Wow thank you again for the reviews! So to show some appreciation I dropped a mother-load of a chapter!
Chapter 7
****** Hatfield******
Mary helped set the table with Susan while the other girls began to bring in the food for dinner. She had been at Hatfield for a month and she was desperately missing home. She had been tempted to write to Charles to come get her but deep down she knew it was not time yet. Rumours were swirling about how increasingly unstable the marriage between her father and Anne has become. She already suffered a second miscarriage and her father seemed to go back to his womanizing ways. Mary knew eventually this would happen and she grew more concern about Elizabeth. Whatever happened Mary decided she will ensure that child will be well looked after.
"I hope he's coming again." Susan said breaking Mary from her thoughts.
"Who?" Mary asked as she straightened the forks and knives slowly, her heart beat raced a little at the thought of the possibility of Charles coming.
"The Duke of Suffolk." Susan blushed saying his name. Mary stiffened over Susan's reaction when she mentioned him.
"Ah...that is very possible."
"Or perhaps Sir Francis Bryan again."
Mary frowned remembering he held an audience with her demanding her to sign the oath which she ultimately refused when he left her with the documents. In fact she ripped them up and cast them into the fire. Since then she's been receiving many threatening and bullying letters from what seems the world. She wondered if Charles knew what was going on, if he knew would he do something? She hadn't heard from him at all. It was making her feel like he didn't really meant what he said and it upset her more than she cared to admit.
Susan continued. "But the Duke is so famous. More for his affairs but he is rather handsome. My father said he's become very powerful as of late and rich. Yet he is still not married."
Mary didn't know if she felt she should feel flattered or a bit peeved. She can understand why women throw themselves at him, he was tall, rich and beautiful to look at however she sometimes wondered if he had liaisons with women while he was away at court or abroad. Then she wasn't sure if she wanted to know and if she even get upset.
"My father plans to approach him with a proposal."
Mary froze and stared at Susan. "Proposal?"
Susan turned red and nodded."It probably will not happen. He's been receiving many offers yet he refuses them all."
"You are smitten with him?" Susan had talked about Charles a great deal and seemed to have developed feelings for him. Mary always felt terrible because she would have to let him go on and on about Charles and pretend she didn't know him. She wasn't allowed to reveal their marriage yet.
Susan turned red. "W-well I never met him personally but I have seen him –"
"You really believe he will want someone like you?" Kat scoffed as she entered into the room. 'Kat' or rather Mary Stafford (Mary didn't understand why she insisted on being called Kat) had just joined Elizabeth's entourage. Mary didn't get along with 'Kat' very well because she was rather rude and abrasive about her experiences at court. She would flaunt her womanly prowess to the other girls and demonstrate how well she dominated the noblemen circle at court.
Both Mary and Susan jumped in surprised.
"Poor thing." Kat mocked.
Mary slightly frowned. "Any man would want a respectable and virtou-"
"Oh please. " Kat rolled eyes. "And you believe you are in the best position to speak? Our own little Virgin Mary?" Kat laughed and the other girls giggled as they polished the silverware on the table.
Mary closed her mouth in annoyance and decided against arguing with her.
Kat raised held her head high and gave Susan a predatory smirk. "Susie if you wish to capture a great man as his grace. You must give him a hint of pleasure which begins to promise."
"Is that how you managed to capture the attention of that gentleman you refuse to reveal?" Susan asked.
"Yes, and since he's very close to the King. I may have given up a little more. "She responded naughtily and looked over at the other girls knowingly. Mary rolled her eyes and shook her head in disapproval. She recalled Charles words in her head "It becomes dull and nothing worth of value ultimately. You are not that kind of woman which I am grateful for." She didn't envy women like Kat or his father's whore.
"Opening your legs is not the way it should be done."
"It worked on the King." Kat glared at Mary who was taken aback by her answer.
The room stayed silent and Mary felt as if she had been slapped in the face. Without another word she continued finishing setting the table and left for her chambers.
She burst through the doors and paced around the room breathing hard and closed her eyes. As soon as she opened them she heard a knock on the door.
"Mary?" Susan called. "Are you alright?"
"Yes." Mary responded and opened the door.
"Someone is here to see you."
Mary nodded and walked out with Susan.
"Kat was wrong to you speak that way." Susan began.
"She was saying the truth" Mary said dryly feeling irritated at the situation. She felt like writing a letter to Charles to take her away from here but she didn't want to burden him or make him more worried.
"She should still know that you are still the King's daughter and that was disrespectful."
Mary shook her head. "That connection no longer matters."
Susan gave her a sympathetic smile. "To some of us it does." She said taking her armr.
Once she entered the room she could sense the tension radiating from him as his dark eyes glowered at her grey ones.
