Hey all! It's been a while but that doesn't mean I wasn't writing this story on and off. To be honest I'm rather shocked people are still interested in this story.I hope you enjoy it and I will try to post as often as possible.

Chapter 17

Mary quietly sipped her tea as she listened to the women chat away with gossip. She did not want to be here and yet she was supporting Charles who was in the other room with Cromwell and the Seymours. They were invited by Cromwell for dinner and although Mary wanted nothing more than to throw the invitation in his face, they graciously accepted. This was the role she and Charles had to play whether she liked it or not.

Although she could not help but like Lady Cromwell who seemed to be a kind gentle soul it was easy to forget she also supports her husband's schemes. The older woman looked at her serenely and smiled as Anne continue to tell her how Edward and Charles narrowly escaped with their lives in the North.

"You are very fortunate to still have your husbands all in one piece." Said Lady Cromwell. "I couldn't imagine if that had been Thomas."

"It was traumatic." Anne agreed, "Thank god for the Duke and the Duchess who took care of my Edward."

"Were you not available to nurse him?"

Anne stiffened, unsure how to respond. Mary frowned at her hesitation and wondered if Anne even liked Edward.

"She had been indisposed with Lady Jane," Mary said covering for her.

Lady Cromwell nodded her head in understanding. "How is the Earl as a patient?"

Mary nearly choked on her tea but smiled. "He was an easy patient, followed the surgeon's orders very well."

Anne's smile did not reach her eyes and she reverted her gaze at Mary who took another uncomfortable sip of tea. Ever since her return to Richmond Court, Anne has been a little aggressive with her. Not that it matters because at the end of the day she was a Seymour and she could not turn a blind eye to her.

Lady Cromwell turned to Mary and leaned in. "How is Countess Salisbury?" Her eyes seemed concerned.

Mary gave her a confused look. "She is well I hope. I haven't seen her yet and my letters gone unanswered."

The older woman's expression fell in surprise. "You don't know do you." It wasn't a question but a fact.

"Know what exactly?"

"It appears her eldest son Reginald has been conspiring to have the King's bastard on the throne…."

Suddenly Mary's mind went numb as the women continue gossiping about Lady Salisbury. She wanted nothing more but to run away from this place and straight to Lady Salisbury.

Mary immediately jumped out of the carriage and strode toward Countess Salisbury's manor. Charles chased after her as she ran like a woman possessed towards the main entrance. They immediately left after supper at the Cromwell's citing Mary's ill health. It was only when they were in the carriage did he realize she lied and had requested they leave for Lady Salisbury.

He slowed down when he realized none of the countess's servants greeted them. Something was certainly wrong here.

"Mary!"

He called but she didn't hear him and ran toward the door. Mary frantically began to bang on the door.

No answer and Mary whipped around staring at Charles wide-eyed. "Where could she be?"

Charles let out a breath and knocked "This is the Duke of Suffolk and I am requesting- "

Suddenly the doors open and they were immediately met with the servant girl who clearly had been distraught and crying.

"They took them all away, your grace. Even little Edward."

Mary nearly fell back in shock but Charles caught her elbow.

"When?" He asked the girl.

"Late last night."

He felt Mary make a move back to the carriage but he stopped her. "Mary!" He pulled her toward him and shook her. "Mary! Stop! Listen to me, there is nothing we can do. At least not right now"

"I cannot accept this Charles! He has gone too far!" She argued back.

"I know Mary but we must be rational." He tells her taking her face into his large hands. "Listen to me, we will act but we must be smart."

Mary stared at Charles for a long time then finally nodded and let Charles lead her toward their carriage.

*****At their London Apartment***

Charles watched as Mary slowly helped him tie his birches. He watched her brows furrow in concentration but he knew her mind was elsewhere. They had spent the night discussing and scheming ways to save Countess Salisbury and her family but at every turn, they were stuck. Henry was as vindictive as they come and if he couldn't have Reginald Pole's head on a spike, then he will have his family take his place

"Surely father will have you oversee the investigation?" Mary said interrupting him from his thoughts.

Charles pressed his lips grimly. "You and I both know it is highly unlikely. He will know I will at least try to save them for your sake which will not be good for us. He will see it was a betrayal and we cannot be on shaky ground. Especially not now."

"Do you think I can visit her?" She watching Charles smooth his outfit. He was wearing navy and black today which made him appear very regal.

"Perhaps, but if it is Cromwell or one of the Boleyn who is in charge there is no way they will allow you." Charles sat on their bed and began to pull on his boots.

Mary crossed her arms. "I cannot just sit back and do nothing Charles."

