I got the wedding ceremony here
.com/ wedding-planning-ideas/wedding-ceremony-ideas/articles/ ceremonies-wedding_
Also I started a characters list on my profile, if you have any ideas please leave a review of message me!
Princess Katherine of Aragon (Boleyn)- 48 December 16th 1485
Prince Thomas Boleyn, Duke of Wiltshire-56 March 12th 1477
Isabella Boleyn- 16 September 7th 1517
Thomas Boleyn, Duke of Pembroke- 15 September 7th 1517
Cordelia Tudor-16 year May 2nd 1518
William Boleyn, Duke of Buckingham- 14 June 13th 1519
Anthony Boleyn, Duke of Suffolk- 14 June 13th 1519
Rose Boleyn- 13 March 2 1520
Catalina Boleyn- 13 August 29th 1520
Annette Boleyn- 8, July 7th 1526
Michelle Boleyn- 5, October 29th 1527
George Boleyn, Duke of Rochford- 19 April 17th 1513
Renee Boleyn, Duchess of Rochford- 17, December 23rd 1516
Jane Boleyn- 3 March 28th 1530
Queen (Marie) Mary Tudor-17 February 18th 1516
Princess Charlotte of France- February 6th 1533
King Henri of France- 20 July 10th 1513
Princess Cecily Tudor- 11 July 25th 1521
Princess Elizabeth Tudor- 16 September 7th 1517
Princess Margaret Tudor- 10 years August 14th 1523
Prince Edward Tudor of Wales- 14 February 14th 1519
Prince James Tudor of York- 11 years October 1st 1522
King Henry VIII-41 June 28th 1491
Queen Kathryn Parr- 39 August 30th 1492
Lady Elizabeth Bryan- 14, January 10th 1519
Lady Ursula Middleton- 38 February 2 1495
Lady Amy Hobbs- 14 November 15th 1518
Lady Amelia Sutton, 10, May 18th 1522
Lady Mary Howard, 14, April 24th 1519
Gregory Cromwell Earl of Oxford- 17 October 19th 1514
Prince Phillip of Spain- 21 May 2 1512
Princess Joan of Austria- 13 June 24 1519
Charles de Bourn, Duke of Beaucourt- 13 July 21 1520
William Cavendish, Duke of Devonshire- 18 January 9th 1514
Henry Stanley, soon-to-be Earl of Derby- 17 September 1st 1516
November 5th 1533
Katherine Boleyn, Princess of Spain, Duchess of Wiltshire
Of course right after Anthony got better Michelle fell sick. I was absolutely livid with Thomas for allowing her to be around him "mama my belly hurt" she whimpered laying in our bed.
"I know mi amor, that is why you must take your medicine to feel better" she shook her head and started to cry, she refused to take it saying it was gross and icky and when we convinced her once she just threw it up.
"No mama!" She sobbed turning her face away as I brought the large spoon to her lips.
"Michelle listen to your mother" Thomas said sternly and I glared at him from across the bed.
"You drink it papa" she whined and he let out a breath sitting back in his chair.
"Thomas how about you make yourself useful instead of just sitting around!" I snapped at him and he grunted getting up.
"What do you want me to do then Katherine?" He growled in annoyance I put the medicine back in the bottle and pushed some trestles of hair from my face, I had not gotten dressed this morning. When Michelle woke us up because she was sick I immediately sent for the doctor and now I have spent most of the morning trying to convince her to take the medicine which she refuses to do.
"Something other than just sitting there! You are no help at all!" He grumbled and left the room.
"Mama" Michelle whimpered gaining back my attention, I smoothed her brown hair from her face and kissed her forehead.
"Michelle you have to take this, you shall not begin to feel better until you do" I tried to explain it the best I could to a five year old, but she was so stubborn!
"Uh huh" she pulled the blankets up over her mouth so only her green eyes peered up at me.
