(A birthday drabble for Baylor) 

GANDALF OBSERVES BOROMIR

He has been observing them. I have watched his confusion and bemusement begin to give way to helpless affection. They intrigue him, they tug at his heartstrings.

He is beginning to understand their indomitable spirits, which are fueled by the fierce love they have for one another. He is amused by and admiring of, their good humor in the face of troubles that easily fell beings twice their size. I can see his fascination for them transforming itself into love, and I hope, beyond all hope, that it will be enough to drown out the insidious whispers of the Ring.