~𝒜𝒹𝒶~
Metanoia. A noun meaning, the journey of changing one's mind, heart, self, or way of life.
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As the morning light streamed through the windows of my bedroom, casting a warm glow over the room, I found myself lost in thought, contemplating the day ahead after yesterday's devastating loss.
We were shocked to find our schoolhouse burned down the morning after our event at City Hall. It was a no brainer that it was the men of the board. They stole the printing press and everything.
I wanted to be more upset but I've been too focused on other things. Aunt Jo wrote me a few days ago letting me know that she will be visiting the Barry's today and she wanted to meet with me. I haven't seen her since I decided to leave—again. I know she knows. She always finds out. I feel like she has always known what I am planning to do before I even get a chance to do it.
I change into a simple white top and blue skirt. I don't care if I am seeing my formal family, I'm not trekking a mile in my Sunday best. I grab a white ribbon and tie my hair back into a ponytail.
As I stepped out of my bedroom and made my way down the hallway, lost in my thoughts, I was startled by the sound of a door swinging open. Before I could react, strong arms enveloped me, pulling me into an unexpected embrace. My heart raced as I found myself face to face with Gilbert, his mischievous grin melting away my initial shock. "Gotcha!" he teased quietly, his eyes dancing with amusement.
I couldn't help but laugh, a mixture of relief and exhilaration coursing through me. "You scared me half to death, Gilbert!" I scolded playfully, my cheeks flushing with embarrassment.
His grin softened into a tender smile as he gazed into my eyes, his proximity sending a shiver down my spine. Without a word, he leaned in, capturing my lips in a gentle kiss that sent my senses reeling. The warmth of his touch sparking a flurry of emotions within me. As he pulled away, his gaze held mine, a silent acknowledgment passing between us. "Sorry about that," he murmured, his voice low and husky. "I couldn't resist."
I couldn't find the right words to respond, my mind still reeling from the unexpected encounter. "You must be quiet. You'll wake the baby." I whisper.
"I checked, she's already awake." He pecks my lips one more time. As Gilbert released me, I watched him disappear back into his room, a whirlwind of emotions swirling within me. With trembling hands, I continued down the hallway, my thoughts consumed by the lingering sensation of his lips on mine.
I found Bash bustling around the kitchen, preparing for his mother's arrival. The tantalizing aroma of freshly made coffee and sizzling bacon filled the air, coaxing a growl from my stomach.
"Morning, Ada!" Bash greeted cheerfully, his voice infused with excitement. "Hungry? Or did you get a mouthful of Blythe already?"
"Sebastian!" I gasp, hitting him with a wet rag. He jumps back cackling.
"I'm kidding!"
I take a seat at the table as he deftly served up a hearty breakfast. The clatter of dishes and the sizzle of bacon provided a comforting backdrop to our morning routine.
"So, what's on the agenda for today?" Bash inquired, his eyes alight with curiosity.
"I'm heading over to the train station to visit Aunt Jo and then I reckon I'm going to the Barry's to check on Diana," I replied, spearing a piece of bacon with my fork. "She's been disappearing a lot here lately."
Bash nodded in understanding, his expression thoughtful. "I guess disappearing runs in your family." He teases once more.
"I suppose so," I roll my eyes at him, before offering a grateful smile as I tucked back into my breakfast.
Gilbert strolled into the kitchen, a bright smile on his face.
"Morning, Bash!" Gilbert greeted warmly, clapping a hand on Bash's shoulder as he passed by. "Making a feast, I see." He made his way over to Delly's high chair. With a mischievous gleam in his eye, he scooped up Delly, causing her to squeal with delight.
"Good morning, little lady!" Gilbert exclaimed, lifting Delly high into the air as she giggled uncontrollably. "Ready for a flying adventure?"
Delly's laughter filled the room as Gilbert spun her around, her tiny hands reaching out in excitement. Watching the two of them, I couldn't help but smile.
"Careful you don't send her into orbit, Gilbert," Bash teased, a grin playing on his lips as he flipped a pancake on the stove.
"Don't worry, Bash. I'm an expert pilot," Gilbert quipped back, his eyes twinkling with amusement as he continued to twirl Delly around.
"More like an expert troublemaker," I chimed in with a laugh, shaking my head at the playful scene before me.
Gilbert shot me a mock-offended look, feigning hurt. "And here I thought you were enjoying the show, Ada. I'll remember that next time I decide to take Delly on a thrilling flight."
"Maybe just keep her grounded for now," I replied with a smirk, unable to resist joining in the banter.
Gilbert finally brought Delly back down to earth, settling into a seat next to me with Delly still in his arms. The warmth of his presence beside me was comforting, and I couldn't help but smile as I glanced over at him.
Delly, for her part, seemed perfectly content nestled in Gilbert's arms, her chubby cheeks flushed with excitement from their impromptu flight.
"It is so good to see you two together," Bash remarked, flipping another pancake onto his plate.
