The Seaside Affair: The Venturous Hearts

Chapter One

Mourning’s End

Beth stood at the end of her bed, clad in her white petticoat, chilled from the crisp morning air that permeated her bedroom. Goose pimples rose on her arms. The evening’s fire had been extinguished from the night before. With a quick rub of her hands together, Beth shooed away the shivers. A rush of enthusiasm curled her lips as she gazed at the day dress lying on her neatly made bed. The sage-colored garment looked subdued but so much brighter than her former attire. No longer would she have to wear the black paramatta silk she had donned for the past year. The time for mourning had ended, but memories remained fresh in her mind as if it were yesterday.

It was a brisk April morning in the church graveyard a year ago when she said goodbye to her mother. The gusty wind swirled around the tombstones like flying ghosts, causing her skirt to billow. Her gloved left hand clung to her small leather-bound prayer book while the other held a clod of earth in her palm. Beth bit her lower lip, remembering how she had done so during the funeral to suppress her tears. Even though her heart ached, she endured and kept her emotions contained. Her father would have been proud since his voice echoed in her head not to show weakness in public. He, too, had passed away, and Beth endeavored to be steadfast and unmoved by life’s unsettling events.

The vicar’s voice replayed in her mind. We commit Catherine Edwards’s body to the ground, earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust, in the sure and certain hope of the resurrection to eternal life through our Lord Jesus Christ.

The time to mourn had ended. Although the subtle grief of losing one’s parent lingered, Beth vowed to return to more pleasurable pursuits in life. Today a smile replaced the grief-stricken expression of loss. The social protocol had been satisfied, and Beth could sigh in relief.

Whoever had written the communal conventions of bereavement had morbidly bound throngs of individuals in a dark aura of endless sorrow. Even her mother believed that three months for the death of a parent seemed far more reasonable than one year. Poor widows who lost spouses had to wear black for two. Perhaps it had been a cruel etiquette set up by greedy dressmakers, profiting off grief to make a lucrative business for themselves.

Nevertheless, since Beth’s aunt and uncle were staunch proponents of propriety, she had observed the long year in honor of her mother’s passing.

Beth, are you ready? Francis’s voice boomed up the stairs, sounding like their deceased authoritative father, expelling frustration. She swore that her brother grew more like him each year, taking on his characteristics, whether it be voice or mannerisms.

Give me a few more minutes, Francis, she yelled, grabbing the garment and dressing hastily. Thankfully, it still fit as Beth’s bodily stature had not altered during the year. A minute later, an anxious knock came at her door.

Beth, the carriage is waiting outdoors, and they have loaded our bags, Francis announced in an exasperated complaint.

Beth tied the ribbon of her bonnet, grabbed her reticule, and opened the door.

An ounce of patience, Francis, goes a long way, she scolded, pushing past him and descending the stairs.

My, you look so bright and cheerful. Francis eyed her.

Yes, at last, I can wear color. With my fair complexion, I looked like a stick of chalk in black.

Francis bolted the door behind them and strode swiftly to the carriage. They climbed inside, and after closing the door with a bang, Francis knit his brows together. When the horses began their trot, Beth gave him a piece of her mind.

Honestly, Francis, she protested. I could have made this trip alone if it upsets you so much.

Do you actually suppose that, as your older brother, I would allow you to do so?

I understand your concern for me. Beth attempted to remain civil. Let us not quarrel. I often feel like we are two dogs constantly nipping at each other.

As do I. He tempered his tone. My only request is that you understand and accept my concern. Since Mother and Father have passed, the responsibility for your well-being rests upon me. He sighed as if his task were a significant burden.

Aware that Francis suffered from a controlling personality, Beth attempted to allay her irritation with a bit of humor.

Just loosen the leash a bit. Beth put her fingers underneath her collar and tugged on it. You know how I jerk when restrained, she said with a sly smile.

How well I know, sister.

Francis shook his head, leaned back in the seat, and glanced at the passing scenery. They had spent their entire lives in Dunwich, a small village an hour southeast of London. Beth and Francis had rarely left on any occasion except to visit their aunts, uncles, and cousins who lived in another village, accessible by a thirty-minute coach ride. Their family was extensive, with their mother having one sibling and their father six. Each married, having their share of children, giving Beth and Francis multiple cousins.

