Chapter 1: Fortunes
Notes:
Sidney will appear soon, don't worry! 😉🔥💎
Chapter Text
Charlotte was tired tonight. Really tired. More like bloody exhausted.
It always seemed she was the one who had to pick up the slack for the other girls in their group. She was getting sick of it.
I suppose she wouldn't call them a group.
More like a GANG really!
She sighed. Tonight they were getting ready for their nightly heist.
Tonight was going to be different apparently.
Tonight of all nights.
When Charlotte just wanted a break from it all and go back to her family and give them the much needed money and items she and Alison had stolen.
Stolen! Yes! You heard right! It was all bloody STOLEN!
But she knew right now she couldn't.
Her family would shame her and her sister.
She was ashamed! Utterly ashamed of herself!
What would her father say?!
But they need the blasted money! If it wasn't for she and Alison, her whole family would be out with nowhere to sleep and hungry! For weeks! Maybe months!
The harvest and the state of their cattle and sheep, not to mention half of their tenants having to leave because of the big drought in South West.
The last 2 years at Heywood Manor and the village of Willingden. Where definitely nothing ever happens there now!
They had to leave to try to help the family. Their brothers had gone off to London and the America's to find work.
Alison and Charlotte told their parents they had managed to find work as Maids with reputable families in London.
As long as the money kept being sent and received Mama and Papa didn't need to know.
My Dearest Daughter Charlotte
Thank you so much for the recent funds you and your sister sent last week.
It was much needed to purchase some more feed for the chickens, horses and of course your siblings still residing here.
Your Mama and I dearly miss you both, but we so appreciate your courage and efforts, you, Alison and your brothers are doing right now to help out the family right now.
You know it won't be forever.
Until next week my precious daughter.
Your loving Papa
That last letter from her father almost killed Charlotte. If only he knew.
"Hurry up Charlotte! No dilly dallying tonight! We've got a big one tonight. And apparently a special visitor after, so you and your sister better be on your best mind you, you hear!"
That woke Charlotte up from her day dreaming. A special visitor? That only meant one thing! More to steal.
Which meant she and Alison better dress in their finest tonight!
Chapter 2: The Visitor
Summary:
The special visitor turns up.
See notes below: music related for this chapter and new characters.
Notes:
Thank you to my lovely readers for taking the time to read my new story and your lovely comments. I always appreciate your continued support. It really means the world to me. ❤️ I only hope I can keep up the suspense and WTF?! Charlotte and her sister both criminals! Be interesting to see what happens when they happen upon Sidney, Crowe and Babbers and the others! 😉
Hope you enjoy this new chapter. Take care.
Cheers
Jazzy🌻
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
** Can you guess which could be both Charlotte and Alison?! The women in this gang often dressed as men!**
But tonight both Charlotte and her sister would not be wearing men's clothes. Since they were told a "special visitor" would be arriving soon to the Elephant and Castle, their two leaders Mary and Alice had instructed all women to dress in their special voluminous bustle tops and skirts, which had extra artificial arms and purses sewn into their sleeves or skirts. **They were called the shoplifter skirts and what genius women they were of their day!**
Charlotte was trying to think on who this "visitor" would be? As she knew they would be going down there before the big heist tonight.
Down there meant "downstairs".
Downstairs as they called it, or in the news that got around in the hotels and pubs, they were called underground clubs or underground fighting rings. In the know also called them gambling rooms.
London.
1860s
Dark. Dirty most of the time down there.
Not like up there with the best of the best, or The Ton as they were called.
Down here you had to fight for you what you wanted. Fight for your rights.
Especially if you were a woman.
Charlotte and Alison were well aware of their station in London.
They knew they had to be on their guard and watch every step they took.
24 hours of every day.
That was until they could scrape enough money to at least go back home to Willingden.
As she and Alison were almost dressed and ready to walk down the staircase to the "club" down below, Mary Carr came up to their room.
Now both Mary or Alice usually didn't come up to the women's rooms, unless there was something important to discuss.
"Girls!" Mary came waltzing.
"Look sharply now! Our visitor has just arrived, and I want you two to entertain her first. Introduce her around the place, you know. So she's not so nervous, before she starts her first round tonight."
Both Charlotte and Alison looked astounded at their matron.
"The visitor is a she?! You mean a female?!" Asked Alison incredulous.
Mary looked at her young charges. They were both bright and fisty, some of her best employees to date. They were also quite naive in their worldly experiences though she often thought.
"Oh my dears! I'm sure Alice and I told all of you girls the other day!" She slyly winked at her older sister Charlotte. "Yes! Our visitor tonight is a woman!"
"My darling girls, tonight is the first night we commence our first ever Female Underground Boxing** (see note)"
Charlotte and Alison were speechless! Female boxing?! Women can't box! Only men do that! These new modern times!
"Come on! Chop chop! Downstairs with you now and make yourself known to our lovely new prize!"
The two sisters still hadn't uttered a word as they walked down the stairs. They were both shocked. They got extra tips from the men boxing clubs, but women? Would that ruin their business?
Only time would tell.
"Mary! What took you so long! Our guest has been waiting! I thought you told me Charlotte and Alison would be able to handle this new one!"
"They can and they will Alice! Don't worry!" Mary clenched her fists. She didn't like to be spoken down to from Alice in front in of the girls. It was like Alice was trying to take over the leadership and she wasn't going to stand for it! She started this business, not her!
"Come on then! Here she is! I'll introduce you and Alison, please be a darling and get us all a bloody Mary." Alice smirked at her young employee.
"Charlotte. Alison. May I introduce you to Miss Georgiana Lambe, from Antigua!"
"Miss Lambe! It is a pleasure to welcome you to Forty Elephants and our first ever Underground Female Boxing event in London! It truly is an honour to have you here in London, and to fight here for us tonight!"
"So welcome, and please enjoy yourself!"
Miss Lambe looked up with a rather unimpressed look in her eyes. She looked around and thought if she had made the right decision coming to England. It was so cold and dark and dingy here in London. Nothing like back home.
But she needed the money.
Desperately too.
She was a good fighter back home on her island, she was quite famous there and well known. So she was hoping to capitalise on that fame here too.
At only nineteen years age, she knew she was young for a female boxer; but she also knew she was good.
She just had to prove it to the people of another country. A land she had never been to until last night.
She was alone. She knew no one here. She had hoped Otis would come with her, but he never responded back in time before she left on the ship.
All she knew right now was this few months in London had to be a success, or she will be going back to Antigua with her tail between her legs.
"Miss Lambe? Miss Lambe! Miss Lambe!"
Charlotte repeated several times before Georgiana finally woke up from her pondering thoughts.
"Sorry, I was far away for a moment there."
"Yes, we could see that. Are you alright Miss Lambe? Are you ok for us to show you around now before you start?" Charlotte asked kindly.
"Yes, and please...call me Georgiana. I much prefer you did."
"Alright then. Pleased to meet you Georgiana. This is my younger sister Alison and I'm Charlotte. We just want to make sure you're relaxed and happy before you and the other women begin tonight. So we'll begin by showing you the club, introduce you to the other girls like us who work for Miss Diamond and Mrs Carr. Then you can rest before your first fight. How does that sound to you?"
"I guess that sounds alright to me. Relaxing beforehand will definitely help, thanks."
"Um, you seem to be quite good at this Miss Charlotte, was it?"
"Yes, I'm Charlotte Heywood and my sister Alison. Thank you."
"So, Miss Heywood's, you've done this work before then have you?'
She was curious about these two. Perhaps they could be her new friends here?
"Well Miss Lambe, "
"Please, Georgiana."
"Well Georgiana, we come from a large farming family in Willingden, and we have 10 siblings under us! So we are used to being organised and delegating and helping both our parents with the farming produce, my father's tenants and the rest of the estate. So, yes I guess it just comes naturally to me!" Charlotte shrugged.
"Well then! I look forward to hearing more about you and your family then, but for now; yes, please do show me around and I have to say I'm now getting quite excited about tonight now!"
"Wonderful Georgiana! Shall we then!"
Notes:
https://londondarktourist.com/female-gangsters-forty-elephants/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ov4y4lO_AgA
☝️☝️☝️ True History of first ever female underground bare-knuckle boxing in Georgian London! I had no idea until I was doing some research, so it changed my story somewhat and especially for this chapter too!
Chapter 3: We Are The Champions*
Summary:
So the fight is on! Who is Georgiana's opponent?
You said what?! You read right!
APOLOGIES! I've decided to split this chapter now! lol 😝🙃😉🥊 My brain is tired, but I want to post it now, so I'll come back tomorrow or Monday.
Happy Easter too everyone! 🐇🐣🥕
Notes:
Hello dear readers! So did you guess the special visitor was Georgiana and a boxer?! 😉🥊🥊
Will Sidney turn up tonight? What about Otis?
Keep reading to find out! Thanks for the kudos and comments, I so appreciate it.
Cheers
JazzyOz 🌻P.S Apologies for all the links to videos or articles in this chapter - I think I got carried away in my research! lol
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Otis wasn't too happy that Georgiana had arrived in seedy London before he did. He hadn't had time to respond back to her letter, knowing she was already halfway to the English shores. Whilst he...he was still fighting criminal and gambling charges back in Liverpool, after distributing political papers throughout England for his close friends and founding members of the Sons of Africa; Olaudah Equiano and Ottobah Cugoano .
Otis and his friend Olaudah were both originally from Guana, West Africa. A long way from England. Both no longer slaves, his friend had done quite well for himself. But Otis...well, he knew he had a slight gambling problem. Well maybe it wasn't a slight problem! He just sometimes didn't know when to stop, that was his problem! 🫣🙃
A slight gambling problem you say?!
But when he got so heavily in debt of more than £3,000 and started asking for Equiano and Cugoano for help; he knew had a problem.