Charles takes her pale hands into his large ones. "No one is asking you to, my love." He tells her trying to ease her. "But I must see your father first. That way I know how we must approach this."

Her eyes began to sting with emotion thinking about what a tyrant her father had become. It hurt her to know he was capable of such a thing and she felt more for the child being locked in that awful tower. If she couldn't save Lady Salisbury she will at least try to save that little boy.

"How could he arrest an 8-year-old boy?"

Charles grabbed her hand and pulled her onto his lap. Mary instinctively straddles him and wrapping him into her embrace. She pulls him close, running her fingers through his dark hair. Charles rested his head against her breast enjoying the feel of her fingers. Deep down he knew that Countess Salisbury's fate was inevitable but he couldn't bring himself to tell Mary. Mary already lost one mother and now she will lose another one. Could she bear it? How could he protect her?

But for her sake, he will try regardless and although he has failed Mary many times in the past he was determined to show her there was nothing he won't do for her.

"I will do all that I can, I promise you." He whispers as he kisses her cheeks.

"I know." She said her voice wavering with emotion.

**Richmond's Court**

Charles stood waiting with Edward Seymour and Cromwell in Henry's study. Notably, he noticed the absence of the Boleyns which didn't surprise him because little by little the King has been slowly isolating them.

"Gentlemen." The King said as he entered the room.

They all bowed while he took a seat.

"I believe you are all now aware that I have arrested Reginald Pole's entire family."

All three men nodded in acknowledgment. Charles had hoped he could speak to the King alone but it seems he could not do much to influence the matter.

"Well," Henry began. "I have decided that Edward will be responsible for overseeing the investigation."

Charles felt his stomach sink even though he knew Henry would never designate the investigation to him. He studied Edward whose face was serious and yet appear eager to prove the King his value.

Suddenly Cromwell spoke up, "What about the boy? Will he also stand trial?"

Henry glowered at Cromwell for a moment. "No one is spared. Treason is like a weed you need to also destroy the root so that they will not grow anymore."

Charles nearly flinched at his response but kept his face as stoic as possible.

"All of you may leave except for the Duke of Suffolk."

When they were alone Henry moved toward him predatorily. "I recognize this trial may cause some conflict in your household."

"Countess Salisbury is like a mother to Mary," Charles told him.

"Countess Salisbury is a traitor." Henry shot back. "Mary understands what happens to traitors and why they must die."

"Countess Salisbury's only crime is that she is related to Reginald Pole."

Henry spun around in anger. "So what does that matter?! If I can't kill him then I have his family to pay in his stead."

"That is not justice, your majesty," Charles told him but he knew it was a losing argument. There is no way to reason with Henry.

"Can we at least spare the boy? Send him to exile to France."

Henry scoffed. "So that he will grow up and stab me in the back?"

"He's innocent. He is just a little boy."

"Charles!" Henry shouted, "The only reason why I haven't tried to wring your neck is that I know you are trying for her sake."

Charles watched the King approached him menacingly and stopped short a few millimeters from his here.

"Which is why I will forget your insolence. Now get out before I throw you out." Henry whispers seething into his ear.

Charles looked down at the King and clenched his jaw in frustration before he left. When he exited the room in the main hall he noticed Edward Seymour leaning near the side talking with his father and brother. Charles resisted the urge to glare at him but suddenly saw Edward's gaze become preoccupied with something else. Charles followed his gaze and noticed a young woman wearing an emerald green dress striding toward him. It took him a moment to realize it was his own wife.

Mary locked eyes with him and picked up her speed.

Charles reached her halfway and embraced her.

"Darling, I thought I told you to wait at home." He said quietly as he kissed her forehead. He looked over to the Seymours and noticed Edward narrow his green eyes at them. Charles couldn't help but feel satisfied at his jealousy.

"I know we agreed but I thought I would surprise you." Mary lied unsuccessfully.

Charles sighed unimpressed and took her by the elbow. "Let us go home shall we?"

Mary slowly descended down the step of the carriage, her heart sinking lower and lower with each step. She did not tell him where she was going but the situation required drastic measures. She looked at her footman who seemed wary of her composure.

"Are you unwell, your grace?"

Mary looked at him and smiled reassuringly. "Yes, everything is well. I won't be too long Thomas."

"Aye, your grace."

Mary studied the stairs in front of her and took a deep breath. "I am here now. There is no sense in turning back now. "She whispered to herself.

Before she knew it she was at the door and was instantly greeted by a middle-aged groomsman.

"Duchess of Suffolk," Mary introduced herself.

The groomsman bowed and escorted her inside.