Beth’s father had been a gentleman, having purchased a small country estate from the profits of a successful watch-and-clock-making business. Francis had learned the trade as a junior apprentice and continued to run the establishment upon their father’s death. As a perfectionist, Francis focused on his craft with the same serious intent as his father.

Beth silently observed Francis pondering their dissimilarities as the carriage bounced over the road’s potholes left behind by the harsh winter. Even though they were siblings, they were opposites in personality and appearance. Francis had taken on their father’s characteristics of dark hair and brown eyes. In contrast, Beth had her mother’s fair complexion and golden locks. While her skin burned in the sun’s heat, Francis bronzed easily. She envied him that he had only to hide under a hat while she had to take cover under a parasol or large-brimmed bonnet to avoid the bright sun rays.

As she contemplated their differences, he returned his attention to her, noting her intense stare with displeasure.

I am still unclear why you insisted on writing the Wilsons about Mother’s demise, he remarked with annoyance.

Our mother corresponded with the couple for over twenty years; that is why. They had discussed the matter repeatedly beforehand, so it exasperated Beth that Francis decided to resurrect the question once more. I will admit that I do not understand Mother’s relationship with the Wilsons, Beth said. Only that they showed her kindness when she was young and lived in Aycliffe.

What could they possibly correspond about for so long?

Mother read a few portions of the letters to me. They contained tidbits about Aycliffe, people she once knew, and the weather. Beth contemplated the oddity of the ongoing correspondence.

Did Mother keep them? I would be curious to read them, frankly, to understand this strange friendship better.

It was odd that I did not find them among her things after her passing, Francis. I can only assume that she discarded each letter after reading it. Beth did think it bizarre. If the Wilsons had been such dear friends, you would think her mother would have kept a few letters as keepsakes.

Francis cocked his head and looked at her in disbelief. Peculiar indeed, which is why I am uncomfortable that we have accepted this invitation. Neither of us knows anything about the Wilsons.

True, but Mother held a fondness in her heart for them. Their invitation shows respect for her memory, and I did not wish to refuse. Beth lifted her chin, showing her determination to proceed regardless of Francis’s doubts.

Yes, that is one of your faults. The inability to say no. You’re too affable, even to strangers.

It’s my nature. Beth shifted in her seat, intent on defending one of her good qualities.

What I don’t understand, her brother said, continuing to balk, is why Mother never returned to Aycliffe if these people were so dear to her.

She told me Father would not allow it because he hated the dampness of the sea air. Though I will admit, I always noticed a bit of animosity rise between them whenever Aycliffe came into the conversation.

I, too, Francis admitted. Well, at least we will finally gaze at the ocean since Father had no desire to holiday at a seaside resort. Frankly, it’s the only reason I agreed to accompany you. Who knows, I may try my hand at deep-sea fishing.

Deep-sea fishing? Beth gasped in surprise. I daresay you should fish for a nice young lady instead.

It’s been on my mind to seek a wife, he mumbled. Francis averted Beth’s gaze as if it embarrassed him to admit it.

Beth grinned, hearing Francis’s surprising statement. He had barely spoken about female companionship, even though he had entered his prime as a young man. Unfortunately, Francis had taken on too many responsibilities since their parents’ death. Of course, the thought of matrimony entered Beth’s mind also. Now one and twenty, she did not want to be a burden to her sibling any longer. It would be unfair to rely on his care indefinitely. Although Francis attempted to control her every move, now that she was of age, she could seek a future husband.

And what about me? May I search for a companion, or shall your watchful eye prevent me from obtaining an ounce of affection beyond the confines of Dunwich? Beth coyly teased.

Francis pulled his mouth to one side and eyed Beth with amusement. I will admit it is about time you found yourself a husband. If the opportunity presents itself, I shall gladly hand over the leash to another man that I approve.

Beth rolled her eyes. Women are not meant to be kept on a leash, brother, she asserted with pursed lips.

