NOTES: This has been my absolute favorite chapter to write. I hope all of you agree.
I've done an exorbitant amount of research on regency balls, dances, weddings, etiquette, and clothing for weeks preparing for this chapter.
Vocabulary lesson for anyone who doesn't know what some of these terms are. Some were new to me.
Pelisse: Long coat. Think the pink coat Charlotte wears in episode 5.
Quadrilles: A dance with 4 couples standing in a square formation. There are lots of youtube videos. I sat through a bunch of videos with different dance styles trying to decide which dance I wanted to use. This one seemed fun and a little more lighthearted which is what I was looking for.
Banns: When a couple got engaged the reading of the banns had to happen three consecutive weeks in the hometown churches of the bride and groom. It's basically an announcement of the engagement and a chance for anyone to come forward who may object to the match. That whole, "If anyone knows any reason these two should not be joined in marriage, speak now or forever hold your peace."
Courtship Etiquette: When a girl, or man for that matter, is under the age of 21 they must have parental consent to marry. After 21 they didn't necessarily need parental consent but it was still very much a business arrangement between families. Once a proposal was accepted and consent was given, the courtship would begin. Couples were to be chaperoned, however it wasn't uncommon for them to find ways to be alone (Charlotte and Sidney do this a lot). During courtship, private conversations would take place under careful watch, small touches would happen, gifts or tokens would be given. It was a time for couples to get to know each other on a more personal level. It's been established that Charlotte is 22 so she doesn't necessarily need her father's permission to marry, but she would prefer to have his blessing. Alison I picture as about 19 or 20 so she would need her father's permission to marry.
Weddings: Are very similar to what happens in today's weddings. Weddings always took place in the morning before noon. After the formalities at the church a party would take place with a wedding breakfast. The couple would walk or ride in a carriage from the church to their new home or a family home while wedding guests followed and made noise or threw seeds at them. Once at the party, it was very much a huge celebration whether it was an elaborate affair or country affair.
~~Sidney~~
Well before the sun was up, Crowe and I stood outside of Sanditon House dressed in our best, waiting for Charlotte and Alison so we could make the long trip to Willingden. The cold air was biting at our cheeks while we waited. Crowe bounced up and down to try and get warm.
"How long is this going to take?" Crowe complained.
"As long as necessary," I answered.
To our surprise, Lady Worcester emerged from the house wrapped in a long shawl around her shoulders. "I presume you both plan to have conversations with Mr. Heywood today?" she asked.
"I believe we do," I answered.
She smiled politely. "I wish you both luck then and will be praying for a favorable answer."
"Thank you," we both said in unison.
Moments later, Charlotte and Alison emerged from the house. They both had long pelisses on with proper hats on their heads and gloved hands.
Lady Worcester hugged them both, wishing them safe travels before we helped them into the carriage and headed out into the early morning hours. We had a long ride ahead of us. Thankfully, both girls sat on opposite sides from each other, so I was able to sit next to Charlotte rather than Crowe. I was sure they planned it that way.
The first couple of hours were rather quiet as all of us were still drowsy and wishing for just a little more sleep. Halfway through the trip, Alison fell asleep against Crowe's shoulder and shortly after he also fell asleep leaned up against her with his mouth hanging open. How I wished Charlotte would do the same, but she was far too engrossed with the surroundings outside of the carriage to sleep. She watched the sunrise and pointed out a group of deer running across a field and a flock of birds flying through the clouds. I indulged her every whim.
After what seemed like hours in the carriage, we started to get close as Charlotte started pointing out familiar landmarks. Alison and Crowe had now awoken and were looking out the window to see where we were.
Crowe's breathing was heavier, and his face was pale like he was about to be sick. "Do we need to stop for a moment?" I asked. I definitely didn't want him puking all over us before we got there.
"I'll be fine," he assured. "Just a bit nervous." Alison tucked her arm around his and leaned into him to reassure he would be fine. That little bit of connection seemed to calm him tremendously. He smiled at her affectionately and placed his hand on hers. "What do you suppose your family will think of both of you showing up with us?"
"I'm sure it will be quite the shock," Alison said. "To be honest, I never got around to write them and inform them we were coming after all. The last letter I got from mother, she understood why we couldn't make it, but I could tell from the way she wrote her words, she wasn't happy. I think they will be more excited to see us at all and not notice who we arrive with."
"They will notice," Charlotte added with a giggle. "Papa will surely question your purpose for coming."
"I'm sure it won't be hard to figure out," Crowe added.
"Is he an agreeable man?" I wondered.
"I suppose so," Charlotte said. "Although, neither of us have ever brought a man home to meet him. I'm not entirely sure how he will react. Hopefully he left his gun at home."
