Hello all!
I want to thank everyone again for their reviews! I want to give a particular shoutout to WhatIsThis'Sleep'YouSpeakOf; I'm so glad I've been able to bring you a story that you've enjoyed so much!
Anne, who had been getting lost in Gilbert's love and his gentle kisses and caresses, finally floated back to earth and realized she couldn't allow this to happen. Each day, she was growing increasingly aware of an alarming certainty: that she loved Gilbert Blythe - truly loved him- and that knowledge was enough to make her want to run.
With her mask back in place, she shoved Gilbert away. She stared at him with eyes brimming with tears she refused to let fall. This inner war within herself seemed never-ending. Why did he have to make this so difficult? Why couldn't he just let things be as they were?! But at the same time, why did she have to be so difficult? Why couldn't she just accept things the way they are?!
Either way, there was no denying it now, and she hated him for it- for dragging the truth out of her, the depth of her feelings, everything laid out so bare.
Stunned by the vehemence in her stare, Gilbert tottered back.
Ignoring his shock, Anne spoke. 'You...do you realize what a charmed life you've had... such a charmed life...' Anne said, trying to swallow the hint of resentment that laced her words.
'You, who have always known the love of family, of friends! And the security that comes with that. I was only afforded such security at 11, Gilbert, and even then... and then you ask me to jump into this...abyss with you, not knowing what's at the bottom, and I... I can't, Gilbert, I can't!' Anne screamed, finding herself once again unable to look at him, and she turned away.
Now it was Gilbert's turn to stare, mouth agape. This was the most honest, the most vulnerable Anne had ever been with him. The pain in her words had seared him and he wanted nothing more than to hold her and kiss her pain away. He collected himself before he reached for her and with the greatest gentleness, turned her to him. With eyes fixed on hers; he spoke.
Another short chapter I know, but I hope worth it! My next chapter will be the last!