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joyceblythe
Mistress of Slates
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Registered: 12-2006
Posts: 191
Kindredness: 40 (+40/-0)
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Part XI
“He said he didn’t hear a thing?” Abby asked, sitting on the bed. Faith nodded happily. “I don’t believe it. He must have heard. Maybe he just didn’t want to tell you and make you uncomfortable.” Abby lay back.
“Or maybe he heard, but he doesn’t want to deal with it because he doesn’t care for me.” Faith lay down on her bed, her eyes troubled. She wasn’t sure if she wanted him to have been lying or not. When he had denied hearing anything, she had been overjoyed. Now that time had passed, she began to run over the night’s events in her mind until a million different scenarios sprung to mind. Only one of those scenarios involved Jem wishing to keep her comfortable. A tear dropped out of her eyes. An entire year of building a friendship had been ruined. Abby crossed the space between them and sat on the bed, stroking Faith’s hair. Her voice softened as she spoke.
“Faith, I’ve seen his eyes when we’re all together. He does care for you. Maybe he hasn’t realized it yet, or maybe he’s decided not to tell you for the same reason that you’ve decided to keep it from him. Listen, dear. If nothing else, you two have the best friendship that any two people could have. Don’t throw that away just because you think he doesn’t care as much as you’d like.” Faith nodded her head. “Listen. Maybe I was wrong, and he really didn’t hear. Jem isn’t the kind of man that would lie to you.” Abby lied. She was convinced that he had heard everything. She was also convinced that the two of them were too stubborn and noble for their own good. She knew that he must have lied to ensure Faith’s comfort and happiness. “Now go to sleep, Faith. You have to show me around tomorrow!” She grinned, and the girls snuggled into bed after turning off the lights.
The next morning, the two girls set out to see Glen St. Mary. The first stop, of course, was Rainbow Valley. Faith couldn’t wait to be there, under the old trees that had once been her place to play. She had always had the distinct impression that the most important moments of her life would be spent there. Abby fell in love with the place. When she had visited as a young girl, they had played there, but she had been too young to be struck by its beauty. She could see easily why Faith loved this place so much. It was wrapped up in romance and simplicity, and could have easily been inspiration to one of the great romantic poets. “Come on,” she almost whispered, hesitant to interrupt the beauty and silence. They left the place quietly, and all the worries that had plagued Faith the night before had melted away, leaving the happy young woman that had left Kingsport.
They made their way over to Ingleside, and Faith pointed out everything they passed. The door opened as they reached the gate. Jerry and Nan stood outside, and the two girls immediately knelt down behind the fence. Nan’s cheeks bore the blush of innocence and love as Jerry bent his head. Faith looked away from them, convinced that she shouldn’t be watching this. It was her brother and childhood friend. How could she spy on them like that? Abby, however, watched the couple with interest. She had briefly met Nan the night before, and had decided that the girl was definitely worthy of Jerry. Finally Nan had turned back, and Jerry was watching her until the door closed. Abby gestured to Faith to stand up fast. Jerry eyed the girls suspiciously when he saw them. “You didn’t see anything, did you?” he asked, almost worried.
“Just you kissing Nan,” Abby answered, grinning. Jerry’s eyes flew wide open. “Oh don’t worry like that, Jerry. Faith didn’t see anything. She turned away.” Jerry looked thankfully at his sister. “We didn’t want to interrupt you. Besides, we won’t tell anyone. I’m glad you’ve finally told her how you feel. Unlike some people, you took the plunge.” She glanced pointedly at Faith, and Jerry grinned.
“Speaking of which, Jem is in there. Maybe he’ll join you two ladies on your tour of the Glen. I have to go home. I promised Father I’d take Bruce to town and take care of him today so that Rosemary can have the day off. Faith, maybe you can convince Jem to leave the house. He’s just sitting around, reading. Mrs. Blythe is getting frustrated with him.” Abby laughed and Faith blushed. Jerry rolled his eyes. “Faith Meredith, now I’m saying this as your older brother. I saw you and Jem last night, and you were both avoiding each other like the plague. If this keeps up, I will be forced to throw you two together in some bizarre situation, and make you confess your feelings for each other.” Faith’s slightly pink cheeks became bright red. “Faith, just talk to him, alright?” She nodded. In a rare show of tenderness, he stroked his sister’s cheek and then hugged her. She really had grown up. Abby suddenly felt a little uncomfortable. Nan and Jerry was one thing. Faith and Jerry were something completely different. Abigail Anne Blake had had her share of beaus in her life. In that way she took after her mother. But never in her life had she experienced the tenderness of an older brother looking out for her. She was the eldest in her family, and even so, she had never been very close to her younger siblings. She looked away, and took in the scenery around her, until she felt a tap on her shoulder. She turned to find Jerry. “I’m going to head back. I’ll see you back home.” She nodded at him, smiling. “Have a nice time, and knock some sense into that sister of mine. Along with my roommate?”
“I will,” she promised with a grin. She took Faith’s arm, and they went up to the door and knocked. “So Jerry knows about you two,” she said quietly.
“Yes. He brought it up over Christmas holidays.” The door to Ingleside opened, and Faith was dismayed to see Jem standing right in front of her. “Hello, Jem,” she said quietly.
“Abby, Faith, it’s lovely to see you as usual.” His voice was slightly strained. He had had an uncomfortable night. The conversation he had overheard ran itself over in his head until he was exhausted, and convinced that she didn’t care for him any more than she did a brother. Abby sighed.
“Well, Jem, can we come in?” she asked, knowing very well that if she waited to be asked, they would never leave the porch. Both Jem and Faith were standing there, avoiding each other’s gaze.
“Oh! Of course! Sorry. Where are my manners? Please, come in,” he said holding the door for the two ladies. He saw the faint blush on Faith’s cheeks, and the way that she avoided his gaze. As she walked through, he took her arm. In a low, quiet voice he said, “Faith, we need to talk.”
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12/11/2006, 12:17 am
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joyceblythe
Mistress of Slates
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Registered: 12-2006
Posts: 191
Kindredness: 40 (+40/-0)
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Part XII
Anne Blythe came into the room with a great smile on her face. “Hello, dear,” she said quietly. She remembered when the girl had once visited, and remembered clearly her resemblance to Phil as a young woman.
“Hello Aunt Anne,” Abby said as the grin on her face spread. “How have you been?” She looked over at Jem and Faith, who both seemed nervous.
“Oh, we’ve been well. And your mother? I haven’t seen her in ages. How is she? I’m just dying to hear all the news since she left.” Jem smiled slightly.
“In that case, Mother, would you mind if Faith and I went out for a little bit? We need to talk over some things.” Anne nodded her consent, and Abby could barely contain the smile that threatened to spread across her face. “Abby, we’ll be back to take you around town.”
“Oh, take your time. I have six years of news to share with Mrs. Blythe. I can easily fill a long time.” She grinned at the couple, and Faith looked at her thankfully.
