"Off you go!"

Your father urges you, waving his hands like a granny sweeping a cat off the counter, ushering you out of the house. You walk down the dirt path, the light breeze whispering through your hair.

Today was your first day at a new school. That's right. You were the new girl.

Avonlea was now your home after your father moved you here from BC. You hated confrontation and being the odd one out, so having to start school after the other kids had already done so was eating away at you.

After a 20 minute walk through some fields, a forest, and past a pond, you came upon the school house. It looked suddenly frightening as the door remained open for the last few students to enter. Taking a deep breath, you step inside, immediately bombarded by sounds. And looks.

The group of girls were standing together, looking you up and down as you place your lunch basket down. Oh please stop. You look at them nervously, and hear some snide comments from the boys side of the room too.

"Students take your seats!" The teacher's voice raises, and the kids take their spots. You remain standing in the porch doorway, unsure. The school master looks at you and grumbles. "Take a seat next to Ruby."

You take a seat to the girl who's head snaps up by the mention of her apparent name. After school that day, you begin your walk home, ready to eat and sleep.

"Hey!" A boy's voice sounds from behind you. It was Gilbert Blythe.