"Funny," I said as she giggled at her joke. I glanced over at Crowe who looked even worse now.
"Are you as nervous as Mr. Crowe is?" Charlotte asked of me.
"No," I said, taking her hand in mine and squeezing it. She looked away almost like she was disappointed. I leaned into her ear to whisper the truth only she could hear. "I'm terrified."
She turned around and smiled up at me. "What's so terrifying?"
"He may say no. What if he doesn't want you waiting for me to return? What if he doesn't want you marrying someone with large debts? I'm terrified of losing you again," I admitted.
"I suppose it's a good thing I'm of age and can make my own decisions. Even if he says no, I'm not going anywhere."
"Do you truly think he's going to say no?" Crowe asked nervously breaking into our private conversation. He sighed and sunk down in the seat. "I need a drink."
"No, you don't," Alison chided. "You need to trust me. Father will love you because you love me."
"He grinned at her and brushed a wayward strand of hair back into her hat. "If that's all it takes, I suppose I have nothing to worry about."
"Quite right!" Alison said with a smile.
I smirked while listening to them but decided to focus on something else. I brought Charlotte's hand to my lips, letting my kiss linger against the back of her gloved hand. "What is the plan for tomorrow with the Prince Regent and Lady Worcester?"
"Lady Worcester wants to shop in town in the morning. In the early afternoon, the actors are arriving, correct?" I nodded in agreement. "After the show, everyone will dress for the ball. I imagine the assembly rooms will be rather crowded. I'm hoping it's not overwhelming for the Prince Regent."
"We may need to discuss adding on to the building if we continue to have more residents," I suggested.
"Mr. Robinson and Mr. Stringer have talked about doing the same," she said. "I think it would be a good idea if we can find the funding."
I nodded my head in agreement. "Perhaps the Prince Regent will wish to invest."
"Wouldn't that be the most amazing opportunity for Sanditon?" she said excitedly. "I think we impressed him yesterday. At dinner last night, he talked with Lady Denham for hours about how captivated he is with Sanditon."
"I think he's more captivated with you," I teased. "Everyone is captivated by you."
"You aren't jealous, are you?" she teased.
I chuckled and shook my head a couple times. "No. I've decided jealously is something I need to work on. I need to trust your feelings for me."
"Yes, you do," she agreed with a smile.
Alison suddenly got very excited as we pulled into the yard of their childhood church. "Charlotte!" she squealed. "It's everyone."
Crowe and I gave each other a look, and both took a deep breath letting it out in a quick burst. This was it. We were walking into a firing squad where we would either be shot down instantly or tormented until the very end.
"We shouldn't sit together during the ceremony," Charlotte said. "We will be expected to sit with our family. Until agreements are made, it'll be improper for us to sit together."
"Don't worry," I said. "Crowe and I will take a seat in the back so as not to cause a scene."
The carriage stopped and the footman came around to open the door for us. Crowe and I stepped out first and looked around at the crowd of people who were all staring with curious expressions. I noticed Charlotte's parents standing by the doors of the church surrounded by children who were young and in early adolescents. I wished I knew more about Charlotte's parents, so I knew how to impress them and earn their favor. I imagined many of the children running in the yard were some of Charlotte's siblings, but I didn't know much about them either.
I offered my hand for Charlotte to step out of the carriage followed by Crowe who did the same for Alison. I held Charlotte's hand a moment longer than needed for encouragement for both of us. We both knew that was bound to be the last physical contact we would have with each other until after we left.
"Charlotte! Alison!" a child screamed and ran towards them, followed by many other children. Hugs were exchanged between excited siblings seeing their older sisters. Crowe and I stood out of the way, knowing our presence was being questioned by all who were around.
"Those must be their parents," Crowe said, noticing the couple with linked arms walked towards them. I could see the way they glanced at both Crowe and I multiple times.
"You would be right," I agreed turning my head to the side. "I recognize them from the time I came here looking for Georgiana. We are being sized up already."
"They must know why we are here," Crowe said sounding dreadful. "Good God, I need a drink."
I chuckled. "You and me both."
"Charlotte, Alison, we weren't expecting you," their mother said.
"We decided to surprise you," Alison said giving both her parents a hug. "We were able to find out a way to come after all thanks to Mr. Crowe and Mr. Parker." She motioned towards us with a dip of her head and a glance in our direction. "The Prince Regent and Lady Worcester are being entertained by Lord and Lady Babington today as well Lady Denham, I'm sure."
"Lords, Ladies, Prince Regent… What type of company do my girls keep in this Sanditon place?" their father asked.
"It's far different than Willingden, Papa," Charlotte said giving him a hug as well. "You would be quite proud of all we have accomplished in Sanditon."
"Yes, your letter mentioned how you were working on rebuilding the houses," he said.
"It's far more than that. She oversaw the entire project," I interjected talking proudly of Charlotte. I realized after I said it, I more than likely shouldn't have.
Her father looked me up and down as if he was already angry. "Mr. Sidney Parker, is it not?"
"Yes, Mr. Heywood, it is," I said shaking his hand.
"And who might you be?" he asked, looking at Crowe.
Crowe cleared his throat and stepped forward offering his hand to shake. "Mr. Matthew Crowe."
"I see."
"Papa, Mr. Crowe and Mr. Parker offered to escort us here in the carriage so we could be here for George's wedding," Alison explained.
"My girls alone in a carriage with two men?" their mother asked with disbelief.
"It's a long trip, mother. Anything could happen. Don't you think it was sensible for us to travel with a man's protection?" Charlotte asked.
"I suppose I can overlook it since it was merely for protection purposes," she agreed with a knowing grin, giving both Charlotte and Alison another hug before walking them towards the church and asking all about their adventures. Small children followed close behind. They were greeted at the doors by many more smiling faces of who I assumed were close friends and family.
"Well, gentlemen. Do you care to join us for our son's wedding?" Mr. Heywood asked us.
"Of course," I accepted, answering for the both of us and following him into the church. Crowe and I sat down in a back pew, feeling a little more at ease with the whole situation. Mr. Heywood joined his family in the front pews where Charlotte and Alison now sat.
"I suppose we can say that was a welcome greeting," Crowe theorized. "At least we weren't asked to leave."
"I don't necessarily like that Mr. Heywood remembered who I was. The last time I was here, I barged into their home looking for Georgiana and was chastised by Charlotte in front of them."
"She does a lot of chastising you, doesn't she? Perhaps, Mr. Parker gets off on a girl putting him in his place," he teased.
I chuckled. "And perhaps Mr. Crowe gets off on a girl who makes him change his ways."
"Oh, you are entirely correct," he agreed. "She has changed me in more than one way and I definitely like who I am when I'm with her. But she won't change my ways in bed, I can assure you of that."
"Does she know this?" I asked, knowing full well Crowe was an animal with women.
He grinned giving me the side eye. "She will."
I smirked and shook my head thinking about how someone should probably warn Alison of his animalistic ways. She should be prepared.
"She's a tough woman. She can handle me," he said.
"Let's hope so," I said.
His comment got me thinking about Charlotte and what she would want or enjoy in bed. I imagined she would want to go slow at first but would be more forthcoming with time. I smiled at the thought and couldn't wait for it to be true.
The room became quiet and everyone stood for the bride's entrance. Crowe and I stood and placed our hands behind our backs and watched the ceremony silently. It was a traditional ceremony, nothing special or different than any other wedding. I didn't pay much attention, instead keeping my focus on Charlotte in the front pew. From time to time she would smile at Alison or quiet a sibling who was getting antsy in their seat. It got me thinking about the wedding I almost had to go through with Eliza, who didn't want children present at all. Charlotte would want all of her siblings at our wedding. She'd want my nieces and nephews there. Practically the whole church would be filled with children. What a sight that would be. A sight I looked forward to and prayed would come sooner rather than later.
Once the wedding was over, we followed the crowd outside where seeds were thrown at the emerging couple. Celebration filled the air while everyone congratulated the new couple and offered well wishes. The crowd followed the couple up the road to the Heywood farm where food and drinks filled tables and family and friends mingled and enjoyed the day together.
Crowe and I stood off to the side with a drink in hand, not necessarily feeling like we belonged. Charlotte seemed to know everyone and was happy to greet them and have friendly conversation. I watched her move around the yard talking to people and spending time with her siblings, picking some of the younger ones up and holding them on her hip. I smiled at every reaction she had with them. It was clear she would make the most wonderful mother, which was something I truly wanted. We were compatible in so many ways, but our hope of a family was an important compatibility.
"At least I'll get one drink," Crowe said. "I promised Alison I'd only have one."
"She truly does have you wrapped around her finger," I laughed.
"She makes me a better man," he said shrugging his shoulders like it was the most normal thing in the world. "Besides, Alison wants children. I refuse to be anything like my own father was. I want to be the father I never had. If it means no more drinking, then so be it."
"I suppose I know just how that might be," I settled. He sipped at his drink with a knowing grin on his face.
My eyes connected with Charlotte's from across the yard causing me to smile. A few moments later, she collected Alison and both of them walked towards us. I wished I could reach out and take her hands in mine and even pull her closer to me, but I knew I couldn't. Instead, they both stood a distance away while we talked.
