Garden party
Charlotte confidence was improving with each social engagement and found herself at another afternoon party being hosted by Lord and Lady Fift. She had visited this couple before with Susan and loved the gardens attached to the home. Even though London was an exciting place she missed the countryside. She was standing by herself taking an appreciative view of the gardens and wished she could explore the openings along the avenue.
As she waited for Georgina and Thomas...she was lost in her own thoughts.
They were fixed on the the previous night as she had stared into Sidney's eyes. There was so much passion and spark that it gave her hope but frightened her at the same time. The way she was feeling about Sidney she would do anything for him... and that thought scared her. He was to marry Eliza Campion and she had her own family to consider. She had to guard her heart and common sense needed to be at the front of her mind. Taking a deep breath she quickly wipes away the tears and forces a smilie on her face.
Sidney like Charlotte couldn't stop thinking about the evening before. Eliza was growing suspicious of his affections as he had cancelled on a number other engagements. To keep up appearances he had agreed to attend the afternoon party at Lord and Lady Fift's. They arrived at the party and Eliza was excited as it was rumoured there were going to be royals present. "We need to make sure Lord B introduces you to the people he knows, and this should help our rise in society. We will not mention you made your money through trade and that we are looking to purchase an estate". He took on a stern look as she always seemed ashamed of his origins and always gave him a critical evaluation of his behaviour. He had no affection for her and everyday it was getting harder to hide his love for Charlotte. Yesterday she had proven that she was the most wonderful and compassionate woman in the world. He had to play his part until he could untangle himself from the marriage contract.
They had been mingling when Eliza spotted Charlotte Heywood from a distance "What is she doing here?" she said with a displeased tone
Susan had chosen a beautiful day dress of the latest fashion for Charlotte to wear. Only the royal circle had started wearing this fashion. Charlotte made a pretty picture as she was gazing at the garden. Sidney had to use all of his willpower not to stare at her as she was breathtakingly beautiful.
Eliza pulling a reluctant Sidney towards Charlotte was determined to interrupt her "Oh, I am so pleased to see you again Miss Heywood".
Charlotte turning to see Eliza and Sidney. "Good afternoon, Mrs Campion...Mr Parker" and turning her attention back to the beautiful garden. Charlotte could see that Sidney didn't want to be there but couldn't look at him as she could see the same passion from last night in his eyes. It didn't stop Charlotte from getting angry and hoped they would leave her alone but Eliza had other plans "I have been so busy planning our wedding... looking at Sidney and made the point of touching his arm"... he looked uncomfortable as Charlotte stares at them without emotion. "Quite" and once again focusing on the scenery before her. "It is a surprise that we would find you at an event such as this!"
Charlotte deciding to ignore that remark and without thinking quoted with feeling from a favourite book which celebrated nature "She is a rare artist, this old Mother Nature, who works, 'for the joy of working" and not in any spirit of vain show. Today the fur-woods are a symphony of greens and greys, so subtle that at you cannot tell where one shade begins to be the other. Grey trunks, green bough, grey-green moss above the white grey-shadow floor" she then comments "It is wonderful seeing such a beautiful place in this great city of London" and was imagining her home and its beautiful country landscape.
This was totally lost on Eliza who was determined to stay on the same topic continued to speak "How is your family farm? Any luck in finding a country boy?" Sidney shifting uncomfortably but Charlotte without any concern replied "I must thank you Mrs Campion for thinking of my poor family and will include your concern in my next letter to my mother. When I find a village boy to marry I will write to you post haste, so you can stop worrying about me". Eliza looking an her not sure if Charlotte was making sport of her. "One piece of family news that might be of interest to you both is that my sister has just finished reading 'Heraclitus' as you know farmers daughter's only read books." declares Charlotte giving Eliza a pointed look.
"I have been fortunate to be staying in London with a family friend." At that moment Susan arrives and puts her arm through Charlotte's. She only slightly acknowledges Eliza but talks directly to Charlotte. "My dear, I need to introduce you to HRH Princess Caroline and the Duchess of York also HRH Prince Michael of Norway has been looking for you". Susan taking pleasure seeing Eliza's mouth open in surprise.
"Oh, here comes my nephew the Earl of Mayfield. I need to go back, but he will bring you over." Susan walks off and the group see Thomas and HRM Prince Michael head in their direction. Charlotte warmly welcomes the two men and in turn introduces them to the couple.