“Thank you, dear. I’ll be back soon,” she said kissing her friend’s cheek. Her eyes promised to Abby that she would tell her everything. She and Jem walked out of the room a bit awkwardly, and once they’d reached the gate of Ingleside, Jem offered his arm. She took it gratefully, feeling that if she didn’t have something to keep her steady, she’d faint from nervousness. Very soon they were at Rainbow Valley. None of the other Blythes or Merediths were around, so they sat down comfortably. Faith bit the inside of her lip. They had walked over in complete silence, each one wishing they could read the other’s thoughts. After a minute, she looked at Jem, who sat opposite her. “Jem?” He looked up, startled. “You wanted to talk,” she reminded him gently.
“Yes. I did.” He looked nervous, and Faith looked away. “Faith, I have a confession to make.” She looked at him expectantly. “Last night, I did overhear your conversation with Abby.” She gasped slightly and looked away, the mortification clear on her face. Jem almost wished he hadn’t said it. It hurt him to see her this uncomfortable. He sat down next to her and turned her face to look at him. “Faith, was Abby telling the truth? Was it…? Do you really care for me?” She looked at him, into his eyes, trying to read them, but his own confusion made it impossible. She closed her eyes and nodded. She took a deep breath.
“Yes, everything you heard was true. I’m sorry, Jem. I… I know that we’ve been wonderful friends. I hope we can still be.” She felt like crying. He would never want to speak to her after this. Expecting some sort of rejection, she closed her eyes and looked away. Never in all the scenarios she had imagined on the way to Rainbow Valley did she dream up what happened. Before she knew it, his arms were around her. “Jem?” she ventured.
“Faith, I think we’ve both been rather blind,” he explained simply. She looked up at him, her question clear in her eyes. “Yes,” he answered. She smiled, relief clear in her eyes. He didn’t despise her.
They talked for nearly an hour about the past year. Finally the discussion turned to what they would do. “You know,” Faith began cautiously, “I made a promise to myself on the first day of school. I promised myself that I wouldn’t tie you down so early.” Jem laughed.
“Faith, I don’t think I could ever feel tied down by you. But I did make a similar promise to myself. I still have 4 years until I finish medical school. I can’t possibly ask you to wait so long.” She nodded, letting her eyes fall to the ground. “We’re still young,” he continued hesitantly. “There’s always time.” She looked at him again.
“Yes, there is. I think….” Her voice trailed off as she reflected upon what she was about to say. She began again, this time with more confidence. “I think that we should continue on as we have for the past year. I don’t quite know if what I’m feeling is love. I think it is, but I don’t know.” Jem nodded. “We’re still young, and if fate means us to be together, she will make sure that that happens,” she said quietly. He pulled her close again, and it became their agreement. “Let’s get back,” she whispered. “Abby will be waiting.” He smiled as he stood and offered her his arm.
“Yes she will be waiting. But I think it’s your report of what happens that she’s waiting for, and not a tour of the Glen.” She smiled and laughed in agreement. The walk back was silent, but this time it was a comfortable silence. Neither was afraid to speak. They were simply content without it. As they reached the Ingleside gate, Faith turned to him.
“Jem, you’re welcome to come with us. I know Abby would like it, and Jerry said all you’ve been doing is reading all day.” He looked at her seriously.
“Are you sure? I know Abby will want to know all that’s gone on.” She nodded. “Then I’ll join you two. Mother will be glad to see me out of the house.” Faith laughed happily.
That evening, Jerry and Faith sat on the porch step as Abby was helping Rosemary in the kitchen. Faith finally decided to break the silence. “I spoke to Jem today,” she ventured. He looked at her, studied her face. He didn’t see a trace of tears, and breathed a sigh of relief.
“And?” he prompted.
“And we decided that we’re going to stay friends, and see what happens.” Jerry nodded slowly, processing this information.
“So he’s told you he feels the same way about you?” She nodded. “Are you content?” he asked.
“Yes,” she whispered. “Jerry, I know what you and Abby tell me. But Jem and I… we don’t know if this is love. We have a long way before we could get married even if that was our intention. There is still time.” Jerry smiled and nodded at his sister. At last they had talked to each other. Perhaps time was all they needed now. “And you and Nan?” she asked, changing subjects. “What exactly is happening there?”
“I honestly don’t know, Faith. I love her. I know that much. But she’s young. Younger than you, even. She intends to go to Redmond, so marriage is out of the question for a long time.” Jerry laughed a little bitterly. “We have to keep it a secret, too. With her only 16, and me 18, neither the Blythes nor Father and Rosemary would ever approve.” He patted his sister’s hand amiably. “Well, Faith. It looks like you and I are in the same situation. For the first time ever, I can’t say I know more than you.” Faith laughed. She loved how close she and Jerry had become during their year at Redmond. She leaned on her brother, allowing him to hold her. “What would I do without this sister to look after?” She laughed and looked up at him.
“You’ve only had to look after me once this year. And I’m not that little. I’m only a year younger than you.” He laughed and kissed her forehead. Her voice completely serious again, she looked ahead. “Jerry, thanks for being such a wonderful brother.”
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12/11/2006, 12:18 am
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joyceblythe
Mistress of Slates
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Registered: 12-2006
Posts: 191
Kindredness: 40 (+40/-0)
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Part XIII
It was a lazy day in the Glen, and Faith and Abby sat down in the cool shade of Rainbow Valley. Abby couldn’t believe that a month had already passed. All too soon, they would return to Kingsport, and once again begin to work like never before. After Faith and Jem’s little ‘talk,’ things had gone back to normal in the little group. A silence hung between the two girls, who were both too lethargic to speak. Suddenly Abby sat up and spoke. “Faith, what do you think of Ken Ford?” she asked. Faith rolled her eyes. She had heard this tone of voice before. Abby had used it when asking Faith about Jem.
“What do I think of him? Nothing really. I’ve grown up with him. Why?” Ken had been joining the girls and Jem on their walks and adventures lately. He and Abby did make a handsome pair, but Faith really could not see him with someone as bubbly and outgoing as Abby was. Abby turned and looked at her.
“He’s very handsome.” Faith resisted the urge to laugh.
“Yes, that he is. I believe that almost every girl in the Glen is after him right now. Excepting myself and Nan, of course.” Abby laughed. “Ken’s a nice enough boy. But, Abby, you barely know him. You met him only a month ago.” Abby sighed.
“I know, I know. I don’t think I care for him or anything like that. It’s more an attraction.” Faith smirked. “Faith, you know, the more time I spend with you and Jem, the more you two confuse me. You’ve both acknowledged that you care, yet you insist on staying friends?” Faith sighed. She’d had this conversation twice already with Abby, once with Jerry, and once again with Nan. “I know you say that you’re young and would wait too long, but why give up this opportunity?”