"Lady Mary." Sir Frances bowed.
Mary curtsy in response. "Your Grace." She knew where this was going. It was like it was before, her father's subjects harassing her always wanting something from her, to confirm something and when she resisted they turned into bullies.
"I'm afraid I have not come to discuss pleasantries. His majesty urges you again to have to sign these articles as you have failed to sign them."
She took the documents carefully in her hands. "I thought I was clear to his majesty I have no intention of signing them but I remain his most humble servant.
"If you do not sign I'm afraid if you do not sign Secretary Cromwell cannot guarantee your safety."
Feeling the threat Mary was taken aback. "However much I love my father I cannot sign. I will not risk my soul for an earthly King. "
"You are a nonfilial daughter. Since you may not submit to your father he may charge you for treason."
""He-He..." Mary inside was shaking under his harsh gaze but she refused to show him any weakness. "He would not" she said firmly mustering all her nerves.
"Listen to me." He said as he approached closer to her, causing Mary to step back. "I tell if you were my daughter I would slam your head against the wall." She involuntary flinched at his aggressiveness.
"Until your head was soft as a boiled apple." He threatened. "Lady Mary."
She watched him leave the room and when he left, her eyes stung with angry tears. Mary stared at her hands and saw them trembling.
****At Court****
Charles waited outside with Sir Bryan as they waited for the king to receive them. He looked over to the older man with the eye patch and though he had been in relatively good terms with that man Charles there was something quite dangerous about him. He heard he came back from abroad a few months ago at the request of Norfolk and Thomas Boleyn but his lack of regard and coldness towards them showed that the family connection meant nothing to him.
He wondered why he was called along with him, for the most part Charles managed to avoid any association whenever he could. He was in deep thought when the doors suddenly opened. The king sat reading a document as Cromwell quietly stood waiting on him. Cromwell's presence made Charles more uncomfortable and suspicious. What was he doing there?
"You're Graces." He greeted them.
"Your Majesty." They responded.
He said without looking from the document in his hand. "Sir Bryan anything to report?"
"The girl." he began. "She refuses to sign."
The king stood still for a moment. "Refused? My order she refused?"
"Yes."
The king let out a frustrated sigh and leaned back on his chair. "What did she say?" His tone rose.
Charles remained looking down on the ground wondering who they were talking about. There were many people the King had been ordering to sign the oath specifically. Though he was surprised the king did not approach him about Mary.
"She did not want to risk her mortal soul for an earthly King." Bryan said mockingly recounting the girls words.
Henry slammed his fist down and abruptly got up from the table. " Just like her mother." He yelled as he paced back and forth.
Charles suddenly froze and slowly glanced at Bryan and then at Henry. Did the King send this man to see his wife? He was suddenly taken off guard.
"Could you have possibly taken other measures to secure her compliance?" Questioned Cromwell.
"I did intimidate her." Bryan admitted. "As his majesty said I could."
Cromwell nodded.
Charles finally spoke up. "With bodily harm?" Francis was a dead man he vowed.
Sir Bryan smirked and said nothing causing Charles to rage inside He clenched his fists but kept his face emotionless.
"Enough." The king interrupted him suddenly sensing Charles mood darken. He must have figured out by now. He almost immediately regretted how he handled the situation with Mary by sending Sir Bryan of all people.
Charles a court and abroad as well.
"You may leave Sir Bryan. I will call upon you tomorrow there is another matter I want to discuss further in private."
"Your Majesty." He said before bowing out.
Henry leaned back in his chair and studied his friends face. Their eyes locked for a moment and Charles could see the apology. "Charles I want you to go to Hatfield and convince the lady to sign again. I fully anticipate you will be successful."
Charles nodded "I will do my best." He grounded out. All he wanted was to leave as soon as this meeting ended. He just had to make sure she was alright and this was the first opportunity in was seemed like forever to see Mary. He was becoming more and more desperate.
"Then I will take leave first. Good night."
Cromwell and Charles bowed as the King left. Just as he was about to leave Cromwell spoke.
"A word with your grace."
Charles grew annoyed at Cromwell, he did not want to waste another minute at court.
"What is it?"
Cromwell looked uneasily at Charles. " I received word about the Dowager Queen. It seems she has passed away last night. I haven't told the King yet."
Charles heart broke and then looked away thinking immediately what this could mean to Mary. " I see."
"I'm not completely heartless. I do feel for the Lady Mary. I thought you could relay the message to her."
Cromwell stood silent for a moment; his face betrayed his remorse regarding the Queen. He left the room leaving Charles alone.