But then he met Miss Lambe. Miss Georgiana Lambe.
She was beautiful. Talented. Intelligent.
Unfortunately she was very young, and also had no money! Damn he thought!
If only! She was the most amazing eyes, and her hair and colour of her skin; it was just like his. He fell in love with her right there on the spot!
But then he found out her inheritance had been tied up quite fashionably and then most had been swindled by her long lost cousin (of course! And this story Sidney Parker has never met Georgiana before!)
His love had been left with so much as £200 annual payment a year! That wouldn't do! How could he pay his debts now and then marry her and make a new life in England with Georgiana?!
He would have to come up with another plan, and quick smart!
As he was coming up with a new plan to obtain some new funds tonight at Georgiana's first fight in London, he suddenly bumped into someone he knew.
"Otis?! What are you doing here?!" Asked the man incredulously.
Otis looked up and saw a face he didn't think he'd ever see again, nor want to.
"Mr Parker! I could say the same about you!" Otis brushed him off and attempted to walk away, but the man was having none of that.
"No really! Otis, what are you doing back in London and a place like this?! Last time I saw you, you were heavily in debt. I helped you out somewhat. Please don't tell me you have fallen prey again?!"
"It's none of your business! I'm here on business with my friend!" Otis snapped back.
"Parker, who is this fellow? Introduce us old man and forget your manners!"
"Aye, Aye Parker, don't forget your manners you old brute!" One of his friends Crowe laughed as he stagged half drunk next to his friends.
The tall man with dark curly short hair, handsome dark brown eyes, twirled his cane in his right hand; whilst he clenched his jaw in frustration.
"Gentlemen, let me introduce you to a Mr Otis Molyneux. Formerly of Guana. We first met in when I was in Antigua. Mr Molyneux, these are my friends; Lord Babington and Mr Crowe."
"Pleasure to meet you Mr Molyneux." spoke Lord Babington.
"Likewise. I apologise, but I can't stay to chat. I have business to attend to."
"Are you here for the fight too Mr Otis?!" smirked Crowe.
"Crowe! Just leave him be!"
"Sidney! We're all friends are we not?! We're here for the same reason. To drum up some business for yourself and your dumb beat of an older brother!"
"CROWE!!!"
Otis ran off when he had a chance. Of all the places, he had to bump into bloody Sidney Parker! Again! He hurried to find Georgiana to make she was ready for her big fight.
Elizabeth Wilkson-Stokes. Would be Georgiana's opponent tonight. The Forty Elephants was crowed tonight. Not for the newcomer from Antigua, but for Elizabeth.
https://www.tumblr.com/georgianlondoner/49461276531/elizabeth-stokes-lady-bare-knuckles 🥊🥊🥊
https://medium.com/flamma-saga/female-bare-knuckle-boxing-in-georgian-london-a-hidden-and-forgotten-history-5b6a502f3558
🥊🥊🥊 Above on left is supposed image of Elizabeth Wilkinson-Stokes, first female bare-knuckle boxer in London. Her last fight was reported in 1733. She was known as the "Cockney Championess"
Elizabeth usually advertised in the newspapers for her upcoming fights, but this one tonight was unusual to say the least. She had never fought in The Forty Elephants before. Nor had she fought against a "half-mulatto". Elizabeth had no doubt she was still going to win her prize of 3 guineas, but never having seen this half-mulatto fight before - she new she had to be on her toes or wits about her.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vy2wsAWpc6w - *history on some women fighting
The guineas had been placed. The fight was on. It was burley, it was rough, it was bloody, like it always was, but bloody hell. Elizabeth was out breath!
She picked up the coins and threw them on the ground, to indicate that Miss Georgiana Lambe was the winner!
Elizabeth couldn't believe it! She had never lost a fight before! Not to a youngun before, certainly not one with black skin!
She ran in anger at herself and the other women who would be fighting after her.
Who was this black girl? She would find out and make sure he beat her next time for sure!
The crowd was loud. Half were applauding the new young black woman who won. The other half were mighty angry their Championess lost!
"Ouch!" cried both Charlotte and Georgiana, as they were walking her back to her room.
"Watch what you're doing Mister!!!" snarled Georgiana. Clearly annoyed and uppity at the same time. Very pleased with herself for winning.
She could see Otis out of the corner of her eye. Finally! She thought.
"Watch what I'm doing?!" Sidney Parker looked incredulous at Miss Lambe. The nerve of her! And the maid with her! Mind you, the maid didn't actually look like a maid and she was quite lovely to look at to be honest. Stop it Sidney!
"You unceremoniously collided into me! Miss Lambe is it?!"
"You know who I am Sir!" she snarled again.
"Well then! I agree you won a good fight out there, but I thank you for that, as I won dutifully on my bets!" He smirked at Miss Lambe and her maid.
"But, I think you need to learn some manners though Miss!"
"And who do you think you ARE?! Mister know it all?!" Georgiana was furious now.
"Mr Parker. Mr Sidney Parker, at your service!" He bowed to both the women, whilst quickly sneaking a look at the maid.
"Grrr! You bloody MEN are the damn same! Come on Charlotte, let's go! Where is your sister?"
"Georgiana! Georgiana!" cried out Otis as he came almost crashing into the four of them.
"You were brilliant! I can't believe you beat the Championess!"
"Otis! You came! I can't believe you found me! You came!" Georgiana gushed as she went to hug him.
"Otis?! You know Miss Lambe?!" Sidney Parker asked astonished.
"Yes, Mr Parker. It's a long story, but it's none of your business now! Come on Georgiana, let's get you out of here!" As he grabbed her arm.
But Sidney tried to stop them.
"None of business?! Don't you forget one thing Mr Molyneux! I helped pay off some of your debts, and I understand in your in way over your head again. You think I'm going to come rescue you again? Or Miss Lambe here will rescue you?! Highly unlikely!"
Sidney looked down on both them. He tried not to be a brute, especially in front of this new woman, this maid, but he had to display some harsh truths when it came to that young man!
Before he got an answer, Otis grabbed Georgiana and run up the staircase.
They were gone in a fleet.
"He will never learn that man!" Sidney sighed and clenched his jaw.
He realised then he was left alone with the other woman.
"I apologise Miss. Miss Lambe has suddenly left you! Are you her servant, maid?" He had secretly hoped not!
"Um, no! I am not Miss Lambe maid! My sister Alison and I do work here though for Madam Mary. We were just asked to show Miss Lambe around tonight before her fight. You know to make her feel comfortable."
"I see. Can I ask why you and your sister would work here of all places? I apologise if I'm being prudent or prying, but you don't seem the "type", if you know what I mean?"
He really hope he hadn't offended her.
"It's a long story too unfortunately, but my sister and I also need the money." She looked down at her feet ashamed.
"I'm sorry if I offended you in any way. My name is Sidney. Sidney Parker. Pleasure to meet you. Miss?"
"Pleasure to meet you too and you didn't offend me Mr Parker."
"My name is Miss Charlotte Heywood. My sister name is Alison. We're from Willingden you see."
"So you're a Gentleman's daughter then, a farmer?"
"Yes Sir."
"Please. Call me Sidney." He smiled down at her.
"Charlotte then." She blushed a crimson red as she looked down again.
A farmers daughter. A Gentleman's Daughter!
Notes:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FP808MiJUcM
☝️☝️☝️ Queen - *We Are The Champions - 1985 Live Aid
If you guessed, this song inspired me not just for the chapter title, but for female boxing. I've loved Queen for many years.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iCJLOXqnT2I
☝️☝️☝️ David Bowie 1986 - Absolute Beginners from the Film
Another song which inspired me not just for the chapter for female boxing, but for LOVE also as you will see as the chapters transform. David Bowie was one of my favourite singers from the 70s and 80s. Such a beautiful voice, but acted in a few movies too; like many singers do in their time.https://www.historic-uk.com/HistoryUK/HistoryofBritain/Sons-Of-Africa/#:~:text=The%20Sons%20of%20Africa%20were%20a%20abolitionist,founded%20by%20Granville%20Sharp%20and%20Thomas%20Clarkson%E2%80%A6&text=With%20the%20collaboration%20of%20fellow%20former%20slaves%2C,who%20called%20themselves%20the%20Sons%20of%20Africa.
☝️☝️☝️ Interesting info on Sons of Africa.
Chapter 4: Up the Creek with No Paddle
Summary:
The "big fight" between the female stars didn't go as planned for some, but now the "girls" have got work to do.
Now that Sidney Parker has arrived on the scene, what will he think of Charlotte and Alison's "real job"?
Notes:
Thank you for reading my crazy last chapter, which I ended up splitting and even now have changed the title to this chapter, as I realised somethings aren't fitting quite right...yet! 🤦♀️🫣😅
I appreciate all your kudos and comments, and really appreciate you still sticking with me. I hope you enjoy the next few chapters and that they make sense! 😉
Cheers
JazzyOz 🌻
Chapter Text
Sidney Parker was just about to offer to walk Miss Charlotte back to the safety of her sister, when her employee did that for him instead.
"Chalotte! Come! Come now1 It is time to go! Quickly now girl! Don't ya dawdle now ya hear me! We don't have the time tonight. Last night was a complete disaster! Laura and Maggie are now in jail, as well as bloody Mary! Where is your damn sister now?! Tell her to hurry up and be quick smart about it. You both have two minutes to be ready!"
Sidney couldn't believe his ears. He clenched his fists and his jaw was needing not another work out, but a cigar perhaps and a drink. But now was not the time, when he could clearly see this Charlotte was highly embarrassed now in front of him. He felt for her. All he wanted was to take her in his arms and comfort her, but he knew it was highly inappropriate as he had only just met her. There was something about her though that intrigued him. She didn't appear to whimper or cower in shame at the shouting down. She didn't show that she wanted or needed his help. But he knew she was a Gentlemen's daughter, and that meant something to him, to her father. Both gentlemen.
