Disclaimer: Any use of the title, dialogue, and plot is strictly prohibited. Anne of the Island belongs to L. M. Montgomery.
The days following Gilbert's proposal were among the happiest in Anne's life; now she knew what it meant to be truly loved by someone who felt the same affection. What had transpired between her and Roy was merely blind love distorted by rose-colored glasses because she thought him to be the ideal man, but it had always been Gilbert deep down even if she refused to admit it. When receiving the news of his fever, it was then that Anne allowed herself to acknowledge the fact that she loved him and could not imagine the prospect of losing another person; Matthew's unexpected death had caused her great grief and, while she silently hoped Gilbert would recover successfully, a part of her feared the worst. Fortunately her fears were never realized and, when the young man came to call, she felt a great exaltation of joy well up in her heart.
He was a frequent visitor to the house where he was received warmly by all and would often bring bouquets of roses or other beautifully arranged flowers for his girl; these she accepted gratefully and took great care in finding a vase that suited them. Even Marilla and Mrs. Lynde had to admit Gilbert was indeed a true gentleman both in action in speech, for he never spoke in an uncouth manner or gazed at Anne in a way other boys might have been wont to do. The twins, too, were fond of Gilbert and, on occasions when they were out with the couple by the lake, Davy would regale the young man with stories of what he had gotten into at school, causing him to laugh and chuckle greatly at the boy's antics.
On one cloudy November afternoon, Anne was in the kitchen with Marilla and the twins, setting the table for tea when a familiar knock sounded.
"Why, that's Gilbert Blythe!" Marilla commented, turning toward the door.
Anne looked up from the cookies she had been frosting and, after checking herself to make sure she was presentable, opened the door to a smiling Gilbert.
He slowly walked toward her and pulled her into an embrace. "Good afternoon, Miss Shirley."
"Good afternoon, Mr. Blythe."
He turned upon hearing the sound of glass being taken out of the cupboard. "Is everything all right in there?"
"Oh, yes. Marilla and I were preparing tea before you came. Speaking of which," she added, gesturing inside, "would you like to come in?"
The young man considered for a moment. Finally he said, "If you insist. I don't want to intrude—"
"You're not intruding, Gilbert. We'd be thrilled to have you join us." Taking his hand, she enthusiastically ushered him toward the house.
Once inside, all was ready when the couple entered. Before Anne went to sit, Gilbert cleared his throat and pulled out her chair.
"There you are, milady."
Anne couldn't help but chuckle at this romantic gesture; in all honesty, she was glad to be cared for by Gilbert because it confirmed the saying that actions did indeed speak louder than words. The fact that he showed chivalry and respect was not something many boys did; Charlie Slone certainly wasn't knowledgeable in this department.
Afternoon tea was a delightful affair. Pleasant conversation was exchanged and, much to Marilla and Mrs. Lynde's surprise, Davy behaved like a perfect gentleman and was even nice to Dora. She, of course, didn't speak much but gladly accepted any food offered to her without protest. Throughout the duration of this meal, the couple also chatted among themselves; Anne told Gilbert what she had busied herself with that day and he listened attentively.
"Did you enjoy yourself, Gilbert?" Marilla asked when the dishes had been cleared; the twins had gone outside to play and were supervised by Mrs. Lynde.
"Yes, tea was lovely. Thank you, Marilla."
"It was our pleasure. You're welcome to come by any time."
"I shall take your word for it."
He then turned toward Anne. "Shall we take a walk down by the lake?"
"we shall," the girl replied, taking his arm.
When the two had gone, Marilla smiled to herself. They were truly a wonderful pair and there was not another like it in Avonlea.