“Because I don’t know if I love him. I don’t want to be his sweetheart if I can’t be sure about that, Abby. It wouldn’t be fair to either of us. He feels the same way, you know. He told Jerry and me so.” Abby looked at her friend.
“Well, I could never do it. I must say, all the desirable men in this town seem to be in either the Blythe family, the Meredith family, or the Ford family. You must have quite a bit of competition.”
“Not really. There are those who consider themselves competition, but they really aren’t. Take Irene Howard, for example. She’s smitten with both Jem and Walter, and she really is a beautiful girl….”
“Not as beautiful as you, though,” Abby interrupted.
“Thank you. However, Jem and Walter wouldn’t give her a second thought. Too many of the attractive girls here either have mush for brains, or are too vain and ****y to attract anyone.” Abby laughed, giving Faith a look.
“And you Merediths, Blythes and Fords are simply perfect, are you not?” she teased.
“No, we aren’t. But we’ve all been raised by parents who thrive on intellectual pursuit and imagination. We’ve become like them. We like to read, we like to discuss things. Walter will someday be a brilliant poet. Jem will be a wonderful doctor, just like his father. Carl intends to teach and study bugs. Ken will be a wonderful writer, I’m sure. A girl like Irene Howard couldn’t hold a conversation with any of them. She concerns herself only with remaining popular with the girls, and finding a beau.” Abby nodded slowly. Suddenly Faith felt two hands close over her eyes. “Jem? Jerry? Who is this?” The hands flew off her face, and she turned to see Walter.
“And what are the two lovely ladies discussing?” he asked quietly.
“Abby was commenting on how the only desirable men in the glen are Merediths, Blythes and Ken. So I explained the phenomenon to her.”
“Ah, I see,” he said, dropping a kiss on her cheek. He sighed as he sat down in the valley. “Abby, are you enjoying your stay? I hope my brother hasn’t completely ruined it for you.” Abby laughed.
“Ruined it? Not at all. Your brother has finally spoken to my friend here and sorted things out. It’s made the stay even more idyllic.” Walter smiled lazily and leaned against a tree. He found he liked Abby. She was a wonderful person to be with, very beautiful, and intelligent. He had chatted with her often during the past month, and had come to the conclusion that she was one of the brightest girls he had ever met.
“Well, Faith, my dear. It seems that my sister and your brother are quite eager to make a match of it.” Faith grinned. “I was hoping that you and my brother would have made the same decision.” She groaned.
“Walter, not again. Do you know how many times I have had this discussion now?” Walter grinned. “If you want an explanation, go talk to Jem. I’m sure he’ll tell you everything.” The young man laughed at her frustration.
“Faith, don’t worry so much. I have talked to Jem, actually, and I think that your decision was quite soundly made. Besides, I would hate to see the your father’s reaction to you sweethearting at only seventeen!” Faith laughed. “So what else have you two ladies been discussing? Or is it too private for the ears of a young man like me?”
“We were actually discussing a certain Kenneth Ford,” Faith said before Abby could stop her. Abby blushed, and Faith grinned with devilish satisfaction.
“Faith Meredith, I don’t think I can forgive you for that,” Abby muttered darkly. Both Walter and Faith laughed merrily.
“Dearest Abby, it’s only fair, given the jabs you’ve handed to me about Jem. Besides, Walter’s a dear, trustable fellow.” She squeezed Walter’s hand with a friendly smile. He smiled and settled back into the tree at which he sat. Suddenly a wave of horror swept across his face. “Walter? Walter, what’s wrong?” The color had returned to his face, but the handsome, merry face that had joined them had changed. Faith was frightened.
“I saw… Faith, do you remember the Piper?” She nodded quietly. The Piper had always struck a little fear into her heart along with the excitement. “I saw him again. Dancing over in the field. Faith, I haven’t seen him since we were children. I fear he may be coming.” Faith shivered, and Abby’s face misted over in confusion. She had always suspected that Walter’s Piper would be something that would rip families apart. She’d always had a vision of her father’s face crumpling up, and her sister’s eyes filling with tears. Worse yet, she had once envisioned Mrs. Blythe, merry, jolly Anne Blythe, with tears falling from her eyes, inconsolable. Without thinking, she tightened her grip on Walter’s hand, and he patted it gently. “Faith, I’m sure it meant nothing.” She nodded, and convinced herself that he was right.
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12/11/2006, 9:37 pm
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joyceblythe
Mistress of Slates
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Registered: 12-2006
Posts: 191
Kindredness: 40 (+40/-0)
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Part XIV
Abby turned over in the bed she shared with Faith, and encountered a small little lump. With a shock, she sat up, and looked at the bed. She chuckled when she saw little Bruce lying there, his angelic little face peaceful. She ran a hand through his hair gently and lay back down, hugging the small body to herself. Something about the child in her arms gave her a sense of peace and a strange joy. She fell asleep with her arms around the little boy, and her fingers entangled in his hair.
When Faith woke up, she looked over at Abby, and saw the girl holding her little brother. She smiled slightly and decided not to wake them. She knew that Abby had little experience with small children, and she suddenly suspected that her friend was in fact a natural mother. Faith looked out the window, and saw that it was still dark. The clock indicated that the sun would be rising soon. She dressed quickly and threw a shawl around her shoulders. Then she slipped out of the house and crept down to Rainbow Valley. Something about this morning propelled her there. She wanted to watch the sun rise from the little play place of her childhood. As she approached, she could see another figure approaching her. Fear gripped her heart. It was dark, and she was alone. Forcing the panic down, she kept walking until she noticed the figure walking even closer.
“Faith?” it whispered. Jem! Thank goodness. Her heart slowed as her panic subsided.
“Yes,” she whispered, not wanting to break the silence of the morning. She waited until he was beside her and they walked into the valley, hand in hand. Wordlessly, he led her to a small grassy patch, and they sat down. The morning air was chilly, and Faith drew her shawl closer around her as she shivered. She felt an arm encircle her, and smiled a little. This was very familiar. She drew herself closer and lay her head on his shoulder gently. How many times had they driven back to her boarding house like this? Her friendship with Jem had been strained over the past two months. Their conversation had helped enormously, but now neither one knew how to act. Something in the morning air made things better. She felt the hand on her shoulder tighten almost imperceptibly. They sat in silence as the sun rose, and heard the birds begin to chirp. Once the sun had risen, the spell broke. She looked up at Jem and he smiled at her.
“Good morning,” he whispered. She smiled, and he stood, offering a hand. Something had changed, she noticed. The thin curtain that had hung between them, keeping them from finding that old friendship had been swept away with the sunrise, and they were once again old friends. She smiled gently and squeezed his hand once before setting back for the Manse. When she walked into the kitchen, Jerry stood there, buttering a toast. He noticed the shawl, and the shining eyes that greeted him.
“Been out?” he asked.
