutcracker ballet at Yule, but this year, Bombur’s sister-in-law is getting married. I bought tickets for one of the days that Bombur’s family is occupied with wedding stuff, and I can’t exchange them. Do you want to come with me? As friends, of course.
Ori coughed a little on his mouthful of coffee, then wrinkled his nose as he thought.
“I’m not against the idea, certainly…. When is it?”
The fifteenth of December. Starts at eight.
Ori fished out his phone, tapping through what Bifur assumed was his calendar. “That’s in … three-ish weeks. I don’t have anything planned.” He grinned up at Bifur. “I’d be happy to go with you. On one condition.”
“What?” asked Bifur suspiciously. Ori’s conditions could be odd sometimes.
“Supper’s on me. No argument.”
“I already made dinner reservations.” Bifur pointed out. “Part of the night out with the little cousin.”
Ori pouted. “Weeeell, then I have to treat you to dinner and a movie after Yule.”
Bifur smiled. It’s a deal.
Ori grinned. “Good. Then let’s finish up here and then you can help me see if there’s something out here that Dori would like for Yule.”
**
Ori fidgeted in his seat, picking at the left sleeve of his jacket. He had arrived slightly early, wanting to have a chance to adjust his clothes and go to the washroom before Bifur (and, of course, Lettuce) arrived. Having done so, he had asked the waiter about the table Bifur had arranged, and had been shown to one of the corner booths. Ori felt rather out of place in this restaurant, despite wearing some of his new clothes - it was a fairly swanky restaurant in the upscale part of town, and Ori was not the fanciest of people.
He was peering at his menu when Bifur arrived, Lettuce in tow.
Good evening, Bifur signed as he took a seat, Lettuce curling up at his feet.
Evening, Ori replied. The restaurant had a good buzz of conversation, and was well-lit, so Ori could see the benefits of maintaining a signed conversation. I like your bowtie.
Bifur’s bowtie was purple, and sported a pattern of orange flowers. Thank you. Eilin picked it out for me. Bifur smiled, then peered at Ori suspiciously. Did you get a haircut? I hope that you didn’t go out of your way for tonight.
Ori wrinkled his nose. I was honestly due for a haircut, so don’t worry. And the barber fixed up my beard, too. It feels kind of weird to be mostly-clean shaven.
Bifur laughed. I started growing out my beard as soon as I got out of the army. Haven’t regretted it.
I’d love to be able to grow a decent beard. But all I get is awkward scruff everywhere. It would be great to have a cool beard like Dwalin.
Dwalin does have a good beard. But, Bifur signed, tilting his head a bit to the left, I think our server wants us to order. So a temporary reprieve is in order.
Seeing movement out of the corner of his eye as he turned to get a drink of water, Ori saw their server hovering.
Do you know what’s good here? I was checking out the menu earlier, but I’m undecided.
Bifur smiled, then turned his attention to his own menu, I’ve had the chickpea soup before, and it’s qutie good. If you want something a little spicier, I’d recommend one of the curries.
Ori wrinkled his nose. Decisions, decisions ….
**
They were most of the way through their dinners - Bifur having settled on the chickpea stew, Lettuce getting a large bowl of water, and Ori trying a curried lamb dish - when they were approached by a well-dressed Stiffbeard woman in an elegantly draped green khimar, who Ori assumed was the owner of the establishment, since the servers were rather deferential. She directed her staff with an air of steady command, ensuring that all of the restaurant’s customers were taken care of. She was also accompanied by a chocolate labrador, who was wearing a service vest of a similar make to Lettuce’s.
As soon as Bifur saw her, he grinned, and stood up to shake her hand, then began signing vigorously.
Anah! You look well.
Anah’s signing was excellent, and she smiled as her green-gloved hands flashed.
Bifur, it’s so good to see you. And Lettuce! She looked down at her and smiled. It’s been so long. May I?
Bifur smiled. “Of course. Lettuce, greet.” Lettuce stood and extended a paw to the woman, who shook it delicately. The chocolate lab and Lettuce looked at each other interestedly, but were too well-trained to step away from their people to “chat.”
Anah and Bifur’s brisk commands, Lettuce and the chocolate - whose name turned out to be Chickpea - sat together companionably, leaning on each other while keeping half an eye on their people.