Sidney knew she shouldn't be here, that she and her sister would most likely still be at the family farm; helping out as farming families always do. But she briefly told him before that "we also unfortunately work here too, as we need the money." He remembered Charlotte did looking ashamed then and looking down at her feet. Was that because she had never spoken to another gentleman, besides her father? Or was it because of the establishment she and her sister worked at? Was she embarrassed?
Why? Why did they need the money? Was her father ill? Both parents or siblings? Or something else? He remembered then reading some of the newspapers a few weeks back, the mention of droughts and crops disaster in some areas in the southwest of England. Was Charlotte's farm one of those badly affected?
He suddenly had all this rush of adrenaline through his body, and he knew without a doubt that he wanted to; no had to find out more about this Charlotte. She seemed amazing, and beautiful at first sight of course. I've never had these kinds of feelings before. Even with Eliza! He had to help her! He must!
(all those thoughts from Sidney actually occurred in less than the required 2 minutes!)
"Charlotte! Who was that?!" Sidney asked but already afraid of her answer.
Charlotte looked panicky for a moment, then calmed herself and whispered "She is our other boss, Alice Diamond! She takes over when the head boss Mary is out of action."
"What do you mean, out of action Charlotte?!"
"Mary Carr is our leader and started all this. She is the one who trained us women."
"Trained you? Trained you in what? Not boxing as well, surely not?!" He couldn't think of anything worse for Charlotte being a boxer!
"No Sidney!" She whispered into his ear, bending on her tippy toes.
"Then what?! What do you women do here for the money you need?!"
"I shouldn't be telling you!" She looked at her feet again.
"Why not? Is it a secret?!"
"Yes! I could get in big trouble Mr Parker!"
"It's Sidney please! Charlotte, please! I want to help you. If I can." He looked down at her with genuine concern.
"I told you, we need the money." She hesitated. "We need the money for my family. My father. The farm is heavily in debt."
"I can't say anymore, as someone may hear."
Charlotte was about to walk off in search of Alison, but Sidney gently grabbed her arm.
"Charlotte! I'm so sorry for your family's troubles. I would seriously like to help, if I can. If you'll let me?"
"But I can't if you won't tell me what kind of work you and your sister do here?"
"Please Charlotte, let me help you!"
"I can't! I'm sorry Sidney! Please just kindly leave us alone! I'm so sorry!"
Charlotte then ran off sobbing her eyes out. She so wanted to tell this gentleman, this very handsome Sidney Parker all her worries and thoughts, as he seemed so kind. But she couldn't. Alison and her needed the money. It was as simple as that.
Dammit thought Sidney. He thought Charlotte was about to tell him, but she got frightened off. He could understand he reasoned. She didn't know him from a bar of soap. They needed the money and she was probably scared they might lose their jobs. But what jobs? Just then he hears a kerfuffle and notices Charlotte, her sister Alison and some other women with their 'boss lady Alice Diamond" leave the building via a back door.
He attempts to follow them quietly, when Crowe and Babington suddenly come up to his right side and startle him.
"And where do you think you're going Parker?!" demanded a still drunken Crowe as he shouted.
"Keep your bloody voice down Crowe!" Sidney tried to shush his loud friend.
"What's happening Sidney?" Babington, the always genteel man of the 3 friends asked softly.
"What's happening, is I'm going to follow them, to see what these women for a job, to earn their keep!"
"Why? Why on earth Parker do you want to follow these girls, these harlot's?! A poggled Crowe almost shouted out once again.
"Crowe! That is enough!" Sidney grabbed his friends throat to try to shake some sense into him.
"Sidney! Parker! That is now enough! Let him go old man!" Pleaded Babbers, as he pushed both men apart.
Sidney groaned and huffed with anger.
"I don't have time for this shenanigans you two! You either come with me, or go on own merry little way somewhere else!"
"Alright Sidney, we're coming with you, whether you like it or not! Someone needs to keep you on the straight and narrow too you know!" Snapped Babbers back at his friend.
Sidney groaned again. "Well come on then! And if he's coming, make sure he can walk instead of stumbling everywhere Babs!" meaning of their mutual friend Crowe.
As they quickly and quietly followed the Forty Elephants Gang, they soon saw the group stop and some of the women dispersed.
Suddenly, Sidney saw both Charlotte and her sister Alison come out of another building with another person, a man. The 3 friends had to stop as to try not to reveal themselves, but what they saw was astonishing.
Sidney was sure he could see Charlotte and Alison dressed up in the latest fashion from the Ton! But how?! She said their farm was in debt, so how could they afford these beautiful clothes? And Charlotte did look extremely beautiful right now. His breath was taken away for a moment.
"Hang on a minute!" said Crowe all of a sudden fully awake by now. That man with them is not a man Parker! That is a woman dressed as a man!"
Incredulously, both Sidney and Babington look a little closer and can't believe what they are seeing.
"By Christ, I think you're bloody right for once Crowe! a stunned Sidney stated.
A now even curious Babington suggested they follow them closely, "but remember not to be seen!" He whispered.
The three men followed silently, until the three other figures stopped by a restaurant and proceeded to enter the front door of the premises.
Just then Charlotte suddenly turned her head to look at their surroundings.
The 3 men held back behind the shadows.
Charlotte, Alison and the man Gertrude finally swiftly entered the front entrance. Without as much as a sound, they had vanished.
"I'm going in to have a look." Sidney declared.
"We all can't just walk in there Sidney! It will look too obvious!" Babington tried to reason.
"You two aren't coming with me. I'm going solo. You are staying out here to watch for me!"
"Now Parker old fellow, that's not fair! We want some action too!" cried Crowe
"Crowe the answer is NO! You can help next time!"
"Oh shit Parker! You're no fun anymore in your old age!" Crowe blurted as he swamped off pretending to be offended.
Rolling his eyes, Sidney assured his friends. "I'll be back as soon as I can. Make sure you stay here!"
Sidney wasn't sure either this was a good idea, but he had to do something. He felt like he needed to save these two sisters.
He slowly opened the front entrance to the Rules Restaurant in Covent Gardens.
The maître d took his greatcoat from him and offered him a table.
Before he could go any further, an angry Charlotte Heywood suddenly grabbed him by the arm.
She moved them both to a quiet parlor room.
"What are you doing here Mr Parker?!" She looked up into his face, looking quite stern and unhappy.
"I, I, um, I..." Dammit! Why was he suddenly lost for words around this woman!
"Well?! I'm waiting Mr Parker!"
"You followed me! Didn't you?! You followed us here! I saw you! Didn't you?! And I want to know why?!"
"Um, yes I did foll..."
"WHY?!! WHY?! Why Sidney! Why did you follow us?! Why are you here?!"
"What do you want from me?!!"
Sidney was once again stunned into absolute silence. All he could see was this angry, but beautiful woman staring back at him. With the most beautiful chocolate brown eyes he had ever seen. Despite them seething with anger at him. Her rose coloured lips were full and spitting venom, but all he could so was smile back at her. She was fisty, proud and stood up for herself and her sister and he liked that.
"What you smiling at?!" this seemed to further anger her spirit.
"Oh nothing!" he couldn't help but smirk at her. Oh shit! I am in trouble now!
Then in a moment of sudden clarity, he grabbed both her shoulders and kissed her!
Chapter 5: Absolute Beginners
Summary:
Last we were left with Sidney Parker suddenly smacking Charlotte on the lips! Let's see what happens next shall we...
Notes:
Thank you so much for your kudos and comments on my last chapter. I'm sorry it's taken a month to come back with this new one. If you read Pansticks' stories, then you may understand that I'm undergoing similar brain storms and then brain fogs. 🧠 I've also had some personal/family stuff going on (like everyone does) and that usually gets in the way. But I started the last of my cancer treatment last week 🤞 and whilst today, I've had to take a few more black coffees with my favourite ginger to keep me awake; I'm trying to remain positive. My friends and family, and that includes my writing friends and family too, have been such a wonderful support. I wouldn't have got through some tough days I don't think without you guys and other people around me. I laughed a lot this morning with some friends, and it was just what I needed. My husband flew in last night from his FIFO job and this morning, he said to our friends "I'm gonna check with Lauren's oncologist to see he hasn't also prescribed some funny pills in those new tablets!" But the laughter and joy was just what I needed.
So hope you enjoy this short chapter.
JazzyOz 🌻
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Charlotte started to get all warm and fuzzy inside. A kind of warmth grew inside of her, she couldn't seem to describe.
What was happening to her?
Oh! That's right! She was being kissed on the lips by one Mr Sidney Parker! And she liked it!
Well she thinks she did!
His lips were all warm and wet and big and oh...she couldn't breathe!
"I..." Charlotte tried to speak, but only stuttered or rather splattered out or spat out!
"I, I can't breathe! I can't breathe Sidney!"
"Mr Parker! Let me go! Please! Please let me go!" She didn't really want this snoutfair of a man to actually stop kissing her, but she suddenly caught eye of her employer, and oh boy she didn't look happy!
"Miss Heywood! Let go of that man now! You little fizgig!" Mary came out suddenly and grabbed Charlotte's arm and tore her away from Sidney.
Sidney Parker let go of Charlotte, reluctantly. Not realising he was almost stopping her from breathing. He was enjoying himself too much!
Who was this woman who handled Charlotte like that he thought. Surely not her employer?! I must get her and her sister out of this place!
"Mrs Carr! I'm so sorry! This gentleman was only trying to help my sister and I. He came upon us and thought we were being robbed ma'am." Charlotte quickly tried to come up with some answer for her angry boss.
"You Sir! Who do you think are huh?! A mister dandy flutterbum hey! All sprauncy and cocky with my girls here!"
"Well NO you don't Sir! You well shall leave NOW Sir! Now be on your way, before I call the night watchmen to come and getcha! Ya hear now!"