**** Hatfield****
Mary stood outside picking fresh flowers she volunteered get. Apparently a new visitor had come very early morning; Mary shuddered to think her father sent any more of his brutes after her or worse punishing her for her resistance of signing the oath. That's why she had spent the day trying to avoid coming into contact with him. After Sir Bryan who scared her more than she cared to admit she decided she needed to take her father's minions more seriously. Being bullied by grown men calling themselves gentlemen was nothing new and it was something she had been subjected to since she was 12. With that in mind she decided she will try her best to avoid everyone in the house if she can help it as to help advert any meetings with her father's thugs. Her solution was to join Kat to go into town and help shop for household supplies. Though normally she stays clear of her but she was too desperate that Stafford seemed to be the most appealing company.
"Lady Mary! It's time for you to depart."
Mary broke from her thoughts and quickly walked toward Hatfield with fresh flowers in her arms. Completely unaware that she was being watched.
Charles stood crossed armed in his room watching Mary hurry inside. So that's where she had been, he had been wondering where she was all day. She wasn't serving during breakfast or lunch, as he had tea with Lady Bryan who was updating him on the princess progresses Mary had not been present as well.. He could have just requested her but he wanted to somehow surprise her.
He looked around Mary's room which was tiny and pitiful. It looked like a servants room and certainly to remind her of her new status. No one knew he was here which he liked as he found the governess overbearing and Lady Stafford's vying eyes irritating. In one of his wanderings throughout the house he was able to discover her room. He sat on her small bed which was neatly made and then fingered the bible on her pillow. He smiled to himself gently and flipped through it, she certainly was diligent when it came to her faith. He frowned at the plain furnishing room, everything seemed so shabby and even the table rocked loosely. Charles rapped his knuckles against the a table in deep thought. How was he going to tell Mary her mother is dead? And worse that she will not be allowed to bury her. This had been plaguing him on his way here. How could he tell her? He lost his own mother very young he barely remembered her. He couldn't say he missed his parents because he rarely saw them as they were always away at court. So he never had any meaningful recollections with them especially since they both died when he was a small boy still.
He gripped his seat and immediately stood up and inspected everything one more. With a unsatisfactory frown, he knew it wouldn't be long until he was able to reveal Mary as his wife in public. Going by how things were going with the King and his mistress, Charles could see that things were slowly falling apart.
Later that night Mary laid in her bed, she feigned feeling sick and went to bed early. It was a childish tactic an old one but an efficient one. Mary berated herself for being a coward but lately she was running out of nerves to deal with her father's lackeys. At least she postponed dinner with whatever brute her father sent. She shifted comfortably on her side and closed her eyes.
Mary stumbled from her bath early morning completely exhausted, she has been awake on and off since midnight staying with the Elizabeth who had not been feeling well and was fussy; of course no one really wanted to look after her with the nursemaid so passed off the responsibility to her. Which Mary was happy to do but it annoyed her how so inattentive everyone was regarding the toddler. However, when they received visitors Lady Brian and the ladies went to great lengths to demonstrate how well they take care of the child. As soon as they turn their backs they become less attentive and caring. Perhaps this is normal for every noble child and she was being sensitive towards their care but Mary couldn't imagine taking care of Henry like how Elizabeth was. It made her ache inside for her sister and wished she could be more involved however Lady Brian made it her mission to limit Mary from coming into contact with Elizabeth.
She heard someone knock on the door and Mary went open it. It was Martha ,she was Mary's age and her father was a baron. The girl glared at Mary for a moment and then looked away in annoyance "Lady Mary, you are to finish getting ready as you are to serve his grace today."
Mary nodded. "Do you know who it is?" She was worried it was Sir Francis Bryan.
The girl shook her head implying she didn't know and she left.
Mary closed the door and head towards her closet, picking the most severe and black coloured dress. If she was going to go head to head with Sir Francis Bryan or any of her father's lap dog she will be sure to give a strong impression.
Charles sat on the table anxiously waiting for Mary. As soon as the door opened he stood up and saw it was the governess. His expression fell slightly and offered her a slight bow.
"Your grace. Breakfast is coming along late, please excuse the delay" She greeted him. "How do you find yourself this morning?"
"Good thank you; you have been a wonderful host. I'll be sure to let the king know."
The governess smiled and suddenly Mary appeared with a tray of fresh fruit. Charles could feel his heart beating wildly at the sight of her. She didn't acknowledge Charles yet and set it at the table. Lady Bryan pulled her elbow and whispered something into her ear, Mary looked down and nodded. She quickly glanced up at Charles and her eyes widened in shock for a moment and then turned around to exit the room. Another girl walked in with the rest of the breakfast and Mary quickly began to set the table. She couldn't help but gaze at him. Charles was just as intensely staring at her.
"Lady Mary." They both snapped their heads to look at the older women.
"Y-yes"
"Are you not going to greet the Duke of Suffolk?"
