𝐦𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐰𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐥𝐞...𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐬

1 - there we are again (marilla + john)

1854 - the upstate escape 

Marilla Cuthbert shivered as she walked through the door of her paramour's upstate apartment. The air made her wrap her red scarf tighter around herself, but there was something about it that felt like home.

"Welcome to our humble home, Mar." John Blythe nervously scratched the back of his neck, worried about what she'd say. "It's not much, but it's been our holiday home for over a hundred years..."

When he looked over at her, she seemed completely mesmerized by the modest holiday house. "It's...wonderful."

He grinned. "So, are you prepared for later tonight?"

"What?" She snapped out of her trance. "Please don't tell me you planned something again - we all know how that goes."

"Getting chased by an angry carpenter with an ax for trespassing isn't fun?" he joked. "No, I just thought it'd be nice for a little getaway out of Avonlea. I promise, we probably won't be looking death in the eye here."

She chuckled, but her smile immediately vanished when she saw the concerned look on his face. "What is it?"

"There is one other thing." He fiddled with his coat for a moment, clenching his jaw. "I think it's time to introduce you to my family and friends. It's been a while, and I just...just to get this whole affair over with."

Her wide-eyed gaze searched his face to see if he was serious. "You think so?"

He placed a kiss on the back of her hand, causing her to blush furiously. "I assure you, they've heard nothing but good things, and they'll love you. Just as much as I do."

-

She laughs as he helps her down from the carriage, and she marvels at the sights before her. The city is bustling and filled with people from all walks of life, the autumn leaves around them falling like pieces into place. It's a sharp contrast from the farm, the environment Marilla was used to.

They walk past a small concert hall, the music from inside prompting him to hold out his hand to her. "Shall we, my lady?"

She giggles and curtsies. "We shall, sir."

As he leads her in a routine that she knows all too well from her years of practicing at school, Marilla is certain of one thing.

No matter what the future has in store, she wants to hold on to these memories forever. In that moment, there was no one else but the two of them.

Part I! Pretty short but I hope you enjoyed it!

Keep reading. Keep writing. Keep dreaming.-V