"Are you enjoying yourselves?" Charlotte asked.
"As much as can be possible when we feel as if everyone is questioning our presence. Would I be wrong in thinking your family must know why we are here?" Crowe asked.
"I'm sure they suspect, but nothing has been spoken yet," Alison answered.
"Should we go to your father and ask to speak to him?" Crowe wondered.
"Give it some time. He will want to be a good host to the guests first. I'm sure after a while guests will start to dwindle," Charlotte suggested.
A few townspeople started playing music and a couple people took to preparing for a dance.
"In the meantime, shall we dance?" I asked, drinking off the rest of my drink and offering my arm to Charlotte. She smiled and took my arm as I escorted her over to where the rest of the dancers were. Crowe followed suit and escorted Alison behind us. The quadrilles dance began, so Charlotte and I stood opposite Alison and Crowe while the other two couples took the other sides to create a square shape.
Bows and curtsies were made from one couple to the next before the upbeat music began. We danced around Alison and Crowe and did spins in the middle of the couples, then switched partners, so I danced with Alison for a bit while Crowe danced with Charlotte, then went back to our partners. It was a long dance, but enjoyable since the four of us made it fun and laughed through the steps and mishaps. The other two couples didn't seem to appreciate our banter, but we didn't seem to care. We were having fun and it was a welcome release of built up tension.
After the dance, we walked away still laughing and feeling lighter.
"I wish all dancing was that fun," Charlotte said. "Mr. Crowe, I don't believe we've ever danced before, but I must say you were an excellent dance partner."
"I thank you for that compliment," he said bowing his head. "You are quite a nice dancer yourself. Perhaps we will have to dance again tomorrow night at the Sanditon Ball."
"Perhaps we should," she agreed.
"I do believe you told me once you didn't plan to attend anymore balls since they always end badly. Have you since changed your mind?" I asked of Charlotte.
"I'm sure you can imagine the tongue lashing I'd get from Lady Denham if I decided not to attend," Charlotte explained. "I'm not entirely looking forward to it, but I must go. It's for Sanditon, after all. I pray this ball ends differently."
"I will do everything in my power to make sure of that," I promised. "And I insist on the first dance of the night."
She smiled up at me with those adoring eyes. "Who else would I dance first with?"
"Perhaps the Prince Regent will sweep you off your feet," I teased.
Alison and Crowe laughed. "He doesn't seem like the type of man who would prefer dancing," Alison said.
"I haven't met the man, but I imagine he will be bored out of his mind at this ball," Crowe added. "Everyone practically throwing themselves at his feet trying to gain his favor. It'll be quite the spectacle."
"I suppose since Alison and I have already met him, we won't have to worry about throwing ourselves at him and can focus on dancing with both of you instead," Charlotte offered.
"I think I prefer that idea," I added with a chuckle.
"Charlotte, Alison, may I steal you away for a moment?" their mother interjected. Crowe and I watched as their mother steered them away and seemed to be having a serious talk with them.
"Do you suppose everything is alright?" Crowe asked while we watched from a distance.
We were so focused on what was happening that we didn't notice Mr. Heywood coming up behind us. "Well, I can't imagine two gentlemen like yourselves escorting my daughters to Willingden while the Prince Regent visits Sanditon, unless they had ulterior motives for doing so," Mr. Heywood said. "Shall we take a walk and get to know each other better?"
"Yes sir," I said walking in step with him with Crowe to his other side.
"After watching both of you with my daughters today, I'm assuming there have been exchanges of promises."
"Yes sir, there have," Crowe answered.
"I'd like to know more if you don't mind," he said, offering us both a moment to speak.
Crowe went first. "Sir, I wish to marry Alison. I've only known her a short time, but I know it's right. She makes me happy in every way possible. I'm a better man because of her. My intentions are pure and true. I can offer her a comfortable life. I don't wish to ask you for anything in return. I only wish for your permission."
"I see," he said. "And what about you? Are you asking for the same?"
My heart was racing, and my throat was dry. I wasn't sure I'd be able to get a word out. "I imagine I do, sir. My situation may be a little different as Charlotte and I will need to wait to wed for a couple years. Charlotte is aware of the reasons and has agreed."
"What sort of reasons?" he wondered.
"I'd prefer not to divulge in the reasons at this time, but it's not hidden from Charlotte. She's fully aware of my situation."
"If you wish not to divulge the information I request, I fear I must say no," he replied. I glanced at Crowe who looked as white as a sheet. I was sure I probably looked the same.
"I imagine Charlotte wishes to have her father's blessing. However, she's a headstrong woman who chooses her own path. We will wed with or without your permission," I said boldly.
