Chapter Text
Two weeks until the Sanditon Charity Christmas Dinner
The chitter chatter on the open plan office floor was abruptly silenced as the conference room door burst open with such force, it was like a seismic wave had shaken the building. But this wasn’t an earthquake. This was Charlotte Heywood catapulting out of a meeting, accompanied by a big dark cloud of angry. She strode past the various onlookers and headed straight for the ladies, averting her gaze to the floor as she was fully aware there were tears in her eyes. Thankfully, when she got to the loos, they appeared unoccupied. She slammed down her armful of papers on the side and let out a half scream/half growl which sounded like the cry of a wild animal.
Charlotte splashed some water on her face and took some deep breaths to calm her racing heart, unsure of what was happening to her. She had never been an angry person, but she was struggling to gain control of her emotions. She wasn’t sure she could work like this for much longer…
It had been six weeks since Charlotte, an Events Consultant, had first started working with Parker Enterprises LLP, a prominent real estate business, to help organise the firm’s most important event of the year: the annual Charity Christmas Dinner. The event would see all of Sanditon’s business leaders come together to raise money for local charities. It had been a tradition going back years, but the last couple of events had fallen rather flat. Hence, Charlotte had been hired to revamp the event in the hope of making it a greater success.
Generally considered to be personable and affable, Charlotte had started to form good working relationships with some of the employees at Parker Enterprises LLP, who all thought she was charming and fun. However, there was one person that she could never seem to get along with, and unfortunately, he happened to be one of the partners of the family run business: Sidney Parker, the Finance Director. Their relationship was doomed from the start, as on her very first day, he had mistaken her for a work experience student, and it had all gone downhill from there. He seemed to find fault in everything she said and did, and today was no different.
The task of organising the Charity Christmas Dinner was no mean feat. The problem was that all of Charlotte’s ideas kept being shot down by Sidney, and at first, she wasn’t sure why. As time went on, however, it became more and more apparent that the reason Sidney objected to Charlotte’s ideas was because he disliked the festive season in general. He took issue with the theme (the Snow Queen), the decorations, the entertainment, the food… you name it, he had a problem with it! He was the ultimate Scrooge, and every time he spoke, Charlotte could hear the “Bah Humbug!” in the tone of his voice.
Thankfully, Tom Parker, Sidney’s older brother and Managing Director of the firm, thought Charlotte’s ideas were marvellous, even if he did sometimes pass them off as his own. And given his senior position, Tom would often overrule his brother such that Charlotte was granted permission to put most of her ideas into effect. This displeased Sidney even more, and he would often leave the meetings early muttering under his breath as he left. Charlotte never heard what he said, but she suspected it was about her, because it was very clear that Sidney not only disliked her ideas, but her as well. Given the animosity between them, Charlotte tried to set up meetings with just Tom, but inevitably she couldn’t avoid Sidney altogether. Like today, for example, because Charlotte had come to see Tom to update him on the guestlist and silent auction prizes. Unfortunately, however, Charlotte had met Sidney in the corridor on the way there. What followed was an uncomfortable encounter with eye rolls, huffing and grunts all of which made it abundantly clear that Sidney thought very little of her. He then insisted that he come to the meeting… and as you can guess, an argument ensued.
[Sidney] “Why wasn’t my presence requested at this meeting? As a partner of this firm, I should be privy to these things…”
[Charlotte] “We are only discussing the guest list and silent auction. I didn’t think it would be of particular interest seeing as you left the last meeting early when we were discussing the invitations.”
[Sidney] “Always full of assumptions, Charlotte…”
[Charlotte] “All fair assumptions, I think, given all the objections you have had to date. In fact, I don’t think there has been one of my ideas that you haven’t taken issue with. I’m beginning to think you are determined to make my job as difficult as possible.”
[Sidney] “Perhaps I am making sure that we are getting our money’s worth from you, given the hefty day rate you charge.”
[Charlotte] “I am giving you a 10% discount!”
[Sidney] “It is still an expense we have never had to make before…”
[Charlotte] “And look what happened last year without my assistance. I am here to try and make your event succeed, Sidney. I wish you would work with me and not against me.”
[Sidney] “I am not working against you.”
[Charlotte] “Yes, you are! It’s Christmas and you do not even want fairy lights! It’s almost like you cannot bear the thought of anyone enjoying the festive season!”
[Sidney] “Do not presume to know my mind, Charlotte.”
[Charlotte] “How can anyone know your mind when you object to almost everything? What is it exactly that you want from this event? I mean… it’s a Christmas dinner… there ought to be something vaguely Christmassy about it.”
[Sidney] “I am well aware it is a Christmas dinner, thank you, there is no need to take that tone with me.”
[Charlotte] “Excuse me? I believe you are the one who always talks down to me...”
[Cue bumbling Tom stepping in to try and pacify things.]
[Charlotte] “I’m sorry, Tom, but it’s clear that your brother does not want me here. I can’t work like this any longer… ”
[Cue Charlotte storming out of the room.]