"Anthony had to take the same medicine as you and he felt a lot better" I whispered softly and she shook her head.
"I made Tony feel better cause I made sure he went night, night" I closed my eyes and sighed for moment.
"Mama gave him medicine too" she shook her head stubbornly, I swear she spent far too much time around Thomas and the boys. "Michelle Boleyn I am telling you that you have to take this, do you want to be a bad girl?" I asked and she shook her head.
"I do not want to mama but I no like the icky stuff" I was on the verge of giving up now when she whimpered. "Belly!" She whined and I got the bucket just in time for her to throw up she sobbed hysterically and I cleaned her face.
"Stop crying mi amor it will be okay" I promised pulling her into my lap and rocking her back and forth. Thomas returned a few minutes later and came towards the bed looking towards the bucket first.
"Has she taken it yet?" He asked and I shook my head as she buried her face into my chest crying. "Petite Amie, you need to take it" she looked up still crying.
"What it mean?" She asked curiously.
"Petite Amie? It means sweetheart in French" she nodded and buried her face back into my chest in refusal. "I do not know what to do" he sighed in agitation.
"Maybe you should not have let her stay with Anthony when he was sick and then we would not be having this problem to begin with" I snapped in annoyance to him.
"Fine! Blame it on me then" Michelle started to cry and I pressed my lips together so I could not reply to him.
"Love, if you take your medicine I shall tell you a story, I know you like when I tell stories" she looked up in tired excitement.
"Can I pick it?" She asked cautiously.
"You may" finally she agreed to take the medicine and she still whimpered and whined as it went down her throat. "Now what story do you want me to tell?" I asked and she seemed to think it over for a minute or two.
"The one with the baby" she said and I bit my lip nervously glancing towards Thomas.
"What story about that baby?" He asked looking at me.
"I told her the story of the Virgin Mary" I answered softly and he stood up angrily "do not yell Thomas you shall scare her" I spoke quickly and he ground his teeth together.
"Finish your story then come to my office" he hissed and I closed my eyes and wet my lips before nodding, he kissed Michelle's head and left the room.
"Papa mad?" She asked and I did not reply for a while my mind was to occupied thinking about what he might do.
"Not with you love" I quickly told her the story about how God decided Mary would have his baby and he would become the savior of man, she loved the part where Jesus was born in the stable. She fell asleep by the end of the story and I tucked her in and kissed her head "if she wakes up come get His Grace and I" I told the servant watching her and she nodded.
I walked to his office quietly my mind racing when I got to his door I could not open it for a few seconds, I took a deep breath and gathered my courage pushing the door open and walking in. "Katherine" he said without looking up and I closed it with a loud 'click' "sometimes I believe you like getting me angry" he snapped leaning back in his chair.
"I do not like getting you mad" I said softly walking towards his desk, once close enough he grabbed my wrist and yanked me forward so I fell into a kneeling position next to his chair.
"Then why do you insist on doing this I forbid you to do?" He asked in a low voice holding my wrist tightly.
"Tis just a story" I shrugged and he pulled me up into his lap.
"She is Protestant! She does worship Saints or carry rosaries, she does not believe in purgatory or the dam Pope!" I gasped at his words trying to pull away but he held me close. "You have already turned Isabella against me when it comes to religion and I believe you have tainted the mind of some of the other children but I shall be dammed if I let you taint Annette or Michelle's mind!" He growled.
"I have turned no one against you Thomas! The fact they believe Catholicism shows they know what is right! You were a faithful Catholic at one time as well! Someone tainted your mind Thomas and lead you astray!" He pushed his chair in so I was crushed against him.
"No one has lead me astray Katherine, and yes at once time I did follow the Catholic religion, but I was wrong! I was shown their lies and by God you will learn of it to!" He growled and I buried my face into his chest. Partly because I did not want to look at him and the other reason was my chest was crushed into his forcing my cheek against his chest. Tears slipped down my cheeks at his words and fell down against his neck "Christ Katherine…do not cry" his voice softened as his arms wrapped around me. He pushed the chair back just a little so it was not uncomfortable but was still pinned against him.