“Yes,” she replied, folding the shawl gently. “I woke up early and went to Rainbow Valley to watch the sunrise. Jem was there.” Jerry looked up at her. “It felt normal again. Like whatever has been different has gone away. We were comfortable again.” Jerry smiled. He knew that Jem liked to watch the sunrise. It was another of those inherited traits from his mother. Jerry could never believe how Jem would sit in the parlor, reading until the early morning, and wake up in time for the sunrise. He studied his sister’s face, and decided that he was glad his friend had been there. Faith lay her shawl on the table, and joined her brother. In complete silence, they made their breakfast and ate it, occasionally looking at one another and either smiling or laughing. Had anyone been watching, they would think that the two could read each other’s minds.
One by one, the residents of the Manse woke up and made their ways downstairs. Jerry and Faith, already full from their early breakfast, slipped out of the house for a walk. When they returned, the postman was approaching the Manse. “Faith! Jerry! There you two are,” Abby called, coming outside with Bruce. “I’ve been wondering where you were!” Faith approached with a letter in her hand.
“Dearest, Jerry and I woke up very early. We took a little walk. Here you are, Abby. There’s a letter for you here.” She handed the thin envelope to her friend and greeted her with a hug. “Come here, Bruce,” Faith said softly, wanting Abby to have a moment alone to read. The little boy ran into his sister’s arms, and she picked him up, holding him close to him. She kissed the little boy’s head gently. “Abby, come in when you’re ready.” Abby nodded as Jerry and Faith walked into the house. She opened the envelope quickly, wondering what it was.
“Dearest Abigail,” the letter read, “It’s James Stuart. Do you remember me? We went to Queen’s together.” The letter dropped from her hand, and she gasped in shock. A slow blush crept up her cheeks when she remembered him. She picked up the letter and kept reading. “We sat out in the gardens that one night at the dance that closed Queens. I remember that you had said you would be attending Redmond immediately. Well, after a year of teaching, I will be at Redmond this fall.” Abby dropped the letter again with another gasp. Her heart was racing. James Stuart had been the most amazing boy at Queen’s, and she’d met him at the last dance of the year. The two had sat in the gardens, talking for what seemed to be the longest time, and Abby, for the first time ever, had strongly felt that she cared for someone. Sighing, she picked up the letter and read on. He would be in Kingsport soon, and he wanted to see her. He remembered her from the dance, and he said he would remember it forever. Her face was bright red, and her heart was pounding in her chest. She walked around the front garden reading the letter over and over until it had sunk into her head. Faith came outside to see if everything was all right after a moment, and she found her friend excited and almost agitated. Abby handed her the letter wordlessly. Faith scanned it quickly and looked back up at her.
“Who is James Stuart?” she asked gently.
“James was a boy from Queens. Bright, funny, handsome, everything I could possibly ask for in a beau. At the last dance of the year, he asked me to dance, and then we sat out in the gardens for most of the dance, just talking. Faith, he… he’s the only boy I’ve ever felt I could care for. And it seems he might feel the same.” Faith laughed.
“Yes, Abby, it does seem that way. I’ll have to meet your James when we return. But you have a full month until you must meet this James, and we have the opinions of at least five eligible men to help you get ready to see him. Now come inside and eat some lunch with us.” She put her arm around Abby and led her inside.
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12/11/2006, 9:38 pm
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joyceblythe
Mistress of Slates
Global user
Registered: 12-2006
Posts: 191
Kindredness: 40 (+40/-0)
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Part XV
Faith stood in front of the mirror. She was wearing a new dress that Anne Blythe had given her. She almost loved it more than the old cream-colored one. “Faith Meredith, will you hurry up? The Blythes will be here any minute!” Rosemary called into the room. Abby went to the mirror and finished arranging her friend’s hair before she arranged her own. They heard the doorbell ring downstairs. “Faith!” Rosemary yelled. “They’re here! Will you please get ready soon?” The sound of many voices filled the house. Faith and Abby finally emerged from the room and ran downstairs. The Blythes and Fords were already there, and the parlor of the Manse reminded Faith of a zoo. She caught Jem’s eye, and he winked as she came down the stairs. “There you are! Now we can all leave.” Rosemary’s kind face showed a tiny hint of annoyance, and Faith winced. They were heading to the hall for the Summer Dance, and Rosemary was almost at her wits’ end, trying to keep the three families together.
“Rosemary, dear, let’s just go. We’ll all sort ourselves out. Don’t you fret,” Anne said gently. Rosemary nodded. Ken found Abby and she took his arm with a smile. Nan Blythe noticed a slightly jealous glance in Rilla’s eyes, but dismissed it. Rilla was still only thirteen, and much too young for a beau. Once their parents were out of sight, she took Jerry’s arm and lay her cheek against her shoulder. Jem grinned as he offered his arm to Faith, and soon, the three families were on their way.
“You look lovely, Faith,” Jem said softly. She blushed and looked up at him. In only a few days, they would head back to Kingsport. Abby could barely wait to see James. “So, is Abby ready to meet this young man who wrote her?” Jem asked merrily. Faith smiled.
“I don’t think Abby will ever feel ready for it. She’s been worrying over it for quite a while now. Poor dear. I’m happy for her, though. I think she really cares for him, and it was quite sweet of him to write.” Jem smiled. He was a little relieved. If Abby had a new fellow, then she would stop teasing poor Faith all the time about him.
“Well, she does know that Jerry and I will have to approve of this Stuart fellow. After all, she has become like our little sister as well.” Faith grinned, and couldn’t resist the urge to tease him.
“As well? So you think of me as your little sister, Jem?” she asked innocently. He looked at her seriously, and she blushed.
“Faith Meredith, I believe you know exactly how I think of you,” he answered softly. She smiled and looked at the ground. “But if we’re going to continue being ‘friends,’ I believe we should avoid discussing that.” She nodded, and he grinned.
“Sorry, Jem. I couldn’t resist.” He laughed and nodded at her. “Ready to go back to Redmond?” she asked conversationally.
“Yes. It will be a tough year, though. I’ll be applying to medical school this year.” Faith looked down. She knew that there was a possibility he would go away for medical school. She hoped he would stay in Kingsport.
“Have you any idea where you’d like to be for that?” she asked hopefully. He smiled, knowing exactly what she was thinking.
“I’d like to be in Kingsport. It would be lovely to stay around the old city. I’ve really learned to love it.” She smiled. “Besides, I don’t think I’d like school much without you and Jerry around. I’d miss you both terribly.” Faith took his hand and squeezed it.
They had finally reached the dance. Suddenly, Jem felt a little tugging on his pant leg. He looked down and saw a small boy looking up at him expectantly. “Hey there, Bruce,” he said quietly. Bruce reached his arms up, waiting for the tall man to pick him up. Jem laughed and obliged the little boy. He scooped him up into one arm, never letting go of Faith’s arm. Una, who was running after the little boy, smiled at the sight. Little Bruce loved Jem Blythe, and looked up to him no end.