Taking a deep breath, Charlotte looked up into the mirror and said to herself, “Get it together, Heywood! Don’t give him the satisfaction of seeing you like this.”
Charlotte grabbed some paper towels to dry her face, a million thoughts in her head. It had been wonderful to secure this job as the Charity Christmas Dinner was the most high-profile event of the season in Sanditon. The achievement was even greater because her business was still in its first year of trading. It had been such a gamble to start out on her own, and Charlotte knew if she could have this event on her CV, it would open further opportunities for her. But after that argument, it looked like it was the end of the road.
The door of the ladies opened as Charlotte was in the middle of her pep talk and she hastily silenced herself.
“Charlotte? Are you OK?” asked the voice of her friend and flatmate, Esther, who came up behind her. It was Esther that recommended Charlotte for the job.
“No, Esther, I am not OK! I’ve had enough. I cannot work with that man any longer,” Charlotte replied, looking at her friend through the mirror.
“Sidney?”
“Who else?” Charlotte replied, turning around and taking a deep sigh.
“What did he say?”
“He wants to get rid of me.” Tears sprung to Charlotte’s eyes again, but she swallowed them back.
“Charlotte, I’m sure that’s not true,” said Esther.
“Then why is he always so… so irritated by me? The eye rolling, the frowning and huffing whenever a word comes out of my mouth… It’s obvious, he can’t stand to be around me!”
“Sidney’s always irritable with everyone, I wouldn’t take it personally.”
Charlotte shook her head. “No, he’s not,” she maintained, and then sighed heavily. “This isn’t working anymore. Perhaps I should bow out.”
“What? No, you can’t do that! Not with only two weeks to go. We need you.”
“That’s not what Sidney thinks.”
“You mustn’t let him get to you. Sidney is…” Esther began, but then held her tongue.
“Is what?”
“It’s just… well… complicated.”
Charlotte rolled her eyes. “Yeah… complicated. I don’t know, Esther. I’ve never had a client like this before. I mean, even the bridezillas were easier than him! Well… except perhaps the one who wanted the aisle-river from Crazy Rich Asians.”
Esther smirked and pursed her lips to try and stop a giggle, but the more she tried, the harder it became, and then she couldn’t help herself. Her giggle was infectious and made Charlotte smile. “It’s not funny, Esther!” Charlotte insisted while trying to keep a straight face.
“It’s a little bit funny. Come on, look on the bright side. Tom likes you and your ideas, as well as everyone else! And even if you do have to put up with Sidney, it’s only for another two weeks…”
Charlotte considered Esther’s words. “Yes, you’re right. I can do two more weeks.”
“Good, because quite frankly if you quit now, this event is going to go down the pan. And Sidney knows that… at least deep down.”
Charlotte took another deep breath. “OK. I better go back in there and sort this out, although I don’t fancy walking past everyone again,” she said
“I wouldn’t worry about it, most of us have been at the tail end of Sidney’s wrath. Which is why you really don’t need to take it personally.”
“Alright. Thanks for the support,” Charlotte said.
Esther embraced her in a hug. “Hey, what are friends for?”
The friends separated. Charlotte had a look in the mirror to check her make up. Thank goodness for waterproof mascara! Satisfied she still looked respectable, she picked up her folder of papers and went back out to the office floor, Esther trailing behind her. She could feel the eyes of all the staff on her and it made her feel self-conscious. Who was she kidding? She wanted this job, despite the fact she had to put up with Sidney. And Charlotte was no quitter. She needed to see this through. But if she was going to stay, she had one condition that needed to be met.
Esther went to find her desk as Charlotte proceeded to the meeting room. She could hear Sidney and Tom having a heated debate inside the room. She knocked loudly on the door before re-entering which silenced their voices.
“Ah, Charlotte. You came back!” Tom said, a look of huge relief on his face. Sidney, on the other hand, was looking murderous, but she was not about to be intimidated by him. She tried to avoid his gaze and focus on Tom.
“Yes, I did,” she responded.
“Good, because… you know… we all very much want you to keep on doing the… the excellent work you are doing to make this event the best it has ever been. Don’t we Sidney?” stuttered Tom.
Charlotte looked over to Sidney. He still had a very dark look about him, and even though it was clear he was very displeased, it was also, dare she even think it, rather sexy. Yes, she thought it, but very quickly she dismissed it. She readied herself to whatever Sidney was about to say. He cleared his throat and forced a smile.
“There, you see. So… can we press on with today’s business?” Tom said, finding his seat.
“Actually, Tom, I don’t think matters are quite resolved yet,” said Charlotte.
“Oh, they are not?” said Tom, faltering, his palms visibly sweaty.
“No. I am prepared to keep working on the Charity Dinner… but only if your brother agrees to engage with me in a more constructive manner,” Charlotte said boldly. She knew she was pushing her luck, but she was not prepared to endure more of the same of Sidney’s behaviour over the next two weeks.