"Please wait while I fetch my master, your grace."

Mary nodded and watched him disappear up the stairs. Once he was out of sight Mary let out another deep breath.

Should she have come? What will she say? No, she should leave and forget this terrible terrible idea.

Suddenly heard footsteps descend the stairs and saw a very tall figure elegantly make his way down the staircase. He wore nothing but a white long sleeve shirt and a brown leather doublet. His shirt was disheveled and a few buttons were let loose. Had she caught him at the wrong time?

Edward gave her a confused look but he did not seem upset with her. Which Mary supposed was a good sign.

He stopped right in front of her and bowed. "Forgive my indecency," He said referring to his clothes.

"To what do I owe the pleasure, Duchess?"

Mary looked down at her hands and saw her knuckles were white from shaking.

"May I have a word with you in private, my Lord?" She finally said.

Edward studied her for a moment and nodded. "Let us go to my study. Do you remember it?" He said as he ushered her toward the main foyer.

Mary nodded, "I do."

Edward flashed her a warm smile and Mary couldn't help but feel regret.

When they entered the library Edward pulled a chair for her and one for himself. He stretched his long legs and crossed her arms watching her intently.

Mary ignored his stare and glanced around the room before her eyes finally met his. She instinctively looked away because ever since that day she had her spell she couldn't bring herself to look at him. She was too ashamed that he knew about it.

Edward suddenly stood up and began to pour wine.

"I am not-" Mary began but Edward forced the cup into her hand anyway.

"Drink." He said, "It appears you may need it."

Mary listened to what he said and took a sip. A very long sip.

Edward raised his brows in surprise and refilled it again.

"Thank you."

"My pleasure, your grace." He tells her before settling back in his chair. His eyes roamed her body up and down then he looked away realizing how crude he appeared.

"You look well." Mary began. "I mean, I know we have not seen each other since you recovered but-"

"You act as if I don't exist." Edward cut her off, his tone calm.

Mary said nothing.

"Not that I can completely blame you. Your husband seems to make sure we never cross paths either."

Her eyes narrowed at his words. "That is not true."

Edward smirked and shook his head. "You haven't been paying attention, have you? Tell me one thing, your grace. Does your husband know you are here?"

Mary paused for a moment and looked down at her lap. "No, he does not."

"Good. It is for the best. If I was your husband..." Edward stopped short, "I would not be too thrilled to have you here either."

"What are you suggesting?" She couldn't tell if that was a threat or not.

"Aren't I the enemy?" He said bitterly before taking a sip of his wine while never breaking his gaze from Mary.

"Well aren't you?" Mary countered back feeling her blood boil.

Edward said nothing as he slowly placed the cup down. "You know how I feel Mary."

"No," She tells him. "I do not know."

Edwards's face was tense and she knew she had gotten him upset with her. "Then allow me to remind you. I am not your enemy."

"So you keep saying."

"I am not your enemy" Edwards repeats again his voice rising.

"Prove it.

Edward gazed back at her for a long time before opening his mouth. "What do you need from me?"

Mary felt the corner of her lips twitch as she tried to suppress a sigh of relief.

"The Countess of Salisbury."

Edward narrowed his gaze at her before speaking. "What about her."

"I hear the King appointed you in charge of the investigation."

"Yes."

Mary looked away "Is there any way that I.." She began. "Can visit her?"

Edward leaned back and crossed his arms. "Visit?" He asked curiously. "For what purpose?"

"She is an old friend and I would like to support her. Besides it is unfair that her own grandson is to stand trial." She tells him.

More silence.

"Mary….you know I cannot-" He starts until Mary grasps his arm.

"Please, consider it."

Edward takes her hand into his causing Mary to nearly snap her arm back but she did not.

"Then I have one condition." He finally tells her.

Mary's stomach sank and began to panic. What would he want? Information on Charles? Sex?

"What?" She barely managed to say.

His emerald eyes burned into her eyes and Mary could feel her heart race with anxiety but her face remained stoic.

"Time." He tells her in a calm tone.

Mary stared at him confused. " I don't believe I understand?"

"A weekly visit."

She narrowed her eyes at Edward who only offered her a sneaky grin.

She watches him lay beside her, his broad shoulders bare and glistening under the blue moonlight as it peaks through their window.

He was still awake.

Mary inches closer and wraps her hand around his waist. She knew he was completely naked underneath their bedsheets but he seemed too distracted and moody since he came back from court. So she presses her lips against the cold skin of his shoulder, then his neck, and she gently trails to his temple.

