NOTES: I'm sorry this chapter took so long. Without going into too much detail, I work in a group home for mentally disabled people and one of the residents was triggered by something and attacked me last weekend. I'm fine. I was only bruised and scratched. It was pretty scary, though. I had to take a few days just to recover and feel normal again before I could write. I think my inability to write for a while made me wordy. I had to break this chapter into 2 parts. I wasn't going to, but as I kept writing, it was going to end up being a 20,000+ word chapter. Even split the chapters are long. I don't think anyone will mind, right? I should be posting the next chapter on Sunday.
Like I said in the last chapter, I do an exorbitant amount of time doing research on balls and weddings, but I also spend a lot of time looking at ball gowns and jewelry. I'm considering posting the dresses and jewelry pictures I choose for inspiration on twitter. Does anyone want to see it or is better left to your own imagination? If you don't already follow me on twitter you can find me at graffiti4. I don't post a lot, as I do still have 10 kids (they won't go away). But I try to get on there at least once a day and do some #savesanditon hashtags.
Also, I want to thank those who have left reviews. I always love reading them. For those of you new to Sanditon, there's a petition to save Sanditon. I think with everything the actors and crew have been saying and doing lately, it's very possible it'll happen. I'm holding out hope. If you haven't signed the petition, joined twitter to fight, or joined the facebook groups, you totally should.
~~Charlotte~~
After the initial excitement from being informed we were allowed to marry wore off, I became very tired. Sidney sat next to me, holding onto my hand and occasionally bringing it to his lips. I had removed the gloves from earlier so as not to have a barrier between us. The four of us talked for most of the trip and occasionally had side conversations as private as possible. Eventually, Alison and Mr. Crowe assumed their earlier position of sleeping against each other. I had done a good job staying awake on the way there. I didn't want to waste a moment being close to Sidney by sleeping. Now it seemed impossible to keep my eyes open. Without even realizing I was doing it, I began to nod off, first dropping my head forward and then dropping it backwards. Eventually, Sidney reached over and gently eased my head onto his shoulder.
"It's alright to sleep," he whispered. "I'm rather tired myself."
"I don't want to lose a moment being with you," I said. "Very soon you'll be gone for an indefinite amount of time. I want to take advantage of every moment I have with you."
"You are with me. After we are married, you'll be sleeping next to me every night. I'm eager for those days to come. This could be practice. Crowe and Alison don't seem to have a problem with practicing," he chuckled.
I smiled and thought on how we would go to bed every night and wake up together every morning. If only it was possible sooner rather than later. I wanted to be connected to him for life. I didn't want to wait any longer. We'd waited long enough. I leaned into him further and got comfortable all while he leaned over and kissed the top of my head and rested his own head against mine. I thought about what my mother had told us when she pulled us away during the party. She wanted to make sure we were still pure and there hadn't been any sharing of our bodies with a man, which we both assured her had never happened. For me, I was quickly reminded of the time I went sea-bathing in my shift and was later informed Sidney had been there. I didn't intentionally share my body with him, but he saw more of me than anyone else ever had. I'd also seen his body at that same cove and still dreamed of it often. Someday, we'd be able to share our bodies with each other openly. The thought thrilled me and wanted marriage to happen soon.
"Sidney," I began quietly so as not to wake Alison or Mr. Crowe. "If it were possible, would you marry me sooner?"
"Of course," he answered. "There's nothing I wouldn't do if I could make that possible."
"What if it was?" I asked.
"What did you have in mind?" he asked curiously. "Lady Denham won't allow it."
"If I talk to her, perhaps she will give in. And if she won't, I'll go back to Willingden or I can go to London with Lady Susan. Once free, we can take off for Scotland and marry there in secret. We can go to Antigua and rebuild Lady Denham's fortune together."
He breathed heavily as if pondering the idea. "Believe me, I've considered this notion. As much as I'd love to go forward with the plan, I don't want you to be looked at as a ruined woman. Women who elope in Scotland are seen as women whose reputations are unfavorable. I don't want that for you."
"I don't care what people think. I just want us to be together. I don't want you leaving me behind again," I whined.
"Do you want that for your younger sisters?" he asked. "They'd be looked down upon as well. I can't do that to your family. I promised your mother and father I'd take care of you. How can I possibly keep that promise if I can't marry you honorably?"
I huffed in protest. "There has to be a way."
