Avonlea MB  Fan Fiction   Where My Heart Belongs Support Search RSS runboard.com       Sign up (learn about it) | Sign in (lost password?) Page:  1  2  3  4  ladybell101 Dance Card Stealer Global user Registered: 12-2006 Posts: 100 Kindredness: 4 (+4/-0)  |  Re: Where My Heart Belongs Chapter 14: Lost Hope Anne went home from the restaurant that night feeling lost, lonely, and confused. She couldn't believe that Roy allowed his family to torment her like they did. He claimed that he loved her, but was he just saying that? Was he in love with the idea of love? Was she? Anne stopped and thought about it. All her life she wanted someone to come and sweep her off her feet and take her away. Roy was like that in a way, but Anne found herself wanting more. It wasn't as satisfying as she thought it was. Maybe her ideals were wrong to begin with; she didn't know. Before she could do anything else, she heard someone banging on her door. “Anne, it's Roy. Please open up.” Oh boy, she thought. Should I get it, or should I not? Roy kept banging on the door, so Anne decided to open it to make him stop. “Yes?” “I wanna talk. Come up to the roof with me.” “No.” “No?” Anne shook her head. “No.” “Please? Just hear me out,” Roy pleaded. She sighed. “Fine.” Anne followed Roy up to the roof and stood at the exact same spot she stood when she first met him. “Anne, I'm sorry for tonight,” Roy said. “I've been thinking about what you said, and you're right. I should have said something to Mom and Dorothy and Aline, and it was wrong of me to have kept quiet. You mean a lot to me.” He took Anne's hands and put them into his, and she turned to look at him. “You're unlike anyone I've ever met before, and I love everything about you. I want to spend the rest of my life knowing you and your secrets.” He got down on one knee and pulled out a box in his pocket. Inside that box was a flawless diamond ring. “Anne, will you marry me?” Anne put her hand over her mouth and closed her eyes. She had always dreamed of a moment like this, but something in her heart told her otherwise. A tear trickled down her cheek. “Anne?” Roy asked. He didn't know if this was a good or bad sign. “I'm sorry, Roy, but I can't marry you,” she managed to stammer out. Roy got up on his feet and was stunned. “But...but....why?” “You want someone who will love you and care for you and will treat you like a king.” “That's not what I'm looking for -” “I want someone who belongs in my life. We live in two completely different worlds, Roy.” “But I don't understand -" “It's for the best. You'll know what I mean ten years down the road from now.” She hugged him and kissed him on the cheek. “Thank you for everything that you've done for me. I'll never forget you.” She turned and walked back down to her apartment, leaving Roy standing all alone on the roof. He didn't know what to say or do or think. All he knew was that she had rejected him, and he had let her get away. ******************************* Roy left Kingsport with his family without saying goodbye to Anne. Last night had been tough. His family had no clue what went on, and they apparently didn't care. They still didn't understand why Anne had left the restaurant so suddenly; they thought they had done everything right. After dropping his mother and sisters at their respective houses, he returned to his dorm at Redmond. Gilbert knew there was something wrong when he saw Roy removing the picture of him with Anne near his bed. “Roy, is everything all right?” “Yeah,” he replied. “How'd your trip go?” “Okay.” Gilbert knew he was lying due to his body language, but he didn't push it. “That's good.” Roy was feeling uncomfortable. “I'm gonna go out for a bit. See ya later, Gil.” He walked out of the room. That's funny, thought Gilbert. He was raving about Kingsport and his family before he left, and now he acts all bummed out and removes a picture of Anne from his bed stand. Refusing to personally interfere with matters, Gilbert sought out the help of a special friend, Phil Gordon, and hopefully, she would tell him what was going on. “Hello?” “Phil, it's Gil.” “Hey! It's nice to hear from you! It's about time you called me! How are you doing?” “Good, Phil. Anyway, I have a favor to ask of you.” “Ask away, mi amigo.” “I know you know Roy really well, and he just came home from his trip to Kingsport looking depressed. There's something bothering him even though he won't tell me. I knew something was wrong when he removed the picture of him with Anne from his bed stand.” “Something must have gone terribly wrong. What do you want me to do?” “Ask him what happened, but don't tell him I told you to do this.” “You can count on me, Gil. Why don't you meet me at the hangout in an hour? I think I can find Roy by then and can tell you your answer.” “Sounds good. Thanks a lot, Phil.” “Bye.” “Bye.” *** 1/14/2007, 1:05 pm ladybell101 Dance Card Stealer Global user Registered: 12-2006 Posts: 100 Kindredness: 4 (+4/-0)  |  Re: Where My Heart Belongs Phil started on her mission by searching all of Redmond for Roy, looking at the usual spots but was out of luck. He was nowhere to be seen. “Where are you, Roy?” asked Phil. After running around the campus a few times, she eventually found him sitting on the steps to the Redmond library and moping. “Roy, what are you doing here?” she asked. “Hey, Phil,” he greeted without any expression whatsoever. “What's wrong?” “Nothing.” She took a seat next to him. “Oh come on. With that tone in your voice, I know there's something wrong.” “Well, all right,” he admitted. “Maybe there is something wrong.” “Like...” “A rejected proposal.” “What?!” Phil was shocked. “Did you pop the question to Anne?” “Yep.” “And she said 'no'?!” “Yep.” “Oh, Roy. That's terrible! What happened?” He told Phil the previous day's events, starting with the introduction to his family and ending with he considered to be the most humiliating moment of his life. “I don't know what to do now. I love her though, but I guess I'll have to let her go if she wants to be happy.” “You're a good guy, Roy. Hang in there.” Phil patted him on the back. “I'd love to stay, but I have to run some more errands. I'll talk to you later.” She went off happily to the popular Redmond hangout and looked for Gilbert. She knew she shouldn't take pleasure in another person's pain, but she couldn't help herself. With Anne rejecting Roy, that meant Gilbert had a chance. Phil found Gilbert sitting in a corner waiting for her. “I found him,” Phil said. “What happened?” Gilbert asked. “Roy went to Kingsport as you know to introduce his family to Anne. Things went horribly wrong, and Anne stormed out at dinner. At the end of the night, Roy apologized and then proposed.” “Proposed?” Gilbert's mouth hung open. “Yes.” “Oh my gosh.” He sat there, dumbfounded. “Gil, listen to me!” Phil put her hands on his shoulders. “Anne is not engaged!” “Whew.” He breathed a sigh of relief. I'm still good. “That explains why Roy removed the picture. He didn't want anything reminding him of her.” “Oh.” A smile escaped from Gilbert's lips. “Thank you, Phil.” “Don't mention it. I would have scooped anyway because I'm curious like that.” Gilbert laughed. “I know you are.” “You still have a chance with her, Gil.” “I know, but...” “But what?” “What if she turns me down again? She already rejected me twice!” “That was different. She didn't know any better. I know you're gonna think I'm crazy for saying this, but going to Kingsport might have helped you out.” “Huh?” “She has time to figure things out. Without Roy and Morgan and Jack, she wouldn't have anyone to compare you to.” At that moment, Phil's cell phone rang. “Excuse me for a moment.” She picked up the phone. “Hello?” “Phil, it's Anne.” “Anne! How are you?” “Not too good. Roy proposed to me last night, and I rejected him.” “Aww. You poor thing.” “At least two out of the