[alaklondewen]

Biting the inside of his cheek, Marcho blinked at the insults thrown at him from the old hobbit, and as the hobbit brought his pony to a standstill, Marcho looked over his shoulder and continued to ride forward. “Do you believe that?” He asked his wife who was covering a smirk with her hand.

“He does have a point, Dear.”

Marcho raised his eyebrow and looked sideways at Estella. “You think I have no sense?”

The sound of Estella’s melodious giggle was enough to raise Marcho’s spirits. Her soft, slender hand gently touched her husband’s arm. “A short break and a meal would be nice.” A tender smile brightened her round face. An audible sigh was the scout’s reply, and he waved a signal to his brother to stop. Marcho pulled the reins and slowly brought his wagon to a halt. The wagons, ponies, and hobbits on foot follow suit and a look of relief was apparent on many of their faces.

Estella rummaged around in the back of the wagon until she pulled out a large basket. “Come Dear, let’s have our lunch with Kalimac. I want to hear how little Alora and Crispin are enjoying the trip so far.”

Marcho nodded and followed her silently. He was glad her family was coming on the road, and he enjoyed their company as well from time to time. They seemed to have sensible heads on their shoulders, which was something Marcho respected.

Estella called out and waved to her brother, and Marcho stepped forward and shook his hand. “How are you holding up?” Marcho asked Kalimac, while Estella bypassed her brother to chat with Elsa.