"You are wrong now Thomas" I sobbed and he let out a breath.
"Please do not make me have to remove the children from your care Katherine" he said after a long silence, I let out a loud sob and he squeezed me against him kissing my head.
"Why are you threatening me?" I sobbed and he ground his teeth.
"Tis not a threat love, tis a promise, King Henry might have lightened up over the years but Catholics are still burning, Prince Edward is a Protestant and shall be a Protestant King, do not make him have to issue orders about our children he shall regret." Horror filled me as he spoke, his words were untrue.
"Edward would never harm any of them! He loves them!" I countered and he pressed his lips to my forehead for a minute or two.
"You of all people know how being a King can change a person, his love for them does not matter when he is protecting him realm, if he sees them as a threat he shall have no choice but to remove them" his words scared me to death.
"No!" I shoved at his shoulders trying to get away but he caught my arms holding me against him "let me go Thomas!" I cried and the door burst open and Tom stormed in.
"Let her go" tension filled the air and I did not know what to do, Tom pushed Thomas's chair away from the desk and pulled me up out of his fathers lap.
"Tom go back to your room" Thomas snapped grabbing my arm and pulling me close.
Thomas Boleyn, Duke of Pembroke
Mama let out a small scream as he grabbed her arm and pulled her against him, "no! Let her go!" I snarled in anger.
"Tom please" mama begged, I hated when him and mama fought, he liked to overpower her and show who was in control of the situation.
"NO!" I yelled and they both jumped in surprise, "you always push her around! You were going to hit her again! Now let her go" he looked angry.
"I was not going to hit her, now go back to your room" papa said wrapping his arm around mama's waist.
"Tom please it is alright, we were talking and disagreeing, he was not going to hit me" mama said but she did not know! She was just protecting him like always.
"You always said that when we were little and I knew it was a lie" papa pushed her behind him.
"Watch your mouth boy! Now go back to your rooms at once!" He growled lowly and mama was growing fearful.
"Your father does not beat me Tom, I do not understand why you are thinking like this, please just go to your room we were just talking and I was upset" she stood in front of my father keeping space between us.
"HE ALWAYS PUSHES YOU AROUND! He had you pinned against the desk so you could not get away!" she appeared panicked.
"If you are trying to imply that I beat my wife you are sadly mistaken, now get the hell to your room before I make you!" I took a step forward threateningly and mama quickly looked up at him.
"Thomas please, both of you please stop this" she begged but I did not pay attention to her.
"Are you going to hit me like you hit her" he pushed mama aside and grabbed my collar shoving me back into the wall, mama screamed and tried pulling him away.
"I do not know where the hell you get the idea that I beat her but you will get it from your mind at once! We were talking! That is all now shut your God dam mouth and go to your room!" I shoved him back and swung, but he was better at fighting then me and caught my arm tripping me and letting me fall to the ground.
"THOMAS STOP!" Mama screamed pushing him away, I jumped up and tackled him towards the desk.
Isabella Boleyn
I heard fighting in papa's office and mama crying, I quickly burst into see Tom tackle papa into the desk, mama stood a few feet away in tears begging them to stop. "Stop it" Michelle sobbed, she must have snuck from her room and was standing in her chemise in the doorway "mama…papa" they stopped fighting.
"Sweetheart" mama whimpered and she lifted her up and brought her back to her room.
"What is wrong with you?" I demanded from both of them, they stood away from each other, "have you no care for anyone but yourself? Why would you put mama through this!" Before either could respond I left quickly going back to mama's room and locked the door, she was sitting on the bed holding Michelle tightly sobbing. "I am sorry mama" I whispered, her sobs grew into a coughing fit, whenever mama got too upset for some reason she grew ill, I think it was her nerves.