She turned to Ori, and spoke. “And who is this?” Ori (who had thankfully been warned beforehand by Bifur) didn’t react to the mass of scar tissue that covered Anah’s right cheek and her eye, a pale network of lines against her otherwise dark skin.
“My name is Ori, ma’am.” And I can sign, so feel free.
Ori got a cheek pat for his trouble.
Aren’t you adorable! And so thoughtful. Now, are you two having a good time? Remember, Bifur, Anah said as she turned back towards him a bit, anything you want to eat or drink is on the house. And nothing but the best for you, so don’t try to order the cheap stuff.
She turned back to Ori. Bifur risked his life to save mine when we were in the forces. She patted Bifur’s hand with her gloved one. I’ve never forgotten it.
Bifur smiled. You don’t need to thank me, Anah. I didn’t do as good a job as I should have, and I was only doing my duty.
Anah frowned. You stop that! You’re one of the bravest people I know. Don’t sell yourself short.
Bifur smiled. I’d say the same thing about you. And you did help save me back twice.
Anah turned away for a moment, ostensibly to direct some of her servers, but Ori suspected that there was a bit of sniffling as well.
Anah rolled her eyes at Ori. He’s such a sweetheart. Sometimes I wish that I was more Bifur’s type. We would have cute babies, don’t you think?
But I’m not your type, and you’re already married. With cute babies.
That doesn’t mean I can’t add another husband. More cute babies.
Anah, I’m as flattered as ever, but I must, once again, decline.
Anah patted Bifur’s hand, and stood, Chickpea taking a position right behind her owner.
“Tell the servers if you need anything, dears.”
Anah swept off in a swirl of skirts and a whiff of anise perfume. When she had returned to the kitchen area, Ori turned to Bifur and raised an eyebrow.
“Do you have many pretty ladies vying for your attention?”
Bifur shrugged, and took a bite of his soup. Some. It’s awkwarder with the ladies than the gents.
Ori smiled. “I’m sure you’re always a gentleman, no matter who’s asking.”
I do my best. Now eat up, or your food will go cold.
***
The amphitheater was full, the low buzz of speech filling it despite the heavy purple velvet curtains drawn across the stage and draped at strategic points around the room. Ori was pleased that he and Bifur had good seats, close enough to see the action but not so close that the angling was bad. And Lettuce had taken over the floor by her designated seat, lying down on the plush blanket that the attendant had provided for her so that she wouldn’t get cold on the fancy tiles in the chaired section of the theater.
Ori turned towards Bifur. Is Lettuce comfortable?
Bifur looked down at his dog, and smiled, an expression which stayed as the older man turned back to Ori. She’ll be fine. She has her blanket, and she likes music.
Ori smiled back at Bifur. Well, I’d have to agree with Lettuce. Music is wonderful. And this is particularly good music.
It’s better with good company, signed Bifur. Which this is.
You’re a flatterer. “And the lights are dimming - the show’s about to start!”
The orchestra began to tune, and Ori settled into his seat. Good music was better with good company.
**
Ori and Bifur waited in the late-night chill outside the theater for taxis to take them home. The city bus to downtown had filled up before they could reach it, and at this hour of night, the next one wouldn’t arrive for some time.
Bifur looked around at the slew of people waiting for taxis. Ori was shivering slightly in his jacket, and Lettuce was picking up her feet in the way that indicated that they were cold, even through her little booties.
Do you want to share a taxi? he asked Ori. Quicker that way, and cheaper. And you live closer to downtown, so you should give your address first.
“S-sh-sure,” stuttered Ori, while pulling his hat closer around his ears.
Do you want my scarf? asked Bifur worriedly. You look chilly.
“I’ll be fine,” said Ori, who was unable to sign due to his thick mittens. Bifur always wore gloves so he could sign.
You don’t look fine. Bifur scowled at his friend. You’re shivering. You don’t have the advantage of a good blubber layer like me.
“We…” Ori peered at the line in front of them. “We’re almost next in line for the taxis. I’ll manage.”
Bifur took off his scarf and, despite Ori’s continued protests, wrapped it around the younger man’s head.
You need it more.
A few moments of foot-stomping and hands-in-armpits later, they were at the front of the line and took their seats in the back of a taxi, Bifur guiding Lettuce into the car. Ori consulted with the driver.