“Jem, when I grow up, I wan be jus like you,” he said adorably. Jem laughed and hugged the little boy closer to himself. Bruce responded by tightening his little arms around the older boy’s neck. Faith smiled. Bruce seemed to bring out the parent in everyone he met, and she had learned very quickly that both Jem and Abby would someday make wonderful parents.
“Come here, buddy,” she said merrily, taking her little brother into her own arms. “You know, after I’ve danced the first dance with Jem, because that’s our tradition, I will simply have to dance with you. Would you like that, sport?”
“Yes!” he said enthusiastically. Jem laughed.
“What did I tell you, Faith? No one will turn down the lovely Miss Meredith.” She shot him a happy glance, but almost glared. What if her father had heard? Jem laughed again. The dance was a great success, and the four Kingsport-bound youth felt that their summer had been everything they could have desired.
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12/11/2006, 9:39 pm
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joyceblythe
Mistress of Slates
Global user
Registered: 12-2006
Posts: 191
Kindredness: 40 (+40/-0)
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Part XVI
“Abigail Anne Blake, will you please just go over there and say hello? He lives across the street for goodness’ sake! You’ve been worrying about this for a month now!” Abby was pacing in Faith’s room, and Faith was finally about to scream. “Abby, at least I would go over to Jem’s place!”
“Oh, but what if I seem too eager? Faith, I can’t do it. I’ll seem like I’m trying to get him.” Faith rolled her eyes as someone knocked.
“Come in!” she yelled, exasperated. Jem and Jerry walked in and raised their eyes at the frustration on both girls’ faces. “Jem, Jerry, will you please tell this girl that she is being absolutely ridiculous! She refuses to go across the street to James’ boarding house and say hello!” The two young men laughed.
“Abby, are you worried?” Jem asked gently. She was pacing, and shooting death glares at Faith. Jem smiled. “There really isn’t much to worry about. I would definitely say that young Mr. Stuart likes you. He took the trouble to find out where you were, to write to you. Why would he do that if he wasn’t interested in you?” Abby was still pacing, and Faith refused to look at her. Finally Jerry grabbed the girl and sat her on the bed.
“Abby Blake, stop this right now! You’re making all of us dizzy. Now you are in a room with three people who have dealt with exactly what you are dealing with. If you don’t go over there right now, we will be forced to drag you over there kicking and screaming. Are you going?” Abby looked up at him, her eyes full of fear. Jerry sighed as the other two held in laughter. “Abby, listen. You really have nothing to worry about. If he isn’t sweet and polite immediately, well, Jem and I can always take care of him, because he’s an idiot. Look at me. You’re a beautiful, funny, intelligent girl. At that dance at Queen’s, he saw something that he liked, and it made enough of an impression on him, that over a year later, he found out where to write to you, and chose to write. He took quite a risk there. Now, no matter what, you owe him that visit.” She sighed heavily.
“I’m going, I’m going. But you three had better be here when I get back.” They nodded as the girl stood up and walked out of the room. A second later, she was back. “Do I look alright?” she asked nervously.
“Abby, you’ve never looked anything but stunning. Now go!” Jem answered. She disappeared again, and Jem rolled his eyes. “Faith, if you were ever like this…” he muttered. Jerry laughed, and Faith almost glared.
“Jem Blythe, you’ve known me for years. You know I wouldn’t be like that.” He nodded in acknowledgement, and shook his head.
Abby had been led up to the young man’s room, and she stood outside for nearly a minute. She was a walking, talking bundle of nerves. Taking a deep breath, she knocked on the door. “Just a minute!” someone called from inside. Then the door opened. “Abigail!” he exclaimed. His face broke into a broad smile. Abby smiled gently and offered her hand. He took it and kissed her wrist. “I was hoping you’d come by. I didn’t know where you live. Come on in,” he said nervously. He opened the door wider, and allowed her to step in. “How have you been?” he asked, wishing he had something more interesting to say.
“I’ve been very well, actually. Redmond has treated me well, and I spent the last summer on PEI. And you? What did you do the past year?” She wanted to kick herself. Couldn’t she think of anything else?
“I was teaching at a local school. I wanted to take a break from school for a year.” Abby smiled. “Do you have an escort for the Welcome Back dance?” he asked confidently. She looked at the table, blushing. Blushing? Abby didn’t blush. At least she hadn’t in years. The last time she remembered really blushing was when she was with James in the Queens Academy gardens.
“Actually, I don’t,” she replied. She didn’t want to appear over anxious, but then Jerry’s words hit her. She owed him a little. “But, if you were to ask…” she said, lowering her eyes. He smiled.
“Abigail Blake, would you accompany me to the dance?” he asked quietly. “I’d be honored if you would.”
“Yes,” she answered, smiling at him. “Oh! I meant to tell you. I live just across the street. At Mrs. Alec Andrews’ boarding house. So if you ever wanted to drop by, you’d be more than welcome,” she said confidently. He smiled.
“I’ll do that. However, I do regret that I must meet my father in only five minutes. So if I may drop by later?” She nodded, looking down. Was she that transparent that he wanted her to leave? She was sure he regretted his invitation. Suddenly his hand was under her chin, tilting her head up. He looked into her eyes. He could see what she thought. “Abigail, I really do have to leave. I promise you that I am not making excuses. I would love nothing more than to sit here with you for hours. However, my father is leaving tomorrow morning. Can I take you to dinner tomorrow night?”
“Yes,” she smiled. “I’d love that.” He smiled and kissed her hand before opening the door for her. “Goodbye, James.”
“Goodbye, Abigail. I’ll pick you up tomorrow. Until then.” He beamed at her. She slipped out quietly, and made her way downstairs. James closed the door with a smile. He had fallen in love with Abigail Blake that one night and his feelings hadn’t changed a bit. She was still the most beautiful and intelligent creature he had met.
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12/11/2006, 9:40 pm
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joyceblythe
Mistress of Slates
Global user
Registered: 12-2006
Posts: 191
Kindredness: 40 (+40/-0)
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Part XVII
“Jerry, stop! Gerald Meredith, I… will… never… forgive….” Faith’s voice cut off as a fit of giggles seized her. She could have killed her brother. How embarrassing it was to be tickled in front of company. He knew that she was ticklish since childhood. Jem was laughing at the scene in front of him. He felt sorry for his friend, though. The poor girl’s face was turning a brighter shade of red than ever he had seen. Finally, Jerry stopped. Faith immediately got up and went as far away from him as possible. Jem grinned and put a comforting arm around her. She was absolutely fuming, and he could see that she was almost upset to the point of tears. Fearing for Jerry’s life, he shooed his roommate away.
“Faith, don’t get angry. He was just playing around.”
“It was humiliating.” Her cheeks were flaming red, and a tear dripped down from her eye. Gently, he wiped it away.
