~Sidney~

I was not expecting what happened at the end of the ball. Eliza had been so persistent about our engagement even after I told her I never wished to marry her. While Charlotte was dancing with one of the Moreland men, Eliza cornered me alone this time. I was beyond irritated with her as I was keeping a close eye on Charlotte. These Moreland men had not proven themselves trustworthy yet. Even though Charlotte insisted she could handle men like the earlier Morland man, I wasn't going to stand back and watch.

Eliza had a sadness about her when I begrudgingly let my focus from Charlotte falter. "Are you truly done with me?" she asked through a quivering voice.

I sighed. "Eliza, I don't wish to hurt you, but we are not good together. We should have known this wouldn't work after what happened when we were kids. We weren't right then and we aren't right now."

A tear fell from her eye. "I don't want to be alone," she cried. "That horrible Lady Worcester has turned all of society against me because of what my late husband and I did. I have no one."

"I can't be certain, Eliza, but I do believe Lady Worcester turned people against you to help Charlotte."

She looked at me with disbelief. "You can't be serious. Why on earth would she do such a thing just to help a farm girl?"

"Lady Worcester adores Charlotte, as do most people. She wants the best for Charlotte."

"And she believes you are what's best for her? You admitted to being a poor man with nothing to offer her. She clearly doesn't have anything to offer the marriage. Why would someone as influential as Lady Worcester want that for someone she supposedly cares for?" she wondered.

"Perhaps it's more about our affection for each other that intrigues Lady Worcester rather than our fortunes. Charlotte and I will be perfectly happy despite what our financial situations are," I explained. "We've made it this far; we can make it through anything."

"And what about Charlotte's family? Are they going to accept you being her husband when you have nothing to offer her?" she wondered.

"They are already have," I admitted causing her to look at me with bulging eyes. "Charlotte's family doesn't come from wealth. They value relationships and love above all else. I went and visited the Heywood family a few days ago and they've accepted me."

She dropped her head and another tear fell from her eye before she took a deep breath and looked at me determinedly. "There really is no changing your mind, is there?"

"I'm afraid not. I apologize for putting you through this. I hope you can forgive me. I wish things were different and we never had to find ourselves in this position in the first place. But I love Charlotte and that's not going change. You speak of not wanting to be alone, but if you were to marry me, you'd be even more alone. I wouldn't stay with you. I'd be here, loving Charlotte from afar if that's all I had. I have no wish to be your property who you parade around in society. That's not me."

"Very well," she said willing a smile across her face. "I'll release you from the engagement on one condition."

I was taken aback by her announcement. "You're releasing me?"

"I just need you to help me earn favor with Lady Worcester again."

I sighed, knowing it might not be as easy as what she asks. "I will do my best, but I can't make any promises. Perhaps it would be best for you to talk to her yourself and try to work out your differences."

She nodded her head and sighed. "I think you are making a huge mistake, Sidney," she said.

I stifled a laugh and grinned. "I thought the same thing about your choice ten years ago. But it was your choice to choose fortune. It's my choice to choose love. I do wish you every happiness. I hope you know I'll always care about your wellbeing. I hope you can find whatever it is that you need to make you happy."

She sighed and stared at me a moment longer as if she was waiting for me to change my mind. "I suppose it's done, then."

I bowed towards her and left her to find Charlotte. I was in complete disbelief as I searched the room. I was trying to wrap my head around what happened and will myself to believe it. Do I just come out and tell Charlotte she released me? Do I wait until we are alone? Would Lady Denham find a new way to stop us from getting married? So many thoughts were running through my head, but the only thing I could truly focus on was Charlotte still dancing with Mr. Moreland and smiling and laughing like she was enjoying herself. I didn't care for the way he looked at her or the way she looked at him. What were they talking about and laughing so happily about?

I watched for a long time and even still after they left the dance floor and continued to speak. There was an anger inside of me I'd never felt before. It was different with Mr. Fritz or even the other Moreland brother, because I knew Charlotte was uncomfortable and my only instinct was to protect her. This was different. She wasn't uncomfortable. She was too comfortable. I didn't like it. I decided in that moment I didn't care what anyone else in the room thought or said afterwards; not even Lady Denham. I was going to dance with Charlotte a third time and make it known to everyone she was spoken for. She chose me.

I walked over to her and asked her to dance again. She was so hesitant and nervous to do so, which only made me more upset. Did she not wish everyone to know we were engaged? She accused me of only dancing a third time because I was jealous. She certainly was right, which I knew I needed to work on, but I still wanted to dance with her. I wanted to hold her in my arms and know we were closer to making our future together a reality and no one was going to stand in our way.