four guys that were bugging me are out.” “That's true.” “Now I have Jack and Gilbert left.” “Speaking of Gilbert -” At that moment, Christine Stuart ran into the room and screamed at the top of her lungs. “I have a ring! I have a ring!”she shouted. “Who is that?” asked Anne. “Christine Stuart,” Phil replied. “Christine? She has a ring?! And Gilbert's there? She's engaged before I am?!” “Anne, let me explain -” “Gilbert Blythe is engaged to another woman? I can't believe this!” “But Anne -” “I can't talk right now, Phil. I'll talk to you later.” She hung up the phone. “No!” Phil cried. “She hung up.” “I guess that ruined my chances,” Gilbert said sadly. “I'll see you later, Phil.” “Gil, wait!” It was too late. Gilbert had all ready run out the hangout. “No,” Phil whispered. “What's the matter?” asked Christine. “I think Gilbert's chances of getting Anne are slim to none right now.” “Oh no. I ruined everything, didn't I? I didn't mean to! My fiancé Jim finally gave me a ring after being engaged for one year.” “Engaged for a year?” “Yes. Jim didn't have any money left over after beginning his practice as a doctor, but he wanted me to marry him anyway. I accepted and patiently waited until I could have my ring. That's why I was so happy when I ran in here; I didn't know you were on the phone with Anne.” “It's okay, Christine.” “I feel so bad though! I know how much he loves her.” “I wish there was something we could do to make Gil go back to Anne again. He's still scared of being rejected.” “I know. Maybe I should talk some sense into him.” “That could work, and if that doesn't work, then I'll talk to him.” “Sounds like a plan.” They shook on it. “I'll go find him now.” “Okay.” Christine hurried off to find Gilbert and hopefully convince him that Anne truly was the one he should be with. 1/14/2007, 1:06 pm ladybell101 Dance Card Stealer Global user Registered: 12-2006 Posts: 100 Kindredness: 4 (+4/-0)  |  Re: Where My Heart Belongs Chapter 15: Heart to Heart After searching the Redmond campus for Gilbert, Christine finally found him sitting on a bench at the park nearby. He was alone and looked discouraged, so she took a seat next to him. “What's the matter, Gil?” Christine asked. “Nothing,” he replied, looking straight ahead. “It's Anne, isn't it?” Gilbert just sat there and didn't say a word. “Don't lie to me, Gil. I know it's her. I can see it in your eyes whenever you or anyone else talks about her.” He turned and faced her. “It's also the way you avoid Roy when you're outside the dorm and clinch your fists whenever anyone talks about him.” “Well...” “I remember when you took me to Diana Barry's...excuse me...Diana Wright's wedding. I heard whispers all around me about you and her, but I just pretended that I didn't hear anything. Then Anne walked down the aisle, and you looked back at her. There was a clear connection between you two even if it wasn't for very long. That's when I grabbed your hand and smiled. I knew you loved her, and when she looked away and avoided you all night, I knew you were hurt. I know she thought I was a threat to her, and in a way I guess I blame myself for not saying anything at the time.” Gilbert sighed. He went back to that fateful night back in the summer and relived it all over again; it hurt as much as it did back then. “Gil,” Christine said. “Go back to her. You need her.” “But what if she rejects me again?” asked Gilbert. “I already asked her twice, and she turned me down both times!” “You never know if you don't try. Having her go to Kingsport was a good thing because it forced her to grow up and mature outside of her comfortable surroundings.” “That's what Phil said.” “Well, Phil's right. No matter what happens you two will at least be good friends. I'm not too sure you can say that about Roy, Jack, and that old guy who was there that night at the dance last semester.” “Morgan?” “Umm...sure. I saw a connection between you and Anne on that night, too. The way you guys were dancing...well...let's just say 'good friends' don't dance like that.” She gave him a wink. “That was to scare off Jack, that little stalker!” He growled. “See? Look at your reaction to Jack; you want to kill him, don't you?” “Well, I don't want to kill him, but I want to get him away from Anne.” “Because you love her?” Gilbert nodded and finally admitted what he truly felt after compressing his feelings for so long. “I do. I love her more than anything.” “Then hang in there. Don't give up on her.” Christine patted him on the back. “I gotta go. I have a recital in half an hour, and I have to get ready. Tare care of yourself.” She left, leaving Gilbert on the bench. He felt better after talking to Christine. In a way, he was glad her older brother Ron had asked him to look after her; he had gained a new friend because of it. After sitting for a few more minutes, he decided to go back to the dorm only to discover that Roy wasn't there. Gilbert thought he was still recovering from his rejection the night before, so he took the opportunity to check his e-mail. He found an e-mail from Phil sitting in his inbox and opened it. Dear Gil, It's me. Sorry for scaring you off earlier. Anne just freaked out, but I promise you that I'll have it all straightened out later when I can get the chance. The reason why I'm writing this to you now instead of calling or running out to find you like Christine did is because Jo came by after you left to surprise me. We're going to elope! It was so sudden that I didn't even have a chance to plan out what I was going to wear or pack. It's nothing against you or my other friends, but Jo and I really want to savor the moment of getting married for ourselves and not let our families bicker over tiny little details that don't even matter. Anyway, I want to tell you that you should go back to Anne. You're truly meant for each other, more than any other couple I have ever known, and you both deserve nothing but happiness. I remember the night when I helped save Anne from the chaos and commotion at the dance last semester. She stayed over at my place, and I took her home. We talked on the way back to Kingsport, and she had nothing but good things to say about you unlike the other guys. I don't know if I should really be bringing this up or not in fear that Anne would get mad or me or something, but we had a little points challenge with the four of you guys on the different aspects of your personalities and what you've done for her. I'm glad to say that you were the winner of that. Good job, my friend! Okay, I know that's a bit off topic here, but I just wanted to let you know that. Try again, Gil. I'm sure you won't regret it. Phil aka the future Mrs. Jo Blake P.S. You have to tell me what happens! That's an order now, ya hear? Gilbert smiled at the end of reading that e-mail. After Christine's talk and Phil's e-mail, he definitely regained the confidence to talk to Anne, and with that hopefully he could get the courage to ask her again. He made the decision to go back to Avonlea as soon as final exams were over, and maybe he could meet up with her soon after that. Finals were only a month away, yet he couldn't wait to get them over with. For the first time in a long time, Gilbert Blythe went to bed happy and had sweet dreams about home. 1/14/2007, 1:07 pm ladybell101 Dance Card Stealer Global user Registered: 12-2006 Posts: 100 Kindredness: 4 (+4/-0)  |  Re: Where My Heart Belongs Chapter 16: Coming Home The year was wrapping up for Anne as she was making out her final exam. It had been quite a year, one that should would like to both relive and forget. She had just been offered a five year extension on her contract from the Board of Governors, and while she was thrilled to receive such an offer, she wasn't sure if she could take five more years of KLC. Anne loved teaching her students, but at the same time she was