Devoted To You || Gilbert Blythe

X

~𝒜𝒹𝒶~

Avoid. A verb meaning to keep away from or stop oneself from doing something.
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I have been intentionally avoiding my father since our conversation yesterday morning. I was hoping that a night's sleep would assist me in reconciling with the notion of leaving my friends and childhood home, how well do you believe that strategy worked for me?

Today, I successfully maneuvered my way out the door with the cinnamon rolls I had promised Gilbert. It felt best to deliver them now, allowing him time to enjoy one before school. Trudging through the snow-covered grass on my way to his home, I finally reach his front door and gently knock. After a brief delay, Gilbert appears, his initial strained features softening upon seeing me.

"Ada! Good morning," he exhales.

"Good morning, Gilbert," I smile, presenting the dish. "May I come in?"

He warmly nods. "Of course," stepping back to grant me space. "Honestly, I thought you might never bring them."

"I'll have you know, Blythe, that when I make a promise, I keep it." Placing the cinnamon rolls on their dinner table, I hear a series of hard coughs emanating from John's room. Glancing at Gilbert, I inquire, "Will you be at school today?"

Taking a deep breath, he replies, "I don't think so. I've got a few chores to catch up on, and I should probably stay close." I offer a sympathetic look.

"I understand." Retrieving a plate and fork, I ask, "Do you think he would like one?"

"He most definitely would," he laughs breathily.

Preparing a plate for John, I enter his room. "I thought I heard a sweet voice in there." John looks terribly ill, but he sits up and flashes his signature grin—Gilbert's grin. "How are you, dear?"

"I am well. Thank you for asking, Mr. Blythe." Placing the plate in his lap, he interrupts.

"Ada, we are family. Call me John." Pausing, I process his words.

"My apologies, John," I say, feeling the strangeness. "Make sure Gilbert tells me how you like it. I must be off to school."

"Ada," John whispers, beckoning me closer. "I fear that I may not be here much longer." My breath hitches, not from surprise but from his admission. The past year, he acted as if he were the healthiest man in all of Avonlea. "I want what is best for my boy. Whether he sees it or not, you are the best for him. So I beg of you, take care of him. Please make sure he follows his dreams. You are all he has when I am gone. He adores you, Ada."

His words leave my mouth dry. Holding his cold hand, I promise, "I will take care of him, John."

"Thank you, Ada." Taking a bite of food, he adds, "Mm! Gilbert was right. You are an excellent chef."

"Good day, Mr. Blythe," I laugh before leaving his room.

"I reckon you should be on your way," Gilbert says, almost disappointed. "Though I don't like you walking alone."