Well, I beg to differ with you but shan’t make it a point of contention between us. Besides, I have little concern that you shall fall in love with anyone within a fortnight.

Francis resumed his interest in the scenery, and Beth settled into a comfortable position. Their travels by coach would be for at least three hours. The only history Beth knew of her mother’s trips to Aycliffe came from occasional remarks. As a young woman, she had been a governess in the household of a prestigious family. Oddly, her mother spoke little of the experience except to reminisce about her love of the ocean. Beth recalled her mother’s eyes filled with a mixture of sweetness and sorrow whenever she spoke of the past. Perhaps their visit to the Wilsons would provide insight into her early life. As much as she loved her mother, there were times that Beth wished they had been closer.

Do you think Mother loved Father? Francis inquired, turning his attention to Beth. His brow furrowed, showing his seriousness. The prying question caught her off guard.

Mother was fond of Father, of that I’m sure, Beth spoke harshly, not wishing for a lengthy discussion about their affections.

That’s not what I asked. Francis leaned forward, pressing the matter further.

Uneasy that he insisted on continuing the conversation, Beth fiddled with her skirt as she thought about the past. She had never observed a cross word spoken between her parents. Father doted upon their mother, and Beth perceived that she admired him in return. Love had been displayed through their actions in how they treated one another. Although physical affection had not been readily observed between the two. Naturally, she attributed that to her father’s character and not as an indication that he did not love her dearly.

Since I am not an expert on marital love or behavior, I find the question difficult to answer. Nonetheless, their kindness toward one another has never led me to assume otherwise. Surely Mama loved our father.

Francis listened to her explanation. He acted agitated, glancing momentarily out the window. With a sigh, he leaned back into his seat.

Father didn’t seem to feel that she loved him with the same ardor, he divulged.

Aghast at his remark, Beth objected. What are you talking about? Did he express such opinions to you?

Not in so many words, Francis solemnly answered. Perhaps I formed the wrong notion by some of his statements. Nevertheless, it caused me to question Mother’s sincerity.

How could you question her sincerity? Beth demanded. That is an awful assumption to make on your part.

Francis lowered his head and dropped his shoulders. Beth thought he regretted his words, so she dismissed the distressing insinuation. They are both gone now. The reminder of their loss resurrected a pang of grief. The black dress had been put away, but sadness over her mother’s untimely death lingered. No matter, she added. They are together now in eternity. There is no value in speculating about their affections or lack thereof. Do you agree?

Francis remained speculative, glancing out the window. A few moments later, he answered. Perhaps you are right. Forgive me for bringing it up. Besides, what do I know of love? He flashed a lopsided grin.

Nothing. We are inexperienced in such matters, but perhaps that will change one day.

The carriage rocked as they traveled the country roads, lulling Beth into a sleepy state of mind. She closed her eyes and forgot the heartache, hoping to wake up at the sight of the ocean.

Chapter Two

Shrouded in Fog

Beth woke at the jolt of a carriage and opened her eyes. After hours of travel, the horses trotted on a trail along the cliff. To her disappointment, rather than seeing the ocean for the first time, the landscape lay shrouded in fog.

Shame it obscures the view, her brother remarked. He reached over and pulled down the window, and a burst of moist, cool air filled the coach.

Refreshing, she remarked, sniffing the welcoming aroma. After a chill entered, she blurted. Although a bit chilly. Close the window, Francis.

He obliged and sat back in the seat. It’s getting late, so I doubt we’ll see much scenery. Let’s hope it burns off in the morning, and we can visit the beach.

Will you sea bathe? Beth asked, curious to know if he would partake.

In that cold water? I would rather not, he harshly remarked with a scowl. If it were the middle of summer, I might consider it.

I hear that cold is good for you. Perhaps they have those bathing machines for the ladies. Beth wondered aloud.

If you insist on it, as long as you cover from head to toe, I do not care if you freeze. Francis smirked.

Yes, God forbid I reveal an ankle or elbow for a man to see, she said with a snicker. I’ll be the talk of the town.

The carriage descended from the hilltop into the city that lined the shoreline. The fog remained thick as potage, obscuring the view. The horses slowed their gait as they trotted down the main town thoroughfare. Small quaint shops lined the roadway, from clothing and housewares to seaside trinkets. They passed the bank and hotel, and Beth noted few people on the streets.

There don’t seem to be many individuals outdoors, Francis remarked, noting the lack of persons.

Well, it’s off-season and late in the day. Perhaps more tourists come during the summer for a holiday. With this weather, I’m certain the climate draws no one of importance. Beth assumed the seaside resort held the popularity her mother noted in passing. Now it appeared abandoned and solitary.

The carriage turned to the right and traveled a quarter of a mile, halting at their destination. A flutter of apprehension tickled Beth’s stomach. She had no idea what kind of people the Wilsons were but hoped they were pleasant based on her mother’s unceasing intention to keep in touch.

When the coach door opened, Francis exited and offered his hand to Beth. The driver untied their suitcases and trunk from the back. Even though everything around them lay cloaked in a misty gray cloud, the house emerged in all its grandeur. It rose three stories with a distinctive tower off to the right and a dormer to the left. Arch windows accented the facade, covered in lace curtains. A stained-glass window highlighted the front oak doors.

How lovely. Beth sighed, turning toward Francis. He stood silently, admiring the architectural delight, which made their aging residence in Dunwich dull in comparison.

Remarkable design, he pronounced.

Suddenly, the front door flung open. Beth observed a woman approaching, with a man not far behind. No doubt the Wilsons were about to descend upon them in greeting.

It didn’t take long to confirm Beth’s initial impression. She surmised the couple to be in their late forties based on her mother’s stories of meeting them when she was yet but twenty and close in age. A plump, red-faced lady approached Beth, gasping in delight as if the few steps had overtaxed her heart.

My dear, dear Elizabeth. I’m astounded at how much you look like your mother!

Beth thought her facial features resembled her mother’s. Nevertheless, she never considered it a close likeness except for their complexion and light hair.

I think we have the same nose and lips, but other than that, I’m shorter than Mama. Beth made light of the comparison.

Believe me when I say the similarities to Catherine at her young age are astounding, Mrs. Wilson repeated. Her eyes roved up and down her frame, smiling approvingly.

Miss Edwards. Mr. Wilson greeted Beth with a quick bow of the head. Welcome to Aycliffe.

And this is your brother, I surmise, Mrs. Wilson said, moving in front of Francis. My, my, a handsome gentleman. You must take after your father, although I do see Catherine’s eyes.

Pleasure to meet you, ma’am, Francis said. He removed his hat and held it by the brim.

Welcome, young man. Mr. Wilson held out his hand, and Francis gave it a hearty shake.

Now come indoors out of this dreary fog, Mrs. Wilson excitedly encouraged. I had hoped you would arrive on a sunny day, but the ocean appears to have other plans. It is very unpredictable, somewhat like life.

It is just the warm air blowing over the chilly water that causes the fog, Mr. Wilson interjected, glancing sideways at his wife. He grinned sardonically. You’ll discover that Mrs. Wilson is prone to adding life lessons in every movement of nature.

Beth and Francis glimpsed at one another and followed the couple indoors. A male servant collected their luggage and set them in the foyer.

Wilford, take those upstairs to the bedrooms we have assigned for our guests. Mrs. Wilson gave a stern order, wiggling her chubby finger at the servant.

Yes, ma’am. He grabbed two suitcases and climbed the stairs.

Beth admired the interior, suppressing a giddy grin at its decor. On the other hand, Francis had no qualms about stating the obvious.

You have a very fine home, Mr. and Mrs. Wilson. You must be proud, he commented. Francis glanced around, observing the furnishings.

It’s drafty, Mr. Wilson remarked with a smirk.

No, it’s comfortable, his wife countered. Come, dears, sit by the fire and have tea while we get to know one another.

Curious but somewhat exhausted from the trip, the idea of a hot cup of tea led Beth forward with eagerness. They entered a high-ceilinged parlor. The intricate lace curtains caught Beth’s fancy along with the velvet settee in a deep purple. The muted green and plum color scheme permeated the room, giving it an arboretum atmosphere. A tall plant, the likes of which Beth had never seen, stood in the corner.