He turns around to face her and pulls her into his chest. He kisses her forehead and runs through his fingers through her long dark tresses. He feels Mary rest her head against him enjoying the feel of her body against his. His cock hardens and instantly wet with desire for her.

He pulls on her nightgown and whispers into her ear.

"Take this off."

Mary stiffened for a moment but does as she is told. As soon as the nightgown was off she felt him rush her and he had pinned her hard against the bed. He had one large hand around her neck as he hungrily nips at her nipples and neck. One hand begins to massage her clit and her stomach drops in anticipation.

Charles kisses her lips before pulling back leaving Mary breathing hard. He wraps takes her by the legs and pulls her roughly toward him. He kisses her sex before entering her with this tongue visiting her favorite spots. Mary instantly grips his hair she feels his tongue roam inside her. She lets out a moan and arches her back to give him more access. Charles hungrily plundered into every special crevice inside her causing her legs to tremble and face glower. Mary jerked back and let out another groan of pleasure as her body as her husband continued to lick.

Suddenly she digs her fingernails hard into his shoulders causing Charles to hiss and pull back. Her body was hot and sweaty from his eating session.

He stares are Mary in confusion but said nothing as he watched her make way towards him. She gently pushes him back onto the bed and kisses him passionately on the lips. Her other hand grabs his hardened sex which was warm and wet. She begins to rub it in her hand as she kisses his neck and makes her way down to his nipple. She rolls her around his left nipple knowing he's sensitive and suddenly sucks hard causing him to moan. He pulls her face towards him causing Mary to smile before he kisses her lips.

"Don't be greedy." She mummers as her hand travel down his thighs.

Charles swallows hard watching her make her way down and felt her soft lips on him. She looks at him one more time before filling her mouth.

One hard suck and he threw his head back and let out a groan.

Sunlight streamed into the room hitting Charles across his face causing him to frown and roll away reaching out for Mary. He was surprised to find her spot empty and immediately he flung his eyes open but was relieved to find her sitting naked at the foot of their bed combing her long dark hair. He watched her get up toward the vanity quietly humming a song he couldn't recognize. She continued to comb her hair completely unaware he was awake and watching her. Taking in and admiring every curve of her body, the contrast of her dark hair against her creamy supple skin, and the way her long tresses fell along her spine.

Mary grabbed the robe hanging on the vanity mirror and wrapped herself. As soon as she turned she met his deep blue eyes. "Oh, you are awake. "

Charles nodded, "Indeed, but I am wondering why you have covered yourself. I was enjoying the view."

She rolled her eyes and plopped herself beside him. "Haven't you had enough?" She asked as Charles placed his head on her lap.

"Never."

Charles stared at the battle plans before him pensively as his men argued over strategies but he was not listening. Something inside him felt uneasy but it had nothing to with the plan because as far as he could see it was nearly perfect aside from the delay in supplies. However, something told him this was wrong but what could he do about it? Everything from the onset went wrong when the mayor of London failed to supply him with guns and horses in a timely manner. Second, he could not erase the look of disappointment on Mary's face when he was told of his mission.

**Four days Earlier**

"This feels wrong." She whispered into his neck as she enveloped him in her arms. "I don't want you to do this."

"Do I have a choice?" Charles asked, raising a brow. He let out a deep sigh and leaned against the pew ahead of them. They spent the morning in their chapel at Mary's insistence ever since Henry requested Charles to deal with the rebellion up north. She said they should pray about it and seek God's blessing. But Charles knew she did not want this because she herself was staunch Catholic. Although she made a point to follow quietly during these dangerous times, Charles knew she was more devout than she led on.

Mary stayed quiet knowing very well he did not and if he did refuse it would be his head. "Is there any way we can avoid a battle, spare their lives?"

Charles seethed angrily and stood up because the situation has really questioned his morality. There is the soldier in him that has no sympathy for those who disobey the rule of the land. However, there is another part of him that empathizes greatly for them and their cause. These people truly believe they are doing God's will with this rebellion.

"I can try Mary but it's up to them whether they believe martyrdom is their only answer. You of all people understand what should be done to those who go against the King."

Mary stared at Charles for a moment and dread overcame her. "I do understand Charles, believe me but I worry what it will cost you?"

"I've been in many wars, Mary. This is most definitely not a war." He told her but she shook her head in disagreement. Charles watched her step to him and take his rough hands into her soft ones.

"It's because it's not a war, I am worried about your conscience. These are our people and they aren't our enemy."

**Present**

"Your Grace, the Earl of Shulesbury here to see you."

He looked up and was immediately surprised by the presence of the younger man. "My Lord," He greets him.

