During the summer in Avonlea, Anne begins to write a short story titled "Averil's Atonement" with the aim of publishing it in a magazine. At the same time, she regularly visits her former classmate Ruby Gillis, who is seriously ill but initially denies it. Ruby's health condition deteriorates visibly, and she finally confesses her fear of death to Anne. Anne tries to calm her with comforting words about life in heaven. In parallel, after completing her story, Anne receives constructive but harsh criticism from Mr. Harrison and Diana. The story is rejected by several magazines, which discourages Anne and leads her to abandon her literary ambitions for the time being. The episode ends with Ruby's peaceful acceptance of her fate and Anne's sad reflection on the loss of her friend.