Devoted To You || Gilbert Blythe

XLI

~𝒜𝒹𝒶~
See you later. A saying. Meaning, a casual way to say goodbye, technically meaning that you will probably see each other in the future because you are on friendly terms with each other, but with no expected event or date.
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October arrived sooner than expected, marking the end of eight wonderful months spent with my cherished friends and family. My plan is to return to Avonlea after completing finishing school.

I've chosen to attend the Newhaven Finishing Institute for Young Ladies. In anticipation, I reached out to Daphne Arthur about the availability of a spare room in her flat. Thankfully, she confirmed its availability, and I've decided to live with her. While Father and Alexander graciously offered their home, the prospect of independence led me to choose this path.

However, one bittersweet aspect of my departure is missing the birth of Mary and Sebastian's baby. Although the thought of witnessing the event makes me queasy, I'll regret not being there for this significant moment.

Diana's relieved she can learn from my experience as I head to finishing school before her. Though she's still hoping her parents might change their stance on college.

Gilbert's been supportive, and we're aware we'll miss each other. But having faced this kind of separation before, we believe we can handle it again.

The day of my departure had arrived, and we made our way to the train station. The atmosphere was charged with a blend of excitement and the heavy weight of impending separation. As we approached the bustling station, Aunt Josephine, Mary, and Sebastian engaged in light banter to lift the mood. Aunt Josephine couldn't help but fuss over the details, ensuring I had everything I needed for the journey. Gilbert walked beside me, his hand grabbed ahold of mine.

"You know, Ada," he teased, "you don't have to go all the way to Paris to learn proper etiquette. I can give you a crash course right here in Avonlea."

I couldn't help but laugh, the warmth of his playful spirit momentarily easing the tinge of sadness. "Oh, really? Do you promise to be a strict teacher?"

Gilbert raised an eyebrow, feigning seriousness. "Absolutely. You'll be the most refined lady in Avonlea in no time."

"I appreciate the offer, Gilbert, but I must decline." I reply making him pucker his lip out. "Put that thing away."

As the train's whistle echoed through the station, we come to a stop outside of the station. Aunt Josephine approached, her eyes reflecting the shared sentiment of parting. "Ada, my dear," she said with a gentle smile, "you're embarking on a remarkable journey. Embrace it fully, and don't forget to write to your old auntie."

"I could never forget about you, Aunt Jo." I smile before hugging her neck.

Sebastian, Mary, and Gilbert surrounded me, forming a small circle of support. Sebastian clapped me on the back, trying to infuse courage. "You will do great, Ada. Paris doesn't stand a chance." He then whispers to me. "I will miss you baking dearly."

Mary pushed his chest, her other hand remains on her slightly swollen belly. "Don't you worry about him, Ada. I'll take good care of him." She pushes past him and hugs my neck. "We'll have this baby, and you'll come back to us with stories to tell."

"I can't believe I'll miss it." I sniffle as I rub her belly. "Don't worry little guy— or girl. Aunt Ada will be back before you know it."

Gilbert's eyes held a mixture of pride and reluctance. "Remember, if Paris gets too overwhelming, Avonlea will be right here waiting for you."

"I'll be back before you know it." I smile as tears sting my eyes.

"Take care of yourself, Ada," he whispered, squeezing my hand. With a touch of humor, he adds, "Just remember, if anyone gives you trouble in Paris, tell them Gilbert Blythe will set them straight."

Mary chuckled. "And Sebastian and I will be here, eagerly awaiting your letters."

Sebastian, with a smirk, teased, "Just make sure to bring back some of those fancy French pastries. I hear they're divine."

As the train's distant whistle pierced the air, an ache settled in my chest. Turning to face my makeshift family, I felt tears welling up, threatening to spill over. I ran toward Aunt Josephine first, embracing her frail form with a tenderness that spoke of countless shared moments.

Sebastian, with his characteristic grin, enveloped me in a bear hug. "Make us proud, Ada," he said, his voice gruff with emotion.

Next was Mary, her smile bright despite the sadness in her eyes. "I love you." She whispered.

"I love you too." I whisper back.

My steps brought me to Gilbert, and the weight of unspoken feelings hung between us. His eyes mirrored mine, a mixture of pride, love, and the reluctant acceptance of the impending separation. Without a word, I wrapped my arms around him, and tears finally escaped, trailing down my cheeks.

The train's announcement intensified, urging me to board, but I couldn't let go just yet.

Without hesitation, I embraced him even tighter. "I'll miss you," I whispered.

As I stepped back, a mix of tears and smiles, I boarded the train with a heavy heart. Through the window, I saw their figures on the platform, and my resolve wavered. Just as the doors started closing, Gilbert ran towards the train, his eyes locking onto mine.

In a moment that lingered like eternity, he reached the closing gap, and with a burst of determination, he leaped onto the train. Without uttering a word, he cupped my face and pressed his lips to mine. I relish the feeling.

In that fleeting moment, our lips parting, Gilbert whispered, "This is just a 'see you later,' Ada. I'll be counting the days until you're back." With those words lingering in the air, he stepped back from the moving train, his eyes holding a mixture of longing and unwavering support.

I take my seat and wave them one last goodbye.

As the train began its journey, I watched the platform blur, tears streaming down my cheeks. In that bittersweet moment, Avonlea retreated into the distance, leaving me with a heart full of memories and the promise of an uncertain yet thrilling future in Paris.