The Prince who only had eyes for Charlotte caste a quick eye over Eliza before making a comment in Norwegian. Charlotte answering fluently in the prince's language by explaining the origins of the lady. He asks some questions which makes Charlotte laugh and was rewarded with a bright smile from the prince who looked like he had won a kingdom. Prince Michael was a dashingly handsome man and commanded the attention of those around him. Charlotte Heywood had not fallen under his spell and she wouldn't put up with his games. The beast of jealousy was present in Sidney and he struggled to maintain a calm countenance. Sidney understood the ways of men and could see that the prince was captivated. The Prince continued to speak with Thomas and Charlotte until Eliza started speaking in French and everyone stops and looked at her. Thomas commenting with a stern look on his face "Did you call the prince a muddle head?" Thomas speaking in Norwegian apologies to the prince and ask him to forgive the lady due to her low birth.
Thomas having assessed the situation, purposely using his court manners to show off Charlotte's new social connections. Thomas taking in the garden view openly quotes from the same book that Charlotte had used and she continue once he had finished. Sidney had become quiet and broodish as he saw the two share a private smile. The Prince not to be out done quoted from an old Danish story and was rewarded when Charlotte continued it in perfect Danish. His eyes sparkled as he heard the language being spoken with passion. Testing her further he speaks further and Charlotte laughs and replies in kind. Thomas interpreting for Eliza and Sidney … the prince has quoted a famous northern European story about a mysterious forest in its original language of Danish. The Prince so moved by the intelligence and beauty of Charlotte responded the way he would in Norway. Regretting he had to leave the group as he could see he was needed by his ambassador.
Eliza was shocked and couldn't work out what had happened since she last saw Charlotte in Sanditon!
As if this was a normal occurrence Charlotte started talking with Thomas "I was just telling Mrs Campion about my sister finishing ''Heraclitus' . "I am so pleased that Sarah took up my reading suggestion". Sidney looked sharply at them both... Thomas knew her family by their first names and was influencing their education!. Sidney also now knew that they had been working closely together and wondered about the Earl's real motivation. Thomas was well aware of what happened in Sanditon and remarked to Mrs Campion... "a potential wife should be well versed and educated so she can successfully move in higher society. Wouldn't you agree?" he looked directly at Eliza. Eliza not really knowing what to say and was annoyed that Sidney had not come to her rescue.
The conversation turned to trade. Charlotte was telling Eliza that the Earl was involved in a variety of trading activities. She excitedly described a number of projects that could improve English society. Sidney contributed to this topic and they discussed various investment opportunities. All of this was lost on Eliza who was only concerned with fashion and afternoon teas. "Miss Heywood, I am surprised you waste your time filling your mind with things that will not help you in your future housekeeping. I find what Sidney does very trying and look forward to him focusing on establishing himself as a gentleman in society" This was intended to be humorous but both men and Charlotte looked shocked at her statement.
"Madam, women are intelligent beings who have every right to participate in business. I am sorry you have limited yourself to housekeeping. Miss Heywood has one the best business minds I have come across and I have conducted business with many people around the world. I think it is you madam who needs to invest some time in your own education." Thomas responded in a firm tone. Charlotte adding "This country has allowed many a man to improve his wealth and social position. You, Mrs Campion should be proud that you are going to be marrying such a man, I only hope that I will be as fortunate". Sidney was moved when he heard Charlotte and understood her tone.
Thomas continuing "I take offence that all titled individuals spend their time ideally… Madam we have our own families and estates which support our communities. Business is what drives our economy and money is not conjured up like magic. It comes from hard work and intelligence. Charlotte could see that Thomas was getting passionate and she tapped him on the arm to break his concentration. She also had noticed Sidney watching Thomas and knowing he would be misinterpreting Thomas's defence of her.
"Please forgive the Earl Mrs Campion you have touched on a topic that he is very passionate about. I would suggest if you want to talk to someone about fashion and housekeeping I will introduce you to some people who will happily discuss such domestic matters" before she could continue she hears her name being called, and she turns to see Sophia's children rushing towards her. She drops to her knees and they launched themselves on her and she gives them a welcome embrace. Each had brought a toy to show her and asked if she could play with them. Thomas relaxed, explaining to the couple that Charlotte was a favourite among the children. "They gravitate to her like the moon to the earth. Children always have an instinct in knowing who their friends are".
