Hobbit, Slow Burn Romance, dating
He grew quite fond of their retirement home, Bilbo had to admit. It was a rather small complex, very comfortable and cosy in its nature, where only a handful of tenants were present at all times, breakfasts were always of the most delicious ingredients, and people working there actually enjoyed their job and the company they had. Bilbo, in spite of his profound fondness for complaining, was deprived of the pleasure, since barely anyone ever interrupted his peace and reading unless in case of really important matters, which he considered very considerate and highly admirable. Actually surprised by the fact, he found it serene to be amongst the trees and little houses they lived in, nothing else coming to mind that could make the time flow easier.
But of course, there was also Thorin.
Thorin Oakenshield, as Bilbo had come to know him, became his dear friend and life companion many springs before they moved into the retirement home, and even longer before Thorin finally mustered the courage to ask Bilbo out on a proper date. Up to that point, they lived their lives separately, but together, intertwined in a thread of friendship and obstacles they conquered together. But though closer than they could have ever been, closer than anyone has ever felt to another person, it took them nearly a lifetime to say it out loud.
“We should have done this sooner,” said Bilbo, an ice cream cone in his hand.
“Yes, we should have,” admitted Thorin. His hand, free of food or any other distraction, found Bilbo’s and covered it, only slightly caressing its back. Then, he repeated, “We should have.”