Come As You Are (An Anne With An E/Sebastian 'Bash' Lacroix Fanfic)

01. New House

I walked with Gilbert down the dirt road. My arm was tucked in his arm so I didn't stumble. I could do just fine if I knew the layout of the area but as I was going to a new house, it would take me a few days to get familiar with the area.

"What is Anne like?"

"She has a fiery temper and daydreams a lot," Gilbert said. "She likes to read a lot. I think you two will get along just fine."

"Maybe," I said. "We'll have the entire time you're gone to know each other more. Don't be gone too long, okay? I don't want to lose my brother."

"You're not going to lose me, Aria," Gilbert said. "I'll always return to my sister. You can't live without me."

I smacked his arm. "Shut up, Gil. Yes, I can. I can walk around the house by myself and walk around the yard. If you would only teach me how to walk to the town I would -"

"No, not yet," Gilbert said. "You're not ready."

"No, I'm ready," I said. "You aren't. I'm perfectly capable of doing it and you know it. All I need to do is act like I can see and I'll be fine. You're just a coward."

Gilbert shoved me. "I hate you, Ari. We're almost there."

"How much longer?" I asked.

"A few minutes," Gilbert replied. "It shouldn't be too long. You'll love it there. I think that you'll fit right in."

I gripped his arm. "I hope so. I heard Marilla is very strict. I hope I'm not restricted to just housework. You did explain to her that I can do everything a sighted person can, right?"

"Yes, of course," Gilbert said. "I told her everything you asked me to tell her. She seemed unsure of what I said but she listened."

I nodded and we walked in silence the rest of the way. My arms were beginning to ache from my suitcase but we got close. We arrived and Gilbert let go of my arm and knocked on the door.

I stood there silently with both hands holding my suitcase. I heard footsteps coming to the door. It creaked up.

"Hello, Gilbert," a woman's voice greeted. "This must be Aria."

"Hello," I greeted. "Are you Marilla?"

"Yes, I am," Marilla replied. "Come on inside. I'll show you to your room."

I followed her into the house, my feet sweeping across the floor. I came to a set of stairs. I walked up to them, trying not to lose my balance. There was no handrail so I placed one hand on the wall and the other held my suitcase. I counted my steps as I walked. I followed Marilla's footsteps into a room. I entered slowly and felt for a bed.

"It's on the opposite wall," Marilla stated.

I found the bed. "Thanks but I could have found it by myself. I am capable of finding things on my own."

"I apologize," Marilla said. "I didn't know."

"She's a feisty kid," Gilbert said from the doorway. "Just let her be and she'll figure things out."

"I always do," I said. "Do you need help with anything?"

"Yes, I do," Marilla answered. "Anne is with her friend Diana and I need help cooking. Do you mind helping me?"

"Not at all," I said. "Show me the kitchen."

We went back downstairs. Before I could start with anything, Gilbert pulled me in. I hugged him back and buried my head into his chest.

"I'll be back for you, Aria," Gilbert said. "Don't get into too much trouble, okay?"

"How can I?" I asked. "You're taking all the trouble with you."