The Orphan's Home

Pt. 1, Prologue - A Home in Avonlea

Matthew Cuthbert stopped the buggy in front of the small, neat Avonlea station, and scanned the surroundings for the orphan boy he had come for. According to the short telegram, the boy was to arrive on the last train today, and Marilla had sent a reluctant Matthew for him.

With a creak from both the elderly man, and equally aged farm-wagon, Matthew tentatively climbed down from the wagon's worn bench seat; and proceeded to scratch his grey hair nervously. He didn't see the boy anywhere.

In fact, the only creature he saw was a thin young girl sitting on the station's platform. She wore a faded yellow-brown wincey dress and straw hat. A battered carpetbag was resting on her lap. Her fiery red hair, escaping from double braids, blew in the humid summer breeze.

Before he could turn, the child saw him. Her face broke into a joyful expression as she leapt up and ran toward him.

"Oh I'm so very glad you are here!" she said excitedly, grabbing his hand and shaking it vigorously, "I was beginning to think no one would come. I've always wondered what it would be like to live on one's own. Thrilling, I'm sure, if I would ever dare to do it."

Matthew stood there dumbfounded and somewhat frightened by the child and her enthusiasm. Having not moved from the wagon more than one timid step, he decided to lean against it for support. It took the girl a moment to notice his confusion, but she quickly stood straighter, and, having released his hand, offered hers for a handshake once again.

"I'm very sorry! I forgot to introduce myself. My name is Anne. Anne Shirley."

A/N: Thanks for reading this story! I'm still trying to find a good title for this book, but decided not to wait any longer to post my story.

Also, in Anne's dialogue, there will be some big words (of course). I can always provide the definition for a word, so feel free to ask. 

Thanks for reading, and especially for voting, commenting, and the occasional follow! Don't forget to add this book to your reading list so you know when a new chapter is added!