Mary gaped at Lady Brian and blushed embarrassingly. "Forgive my manners, your grace." She bowed.
After a moment of silence Charles blinked from his trance. "There's nothing to forgive. I understand you are quite busy my Lady." He finally said.
Mary looked down sheepishly, with her fist closed trying to get a grip of her senses.
"Lady Mary you may go now."
Not keeping his eyes off Mary he opened his mouth. "Actually Lady Brian I wanted the Lady Mary to join me as I have private matters to discuss with her."
Lady Brian looked at the two with a questioning look on her face. . "Why of course. Lady Mary, Your grace" She said before she exited the room with the servants.
Mary slowly sat down on the seat in front of her husband. Nervousness washed over here, it had been what felt like a long time since she had seen him. And after praying so long and wishing to see him and Henry, there he is sitting right in front her. It was so surreal; he looked more handsome than ever in his black attire. That was the colour Mary thought he looked the best in. His dark hair grew a little longer than his usual short hair which added more youth to his already boyish looks. The slight stubble however, made his pretty face more masculine. She stared into his blue eyes and felt herself get drawn in, where they always this blue? She thought. Lastly, her eyes fell on his lips and Mary quickly looked away shly remembering their last kiss.
They stayed silent for long time.
"Did I surprise you?" He asked breaking the silence.
Mary nodded trying to keep her composure. "Yes."
"I heard you were ill." Charles studied her and noticed she grew since he last saw her months ago. She wore a black dress that was very detailed with mixed patterns and silk. It was a beautiful dress but seemed somewhat heavy for Mary. She seemed taller and thinner, she faced matured and traces of her baby face seemed to have almost disappeared.
Mary turned red. "I…I lied."
Charles raised an eyebrow amused. "I did not know it was you. I thought-I thought you were one of them." She stammered. Why was she so uneasy?
He frowned at her response. "I see."
"If I had known, I wouldn't have..." Mary looked down at her hands hesitating.
"Runaway?"
"I suppose it was like that."
"You don't seem so happy to see me." He commented.
She nearly gawked at his comment. That couldn't have been farther from the truth. "That's not true. I've... missed you."
Charles let out a small smile at her confession. "How much?" He asked as he leaned over in his seat and took her in as he hadn't seen in what felt like forever. Every time they reunite she becomes more and more beautiful to him. Mary instinctively moved back.
Charles couldn't help but feel slightly hurt at her recoil but he covered it with a smirk.
"Forgive me that was a bit forward of me."
"N-no you did nothing wrong. It was me...I only. " She stopped trying to find the right words. "I do not mean to make things uncomfortable." Mary mentally scolded herself for reacting the way she did.
"Do you know what I hate about being away from you?"
Mary shook her head not knowing. "What?"
"I always have to come and break down your walls again. Every time we move forward we take steps backwards."
"What should we do?"
Charles reached for her hand and held it. "Try to continue where we left off."
Mary couldn't help but smile it certainly felt nice and secure when he did this.
"Come sit here,"
She looked at him stunned. "What if someone sees?"
"Let them see." He countered.
"We cannot." She hesitated looking back at the door.
"Would you rather I kiss you?" He countered.
In alarm Mary stood up from her chair and sat on his lap. Since when was he this flirtatious?
Charles chuckled wrapping his arms around her waist. "I do not know if I should be offended seeing how fast you came."
Mary ignored his comment and decided to tease him. "There is something very nostalgic when I sit here."
"Nostalgic?"
"Yes I use to sit with my father like this."
Charles frowned unimpressed. "That won't do."
He pulled Mary up towards him where their faces were millimeters away. Mary swallowed nervously feeling his firm body against her, she always knew her husband was fit. She noticed her hands slightly shook as she tried to placed her hands on his chest trying to create some distance between them as she found it a little overwhelming being so close to him like this. Charles looked down at her hand intrigued and then looked at her and his eyes fell on her lips. He always replayed that last kiss in his mind and now they were that close to him, he wanted to take her then.
A knock was heard and the both whipped their heads towards them. Charles could feel Mary Immediately stand up and moved back to her chair immediately looking down.
Charles sighed and cursed their timing. "Come in." He finally said.
A pretty girl around Mary's age entered the room with golden blonde hair and hazel eyes. He noticed her face flush when she laid her eyes on him. "F-forgive me your grace." She stammered blushing harder. "I came to collect the Lady Mary it seems the Princess in an inconsolable mood. I am sure you understand."
Mary looked a Charles for his permission to leave.
Charles gave a disappointed gaze back at Mary. "Lady Mary." He dismissed lowing his head regretfully.