He kissed the top of my head again, letting his lips linger a moment. "If you think of something that doesn't ruin your reputation or that of your family, let me know." I got comfortable next to Sidney and was asleep within no time while he rested his head against mine, our hands clasped in his lap.
After a while, the carriage stopped abruptly, causing all of us to wake in a start. The glow from the moonlight hitting Sanditon House shined through the window of the carriage. The dread of having to leave Sidney was overwhelming. Today was the most wonderful day I'd ever spent with him. We talked, we laughed, we touched and kissed, he proposed marriage, and he gained approval from my father. There could never be a day as glorious as today. As soon as Alison and I stepped out of the carriage we would be expected to be the prim and proper young women we were raised to be, not the carefree women in love we had been in the enclosed private space of the carriage. We all sat up in our seats, stretching and yawning trying to wake up and shake off the travel aches and pains.
"Would it be presumptuous of me to ask for a moment of privacy for a goodnight kiss?" Mr. Crowe asked looking at Sidney before turning in his seat, so his back was facing us.
Sidney smacked him on the shoulder with a chuckle. "Only if I get a moment of privacy as well."
"You forget, you haven't asked if you will be granted a goodnight kiss," Alison teased.
"We're practically married. Do I always have to ask for permission?" Mr. Crowe wondered.
"Perhaps," Alison teased. I loved listening to their banter. Alison was a good match for Mr. Crowe. She kept him in check, but he seemed lighter and more carefree when he was with her. He seemed happy as did she. I adored seeing my sister so in love.
"While you two work that out, I'm going to take my moment of privacy," Sidney said before leaning towards me. His hand gently pressed against my cheek and tilted my face to meet his lips for a searing and urgent kiss. There was no asking, no hesitation, no regret on either of our parts. I would never deny him a kiss in all my life. My lips were his and his mine. I would take what was mine whenever I felt I needed, as I hoped he would as well. We were joined for life even if not legally yet.
When we pulled away, he rested his forehead against mine, his eyes still closed reveling in the last moment we would have together. "I wish you a pleasant evening," he said barely over a whisper.
"Goodnight," I breathed against his lips taking one last kiss. Both of us took a deep breath before breaking apart. Sidney stepped out of the carriage and offered his hand to help me out. I hesitated, wishing he would get back in and we could have just one moment more. Once I knew that wasn't possible, I took his hand and stepped out of the carriage. He smiled and placed his other hand on top of our joined hands for one last connection. Our eyes connected with such longing.
"Can I ask a favor?" he asked.
"Anything," I answered.
"Would you invite Georgiana on your shopping excursion? She's been feeling down lately. I believe a shopping trip may be just what she needs to bring up her spirits."
I smiled. "You mustn't worry. I had already planned to invite her. I know I've neglected her lately and feel terrible for doing so. Now that most of the rebuild is done, I plan to spend much more time with her."
He leaned closer. "This is why I know you are my perfect match." We stood looking into each other's eyes, begging for another kiss, but knowing we couldn't. He released my hand and took a step away with a heavy sigh. His jaw clenched and he looked down at the ground with a frustrated look on his face.
I peeked back into the carriage and called for Alison, who was still kissing Mr. Crowe quite passionately. I had to say her name three times and tug on her arm before she was finally released from him. They said their goodbyes and Sidney helped Alison out of the carriage. Sidney and I shared one last glance before he got back in the carriage and left with Mr. Crowe. Alison and I linked arms and walked into the house. It was late in the evening, but Lady Denham and Lady Susan were still sitting up. We walked into the drawing room and were welcomed back kindly.
"There's some tea and food left out for both of you," Lady Denham offered. "I'm sure you must be famished."
"Quite," I said. Alison and I walked over to the small table and filled a plate with light finger foods and poured ourselves some tea.
"How was the wedding?" Lady Susan asked.
"Very beautiful," I answered. "Our brother George has been looking forward to marrying Jane for many years now."
"It was a very pleasant trip. We enjoyed seeing our family for a short visit," Alison added.
"I see Mr. Sidney Parker joined you on your excursion," Lady Denham said. "Whose idea was it for him to attend?"
"Mine, Lady Denham," I answered directly. "I asked him to come." She didn't look pleased.
"I'm glad Mr. Parker came," Alison said. "He helped Mr. Crowe feel more at ease given he had an important question to ask my father."