Gilbert glanced over at me, a soft smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Well, what can I say? Delly and I make a pretty good team," he said, his gaze lingering on mine for a moment before returning to Delly.
"I wasn't talking about the baby, but I suppose that I agree." He shrugs before handing us a plate of pancakes. I couldn't help but feel a flutter of warmth in my chest at his words.
We sat together, enjoying the simple pleasure of each other's company until it was time for Gilbert and I to leave.
***
"You didn't have to walk me all the way to the train station, Gilbert."
"Of course I did." He declares as he swings our hands. "What kind of man would I be if I let my lady walk unaccompanied to the train station?"
"I suppose I appreciate your company." I shrug cheekily.
"You suppose?" He snaps before turning to me. I let out a surprised giggle as Gilbert's fingers find their way to my sides, the sensation sending shivers down my spine.
"Okay, okay!" I protest, squirming away from his playful attack. "I appreciate it, I promise!"
He grins, his eyes alight with mischief as he releases me from his tickling assault. "Good," he says, his tone teasing. "Knowing you you'd get lost on the way and blame me for it."
I roll my eyes playfully, swatting at his arm. "Oh, please," I retort, feigning indignation. "As if I would ever get lost with my impeccable sense of direction."
"Impeccable sense of direction, huh?" Gilbert echoes, raising an eyebrow skeptically. "Remind me again how many times you've headed home but ended up in Paris instead?"
"Hey, that was one time!" I protest as a blush creeps up my face.
"Twice actually." I playfully swat at his arm again. Despite the teasing, there's a warmth in his gaze that sends a flutter of excitement through my chest, a feeling that I can't quite shake.
"You know," he begins, a mischievous glint in his eye, "I could always just give you a piggyback ride the rest of the way. Save you the trouble of walking."
I can't help but laugh at his suggestion, a playful smile dancing on my lips. "A piggyback ride, Gilbert? In this skirt? Really?"
He nods, his expression earnest despite the teasing tone of his voice. "Why not?" he replies with a shrug. "It'll be faster, and much more fun."
I consider his offer for a moment, the corners of my lips quirking up in amusement. "Well, I suppose it would save time," I concede, playing along with his playful antics.
Gilbert grins, his eyes alight with excitement. "Exactly!" he exclaims, stepping closer and gesturing for me to climb onto his back.
With a playful laugh, I oblige, hopping onto his back and wrapping my arms around his neck. He steadies me with a firm grip before setting off towards the station, his footsteps light and sure.
"I'm not too heavy am I?" I ask.
He shrugs. "I've carried heavier boulders." I smack his head making him laugh.
As we reach the train station, Gilbert sets me down gently, and we wait together on the platform for Aunt Jo's arrival. The station is bustling with activity, passengers hurrying to catch their trains and bustling vendors selling their wares.
"You really didn't have to come all this way, Gilbert," I say, smiling up at him.
His eyes meet mine. "I couldn't resist the chance to spend a little more time with you." I smile, feeling a warmth spread through me at his words. "I'm going to be awfully busy with my Queens exam."
"And I with my business endeavors." I smile proudly since I'm finally taking a big step.
He sighs. "Soon we shall be true adults. Are you ready for that?"
"Certain aspects of it, yes."
The sound of the approaching train interrupts our banter, and we fall into a comfortable silence as we watch Aunt Jo's and Rollings exit the train.
"There she is," I say, nudging Gilbert lightly as Aunt Jo steps onto the platform.
She catches sight of us a gives a big grin. I do believe I am her favorite great niece. No offense to Diana or Minnie May.
"Ada, darling!" I quickly embrace her since she's not into physical touch.
"Hello, Jo!" I pull back and examine her. "You look well."
"And you look marvelous." She glances at Gilbert and smirks. "And I can see why."
"Jo." I scold teasingly.
"I'm teasing but you do look marvelous. So— grown up." She says as she examines my updated attire.
"I learned a few things at that finishing school." I remark making her chuckle.
Gilbert steps forward, extending his hand to Aunt Jo with a warm smile. "It's a pleasure to see you again, Mrs. Barry. How was your journey?"
Aunt Jo accepts his hand with a grin. "Oh, just fine, thank you, Gilbert. Although I must say, it's always a relief to be back in Avonlea. There's just something about this place that feels like home."
Gilbert nods in agreement. "I couldn't agree more. Avonlea has a way of drawing you back, no matter how far you roam."
We exchange a few more pleasantries before Aunt Jo turns to me. "Well, shall we head to the Barry's house? I'm eager to catch up with Diana."
I nod, glancing back at Gilbert. "I'll see you later then, Gilbert."
"Of course. And Jo you and Rollings are more than welcome to visit us." She thanks him for the generous offer. He gives me a nod, his gaze lingering for a moment before he turns and heads off towards the Miss Stacy's.
***
As we rode towards the Barry's house, Aunt Jo's words lingered in my mind. "So, let's talk business," she said with a smile, her eyes sparkling with determination. "Have you decided on a location?"