She curtsied and immediately followed Susan out the door but not before giving him another look but was interrupted by a screaming toddler and quickly left the room
Charles watched the door close and finally he out a deep breath. He leaned back in his chair unable to hold back a smile.
***Later at night***
Mary slowly opened the door into her chambers feeling overwhelmed and tired. The events of today just left her even more drained especially with Charles arrival and even though she wanted to spend more time with him and ask him why he was at Hatfield she was too exhausted from watching the baby all night. She couldn't think anymore Mary only wanted to sleep.
She slowly loosened her corset and then collapsed on the bed immediately closing her eyes. Just as she was about slip into a deep slumber, she felt something gently brush her hair. She opened her eyes and saw Charles sitting down on the chair beside her.
Mary suddenly sat up in surprise.
"How did you get in?"
"It was open. I was surprised you did not even notice me sitting by the bed."
"How were you not caught?" She asked.
Charles smirked. This was definitely not the first time he sneaked into a woman's room.
She blushed realizing who she was asking. "A stupid question."
He shook his head , "There is a carriage going into town for the day. I did not leave in it. It was a ploy"
"What will you do then?"
"Stay here. Say you still feel ill"
Mary wasn't sure she liked this idea but trusted Charles he knows what he is doing. She looked around the room and felt embarrassed at her circumstances. "I only wish I had a better room to offer you."
"I don't care about that." He assured her although he was displeased with what room she was given. She was still the King's daughter not a milkmaid.
"You don't?"
He shook his head and offered her a small smile. "As long we're not separated."
Mary nodded but involuntarily let out a yawn and she immediately clasped her hand on her mouth as here eyes watered with tears. She not only felt horrified but awkward that Charles saw her.
Charles let out a light chuckle as her adorableness, she could never bore him. "Sleep."
"How can I sleep?" She blushed. "When you are in my room?"
"Just lie down and close your eyes."
"And you will do what?"
" I will remain sitting here."
"I can't sleep while you sit there and watch, it feels strange."
"Does it?" Charles raised his dark brows in surprise at her discomfort. Perhaps their relationship hasn't progressed as close as he had thought.
Mary couldn't answer and then thought of an idea but felt really nervous to suggest it. "Besides, you can't just sit there in this tiny room, you will be uncomfortable in that chair."
"What do you suggest?" He asked as he gave her a teasing look there was clearly one solution to this all but he wondered if she would initiate and offer her bed.
She slowly looked down at bed and made room for him, the bed was considerably smaller to what they were use to, especially with Charles tall frame. Charles took off layers of his doublet to get comfortable and laid himself carefully not to entrench in her space unsure how what her level comfort she is with . The last time they were at the palace they were closer enough to hold each other in bed but that was months ago. Now, it had been obvious to Charles that it was not easy to pick up from where they last time. He looked up at the ceiling while Mary was on her side feeling very restless. They remained silent for a long moment.
"Why don't you just tell me why you are really at Hatfield?" She whispered as she turned to face him.
Charles looked over at her and clenched his jaw "Because what I have to say will make you sad."
She met his gazed feeling moved by her husband's desire to protect her she reached out to touch his face. Charles looked at her sadly and wrapped his arm around her waist pulling her closer.
"You can't delay the inevitable, Charles."
"I know ." He sighed.
She studied him once more before resting her head against his chest. "This is not about Henry because you would have told me immediately?"
"No. He's perfect aside from the fact he misses you."
Mary's felt her heart wrench, she should just go home now. If it wasn't Henry then it could only be one more special person.
"My Mother."
"Yes."
"Is she sick?"
Charles hesitated briefly "Mary..."
Mary instantly sat up. "What?"
"She was very ill and now she's in a better place."
She blinked at his words, and then the tears flooded down uncontrollably. Charles reached for her but she immediately got up from the bed breathing hard. "What are you saying to me?"
Charles stood up from the bed as well.
"I am sorry." He managed to saw as she sank down against the bed in shock.
"Oh no." She whispered. "She can't be…"
Charles froze helplessly, there were few times in his life he felt this way. But watching Mary tore at his heart and he wanted to comfort her but truthfully he was not very good at comforting anyone in this situation. Especially a 17 year old, who not only was wife but was a girl who was separated from her mother for years. She never looked so small to him. He couldn't help but feel responsible for many things that had happened to Mary. He stood by her father when he made all those choices to separate the Queen and ultimately divorce her.
Charles sat down beside her and leaned against bed and swallowed. He looked outside the window and realized the weather changed from beautifully sunny to slight rain.
He waited on her before he inched closer and wrapped an arm around her as she continued to weep.
"What about the burial? Can I even go?" She croaked. Charles shook his head sadly in understanding. "You know I can't."