I pulled her into my arms and was thrilled with the sensation of her body pressed against mine. She did things to me I'd never experienced before. It wasn't even a sexual thrill, which I definitely did feel, but it was more an emotional fulfillment. She made me whole. She made me excited for what was to come. She made me happy. As we spun around the floor, our eyes connected and there was no longer any doubt about her feelings for me. She was mine and I was hers. No other man or even woman would ever come between us. We were whole together. At the end of the dance, I refused to let her go. I held her in my arms and longed to kiss her like we did on the bridge in Willingden, but I knew I couldn't. Just holding her longer than I should was threatening her reputation. But I had to tell her. She had to know Mrs. Campion had released me. Charlotte was shocked when I told her, almost not believing me. We finally left the dance floor to plenty of curious eyes watching us. As the next dance started, I walked her outside where a makeshift area had been set up to allow more space for guests. Even though there were still plenty of people around, it wasn't quite as crowded as it was inside and much easier for us to talk.

"What do you mean she released you?" Charlotte asked.

I grinned and took her hands in mine. "She's given me my freedom with the expectation I speak to Lady Worcester to redeem her reputation in society. It's all she truly cares about," I explained.

"We must speak to Lady Susan at once, then," she said. She tried to walk away, but I pulled her back.

"Wait!" I said, pulling her arm back and stopping her. "Tell me about this other Moreland brother. You seemed to enjoy his company more so than the other brother."

She raised her eyebrow and gave me a dubious look. "Isaac Moreland is far different than Thomas Moreland. He reminds me much of you. We had a pleasant conversation and tomorrow I plan to give him a tour of Sanditon."

I nodded my head and furrowed my brow. "A tour of Sanditon, you say?"

She smiled up at me with that knowing expression. "No need for concern, Sidney. He's looking for a bride and interested in Sanditon, but he knew from the moment we danced the first dance I was yours."

"Did he?" I asked, pulling her closer.

"I'm fairly certain every person here tonight knows. It's rather hard to deny now."

"Very good point," I said with a grin on my face. I pulled her even closer daring to kiss her. If everyone knew already would it truly be improper to steal a kiss?

"I'm slightly concerned how Lady Denham is going to react. Do you think she will forgive you?" she wondered.

"I would hope so, but I honestly don't care at the moment."

"Perhaps if I make a good impression on Isaac Moreland tomorrow, he will convince his father to invest," she considered.

"Or perhaps she will convince Lord Moreland herself with her charm," I said with a chuckle. She giggled and nodded her head in agreement.

We were interrupted by the person we were just speaking of. "Charlotte," Lady Denham called. "It's time to go."

I sighed heavily and looked deep in Charlotte's eyes begging her to stay with me. Hoping she'd want to and tell Lady Denham no." Charlotte was too proper and good to do such a thing, though. She let go of my hands and walked past me, leaving me feeling empty and alone.

I left the ball having far too many emotions running through me. Something I hadn't been accustomed to in many years. I'd blocked most emotions for so many years that now as they came to the surface, it was overwhelming, but welcome all the same.

The next day, Crowe and I joined in at the church service knowing we would see Charlotte and Alison even if just briefly. We sat towards the back and half-heartedly listened to what Mr. Hankins was saying. I watched Charlotte and kept my focus on her as she sat next to Lady Worcester and Alison. I could sense the distance between her and Lady Denham even from afar. At the end of the service, Mr. Hankins made announcements about himself and Mrs. Griffiths being engaged, which didn't come with any shock. He also spoke of Alison and Crowe being engaged, which made Crowe sit up in his seat and show some sense of propriety. I sensed he fell asleep halfway through the service. What did surprise me was hearing Clara Brereton engaged to one of the Moreland men. I glanced in her direction only for a moment, before focusing my attention back on Charlotte. Even though everyone in the room turned to look at Clara and then the Moreland man she was engaged to, Charlotte and Alison kept their eyes forward just like Lady Denham. I sensed Lady Denham was not happy about Clara being back in town, perhaps equally upset that she had engaged herself to one of the Moreland men when she had her eyes on them for Charlotte.

After the service, Crowe and I waited outside to have the briefest of moments with Charlotte and Alison, but they were both far too busy with the Prince Regent and Lady Worcester to give us more than a passing smile. I wished for more, but I knew she was busy trying to be a good host. I didn't want to interrupt her for my own selfish needs.

