It’s been a rough year for everyone, but Hearties have been on a particularly turbulent emotional roller coaster. First, there was the infamous Nathan-Elizabeth-Lucas love triangle, which was resolved during the Season 8 finale when Elizabeth chose Lucas.

It would be an understatement to say that this decision did not sit well with some fans.

Next, there was the uncertainty as to whether there would even be a Season 9. Hallmark seems to be slashing shows and mystery series left and right. In July, the network announced it was canceling Good Witch. More recently, fans found out that the Hailey Dean mystery series starring Kellie Martin was getting the ax.

But to the great relief of everyone (except the fans who said they would never watch the show again since Elizabeth broke Nathan’s heart), Crown Media went ahead with production on Season 9.

The network recently released a set of teasers for the new season, in which we find out that — shock, horror — Jesse and Clara have left Hope Valley.

Seriously, let that sink in: Jesse and Clara, the poster couple for all that is sweet and joyous and innocent in life, are gone.

In a clip released by the network, the Canfield family — joined by Bill Avery — are sitting down to a meal when Bill says he has received a letter from Jesse and Clara.

When Angela asks where they are, her father answers, “Homesteading in Montana.”

Um, seriously? Just like that, they are gone? We are devastated.

Here is a clip from their wedding, which we are going to watch on repeat while consuming vast quantities of chocolate: