A Jewel in Henry's Crown

Chapter Thirty two: Sir Francis Returns

.::*::.

Charlotte had been the only one awake that morning. She sat by an open window—the air was cool and crisp. Winter would soon be here again. Charlotte pulled her shawl tighter around herself and sighed. The child in her womb moved and she let out a sharp gasp before placing her hand on her stomach. Her second child would soon arrive around the yuletide celebrations.

Charlotte had not heard Charles' movement. He stood a few feet away from her, watching as she had her head bent down—looking at her swollen stomach.

"Charlotte," he said, softly. She looked up startled and smiled at her husband. "Are you well, my love?"

"Yes," she returned. "I could not be better."

Charles collected her up into his arms and kissed her. He was hungry for her; but, he knew he knew he couldn't do much. Instead, he placed kisses along her jaw line and down her neck. Charles felt her shudder at his seductive tease.

"You deceit me," she exclaimed. A playful smile crept up on Charles' face as he untied the ribbon on Charlotte's nightgown.

"No, I only allow your temptation to grow." Charles murmured.

Charlotte allowed herself to weak. She thought her knees were about to collapse from under her.

"Well," she continued, "at least you and I are married—I shan't feel guilty afterwards."

"You have an excellent notion, my love," he said.

Charlotte sat down and twirled the silk ribbon string on her nightgown in her fingers. Charles knew what she wanted—but dared he?

He made his way towards her and went down on his knees right beside her. Charles brought up the hem of her nightgown to her knees and allowed his hand to go up the rest of her skirts. Charlotte caught a gasp in her throat.

.::*::.

Thomas Wallace had bedded that night with the Lady Rochford. He knew she enjoyed the pleasures of a married couple. After all, it had been a few years since the death of George Boleyn—that sick bastard.

"In all my life, Lady Rochford, I have never known a more beautiful woman as you." Thomas said, softly. He traced the curve of her cheek bone and kissed her forehead. Jane caught herself blushing and her cheeks growing hot and flustered. "Will you do me the honour of being my wife?"

Jane's eyes widened and she sat up, covering her chest with the bed sheets.

"You are asking me to—"

"Yes, you deserve just as much happiness as any other woman in court." Thomas interrupted. Jane had tears forming on the brim of her eyes.

"Yes, Thomas Wallace, I would be honoured to accept your hand." Jane said. Thomas smiled and then chuckled as he wiped away her tears. He kissed her hungrily; grateful that she would soon be his wife.

.::*::.

Henry had given Sir Francis Bryan another commission. He needed a new wife and soon. Otherwise, enemies would be at England's doorstep—waiting to take over the weak country.

"Sir Francis," Henry began. "I must ask if you know of anyone who I may choose as a wife."

"I might know a place or two. My own Lady Bryan cares for a few fresh, young women with an appetite. I think she might be able to help your matter, Majesty." Sir Francis answered, smirking. Henry smiled and laughed.

"Then, by all means, go and find me a suitable wife. Oh, and be sure to take the Earl of Hertford and the Duke of Suffolk for their approval is important as my own." Henry finished. Sir Francis bowed and walked out of the throne room. He thought for a moment, if the duke of Suffolk were to leave, then his wife would be vulnerable. A smirk grew along his mouth as he made his way to visit his close liaison—the Lady Wallace of Norfolk. All was falling to place by his orders.

AN: I know, I know! Please, don't kill me! I'm sorry for the long delay! =( I know this chapter's short but I guess it's a filler for when Katherine Howard comes to court. Thank you all so, so much! You are all dear to me! Lots of love,

Thetudorrosequeen