"And what was the outcome of their conversation?" Lady Susan asked, looking quite amused.
"He said yes!" Alison shouted with exhilaration. "Father is going to have the Banns read at our church starting this week."
"Sounds to me you have a lot to plan," Lady Susan said with a grin.
"I hadn't even thought of that," Alison said looking fearful. "I was so caught up in the moment of father saying yes, I completely forgot about the planning."
"Do not despair, we will have plenty of time to come up with something fit for a princess," I assured, placing my hand on hers for comfort.
"I fear I won't sleep a wink until we say our vows," Alison fretted.
"Young girls are all the same once they find a husband. Wouldn't you agree Lady Worcester?" Lady Denham asked.
"Rightly so, I would imagine," she answered. "To be young and in love. It's a wonderful thing to watch unfold."
Lady Denham hummed in response while she sipped at her tea. I chose not to say anything about my own engagement to Sidney, as I was sure Lady Denham would not approve. I did not want to give her a reason to go back on her agreement with Sidney. I would confide in Lady Susan during our shopping trip in the morning if she hadn't already figured it out on her own. A part of me wondered if even Lady Denham knew, although she'd never let on about it.
"I think I will head to bed," I said. "It's been a long and exhausting day. Goodnight."
I got up and headed to my room. A single tear fell from my eye as I thought about how I wished so badly I could tell the world of my own engagement like Alison was able to. How I wished our love was easy. I was very happy for my sister and looked forward to helping her plan her wedding, but it didn't stop the pain of wishing it was me in her shoes. I just had to continue to remind myself that it would be me in due time.
Shortly after I crawled under the sheets, Alison came into the room and prepared for bed also.
"Charlotte are you awake?" she asked from the other side of the bed. I rolled over to face her. "Does it hurt you that I'm getting married before you?"
"Of course not," I answered. "I'm very excited for you."
"Father tried to prevent Mr. Crowe and I from getting engaged until you married. Did you know that?" she asked.
"I didn't. Did Mr. Crowe tell you?" I wondered.
She nodded her head. "He said father didn't seem very fond of either of them at first and father said it was unfair to you if I married before you, so Mr. Crowe and I would have to wait. Mr. Parker had another conversation with him to change his mind."
"Sidney did that for you and Mr. Crowe?" I asked, surprised it hadn't been brought up in the carriage.
"He did. Whatever he said, he must have changed father's opinion of them."
"Yes, he must have," I said. I felt so much love for Sidney thinking on what he did for my sister and Mr. Crowe. He didn't have to do what he did, but he did anyway. He didn't have to do half the things he'd done for my benefit, but he had anyway.
"I'm looking forward to helping you plan your wedding," I said. "I was thinking on our way back today how you and Mr. Crowe are a perfect match. You've changed him for the better."
"I'd like to say we've changed each other," she said.
"I think that's what makes a great match," I said with a smile, thinking on mine and Sidney's relationship. We had both changed in ways to accommodate the other and be more for each other. I'd do anything for him, as I knew he would do the same for me.
We both dozed off rather quickly and didn't wake again until late morning. We dressed for the day and joined Lady Denham and our guests in the dining hall for breakfast. There was much talk about the ball in the evening.
"We should get going if we want to make it to the play this afternoon," Lady Susan announced.
"I'd like to stop in and see if Georgiana wants to join us, if you don't mind?" I asked.
"Of course. It's been a while since I've seen Miss Lambe and have only received a few letters from her. I have much to discuss with her," Lady Susan said, surprising me. I wasn't aware they were acquainted.
Alison and I followed Lady Susan out to the carriage while Lady Denham took her own carriage into town with the Prince Regent joining her. Apparently, she wanted to show him more of the town I had neglected to share.
"I wasn't aware you and Georgiana knew each other," I said, but meant more as a question.
"Georgiana and I became acquainted in London a while back. We shared a common interest and had a goal in mind," she responded.
"What sort of common interest? I wondered curiously.
"You, my dear," she answered with a giggle. "Did you ever wonder how Georgiana got to Willingden?"
I stared at her with a puzzled look. "You had something to do with that?"
"Of course, I did. Once I discovered the truth about Mrs. Campion, I set my plan into action. Things couldn't have ended up more to my liking, if I do say so myself," she said with a knowing grin.
"All of this was planned?"