"You clearly know my Charlotte well," he said with a smile. "How am I to know you aren't going to hurt her again?" I looked at him with disbelief, my air catching in my lungs. Had Charlotte told him what happened with Mrs. Campion? She never told me she had. "I'm sure you're wondering how I might know you were the one to hurt her. When she returned home, I knew something happened. The only explanation was matters of the heart. I tried to get her to tell me for weeks, but she never let on what happened. I figured it out when you came barging into our home and the way you looked at her and the way she looked at you. There was hurt in her eyes, but also so much love. I had hoped she would move on, but it doesn't look as if she did."
"Neither of us were able to move on," I said. "It took some time, but we found our way back to each other. I have absolutely no intention of losing her again."
"And what of your engagement to Mrs. Eliza Campion?" he asked. "It was all over the papers for weeks. Then there was a notice stating the wedding had been postponed. Should I assume the engagement was ended honorably?"
I huffed and closed my eyes for a moment. I had underestimated Mr. Heywood. He knew far more than I anticipated. "Not exactly," I said truthfully. "Like I said, our engagement will be longer than Mr. Crowe and Alison's."
"Are you hoping Mrs. Campion will find someone else?" he asked.
"Yes, sir. I am. She has done it before, she will do it again."
"And my Charlotte is alright with this arrangement?" he questioned.
"She is."
"Sounds as if arrangements have already been decided. I'm of no use to you, Mr. Parker," he said sounding angry. "As for Alison, she can marry after Charlotte does."
"But sir…" Crowe complained. "That's not fair to her nor to me. We wish to marry as soon as possible."
"It's not fair to Charlotte to be in waiting while her younger sister weds first. I can't imagine their relationship would be the same if I were to allow it. My decision stands," he said firmly before walking away.
Crowe and I stood glued to the ground trying to come to terms with what just happened. Neither of us came out with favorable answers. Now I had a new burden of Crowe and Alison being able to wed hanging over me. I dropped my head and sighed heavily.
"Forgive me, Crowe. I thought that would go differently," I apologized.
"I don't know if I can wait two years," he complained. "Especially when there's no guarantee two years will be enough."
"I'll try to talk to him again," I offered. "Please don't say anything to Charlotte or Alison yet."
I bolted towards Mr. Heywood calling after him to wait for me. When I finally caught up to him, I breathlessly asked him to hear me out. "I understand what you must be thinking of me."
"Do you?" he questioned still looking at me with an angry expression.
"I'm sure I look like the worst scoundrel in all of England to you. I hurt Charlotte by engaging myself to someone else when I made it clear I had intensions of asking her first. I know how that must look, but please allow me to explain. I'll tell you everything."
"Alright," he agreed skeptically. "Make me understand."
"First, I want to say I never took advantage of Charlotte's goodness. She is a pure and admirable woman. She's my perfect match in every way possible. She has changed me into my best and truest self." He stared at me unchanged while I spoke. I took a deep breath to prepare for the story. "The night I had planned to ask Charlotte to marry me, we were interrupted by a fire in Sanditon. Once the fire was out and all the devastation it caused was realized, I had no choice but to engage myself to Mrs. Campion. We had a history. I thought I was in love with her for many years. We were once engaged but she broke off the engagement to marry an older, richer man. She did it purely for money and status. That incident broke me. I became guarded and closed off to almost everyone. Until Charlotte came into my life, I had done a good job of hiding for ten years. She broke through everything I was holding back and saw my truest self. Unfortunately, after the fire I found out my brother Tom didn't have insurance on the buildings and was now in debt for eighty thousand pounds. He has a wife and four young children and was facing debtor's prison. I couldn't let that happen. I engaged myself to Mrs. Campion purely for money to save my brother. I didn't love her anymore. She made me put all those walls back up that Charlotte had knocked down. If there was another way, I would have done it."
"What has changed now that marrying Charlotte seems possible? Are you hoping Mrs. Campion will die shortly after you marry her?"
"No," I said horrified. "I don't plan to marry her. I decided I had to find another way. I took everything I had and gave it to Lady Denham to pay off the debt my brother owes. It wasn't eighty thousand pounds by any means, but she accepted it with conditions. She loves Charlotte like a daughter. Most everyone loves Charlotte. Lady Denham won't let me marry her until the debt is paid in full. She doesn't wish for Charlotte to be married to a poor man."
"You gave up everything you own for Charlotte?" he questioned.
"Yes sir, I did. Unfortunately, I have nothing to offer your daughter. I don't have a home, I don't have money, and I don't have any means to give her the life she deserves. This is precisely the reason our engagement needs to be longer. I have business connections in Antigua from many years ago. I have an opportunity to build my wealth up again, but it might take a few years. I'm hoping for only two, but there's no guarantee of that. I hope when I return, I'll be able to pay the rest of the debt and Charlotte and I will be able to wed then."