"Mama no get sick!" Michelle whimpered.
"Michelle mama needs to see a doctor right now, the maid shall take you to your room I promise I shall send for you when she is done I promise" she nodded and the servant took the sick little girl to her room. The coughing fit grew worse and I patted her back as the doctor rushed in.
November 6th 1533
Mama came down with a dreadful cough and her head grew hot, I was sitting on her bed gently wiping her forehead with a cold wet cloth "go to your room Isabella" it was at least 2 in the morning now and I have not slept yet, Michelle fell asleep in her room.
"I am fine mama" I said reassuringly.
"You are getting married in 6 days, you need to rest" she coughed and her hand flew to her mouth I quickly brought the bucket over and she threw up, she probably got sick from Anthony and Michelle and the fight did not help to her.
"Isabella, do as your mother says" papa's voice startled me and I quickly looked towards him "go to bed, I shall be here with her" he took the bucket from me while mama was still bent over it whimpering. I stood up hesitantly and went to bed, the maids cleaned me up and took my dress off and I slipped in-between the sheets next to Cordelia.
Thomas Boleyn, Prince of Spain, Duke of Wiltshire
I was ashamed at what happened and how it affected Katherine, I could not help it though, how dare he say I beat her! I loved Katherine and though we fought she always stuck up for herself and could be just as much of a bully at times. Isabella left the room and I rubbed her back as she cried, once I was sure she was finished I placed it away from the bed and pulled her into my arms "I am sorry sweetheart" I whispered kissing her forehead.
She did not speak I wrapped my arms around her chest, her small hand gripped my shoulder tightly the other tucked in-between our bodies as she hid her face from me. Her body felt too warm, I knew she was sick, when the maid told me it only increased my guilt, my callused fingers guided through her silky ebony hair with ease my other hand rubbing circles on her back.
"Je t'aime tellement chérie" I whispered to her as she sobbed.
I love you so much sweetheart
I pushed her hair away from her face and whispered soft words to her, but none seemed to console her I knew they probably had no effect on her. It took another hour till she fell asleep,. I wrapped the blankets around her tighter when the pitter patter of feet sounded through the room as the door opened and Michelle let out a cough crawling up and snuggling into the other side of my chest. "I cannot breath out of my nose" she whimpered proving her point by trying to blow air threw her nose unsuccessfully.
"Shh mama is sick now too, close your eyes it is late" she snuggled her face her my chest burrowing under Katherine's arm falling back to sleep. I watched them both for a while till I closed my eyes and got a few hours of sleep, altogether I got around 7 hours of sleep but I did not mind much.
When I woke I had gave both Michelle and Katherine their medicine "mama I no breath out of my nose! Look" she turned her head up and again proved no air came from her nose.
"Sit up a little it will help" it the first time I have heard her voice since yesterday.
"Katherine-" she pulled Michelle over her and turned her back to me I looked at her back for a few moments before I decided it was a useless fight, she was too sick and it would only upset her more.
Katherine Boleyn, Princess of Spain, Duchess of Wiltshire
After Thomas left I had Michelle brought to her room, she was starting to feel better and I did not want her to get sick again by me. "Lady Wiltshire, your son, the Duke of Pembroke, wishes to see you" I was laying on my back a cool cloth over my forehead.
"I do not wish for any visitors right now" I said softly and she nodded and left, I could not see him right now not after what happened last night. The girls were more persistent and defied the maids by coming in, "I am to tired for visitors right now" I told them in a hushed voice.
"You are lying" Cordelia said sitting down next to me while the others quickly followed her and sat down on the bed.
"Please do not send us away mama" Rose begged I closed my eyes taking a deep breath.
"No, we should go, if mama does not feel well we shall only be a nuisance" Isabella said knowing very well her words would make me feel guilty.
"You want us to go?" Annette asked and I pursed my lips.
