Long Distance Love Letters

A Father's Blessing

Gilbert stared at Green Gables, his heart pounding in his chest. He forced himself onto the porch before knocking on the door.

Matthew opened the door, seeming a little surprised to see him. "Hello, Gilbert."

"Good afternoon, Mr. Cuthbert," he greeted, wringing his hands.

Matthew looked around a little. "Um, Anne's not here. She's with Diana."

Gilbert nodded. "I know. I was hoping to speak with you."

Matthew nodded slowly. "Alright."

Gilbert followed him into the living room, taking a seat and a deep breath.

Matthew sat across from him, waiting for him to start.

Finally mustering the courage, Gilbert began. "I know that Anne and I have only been courting for a couple of months-"

"But you want to marry her," Matthew finished, his classic confused expression written on his face but speaking clearer than Gilbert had ever heard.

Gilbert looked at him in shock. "How did you-"

"You're not hard to read."

Finally, he gave in. "I know she's the one for me. She's everything I've ever wanted in a life mate. I don't have much to offer her, but I know material objects have never been of importance to her. I'm not sure if she'll say yes, but with your blessing, it is all I want in life to ask her."

Matthew nodded thoughtfully. Finally, he said, "I think she'll say yes."

Gilbert nearly stopped breathing. "Does that mean I have your blessing?"

He smiled and put his hand on Gilbert's knee. "You've had my blessing since the beginning, son."

Gilbert's heart filled to the brim with joy. "Thank you so much, Mr. Cuthbert." He quite literally felt tears come to his eyes.

"Matthew," he corrected.

Gilbert laughed, his heart now overflowing. "Matthew."

"So," Matthew continued casually. "Do you have a plan?"

Gilbert self consciously scratched the back of his neck. "Not a fully formulated one. But I'm working on it. I just want it to be perfect for Anne."

Matthew smiled. "Don't worry. She'll love whatever you come up with."

Gilbert returned the smile. He leaned back as a ton of weight fell off his shoulders.

Finally, he was ready to begin the rest of his life.

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AN: hey y'all sorry this is so short. i'm super crazy busy rn. next chap should be longer