Charlotte had gotten up and had picked up the little girl and Thomas had the boy. This is Lord Edward and Lady Lydia of Melbourne. "Oh, they are gorgeous, hello?" Eliza stiffly trying to sound friendly but only made the children place their arms around the necks of the adults they trusted and hide their faces. Charlotte gently stroking the head of Lydia softy speaking to her and looked up at Sidney. Lydia recognising Sidney puts her arms out to be held by him. Charlotte passing Lydia to Sidney and Lydia places her head on his shoulder. It didn't take long for both children to fall asleep and their governess came to take them away. "Thank you" smiles Charlotte "their father is away on business and they have been missing him."
Lady Sophia arriving and gives Charlotte a kiss on the cheek "My friend, I am so glad you are here, I thought I was not going to know anyone but now everything is going to be well. The children have been so unsettled since their father has been away and I am glad they have fallen asleep." Thomas introduces Sophia to Mrs Campion who was overwhelmed by meeting members of the royal family. Their conversation was interrupted by Diana and Arthur Parker who were already acquainted with theses grand people.
Charlotte had moved away and was looking at the garden again. Sidney had taken the opportunity to speak with her. He was not going to waste his time "Everything in the garden today is beautiful" he says without thinking. Blushing Charlotte reminds him that he is engaged to Mrs Campion.
"What you said to Mrs Campion? Do you believe that about me? " he had not been encouraged for so long time that he struggled to believe any good thing of himself.
"Of course, Mr Parker, you are the men who are working for their wealth and making our country great. Don't think yourself any less because you are worthy and deserved to have the acclaims that any man should have. I don't have time for people who think rank and title is the only measure because it is the heart that matters the most. If Mrs Campion is not encouraging you in your business, then shame on her". The passion and fire within Charlotte's eyes were on display and it took all of Sidney's strength not to take her hand.
Thomas seeing this creates a distraction, so Eliza would not notice.
Now will you please excuse us, but we must meet some people" loudly remarks Thomas. Sophia, I believe your mother will be there. Please excuse us…" He and the ladies walked into a secluded area away from the general party guests. Susan was making sure Charlotte was being introduced to key members of the royal family. She had taken great pleasure in seeing the shock on Eliza's face and the jealous look of Sidney. Eliza spent the rest of the event trying to get closer to Charlotte or Susan but was unsuccessful. As she was preoccupied Sidney jealousy watched Charlotte. He knew where she was and was looking for another opportunity to speak with her.
Charlotte had been successful in evading both Sidney and Eliza by socialising with people whom had not been introduced to them. Thankfully some of her childhood friends were present and it made it easy to avoid them. HRH Prince Michael of Norway was determined to speak with her and it stopped people from approaching them. She found the prince pleasant and they shared many similar interests. Susan told her that she had made an impression on him and he was wanting to spend more time with her. Sidney had been keeping an eye on her all afternoon and noticed the attentions the prince was giving her. His eyes followed her as she socialised with various ladies and gentlemen. It appeared she was quite popular, and everyone wanted to speak with her. Thankfully, Eliza was too busy making connections that she failed to notice a distracted Sidney. Sidney have been quite successful in knowing where Charlotte was but lost sight when Eliza claimed his attention. When he glanced around he couldn't see her, and he noticed he couldn't see Lord Thomas either. He excused himself and made his way to the edge of the garden and decided to look for Charlotte.
The party was spectacular, and the gardens were beautiful. Charlotte was allowed to spend time alone after she had performed her duties for Susan. She wanted to explore the gardens herself and find an enclosed garden off the main avenue. She was feeling frustrated after seeing Eliza and Sidney together. Due to the change in seasons not many people wanted to go far away from the house giving her an opportunity to be alone. She really needed to go and find a secluded place to sit by herself.
She was about to enter one when Thomas appeared with a happy look on his face... "so, how are you going with Miss Lamb?" "She's a stunning woman" he replies. Charlotte was happy for Georgina as she noticed right away that there was some interest between the two. "Where is Georgina?" she asks, "She will be coming soon she just has to speak with her guardian." answered Thomas. Charlotte often felt for Georgina because Georgina didn't like these public events, but she was trying her best for her them. She took a quick breath and accepted she was not going to be alone. "You were very confident and didn't show any emotions when you were faced with that 'couple' encourages Thomas "Thank you, I didn't think I was going to be able to do it but I found the strength" shared Charlotte honestly. To change the mood Thomas decides to change the topic "It is rumoured that Lord Fift often has games hidden away during these events and maybe we will find one now!"