homesick. She missed Marilla and Green Gables, the comforts of home, and the people of Avonlea itself. Never in a million years would Anne dream of being glad to face Josie Pye's insulting comments, and that spoke wonders about how much she wanted to go back home. After completing the final exam, Anne filed her resignation to the board that would be effective after school was over. She felt sad yet relieved at handing in that piece of paper, but it was something she had to do. Her students heard of her resignation and were saddened by the news. Immediately, Jen Pringle and Emmeline Harris collaborated in throwing Anne a goodbye party, marking the first time they ever did something together without arguing and insulting one another. The rest of the class chipped in for the efforts, and the party was thrown the day before Anne's final exam was to be given. She was touched at the gesture and started to get a bit teary eyed. She was sure to hug every girl and to wish her luck on the exam the next day. While she was happy to have had that party, she was even happier when every girl in her class passed her exam with flying colors. It couldn't have been a better way to leave Kingsport. Before leaving for good, Anne stopped by Katherine Brooke's office to say goodbye. “What are you doing here?” asked Katherine. “I've come to say goodbye,” Anne replied. “Goodbye then. I'll see you next term.” “I'm not coming back next term; I've given my resignation to the board.” Katherine was shocked and even a bit sad to see her go. Even though they had never really gotten along largely in part to Katherine's shunning of people in general, she liked Anne. She was highly intelligent and knew had to get along with people, two reasons why she had lasted in Kingsport for so long. “Where will you spend your vacation?” asked Anne. “Here,” Katherine replied bitterly. “If you don't like it, why do you stay then?” “I have nowhere else to go. People don't accept me.” “That's only because you don't accept them. I've come here to ask you to spend your vacation at Green Gables with me.” “What? Why? I don't think I qualify for such kindness.” She paused for a moment. “You're only asking because you feel sorry for me.” “I am sorry for you. You've rejected so many people in life that they're now turning the tables on you. Now are you coming or not?” “What would you say if I said 'yes'?” “It'd be the first decent thing I've ever seen you do.” Katherine laughed. “Okay, I say 'yes.' Now you can ramble on about how thrilled you are and how I'll have a good time.” “I am thrilled,” Anne began, “but as for a good time...that depends on you, Katherine.” “Okay then.” “Why don't I pick you up around 8 tomorrow, so we can get an early start?” “Sounds good.” *************************** Anne spent the night packing her things so she could return her apartment key to the woman at the front desk in the morning. She returned her key after eating a quick breakfast, put her things in the trunk of her car, and went to pick up Katherine. Katherine surprisingly looked cheerful and was glad to see Anne. The beginning conversation between Anne and Katherine when they first hit the road was made up of small talk, but as the day went on, they got into other things and soon realized that they had more in common than they actually thought. It was fun for Anne to have a conversation with someone that didn't involve guy drama. They arrived at Green Gables late in the afternoon to Marilla's and Rachel's surprise. They weren't expecting Anne until tomorrow, but they didn't mind at all. When Anne's car appeared on the driveway, Marilla ran out of Green Gables so fast that Rachel was sure that she would kill herself doing so. She engulfed Anne in an enormous hug. “Marilla!” “Anne!” Katherine stood back and watched the scene. So that's what it's like to have a loving family... “I wasn't expecting you to get home so soon,” said Marilla. “If you want, I can go back,” joked Anne. “No, you're staying right here!” She laughed. “Marilla, this is Katherine Brooke.” “How do you do, Katherine?” “I'm very well. Thank you,” Katherine said. “Thank you for having me.” “You're very welcome. Welcome to Green Gables.” Marilla spotted Rachel coming out. “Oh dear. Here comes Rachel; she'll want to tell you everything that's been going on in Avonlea.” “Anne!” She hugged her. “I have so much to tell you about the news in Avonlea!” “I have so much to tell you! Rachel, this is Katherine Brooke,” Anne said. “Katherine, this is Rachel Lynde.” “Pleased to meet you.” The women shook hands. I think I'm going to like it here, thought Katherine. ************************** Gilbert was done with his final exams and was anxiously waiting at his desk to get home. He studied as hard as he could to ace every one of his exams and succeeded. All he wanted to do now was to come home, say hello to his parents, and rush over to Green Gables to wait for Anne. After that he could pour his heart out. Gilbert had packed the night before his last final exam so he could leave for Avonlea directly after taking the grueling test. Roy had noticed his roommate packing and spoke up. “It was fun rooming with ya, Gil.” “You too, Roy.” ”You're gonna have another roommate next semester because I won't be coming back.” Gilbert was shocked. “Why?” “I'm moving to Montreal. I figure that I'll do some soul searching before I go back to school.” And it's all because Anne rejected you. “Good luck with that.” “Thanks.” Roy shook hands with Gilbert before going to sleep. Gilbert smiled. I'm going home to Anne. I'm going home to Anne... As soon as he was allowed to leave from the exam, Gilbert made a mad dash to his car. He immediately got in and sped out of the parking like a mad man but did slow down once he hit the road. He was free now, and all he focused on was the road, the way home, and the redhead that he desperately wanted to see. Gilbert was almost in Avonlea when he noticed a speeding vehicle in his rear view mirror. A red Corvette was breezing by and was coming up towards him. “What does this idiot think he's doing?” As soon as he got near enough, Gil took a quick look over to see who it was. It was none other than Jack Garrison. “Why you little son of a gun!” Jack looked over and noticed Gilbert driving. He had remembered him from that night at Redmond and took this as his chance to show him “who's the man.” Jack carefully got near Gilbert, and since they both had their windows down, he shouted, “Wanna race?” “No!” Gilbert shouted back. Jack got a bit closer. “You sure?” Gilbert backed off. “Yeah!” Jack weaved in and out his lane, and since he was going at such a high speed, it was awfully dangerous. The two men were approaching a curve when all of a sudden Jack lost control of his Corvette and started spinning. Gilbert tried to swerve to avoid the on coming vehicle, but it was too late. Jack had already run into him into his driver side door, leaving both men unconscious and trapped in a web of scrap metal. Witnesses of the accident were left to call the authorities and report what they saw. One man was taken to the hospital while the other man was pronounced dead on the scene. 