"And what about your brother? Is he not helping to pay the debt?" he asked.
"My brother is not the greatest businessman. He has great ideas but doesn't know how to see it through without mistakes. If there was a way for my brother to pay it, I'd gladly let him. It's just not possible. At the moment, I'm supporting my entire family on next to nothing."
"And what of your engagement to Mrs. Campion?" he questioned.
"She's passed me over before, she will do it again. She's after status now that she has the fortune she was after. She wanted me to better her social status. Without a fortune to my own name and being gone for a couple years, she will marry someone else, I'm sure of it," I assured.
"And Charlotte knows all of this?" he asked.
"She knows everything. I tried to keep it from her at first, thinking I needed to fix it all before I returned to her. But I realized I was only hurting her more and came clean." I laughed thinking on it. "I'm surprised she still wanted me after everything I've done to hurt her."
He sighed. "I'm surprised as well, to be honest. But I imagine there must be a reason she still does."
"I beg you not to punish Alison and Mr. Crowe because I'm unable to marry Charlotte yet. I don't need yet another burden on my shoulders. I can't be responsible for their unhappiness as well," I begged.
"Don't you believe Charlotte would feel slighted if her younger sister wed before her?" he asked.
"I don't at all. Charlotte loves Alison and only wants her to be happy. She'd sacrifice everything for Alison's happiness as she would for anyone she truly cares about."
He nodded his head and pursed his lips while staring at me intently. "I suppose you both are much the same in that aspect. So willing to sacrifice for your family."
"Family is important to both of us," I said.
"Yes, I see that," he observed. "I will need some time to think on this. I do appreciate you being honest with me, Mr. Parker."
I bowed. "I appreciate you giving me the time to explain. I hope you don't think too badly of me."
"On the contrary, Mr. Parker. I find what you did noble."
He nodded and gave me a slight smile before excusing himself and walking back towards the party. I took a few steadying breaths feeling as if I just ran a marathon, before returning to the party as well. I found Alison and Crowe standing together talking with Mrs. Heywood, but I didn't see Charlotte anywhere among the crowds of people.
"Do you know where Charlotte is?" I asked Crowe and Alison.
"She was just here a moment ago," Crowe said looking around and trying to look for her. Alison and even their mother looked around the crowd trying to find her.
"She's probably at the bridge," Alison whispered for only me to hear.
I gave her a smile to thank her before excusing myself and walking around the crowds nonchalantly looking for her until I knew no one was watching me. I headed out down the road until I came upon the bridge Alison spoke of and saw Charlotte's figure standing at the top and looking down at the water lost in thought. She had removed her pelisse and hat letting her hair blow free in the wind. She wore a simple white dress with a flower pattern, but to me she looked like the most beautiful woman alive.
I smiled as I came upon her unknowingly. "Penny for your thoughts, Miss Heywood?" I teased.
She turned around with a pleasant smile on her face. "The ubiquitous Mr. Parker. Seems I cannot escape you," she baited playfully.
I laughed and came face to face with her. "I surely hope not. I don't wish to ever be parted from you." I reached for her hands and took them in mine, affectionately rubbing her knuckles with my thumbs. "Now, what's so heavy on your mind?"
"You surely don't wish to know my thoughts right now," she said ducking her head and looking shy.
"On the contrary, I always wish to know your thoughts as your opinion is the only one that matters to me. I'm eager to know what has taken you so far away from the party."
"I've just been thinking about my childhood and how many memories I have of this place. During the dryer months when the water isn't as high, I can climb down the embankment here and sit under the bridge on a rock. I would sit down there for hours reading and be completely hidden from the outside world. I'd be lost in a book and my own naivety not having a care in the world. Now it seems everything has changed. This place doesn't hold the same connection as it once did. I'm not that naïve girl anymore who only dreamed of romance. Somehow love found me when I wasn't looking." Her eyes met mine with so much passion and need, I was almost tempted to take my chances with a kiss. My luck, her father would walk upon us and spoil the moment. He would rightly never let me marry her if he caught us kissing. Being alone right now was taking a huge chance.
"It seems love has found me as well, when I wasn't looking," I agreed.
"What did my father say?" she wondered.
"He doesn't seem to like me much. I'm afraid he will turn me down," I admitted.
Her head dropped and a sadness filled her face. "No matter," she decided. "Just another obstacle we have to overcome."
"Charlotte," I began, whispering her name. I sighed and dropped my head.
"What is it?" she asked nervously.