“For God’s sake…” Sidney began.
“He will agree to anything you ask,” Tom hastily interrupted.
“Tom!” Sidney hissed.
“Sidney, the reputation of this firm depends on the success of this event. Charlotte is integral to that success. We cannot do this without her. And you know, it wouldn’t hurt for you to be a little more… cooperative,” implored Tom with a hint of desperation.
If looks could kill, Sidney was now giving them both one. “Fine,” he conceded through gritted teeth.
“Thank you. Now, let’s shake hands and be done with it,” said Tom. Charlotte thought this was a step too far, but before she could protest, Sidney had walked up to her and extended a hand.
Charlotte looked at it uncertainly. Then, hesitantly took his hand.
It was the briefest of handshakes, but as soon as Charlotte took his hand, Sidney felt it: A strong bolt of electricity pulsating through his body. He had felt it the first time they had shaken hands, and, if he was honest, he had wanted to feel it again. It made him feel… alive for the first time in two years. And that scared him. Because Sidney had been here before: bewitched by the charms of a beautiful women, and that woman had ended up tearing out his heart and trampling on it. He would not let that happen again. And besides, Charlotte Heywood was stubborn and opinionated… and perceptive. And that was the problem. Sidney knew, if given the chance, she would see right through him. She had already begun to suss him out, and he was not prepared to let her because he was quite happy with the concrete walls he had built around himself.
Charlotte hastily let go of Sidney’s hand. A deep frown crossed her brow, and it made Sidney wonder if she had felt it too… before he realised, he shouldn’t care.
“So, the guest list,” Charlotte said, returning her attention to Tom and taking a seat opposite him. “I’m delighted to report that the Town Mayor, Lady Susan Worcester, and her entourage has accepted our invitation.”
“This is splendid news, Charlotte! If Lady Worcester is coming, then I am certain that many others will follow,” Tom remarked.
“They already have! I’ve received confirmation from the leader of the Sanditon Chamber of Commerce, along with representatives from three local law firms,” Charlotte confirmed.
“Fantastic! This line up is already looking 100 times better than last year. So where does that leave us with numbers?” said Tom.
“We currently have 234 confirmed attendees, so we are nearly at capacity.”
“Nice work. And what about the silent auction prizes?” Tom asked.
“Well,” said Charlotte leaning closer to him. Sidney continued to observe her closely, unable to stop himself from being intrigued by her. “I’ve managed to secure Sanditon Eagles tickets; dinner for two at the Sea Shanty Restaurant; a 65-inch Samsung TV; and, my personal favourite, a luxurious spa package for two, including dinner and an overnight stay at the Sanditon Hotel! We have about 20 items for people to bid on. Plus, we also have the raffle with lots of smaller prizes to give away. Hopefully we’ll make lots of money for charity.”
“I have no doubt. Last year we made nearly £10,000!”
“Oh, we can at least doubt that!” Charlotte exclaimed.
Sidney scoffed at her remark, but quickly turned it into a cough when she glared at him. He knew these people, and Charlotte did not. It had been a hard year for business, what with the pandemic, and it was very unlikely that such a sum would be achieved. Still, he supposed her aspirations for the event was admirable, even if unrealistic.
Sidney sat down on a chair a decent distance away from Charlotte and got out his phone to check his emails as Tom and Charlotte continued to discuss other things. He did not participate in the discussion, but he was listening to what was being said. It appeared all was in hand, even he thought the theme was ridiculous. What was one supposed to wear to a Snow Queen themed dinner? All the glitter and sparkle was certainly not his cup of tea and he doubted it would be anyone else’s either. This was a business dinner, not a school prom. He had tried to argue this countless times, but it had just fallen on deaf ears.
After about ten minutes or so, Tom said, “Well, it certainly seems like all is going to plan. Not that I had any doubt! Shall we fix up a meeting for next week?”
“Actually, the caterers have invited us to sample the menu next Friday and I wondered if you wanted to come along?” Charlotte said.
“Ah… let me check my calendar,” Tom said, taking out his phone. “Darn it, I have meetings nearly all day. Sidney, could you go?”
Sidney looked up from his phone. “Me?”
“Yes. Someone from the firm should go. We are the hosts after all.”
“Can’t Arthur go instead?” Sidney pleaded.
“Arthur will be in the meetings with me.” Sidney sighed heavily. It was the very last thing he wanted to spend his time doing. “Please, Sidney. You wanted to be more involved in this event. Now’s your chance,” Tom added. Sidney was not impressed that his words were now coming back to bite him. It meant he was hardly able to refuse.
“Fine. Where and when?” he said in defeat, looking over to Charlotte. She looked even less impressed than him by the idea.
“The Salutation Inn at 3pm,” she confirmed.
“I’ll be there,” Sidney said, standing from his seat and making his way to the door. “Until next week then,” he added as he opened the door and walked out, closing it behind him, all the time wondering what he was getting himself into…