Sidney taken aback, looked at Charlotte. He stood up tall, all protective like. Just like a guardian would.
Sidney knowing he had to quickly think of something, turned to Mary Carr now.
"Mrs Carr. Let me introduce myself. I am Mr Sidney Parker of London and Sanditon, and I am the Guardian of the Heywood sisters."
Sidney looked out of the corner of his left eye to see the expression on Charlottes' face. To say at least the expression was of absolute gobsmacking terror in Charlotte's face, was an understatement. Once Sidney had a good peek, he realised she had a look of sheer anger and intense rage. In fact, he was utterly transfixed by the red rose blush to her cheeks. The embers in her dark brown eyes had been lit up like a fire cracker. Her large luscious lips looked too inviting again and all he wanted to do was pull her close and smack those lips again!
But how can I now, when I've just said I'm their Guardian! What is wrong with you, you bloody fool Parker! What am I going to do now?! Where is damn Crowe when I need him!
He is certainly NOT MY GUARDIAN! thought Charlotte to herself. Nor do I want him to be! Oooh! As she realised what she had just thought as she gasped and put her hand on her mouth.
"Guardian you say huh?! Mr Parker! Charlotte and Alison didn't tell me they had no guardian!" As she looked with death eyes at Charlotte.
Charlotte in the meantime was wondering where Alison had slipped to.
"Mrs Carr, I have only been their Guardian for a few months now. As I was requested to look after them by their parents. I am here to protect them for obvious reasons, and had no idea they were in this kind of employment!"
Sidney then looked sideways at Charlotte to assuage the intense moment.
He knew he had to think of something quickly to cover his story. But what story was that?
Sidney knew he had to protect them somehow, but he also knew he wanted to. You want to protect this Charlotte? And her sister? Why?
Well for one thing because she's beautiful when she's angry! She's got the most amazing smile, and her eyes...they make me melt all over. Oh bloody hell! She's just beautiful all over alright! I want to protect her. I need to protect her. I have to get out of this place!
"This kind of employment! Sir! You are beyond reproach! And I must ask you to leave immediately! How dare you lecture me and my gals in their place of employment! It is an honest living for some of these gals! Especially when their papa's throw them out on the streets mind you!" She howled back at Mr Parker.
"Yes, and that's just the thing Mrs Carr! I intend to get the Heywood sisters away from this environment. They both can do better than this, so they are coming with me as from tonight!"
The look of astonishment as both Charlotte and Mary Carr looked up at Sidney Parker was utterly delightful. That is if you were a spectator or like to trinkle in on this certain clandestine event.
"Well Charlotte! What do you have to say for yourself huh?! Is this true, what this gentleman says? Why were you not upfront with me at the beginning humph?!"
"Tell me gal! Or be gone with you with no more pay or the jewels you took tonight and last night! Ya hear me!"
Charlotte looked at Sidney, wondering how to complete his story.
She came up with...
"I'm ever so sorry Mrs Carr, but you see, I was correct when I advised you about my father being ill and two of my older brothers had passed away last year. It has been very hard on the farm and there has been drought and not enough money coming in. We as the eldest siblings had to look for work. We had no choice. Then Mr Sidney Parker was engaged by my Papa, and then we came here. You know the rest."
Charlotte looked up to Sidney to engage his reaction. Sidney nodded his approval.
Mary looked suspicious still. "Then why did you look shocked and yell at Mr Parker then Charlotte, like you didn't know him?! Hey then, tell me then!"
Charlotte fumbled with her answer, but she and Sidney spoke at the same time.
"I...She...wasn't expecting me/him until tomorrow."
"You see Mrs Carr, it was my mistake. I got the day wrong you see. But I promised their father, I would find them different employment. So I'm afraid we are off now."
"Come on Charlotte! Let's find your sister and get you home shall we."
"Stop right there Sir! Where is your chaperone?! I can't have you go alone out there with 2 young ladies!"
"I can't stop you Miss Charlotte, but mark my words, your father will be hearing from me! No extra pounds for him or your family for what you have done to me tonight!"
"You and Alison were my best gals for the last few months! I'll make sure you will find it hard to get any decent work young gal! Just you wait. Just you wait!"
"Now be off wit ya!"
After all the shenanigans, both Charlotte stood quietly together outside waiting for Alison and Crowe to come out. Crowe would be their chaperone after all. Gladly of course, Sidney knew he would agree to sitting next to a beautiful young woman!
"I don't know what to say Sidney. I'm lost for words right now, but thank you for now is all I can manage. We need the money you see and oh my father!"
"It's alright Charlotte! I'm sorry for putting you on the spot like that, but I had to get you out that situation. I couldn't let a beautiful young woman like you. A farmers daughter, a gentleman's daughter be succumbed to this situation, this plight anymore! It's too dangerous for you both! Don't you see that!"
"Beautiful. You said I was beautiful?"
"I did. And you are. Especially so tonight, Charlotte." He smiled down at her.
She blushed profusely.
"I like the way you blush. It suits you!"
Then they were both stuck in a moment of silence. A moment of pure delight. It was heaven and all the stars had come out and were shining down upon these two lovely people.
I've nothing much to offer
There's nothing much to take
I'm an absolute beginner
But I'm absolutely sane
As long as we're together
The rest can go to hell
I absolutely love you
But we're absolute beginners
With eyes completely open
But nervous all the same
With nothing much at stake
As long as you're still smiling
There's nothing more I need
I absolutely love you
But we're absolute beginners
But if my love is your love
We're certain to succeed
Notes:
If you're interested in the funny words I used in this chapter, well are they real! Funnily enough, they relate perfectly to this era and regency time, or shall I say Sanditon, and perhaps some savoury characters we well know! Below is the meaning of one of the words, but I'll let you ponder the rest!
Fizgig - A lightheartedly frivolous, silly, or flirtatious young woman or a firework that has gotten damp.
Absolute Beginners by David Bowie of course.
Chapter 6: So Where To Now?
Summary:
As the chapter title says...
Notes:
Apologies for the delay, but I've been training my brain 🧠 and body elsewhere! I've finally finished this chapter and here we are.
Hope you like it! Nothing fancy or music. Just to keep it going. I'm thinking 3 or 4 chapters to go before completion.
Have a good weekend.
JazzyOz 🌻
Chapter Text
Both Charlotte and Sidney were still staring at each other after their romantic interlude, when they suddenly got interrupted by someone. Or rather, some persons.
"Parker old man!" Crowe bellowed and Babbington came forth to try to lessen the assault from Crowe to his oldest and best friend, Sidney Parker.
"Crowe! Will you watch your mouth will you! I don't think Sidney here needs a crowd to appear."
Sidney nodded his appreciation to his old friend. "Thank you Babbers. I do appreciate your affluent decorum at times likes these, but yes that is enough Crowe!"
"But Parker! I saw you two! You kissed Miss Charlotte! You now need us as your chaperones!" Crowe was smirking to both his old friends.
Was he blind drunk yet or just simply tipsy?
"Crowe that is enough!" Sidney growled at his friend.
All the while, poor Miss Charlotte was standing there speechless and watching Sidney Parker in awe. He was handsome to boot. Tall, elegant, a gentleman for sure and wanted to rescue she and her sister. He seemed to be getting angry though at his friend. Almost protective like. Of her? She began to blush at the thought.
Fortunately Babbington noticed the posture of Miss Charlotte and could see she was looking embarrassed at the whole situation.
"Um Sidney, my friend. Your new friend Miss Heywood is still with us and we're talking like she is not even here!" he whispered to Sidney.
Sidney suddenly looked over at Charlotte in alarm. Fuck!
"Miss Heywood, I apologise for the fracas. My friend Crowe here only meant good intentions. I do hope you will forgive us for the lambaste behaviour. For my behaviour?"
He looked down at Charlotte's face. She didn't look horrified at all. All he could see was beautiful warm brown eyes smiling back up at him.
"There is nothing to forgive Mr Parker. I have seen worse, believe me." She smiled back at Sidney and then the other two men.
Sidney nodded and sighed gratefully at Miss Charlotte.
"Thank you Miss Heywood for your acknowledgement and kindness in this whole matter. I certainly have you and your sister care and reputations in mind, which is why I did what I did."
"The situation reminded me of my younger sister Diana and my brother Arthur, and if they were in the similar situation; or my sister-in-law Mary's children - I would do the exact same thing!"
Miss Charlotte Heywood looked up to Sidney Parker's eyes, and nodded gratefully. But she also looked down at her feet and sighed softly to herself.
So he only thinks of us like his younger siblings?! That's why he rescued us! Hmph! I knew it! He wasn't lying then to Mrs Carr when he said he was our Guardians!! Great! That's all Alison and I need is a Gentlemen who is a Mr Know It All, who thinks he can rescue us and show off to our parents the good deed he's done. Pay them some pennies and be off with him! Next then we'll see his rescue efforts in the papers! I should have known!
Why is Miss Charlotte scowling at me like that?! She suddenly looks quite angry. Again! I thought she waa grateful for the rescue? Right now, she looks like she's ready to punch me or box me in the ring inside there! 🥊🥊🥊
"Are you alright Miss Charlotte? You look, somewhat upset or angry at something?" Sidney looked down and asked.
"Well no, it's just that, where to now?" She lied back to Sidney.
She wasn't sure whether to be afraid to go anywhere with this man or not, or simply be the skilled woman that she was and deal with it.
"Well, that is a fair and proper question Miss Charlotte. I was thinking before I take you back to your family in Willingden, how would you like to see my family town of Sanditon by the coast? You can meet my sister-in-law Mary and my brother Tom and their four children. My sister Diana and brother Arthur are staying there too at the moment. Mary would glady have you stay for a few days to recuperate before you back home."
"Crowe and Babbers can come too to help and chaperone as Crowe quite rightly pointed out."