"Not everything. I sent Georgiana in my carriage for Willingden to convince you to come back to Sanditon. Apparently, Lady Denham beat her to that task. Despite how you got here, you did return. However, Georgiana missing did send Mr. Parker looking for her and landed him right where we wanted."
"In Sanditon?" I asked.
She smiled and her eyes twinkled as she shook her head. "No, my dear. With you."
I was still so confused by all of it. Georgiana and Lady Susan had conspired to help Sidney and I end up together? How did I even begin to thank them?
"I had thought it would take a lot more convincing to get Sidney in Sanditon," Lady Susan continued. "I had placed the seed about Mrs. Campion and knew he'd go searching for Georgiana, but I assumed he would return to London still feeling like he had a duty to uphold. The fact that he remained in Sanditon, even after assuring Georgiana was safe, was all your doing."
"I was so rude to him when I first discovered he was in Sanditon. I was rude to him on many occasions."
"I guess that goes to show you just how much he loves you. He saw past all those moments and knew deep down you still had feelings for him," she pointed out.
"I don't even know what to say," I said breathlessly. "Should I thank you?"
"There's no reason to thank me. Your friendship and happiness are all the thanks I need."
I glanced over at Alison who had a knowing look on her face as if she knew all along what was happening. I would have to ask her about it later when we were alone. I wondered who else was in on this ploy to get us back together; Mr. Crowe, Lord and Lady Babington, perhaps even Mary? Despite everything, I was ever so thankful for everything everyone had done. Now if we could get through the last few obstacles, Sidney and I could be together for always.
I exited the carriage at Mrs. Griffiths and knocked on the door. Mrs. Griffiths let me in and spoke on how she hadn't seen Alison or I in so long and wondered if we were still in town.
"We've been quite busy lately. I've come to see if Georgiana would like to go shopping in town for the ball tonight with Alison and I as well as Lady Worcester?"
"Lady Worcester?" Mrs. Griffiths said nervously. "Is she outside?"
"She is," I answered.
"I must make her acquaintance." Mrs. Griffiths rushed for the door, leaving me alone in the front room. I laughed at her haste before making my way to Georgiana's room. I knocked before entering and heard Georgiana tell me to come in. She was sat at her desk writing when I walked in. I stood there a moment waiting for her to acknowledge me. When she finally turned around and stood up, I ran to her and crushed her with a hug.
"What is this about?" she asked hugging me back.
"I just want to thank you for what you did."
"What did I do, Charlotte?"
I pulled away and held her at arm's length looking at her affectionately. "You helped save Sidney and I from a disagreeable future. Lady Susan told me everything."
"Oh, yes that," she said with a smile. "I couldn't possibly stand by and watch Sidney marry that wretched Campion woman. As much as I dislike the man for my own reasons, he deserves to be happy as do you."
"I can't thank you enough. Everything has fallen into place and Sidney and I are better than ever. He even gained favor from my father."
"I'm happy for you," she said, but didn't look quite as happy as she had been recently.
"Are you alright?" I asked.
"I'm fine," she assured. "Was that the only reason you came?"
"No, actually," I said while studying her expressions and body language. Something was wrong. I could sense it. "I came to see if you'd like to go shopping for the day with us."
"Oh," she said. "I suppose I could. I didn't have anything else planned for the day."
"Georgiana, I hope you aren't upset with me and Alison. We would have come to see you more, but we were on a time crunch and had to work extra hard to get it all done."
"Yet you both made time to fall in love," she said, sounding hurt.
"It's not as if we were actively looking for love. Our main focus was finishing the building. Falling in love just sort of happened," I explained.
"Did Sidney put you up to this? Asking me to go shopping with you?" she wondered.
"Of course not!" I answered. "I had every intention of coming to see you today. Lady Susan and Alison are looking forward to seeing you as well. I'm sure the Prince Regent will be enthusiastic to make your acquaintance later today. We also have the play happening and the ball tonight. I want you to spend the entire day with us."
"I already said I'd come. You don't need to continue to convince me," she said.
"I just don't want you upset with me," I said.
"I'm not upset, Charlotte. I am happy for you. Truly I am. I'm only angry at Sidney."
"Whatever for?"
"He tells me I can write to Otis and then intercepts my letters, so he never receives them."
I laughed. "Sidney can't do such a thing?"
"Somehow he has. He must have. There's no other explanation. Otis wouldn't send my letters back."
"Perhaps I can do some digging and find out why they are coming back undeliverable. If Sidney knows anything, he will tell me. I'm sure of it."
She smiled accepting my offer. "Should we go? I'm dying to get out of this retched room."
We walked outside and met up with Lady Worcester and Alison who were being entertained by Mrs. Griffiths and now the Beaufort sisters.
"Ah, there's Charlotte and Georgiana," Lady Susan said. "Please excuse us, Mrs. Griffiths. I look forward to see all of you at the ball tonight." I curtsied towards Mrs. Griffiths and the Beaufort girls as I walked by them following behind Lady Susan and Alison with Georgiana on my arm.
"Shall we go to the dress shop first?" Lady Susan suggested. We followed behind her while people on the streets stared and occasionally bowed or curtsied in her direction. She acknowledged every person politely as we made our way down the street. When we reached the dress shop, it was overflowing with women getting last minute alterations, adding ribbons or feathers to their look or attempting to have an entire new look made in a matter of hours. It was quite hectic and busy in the shop, but we went in anyway and walked around looking at items on the shelves and looked through the new fabrics that had recently arrived. My eyes fell upon a delicate lace that reminded me of snowflakes. My fingers traced the design and admired the pattern. What I wouldn't give to have even a small piece of the lace worked into a gown.
"Miss Heywood," the familiar voice of Mrs. Campion sang from beside me.
My heart skipped a beat before speeding up and causing me to lose focus. I glanced up at her and my fingers dropped the lace. I took a deep breath, bidding myself not to let her get to me. "Mrs. Campion. Nice to see you again."
"Shopping for the ball?" she wondered.
"We are," I answered.
"I do hope you've already decided on a gown. Far too many women looking for last minute alterations in here," she said with a touch of snobbery.
"We have our gowns ready at home," I answered. "We are merely shopping for fun today."
"Home? I thought you were a guest of Lady Denham? Surely you don't consider that your home?" she laughed as did a couple women who stood behind her.
"Mrs. Campion, I wasn't expecting to see you here," Lady Susan said walking up behind me. I was grateful for her presence as Mrs. Campion had a way of making me feel small and insignificant.
"It's where all of London is for the Prince Regent's visit. Why wouldn't I be here?"
"Surely you don't expect to gain his favor?" Lady Susan laughed in the same condescending fashion Mrs. Campion had a moment ago.
"There's only one I wish to gain favor from," Mrs. Campion said. I was fully aware who she referred to.
"I'm afraid that's not possible. He's newly engaged," Lady Susan announced. My breath was caught in my throat as they spoke. Sidney and I hadn't discussed how or if we would tell Eliza about our engagement.
Mrs. Campion laughed again as if what Lady Susan said was preposterous. "You are mistaken. He can't be engaged to another when he's still engaged to me." She was right. Technically he was still engaged to her. He seemed certain that during his time away she'd find someone else to marry, but she was rather persistent in her pursuit of Sidney.
Lady Susan smirked at her but didn't respond. "Charlotte, this lace would be absolutely gorgeous on you. I should purchase the entire bolt."
Mrs. Campion laughed again and looked to the ladies she was with for them to laugh as well. "Lace for a farmer's daughter? How ridiculous. Don't you find it a little impractical?"
"You are mistaken. Lace fit for a bride," Lady Susan said. "Excuse us." Lady Susan held the bolt of fabric in her arms while she steered me away from Mrs. Campion.
"Thank you for your help with Mrs. Campion," I said. "I don't know what it is about her, but she intimidates me in a way I don't know how to overcome."
"You need to remember who won the race. You have more power than you think you do. She is more intimidated by you than you are of her. You must trust me on this," she said. I didn't know how Mrs. Campion could be intimidated by me. I had Sidney, yes, but she could have any man in the world with her beauty and elegance. Her money was an added bonus.
"You don't have to purchase the lace. She's right, it's not practical," I said.
"Nonsense. A wedding gown shouldn't be practical. A wedding gown should be extravagant. If I can help make you the most beautiful bride anyone has ever seen, I will," she said. "And I do expect to be invited to the wedding."
"How could I not?" I said with a giggle. "You have been so kind to me and done so much for Sanditon."
"You are the one who did everything. I was nothing more than a mere spectator."
Alison and Georgiana joined us and stared across the room towards Mrs. Campion.
"I've never even spoken to her, but I know I dislike her," Alison said.
"Don't we all, Alison," Lady Susan agreed.
"I do hope she doesn't cause a scene at the ball tonight," Georgiana said, shooting daggers with her eyes towards Mrs. Campion. "I won't hold back if she does."
The anxiety of yet another ball being a disaster crept up inside of me. I didn't want to attend the ball thinking on the drama it could ensue. Yet I knew I had no choice but to attend. I'd have to find a way to endure it.
I watched as Mrs. Campion left the shop and I let out a sigh of relief knowing she was gone. I stayed close to Lady Susan for the rest of the shopping trip. I did not want to run into Mrs. Campion again without someone close to me who knew how to deal with her. If she were a man, I could punch her in the nose like Sidney had taught me. But what would people say if I punched a woman?
We walked into a jewelry shop next and Georgiana eyed a pair of earrings with red stones surrounded by smaller stones.
"These are beautiful," she said admiringly.
"Should you get them?" I asked. "You could wear them to the ball tonight."
"I think I might," she said excitedly showing Alison who was in agreement that she should get them.
I walked over to Lady Susan who was looking at jeweled hair pieces. "See anything you like?" I asked.
"I have found the perfect adornment for you, my dear," Lady Susan said with a smile.
"For me?" I questioned curiously. "What do I need?"
Lady Susan turned around and held out a headband of pearls and stones that looked like flowers wrapped in gold wire to appear as branches. "We must get it for you," Lady Susan insisted.
"Lady Susan, it's too much. I don't need any of this. You already purchased the lace that's far too extravagant. I don't need anything more."
"My dear girl, I enjoy indulging you. Please allow me this small moment to make you the most beautiful woman at the ball tonight where every man in the room won't be able to keep their eyes off of you. Let's make Mrs. Campion jealous and perhaps see you as what you are."
"What am I?" I wondered with a small laugh.
"A strong and beautiful woman who shouldn't be intimidated by anyone. Especially not someone as trivial as Mrs. Campion." she said, placing the headband across my head and admiring it in the sunlight.
"I still don't feel like I deserve any of this," I said as Lady Susan went to pay for the headpiece.
"You'll just have to trust me."
Lady Susan also bought Alison a hair comb with pearls and small pink stones and a silver flower shaped barrette with white stones for Georgiana. She definitely had fun indulging us for the day and we were forever grateful for her kindness.
When our shopping trip was over, we walked down the path to the gazebo where a crowd of people had settled in waiting for the impromptu play to begin. I saw Sidney and Tom talking to some of the actors near the gazebo. I wanted to walk over to Sidney and make my presence known, but I also knew he was busy, and I didn't want to distract him. I saw Mary standing nearby with Diana and Arthur, so I went over to greet them.
"Charlotte!" Mary said giving me a welcoming hug. "It's been days since we last saw you."
"I plan to remedy that. Now with the buildings nearly done and everything falling into place, there's more time for me to visit with you and everyone else here in Sanditon."
"Do you plan to stay with Lady Denham?" she asked.
"For now. We haven't been on the greatest of terms, but at the moment she's being tolerable."
"Well, remember you always have a place with us if you ever need it."
"Thank you, Mary."
"Sidney came by this morning to talk to Tom. It's been days since we've seen him. He mentioned he attended your brother's wedding yesterday. Should I assume you two have worked things out?"
I smiled and ducked my head so I didn't show too much enthusiasm. "We have. As soon as he returns from Antigua we will be married."
"What wonderful news," she cheered. "I always had a sense you would be the one to turn Sidney around."
"Did you?" I laughed. "What gave you that idea?"
"The way you admired his portrait in our home on many occasions. I caught you looking at it many times. I could tell there was an interest there." Had I stared at his portrait a little more than I should have? Thinking back on it, I probably had.
"You remember Lady Worcester," I introduced as she walked over to us with Georgiana and Alison.
"Of course. Nice to see you again, Lady Worcester." Mary curtsied as did Diana. Arthur stood there awkwardly with a huge grin on his face.
"How do you like Sanditon?" Arthur asked.
"It's quite a delight to be back here. I'm looking forward to the ball this evening."
"We are as well," Diana added. "It's going to be the party of the century."
"Has the Prince Regent arrived yet?" Mary wondered.
"He should be here soon," Lady Worcester said looking around the crowd to search for him. "He was with Lady Denham earlier."