I took a deep breath and dropped to one knee looking up at her. The realization that crossed her face made me smile. "Charlotte Heywood, I love you beyond measure. I don't know if your father will give us his blessing or not. But I only wish to spend my life with you. I know I'm not perfect and I'm sure I'll make plenty of mistakes along the way. Yet I know you'll put me in my place and help me to be a better man. I know it's not ideal to have to wait, but I'm asking you to marry me with the promise that no matter how long it takes, I will return to you and make you my wife. Together we will overcome all obstacles in our path. Marry me, Charlotte."
Tears filled her eyes. She shakily let out the breath she was holding and smiled. I grinned crookedly, feeling completely and utterly in love with her in that moment.
"You know my answer is yes. It's always yes. I love you and nothing is ever going to change my feelings for you. Yes, Sidney Parker, I will marry you." I stood and lost all train of thought. I kissed her more passionately than I ever had before. Our lips moved together like they were perfectly made for one another. I breathed her in like my life depended on it. She was my oxygen, my lifeline, my reason for living. She was everything I never knew I needed.
Her hands wrapped around my neck, pulling me down to her as I continued to deepen the kiss and take my chances by holding her close against me.
As much as I wanted to be lost in the moment, I knew we could very easily be seen by just about anyone. I stopped with a deep sigh and leaned my forehead against hers. "I should get you back before we are discovered."
"Yes. You're right," she agreed. Even though both of us knew we needed to go, neither of us made to move away from each other. I never wished to be parted from her again. Thoughts filled my mind of eloping. Was it even possible to marry her before I left for Antigua? Could we go together? Would she agree? As much as I wanted it to be possible, I knew it wouldn't be what she wanted. I wanted her to have the wedding she always dreamed of. My time in Antigua was going to be short if I had anything to say about it. I would not stay gone longer than two years. Even if I didn't have all the money for Lady Denham, I'd return and hope she'd take pity on me. Or perhaps take pity on Charlotte.
She laughed thinking about something and pulled her forehead away from mine.
"What is it?" I asked curiously.
"I was thinking on how I received your wedding announcement to Mrs. Campion while I was under the bridge weeks ago and how upset I was reading it. Alison was with me and she took it, ripping it into little pieces and throwing it in the river to be washed away. Now you've gone and asked me to marry you in that same spot. Perhaps ripping it up was a sign of what was to come." she giggled at the irony of it.
"Mrs. Campion actually sent you a wedding announcement?" I asked, feeling shocked and enraged at Eliza's audacity. "She is the most wicked person I've ever known. I'm so thankful I came to my senses. Alison did the right thing by ripping it up and throwing it in the river. A man can't step in the same river twice. That river has already been swept away long ago. This new river is special, fresh, and perfect in every way." I wrapped my arms around her tighter and held her close.
"My thoughts exactly," she said with a grin. I took another chance and kissed her again, but just a quick kiss before I broke our connection and took her hand in mine to walk her back to the party. I was sure we were being missed.
"Answer me something, Charlotte. When we are able to marry, where would you like to live? I know you felt very uncomfortable in London. Sanditon seems to hold a special place in your heart, but Willingden is where your family is."
"I would like to stay in Sanditon," she blurted. "I think I decided weeks ago it's my home. It's where I feel like I belong. I have plenty of memories in Willingden and wish to visit often, but my home is in Sanditon, preferably with you by my side."
"Sanditon it is, then."
"Is it what you want?" she asked.
"I'm an outlier remember. I'll be happy wherever you are."
She squeezed my hand and leaned into me.
"One of these days we'll need to come back here so you can show me more of your secret spots and tell me all of your memories," I requested.
"I would like that."
"Perhaps during our next visit, you can take me hunting," I suggested.
"Perhaps I might," she agreed with a grin.
As we got closer to the party, I released Charlotte's hand and stepped away from her to put some space between us. She walked over to her mother and a few of her younger sisters, joining them in conversation.
I walked over to Crowe. "Where have you been?" he asked sarcastically.
"Just asking Charlotte to marry me," I said with a grin.
"You haven't asked her yet? I thought you already did days ago?"
"In a way, we declared we would marry. But I never asked her properly."
"Did she say yes?" he asked.
"Of course, she did, Crowe," I laughed.
He shook his head and sighed dramatically. "I just thought of something. We are about to become brothers. Perhaps we need to rethink this whole marriage thing," he teased.
"You can rethink all you want," I scoffed. "I'm not rethinking anything."
"What about Mr. Heywood? Any change of heart? I can't believe we have to wait until you and Charlotte are able to marry. I think I might sell off the Crowe estate to help pay off that debt a little quicker."
"I would definitely appreciate that possibility," I said.
"I don't plan to ever live there, and Alison has agreed we shouldn't live there either. It's just sitting there going to waste. Someone might as well put it to use."