"Your grace," He responds before bowing.

He looks at his men. " Leave us."

When the room was empty Charles began. "We meet at a desperate moment, my Lord."

The other man approaches the plans. "His majesty has asked me to inquire why you have not attacked yet."

Charles lets out a deep breath. "Not only do the rebels have numbers overwhelmingly against us but the men I do have I do not trust. Many of them swear the rebels' quarrel is not only good but godly." He says walking away from the table in frustration.

"Still the King urges that you attack as soon as possible."

Charles clenched his jaw in annoyance. "His Majesty, would not do so if he saw our plight through his eyes. I have no horsemen and the ones I do have would rather fight for the North."

The earl nodded his head in understanding. "What is your plan?"

Charles looked at the man "I intend to parlay with them."

Mary stood anxiously while the guard fumbled with the keys to open the Countess' cell. She looked back behind at Edward who was leaning lazily against the wall watching her. His handsome face broke into a smile and nodded at her. Was he encouraging her? She swallowed and turned away to finally see the guard ushering her inside.

As soon as she stepped inside she saw that the room was tidy with a bed, a desk and few chairs. It looked like her quarters back when he was waiting on Elizabeth.

"Mary?" She heard her voice from the other side of the room.

Mary spun and was instantly surrounded by her warm embrace. "Yes! It's me I've come!"

Countess Salisbury suddenly let out a sob as Mary steeled her nerves and emotions. She didn't want to show her how terrified she was for her.

After a long moment, Countess Salisbury stepped back and wiped her tears.

"I don't have long," Mary told her as they both sat down on her bed. She studied the older woman who seemed to be well kept and dressed regardless of the circumstances. It seems the King allowed her to stay in a cell that was reflective of her station.

"How are they treating you?"

The Countess shook her head. "Surprisingly well, I want for nothing. I just…my family. My little Edward." She said sorrowfully.

"I will get you out of here," Mary said quietly, taking her hands into hers.

The older woman sighed and shook her head. "You and I both know that there is nothing anyone can do for me."

Mary nearly balked but whispered. "Do not speak like that."

"But it is the truth. You must know this."

"I will get you out. I do not ca-"

"Stop!" The Countess said as she stood up. "Listen to me. Save my grandson. Please he's a child he has to live."

Mary stood stunned for a moment before shaking her head. "I can save the both of you."

"Swear it!" The Countess said with an intensity Mary has seen only once before. She was dismissed from her duties but Countess Salisbury refused to leave her years ago.

"I-I swear."

The Countess let out a sigh and nodded nervously before sitting down again. "How have you been?"

"Me?"

"Yes."

"Very stressful. Things are changing and these are strange times."

"I know." Countess Salisbury replied. Mary noticed her look toward her stomach.

"I have been drinking it." She tells her.

"Good, good. This is the worst time to have a child."

"I'm very aware," Mary told her shifting uncomfortably.

"Is the Duke aware?"

"No. He will not take it well."

The older woman raised her brow. "Take it well?"

Mary sighed, "I don't wish to disappoint him or hurt him."

"But surely he will understand."

"What if he doesn't? He always vows he could protect me but you know but I can't risk it. I have his child and should it be a son My father will feel threatened and with his growing paranoia. He will throw us all in the tower. That is why I was praying the whore would give him a male heir but now it seems he wants to rid of her too."

"Does he?" The countess gasped in shock taking in this new information.

"Yes but enough of them we need to think how I can save little Edward" Mary said hastily not wanting to discuss the topic further.

The older woman snapped back in attention. "Well, how did you manage to visit me?"

"The Earl of Hertford," Mary said quietly, looking back at the door.

"Edward Seymore." Countess Salisbury said somewhat unsurprisingly. "What is your relationship with him?"

"He owes me a favor." Mary felt embarrassed admitting to it.

The countess raised her brows curiously but didn't ask for details there wasn't much time/

"He is in charge of the investigation."

"Yes."

"Then you must convince him."

Mary nodded. "I will"

The door suddenly opened as Edward suddenly appeared.

"Your grace, my Lady it is time." He tells them.

Mary and the Countess stared at each other before embracing them.

"I trust you." The Countess whispered in her ear. "You will find a way."

Mary shook her head before following Edward out of the cell.

As soon as the door locked Edward ushered her down the stairs and Mary felt her stomach sink as they descended. Deep in thought, she knocked into Edward as they reached the bottom.

"Careful," He says in a deep muffled voice as he steadies her. Mary jerked away from causing Edward to scoff and shake his head.

"Shall we?" He asks he motions her to his carriage.

Mary took a deep breath and obliged.