The Hobbit Imagines

3. Bard x Reader

You were born of Elvish parents, but you weren't like them. They used their magic to withdraw some of the hereditary traits. You had the beauty of the elves, but not the height. The agility, but not the healing powers. You would age normally. You were practically human. This was for the better. Your parents knew you would have to live in secret but they tried their best to make it easier for you, tried to help you blend in.

You see, they were wanted by many people. Mainly Azog. Before you were born, the pale orc had been attacking towns near Rivendell and so your parents went out to stop him. They slaughtered most of his soldiers, and he had no choice but to return to the shadows and start his forces again. Azog swore he would get his revenge one day. When you were a child your parents travelled each and every day. It was a difficult life for them. Never having a real home, never being safe from the orcs. They hunted your parents wherever they went. Fearing for your safety, you parents sent you to Esgaroth, also known as Lake Town, when you were only three years old. There, you were adopted by a man and a lady who could have no children of their own, and they loved you till the day they died.

They died just last year.

You were now twenty-four and well-loved by the people of Lake Town; your natural charm and grace gained the respect of many. Growing up in the town, you earned a reputation of being kind and selfless. You found comfort in helping others and knew that in this town, people needed it. You were educated by your adoptive parents, who discovered you were incredibly intelligent. And you lived a happy life. The only thing that was missing was... Love.

Sure, there were men all over town who would barter their livelihood for you heart. However, there was only one man who had enchanted you and he was...

"Hello girly." A short man with a grotesque smirk painted on his face, interrupted your thought. "Alfrid." You rolled your eyes. "I 'eard you've been looking for a suitor. Well I can tell you Madam, you won't find no better gentleman in this town than yours truly." He gestured to himself.

Alfrid was... A pitiful character. He was not  the one who had enchanted you. Honestly, he'd done the opposite. Alfrid had the charm of a slug, the manners of a dwarf, and the looks of a troll. Day after day, he tried to convince you to court him. And day after day, you rejected him as kindly as you could. You seemed to be running out of ways to say you're not interested pretty fast.

"I earn a good livin', I've got a lovely home, and I've been told I'm the best kisser North of Mirkwood." Alfrid wiggled his eyebrow at you, making you look away awkwardly. "Alfrid, I've told you before, I couldn't possibly court someone as bold as yourself. Me, a simple town-girl? And you, assistant to the Master himself? People would think it to be scandalous!" You feigned a gasp. He smiled, flashing his crooked and yellowed teeth and said confidently "I can assure you there ain't no reason why we can't get married eventually. Status is just a thing, I can get over the fact that you're just a peasant." You pursed your lips in an irritated smile "But I don't think I can ever get over just how charming you are Alfrid." You forced the words out like vomit. As he was about to say something else, a tall man appeared by your side and looked at Alfred warningly "How many times must I remind you Alfrid, that Y/N will never say yes to you. Not while I can help it." The man had a soft, almost hoarse voice as he spoke. Alfrid tutted at him and began to strop "Well, it's not up to you, is it Bard? Hmmm? You watch, she'll be standing by my side soon enough." And he stormed off in a huff.

You giggled and turned to face Bard- this was the man who had stolen you heart. He was gorgeous, strong, kind and funny. But he didn't love you. You'd never told him about your feelings, but Bard lost his wife years ago in an accident and his three children were constant reminders of his pain. You knew him from seeing him about town- in the markets and such. One day, he invited you out on his boat for a small trip. The better you two got to know each other, the more time you wanted to spend together. You had a lot in common and seemed to make each other laugh uncontrollably. A great friendship blossomed and his family has been there for you, always; especially when your parents died. It hurt you to keep your feelings inside, but it would hurt him more if you riddled him with that guilt. Bard smiled at you and hugged you tightly. "That's the third time he's bothered you in two days. He's becoming more persistent." He remarked. You nodded "Persistence is perhaps the only thing Alfrid can be admired for." Then you added "Nothing seems to shake his spirit." Bard held your hand and the two of you wandered through the streets of Lake Town, enjoying the early autumn breeze.