After speaking with Lady Worcester for a moment about Mrs. Campion, she and the Prince Regent left for a carriage ride along the shoreline. Even though I saw my brothers and family at church, I didn't have a chance to talk to them, so I headed into town to see Tom. He had expressed his interest in some new development ideas at the ball, which made me nervous. I wanted to be sure he wasn't getting himself dug even deeper in debt. I had come to the conclusion I would need to oversee everything Tom decided to do. I walked into the house and found Mary and Diana sitting at the table having tea.

"Sidney! What a pleasant surprise," Mary greeted standing from her seat and giving me a hug.

"I've come to speak to Tom. Is he around?" I asked.

"I'm afraid not. He said he had some business to attend to as soon as we returned from church, but he didn't give me much information on what that business was. Arthur is with him, though."

I groaned and sat down at the table with them to pour myself a cup of tea. "We will need to keep him in check, Mary. I don't want him doing again what he did before. I can't bail him out a second time."

"I know, Sidney. Believe me, I do try to keep him in line. He doesn't listen to reason very well. He's so determined to do good by us all."

"He'd do good by us if he stopped trying so hard," Diana added.

"It's impossible to get him to stop," I added with a heavy sigh.

"Regrettably, I think it's going to take a great deal of support from all of us," Mary said.

"I'll be leaving for Antigua soon. I'm counting on all of you to keep him at bay. I'm also asking for both of you especially, to keep a close eye on Charlotte. It's unbearable to have to leave her. I'm not even sure I can bring myself to go through with it. I'm sure she's going to need some comfort with friends and family."

"Of course, Sidney," Mary assured. "Charlotte will be in good hands."

While I sipped at the cup of tea, I noticed that awful portrait of me was taken off the wall and leaning against a table. Perhaps Mary was finally planning to burn it. I always hated that thing Tom insisted on hanging in his front room. In our younger years, Tom had decided he was going to be a painter. One of many career paths he pursued. He got all the supplies and started painting anything placed in front of him. Being the younger brother who always wanted to please him, I sat for a painting. I remembered telling him to make me look older as I was just a kid at the time. When he was done, I winced at what he had created. I didn't think it looked anything like me and it still didn't to this day, but he was so proud of it and insisted on hanging it up wherever he was. Thankfully he grew out of the painting career path, but I wasn't so sure he did much better with his current career path either. "Finally getting rid of that old thing?" I asked motioning towards the painting.

Mary glanced over her shoulder to see what I was referring to. She giggled. "I've decided to give it to Charlotte. She's admired that painting from the moment she walked into our home. I thought it might help with the separation if she had something to remind her of you."

I rolled my eyes. "You couldn't think of anything better?"

"Sidney!" she scolded.

"I think it's rather sweet. I'm sure Charlotte will treasure it," Diana said with a smile.

"It's not exactly what I had in mind to leave her with," I groaned.

"What were you considering?" Mary asked.

The corner of my lip rose with a half-smile as I thought on it. "I don't care to indulge at the moment."

"I did notice she was wearing mother's necklace last night and again today at church," Diana pointed out. "I assume she appreciated the gift."

I smiled before taking another drink, thinking on when I gave it to her and how happy it made her. Even how happy it made me to see her wearing it. "She did."

"I have a good idea what you plan to give her as a going away gift," Diana divulged with a grin before taking a sip of her tea. I'm sure she knew exactly what I had planned, but I still wasn't going to reveal.

"You do plan to spend Michaelmas with us tomorrow?" Mary asked, changing the subject.

"I'll make an appearance, yes," I answered. "Perhaps Tom will be around then, and I can speak to him before I leave."

"When do you plan to leave?" Mary asked sounding sad.

"The morning after Michaelmas," I answered. "I want to be sure I get left before the weather gets bad. I also have some business to attend to in London before I board a ship."

"It seems like such a horrible time to leave. Couldn't you wait until the spring or even summer of next year?" Mary asked.

"I'd rather get left as soon as possible. The sooner I leave, the sooner I can come back."

"What about everything you're going to miss?" Diana said. "Mr. Crowe and Alison Heywood's wedding, Lord and Lady Babington's child coming into the world. Weren't you to be a godparent? Shouldn't you stay for those moments?"

"If I stay for every event I'm bound to miss, I'll never leave only delaying my own happiness with Charlotte. I'd rather leave now. I'm certain everyone will manage without me. I have every faith Charlotte will take care of everyone," I said.

Mary placed her hand on mine giving it a warm squeeze. "And we will take care of her," she assured. I gave her a smile and nodded my head thanking her silently. She, more than anyone else, probably understood what a separation after finally coming together would do to us. I just prayed Charlotte waited for me even if Lady Denham didn't want her to.

~Charlotte~

Lady Denham was not happy with my scandalous behavior at the ball. All the way back to Sanditon House she reprimanded me for my disgraceful show of affection towards a man right there in front of everyone. What she really meant was my shocking show of affection towards Sidney in front of the Moreland men. I simply didn't care. I only danced with two of the men and only one of them I wished to ever see again. But I felt comfort in knowing Isaac Moreland accepted my engagement to Sidney and didn't seem bothered by it. He was not pursuing me, like Lady Denham hoped he would. I could see us being friends, but nothing more.

"Lady Denham, I know you don't think too highly of the Parker family right now, but my feelings for Sidney aren't going to disappear just because you bring another man around," I said. "Sidney and I plan to wed as soon as he gets back from Antigua. I plan to wait for him, not because he asked, but because I wish to do so. I love him and he loves me. I know two people being in love might seem like a foreign concept, but there it is. I wish you would accept it. We will do what's necessary to be together. Nothing will stand in our way, not even you." I stared at her from across the carriage fully expecting to be scolded for my behavior. Instead her lips raised in a smile as if she enjoyed seeing me get angry.

"Well spoken," she said softly, but cynically. "Declaring your love like somehow that's all you need to get through anything. Could you be anymore naïve, Charlotte? That man has already broken your heart more times than I can count. Why would you put yourself in that position for more heartache? You remind me so much of my younger self. I was a naïve girl once too and hung on every word a man spoke of love and of us being together. Even after he chose another and ran off to marry her, I still clung to hope we would be reunited."

"I think you are mistaken on who you are reminded of in your younger years. Your story resembles Sidney's more than mine. Perhaps you should think on that more, rather than constantly trying to paint him as something he's not."

When we pulled in front of the house, I stepped out before the footman was available and ran into the house trying to hold back my tears. Lady Susan had said she believed Lady Denham would come around. I didn't think that was ever going to be possible. Lady Denham was the most stubborn and outspoken woman I'd ever met. At times I admired her boldness, but other times she only infuriated me.

I laid in bed wide awake thinking on how amazing the ball was and reliving the dance Sidney and I shared at the end of the night. The dance we had in London after rescuing Georgiana was a pivotal moment in our relationship. I felt truly in love with him for the first time during that dance. This dance was far more magical. This dance was declaring ourselves to each other in front of everyone. In my eyes we were married, even if the legalities hadn't taken place yet.

I'd decided in the early hours of the morning that after Lady Susan and the Prince Regent left, I was going to request to stay with Mary and Tom. I knew they already had a full house with Diana and Arthur now staying with them, but I had to find some independence from Lady Denham. Deep down I knew she meant well, but she was becoming quite smothering. I had a better understanding of Clara and why she was desperate to find a better path in life. I believe she went about it the wrong way, but I had witnessed many times where Lady Denham was quite overbearing towards Clara. She just wanted out but felt powerless to do so.

I thought on Clara quite a bit during the night. I saw her at the ball, but she didn't seem to want her presence known to Lady Denham with good reason. She probably would have been escorted out immediately. Why she was at the ball, truly confused me. Was she merely there to meet the Prince Regent or did she have another reason for her visit?

I only got a few hours of sleep before I was awoken by Alison to get ready for church. I told Alison of my plans to leave Sanditon House after Lady Susan left. She didn't seem surprised by my decision. As much as she didn't want to be parted from me, she felt like it would too much for the Parker family to take in both of us. She decided she would stay with Lady Denham until she married Mr. Crowe. I respected her decision and we promised each other to spend every day together until she was wed.

During church I sat next to Alison and Lady Susan as Mr. Hankins gave a sermon about marriage. Lady Denham sat on the other side of Alison. We had not spoken a word to each other since the carriage ride home. I didn't wish to speak to her if all she was going to do is continue to say such hurtful things about Sidney.

At the end of Mr. Hankins sermon, he spoke about the ball and of so many new engagements in town. Not only about Alison and Mr. Crowe, but also himself and Mrs. Griffiths, which wasn't much a surprise. Another engagement truly did surprise me as I had been thinking about her during the night. Clara Brereton was engaged to Andrew Moreland. I wondered if they had met before and perhaps that was why she was in Sanditon. Or perhaps they barely met at the ball and decided already to marry. I truly hoped Andrew Moreland was more like Isaac Moreland and not like Thomas Moreland. I glanced at Lady Denham when Clara was brought up. She kept a stone-cold expression not showing happiness or detest with the news. I wondered if there was still animosity there, but Lady Denham never let on.

After church, we were whisked away back to Sanditon House by Lady Denham while the Prince Regent and Lady Susan decided to take a private carriage ride along the shore. We walked into the drawing room and were taken back by who stood in the room. Edward Denham, looking dapper as always, stood in front of the fireplace waiting for us.

"What is the meaning of this?" Lady Denham shouted. "Who let you into my home?"

"Aunt, hear me out," he pleaded, rushing across the floor towards her. "I'm not here to cause a scene. I only wish to speak to you."

"What could you possibly need to speak to me about?" she asked. "I want you off my property at an instant."

A woman who no one noticed before stood from a chair, her back facing all of us. She turned around and that feeling of dread came rushing over me. I should have known it wasn't going to be so easy. Mrs. Campion faced us with a conniving grin across her face. "Lady Denham, so nice to see you again," she said, sounding more cunning than usual. "Miss Heywood." She greeted me with such sarcasm in her tone. I knew something terrible was afoot.

"Aunt, you remember Mrs. Campion," Edward said, introducing the two who really only knew of each other in passing. "Well, there's no reason to beat around the bush. Mrs. Campion and I are engaged."

I gasped in disbelief and nearly stumbled from what he said.

"Engaged?" Lady Denham shouted. "Were you not engaged to Mr. Parker until last night? You move fast don't you, dear?" Lady Denham laughed as if mocking her.

"Truth is, Mrs. Campion and I have spent a great deal of time together in London these last few weeks. She came here last night to break things off with Mr. Parker."

"I have come to enjoy the town of Sanditon and wish to do what I can to better the place," Mrs. Campion declared. I took notice that she never said she enjoyed Edward Denham. After what she said about love being a myth, I wondered if she actually cared for Edward at all. Would it be wrong of me to warn Edward? Or would it be wiser to warn Eliza of Edward's past?

Alison and I listened as Edward and Eliza continued to spin their plans for Sanditon's development. At first Lady Denham seemed indifferent to what they were saying, but as time went on, she seemed intrigued and wanted to know more of their plans. Eliza had money after all and was willing to spend it on the development of Sanditon. I suppose I should be happy about her involvement if it means good things for Sanditon.

"The first thing we plan to build is a donkey steed in your honor, Aunt," Edward said. "We would love to show you where it will be erected if you're interested in an afternoon with us."

"I'd be delighted to hear more," she said.

"A Mr. Moreland here to see Miss Heywood," a butler announced.

Alison and I stood as Mr. Isaac Moreland walked into the room, removing his hat and bowing towards all of us.

"Mr. Moreland, how wonderful to see you again," Lady Denham greeted.

"And you, Lady Denham. I came to see if Miss Heywood is still interested in showing me around the town?" he asked.

"I almost forgot," I said feeling horrible for forgetting. "Of course."

"It appears we are all leaving," Lady Denham announced heading towards the door while the rest of us followed her out. Eliza stood by the door waiting for me to come out even though Edward and Lady Denham were already boarding their carriage.

"Is Sidney not enough for you, Miss Heywood?" Eliza asked as I walked past her.

I gave her a confused expression. "I don't understand your meaning."

"You have one man pining over you while you court another," she explained.

I laughed. "I assure you, I'm not courting any other man. Mr. Moreland is strictly interested in Sanditon as it appears you are as well. Although your newfound engagement to Edward Denham does raise a few eyebrows. Scraping the bottom of the barrel, perhaps?" I stepped past her and guided Alison with me to Mr. Moreland's carriage. The more times I came in contact with Eliza Campion, the more I despised her. I tried to be kind, tried to give her the benefit of the doubt, but no matter what I did, she found fault. I even stepped aside on two occasions so she could have Sidney. It wasn't my fault he didn't want to stay with her.

Mr. Moreland politely offered his hand to help both Alison and I inside the carriage before he joined us. We rode towards town while Edward and Eliza headed off in another direction with Lady Denham. I pointed out the bathing machines stored away on the beach when we went down on the beach and explained their purpose. We rode through town and Alison and I pointed out all the shops and buildings along the way. When we got to the Terrace, we left the carriage and walked around. Some of the houses had been taken up but a few still remained empty so we could go inside and look around before heading back to the carriage and back down by the beach.

"Correct me if I'm wrong, Miss Heywood," he began. "The buildings caught fire recently and Lady Denham called you in to come rebuild them, correct?"

"I suppose so," I answered. "I think she had a different agenda than what she originally invited me here for that I wasn't made aware of until we arrived."

"Why exactly did she ask for you?" he wondered.

"I have asked myself that same question. Perhaps it was because I worked closely with Tom when he was in charge. Or it could just be that she felt the rebuild needed a woman's touch. I truly don't know. But I enjoyed the work and I'm forever grateful for all the men and women who poured their heart and soul into helping with the rebuild. Now if Sanditon is successful as a sea bathing community, we can continue to build further and make it even bigger and better than it is now."

"Seems to me Sanditon has a lot to offer," he said. "But I must ask, what does one gain from the success of Sanditon becoming a great sea bathing resort?"

"A great climate, a comfortable and welcoming community, new friendships and relationships to last a lifetime," I answered.

"I'm sure Lady Denham and even the Parker family who all invested in the development will gain monetarily for Sanditon's success?" he wondered.

"I would think so. Why else invest if it's not fruitful?"

He looked out on the horizon as if he was thinking hard. "You've done a great deal of work to develop the town. Do you gain anything? Or are you being taken advantage of by the Parker family and very likely Lady Denham?"

I was shocked by his question. It wasn't what I was expecting from him. "I don't wish to gain anything. I'm only doing what I can to better the place for everyone else."

"Surely you have to gain something. Why else do what you've done?" he wondered.

"If you're asking if I'm getting any monetary compensation, I don't wish to make money off of Sanditon. I wish for Sanditon to be enjoyed by everyone. What I gained is far more precious than money."

"And what was that?" he asked curiously.

"Love. I fell in love with Sidney here in Sanditon. I believe it's what happens when one visits Sanditon. They first fall in love with its charm and beauty and it opens up their heart to find love where they least expect it. It happened to me, to Alison here, to Esther, I would say even Clara Brereton. You could even argue that the same thing happened to the men. Unlike you and your brothers, Mr. Parker, Mr. Crowe, and Lord Babington did not come to Sanditon looking for love. They weren't even looking for brides. They were looking for entertainment, but they found something else entirely."

"What an interesting concept. If you sold Sanditon as a place to find love, you'd have flocks of people lining up."

I half smiled at his comment. I was still bothered by his questions. Alison could tell since she pulled my hand into her lap to squeeze my hand. I never felt like I was being taken advantage of. My goal for Sanditon had nothing to do with money. I just wanted Sanditon to be prosperous for all the people who put so much into it.

We pulled up in front of Sanditon House and Mr. Moreland didn't move to get out. He stared at the ground as if deep in thought. "Miss Heywood, I hope I didn't offend you by my questions. I'm truly curious about the town and community of Sanditon and wondering what I could do to make it a better place. Everyone talks so highly of Sanditon and now that the Prince Regent, himself, has visited, it makes me curious what all it has to offer. You seem to be the most knowledgeable of its charm."

"I only speak from my heart. Sanditon is a wonderful place. I consider it my home now."

"I do too," Alison agreed, speaking for the first time all afternoon. "I usually let Charlotte handle all the promotional stuff about Sanditon. I have truly fallen in love with the place and Mr. Crowe has decided to stay. We plan to buy a home and remain here."

I turned towards her with my mouth hanging open. "You never told me," I said.

"We discussed it last night at the ball. He wanted to know what I thought of the idea and of course I told him I would love to stay. He's planning to sell his estate outside of London and find something suitable for us here. If he sells his estate, he plans to help Sidney out with the debt as well."

I hugged her and wanted to cry from hearing her words. "What wonderful news."

Mr. Moreland exited the carriage and waited for me and Alison to wish to get out. "I want to thank you for your kindness in showing me around Sanditon and giving me some history of the town. It was very enlightening."

I curtsied. "Thank you for allowing me to give you a tour."

Alison and I started to walk towards the door, but then I remembered something I wished to ask him. I left Alison's side and walked back towards Mr. Moreland who was just about to get back in the carriage.

"Mr. Moreland," I called out. He stopped and turned back around with a questioning expression. "I'm curious about the engagement between your brother Andrew and Clara Brereton. Is this a new development or have they known each other long?" He smirked and turned his head to one side like he was questioning my intent. "I know it's none of my concern. I'm just curious. Clara and I were close at one time before she plotted with Edward Denham to take advantage of Lady Denham. Your brother Andrew seems rather shy and reserved. I would hope she isn't taking advantage of him as well."

He smirked. "Weren't you telling me last night that Clara Brereton was an eligible woman I should consider for a bride?"

"Quite frankly, I don't believe any of the women I spoke of last night would be suitable for you. I'm afraid all the ones suitable are already married or engaged. But if I meet anyone new, I'll be sure to let you know."

He nodded his head with a chuckle before answering my original question. "I truly don't know much. I don't believe they knew each other until last night. I woke up this morning to the news of their engagement. But I appreciate the information. I will dig a little deeper before my brother goes through with something harmful."

"I would do the same for one of my siblings," I said. "Being the eldest child comes with responsibilities."

He laughed and nodded his head. "That it does, Miss Heywood."

I watched as he left before joining Alison back in the house. Mrs. Campion and Edward Denham were still at the house and now joining us for dinner. Lady Denham seemed thrilled with the new plans and developments Eliza and Edward had shown her. As much as Lady Denham seemed happy to have Edward back in her life, I still couldn't get over the feeling that something was strange about his return at the same time as Clara and both show up in Sanditon engaged. Glances towards Lady Susan told me she had some concerns as well, but she didn't say anything to their face.

The following day, Alison and I readied for the festivities of Michaelmas. We all headed to church for a Michaelmas Day reading, before returning to the house to celebrate. Lady Denham went all out for the day. We spent most of the morning decorating with Lady Susan and a few of her other guests, while the Prince Regent and Lady Denham watched or rather directed. Lord Babington and Esther joined us in the midafternoon with Mr. Crowe in tow. Alison was overjoyed to have him be joining us. It was great fun and gave us something exciting to do. I missed Sidney, but I knew he was with his family celebrating as well. I was hopeful in a few short years I would also be celebrating with them. When it was time for the Michaelmas Feast, Edward Denham, with Eliza on his arm also joined us. The room grew silent as they walked in. It was rather uncomfortable, but Lady Denham insisted they take their seats with the rest of us. Esther looked far too uncomfortable being in the same room with Edward. Perhaps just as uncomfortable as I felt being at the same table with Eliza Campion.

"Mrs. Campion," Lady Susan began. "I hear you and Edward Denham are engaged. What brought this new development on?"

Eliza was quiet for a moment, selecting her words carefully. "Edward and I had the pleasure of getting to know each other better in London and things sort of just happened. We both have a common goal in mind."

"And what goal is that, might I ask?" Lady Susan wondered.

"To develop Sanditon bigger and better, of course," Edward answered for Eliza raising his glass for a toast.

"Here, here!" Lady Denham shouted raising her own glass. We all followed and raised our own glasses for a toast even if it was awkward and a little ill-timed.

After we were done eating, Esther and Lord Babington announced they were leaving. Lady Denham insisted they stay for conversation, but Lord Babington expressed his concern for Esther's health and wanted to get her home. I think most of us knew they wanted to leave because of the awkwardness of being in the same room with Edward and Eliza. Esther took my hand and had me walk with her outside while Lord Babington spoke privately with the Prince Regent for a moment.

"Charlotte, you have to know whatever it is Edward and Eliza have going on is not real," Esther said with great concern.

"I know. Something is rather suspicious about all of this. Even seeing Clara who is now engaged to one of the Moreland men has me questioning what's going on," I said.

"They are clearly manipulating my aunt. I'm not entirely sure why, but it's rather obvious. I don't think she will listen to anyone but you. Please talk to her after they leave and convince her she's making a mistake by bringing him back into her life."

"I'll do my best, but I don't know if she will listen to me. We haven't been on the greatest of terms lately with her blatant disregard for Sidney."

"You have to try." I nodded my head in agreement. She gave me a quick hug before climbing into the waiting carriage.

Lord Babington appeared a moment later and stopped at my side. "Something doesn't sit right with all of this," he said almost as if he was talking to himself rather than me.

"I would have to agree with you."

He sighed before reaching into his pocket. "Sidney asked me to give this to you," he said handing me a letter. I took it from his hand before curtsying. He climbed into the carriage and left with Esther. I opened the letter and read it in the moonlight.

My dearest Charlotte,

I have been dreading this letter, but the time has come. I will be leaving for London tomorrow for my extended time away in Antigua. I wish I didn't have to leave you, but it's the only way. Please meet me at the cove in the morning so we can have a proper parting.

With all my love,

Sidney

Tears streamed down my face uncontrollably and I struggled to breathe normally. I knew it was going to happen soon. I had prepared myself for the separation. But now knowing he was leaving so soon overwhelmed me. He never said when he planned to leave. I thought we'd have more time. I couldn't bear it.

