when tragedy strikes ☾ shirbert

chapter 05: change in the air

a/n: please don't be a silent reader! sorry for the wait, love you

—

It was official, after much debate between the two families, Marilla and Matthew finally allowed funding from the Barry's. Upon hearing, Anne's priceless reaction caused Elisa to smile almost larger and pearlier than the redhead's. The happy little screams and embraces put to rest any doubts that Marilla had made the wrong decision.

The Cuthbert's acceptance came with a few stipulations; they'd find their own building crew, repay a lofty portion once things were running again, and provide endless assortments of baked goods to whoever helped. Anne volunteered to assist with the treats, but it was Marilla's specialty. They expected to start up within a week or so.

A plentiful amount of hugs were passed along the table like a tray of biscuits. Diana squealed with her bosom friend as they were entangled in each other's arms, Marilla soon receiving the heartiest squeeze from her daughter. The uplifting energy was abundant as they shared laughter about the assumption of marriage, Jerry expressing his fright. The maid lighting the fire couldn't bite back chuckles either, recalling Anne's hollers echoing throughout the entire house.

Soon they began to dine like the big family they were at heart. Diving into the roasted vegetables, Jerry explained that he too was clueless. On the request of Matthew, Jerry was invited to enjoy supper and discuss his position as the farm boy. He was also promised the ability to bring home portions for his siblings and parents.

The clinks of silverware and shuffling of the chair legs eventually withered to the chirp of nearby crickets and crackling flames. The peacefulness brought in mourning for Marilla, as she reminisced over her heirlooms, the beautifully crafted gifts from Anne, and all of her treasures that couldn't be saved. Never did she wallow aloud, as it was more important to be grateful for the safety of her family.

Once dinner was officially over, Jerry retired home with the escort of Mr.Barry. Before leaving, he snuck in a quick "Bonsoir, madame," to the lovely Diana. The brunette faintly smiled and curtsied, saying nothing to the skinny french boy. Passing the living room, she saw Marilla and Anne cuddled together on the long, robins-egg blue couch. Deciding not to ruin the cherishing moment, she went straight to bed.

"What changed your mind?" Anne asked in a whisper, her voice muffled by the cotton sleeve of Marilla's floral nightgown, draped over her shoulder.

"You did," The woman responded in a hushed tone, "I believe I 'ought to start listening to you more."

A light laugh escaped the girl's lips, and Marilla went on, "I would never do such a thing to have you placed back in that cruel orphanage. You've done plenty good for us, and I shouldn't have made it seem like you were a burden, of any sort." She gripped onto the petite hand next to her,

"You're no short of a miracle, Anne."

—

Gilbert groaned, rising from the mattress like a zombie as he squinted into his bedroom, the sun bleeding through. His fingers curled as they ruffled his locks of dark fluffy hair. It was definite that he got a good night's sleep, as the wrinkles of his blanket were imprinted onto his arms. The peaceful couple of seconds that started his morning was ruined by Sebastian abruptly bursting through the door.

"WHAT IS THIS?"

Obviously not fully awakened, Gilbert merely stared at the man, his jumble of angry words swirling about. There was a sandy-colored shirt, clutched in Bash's fist. With more squinting and incoherency, it was difficult to see what the problem was.