My goodness, Beth exclaimed, walking over to it. What is that?

That, my dear, is a cataractarum palm, which is native to Mexico. It makes handsome indoor foliage and is becoming popular in England. You only need to water it every five days, and it seems to love the front window. Mrs. Wilson looked affectionately at the greenery.

Yes, my wife loves it and has the most splendid garden in all of Aycliffe. She will show it to you when the sun returns. Mr. Wilson motioned to the chairs. Please sit. You must be exhausted from your trip.

Beth found Mr. Wilson possessed a cheerful demeanor in his mannerisms and facial expressions. His salt-and-pepper-colored hair gave way to a large bald spot on the top of his head. His stature was thin and wiry, akin to a skeleton, and she briefly wondered if he were ill.

Francis chose the settee, and Beth sat next to him. The room grew quietly awkward for a few seconds as their hosts grinned and scrutinized them. A maid entered the room with a pot of tea and cups on a large silver tray. She set it down on the table and then scurried away. Beth took the liberty of speaking first.

My brother and I wish to thank you for your generous invitation. I must admit that it quite surprised me to receive your letter expressing that you wished to extend such a courtesy. After all, we are unacquainted, although you knew our mother.

Francis augmented Beth’s sentiments. I agree with Beth. It is a thoughtful gesture to invite us into your home. After a year of mourning, the invitation has been most timely.

Mr. and Mrs. Wilson smiled at one another, acknowledging their pleasure. By the sparkle in their eyes, they exchanged a knowing glance but remained silent in their thoughts.

Tea? Mrs. Wilson asked, picking up the flowered pattern china pot and pouring a cup. Milk or sugar, Miss Edwards?

Call me Beth, please, and a bit of milk will do.

And how about you, Mr. Edwards?

No milk or sugar, he replied.

Beth noted that her brother wished to keep the formality of not offering his Christian name. Until he felt comfortable with the Wilsons, he would remain cautiously distant.

After serving a steaming cup, Mrs. Wilson spoke in a compassionate tone.

Your dear mother, God rest her soul, she began, left you far too soon. I was so terribly heartbroken to hear of her passing.

Mrs. Wilson’s eyes watered. Her husband sat quietly, displaying disenchantment with a frown on his face.

I very much agree. Our mother’s death was a shock to us all, Beth admitted. Painfully, she recalled the day she fell ill with the sniffles. A high fever followed, which turned into pneumonia. Their father had passed away from a heart ailment only a year earlier. The gnawing sense of loss pricked Beth’s heart, feeling cheated for not having them longer in her life.

It was kind of you to remember us and let us know of your mother’s passing, Mr. Wilson said. We would have wondered had her letters ceased unexpectedly whether a misfortune had befallen.

We were aware, sir, that our mother corresponded with you for these twenty-plus years, so it was the least we could do, Francis acknowledged. She must have held you in high regard to maintain contact.

Beth gave Francis a sideways look with one arched brow since earlier in the day, he had scolded her for having written to the Wilsons. He could change his mind on a whim to suit the situation, and Beth wanted to give him a sisterly jab with her elbow.

We held her in high regard, Mr. Wilson confessed. A fine young lady who made quite an impression upon Aycliffe during her stay here. Others remembered her with great affection and were sad to hear of her passing.

Others? Beth tilted her head at the surprising announcement and words of great affection.

Old acquaintances, Mrs. Wilson clarified. By and by during your stay in Aycliffe, you will meet them.

I daresay, Mr. Wilson chuckled softly, that my wife and I feel we know the two of you rather well. Your mother often wrote about you as you were growing into adulthood, and it appears that you turned out to be fine individuals.

Sounds like Mother, Francis confirmed with a nod. She had a way of singing her praises about us whenever the opportunity arose, he remarked in a melancholy tone. Mother had the distinct gift of embarrassing me to the point of blushing.

No, it was I who blushed, Beth clarified. As she finished speaking, a young lady abruptly arrived and stood on the threshold. Surprised by the unexpected intrusion, Beth put her teacup