Georgina caught up with them and they entered the enclosed garden. "Hello" a gentleman sitting in the corner of the garden greets the three. He was reading the paper and had a glass of wine in his hand. "I hope you're enjoying the event my wife has put on but I often need to find a quiet place to relax" It was the Lord of the manor who was addressing them. They sat down and complemented him on his home and garden. He told him about his travels around the world and they found him charming and interesting to listen to. Charlotte noticed a target and asks "what games has been set up?" "While I was in the West Indies we threw knifes." Charlotte noticed a table with various knives and she takes a look. "You are welcome to have a go?" invites Lord F. Charlotte picked up a knife and threw it at the target. It was evident that Charlotte was proficient in the use of knives and all the occupants in the enclosed garden started a competition between each other. Charlotte commented "my skills come from being a daughter of a gentleman farmer." The Lord nodded, and Charlotte could see that she wasn't being judged for her country background. She smiles and continues to enjoy the practise.
After a break Charlotte wanted a new challenge and the Lord asked for the servant to place a human outline in front of the target. Charlotte and Thomas were very proficient and hit the spot every time. Charlotte started becoming braver and wanted to do something that will distract her from her personal pain.
"Alright," Charlotte standing in front of the target. She knew Thomas had great skill and she trusted him. She was also excited as she stood still and waited. Thomas went through the motions of his technique, Georgina was excited but fearfully watching and Lord had an amused look on his face. "I have not had so much fun at an event in a long time, but this is to be a secret between us. My wife will be very angry with me if you get hurt Miss Heywood".
Charlotte laughed but regained her composure. Thomas let his knife go and it lands right above her head. Charlotte knew he could get closer and it was at this point Sidney walks through the doorway of the enclosed garden. He had been desperately searching all of the gardens and had lost hope of finding Charlotte. He freezes as knives were flying towards her and landing within inches of her face. "what the hell is going on?" he yells" marching up to Lord Thomas and taking him roughly by the shoulders "how dare you put this woman in such danger!" his eyes had gone dark and he was full of rage. He shook Thomas and reached over to Charlotte forgetting there were others there without thinking yells at Charlotte "what were you thinking? you could've been killed?" his breathing was uneven and his voice was raspy. Charlotte have been surprised by his behaviour and felt that she had been transported back to Sanditon. "I am fine, Mr Parker!" Charlotte fired back with a steel glint in her eyes". Sidney turns and notices that Lord Fift was present and had witness his tirade.
He excused himself ... as he walked away his mind was full of the images of knives being thrown at Charlotte.
Charlotte regretted her behaviour and thought it was best especially for Georgina that she apologises to Sidney. It was funny how she knew instinctively where he would go. She finds him in the study smoking furiously and reading the newspaper. It was evident he was wanting not to be noticed but she coughs, and the paper moves revealing Sidney. He gives her one of his furious looks and puts the paper up again. Charlotte was not going to be put off and waits. He tries to ignore her but could feel her next to him. He puts down the paper and faces her...
"Mr Parker, I am sorry for my behaviour earlier, I acted without thinking, I am sorry that I scared you and hope that you will forgive me?" Sidney looks at her intensely and whispered, "you could've been killed, what would've happened Charlotte if we lost you?... I don't know how much more my heart will take?" he put his head down as shocked by his confession. He had spoken from his heart and Charlotte was overwhelmed.
"I promise Mr Parker, I will be more careful, thank you for your concern".
She waited until he had accepted her apology, poured him a drink and gave back his newspaper back. She turns and walks out of the room. Sidney could still feel her touch on his hands and had been truly shaken by the event in the closed garden. What was he going to do with her? and he stayed in the study until he had to leave the event.
Thomas relates what had happened in the garden to Susan. "He really loves her, I thought he was going to kill me until Charlotte spoke." Thomas smiled, he liked Sidney and he knew the man had acted out of love for her. Thomas also wanted to develop a better relationship with Sidney as he was the guardian of Miss Lamb. "I think we need to help them along" suggested Thomas. Susan finally agrees and they started to put their plans into place...
Sidney and Charlotte will not be able to avoid or deny their feelings for each other any longer...