[Merri]

Elanor curled up by the window, tuning out the conversations going on around her.

Back when this all began, she had wished she were going with the traveling hobbits. So much excitement! So much adventure! But now that she was with them, she wished she were safe at home, with Cami and Marigold and even the distasteful Bowman . . .

She drew her knees up to her chin and allowed for a few tears to fall. Would they mind very much if she snuck into the boys' room to visit Sam? She glanced at the older hobbits. They seemed to be distracted.

I might as well take my chance. She tiptoed away and crept out into the hallway, keeping against the walls and in shadows.

"Sam," She whispered, tugging on his sleeve.