The driver nodded, and adjusted his gloves against the cold that permeated the car, despite its heater chugging steadily. “We’re on our way, then.”
The drive from the theater, and headed towards Ori’s building. When they arrived, Ori handed Bifur a ten-dollar bill for his part of the drive, refusing to take it back, even when Bifur insisted. Bifur managed to slip it into the back pocket of Ori’s pants when he crawled out of the car. Bifur refused to acknowledge the rather tempting curve of Ori’s bottom in those pants. Ori was his friend, not a potential … something.
After Ori closed the car door, the taxi took off again for Bifur’s home. Bifur peered out the window, appreciating the stillness of the night. It was cold enough that it wasn’t snowing, and the stars were out in full force.
As he counted the stars, Bifur felt it was no wonder that the constellation mobiles that Tauriel made were flying off the shelves at the shop.
***
Turith and her sons had settled into a quiet exchange of Yule gifts. Yule was a tradition that had spread from several other groups in the area, but many people in Erebor celebrated it anyway, taking any excuse to exchange presents and eat a lot as a family,
Ori’s family had gathered in Turith’s apartment, which was lovingly decorated for the season. Ori had staked out a place on the comfortable couch in the living room, and was giving Turith’s pug the scratching of his life. Baxter was wriggling all over the floor in glee, tongue out, chubb jigging. Ori looked up from his task to see Nori investigating the presents.
“Nori!” he said sharply. “Get away from there!”
Nori stood, rolling his eyes. “Spoilsport. I just wanted to see which ones were mine.”
“Come on, Nori, we’re going to open them as soon as Mum and Dori bring the tea and snacks out.”
“I’ll see if I can hurry them along. And see if I can get some coffee. The whole idea of not opening presents until Mum has her tea always seemed a little iffy to me.”
As Nori went to the kitchen, Ori resumed his dog-tickling. Soon enough, his mother and brothers entered the living room with trays of tea, cookies, and pastries. While waiting for everyone to settle, Ori wiped his hands on his pants surreptitiously, grabbed a pastry, and ate it neatly.
“Alright, Ori, present time,” said Turith. “You go first. Dori,” she turned to her eldest, who was seated next to the tree, “please pick out a present for Ori.”
Dori went to Ori’s neatly-piled stack of presents and pulled out a neatly-wrapped purple package. Handing it to Ori, he returned to his seat. Ori examined the package theatrically, even going so far as to hold it up to his ear to shake it.
“Come on, Ori,” Nori complained, “open it!”
“Alright, alright. I’m opening it.” Ori carefully untied the twisted ribbon and removed the wrapping paper to find a plain box, which was stuffed with styrofoam packing. He sifted through it carefully - not wanting any to fall on the floor where the dog could find them - to find a lovely hand-thrown mug. He looked up to see Nori smiling at him smugly.
“Figured you would want something to keep your drinks in when you graduate, all professor-like.”
Ori reached over and gave Nori as much of a hug as he was able over the intervening space. “It’s lovely, Nori.” Setting aside the mug and its packaging, he turned to Dori. “It’s Nori’s turn next. Will you pick something out for him?”
A large yellow package was handed over to Ori’s middle brother in short order. Nori ripped the packaging apart with no concern for tidiness, revealing a sizeable hair-care kit from Turith.
“Now that’s lovely, Nori,” Ori said, knowing that both Nori and Turith would be better off for a bit of flattery. Hearing a faint crunching noise by his feet, Ori looked down to see Baxter happily chewing on some wrapping paper.
Sighing, Ori knelt down. “Now, Baxter, you know that’s not food,” he said as he removed the wrapping paper from Baxter’s mouth and carefully checked for any that might have gotten caught in his teeth. “This will make you sick, and where would we be, taking you to the veterinarian’s office during the holidays?”
Ori collected all the bits of paper and stood, giving Baxter a quick pat on the head as he went up. “I’m going to throw these out, and bring over a garbage bag for the rest. Don’t want him choking on something.”
“That’s a good thought, Ori,” said Dori, looking up from a half-unwrapped sweater vest.
Ambling over to the kitchen, Ori turned towards Dori and scowled. “Don’t open anything without me!”
“Hurry up or we will!”
Ori harrumphed as he fished a new garbage bag out of the cupboard. “You better not - I have the Quality Streets in reserve!”