Crowe started to laugh.
"What's so funny Crowe?" Sidney pressed his friend
"Well, Parker my dear old friend. We all know your brother Tom thinks he is the Burgess of Sanditon! Poor Miss Charlotte and her sister Alison will never hear the end of how wonderful your coastal town is and how the sea air cures all ailments!"
"Oh but Mr Crowe! I've never seen the ocean or felt my toes in the sand and the sea before! Alison and I would love to go! Thank you so much Mr Parker for the invitation!"
Charlotte blushed profusely then as she looked up and then down again at her feet.
"You're very welcome Miss Charlotte. It is my pleasure!"
It was Sidney now the one blushing.
Chapter 7: Shoulder To Shoulder
Summary:
Before we arrive in Sanditon, the boys get down to business...
Notes:
6.7.2025 - I had almost finished this chapter and was going to post this on Tuesday, when I suddenly ended up in hospital with severe vertigo for the very first time! I fell off the bed and now have 3 bruises to proove for it! My right hip, toe and my bottom is quite sore! Thankfully I'm on the mend and this is only a short chapter. Enjoy! Lauren 🌷
This little chapter popped up in my head last night during my sleep! I'm sure other writers will contest to this!
As the summary says, I've decided to derail a little and spend sometime with the men of this story, before we head back to the women and arrive in Sanditon.
We will see perhaps what's going on in their heads!
Then I reckon 2 or 3 more chapters left.
Hope you enjoy this one! 🎩🧥🚬🥃🗝
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
After the Heywood sisters were settled in their room, the three men made their own way to the local tavern down. To be discreet you see.
It had been a long night for the young ladies and Sidney and Babbington, along with Crowe had decided to let them rest for the night; before the long journey to Sanditon the next day.
Now the men were into their drinks and Crowe was highly amused and motivated.
"I say Parker, you certainly have taken a shine to Miss Charlotte! Hasn't he Babbers!"
Crowe laughed contently as he slapped his friends on the back.
"That is enough Crowe!" Sidney almost shouted.
"Keep it down old friend. The louder you are in here, you'll have some more unwanted attention, than you did back at that club!" Warned his best friend Babbington.
Sidney hissed as he grounded his teeth and jaw, and looked at up at his two friends.
"That club is nothing Babbers. I've seen worse than that believe me!" Chuckled Crowe as he swung back his drink and proceeded to fill his glass with another.
"Of course you have Crowe!" Seethed Sidney.
"With the company you keep!" Sidney then growled and drowned his third lager.
"Oi you two! Can you at least keep it civil, whilst we figure out what to do next." Chatised Babbers.
"I already know what to do next Babbers. I'm taking them both to Sanditon."
Crowe and Babington and looked at each other, then back at Sidney.
"We're aware you've decided to take the sisters to your home town Parker, but what I want to know is why? Why? When your Blatherskite of a brother will keep you there you again for however long he pleases. And you know he will demand Babs and I to canudle for him too!"
"I mean honestly, I wouldn't be surprised if Tom tries to engage the Heywood sisters for their assistance!" Crowe joked.
But Sidney Parker wasn't laughing. He knew what his friend said was the half truth. Well, no the full truth.
Sidney sighed.
"I know. I know. But you must understand. I had to. I had to keep them safe. I had to keep them safe from that environment. They can't go back there! Miss Charlotte can't go back there!"
"I knew it! You are smitten with that Charlotte girl! She is quite a spunky little thing! I might even think about her sister Alison!" Crowe smirked.
Crowe knew he was setting Sidney up for that scowling face. He loved to tease his friend so.
"I said that is enough Crowe!" As Sidney thumped his fist down on the table.
"Alright! Alright! I admit it! Ok! You've got me! think the Miss Charlotte is lovely, and I haven't felt this way for a very long time." Sidney confessed to his friends in a whispered tone.
"Not since Eliza then you mean?" Questioned Babbers.
Sidney looked up at his two friends.
"No. Not since Eliza."
"Well then Parker, what do you plan to do with the sisters once you get them to Sanditon? Will you propose marriage to this Charlotte?!" Crowe asked cheekily.
"Crowe! Of course not! I hardly know her!"
"Yet."
"Yet he says!" Babbers and Crowe say simultaneously.
"Sidney my friend, I'd be happy for you, if you finally found your match. After all these years. God only knows, you know I crave the same now. But please be careful my friend. Remember her, their reputations. Her father is a Gentleman." Babbington cautioned.
Sidney had already thought of that.
"I know that Babbers. That is why, I'll put the sisters under the protection of Mary, whilst they are staying there. I'm sure my sister-in-law won't mind and honestly she could always do with more help with the children."
"You mean use them as a nanny?! Parker you bad boy!" Winked Crowe.
"That's not what I meant Crowe and you know it! The children already have a nanny. Charlotte told me she comes from a large family and has 10 siblings, she being the eldest. She confided the she loves children and looks after her younger siblings for her mother."
"It is only for a few days, whilst they simulate in Sanditon. Enjoy the sea air and beaches, meet some new people and friends, before we arrange to send them back to Willingden."
"And in those short few days, I suspect our friend Sidney Parker will fall hopelessly in love!" Smirked Crowe as he slapped his two friends again on their backs.
Sidney just rolled his eyes.
Babbers grinned his white teeth.
And Crowe.
All that was left to say was...
"Well then! I for one cannot wait until tomorrow!
"Bring it on men!"
Notes:
So I'm sure by now most you know I'm from Australia.
For the title of this chapter, I used a slogan of an Asociation that was started in Australia back in 1980 and has now spread to Canada, Denmark, UK, Wales, Scotland, Ireland, New Zealand, USA, Finland and Greece.
About 5 years ago, or after the Covid Pandemic began globally, a new association also began which allowed women to attend.
I wonder if any of you know what I'm referring? Then you may then guess why chose this title?
Chapter 8: Fighting Foes
Summary:
On the way to Sanditon, we bump into the boxing champs...
Notes:
Another quick short chapter. Two today from me!
This one just came to my head as I posted the previous one! So I started typing and here we are!
Enjoy! I'm guessing 3 or 4 after this now.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Otis and Georgiana had been watching the three gentlemen in the inn the night before.
Little did the three friends know, these two lovers were up to no good.
They were both known back in Antigua and Guana for being ex-slaves and being reputable boxers. Especially Georgiana Lambe. For a female boxer of dark skin, she was formidable in her homeland, but in the Continent and London...well her reputation had become something else.
She was fierce. A real fighter. Stood up for herself and her principles. After both her parents were killed when she was young, she had no choice, but to survive. And survive she did.
To do that, she would do anything. If crime fitted the bill, so be it. It worked well for her. So she kept on doing it. Stealing money, jewellery, clothes, gold, found food and her way on a ship.
That's when she met Otis Molyneux. He was a fighter. Well a boxer actually. He taught her everything. Upper and lower cuts. The right way to punch.
They soon found there was a boxing ring and money was to be made.
From a slave girl with nothing, finally earning her own money meant the dream to Georgiana.
But she wanted more. She wanted the lifestyle like Mary Carr from The Forty Elephants, and she was determined to bring it to another part of England.
What better way to follow these men and see what this seaside town, Sanditon has to offer!
They don't remember who she was, surely! That handsome man Sidney Parker was too interested in that Charlotte girl to remember me she thought!
So off to Sanditon they were today also. Carefully and discreetly of course.
The only problem? Where would they stay?
Notes:
There's something missing from this chapter. I have deliberately left it out! Can you guess what it is!?! 😏
Chapter 9: Sanditon and The Parker's
Summary:
We have arrived at the coastal seaside resort that is so infamously advertised by one Mr Thomas Parker.
Three Gentlemen. Two sisters. And some other stray visitors.
All have come to congregate on the hospitality of the Parker family and the Crowne Hotel.
But all is not as it seems.
Something wicked is coming this way...
Notes:
I seem to be on a roll with ideas to want to finish this short story!
Don't forget. As always, I write a Sidlotte HEA!
Also, I think there maybe about 12 or 13 chapters at tops.
Enjoy!
JazzyOz 🌻P.S. I may have borrowed a gull or two from MissToni - thank you 😊
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
The tide was low and the gales were blowing, when the carriages and horses first arrived along the cliff tops of Sanditon.
The herring gulls were in abundance today. Squawking with glee in the cold, blustery, chilling winds.
It was not a day for sea bathing, in a private cove or in the unique Sanditon bathing machines. It was a day to stay in doors.
But, it also made a day for unscrupulous dealings.
Oh dear! I wonder what that could mean? 🤔 🧐
Despite the howling gales, both Charlotte and her younger sister Alison were besides themselves with anticipation and excitement, and of course wonder.
Neither of them had ever seen the sea or touched the sand or sea shells 🐚 So you can only imagine their eagerness.
One thought that came to Charlotte's mind from time to time, was her family. More importantly her Papa. Her parents still didn't know of her and Alison' involvement with The Fourty Elephants. All her parents knew, or thought they knew was that they were working as Maids in London.
As Maids! Huh! If only they really knew what they had been up to these last 2 months and how they received the money, they sent forwarded onto their Papa.
That thought quickly went from her mind, when she suddenly heard voices from the Sidney Parker and his friends. Mr Parker horse began slow down, as well as their carriage. She looked out side the carriage and saw the other two men.
Then she saw it.
Trafalgar House.
She'd never seen anything like it before. Especially nothing like it from Willingden!
The house was beautiful! Engaging!
And suddenly there was a rush of noise and the front door opened.
A beautiful lady with blonde hair came out with several young children.
"Sidney! What are you doing back in Sanditon?! We weren't expecting you back from London for a few weeks yet Tom thought?"
"Lord Babbington. Mr Crowe." She curtseyed. "It is a pleasure to also have you here. You know you are always welcome in Sanditon at any time. Tom will be awfully pleased of course."