"Isn't that Lady Denham's carriage coming into the yard?" Arthur asked noticing the carriage.
"It is," Lady Susan agreed. "Excuse me." She walked over to the carriage and met with the Prince Regent and Lady Denham. I watched as they were escorted to the front of the crowd and sat in chairs placed out just for them where Lord and Lady Babington were already sitting. Crowe caught glance of Alison and came over to greet her and stand near her during the show.
"There are so many people here I've never seen before," I observed.
"It's wonderful for Sanditon, isn't it?" Mary said.
"Indeed, it is. It's like a miracle."
Alison shushed us. "It's about to start."
Tom and Sidney took their place on the stage in front of everyone. Tom raised his hands to get everyone's attention and quiet the crowd. In true Tom fashion, he stepped forward to make the introduction and take the credit for something he didn't do, while in true Sidney fashion, he stepped aside and allowed his brother all the glory.
"It's my great honor to welcome our Prince Regent to Sanditon," he began. "To show our appreciation for your visit, we have commissioned some actors to put on a little show for your enjoyment. In due time, Sanditon will have its own playhouse for many seasons to come. Please, enjoy the show!" Everyone clapped and cheered as the actors took their places. I saw Mrs. Campion standing on the other side of the yard with her group of friends looking elegant and proper among society. She was everything I was not.
While I paid more attention to her instead of the show, I felt Sidney come up close behind me and slip his familiar hand in mine ever so discreetly. I squeezed his hand and felt more at ease having him near. He leaned into my ear. "I've missed you," he whispered. I smiled at his simple words and let out a sigh of relief. I needed to remind myself of what Lady Susan said. He chose me, not her. He didn't want the elegant and proper lady of society who paraded him around on a tight leash like a new puppy. He wanted the country girl who was too opinionated and too headstrong who wanted nothing more than for him to be his truest and happiest self. He gave up everything for me, not her. I shouldn't be intimidated by her. I let my attention focus on the show rather than Mrs. Campion and ease into my position at Sidney's side.
After the short comedy show the actors put on, there was a woman who took the stage and sang a beautiful operatic rendition. Once she was done, some of the local children, including Jenny and Alicia, took the stage and sang a couple simple songs that everyone enjoyed. At the end, everyone cheered and clapped looking as if they enjoyed the show. Tom stepped back up on the stage at the end thanking everyone for coming and thanking the actors and singers for a job well done. The Prince Regent and Lady Susan both stood at the end to clap. Afterwards, people began to break up into smaller groups and conversate.
"Well, Sidney," I said turning to face him. He had a grin on his face before I even said anything more. "It appears your show was a huge success."
He nodded his head before tilting his head to one side and smiling. "Yes, it appears it was. I'm quite thankful I have a true visionary to give me such wonderful ideas."
I smiled and tilted my head to match his while staring up at him. "True Visionary, you say? I don't believe I gave you the idea. If I remember correctly you stole the idea."
He chuckled. "Perhaps I did. Forgive me."
I stepped a little closer to him before speaking again. "I believe true vision comes from working together to make our ideas come to fruition." We looked into each other's eyes longing to kiss and be free to touch one another in public.
"Miss Heywood," someone called from behind me, interrupting our moment. I turned around to see who I needed to curse.
"Mr. and Mrs. Stringer," I greeted politely, wishing they hadn't interrupted us. They walked towards us arm in arm. Sidney moved to stand beside me and join in the conversation. Sidney and Mr. Stringer shook hands greeting each other politely. I could tell he was just as upset as I was that someone had interrupted us.
"I enjoyed the show immensely. I must say, this entire trip to Sanditon has been very enlightening. I may never leave," Mrs. Stringer said.
"I'm happy to hear it," I said. "I feel the same as you. Once you come to Sanditon, it's hard to leave."
"Indeed, it is. I'm looking forward to the ball tonight," she said. "I've never attended a ball with my husband. I'm told he knows how to dance," she teased. She glanced at him causing him to smile and look away bashfully.
"I can attest, he is quite a good dancer. I've had the pleasure of dancing with him at a past ball here in Sanditon."
"I'm glad to hear it," she said. "Could I tempt you with an afternoon of tea next week? I'd love to spend more time discussing what we had discussed the other day."
"I'd be delighted." She curtsied and excused them from us to visit with others.
"What were you discussing the other day with Mrs. Stringer?" Sidney wondered once we were alone again.
