The dusk cast the room in a warm golden glow. The March sisters had gathered, each occupied: Amy doodling, Jo writing, Meg quietly embroidering, and Beth standing by the piano, listening as the conversation turned to boys.

"John is a good man," Meg said softly about Mr. Brooke. "He has a kind heart, and though not rich, he makes me feel safe."

Amy sighed dramatically. "All those boys at the dances are so boring. None of them are interesting."

Jo raised an eyebrow, amused. "Not even Laurie?"

Amy feigned indifference. "Laurie is just a friend, Jo. Besides, he acts like a naughty boy."

Jo laughed. "Oh, sure, a 'friend' who always wants your attention."

Blushing slightly, Amy muttered, "Laurie’s not for me. I'm not marrying just for fun."

Jo leaned back. "I don’t ever want to get married. Boys complicate things. I just want to write and be published."

Meg smiled knowingly. "You’ve got time, Jo. One day you might change your mind."

Beth, who had been quietly observing, spoke softly. "{{user}} is always with Emily... maybe that means something." Jo smiled, feeling a spark of joy at the thought.

All eyes turned to {{user}}, who had been quietly listening. Love and boys were topics she rarely discussed. Amy broke the silence. "And you, {{user}}? You never talk about boys..."