“Don’t be embarrassed. It’s only me in the room.” She looked at him incredulously. “Faith, listen. You know what I think about you. Seeing your brother tickling you isn’t going to change that opinion one bit. Now I just know how to make you laugh someday when we’re married and you’re about to kill me for coming home late,” he teased. A smile tugged at her lips, but she refused to smile. “Smile, Faith.” She shook her head, and turned away, trying desperately to keep a straight face. She couldn’t look at him. The teasing expression in his eyes would set her off immediately. “Faith, just smile for me. Please?” Sighing, she gave in and started laughing. “There we go. Jerry, it’s safe now!” Jerry came back into the room. He looked frightened.
“Faith, I’m sorry. Truly, I am. I was just joking around.” She grinned and went to her brother, drawing him into a hug. He let his arms encircle her hesitantly.
“I’ll forgive you. But if you pull that ever again, especially in front of Jem, I will murder you,” she whispered seriously. Jerry laughed and pulled her in closer. The door opened, and Abby slipped in. Faith whirled around. “Well? How did it go?” she demanded.
“Wonderfully,” Abby replied dreamily. Faith grinned. “We’re having dinner tomorrow, and he asked me to the Welcome Back Dance.” Faith clapped her hands in glee, and the two young men smiled.
“Well, now that means I’m going to have to find someone else to take. Abby, what will I do without my beautiful escort?” Jerry asked playfully.
“Write to Nan, and ask her to come,” Abby answered saucily. Jem frowned.
“No. Nan is still too young,” he said seriously. Jerry raised his eyebrows, Abby hid a smile, and Faith laughed.
“Jem, Nan is sixteen. You had no qualms about taking me to the dance last year, and I was only sixteen,” Faith reminded him. Jem looked at her, frowning. “Oh, I understand. It’s that big brother syndrome, isn’t it?” She was teasing him mercilessly.
“No. You were at Redmond, living here. She’s at home. She’s too young to be traveling so far simply to attend a dance with a young man. Sorry, Jerry.” Jerry waved a hand, indicating his understanding. He was trying desperately not to laugh. Abby looked away, trying to mask the giggles that shook her body. As always, Faith laughed out loud. Jem glared at her. That teasing smile of hers was what most attracted him to her. He forced the thought away. He couldn’t afford to entertain it. It would only lead to anguish when he had to turn back to that promise. Faith suddenly caught the look in his eyes, and realized that she needed to be quiet. “Abby, is he everything you expected?” Jem asked, changing the subject.
“Oh yes. He’s as handsome as ever, and just as charming. And he was polite. So you boys don’t need to protect me.” She winked at them, and they all laughed.
“Well, girls, Jerry and I should be on our way. We just wanted to stop in and see that everything was going well. We’ll see you soon.” They nodded, and said their goodbyes.
“Oh, Faith! Faith, I don’t know what to do. He’s so wonderful.” Faith smiled as Abby sat down opposite her. “Just before I left, he had said that he had to leave to see his father, and I was convinced he was making an excuse to get rid of me. But before I could let that sink in, he took my face and told me that he would have rather stayed and chatted, but that it was his father’s last night, and that he would love to take me to dinner tomorrow. Faith, he’s so… I can’t explain it. But the way he looks at you. His eyes.” Faith patted the girl’s back.
“Dearest, I’m glad. Now you see there was no cause for concern. Was he glad to see you at first?” She felt she knew the answer, but she thought she’d ask anyway.
“I think so. He grinned as soon as he opened the door and saw me. He calls me Abigail. I remember telling him at the dance that everyone calls me Abby, but he said that Abigail was a beautiful name, and that if I didn’t mind, he’d rather call me that. Faith, what do you think of the name Abigail Anne Stuart?” Faith burst out laughing.
“My dear girl, it sounds fine. But you’re already thinking of marriage after meeting him twice? Jem and I have known each other for years, been attracted to each other for one year, and admitted our feelings three months ago. And we still aren’t even thinking of marriage.”
“Faith, I think I love him,” Abby said quietly. Faith’s jaw dropped. “I know you’ll think I’m silly to say that. But I sat out with him for hours at that dance. We danced the first dance, and he didn’t walk me home until after it had ended. I can see myself building a house and a family with him. Is that silly?”
“No, dear. I just want you to be careful. I don’t want you to get hurt, or to realize too late that you were wrong.” Abby smiled and hugged her friend.
“You’re the best friend ever, Faith.”
“So are you, dearest. So… you have a James now as well. What a strange coincidence.”
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12/11/2006, 9:41 pm
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joyceblythe
Mistress of Slates
Global user
Registered: 12-2006
Posts: 191
Kindredness: 40 (+40/-0)
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Part XVIII
Faith knocked on Abby’s door once again. “Abby, come on. The boys will be here any minute.” Sighing, she opened the door. Abby sat at the mirror, straightening her hair almost compulsively. Faith went to the mirror and removed the girl’s hands. “Abby, you look amazing. You’re absolutely stunning. Now stop worrying.” A knock sounded at the door. “Come in!” Faith called. The door opened. “Emily dear! Come on in. The boys should be here soon.” Emily Flag walked in. She was a year older than them, and lived in there boarding house. She and Jerry were good friends, and would be going to the dance together. Just as she was about to shut the door, Jem’s face came into view. “Jem! There you are. Will you please tell this silly girl that she looks fine?” Faith stood and went to the door to greet the boys. Abby stayed at the mirror. “I’ll keep Mr. Stuart company. You and Jerry go knock some sense into her, please?” Jem laughed and kissed her hand.
“Come on, Jerry. We have work to do.” Jerry laughed and hugged his sister before going into the room. “Abby Blake, you really are the most ridiculous girl I’ve ever met. You look incredible. Now what are you worrying about?” Faith laughed and walked outside. She was met by a tall man with dark hair and two of the bluest eyes she’d ever seen.
“I’m Faith Meredith. I assume you are James?” She offered a hand, and he kissed her knuckles politely.
“Yes. Abigail has told me a lot about you.” Faith laughed. “Don’t you worry. It was all good.” She smiled.
“Well, I should hope so. And you live in Halifax, am I right?” He nodded, smiling. “Well, that must be nice. Being so close to Abby.”
“Yes, it will be. I must confess, it took me quite a while to get up the nerve to find out where she lived. And then when I called on her house, her mother told me she was on the island, staying with a friend! Well, I nearly panicked, and then I decided to take the plunge and write her.”
“Well, I know she appreciated it. I trust you met my brother, Jerry and my friend, Jem?”
“Yes, I saw them as I walked in. Abigail had described them to me, and I immediately recognized Jem’s hair.” Faith hid a smile. She happened to love that hair, but she kept that to herself. “They are nice fellows, despite their threats.”
“Threats?”
“Oh yes. They told me that I seemed like a nice enough chap, but that if I dared to hurt Abigail, that they would personally see that I never hurt another girl in my life.” Faith laughed as the door opened. Jem offered his arm to her.