“Then hurry up!”
***
Bifur looked at Bofur concernedly. Are you sure that you’ll be alright here on your own? I can stay.
Bofur blew his nose, then waved Bifur away with the dirty tissue still in hand. “I’ll be fine,” he said, rather muzzily from the after-effects of the cold medicine. “Kili will be here in half an hour to help me” ...ah-ah-achoo! “close up and do inventory, an’ it’s been quiet all day because of the snow, so there’s no reason that you can’t go and enjoy this date thing.” Bofur sneezed again - Bifur could swear that his bottom lifted an inch off of his chair with the force of it.
Bifur scowled. It’s not a date.
Bofur smiled. “Well then, no reason you can’t go and enjoy this not-date thing. Go on.”
If you insist. Bifur headed into the back room to put on his winter gear and to help Lettuce with hers. When they were done, Bifur grabbed the package containing Ori’s belated Yule gift, and then they headed back to the storefront.
Call me if you need me, Bifur signed sternly. Promise, or I’m not budging.
“Alwight, you worrywart,” grumbled Bofur. “Now go. And don’t leave the door open too long or else” - another pause for a sniffle - “a stupid amount of snow will get in.”
As he opened the door to the shop, Bifur turned back for one final admonishment. “And drink the tea I left!” With that, he closed the Soldier’s door firmly behind him and walked briskly down the street towards the Teapot, Lettuce at his heels.
It was very chilly for late December.
The door to the Teapot opened with its usual tinkling of the bell. Bifur made sure that Lettuce was securely inside before he entered the coffee shop.
Bifur and Lettuce stood by the door a minute while he scanned the tables for Ori. Seeing that his younger friend hadn’t yet arrived, Bifur claimed a table and went to stand in line.
When his turn was up, Dori smiled at him in greeting.
What can I get for you, Bifur?
A large cider, please. For here.
Coming right up!
The large mug of cider was placed on the counter in a moment, and Bifur took it over to his table, setting it down before sitting and making sure that Lettuce was comfortable beside him, her cold-weather gear tucked under his coat.
Bifur’s cider was almost done when Ori stumbled into the Teapot, a gust of wind blowing in a mass of snow from behind him. Ori looked around the shop, and headed towards Bifur as soon as he saw him.
“I’m sorry I’m late!” Ori said, putting down his messenger bag and a big plastic bag, and shedding his coat, mittens, and heavy scarf. “There was a massive line-up at the university library. It’s the first round of midterms for the undergrads, and I swear you can smell the fear.”
“It’s alright,” replied Bifur reassuringly. “I like people-watching. Very calming.”
Placing his hat in the hood of his coat, Ori asked, “I hope you weren’t waiting long.”
Not too long. And I got to enjoy a delicious cider while I waited.
“Well, do you want to go and order some food? Cider’s all well and good for warming a body up, but it doesn’t keep you going the way a good soup does in the winter.”
“Sounds lovely.” Bifur stood and began walking towards the cash, Ori at his side and and Lettuce on his heels. “I saw a nice winter-vegetable soup?”
As they took their place in line, Ori grinned. “Great! Dori’s winter veg soup changes on what he can get freshest, but it’s always delicious.”
Good to hear. Now, what was so interesting at the library that it kept you so late?
“Well, as I’ve already told you, I’m pretty much done the first draft of my thesis, and I’m just trying to get the final bits together before I start serious editing. Today I was going through and finishing some of the bits that I had left undone earlier. I had to fight over some resources with some of the masters’ students, but I got what I needed eventually.”
Bifur grinned. Was that masters’ student you have a feud with there?
“Oh, Gani? Yes, but I got to the library before him and got the good seat next to the heaters and the toilets. He looked so mad when he got there!”
“And I’ll be mad if you two don’t stop talking and start ordering!” Dori interjected. They had reached the head of the line.
“Um...” Ori scrunched up his nose. “Two servings of the winter veg soup, two cloverleaf rolls, a cider, and -” he turned to Bifur - “what do you want to drink?”
“A breakfast tea, please. And a bowl of water for Lettuce.”
“Sure thing,” said Dori. “You’re paying, Ori?” Dori’s fingers flashed above the till.
“Yup.”
“It’ll be twenty-three forty-six, please.”