"Sidney! Who else is with you? Sidney! My dear! Is that two women sitting in the carriage?!"
"What on earth?! Please explain yourself!"
Oh dear thought Charlotte. This lady of the house suddenly doesn't seem to happy with Mr Parker! Oh! Is that his wife?! Oh no! And he kissed me! The rotten scoundrel! What was he trying to whelve from me?!
Sidney Parker then coughed slightly and whispered to the lady in question.
"I'll explain more when we get inside Mary, if that's ok? I assure you it's nothing untoward and Crowe and Babbington were chaperones the whole way down to Sanditon."
"Alright then. You know I trust you. And you are my favourite brother- in-law! Shh! Just don't tell Arthur that!"
"Don't worry. Your secret is safe with me!" He winked back at his sister-in-law.
Sidney Parker, as the gentleman he was, opened the carriage door to assist both ladies out.
Both were spellbound.
The lady of the house introduced herself.
"Welcome ladies. Sidney has assured me you are here for a few days, as new travelling companions for he and his friends. You are most welcome to stay with us at Trafalgar House, to rest. Before you journey back home."
Sidney looked at Mary. She always knew just the right thing to say. That's experience for you. She was a formidable woman. Especially putting up his older brother Tom! 🙄
"I am Mrs Mary Parker. My husband Tom will be home shortly. Sidney here is the best of brothers, you could ever find!" She smiled sweetly at both the Heywood sisters.
Oh! So he's not married then?!
Whilst Mary Parker was getting acquainted with her sudden new house guests, sipping tea and eating scones and jam; the men also having tea, with the exception of Crowe slipping some whiskey from his flask.
It seemed some other visitors had arrived in town and made themselves at home already.
Otis and Georgiana were lucky enough to find a room in the Crowne Hotel. They had followed closely behind the Heywood sisters and that braggart of a man, Mr Sidney Parker!
Now Otis and she would just sit tight watch for a few days.
Otis had told Georgiana all about his short history with Sidney Parker in Ghana and Antigua. He was unscrupulous.
His thrasonical address in boasting to Otis about his wealth and business back in London and Antigua had she now fuming too.
Despite Otis sometimes being a bit of a stannyel, she had fallen head over heels in love with him at first sight.
They had the same dreams. Same ambitions. But when Otis taught her how to box, Georgiana life suddenly changed.
That's when she knew she and Otis were meant to be.
Otis would bring her strength.
Otis would bring her power.
Otis would make them wealthy.
Otis.
Otis.
Otis.
(Did you guess what or who was missing from the last chapter? I deliberately left it out! MrSidney mentioned someone or something, and i gave her a clue!)
Notes:
So Renee and Butter aka 1Strategy_Renee1 wasn't quite sure of the Association I was talking about, in which I got the title "Shoulder To Shoulder" from.
So if anyone else is interested, the above slogan actually originates from WW1, as the men were going off to War. But this slogan was then adopted by the Australian Association set up in 1980, called "The Men's Shed". It was initially for retired men (still is) who would get together and chat, have a cuppa, do some wood work or metal work, grow vegetables etc. It was all about Men's Mental Health. 45 years later it is still going strong and in other countries. Even younger men are joining in and creating their own "Men's Club's. Just like Sidney, Crowe and Babington did the Whites Club in London!
Before my father in law passed away 5 years ago, he was heavily involved in the club for over 30 years and they made a memorable plaque for him after his death.
Interesting to know, they now have the "She Shed", where women can join and chat and make wood work with their tools. Again, it's all about Mental Health and you being healthy and happy 😊
Chapter 10: Molylambe Enterprises
Summary:
Dirty little secrets begin to unfold in the coastal town of Sanditon...
Notes:
Hope you enjoy this chapter!
I enjoyed writing half of it, whilst waiting for my husband at the dentist! 😁🦷
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Otis was not a patient man.
He was also a bitter man.
That bitter pill had settled within this young man from a very young age. A former slave from Ghana, he had been abused, nearly killed, sexually assaulted, degraded to almost nothing.
He somehow landed on Antigua in his teens and thought his life would change. Change for the better.
But then he met a man.
He was told this man was a Gentleman from England.
But to Otis, this man was no Gentleman from The Ton.
He saw this man help people. Help the slaves. Help the slaves?! A white man?!
But he also saw anger in this man.
Alot of anger and bitterness.
This man reminded him of himself.
A most unfortunate thing to see oneself.
He first saw that anger when he saw this man conduct in pugilism.
He took notice of something.
Something that others didn't see.
That this gentleman appeared to make money off being a pugilist.
So this gave Otis an idea.
If he can be a dandy Londoner and box, why can't a black former slave box too?
He had heard that the Prince Regent was an enthusiast, and of the infamous "Gentleman" John Jackson.
So history was made when a few months later in 1861, Otis Molyneux had gathered a few former and current slaves. They formed a small group.
But Otis' ultimate goal was to fight against this man and win.
He was determined to fight and beat this Mr Sidney Parker from London, England.
If he killed him.
That would be even better.
How? He didn't care.
If was from a fight, then it would surely be deemed an accident, right?
It wouldn't need to go to the magistrate?
Just as long as he didn't get caught and it happened quietly, and discreetly. That's all that mattered.
Why Mr Sidney Parker you may ask of this young Otis?
Well, according to Otis, this Sidney Parker is a Scaramouche of a man! A rotten scoundrel of the most lowest of levels.
Aye! Let me tell you readers that when Sidney Parker saw Otis Molyneux once again at the Forty Elephants headquarters in London the other night...well let's just say it wasn't on good terms.
Brief history between Sidney Parker and Otis Molyneux...
The saying goes back in Antigua that these two men didn't like each other from the day they met.
Mr Sidney Parker being a few years older than Otis Molyneux, seemed to carry a weight upon his shoulders, for someone still relatively young.
Mr Otis Molyneux on the other hand, whilst smart for a young fella his age being on the run and just trying to get by - seemed to rub most people up the wrong way. It didn't matter if you were dark skinned or white, Otis never seemed to make many friends easily. Only enemies quickly.
Well, when you start to steal from dead people and graves and even living people and then lying about it, you will start to get a reputation won't you!
And then when you realise that you can do much better than stealing from dead peoples coffins, and actually earn the money by gambling for a living.
Well, your life turns into a Hullabaloo of merry-go-rounds and fireworks and prizes and jewellery and more money 💰 and more prizes and it just keeps going and going and going.
You as a smart dark skinned man from nowhere, soon realise I can do even better
I can add boxing to my repertoire of skills and business of earning my keep.
So this is exactly what Mr Otis Molyneux did.
Unfortunately his enemy, although this was not known presently until sometime later...
Let's just sum it up this way shall we.
Mr Sidney Parker didn't fall for Otis Molyneux shenanigans one iota. Sidney Parker saw through his tactics straight away.
The few things that Otis Molyneux underestimated about Sidney Parker were the following:
Sidney was well educated.
Sidney could also box. And box well he could. He had been trained on Antigua.
Being a gentleman of the London Ton and society when he chose, Sidney was familiar with the "men's clubs", and the different activities that went on there.
Sidney Parker was unfortunate also to have experienced it all during his time in Antigua - famine, slavery, sexual abuse beatings, stealing, gambling, boxing - all this just to survive. And he was a white fella.
So, when it came for Otis and Sidney’s first ever boxing match together, it didn't go well.
Well, not for Otis anyway. HE LOST!
And he was mighty angry.
He lost the fight and all his hard earned money too!
They fought again. Otis won the 2nd match, but after that, Sidney was just too strong for Otis. He lost every match after that.
Otis even used his other boxing compatriots in his group to compete against Sidney Parker, to no avail.
For Sidney, it wasn't so much about winning and earning some money. Yes, it helped a little. For him, it allowed him not to focus on what he was still bitter about and why he was showing so much Segnity in returning to England.
He knew it was time. But he didn't want to face his brother Tom and the rest of the family. He didn't want to face the reality of what Eliza still did to him all those years ago. He didn't know if he would ever find peace again. The kind that his brother and Mary has.
Back in England...
Georgiana Lambe and Otis Molyneux were staying in a room at the Crowne Hotel, Sanditon.
Discreetly of course and they had lied that they were married to get a room together. A ring for Georgiana was no problem, as Otis still had plenty of items he had stolen from the bodies which he hadn't pawned yet.
They were currently devising their plan to invade the little town of Sanditon and bring both female and male boxing to the seaside resort. They were calculating possible profits, when they both laughed at the look of the Mr Thomas Parker, when he finds out.
"Or when his brother finds out you mean!" Otis spat out.
"You mean your arch enemy, Sidney Parker?!" Georgiana grinned at her lover.
"You know exactly who I mean my darling G!" Otis snickered with glee.
"He will get what is coming to him. Mark my words. I will get what I deserve!"
Notes:
I will probably add some more tags along the way to allow for more characters and use of language.
Probably not much history to tell with Georgiana and Otis. I think it's self explanatory - they find each other in Antigua. He teaches her to box. I don't want to bore you!
Chapter 11: Aegis
Summary:
We return to the scenes in Sanditon. The coastal seaside resort with supposedly no harsh winds or gales, or even herring gulls.
Whilst the Heywood sisters have been getting acquainted with the kind Parker family, something is a miss, or rather afoot.
Something or someone else shows their true colours....
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
When Sidney heard that Tom was going to take both Charlotte and her sister Alison out in the streets of Sanditon, and show them all the hard construction work that Young Stringer and his workers have been able to achieve in the last few weeks.
Well.
Well, he decided to go with them.
In his own mind, he told himself it was for their reputations and as another chaperone.
But he also knew it was for their own protection. From all the men, working on the construction site.
Including one James Stringer!