“Jem Blythe, I understand you’ve been threatening this young man?” She looked at him half seriously, her eyes dancing, and crossed her arms. Jem looked nervous. He knew that she was joking with him, but he still had no idea of what to say. Jerry hid a smile, and Emily had an arm across her stomach, and her other hand over her mouth, trying to hide the laughter that shook her. Abby simply looked confused. “Well? Aren’t you going to say anything?” Faith asked, arching one eyebrow.
“Why don’t you tell me what you want me to say. That way we can all leave.” Her face broke into a smile, and she took his arm graciously. They led the way out, and Jem squeezed her hand. “You aren’t angry, are you?” he asked, a little worried. She looked up at him, her eyes shining.
“No,” she replied, squeezing his hand in return. “I was just teasing. He seems like a nice fellow, though.”
“Yes, he does. I hope he and Abby will be happy.” She smiled gently, and hid a laugh. “What?” Jem probed. He could see that she was hiding something. “Faith,” he said, his voice carrying a low and dangerous tone, “what are you hiding from me?” He drew her closer and covered her hand with his, letting his fingers brush over her stomach in warning. “Faith Meredith, unless you want to get tickled right here, right now, I advise you to tell me what you know.” She smiled and shook with laughter. “I warned you,” he teased.
“Don’t!” she exclaimed. “Alright, I’ll tell you. Just don’t. Please?” He nodded, his eyes twinkling merrily. “Abby told me she thinks she loves him,” she whispered. He grinned broadly. “Don’t say a word. She’d be mortified if he found out. But Jem, I think he feels the same way.”
“They do make a handsome couple,” he acknowledged. “A very handsome couple, indeed.”
Abby and James lingered behind the rest of the group, and Abby laughed lightly. “What is it?” James asked, smiling at her.
“We’ve taken Jem and Faith’s place. They used to always hang behind Jerry and me, talking and having little moments alone. Now we’re doing that.” He smiled and squeezed her hand. “James, I’m so glad you wrote me.”
“So am I,” he said, looking into her eyes. “So am I. Abigail, will you save the last dance for me?” he asked, a little nervously.
“Of course! I’d love nothing more.” She smiled happily. “I’d save them all for you, but I must dance at least one dance each with Jem and Jerry. It’s tradition.”
“Then I suppose I’ll dance with Faith and Emily as well?” She smiled up at him.
“If you want. I suppose your other option is to sit in a corner pining away for me as I dance merrily with my two protectors.” He laughed at the teasing note in her voice, and was determined nothing should go wrong.
Halfway through the dance, Jem was dancing with Abby, and Faith with James. Faith looked at her partner seriously. “So, what do you think of Abby?” she asked bluntly. A smile came over his face.
“Truthfully, I think I love her. Did she tell you how we met?” Faith nodded, too excited for words. “Well, that night was absolutely amazing. I have never before met a woman that was so wonderful, compassionate, and so….” His voice trailed off as he searched for the right expression.
“Kindred?” Faith suggested. He smiled and nodded. “Do you think she returns your feelings?”
“I hope she does,” he said, a wistful expression taking over in the blue eyes. “Sometimes I think she does. But then I see her with you and Jem and Jerry, and she seems to be different with you. She seems a little more comfortable, and I love her even more that way.”
“Maybe she’s just shy,” Faith said quietly. “You see me right now, and I seem very confident and even a little tomboyish, don’t I?” He nodded. “Well, when I first came to Redmond, the first time I saw Jem after finding I fancied him, you wouldn’t have recognized me. I was shy, giggly, even a complete girly weakling at times.” James laughed. “My point is that when you’re discovering something new, something unexplored, you will step out of yourself at times, worried that the real, boisterous, overconfident person that you are will ruin everything. Can you honestly tell me that you’re always as quiet as you’ve been tonight?”
“No, I can’t,” he smiled. Something about Faith made it easy for him to talk to her and confide in her. “I’m usually much more like that boy you’re so crazy about.” She laughed. “I suppose I’m just trying hard not to ruin everything.”
“Believe me, it would be hard for you to do that. Just relax and be yourself. Let Abby see you with your guard down.” He smiled at her and nodded.
“Abby, you seem tense tonight,” Jem said, twirling her around the room. “Is everything alright?”
“Jem, I’m just so nervous. I’m nervous he won’t like the silly, flirty, confident little girl that I am.” She looked down at the ground, and Jem took his hand from her waist to make her look up at him.
“He will. I don’t know anyone who has been able to resist that person, Abby. Abby, don’t do this to yourself. You aren’t like this. You aren’t someone who doubts herself. You’re the confident, headstrong girl that forced Faith and me to talk to each other and you’re the bubbly and silly person that got Faith through the first few weeks of school last year. Without you in the house, I don’t know what she would have done. She needed someone there, and that silly, flirty, confident woman that you fear so much is what helped your best friend through a lot of loneliness.” She looked at him gratefully. “Don’t sell yourself short, Abigail Blake. You’ll be doing everyone a great disservice.” She took a deep breath.
“So what should I do? You and Faith had it a little easier. You were already good friends.” He grinned.
“All you have to do is relax and be yourself. Just be the girl that we all know and love.” She smiled and nodded at him, her eyes filled with thanks.
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12/11/2006, 9:41 pm
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joyceblythe
Mistress of Slates
Global user
Registered: 12-2006
Posts: 191
Kindredness: 40 (+40/-0)
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Part XIX
Faith sighed in frustration. She was extremely close to throwing her chemistry text out the window when she heard a quick knocking on the door. “Come in!” she yelled. Abby bounced into the room. “Yes?” she asked impatiently.
“I’m going out with James tonight. So can we bump our date to lunch tomorrow?” Faith winced at the cheerful tone.
“Sure. Fine. Have fun tonight. Bye.” Abby raised her eyebrows, but rather than try to deal with an irate Faith Meredith, she slipped out. Faith couldn’t concentrate. She slammed the book on the table, a tear dripping down her face. She picked up the letter she had just received and read it for what seemed the millionth time. Finally she put the letter down, and stuffed her notebook along with her text into her book-bag.
When Jerry opened the door, the last thing he expected to see was his sister on the verge of a complete breakdown. He ushered her in quickly and took her bag. “Faith? Faith, calm down. Tell me what’s wrong.” She looked up at him.
“What’s wrong? Well, first of all, I have this chemistry exam tomorrow, and I hate chemistry, and I don’t understand it one bit, and I can’t concentrate at all. Then there’s the fact that my best friend and study partner is too involved in her love life to actually study with me! Oh, and did I mention that I’m worried sick over Bruce’s illness, and that I haven’t slept properly in days?” She felt like she could scream. Jerry put his arms around her and hugged her as tightly as he could. “Jerry, I can’t do this. I just can’t. It’s too much.” She started to cry, and he just patted her back soothingly.
“Faith, you’ll be fine. You’ve gotten through this before, and you’ll get through again. Bruce will be fine. He’s a strong kiddy. You need to take care of yourself.” She was shaking. Jerry heard the door open and close, and he looked up to see Jem walking in. Faith wiped her eyes and turned around.
