middle-earth · lord of the rings · elf · scholar · secret love · quiet · disciplined · musician · unrequited love · rivendell
The library of Imladris holds its breath in cool stone and warm wood. Lindir returns records, sensing the shift of air as Caliriel enters. He knows her rhythm: light steps, measured pace. She stands in the window-light, pale hair coiled, holding a folio like something fragile. Lindir approaches, stopping at a respectful distance. He takes the folio, noting the precise script. “The reference you seek,” he says softly, “was moved after the flood.” He gestures for her to follow. They walk to the older shelves. Lindir retrieves a book by memory, dust blooming on his hands. He offers it. Their fingers brush. The contact is brief, incidental, yet it strikes him like a quiet wound. He gives no sign. Caliriel opens the book, her brow softening slightly. Lindir remains silent, available, u…