1/14/2007, 1:10 pm ladybell101 Dance Card Stealer Global user Registered: 12-2006 Posts: 100 Kindredness: 4 (+4/-0)  |  Re: Where My Heart Belongs Chapter 17: Revelations And Another Chance Anne was so glad to be back in Avonlea. She longed for the country air and the comforts of home, and with Katherine agreeing to come with her, she would show her what Avonlea had to offer. Diana invited Anne, Katherine, Marilla, and Rachel to tea and to chat and to show Anne her newborn son, little Fred. “I originally wanted a girl so I could name her 'Anne', but I wouldn't trade Baby Fred for the world.” “You would have said the same thing if little Anne had come along,” Rachel said. “He's precious, Diana,” Anne said while holding her new godson. “Every baby is precious and the best,” Marilla stated with a smile. “Diana, may I hold little Fred?” Katherine asked nervously. “Of course you can!” Diana replied. She gently lifted her son from Anne's arms and put him into Katherine's. He starting cooing once Katherine started rocking him. “He loves you, Katherine!” Anne exclaimed. She saw a rare smile escape from Katherine's mouth. “I'm so glad to be home. I missed seeing you all. What's happened since I've been gone?” “I grew, so Anthony Pye can't pick on me anymore,” declared Minnie May Barry. “Can't you think of anything else?” asked Diana. “Anne, did you know Gilbert Blythe's dying?” The cheerful look on Anne's face was now replaced with the look of a ghoul. She turned pale and was on the verge of tears. “Minnie May, watch your mouth!” warned Diana. “What does that mean?” asked Anne anxiously. “We didn't mean to startle you, Anne, but Gilbert's been in an accident,” she began. “What kind of accident?” “A car accident. He was on his way home from school when another vehicle T-boned him on the side. Gilbert was minding his own business and was obeying the speed limit while the other driver did not. The other driver was speeding considerably as if he wanted to race Gil, but Gil wouldn't budge. As both men approached a curve, the other driver lost control and ran into him. Both vehicles were ruined. Gilbert was knocked unconscious from the impact of the collision and is still in a coma. The driver of the other vehicle, on the other hand, wasn't as lucky. His red Corvette was transformed into an accordion, and he was pronounced dead on the scene.” A red Corvette? Anne had a premonition that she hoped could be proven wrong. “Diana, do you, by any chance, know the name of that other driver?” “Jack Garrison, if I'm not mistaken.” “Oh my God!” The tears that she had been trying to hold in fell out. “What's the matter, Anne?” Marilla asked. “I...I knew him,” she stated. “Anne, is that the guy you told me about who you thought had been following you?” Diana asked anxiously. Anne nodded her head. “Yes.” “Oh, Anne!” She put her arm around her friend and tried to comfort her. All the comfort in the world couldn't help Anne at the moment. Her mind drifted away. The man that had stalked her for so long had nearly killed the person who she cared the most about. She never allowed herself to think of Gilbert in such a way, but now that she was losing him, she finally realized it: I love him. ********************************** Later that night, Marilla found Anne sobbing in her room. She sat on her bed and held her. “There there, Anne,” she said. “Marilla, there's a Book of Revelation in everyone's life,” Anne began, “and I just found mine.” Marilla was a bit shocked yet relieved at what she heard. Anne continued. “I've been so blind....so cruel. How could I have treated him like that? All he ever did was love me, and I pushed him away. I went away to Kingsport and got stuck in a dream land when all I ever wanted was right here. Gil can't die. He just can't! He'll never know how I actually feel. I...I love him.” Marilla continued to comfort Anne while she spilled out her confession. “Gilbert means the world to me. He's everything. I can't live without him!” “You can't change what happened in the past, Anne, but it's not too late. You can't control what's in God's hands, but Gilbert does have the Blythe constitution in him. Go see him yourself in the hospital tomorrow, and tell him how you feel. While he may not respond, I know he can hear you.” Anne nodded. She had something to get her through the night. Stay strong, Gil, she thought. I'll see you in the morning. ********************************* Anne woke up early the next morning because she couldn't sleep. She needed to see Gilbert and would stop at nothing to see him. Marilla had a feeling Anne would wake up early, so she got up to make her breakfast. Anne quickly ate and got dressed and got out the door. Marilla watched her as she made a mad dash to her car. “I have a feeling we'll be hearing some good news about Gilbert pretty soon,” she said to herself. Anne arrived at the Avonlea hospital and immediately spotted Gilbert's parents. They were sitting outside the intensive care unit and looked dreadfully pale. She went up to them. “Mr. and Mrs. Blythe?” The Blythes looked up and saw their son's object of affection. “Anne!” “How is he?” “He's still in a coma. The doctors say that he has a 50/50 chance of making it,” Mr. Blythe replied. “Anne, it's awfully good of you to come see him.” “Well, I finally realized what all of Avonlea realized all along,” she said, leaving it at that. Mrs. Blythe smiled weakly. “Would you like to see him now, Anne?” She nodded. “Follow me.” Mrs. Blythe led Anne to Gilbert's room and then rejoined her husband in the waiting area. The girl finally came to her senses, she thought. Anne walked into Gilbert's room and was a bit scared to see her love attached to numerous tubes and looking so fragile, but she didn't let that get in her way. She walked up next to his bed and held his hand. She gave it a squeeze, and she could have sworn that she felt him squeeze back. She leaned up next to his head and began to speak. “Gil, I don't know if you can hear me, but I hope you can. I'm back now, and I'm here to stay. I won't leave ever again. I'm sorry for whatever pain I've caused you. I feel as if this is my fault; if I didn't go to Kingsport, then none of this would have happened. I'm so sorry. I don't know if you can ever forgive me. Stay strong, Gil. I know you're a fighter, and you can't stop fighting now.” She paused in order to regain her composure to say the words she knew he always wanted to hear. “I love you.” Anne looked at him, knowing it could be the last time she would see him alive, so she did what her heart told her to do. She leaned in and kissed him. When she pulled back, she saw him moving. Gilbert's eyes were slowly starting to open. He could barely see the redhead in front of him when he first opened his eyes. It couldn't be her, could it? He blinked a few times to get a better picture, and to his relief and delight, it was her. “Anne.” She put her hand over her mouth. He was alive and awake! “Gil!” she cried. “You came back,” he said weakly. “And I'm here to stay.” “I know. I heard.” “You did?” “I did. There's nothing to forgive, Anne. I love you.” She was speechless yet joyful, but there was still one unresolved issue. “But what about Christine?” “She was engaged to someone else the entire time. I knew her brother, and he told me to look after her. So I did. There was never anything between us, Anne. There would never be anyone for me but you.” She wiped her tears with the back of her hand and kissed Gilbert again. “I'm going to tell your parents and the nurses that you're awake.” “Okay.” Anne happily ran out of Gilbert's room and spread the news to his parents. “He's awake!” Words couldn't express the Blythes' happiness. They stood up and engulfed Anne in an enormous hug. “Thank you, Anne,” Mrs. Blythe managed to say. “Thank you for giving my son life again and giving him the will to live.” “I don't know what to say,” Anne said. “You've done more than you'll ever know,” Mr. Blythe told her. The nurses overheard the conversation and were touched. One of their patients awoke from a coma after having the woman he loved come back to him. It was a joyful moment for everyone. One nurse walked over to the group. “I've sent one of my colleagues to check on him, and we've paged the doctors to let them know that he's awake. After the doctors have examined, we'll move him out of the ICU and into his own room, and we'll keep him here until he's strong enough to go back home.” The Blythes were grateful. Their son was alive, and the woman he loved for so long finally realized her love for him. They couldn't be more thankful. 