Her heart felt like it was being ripped apart. "Why?" She whispered."How could he still...den-deny us this? How could he leave her to die alone?" Mary voice shook with emotion and few tears fell as she tried to hold them back.
Charles hesitated and smoothed out her hair affectionately. "I do not know Mary. I wish...if I could I would bring you there."
For what seemed like an eternity for Charles, he heard her stop crying and rested her head into his chest staring into space for awhile he stroke her hair.
No one spoke.
Finally he looked down. "Go rest" He whispered into her ear.
Mary stayed still and then finally looked at him; her icy blue eyes were swollen from the tears. Then she shook her head.
A while after she was fast asleep. Charles gently lifted her on to the bed and then settled beside her. He watched her for a moment longer and placed his hand against her cheek. He ran this thumb against her soft cheek and pulled her close towards him.
It was late that night when he heard her whimper in her sleep and then she trashed in her sleep. She was dreaming and whatever she dreamed disturbed her. Charles immediately grabbed her by the shoulders and shook her. "Mary." He whispered not wanting her to make any more noise before someone could hear her.
Mary eyes flew opened and she breathed hard as woke from her slumber. She looked at Charles in confusion. "Charles?" She called his name as if she wasn't sure it she was still dreaming or not.
"Yes, it's me. You were having a nightmare."
Mary's face fell at the realization that she wasn't in a dream. Her mother was truly dead. She looked down and gripped the bed sheet hard.
"Mary?"
Mary looked at him and her eyes darkened. Charles was surprise at the intensity that she stared at him, was it hate? Did she resent him for failing to bring her to her mother? It was a familiar look, a look that Margret uses to give him when they argued.
"You have every right to hate me." He told her. "I didn't try hard enough to let you see your mother."
She ignored him and leaned closer to him stopping millimeters from his handsome face. "I don't hate you." She whispered inside she was desperate, Mary wanted to forget everything even for a moment and she had an idea how.
She pressed her lips against his, feeling his stubble light prick her chin sent shivers down her spine. Mary quickly lifted her skirt and leaned her other leg over Charles and settled into saddle position. Charles instinctively grabbed her hips and pulled against him and proceeded to kiss her back. Unlike their previous kisses, this kiss was aggressive as she tried to slip her tongue into his. Charles let out a moan this was driving him crazy, she was moving fast and very eager which he knew was of her inexperience she had no idea how to control her movements and emotions. He broke the kiss and stared at her while they both caught their breath.
"What are you doing?" He asked.
She captured his lips and pulled him down on to the ground as Charles arm gently guided her on to the ground.
He leaned over her running his hands roughly down to her skirt and lifted the hemline feeling her silky legs; he always wondered how that felt.
Mary ran her hands up and down his arms feeling the definition of his muscles and finally gripped his should blades and arched her back. Unexpectedly Charles lifted her roughly back on to the bed in one swift movement and proceeded to kiss her neck.
Mary moaned in pleasure and reached for his shirt and proceeded to lift it but Charles helped her quickly took off his shirt. She gazed at him as he leaned over her and she looked at his chiseled torso in amazement, he was a work of art. Charles couldn't help but smirk at her face when she saw him exposed; it made him feel good that she finally saw him as a man. He felt her hands gently press against his ribs and then his abdomen; her fingers trembled. Not daring to go any lower. She could feel the hardness of his chest and could not help but feel excited. Mary arched her back as Charles spread her legs and went in for a kiss. This time it was gentle and soft, he caressed her cheek and found it wet.
Charles frowned and stopped. Was she crying? He saw the tears coming down from her long dark lashes. Tears of happiness? No Charles knew better.
She finally opened her eyes confused. Why did he stop?
"You are crying." He stated.
Mary eye widened in horror and her hands immediately flew to her face.
His eyes darkened and then gently pried Mary's hands from her face. Then he continued to smooth out her hair from her face, watching her with complete fascination.
Mary didn't dare move and felt her breath grow heavier; this atmosphere is making her dizzy.
"What would you like me to do for you Mary?" He whispered into her ear as he placed a small kiss on her neck.
Mary's breath hitched at the feeling on his kiss. She shook her head, unable to stop the fresh tears falling from her face.
Charles froze and a sense of shame washed over him. He then collapsed beside her and stared at the ceiling unable with his jaw clenched.
Mary stared at him for a while before opening her mouth. "I do not know what got into me."
Charles rubbed his hand against his forehead and sighed. "It is alright. I understand."
"It cannot be alright. You cannot always understand." She blurted out. Mary sat up suddenly feeling anger towards Charles, she was aware it was misguided but she just wanted to scream.
"How can you be alright when I clearly have shown complete disregard for your feelings?"
