Long Distance Love Letters

New to Town

Anne and Gilbert climbed off the train, taking in the Summerside rays. Anne looked around her initial view of the city in wonder.

Gilbert smiled at his wife. "What do you think?"

Anne glanced over at him, allowing a nervous laugh. "We're definitely not in Charlottetown anymore."

After about a month of preparation, the couple had finally made the big move to Summerside. Dr. Bledsoe had been happy to hire Gilbert and had even helped to arrange Anne a few job interviews.

Anne had been quite nervous to move after becoming so used to their quaint little Avonlea. Even after having dinner with Marilla, Jerry, and the Lacroixs, she was still on the verge of backing out. Though she had stayed in Toronto for a good amount of time when Gilbert was sick, but she had been a little preoccupied to figure out city living.

The one thing that had brought her comfort was Muriel telling her that she was completely fine with Anne turning down the teaching position. She would begin holding interviews soon.

Looping her arm through Gilbert's, Anne began walking with him through the city. As she looked around, she allowed a smile.

"It is really pretty here," she admitted.

Gilbert chuckled slightly and nodded. "Summer in Summerside."

He nudged her gently with his elbow, causing her to look over at him.

"Thank you again for agreeing to come," he said sincerely. "It means a lot."

She smiled and kissed his cheek. "Of course. Besides, I couldn't allow you to live here alone and get sought after by a bunch of women."

Gilbert laughed heartily, putting his arm around her.

They were soon stopped by a man in his mid 20's, slight traces of wrinkles beginning to outline his features.

"Gilbert!" he greeted boisterously. "It's good to see you again!"

Gilbert smiled. "Dr. Bledsoe! I'm glad I could come back. Sir, I'd like to introduce you to my wife Anne. Anne, this is my boss Dr. Bledsoe."

"So you're the famous Anne," Dr. Bledsoe addressed. He took her hand and kissed it. "It's such a pleasure to meet you."

Anne smiled as he let go of it. "The pleasure is all mine."

"You never mentioned how pretty she is, Gilbert," he laughed as if they were best friends, clapping him on the shoulder. "You're one lucky guy."

Gilbert breathed out a laugh, rubbing Anne's arm. "Yes, I am."

"So, Anne," Dr. Bledsoe continued. "I did set up two job interviews for you at Summerside Elementary and Summerside High School next week. I figured I should give you some time to settle in first."

"Thank you so much," she expressed gratefully. "I really appreciate help from a local."

He smiled. "Think nothing of it."

There was a moment of silence before Gilbert spoke up.

"Well, we should head to our apartment now. Our belongings should be arriving soon."

Anne smiled at Dr. Bledsoe. "We'll see you soon."

Dr. Bledsoe smiled back. "I hope so."

•••

Anne and Gilbert stepped into the dark apartment, setting down their stuff.

Anne turned to her husband. "This is where you stayed the last time you were here?"

Gilbert offered a smile and nodded. "Oh, wait. Look."

He went over and flicked a switch. The quaint living room lit up from two lamps sitting on different desks.

Anne laughed. "We have lightbulbs?"

He nodded and walked over, pulling her into his arms. She brought her hands to hold his face as they stared at each other. He let his forehead rest against hers.

"I love you," he whispered.

She smiled. "I guess I love you, too."

They both chuckled softly. The rest of the night happened in a blur as he pulled her into a passionate, knee-buckling kiss.