1/14/2007, 1:13 pm ladybell101 Dance Card Stealer Global user Registered: 12-2006 Posts: 100 Kindredness: 4 (+4/-0)  |  Re: Where My Heart Belongs Gilbert remained in the hospital for the rest of the week with regular visits from Anne. His rapid recovery surprised his doctors; they declared it a miracle. Once he was discharged, he desperately wanted to rush over to Green Gables, but with his car ruined from the crash, he wasn't sure if he had enough strength to make it over there on his own. He got in the back seat of his parents' car and waited to get home, but he noticed that his father didn't take the usual route. “Dad? Where are you going?” he asked. “You'll see,” replied his father. Gilbert looked out the window until he saw his desired destination. “Green Gables?! I love you, Dad.” “You too, son. Take care of yourself while you're over there, and don't push it.” “I won't.” Gilbert got out of the car and looked for Anne as his parents drove away. She was walking through the orchard when he found her. “Gil!” she greeted. She threw her arms around him. “Hello to you too, Anne,” he laughed. “I'm so glad you're here!” “I know.” “When did you get discharged?” “Just this morning. Care to take a walk down the lane? I haven't been up and about in awhile.” “Gil, I wish I could, but I can't. I'm taking Katherine to Alice Penhallow's bonfire tonight, and it's her first party. She's really nervous, and I promised her that I'd help her get ready and coach her on what to say and what not. Why don't we walk across the pond instead?” He agreed. A little bit of Anne was better than having none at all even though he was a little disappointed that he couldn't have her all to himself for the rest of the day. Gilbert was lucky to be alive after the horrific crash, and he thanked God every day that he had the strength to go on. He looked sideways at Anne and thought to himself how blessed he was to have her back in his life. He realized that he couldn't go on without her and just had to bring up the courage to ask her a question that had broken his heart before. When they arrived at the bridge, Gilbert took Anne's hands into his and looked straight into her eyes. He saw nothing but love for him there, and his heart began to race. “Anne, I asked you something in the past that has often left me wondering. If I ask it again now, would you give me a different answer?” She blushed. She knew where this was going but wanted to hear him ask anyway. “What is it that you want to ask me, Gil?” He took a deep breath. “You know I've loved you ever since that first day of school when you broke that white board over my head. You were different - something special - and I knew you were the one for me. I haven't stopped loving you since and couldn't stop even when I tried. I can't bare being with anyone else but you, and I want nothing more than to spend the rest of my life with you.” Gilbert slowly got down on one knee. “Anne Shirley, will you marry me?” Without hesitating, Anne yelled the answer he wanted to hear. “Yes!” Gilbert smiled and immediately got up to take his fiancée in his arms. He felt like flying. At last his quest was complete, and there would be no more doubts. He kissed her and twirled her around. “You've made me the happiest man in the world. I'll love you forever.” Anne put her hand on Gilbert's cheek and kissed him again. Never in her life was she this happy. As happy as Gilbert was, he grew serious all of a sudden. “Anne?” “Yes, Gil?” “I'm afraid I'll have to ask you to wait a long time before we can get married,” he said sadly. “You see, I won't finish med school until three years from now, and even then there won't be any diamond sunbursts or marble halls.” “I don't want sunbursts or marble halls. I just want you.” He kissed her this time. The somewhat impossible dream had finally come true: Anne promised to be his wife, and she would willingly wait for him to finish med school before they would get married. As much as she wanted to stay with him, Anne knew she couldn't back down on her promise to Katherine. “Gil, I have to go. Katherine's waiting for me.” “Not before you get your ring. I'm not letting my fiancée go to that party without a ring to show the eligible bachelors there that this pretty little lady has already been taken.” Anne laughed. “Do we even have time to get a ring now?” “Of course. Lawson's isn't that far from here. Let's go!” Together they walked to Lawson's, hand in hand. Alice Lawson was the first to notice the pair when they walked into her store. “Anne! Gil! I'm so glad to see you!” She hugged both of them. “What brings you here, Gilbert Blythe? You sure gave us one heck of a scare there.” “I'm here for an engagement ring, Alice,” he said. “For my fiancée.” “Fiancée? Anne, did you finally say 'yes' to the poor guy?” “I did,” Anne stated happily. “I'm so happy for you! What kind of ring are you thinking about?” “You have anything with pearls?” “But Anne,” Gilbert began, “pearls are for tears.” “Some of the happiest moments in my life came with tears...like when Marilla told me I could stay at Green Gables, when Matthew gave me my first fancy dress, and when I heard you were going to be all right after the accident. So give me pearls, Gil, and I will gladly accept anything that comes our way.” She kissed him. When she pulled back, he was blushing. “You heard her, Alice. Do you have any pearl engagement rings?” “You're in luck today. We just received a new shipment of rings. Right this way.” Alice led them to the rings. Anne chose a few and tried them on. She finally selected a gold ring that had a pearl center stone with a smaller pearl on either side of it. “Do you like it, Carrots?” Gilbert asked. “I love it,” she said, putting her left hand on his shoulder and rubbing her thumb on his cheek. Alice was so touched at the scene that she insisted on Gilbert not paying for it. “I tell you what, Gil. As a wedding present from me to you both, the ring's on me.” “But Alice -” “No but's about it! Now get outta my store before I chase you with my broom!” she teased. “Thank you so much,” Gilbert said as he hugged her. Anne hugged her, too. “Now take care, you crazy kids. Come see me again!” “We will. We promise!” Gilbert put his arm around Anne as they walked out of Lawson's. They couldn't have been any happier. In the meantime, a man had been watching the scene from the corner of his eye the entire time they were there. He had his back turned to the couple, so they couldn't see him. He looked on as the redhead he once knew and loved chose her engagement ring with her fiancé by her side. He couldn't deny the fact that they looked happy with one another, and maybe Anne had made the right choice after all. Roy let out a sigh. “That Gilbert Blythe is one lucky man.” 1/14/2007, 1:13 pm ladybell101 Dance Card Stealer Global user Registered: 12-2006 Posts: 100 Kindredness: 4 (+4/-0)  |  Re: Where My Heart Belongs Chapter 18: The Announcement After dropping Gilbert off at home, Anne hurried back to Green Gables to help Katherine prepare for her first party. “Well, you're looking really happy this afternoon,” commented Katherine as Anne came into the house looking as radiant as ever. “I am,” Anne said with a smile. “I'm floating on Cloud 9.” “Care to tell me why?” Anne paused for a moment. “I really do want to tell you, Katherine, but it's just that now's not the time for me to tell the whole world yet.” She saw her frown. “It's nothing against you, I promise. I'm not even going to tell Diana.” “What?” Katherine gasped. If she's not going to tell Diana Wright, then it must be big! “Yeah. Tonight is Alice's night since it is her party and all, and I don't want to ruin all that. Besides, there will be a couple of eligible bachelors there that have asked me about you.” “Are you serious? What do I say? What do I do? You know I don't have any experience in that department, Anne.” “Just relax; everything will be okay. You really need to start believing in yourself more, Katherine.” “I wish I had your confidence.” She sighed. “Are you ready to go yet?” “Almost. Just give me a minute.” Anne went into her room and took out a plain gold necklace. She took off Gilbert's engagement ring and put it on the chain to put around her neck for the evening. That way she could still wear the ring without spoiling the surprise if there was any. “Now I'm ready, Katherine.” “Okay. Let's go.” ******************************** The bonfire was great fun for everyone who went. There was tons of food, drinks, music, and dancing. Despite the pre-party jitters, Katherine found herself having a great time with Joe and Mike, the two men that were interested in her. She danced the night away until her feet couldn't support her any more. Anne, on the other hand, tried her hardest not to tell anyone about her engagement just yet. “Anne, is there something you want to tell me?” asked Diana. “Well...not yet,” Anne replied. “So there is something then. Hmm...” She looked at Anne's necklace. “I like your necklace! Where'd you get it?” How should I answer this? “At Lawson's.” Well, it isn't exactly a fib; Gil did get it from there. “Oh.” From the way she's reacting, there's more to that than meets the eye. “So how's Gil?” “He's great. He got discharged from the hospital this morning.” “This morning? He must have recovered very quickly!” “He did, and he's looking as good as ever.” Diana noticed the way Anne's eyes were shining when she said that last sentence and how shaky she looked when she asked her about her necklace. Then it hit her. She remembered how devastated Anne was when she heard the news that Gilbert was in a coma and was possibly dying. She also remembered the phone call she made to Anne the day after her miserable start to teaching in Kingsport and how they talked about Gilbert and Roy. Even if Anne wouldn't admit it, Gilbert would always be a part of her life no matter what. Diana knew that Anne had visited him a few times in the hospital, and with his recent discharge, she suspected that Anne had a lot to do with his rapid recovery. After taking a closer look at the ring on Anne's necklace, she realized that the pearl ring hanging from her throat was something that Anne had wanted for so long and only a special someone could give it to her. Deciding not to ponder on the subject any longer, Diana smiled and secretly wished that Anne's special someone was Gilbert. ************************************ Anne got up bright and early the next day to visit her fiancé. She quickly did her morning routine before running down the stairs. “Marilla, I'll be back in a bit,” she announced as she hurried off to her car. “What's that all about?” asked Rachel as soon as Anne left. “I don't know,” Marilla replied. “Didn't Anne go walking with Gilbert yesterday?” “She did.” “I'm still shocked at how fast that boy recovered, Marilla. I'm betting Anne had a lot to do with it. I sure hope that Providence will get them together.” “You never know, Rachel. You never know.” She secretly hoped that her friend was right. Half an hour later, Anne returned with Gilbert by her side. They walked into the kitchen hand in hand where the ladies were sitting. “Marilla? Rachel? Katherine?” The three of them looked up and were surprised to see Gilbert with her. “Gilbert! It's nice to see you!” greeted Rachel. “How are you feeling?” “Very well, thank you,” he replied. “What brings you here to Green Gables?” He looked at Anne. “Anne and I have an announcement to make that I'm afraid won't surprise anyone. Sweetheart, would you like to do the honors?” She nodded. “Gil asked me to marry him, and I said 'yes.'” “It's about time!” exclaimed Rachel as she jumped out of her seat to hug the pair. “I knew it all along.” “Actually, all of Avonlea knew all along except me,” Anne said. “I'm glad you followed your heart, Anne.” Marilla hugged her. “Gilbert, you're a lucky man.” She hugged him and pulled him close to her so she could whisper into his ear. “Take care of her for me.” “I will,” he whispered back. “Is this what you wanted to tell me last night, Anne?” asked Katherine. “Yes. I'm sorry I didn't tell you yesterday, Katherine, but I really wanted to tell everybody the news only after I told Marilla first. I hope you're not mad at me.” “I'm not mad at you, Anne. I'm happy for you! You deserve all the happiness in the world.” She gave her a hug. “Thank you, Katherine. It means a lot to me.” “Gilbert, have you told your parents yet?” asked Marilla. “Not yet,” he replied. “I know how much Anne wanted to tell you before anyone else, so I kept it to myself last night.” “Aww, that's sweet of you, Gil.” Anne gave him a kiss on the cheek. “Go tell them, my boy,” Rachel said. “I know they'll love to hear the news.” Anne and Gilbert left Green Gables, leaving a happy trio behind them. As soon as they arrived at the Blythe house, it seemed as if they already knew the news. “Anne!” greeted Mrs. Blythe at the door. “Hello.” “There you are, Gil,” said Mr. Blythe. “We were wondering where you went.” “I was with Anne at Green Gables,” he said with a grin as he looked over at her. “Is there something you kids want to tell us?” asked Mrs. Blythe. “You know how much I love Anne,” Gilbert began, “so I asked her to marry me -” “And she said yes?” “She did.” “Aww! Congratulations!” Anne and Gilbert were engulfed in an enormous hug from both of Gilbert's parents. They gave them many well wishes and sent them on their way. The rest of Avonlea quickly heard the news of the engagement, and no one was surprised. The couple was greeted with a mostly warm reception from the town except from Josie Pye, who was still jealous of Anne after all these years, and Billy Andrews and Charlie Sloane. Both tried unsuccessfully to win Anne's heart back when they all went to school together. Diana was thrilled at the news and immediately offered to help plan the wedding; Anne had to calm her down and explain that the wedding wouldn't happen for some time. Despite the fact that it wouldn't take place until three more years, Diana still extended her offer to Anne, and she accepted. The rest of the summer went by rather quickly to Anne's dismay. While she got to spend a lot of time with her fiancé roaming through the woods or taking a walk somewhere, she knew that he would have to return to school to complete his medical degree. Part of her wanted to keep him all to herself, but she knew how badly Gilbert wanted to be a doctor and reluctantly let him go. Three years seemed like a lifetime, but it was a time that she would gladly wait for. Since Anne wasn't returning to Kingsport, she would stay home at Green Gables to help Marilla around the house and to pick up on her writing. That way she would have something to occupy herself with, and hopefully it would ease the pain of waiting for Thanksgiving or Christmas break to come around when Gilbert would be free to visit her. It was finally time for Gilbert to leave, and Anne made sure she was there to say goodbye to him before he left. Gilbert stood outside of his car (which finally got back from the shop after the accident) and kissed Anne. “I love you, my Anne-girl,” he said as he kissed her forehead. “Don't go falling in love with someone else now.” “I won't, Gil. Don't study too hard, or you'll blow your brains out.” He laughed. “Don't worry about me.” He gave her one last kiss before getting in the car. “I love you.” “I love you, too.” And with that, he drove off into the distance, leaving Anne behind to wonder what would happen to them in the next three years. She sighed. I can't wait to get married... 1/14/2007, 1:17 pm ladybell101 Dance Card Stealer Global user Registered: 12-2006 Posts: 100 Kindredness: 4 (+4/-0)  |  Re: Where My Heart Belongs Note - The songs used in this chapter as are follows: "Let Me Call You Sweetheart" (I'm sorry I don't know the original recording artist since it's been covered so many times), "I Got You Babe" by Sonny and Cher, and "At Last" by Etta James. I wish I could claim that I wrote these actual songs, but I can't. If I did, then I'd have a heck of a lot more money than I have now. :P ******************************* Chapter 19: At Last Chapter 19: At Last Three long years had finally passed, and Gilbert was now officially Dr. Gilbert Blythe. Anne beamed with pride as she watched her fiancé receive his diploma. It was hard at times to maintain a long distance relationship because they missed each other so much, but they managed to do so somehow. In their time apart, their relationship grew even stronger, and it also allowed them to slowly plan out details of their wedding. On days where Anne didn't have much to do, she would take Marilla and Diana with her to look at wedding dresses. After looking at literally one hundred dresses, Anne finally chose one that made her feel like royalty after putting it on. It was a strapless, Vera Wang inspired gown that had poofs hanging down towards the bottom of the gown, accenting her figure. Marilla couldn't believe her eyes. “My little girl's all grown up,” she cried as she saw Anne standing on a platform with her dress on. “I never thought I'd live to see the day.” “I never thought my best friend would finally come to her senses to marry the love of her life. It's about time!” Diana joked. “I know,” Anne giggled back. “You think Gil will love me in this?” “Anne, he'll love you in anything,” Diana said with a smile. ****************************** The preparations for the wedding were complete. Diana was to be Anne's matron of honor, Fred was to be Gilbert's best man, Fred, Jr. was to be the ring bearer, and the Wrights' daughter Anne Cordelia was to be the flower girl. The dresses were picked out, and the tuxedos were ready. The church and reception areas were already decorated and awaiting the happy couple the next day. Time came for the couple to run through the ceremony with the wedding party. Everything went smoothly, but before the minister could even say “You may kiss the bride,” Gilbert grabbed Anne and gave her a passionate kiss. Diana laughed and so did the rest of the people in the church. Even Rachel Lynde was touched by the scene. “They're made for each other,” Rachel whispered to Marilla. She nodded. Everyone in Avonlea knew for quite some time, except Anne, that she and Gilbert were made for each other. It was only time until she realized her true feelings for him. After the run through, everyone went to the rehearsal dinner at Green Gables. Marilla and Rachel had taken the liberty of cooking the dinner against Anne's original wishes. She didn't want either of them to lift a finger because they had done so much for her already, but they insisted on doing so. Along with Marilla and Rachel were the Blythes, the Wrights, Phil Gordon (or Blake rather) with her husband, the minister and his wife, and Katherine Brooke. The rest of the guests would be at the ceremony and reception tomorrow. Before dinner was served, John Blythe stood to deliver a small speech. “I want to propose a toast to Gilbert and Anne, probably the most infamous couple in all of Avonlea. I want to say that I am so proud of my son. I've watched him grow up to be a man and a doctor, and now he'll be a loving husband and father. Gil, you're everything a father could ask his son to be.” He started to tear up. “I knew you and Anne were a perfect match the moment I saw you two together, and I wish you nothing but the best. Take care of him, Anne.” “I will,” Anne said as she went up to hug her future father-in-law. *** 1/14/2007, 1:23 pm ladybell101 Dance Card Stealer Global user Registered: 12-2006 Posts: 100 Kindredness: 4 (+4/-0)  |  Re: Where My Heart Belongs It was time to say goodbye, at least until tomorrow. Diana planned Anne's bachelorette party while Fred planned Gilbert's bachelor party. They knew the love birds couldn't stand to be apart and didn't know if they could last without another until the ceremony. As part of a secret pact between Fred and Diana, Diana would first take Anne to the same karaoke bar that Anne took her for her bachelorette party for a bit of fun. Fred would take Gilbert to the same karaoke bar a bit later; he'd stall by taking the longer route to it. The plan was to reunite the couple unexpectedly so they could spend a bit more time together before the night was over. “Come on, Anne. Let's go!” called Diana as she got her car ready. “Can I at least say goodbye to my fiancé first?” begged Anne. “Okay, but hurry up!” Diana said impatiently. She looked over at her husband and winked. Gilbert gave Anne a gentle kiss. “I love you, Carrots.” “I love you too, Gil,” she said looking into his hazel eyes. “I'll see you at the altar tomorrow.” “Okay.” He kissed his fiancée on the nose and watched as she went with Diana. “Are you ready, Gil?” asked Fred. “I'm ready,” he said, “but where are you taking me?” “That's a surprise.” “Oh boy. Is it some place appropriate at least?” “It is. I know you're not into that kind of stuff, so I think you'll like where we're going.” “Okay.” Gilbert got into the passenger seat of Fred's car. He saw Diana's car turn to the right while Fred was going to the left. He wondered how he would get through the night without his little redhead. Meanwhile, Anne was thinking about the same thing. How could she have fun without the love of her life? Ever since she realized how big of a role Gilbert played in her life, she never looked back. He was hers and hers alone. They were so used to doing things together ever since the accident that it was weird to do things on their own. Diana read what was on Anne's mind. “Cheer up, Anne. I know you're going to love where we're going to.” Anne looked up at the upcoming sign: Paradise Grill & Karaoke Bar. “Karaoke? I haven't done that since your bachelorette party!” “I know it's been awhile, and besides, we had a blast last time. Why not do the same this time?” “Diana, you're the best!” She gave Diana a hug after they got out of the car. Just wait 'til you-know-who shows up, thought Diana. They went in, and since Diana had called ahead, she was able to call dibs on songs. She went up on stage, and Anne took a seat at a table to watch her best friend perform. Diana chose to sing Gloria Gaynor's “I Will Survive”, and she brought down the house with it. Anne was the first to give her friend a standing ovation; others followed her example. “Thank you. Thank you,” Diana said into the microphone. “My friend Anne is getting married tomorrow, and she's sitting over there.” She pointed to where Anne was sitting. “I know her and her fiancé really well, and I know they'll be happy together. I also know that she wants to sing a song, so will my best friend please come up on stage?” Anne went up on stage and looked at Diana. “Are you crazy? I don't know what to sing!” “I'll find a song for you.” Before she could object, Diana had all ready chosen a song. “Everybody give it up for Anne!” Anne was greeted with a chorus of cheers. “Diana Wright, you're insane!” “I know,” she said with a grin as she took Anne's seat. Anne took the microphone and waited for her song to begin. During this time, Fred had done his part to stall Gilbert's arrival. Gilbert had been dying to know where he was being taken to, but Fred wouldn't budge. Just as they were arriving, he noticed the sign. “Karaoke?” Gilbert asked. “Fred, you know I don't sing -” “But you do know who's singing there right now,” Fred answered. “Who?” “You'll see.” Gilbert and Fred got out of the car and entered the bar. As they made their way over towards the karaoke area, Gilbert noticed