Charles said nothing and closed his eyes. In his experience he needed to stay silent when a woman especially a Tudor woman is going through a rant. One time he would have screamed too but he didn't respond because he was a good and understanding husband. He was selfish and if he wanted her to love him he couldn't push her like he did to Margret, he didn't want to relive that.
Mary seethed even more at his silence. "How can you insist to want me? I have been nothing but a burden, someone you need to look after. And what have I done for you? Nothing, I am always the one you need to protect and I can't do a single thing to make this reciprocal. Equal."
He let at her words sink in. "What would you have me do?"
"I want you to be angry with me. Say how badly I treat you and how terrible I am."
"How could I be angry with you?"
"You should be."
"But I am not."
Mary pointed at the bed. "It is not that I do not...wish to."
Charles eyes slightly widened at her confession. "Do you?" She wouldn't suggested it if she hadn't started to feel something for him.
Mary looked away nervously, whatever nerve she had just disappeared. Did she say too much?
"Have your feelings changed?" Charles couldn't help himself.
Mary stayed silent unable to speak, as the realization was also hitting her. All she wanted to do was run away but she could not leave. Instead her shutdown and her face became stoic but her eyes showed vulnerability and Charles understood immediately. Maybe he had been able to penetrate even further to her hear than he had anticipated.
"I see." Charles wanted to smile but this whole situation was inappropriate. He had just told Mary her mother is dead, they had almost had sex and amidst the confusion she had just admitted her feelings for him. Even if they are not as strong as his, he will take anything.
After what felt like hours of silence, Mary sat beside him. "You had just told me my mother died and this was my reaction."
"You are in shock."
"I am horrible."
"Then how about I admit that even though your mother is dead all I can think about is kissing you senseless."
Mary couldn't help but let out a small laugh and wiped her tears. "You are terrible."
Charles raised his brows in shock "Are you judging?" He mocked.
Mary shook he head and got up from the bed.
"Where are you going?" He asked her curiously. "We should sleep."
Mary stared at Charles and more tears welled up again. "I can't"
"You must rest. I know you have not been able to sleep well."
Mary lit the candle on the table and reached for her bible. She sat down on the chair and began to read.
Charles gave her a confused look. "What are you doing?"
"I need consolation." She gave him a blank stare for a moment and then continued reading. Charles leaned against the table and watched her read.
Charles blinked his eyes awake and still noticed the candle still lit followed by her voice. He found himself staring at her shoulders as she was praying on her knees. How long has she been like this?
"Mary..." He whispered. He saw her stiffen and stop praying for a moment but then she still continued.
Charles tiredly got up from the bed and knelt beside her. He closed his eyes and listened to what she was saying. Of course it was all in Latin; he wasn't one to pray either but since he married her that slowly changed. Ever since she gave him her grandfather's bible he had began to read it more frequently. He was never a religious man but lately things have became more complicated with the world and he now he was turning to a higher power in order to keep himself sane.
He opened his eyes when she stopped.
Mary slowly raised her head, she couldn't think anymore but she felt peace. She finally noticed Charles beside her in surprise. Was he always there?
Charles rubbed his eyes tiredly and turned his gaze to Mary. Mary's heart raced at the sight of him, how the moon hit his pale skin, his blue eyes glistened, the dark lush lashes that framed them, his tousled dark hair.
"I am tired." She finally said. "So tired of it all. How much more can we all endure?"
He couldn't answer her immediately but he knew one thing for certain it was just the beginning.
Charles stood up from the ground and sat on the bed. "What do you want Mary?" He finally said.
Mary looked at Charles. "Peace." She said without hesitation as she went to join Charles on the bed.
"To live in peace." She slowly shifted her gaze at him.
He felt her cool hands press against his bare shoulder gently; Charles quickly grabbed hold of them with his. He kissed her hands and then looked up at Mary.
"I can never promise you a peaceful life." He said disappointingly, that reality killed him.
Mary touched his cheek and leaned in. "I know."
"However, I will promise to try. I will do my best."
Mary reached out to his hair and ran her fingers through his hair; she leaned into his face and stared into his eyes.
"I am afraid to think what can happen to you because of me."
Charles watched her darkly "You shouldn't." He said with finality gazing into her icy eyes.
*** In the morning***
Mary opened her eyes and noticed Charles already sitting up and buttoning his shirt. He looked over at her and smiled but before he could say anything a knock was heard at the door. Alarmed they both jumped up and Charles hid beside the door.
Mary opened the door and found herself staring Kat.
"Are you awake?" She asked impatiently.
Mary nodded.
"Good. The Queen is coming and you are instructed to wear this. " Kat rudely shoved a black plain gown into her arms. "And I am sorry for your loss."
Without another word she left Mary staring at her dumbly.
Charles pushed the door to a close and leaned against it. Mary looked at the gown in her arms; it looked a servant's dress.