Bifur idly petted Lettuce as Ori fished in his pockets for his wallet, then sorted through it for the correct bills, his nose almost touching the leather. “Here you go!”
Dori handed Ori his change in a moment. “You fellows - and Lettuce - can go and wait for your food at your table. Someone will come over with it in a few minutes.”
“Thanks, Dori!”
**
Bifur was happily draining the last of his tea when Ori leaned back in his chair, contentedly full of soup, roll, and cider. It was always good to eat at his brother’s restaurant; the food was delicious, the atmosphere was homey, and the company was good.
“So,” Ori asked when Bifur had put down his mug, “D’you want to do our belated present exchange now?”
Sure, signed Bifur. Reaching down, Bifur picked up the package, removed the paper bag which had protected it from the elements on the way over from the Soldier, and handed it to Ori.
As punishment for being late, you must open your present first, signed Bifur, totally straight-faced.
Ori scowled, his nose wrinkling in a very appealing fashion, before examining the package in his hands, his expression turning to one of gleeful anticipation.
“The wrapping paper is very pretty - is it some of the stuff you keep in the shop for customers?”
Bifur nodded. “Pattern is ‘Stars at midnight.’”
“Well,” Ori said, carefully unpicking a corner of the wrapping paper, “I’ll save as much of it as I can. I should be able to use it in something else.”
After a moment’s careful labour, the wrapping paper was put aside, and Ori was left holding a dull brown paper box. Opening it, a mass of plastic safety pellets were revealed. The top layer of these was peeled back to reveal the top of a large bowl. Ori scooped it out - being careful to put the pellets inside of it back in the box - and held it up before gasping.
“A yarn bowl! How lovely.” Ori turned the bowl around slowly. “And the pattern of little books is adorable.” Smiling, Ori set down the bowl and gave it a little pat.
“Thank you, Bifur. Really. I love it.”
Bifur blushed a little. It was nothing.
“Did you get it from Katla’s shop?”
“Yes. You recognized the maker’s mark?”
“I did. And it’s kind of funny, because - ” Ori reached into his plastic bag, and took out a smaller bag. “- I got something for Lettuce from her as well.” Handing the package to Bifur, Ori reached under the table and gave Lettuce a pat on the head.
“It only seemed fair to give Lettuce a present as well, since she’s such a good girl and she’s such a help to you.”
Then I have to accept!
Bifur opened the bag to find a pottery dog bowl, cunningly made up to look like it was made out of -
“Lettuce leaves!”
Ori grinned. “Yes indeed. Katla thought it was a challenge.”
Bifur carefully checked the bowl over to make sure it didn’t have any leftover wrapping paper of bits of tape, then placed it on the floor. Fishing in his pockets, Bifur put a dog treat in the middle of the bowl, then clucked to Lettuce so that she would come and investigate it.
Lettuce stood and padded over to the bowl. The treat was ingested quickly, and Lettuce nosed the bowl curiously. It got a quick lick, then Lettuce went back to her seat by Bifur.
I think she likes it.
“I do hope so.”
I’ll put it in the sho p - it can be her at-work bowl.
“That would be lovely.” Ori’s nose wrinkled in that adorable way that meant he was pleased and amused. “Now, as for your gift.”
Ori rummaged a bit in his bag and brought out two slim packages, one rather larger than the other, which he handed to Bifur. “Here.”
Bifur unwrapped the larger package to find several lovely notebooks. He opened the first to find that it was graphed paper.
“Are they all graph?”
“Yes,” said Ori. “It’s supposed to be really good for design work, according to Fili.”
Bifur carefully put down the notebooks. It is good for design work. I’ll be able to plan lots of fun toys with these! Thank you, Ori.
Turning to the smaller package, Bifur unwrapped it to see that it contained a set of lovely drafting pencils.
He looked up to see Ori smiling at him. “Do you like them? I got them at the art supplies store associated with my university.”
“They’re lovely,” Bifur said, happily examining them. “Though I’ll have to keep them away from Bofur; he forgets and uses nice pencils for mucky jobs.”
“Well, that’s no good.” Ori wrinkled his nose. “Those pencils are for toy ideas, not cleaning out the paint from under his nails.”
These are wonderful presents, Ori. When I’ve got stuff in the notebooks, I’ll show you them.
Ori smiled. “I’d like that.”