the figure of a redhead up on stage. Could it be who he was thinking it was? His thoughts were confirmed when he heard the words coming out of her mouth. Let me call you sweetheart. I'm in love with you. Let me hear you whisper that you love me, too. Keep the love light shining in your eyes so true. Let me call you sweetheart. I'm in love with you. Sure enough, it was his fiancée singing her heart out on stage. She could make anything sound poetic and romantic. He went up towards the stage to get a closer look. At the end of her song, he was the first one to burst out with applause. “Bravo!” “Gil!” she yelled with delight. She ran down the stairs of the stage but tripped on the last one. Gilbert rushed towards the stage to kneel down next to her to find her laughing. “I'm glad to see that you're all right,” he observed. “Is there anything broken?” “I don't think so.” She kissed him. “Why didn't you tell me that you were going to be here?” “I didn't know. Fred wouldn't tell me where we were going.” “Diana wouldn't tell me either.” They looked over at Diana and Fred who were smiling. “Did you two plan this out all along?” Anne asked. They nodded. “You can thank us later,” Fred said as he kissed his wife on the cheek. “Now, Gil,” Diana began. “I know you don't sing, but would you like to join Anne in a duet?” “Please. Pretty please?” Anne pleaded. “How can I say no to you?” Gilbert said. He joined Anne on stage as they sang a duet. [Anne] They say we're young, and we don't know. We won't find out until we grow. [Gilbert] Well I don't know if all that's true 'cause you got me, and baby I got you. Babe. [Both] I got you, babe. I got you, babe. At the last “I got you, babe” of the song the entire bar was on its feet. Gilbert's braveness was rewarded with a kiss from Anne. They got off the stage and said their goodbyes, knowing that they had a long day ahead of them. Tomorrow I'll be Mrs. Gilbert Blythe, Anne thought happily. 1/14/2007, 1:24 pm ladybell101 Dance Card Stealer Global user Registered: 12-2006 Posts: 100 Kindredness: 4 (+4/-0)  |  Re: Where My Heart Belongs The day that all of Avonlea had waited for for years had arrived. Anne and Gilbert were to be married (finally), and both arrived early at the church, careful not to see each other before the big moment. Through Fred and Diana, they exchanged gifts. Anne gave Gilbert a gold watch, and in return he gave her a white gold necklace with a heart pendant. Anne was so touched that she decided to wear it on this special day. With the help of Marilla and Diana, she got in her dress, had her hair done exactly in the way she knew Gilbert would love it, and had her veil tucked in. “Matthew would have loved to have seen you like this,” Marilla said barely above a whisper. “I know,” Anne whispered back. “I'm proud of you, Anne. I'm so proud to call you my daughter. I can't imagine having anyone else; I'm so glad I have my girl. You'll make a great wife and mother, Anne. Gilbert is a lucky man, and I know you'll make him happy.” “Thank you, Marilla.” She hugged her and kissed her cheek. “I guess it's time that you join the rest of the wedding party. Gilbert's waiting for you.” Marilla left Anne to take her seat. Anne took one last look at herself in the mirror and smiled. “You'll forever be Anne, Anne of Green Gables.” Anne grabbed her bouquet of lilies of the valley before heading to the back of the line and watched the others walk down the aisle in front of her. Diana was the first to make her way through the church followed by Fred, little Fred in his little tuxedo with the wedding rings, and Anne Cordelia in her pink flower girl's dress throwing rose petals. Anne took a deep breath before beginning her walk. The congregation stood up and turned to look at the blushing bride. While some had doubted her beauty before, they admitted that Anne made a marvelous bride. Anne looked up to see Gilbert ahead of her. She noticed that he looked nervous and was sweating and a bit teary eyed, but he definitely looked happy. His heart started pounding once he saw Anne all dressed in white, just like he imagined. She was his at last. There would be no more lonely days without her, and now they could begin a new journey together. Gilbert took Anne's arm and walked her up towards the minister. “Dearly beloved,” the minister began, “we are gathered here to witness the union of this man and this woman in holy matrimony.” The rest of the ceremony was blurred up to the “I Do's.” Anne and Gilbert glanced sideways at each other throughout the ceremony. Anne thought Gilbert looked ever so handsome and couldn't wait to spend the rest of her life waking up next to the man of her dreams. Gilbert looked at Anne, his angel dressed all in white, and still couldn't believe that after all this time she willingly agreed to be his wife and wanted him as much as he wanted her. “Do you, Gilbert, take Anne to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, to love and to cherish, for better or for worse, in sickness and in health for as long as you both shall live?” Gilbert looked straight into Anne's eyes. “I do.” “And do you, Anne, take Gilbert to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold, to love and to cherish, for better or for worse, in sickness and in health for as long as you both shall live?” With tears in her eyes, she looked at Gilbert and rubbed her thumb against his hand. “I do.” “With the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride.” Gilbert lifted his wife's veil over her head and kissed her. My wife, he thought. I love the sound of that. The happy couple walked up the aisle, making their first walk as husband and wife. They were genuinely in love with each other, and everyone could sense it. The reception area wasn't too far from the church, so the newly married couple decided to take in the country air and walk there. The guests eagerly awaited the arrival of the pair to congratulate them on their marriage. Surprisingly enough, Josie Pye was the first to congratulate them. “I'm so happy for you two,” she managed to say. “Take care.” Anne and Gilbert looked at each other. It was the first time Josie had said something nice to both of them in...forever. They didn't let that initial shock get in the way of the rest of the evening. For the couple's first dance, they chose “At Last,” a song they felt that truly conveyed their feelings for one another. The lyrics couldn't have been truer; it was as if the song was written especially for them. Gilbert led Anne out to the dance floor and began swaying to the beat of the music. They couldn't have asked for a better way to begin their marriage. At last my love has come along My lonely days over, and life is like a song At last the skies above are blue Well my heart was wrapped up in clover the night I looked at you I found a dream that I could speak to, a dream that I could call my own I found a thrill to press my cheek to, a thrill that I have never known Well You smile, you smile Oh and then the spell was cast, and here we are in heaven for you are mine at last I found a dream that I could speak to, a dream that I could call my own I found a thrill to press my cheek to, a thrill that I have never known Well You smile, you smile Oh and then the spell was cast, and here we are in heaven for you are mine at last Ooo yea You are mine, you are mine At last At last At last At last At the end of the song, Gilbert took his bride, spun her around, and kissed her. She smiled. “I love you, Gilbert Blythe, for as long as the stars and sun may shine and much, much longer.” This was where she was meant to be, and she wouldn't have it any other way. Last edited by ladybell101, 1/14/2007, 1:26 pm 1/14/2007, 1:25 pm Page:  1  2  3  4  Link to us   -  Blogs   -  Hall of Honour   -  Chat You are not logged in (login)      Board's time is: 11/28/2009, 8:32 pm