"Tell me, Crowe. Have you talked to Alison about where she'd like to live?"
"I have. She said she'd be happy wherever I wish to live. I'll probably purchase a modest home in London for us. What about you?"
"Charlotte wants to stay in Sanditon. I guess I shouldn't be surprised by that notion. She helped build it after all. Of course, she'd want to stay there. When I have the means to do so, I want to have a grand home looking over the ocean built for her."
"Or perhaps, she can build it for the both of you," he teased.
"Perhaps you're right. She very well could build it. Or at least design it," I agreed. "Have you considered staying in Sanditon?"
"I suppose it would make sense for Alison and Charlotte to remain close. Perhaps I'll start looking around Sanditon for the perfect home," he thought.
"I'm sure Charlotte would appreciate staying close to Alison; especially while I'm gone," I reminded. He nodded his head in agreement.
"We really should be going soon," he reminded. "It's getting late in the day and we still have a long trip ahead of us. How exactly should we go about pulling Alison and Charlotte away?"
"I'll take care of it," I offered. "Get the carriage ready and I'll go talk to them."
"Mr. Parker," Charlotte's mom greeted as I came upon them. "I've barely had a moment to speak to you. Have you enjoyed your time in Willingden?"
"I most certainly have. Thank you for your hospitality. We really should be going, though. We have a long trip back to Sanditon and there's a certain Lady who is expecting Charlotte and Alison to go shopping with her in the morning."
"I almost forgot," Charlotte fretted. "Lady Susan will want to leave early. We really should be going so we can get some sleep before morning."
"Already?" her mother whined. "It seems as if you just arrived. I feel like I've barely gotten to speak to you."
"We will come back for a longer visit soon, right Mr. Parker?" Charlotte asked.
"Of course," I agreed with a grin. It didn't go unnoticed that she told her mother the next time we came to visit we would come together. I was sure her mother picked up on it as well as she grinned at Charlotte and then at me.
She gave Charlotte a hug. "I'm looking forward to your next visit, then."
"I'll go get Alison so she can say goodbye," Charlotte said.
"Mr. Parker," Mrs. Heywood began. "There's a special bond between a mother and her firstborn child. Charlotte was my first. She made me a mother. I expect only the best for her."
"As do I, Mrs. Heywood. She will have everything her heart desires, I assure you. I will take good care of her," I promised.
She smiled. "I'm sure you will."
Alison appeared giving her mom a hug goodbye. Charlotte was hugging all her siblings as Crowe came around with the carriage. He exited and walked over to join us. Crowe and I congratulated the newly married couple once again with hand shakes while Alison and Charlotte hugged both of them. Alison began to cry, having to say goodbye to her family so soon. She gave her father a hug who whispered something in her ear before she walked towards Crowe who offered his hand to help her in the carriage. Mr. Heywood stepped towards Crowe shaking his hand and in his own way accepting Crowe into the family. Crowe entered the carriage and sat down next to Alison.
I took a deep breath wondering if I would receive the same parting from Mr. Heywood. Charlotte came towards me and took my hand to help her in. I paused a moment waiting to see if Mr. Heywood would say something, but he didn't. I nodded my head towards him and went to enter the carriage.
"Mr. Parker," Mr. Heywood called out. "A word."
I stepped away from the carriage and followed him a few steps away.
"I've had some time to think about what you told me. I find what you did for your family, for Charlotte, even what you are trying to do for Alison and Mr. Crowe today very honorable. I also admire your integrity by telling me the truth about your situation. I would be very proud to have Charlotte marry such an admirable man. Mrs. Heywood and I will continue to pray for both of you to find a way out of the debt so a marriage can happen sooner rather than later. In the meantime, you can let Mr. Crowe and my Alison know they will have my permission to marry as soon as they are ready. I will put in the request for the banns to be read at our church this weekend."
I let out the breath I was holding in and reached out to shake his hand vigorously. "Thank you, sir."
"Just make my Charlotte happy. Take care of her."
"I will."
I nodded my head thanking him once more before joining Charlotte on the bench in the carriage.
"What was that about?" Charlotte asked as we began to pull away.
I smiled at her. "He's given me permission to marry you."
The grin on her face was radiant. I don't think I'd ever seen her so happy.
"Did he say anything else?" Crowe asked eagerly.
"Yes," I answered with a grin. "He said you and Alison are free to marry whenever you're ready. He's going to begin having the banns read this weekend at their church."
NOTES: Let me know what everyone thinks of this chapter. Like I said, it's been my favorite to write, hence the reason it's fairly long. I get wordy when I'm having fun. I'm eager to know everyone's thoughts; good or bad.