She did not hear him cross the courtyard beyond , nor see him pause in the archway that led from the subterranean path into the garden . He stood a minute looking at her with new eyes , seeing what no one had ever seen before , the tender side of Amy 's character . Everything about her mutely suggested love and sorrow , the blotted letters in her lap , the black ribbon that tied up her hair , the womanly pain and patience in her face , even the little ebony cross at her throat seemed pathetic to Laurie , for he had given it to her , and she wore it as her only ornament . If he had any doubts about the reception she would give him , they were set at rest the minute she looked up and saw him , for dropping everything , she ran to him , exclaiming in a tone of unmistakable love and longing ... `` Oh , Laurie , Laurie , I knew you 'd come to me ! '' I think everything was said and settled then , for as they stood together quite silent for a moment , with the dark head bent down protectingly over the light one , Amy felt that no one could comfort and sustain her so well as Laurie , and Laurie decided that Amy was the only woman in the world who could fill Jo 's place and make him happy . He did not tell her so , but she was not disappointed , for both felt the truth , were satisfied , and gladly left the rest to silence . In a minute Amy went back to her place , and while she dried her tears , Laurie gathered up the scattered papers , finding in the sight of sundry well-worn letters and suggestive sketches good omens for the future . As he sat down beside her , Amy felt shy again , and turned rosy red at the recollection of her impulsive greeting . `` I could n't help it , I felt so lonely and sad , and was so very glad to see you . It was such a surprise to look up and find you , just as I was beginning to fear you would n't come , '' she said , trying in vain to speak quite naturally . `` I came the minute I heard . I wish I could say something to comfort you for the loss of dear little Beth , but I can only feel , and ... '' He could not get any further , for he too turned bashful all of a sudden , and did not quite know what to say . He longed to lay Amy 's head down on his shoulder , and tell her to have a good cry , but he did not dare , so took her hand instead , and gave it a sympathetic squeeze that was better than words . `` You need n't say anything , this comforts me , '' she said softly . `` Beth is well and happy , and I must n't wish her back , but I dread the going home , much as I long to see them all . We wo n't talk about it now , for it makes me cry , and I want to enjoy you while you stay . You need n't go right back , need you ? '' `` Not if you want me , dear . '' `` I do , so much . Aunt and Flo are very kind , but you seem like one of the family , and it would be so comfortable to have you for a little while . ''
XXXXX spoke and looked so like a homesick child whose heart was full that Laurie forgot his bashfulness all at once , and gave her just what she wanted -- the petting she was used to and the cheerful conversation she needed .
Amy Beth Flo Jo Laurie archway left minute omens right