“Faith? What’s wrong?” Jem dropped his bag on the table and went straight to his friend. She shook her head, looking at the ground. Jerry caught his friend’s eye, and Jem nodded, grabbing his things and disappearing into the bedroom. After some time, Jerry ducked his head into the room. Jem looked up. “Is she alright?”
“She will be. Could you help her out? She’s worked up about a chemistry exam, and you know that I’m dismal at chemistry.” Jem laughed and shut his notebook.
“Thanks.”
“Of course.” When he emerged, Faith sat at the table, much calmer than before, her eyes red from crying. “Faith, would you like some help?” She looked up from her books and nodded gratefully. For more than an hour, they sat over the book, Jem explaining, and Faith listening, taking in everything. Finally, Jem sat back in his chair. “Faith, I believe you understand. You’ve got it.” She smiled.
“Thank you, Jem.” He shrugged. “You have no idea what a help you are.” He grinned at her.
“I try,” he said quietly. She laughed. “Faith, what else has been bothering you?” he asked thoughtfully. “Is it Abby?” She nodded wordlessly. “Hasn’t been much of a friend lately?”
“It’s not that. She’s as sweet as ever, but she’s so wrapped up in her life with James. She doesn’t have any time for her old friend.” Jem reached out and took her hand.
“James is something new in her life. He’s new and exciting, and she loves him. They’re still getting to know one another. I promise you she isn’t trying to ignore you.”
“I know. I always think how I was never like that, but I suppose that’s because we’ve been friends so long.” Jem looked down at the table a little uncomfortably. “Sorry. I know I shouldn’t mention it.” He shook his head.
“Don’t worry. No need to fret about it.” He squeezed her hand. “Listen, why don’t you eat dinner here with Jerry and me? Abby won’t be home, and you’ll at least have our company. And tomorrow, when you see Abby, talk to her.” She nodded.
“I will.”
“And Faith? Don’t stay up all night studying. You know this material. Get some sleep.” She grinned.
“Yes, Dr. Blythe,” she replied saucily. He laughed and slapped her hand lightly.
Hours later, Abby came out of her room as she heard Faith’s door unlocking. “Hi. I’ve been waiting up. Where were you?”
“At Jem and Jerry’s,” Faith replied unemotionally. She slipped into her room and shut the door on her friend. Abby went back to her room, confused and hurt. She had no idea why Faith was so cold with her. Forcing it out of her mind, she looked at the bed and smiled at the sight of the little box that sat on her pillow.
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12/11/2006, 9:42 pm
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joyceblythe
Mistress of Slates
Global user
Registered: 12-2006
Posts: 191
Kindredness: 40 (+40/-0)
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Part XX
Faith felt someone tapping her shoulder and she turned to see Abby looking bright and cheerful. “Faith! There you are. I’ve been looking everywhere for you.” Faith forced a smile. “Come on. I’m taking you to lunch. It’s my treat. I have the most wonderful thing to show you!” She took the girl’s arm and dragged her off. Once they were sitting at the table, Abby took a good look at her friend. “Faith, is everything alright? You seemed upset yesterday, and you haven’t said a word today.” Abby took her hand and squeezed it gently. Faith could feel her anger slipping away at the warmth in her friend’s voice. The shield that kept her from feeling hurt was stripped away, and she suddenly felt horrible.
“I’m fine.” Abby looked at her guiltily, not believing a word.
“I know I’ve been busy with James. I’m sorry if you felt left out. I never meant to hurt you, Faith. I swear it.” Faith forced a smile and nodded at her friend.
“I know. But I’m fine. I never felt left out,” she lied. “So what is so wonderful that you have to show me?” Abby grinned and pulled a small box out of her purse. She opened it to reveal a beautiful silver and amethyst necklace. Faith gasped, and her hand flew to her mouth. “Did… Did James give that to you?”
“Yes! Isn’t it beautiful? Faith, I’m so happy that it scares me sometimes.” Faith had finally had enough. She couldn’t sit there anymore. She couldn’t just listen to Abby going on and on about James.
“Abby, I’m sorry,” she said coldly, “but I can’t stay. I have too much work. I’ll either be in my room or over at Jerry and Jem’s if you need me. Goodbye.” Abby looked up at her, completely confused and angry. This was supposed to be their time to chat and catch up. She felt like they hadn’t really talked for months. Faith pulled her coat on and walked out quickly, braving the cold, white snow.
A few hours later, Abby burst into Faith’s room, her face contorted with rage. Faith looked up from her book calmly. She was tired of getting angry at Abby, and she was tired of dealing with it. “Did you have a nice day?” she asked calmly.
“A nice day? How could I have had a nice day? First we had the hardest exam I have ever had to take, and then my best friend walks out on our lunch date without any explanation! I have been sitting in my room for hours trying to figure it out, Faith!” Faith shrugged. She felt completely spent emotionally. She had gone straight from the restaurant to Jem and Jerry’s room, and proceeded to cry for an hour before being able to actually think about doing schoolwork. “Faith, why did you run out like that?”
“I didn’t have time. I told you that. I had to study.” She bit the inside of her lip, trying to keep herself from crying again.
“We made this date a long time ago, Faith. You could have planned around it.” Abby’s voice was low and angry, and Faith finally snapped.
“No, Abby! We agreed to go out last night. But you decided yesterday that you had other plans. I’m sorry, but I refuse to sit here and keep my schedule open for you when you feel that it’s convenient. Ever since that dance, you’ve acted like I barely even exist! I spent the last two days at Jem and Jerry’s because I actually feel like a person there. They talk to me, Abby. They make sure that I am all right. They help me when I’m feeling bad.” Abby stood there, her jaw hanging open. Faith sighed, feeling horrible about snapping. “Look, Abby. I’m happy for you and James. Believe me. But at the same time, it feels like you’re giving me up for him. And that hurts a lot. I know you two love each other, but can’t you make time for me once in a while? We have only two weeks until the holidays, and we have barely spoken since the Welcome Back Dance. Haven’t you even noticed that?” Abby looked down at the ground shamefully.
“Faith, I’m sorry. Truly I am. I don’t know what came over me. You’ve always been a great friend, in spite of Jem, and then… Can you forgive me?” Faith held out a hand, and Abby grasped it. The two girls sat like that for a long time, holding hands and thinking. Finally, Abby got up silently, and returned with all her work, and her nightclothes. They worked together in silence, looking up once in a while, and when they were done, they sat on Faith’s bed and talked until the sun came up.
The next morning, Jem and Jerry knocked on Faith’s door, waiting for her to come out walking with them. When there was no answer, Jerry pushed open the door, and saw his sister and Abby fast asleep, both seeming extremely content. He smiled and closed the door, happy that they had finally talked.
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12/11/2006, 9:44 pm
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