"Is that a maid's dress?" He asked reaching for it to inspect.
Suddenly she snatched it back from his hands. "So it seems."
"You are not wearing this."Charles said trying to contain his temper. He wasn't about to let Mary to be humiliated.
"I am."
"This is ridiculous. Wear the dresses I brought you."
Mary shook her head. "It would be better if I just wore it. I don't care to provoke her."
"She is the one provoking you."
"Still."
"I won't stand for this Mary." He hissed. "There is enough abuse but to humiliate you..." Charles couldn't finish, he just wanted to wring that whore's neck.
"She is just insecure of her position."
Charles held her face in his hands, he had this urge to kiss her but instead he pulled her into her arms.
"How are you?" He asked changing topics.
"Ask me later." Mary told his as tears stung her eyes. "Now tell me why you really came. Why did he send you here?"
"Well." Charles began sheepishly. "You are not going to like it."
Mary instantly knew. "He wants me to sign."
He nodded.
"Simple. No."
****At Court****
Charles handed the document to Henry who ripped out of his hands and instantly read it.
"Finally." He sighed in relief but his eyes suddenly hardened hiding any evidence of vulnerability. "Let's move on to other business." He mentioned him to sit down.
Charles took his chair but his mind went back to Mary.
Charles walked out with the harlot against his greater judgement. She had requested a walk with him before he departed back to court.
Every step he took was pure agony as he wanted to just flee from her presence as fast as possible. What was more uncomfortable was that Mary was ordered to follow behind her ladies.
Anne flipped her hair and gave him a smug smirk. Charles knew whatever she wanted to say to him, she already believed she had something over him.
Charles quickly glanced back at Mary who was walking with her gaze fixed on ground.
"I knew you would be here." Anne said. "I have a favour to ask of you."
He stopped very curious to what she had to say. "Yes, your majesty."
"I know you despise me and so I have a proposition for you."
She looked over at Mary, Charles followed her gaze. "Pathetic isn't she? Her mother has just died and yet here she is serving the Princess of Wales a title that once belonged to her. "
Charles clenched his jaw not trusting himself to speak.
"I hear you are married."
"Yes your Majesty."
"I find it interesting that you decided to take an enemy as your wife."
Charles frowned for a moment not understanding what she was insinuating. "Forgive me, Madam. But what threat does my young wife pose to you?
"That depends." She told him. "I want you to put pressure on the King to arrange an engagement with France."
"Your majesty." He began. "I am afraid I can only-"
"I think you misunderstand me. I am not giving you an option." Anne suddenly stopped and looked away. She seemed desperate to Charles and perhaps saying something that she was put to say. Yes the look in her eyes made him cause for concern.
Charles swallowed and gave her a harsh stare. "Or?"
Anne smiled. "How has the Lady Brandon been these days?"
He stared at Mary who seemed to have felt his gaze and looked up at him. Her swollen eyes met his but she quickly shifted her eyes to the ground afraid someone would notice the eye contact.
Now it suddenly became clear to Charles that Hatsfield was the safest place for Mary.
**End of Flashback**
"Charles."
Charles immediately snapped his attention to Henry. "Forgive me, your Majesty"
Henry glared at him and then continued. "As I was saying, for Christmas everyone is expected to come for celebrations."
He stared at the King carefully. Did that include Mary? He wanted to ask but he knew better."
"Even Mary will come however, she will not participate. I rather she be kept out of everyone's sight. She will remain in your apartment and from there she is free to go home with you."
Charles expression suddenly lite up and he bowed. "Thank you, your majesty. You are too kind."
Henry touched his shoulder. "Consider it my gift to you both. My dear friend"
He nodded and bowed. "Thank you."
Christmas was two months away although he couldn't wait until it happened. However he could not be completely happy about this news. He was worried about her, especially since the threat Anne gave him did not sit well with him. Of course he could easily have told her that his wife was Mary and if she wanted to keep her head she would not dare to lay a finger on her yet on the other hand he did not his own head if he were to say the truth without the king's consent. After all what chance did Mary have if he was dead? Things have become more complicated indeed.
"Now what was it you wanted to speak to me about?
Charles though hard about what to say and suddenly took a deep breath. "I think it can wait."
***Meanwhile***
She could hear the horses run at full speed and a man scream as he cracked his whip. Why? She wondered.
Mary opened her eyes and all she can see was darkness. She suddenly became aware that there was a sack covering her hair.
Confused she tried to sit up but instantly fell back down. Then she realized she was in some sort of carriage.
What happened to her?
Then it hit her.
She is being kidnapped
How was it? I hope you took a few breaks here and there. Thanks again for taking the time to read!
Please review! I really love reading you guys thought of it.