Luckily, Tom being Tom! Seemed oblivious to any notion of protection needed for the young ladies. All he was interested in was showing off the progress of his pride and joy - Sanditon!
It was fortunate too that Tom's lovely wife Mary had thought to make it an adventure for the whole family.
As she suggested that since it was a lovely day, the children could come too, and they could all walk to the beach after. Sandcastles and a picnic lunch were definitely on the agenda.
The proud peacock chest of Mr Sidney Parker was primed and ready.
Ready for protection. Whatever it took.
Yes.
https://www.battlemerchant.com/en/blog/shields-in-myths-from-aegis-to-svalinn
Yes, he realised now his friend Crowe must have been right.
For once!
Was he falling in love again? So soon?!
But SHE is nothing like Eliza. Nothing like Eliza was! She's kind. She's beautiful. She compassionate. Oh, but she's oh so stubborn and those eyes and lips of hers!
Oh what have I got myself into!
You must still be careful Parker. She's still a woman after all! Don't let her do what Eliza did to you!
Later at the construction site...
When Charlotte and Alison were walking with Tom Parker to the construction site, to say they were both getting bored, was an understatement! It was they Tom talked about HIS TOWN of Sanditon!
All Alison was interested in was looking at the shops and seeing if there were any suitable young men she could flirt with. Then got to the beach!
Charlotte had to keep an eye on her younger sister, especially when she caught the eye of Mr James Stringer.
Charlotte also noticed something else.
That a Mr Sidney Parker was walking next to her and Alison and his brother Tom. A chaperone she told herself at first.
But then she decided she liked his swagger, when he walked up and down the street with his cane. The way he tipped his hat and bowed to her sister and she.
His smile was so white and beaming. Charlotte didn't ever remember a man smile so much. Then again, she didn't remember a gentleman of the London or the Ton, being so animated!
Nor so protective it seemed. As soon as Mr James Stringer came down the balustrade to help Alison and her up to look above the town of Sanditon and see all the progress.
"Tom! It's much too dangerous for the Heywood sisters to go up there! Anything could happen!" Sidney looked at his brother Tom with fire in his eyes, then back at Charlotte and Young Stringer.
Tom waved his hand and cane at his younger brother.
"Nonsense Sidney! Young Stringer here has assured me it is safe and sound. And besides you and I are here also to ensure nothing happens!"
"Shall we ladies?!" As James Stringer offered his hand to Charlotte.
Instead, Sidney quickly stepped in to offer his hand and whispered to Charlotte. "Are you sure about this Charlotte?! I mean, I don’t wish to insult you and your sister, but this is quite different, to what you've recently experienced in London!"
"I mean Tom means well, but he can sometimes go on and on about his love of Sanditon, and well. I do want you and your sister to be welcomed here, but not at the expense of my brother."
Charlotte looked up into Sidney Parker's dark brown eyes. She could see he was being earnest, but she wasn't going to let his pride nad perhaps prejudice take over her mind. As much as liked to look at this Sidney Parker and he seemed very caring, she had made up her mind.
"Mr Sidney. Thank you for your honesty and your caring nature, but you must remember that Alison and I are farming daughters. We will be absolutely fine!"
"In fact, with your brother Tom, Mr Stringer and now your help, I'm well assured that both Alison and I shall be properly safe indeed!" Charlotte winked back at Sidney as he still held on to hand.
In fact, Charlotte wasn't willing to let go of Sidney hand just yet. Neither was he. They both felt this warmth, this electric surge go through their hands and then their arms.
Cough, cough!
"Um, Miss Heywoods, are you ready to climb up?!"
James Stringer caught sight of Sidney and Charlotte together and wasn't liking it. He had heard of the apparent rescue mission Sidney Parker and Crowe and Lord Babbington had carried out.
He had never liked the dandy Londoner of Sidney Parker too much,who was hardly ever in Sanditon. Why was he here now?
He had to put him from his mind. Now he had to concentrate on his work in front of Tom Parker and try to impress these beautiful young ladies!
Later at the ⛱️
After a near fall, when one of the balustrades had suddenly slipped...but fortunately for both Charlotte and Alison...both Young Stringer and Sidney Parker were there to save the day.
In fact, it was quite fortuitous that Charlotte just happened to fall in the arms of Sidney Parker. And Alison was helped by James.
More sparks and electricity was felt between Sidney and Charlotte. So much so, that witnesses on the street could see both Sidney and Charlotte blush profusely.
So once the parties were all safe and happy, off to the beach it was to play with the children.
As Charlotte and Sidney walked slowly together on the wet sand, any other witnesses, like a 🐝 perhaps could swear these two were courting!
They both seemed so sure of themselves in each other's company. The smiles were equal measure.
The banter also equal. The laughter coming from Sidney Parker was primed and his chest seemed high as an eagle. He seemed proud and in glory.
He was falling in love with Charlotte Heywood, but was he ready to fully admit it yet?
What about Charlotte herself? She knew she was also starting to feel something for this Sidney Parker. I mean he rescued her and Alison from Mary Carr's Forty Elephants. He takes her to his home town of Sanditon and he's handsome to boot too!
She had Alison to think of too and her family.
Only time will tell with these two love birds, but one thing we know is that this story isn't quite finished yet and one person is still after Sidney Parker.
Will Charlotte be able to save Sidney?
Notes:
You may notice the title of this chapter refers to protection.
Well, I thought it quite appropriate from Sidney’s POV, since he's already falling for Charlotte, and we both know they have a love of Greek Gods and philosophy.
I tried to copy of photo of an Aegis shield (I'm lazy and typing this on my phone!), so a link is inserted into the chapter instead! Gives you the history of Aegis and the Greek gods and fighting.
Chapter 12: Thunderbolt and Lightening, Very Very Frightening!
Summary:
The clash of the Titian's....or rather Sidney and Otis!
Self explanatory I think..
Notes:
Don't worry I don't think I've killed any of my characters in any of my stories, and I'm not about to kill off Sidney Parker! Also, we will get back to Sidlotte soon enough, but this story wasn't called Forty Elephants for nothing, now was it!
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Sidney was well aware by now Otis and Georgiana had sneakily arrived in Sanditon, and had set themselves up quietly at the Crowne.
His friends Crowe and Babbington had been keeping a watchful eye on the two of them for Sidney, whilst he was spending time with his family; and it was clear they were both up to something.
He knew they were trying to set up some crime gang or organisation in Sanditon.
And he wasn't having any of it!
Especially now that Charlotte Heywood was in his life.
Charlotte! The beautiful, animated, yet most stubborn woman he had ever met in his life before! He just couldn't get her out of his mind! Out of his sight! He had to protect her at all costs!
What Sidney was stunned at, was the audacity of Otis Molyneux and how he had brought a woman into the mix of all this! And into boxing as well!
It was bad enough, that he knew Otis well enough. He knew Otis well enough alright. Enough to know he was a crime fighting man. A gambler at all measures.
A boxer, in fact he was damn good one, Sidney would admit to that.
In fact, Otis was one of the first black pugilists he had seen in the new era of pugilism and gambling. Especially on the islands, where the slaves learnt how to defend themselves and get fit by boxing each other. Sidney had seen it first hand. That's where Sidney himself had learnt from the best.
The problem with Otis, was he was too much of a gambler and a risk taker. And he didn't know when to stop.
Until it was sometimes too late.
Unfortunately for Otis, he wasn't that tall.
Fortunately for Sidney, he was just over 6 feet tall and was able to often outmanoeuvre his opponents. Otis being one of them. Otis didn't like losing.
Not one little bit.
It had a been a full day of visiting with the Parker family at Trafalgar House. Sidney and his friends had taken pleasure in visiting Sidney's nieces and nephews, his sister-in-law Mary; and of course the lovely Heywood sisters, Charlotte and Alison.
Luckily Tom Parker was too busy to be seen at the house to disrupt the days outings. For once Sidney, Arthur and Diana Parker and even Mary, seemed happy and smiled all day, whilst they played with the children.
Sidney Parker was even witnessed it was said to put on a smile or two around Miss Charlotte Heywood. He was seen to offer his hand and arm quite frequently, when they walked along the beach again and along the clifftops. Whispers around town soon became frequent over the next two days, that perhaps Miss Charlotte Heywood and Sidney Parker were in fact courting?
Crowe didn't seem to mind, when he seemed to be quite endeared by Miss Alison.
However, their other friend Babbington seemed to be put out and left out of the romance battle! Surely he wasn't jealous?!
Later that night at the Crowne...
When Crowe, Babbingon and Sidney came downstairs from their rooms to walk across to Trafalgar House for invited dinner, Crowe noticed something.
A sign. Posted at the front entrance.
BOXING EVENT TONIGHT - COME SEE MISS GEORGIANA LAMBE - FIRST EVER FEMALE PUGILIST! AND OTIS MOLYNEUX
Come see Georgiana fight other females and come see Otis fight for the first time in Sanditon!
Presented by MOLYLAMBE ENTERPRISES
"What the hell Parker is this?!" Crowe whispered to his friend. "We knew they had quietly let themselves into town, but how did they get the Innkeeper to agree to this?!"
"Crowe! You've seen Parker fight here before, you're not surprised surely?!" Babbington looked at Crowe questioningly and up at Sidney for his answer.
"Yes, but I've never fought women before! He's never allowed women before! Otis can't do this, he must be stopped! This is a disgrace! You can't let women fight. I don't know or care who this Georgiana woman is, but she is not fighting here in Sanditon and that's final!" Sidney fumed with anger.
"It's a good thing Charlotte and her sister are not here to see this!"
"Aye, I agree with you on that Parker!"
"Let's go and find Otis and this Georgiana and put a stop to this now!"
Sidney stormed up to the innkeeper at the bar and asked where the two organisers were. The innkeeper pointed sheepishly to the stairs pointing downwards, knowing Sidney didn't look too happy.
As soon they got downstairs, the three men could hear the loud noises of laughter, and shouting and eruptions of cheers. They entered a room full of smoke, men drinking and men fighting and women too!
The three friends were shocked, to say the least. What was the new world coming to they thought!
Sidney straight away spied the Georgiana, but it was Otis he was after.
He saw him.
That was enough to stir the anger in Sidney. The memories of their fights back on Antigua flashing before his very eyes. Otis was a mean boxer and he had to be stopped.
"OTIS!!"
"Well, well! If it isn't Mr Sidney Parker! I was wondering when you come to see me! I'm nearly finished here. You ready to talk fair this time or another fight?"
"YOUR FIGHT IS OVER NOW OTIS! You will fight with me NOW and then this will all be over with and you and that Miss Lambe will leave Sanditon for good! You hear me?!"
"I hear you Mr Sidney Parker! But I won't be leaving Sanditon any time soon. The party is just beginning!"
This made Sidney even angrier than before and he clenched his jaw, fisted his hands at his side and rumbled to both Crowe and Babbington, "Get me ready men!"
Crowe and Babbington looked at each other. There was no use trying to change his mind, as they knew Sidney Parker all to well.
The Fight...
The fight between Sidney and Otis was messy, sweaty and bloody and money was being wagered all over the joint and town. Townsfolk who knew Sidney, bet on him straight away; but after seeing Otis beat 3 white men and 1 black man before Sidney, half the inn had changed their bets.
The fight was surely coming to and end, when both shirts were off. Sidney's lip had been cut to almost non visible (Sidney couldn't think there and then what Charlotte would think of him when she saw him tomorrow!) pulp, he had about 3 cuts on his forehead and at least 4 bruises to his upper chest.
But Otis appeared to bare the worst of the fight. His eye was bleeding badly. His knuckles were bruised and bleeding (so were Sidney's), he had lost 3 teeth; but he wasn't prepared yet to go down.
Another upper cut from Sidney to the chin and then a lower cut to the lower gut, and he kicked Otis leg out from under him, and then Sidney landed him another punch in the jaw and bamb! Otis fell flat on the ground!
It was then that Georgiana Lambe flew into the ring and screamed "Otis! Otis! Get up my love, get up!" As she fell to him on the ground....
Just then the referee pulled Georgiana off Otis and yelled at her, "I know you're a fighter too Miss, but this fight for men only, NO WOMEN ALLOWED. OUT NOW!"
So another referee and Crowe pulled her outside the ring, while she was still yelling, "Otis!, Otis!, Otis!!!!!!"
She was yelling and screaming and kicking her legs, but it was to no avail.
The referee declared Sidney Parker the winner!
And Otis Molyneux. Well, he wasn't dead. But he was pretty badly beaten up.
Enough to be beaten out of town?
Notes:
Title of this chapter, you may recall if from a song from Queen. Who knows which one?!
Chapter 13: Bruises and Tea
Summary:
Back to Sidlotte and some TLC...
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
When Mary and Charlotte first heard of the fight that Sidney had been in the night before, well Mary demanded that his friends Crowe and Babbington bring Sidney to Trafalgar House at once, so Mary could arrange for him to be cared for more suitably in her care.
Mary knew her brother-in-law well. He was her favourite brother after all.
She confided this with Charlotte and Alison the other day, but she hadn't told the two sister's that Sidney also liked to box from time to time!
But when Charlotte first saw Sidney’s appearance and all the bruises on his face, his eye and his hands.
Well, she was taken a back. Shock 😲 was more like it!
Then complete worry and fraught for this new man in her life!
But like the farmers daughter she was, Charlotte got straight to work and instructed Mary what herbs she needed for Sidney’s bruises and how to make a tea and soup.
Once Charlotte got the necessary herbs hyssop, which was excellent for calming bruises topically and in tea, Charlotte got to work right away.
Laying in his room upstairs in Trafalgar House, with Alison helping and brother coming in and out with buttered toast, Sidney felt he needed a rest and a break from all these people.
But he wanted Charlotte to remain, of course!
How can I do this without a chaperone? Mary or Alison will need to be here or outside?
He thought for a moment and an idea came to him.
"Miss Charlotte and Miss Alison. I am getting quite tired now. I think I need to rest now. Thank you both for your care. Um, Miss Alison, I was wondering if you may bring me some more of that lovely tea your sister made?"
Alison looked at Charlotte mischievously.
"Yes of course Mr Parker, I'll be back shortly with some tea. Charlotte, do you need any more wet hyssop for Mr Parker bruises?"
"Um, yes please Alison. A few more won't hurt. Thank you."
Charlotte blushed at her sister.
When the room was clear, Charlotte sharply looked at Sidney and glared at him.
"What were you thinking Sidney Parker?! Boxing! Fighting with that man! And I hear that Georgiana was fighting again too!"
"Sidney! You could have been killed!"
"But I wasn't Charlotte!"
"But you could have! I have only just met you and I could have lost you already! Mary told me you boxed occasionally, but I had no idea it was that bad! Georgiana didn't end up like that the other night!"
Charlotte blurted out her anger and worry all at the same time.
"You didn't lose me Charlotte! I wasn't going to lose! Not against Otis Molyneux! I didn't realise you cared so much Charlotte?!" Sidney winked at her, making his eye and jaw ache.
"Of course I care! You! You selfish man, you!" She was blushing a pretty pink and he liked it!
"Come now Charlotte!! I don’t do this boxing all the time. But I had to run that Otis Molyneux and his lover Georgiana Lambe out of Sanditon quick smart!"
"They were trying to establish an underground boxing establishment here, and I wasn't going to let that happen."
"Nor could I let my older brother Tom become embroiled in their shenanigans."
"Enough of them. I want to know more about us!"
"It seems you do care about me after all. It's plain to see how much care you have taken with my bruises and all. I am very grateful to you Charlotte and very pleased and happy to be in your company once again!"
"And I must confess, I am sometimes lost for words when in your company, but today...well maybe it's the herbs you have given me, but I feel like i can tell you anything right now!"
"And right now Charlotte, I have to tell you before your sister returns - is that I too care for you. Very much so!"
"In fact, I would dearly love to kiss you again right now!" Sidney blushed.
Charlotte blushed too another pretty in pink.
"You would, would you Mr Parker?!"
"I would indeed Miss Heywood!"
"But I think before I do, I may have to get proper permission from your father to officially court you?"
"What say you Charlotte?!"
"I'd say I will have to write to my father then!"
"Well then!"
"Well then!"
The young couple didn't kiss there qnd then, but Sidney took both Charlotte's hands with the promise of a future of love and happiness.
Notes:
1 more chapters to go before complete!
Chapter 14: Happiness and a Future
Summary:
The final chapter and the finale....all Sidlotte ❤️😍❤️😍
❤️ NOW COMPLETE!❤️
Notes:
Thank you for reading and sticking with me on this journey.
I won't be writing any long or short stories for a while. I need a break as I have personal stuff going on at home. Not just me, but my dad is not well.
I will probably post one off poems though, as you know I still love to write!
Once again, thanks again for all your continued support.
Cheers
JazzyOz 🌻
Chapter Text
6 Months Later...
In the six months, since both Charlotte and Sidney had met in London, it had been a whirlwind of romance, courting, country balls in Willingden and Sanditon, London balls, meeting both families; Sanditon Regatta's and much, much more!
And Sidney finally getting the approval from Papa Heywood to marry his Charlotte!
The wedding was beautiful. Of course it was!
And it wasn't held in Sanditon, much to the dismay of Tom Parker!
It was held in the Parish church in Willingden, and the whole village turned out to see their darling Charlotte get married to a dandy Londoner!
The wedding breakfast and cake organised by Mrs Heywood, was tasteful and classic for a country village.
Sidney felt warmly welcomed by the people of Willingden, but most importantly by his new family, the Heywoods.
It had been a long time since Sidney had talked to an older man, like Charlotte's father. After his own father's passing over 10 years ago, it had been hard some years
But Mr Heywood had welcomed Sidney not just as a son-in-law, but like a son too. This was something that Sidney will never forget, and over the years the bond between both men grew to be strong indeed.
Two weeks after the much anticipated wedding of Willingden and the year, Sidney took his new bride to the Continent for their wedding tour.
Charlotte was in awe of everything she saw and tasted.
Sidney knew Charlotte had always wanted to travel. This was now her chance and he was going to make sure she enjoyed every minute of it.
During this month tour, they visited France, Italy, Germany, Portugal, Spain, Greece and Switzerland. During this tour the couple's love for each other grew stronger and stronger every day.
Sidney promised he would take Charlotte to visit Egypt, Turkey and Gordon on their next trip!
That next trip would have to wait a little longer however, when the the loved up couple discovered a few weeks after their return to Sanditon, that Charlotte was with child.
Yes! She was pregnant with her first baby!
Charlotte and Sidney would happily go on to have six children during their happy long marriage.
They also happily had 5 grandchildren, by the time Sidney’s hair was beginning to show some grey salt n pepper shaken in!
It was well known in the village of Willingden and seaside town of Sanditon, that Mr Sidney and Mrs Charlotte Parker, were generous with their time and giving back to the community.
This was done by way of the Annual Regatta in Sanditon, or the Annual Cricket Match in Willingden; which included women players too. All monies raised, went back to the churches, the farmers or workers in the shops.
Now if you're asking whatever happened to Mr Thomas Parker? And Arthur too?
It was said that Tom Parker became quite jealous of his younger brother, Sidney. Why indeed! Why should Sidney get all the accolades, when he himself was the Pioneer of Sanditon?! To this day, Tom still never understood why. He also never understood why Sidney didn't marry the widowed darling Eliza Campion! 🙄
As for Arthur Parker. He still enjoyed eating his buttered 🧈 toast and once in a while falling off a horse 🐎 on Sanditon beach!
THE END!
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