I tried to take some deep breaths before wiping my face and walking back into the house. I hid my pain the best I could before excusing myself to my room. Alison was the only one in the room who knew something was not right. She stayed close to Mr. Crowe, though, enjoying her time with him.

I cried myself to sleep and by morning, I had decided to pull myself together and not cry in front of Sidney. He needed me to be strong. He needed to know I was going to be alright without him. I had to be strong for him.

I dressed quickly and walked from Sanditon House to the cove like I had done plenty of times before. I reached the clifftop and could see Sidney sitting on a rock staring out at the water crashing in and out of the ocean. I had to really fight the tears back as I walked down the embankment to where he was. He heard me coming and quickly jumped to his feet and pulled me close to him. We didn't speak for a moment, just stared into each other's eyes, breathing heavily and trying hard not to lose control.

"No Alison to escort you today?" he asked trying to make light of the situation.

"I didn't tell her I was coming."

He sighed and looked down at our entwined fingers. "I wish I didn't have to leave."

"I thought we'd have a little more time before you decided to go," I admitted.

"The sooner I go, the sooner I can come back," he explained.

"I've decided I'm going to ask Mary if I can stay with them until your return. I can't bring myself to stay with Lady Denham another day."

He chuckled. "I'm sure Mary will love having you."

He reached up and gently touched the necklace around my neck he had given me. I looked at him with so much sadness, I couldn't help it. My heart was breaking. "I have a going away gift for you," he said.

"I don't need gifts, Sidney."

"Humor me, please. It makes me feel better knowing you have something to remember me with." He reached into his pocket and pulled out a simple gold ring with turquoise stones around a center ruby. My breath caught in my chest as I stared at it. "It's another piece of my mothers. My father gave it to her when he had to leave for a while. It's called the forget-me-not ring. I thought it rather fitting." He slipped it on my finger and held my hands in his while he admired it on my finger.

"I have something for you too," I said. I unfolded a handkerchief and pulled out the gold compass that once belonged to my father. I had always loved staring at the needle spinning around when I spun as a little girl. When I got older, he gave it to me. I thought it was such a wonderful gift, but more than likely he gave it to me because he had gotten a new one. I wanted Sidney to have it now. I handed it to him but felt a little silly about it compared to the gift he had given me.

"It's a compass," I explained hesitantly.

He smiled and nodded his head before meeting my eyes with his. "So I can find my way back to you?" he asked.

"Something like that," I answered nervously. He sighed and pulled me into his arms, crushing me against his chest and wrapping his arms around me. I allowed him to hold me, breathing in the familiar scent of him, willing it to my memory so I wouldn't forget it.

"It's perfect," he said breathing heavily against me and losing his control.

"I'll write to you every day," I promised.

"I will too."

"I'll be here waiting for your return. I don't care how long it takes. I'll wait."

"I promise I won't be gone longer than two years. If I still haven't come up with the money, I have every intention of returning and begging Lady Denham to let us marry. Perhaps after two years, she will finally give in."

"I'll continue to try to wear her down," I said with a giggle against his chest.

He sighed again and tightened his hold around me. "How can I possibly say goodbye to you again?"

"Don't," I said looking up at him. "Don't say goodbye. Just tell me you love me, and we will see each other again very soon." I was beginning to lose my control. We looked into each other's eyes for a long time before he leaned down and crushed my lips with his. The cold feel of his lips mixed with the warm breath and feel of his tongue were intoxicating. All sense was lost in that kiss. The buildup over the last few days to kiss him had all come out in this earth-shattering kiss. Our lips moved against each other, gentle at first but more urgent and desperate as we continued. The thought of breaking apart was unbearable for both of us. The moment he stopped kissing me, meant he was closer to leaving me. I let out a small whimper when he did finally break away from my lips.

His forehead leaned against mine and his breathing was shallow and shaky. "I love you, Charlotte," he breathed.

"I love you," I cried beginning to crack and not able to hold it in any longer.

He gave me one last quick kiss on my forehead before getting on his horse and riding away. I broke down crying after he was out of sight and fell to the cold sand. I knew this was coming, but I didn't realize it was going to hurt so badly. This goodbye hurt far worse than the one we had when he thought he had to marry Mrs. Campion. Everything inside of me was screaming to follow after him and not allow him to leave without me.

NOTES: This chapter might not be at the greatest time in light of what happened yesterday, but perhaps we all need a good cry right now. I know I do.

As for the gifts, you all know I love to do research. These were common things to give as gifts. Locks of hair were also common gifts, but I didn't feel like that was something Charlotte or Sidney would do.