"Architecture and a woman's place in society," I answered. "She's quite intrigued by what I've accomplished here in Sanditon when I shouldn't have."
"Why shouldn't you have accomplished anything?" he wondered.
"I'm a woman, Sidney. It's not proper for me to be working at the building site with the men or be in any sort of authority position with them."
"Yet you did," he reminded.
"Thanks to you. If you hadn't paid the men to listen to me, I wouldn't have any say on anything."
He smirked and shook his head a few times. "You underestimate yourself."
"How so?"
"I may have had to pay the men to listen to you at first. By the end, all those men respected and admired you because of your abilities, not because they were being paid," he said. I looked up at him with confusion. I hadn't thought of it that way before. "Charlotte, everyone in this town admires you. I'm not sure why you don't see it. No one quite as much as me, though."
"Charlotte!" Lady Denham called from across the yard. I groaned and rolled my eyes before excusing myself from Sidney and walking over to Lady Denham. She had Georgiana and Alison cornered as well. "I'd like you girls to meet Lord Moreland and his sons." We were paraded in front of a group of men by Lady Denham. Lord Moreland was an older man who had far too many wrinkles across his face. I wondered if there was a Lady Moreland somewhere or if Lord Moreland was a widow. His sons looked as if they were still in their prime, perhaps late and early twenties. I never did ask Lady Denham much about them, as I simply didn't care. The three of us curtsied in front of them politely while Lady Denham introduced each one of us. "Forgive me, I may have forgotten all of your names already," Lady Denham laughed at her poor memory.
Lord Moreland stepped forward to introduce his sons. "My eldest son, Isaac." Isaac was tall with dark hair and dark eyes. He seemed guarded and far too proper with his bow towards us. He reminded me much of Sidney. "Next in line is Benjamin." Benjamin reminded me of Arthur. A little on the shorter and rounder side, full of life with his happy grin plastered on his face, copper colored hair with green eyes. He seemed to be the odd one out against his brothers who all shared the tall, dark hair and dark eyes. "Thomas is my middle son." Thomas seemed like the lady's man. He stepped forward and kissed each of our hands while speaking a French line in an attempt to woo us. "My second to youngest is Andrew." Andrew was quiet. He seemed like the shy one who felt uncomfortable in his own skin. I felt sorry for him and thought about what I could do to make him feel more at ease. "My youngest is Frederick." I observed Frederick the longest. He seemed indifferent to being here. Almost as if he found the entire event boring. He did seem young, so perhaps his mood was due to his age. He reminded me of Georgiana, who at times seemed full of life and other times was moody and sad. Perhaps he had a similar personality.
"It's a pleasure to meet all of you," I greeted. "Will you be staying in Sanditon long?"
"Only through the Prince Regent's visit. Unless, of course, my sons find a reason to stay longer," Lord Moreland explained. It wasn't hard to figure out what Lord Moreland was looking for. He was hoping his sons would find potential wives.
"Mrs. Griffiths has two charges we should introduce you to tonight at the ball," Georgiana offered. I had to stifle a giggle. Alison struggled more than I did. Perhaps one or two of these men would enjoy the company of the Beaufort sisters. It was always possible.
"Are you referring to those silly Beaufort sisters?" Lady Denham asked sounding repulsed.
"I am, Lady Denham," Georgiana answered smugly. "They would be wonderful company for the Moreland men." Alison snickered again causing me to let a small giggle out.
"Forgive us," I said trying to compose myself. "We are still reeling from the play. I'm sure we will see all of you tonight at the ball. Excuse us."
The three of us walked away and when we were far enough away, we all started to laugh. "They seemed rather pretentious," Georgiana said.
"They all seem rather different," I said. "I'm sure later tonight we will have a chance to get to know them better."
"Do we have to?" Alison complained.
"We must be polite and dance with anyone who asks, even if we are engaged," I reminded.
"I don't care about what's proper or expected of me. If I don't wish to dance with someone, I will tell them," Georgiana informed with great force in her voice. Her words didn't surprise me.
"Should we return to the house to dress?" I asked. Georgiana groaned, but agreed we should return. We found Lady Susan and made our way back to Mrs. Griffiths to see Georgiana back before returning to Sanditon House. The ball was going to be a huge success, despite who was in attendance. I wasn't going to let anything or anyone ruin the night this time.