I took a deep breath, trying to organize my thoughts. "I'm torn between Charlottetown and Avonlea," I admitted, explaining my reasoning behind each option in greater detail. Aunt Jo listened attentively, nodding along as I spoke.
"And when were you planning on buying back your mother's home?" she asked, cutting straight to the heart of the matter.
Her question caught me off guard, and I felt a pang of guilt wash over me. "That must be the first thing I do," I admitted, my voice tinged with regret. "Though I love living with Gilbert and Bash, it's no longer appropriate given where Gilbert and I stand relationship-wise."
Aunt Jo gave me a knowing look, her expression softening with understanding. "There's only a pasture separating you two, you'll be fine," she reassured me, her words offering a sense of comfort amidst my turmoil.
As we continued our journey, Aunt Jo fell into thought, her brow furrowing slightly. "While I am in town, we shall look around at available properties," she declared, determination lacing her tone. "Clearly, you need all the help you can get."
I couldn't help but smile at her unwavering support. "Thank you, Aunt Jo," I said sincerely, grateful for her guidance.
***
As we stepped into the familiar confines of my aunt and uncle's home, their surprise at Aunt Jo's unexpected arrival was palpable.
"Of... of course we're happy to see you, Auntie, we're just..." Uncle William stuttered, his eyes widening as he watched the luggage being carried in.
"Su-surprised," Aunt Eliza chimed in, her voice tinged with uncertainty.
"Hmm," Aunt Jo chuckled in response, her gaze sweeping over the room with amusement. "How nice." She turned to my aunt and uncle with a mischievous glint in her eye. "Where might Diana be?"
"In her room. You may go see her if you'd like," Aunt Eliza replied, a warm smile gracing her features.
"I think we shall," Aunt Jo declared, already striding down the hallway. "Come along, Ada."
Following Aunt Jo, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation mingled with apprehension. What was she planning?
Diana's eyes lit up with joy as Aunt Jo entered her room. "Aunt Josephine!" she exclaimed, scrambling out of bed to greet her. "What a wonderful surprise!"
"Your father disagrees," Aunt Jo remarked with a chuckle as she took a seat on Diana's bed. "You should've seen his face. Worth the price of admission."
"What brings you to Avonlea?" Diana asked, curiosity shining in her eyes.
"You," Aunt Jo replied simply, her expression serious. "The Queens entrance exams are tomorrow." She leaned in closer to Diana, her tone earnest. "Take them. Give yourself the option, like Ada. Don't condemn yourself to someone else's idea of who you should be."
Diana hesitated, scratching her neck nervously. "Uh, I haven't prepared."
"But you're intelligent. You can—" Aunt Jo began, only to be interrupted by Diana.
"And I'm not going to Queens," Diana declared dismissively. "I'm going to finishing school."
"Drivel," Aunt Jo scoffed, shaking her head in disbelief. "Times have changed. Go to college! Learn!"
Diana's brows furrowed in frustration. "The course of study is varied..."
"Which dress to wear? Which smile? You have potential, Diana," Aunt Jo insisted, her voice firm as she banged her cane against the ground for emphasis. "Demand more from yourself. Don't accept what your parents have said—"
"I don't have a choice!" Diana snapped, her frustration bubbling to the surface.
"Really?" Aunt Jo's tone turned mocking as she stood up abruptly. "Well... Nothing to fear. You're beautiful, Paris will adore you. You won't be very interesting, but you'll succeed."
After Aunt Jo's departure, I lingered behind in Diana's room, feeling the weight of the conversation still lingering in the air.
"Diana," I began tentatively, taking a seat beside her on the bed. "Are you alright?"
She sighed heavily, her shoulders slumping with defeat. "I don't know, Ada. I feel like I'm stuck between what I want and what everyone expects of me."
I reached out and placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "I understand, Diana. It's not easy, especially when there are so many voices telling you what to do."
"Yeah," she murmured, her gaze fixed on the floor. "But what if Aunt Jo's right? What if I do have more potential than just being another society lady?"
I smiled encouragingly, feeling a surge of pride for my friend. "I believe you do, Diana. You're intelligent, ambitious, and capable of achieving great things. You shouldn't let anyone—"
"Except my parents," she interjected bitterly.
I nodded sympathetically. "Yes, except them," I conceded. "But ultimately, the decision is yours to make. You have to do what feels right for you, regardless of what others may think."
Diana met my gaze, her eyes reflecting a mix of uncertainty and determination. "Thank you, Ada. I needed to hear that."
"Anytime," I replied, giving her shoulder a reassuring squeeze. "Remember, I'll always be here for you, no matter what path you choose."
With a faint smile, Diana leaned into my touch, and for a moment, the weight of her worries seemed to lift ever so slightly. As we sat together in quiet solidarity, I couldn't help but hope that she would find the courage to follow her heart, wherever it may lead.