"No, you can stay only for a little while though" they all brightened up and began talking about what they were going to wear to Isabella's wedding and the dancing! I listened quietly to them all wishing the 12th would not come.
November 11th 1533
I got better in a matter of days but have not spoken more then a cordial sentence to either Tom or Thomas, I could not bring myself to yet and instead focused all my energy on Isabella's wedding and taking care of my children. "Are you nervous?" Mary asked Isabella that night at supper as stared out a window her mind a million miles away, she blushed when everyone looked to her.
"Yes" she admitted.
"Why are you nervous?" Annette questioned her.
"Because when I get married I shall have to live with my husband" Michelle dropped her fork and I quickly looked to her, I knew abandonment was a big issue with her, when we left England she threw a fit because we were leaving the cats and kittens behind.
"You leaving?" She whimpered with large green eyes that shown with tears.
"Unfortunately but I promise to visit all the time!" Isabella said pushing enthusiasm into her voice.
"NO!" She screamed and everyone jumped.
"Michelle we do not scream at the table" Thomas told her but she did not listen.
"You no leave cause if you do you will never come back! She promised she would come back and she never did!" She sobbed and I knew she was speaking about the Lady Elizabeth, why would she make a promise like that to a little girl if she knew she was leaving.
"Michelle love, it is alright" I told her and pulled her up into my lap, she crawled into Isabella's arms and she held her close.
"I would not lie to you Michelle, I am not leaving forever and will visit as often as I can, and I am sure mama and papa will let you stay with me sometimes" it calmed her a bit but she still clung to Isabella tightly.
"Lord Wiltshire, are you walking Isabella down the aisle?" King Henri asked breaking the silence.
"Yes, that is if she still plans on it" he glanced towards her and she looked down at her plate, Isabella has been uncommonly rude to both her father and Tom after what happened.
"I have not changed any plans" she whispered softly and he nodded.
"Is Lord Devonshire ready for tomorrow?" Mary asked pushing the conversation forward.
"I do not know, I have not spoken with him for a few days now" she whispered taking a small drink of water from her goblet.
"What happens if he does not show up?" William asked curiously.
"William Boleyn!" I snapped and he jumped.
"It is just a question!" He defended.
"Lord Devonshire will show up tomorrow William" Thomas said with a sigh, I knew if Lord Devonshire did not come he was an idiot! Isabella had far better connections then any other English girl! Her sister was Queen of England her nephew was King of England and her mother and father Princes and Princess of Spain! Sometimes it was confusing for them to think of Edward as their nephew because of the closeness in age, it was awkward since technically he was Cordelia's half brother. But since Anne is a sister to my children too her children are nieces and nephews to mine.
The children did not mention it though and never called each other aunt of uncle, it would make it far more confusing, we all talked for the rest of the night before one by one the children went down. Isabella stayed up thought even though I knew she was tired, I knew why she did not want to sleep because tomorrow she would be married.
"Come Isabella, it is time to get ready" I told her and shook her head with a yawn.
"A little bit longer mama please" she begged and I looked to Thomas.
"Isabella you need to sleep, tomorrow is going to be very stressful" He told her and she sighed getting up.
"Do not worry Bella, it is not as intimidating as people make it seem" Mary told her kissing her cheek goodnight.
"Mama can you stay with me tonight?" She asked and I have not the heart to say no.
"I shall, go get ready" she left after saying goodnight to King Henri and Thomas.
"Mary you need to rest as well for the baby" Henri told her and she reluctantly agreed.
"I shall see you tomorrow mama, I love you" I kissed her goodnight and Thomas and I were left in the room.
"I believe Michelle has slipped off to our room so I shall not be alone tonight" he said as we started back to our chambers so I could get ready for bed. Isabella has been given her own rooms for tonight and for tomorrow morning when she gets ready. "Katherine will you not speak to me?" He asked after a few moments of silence.
"I do not know what to say" I admitted and he hugged around my waist petting my cheek.
"Say what is on your mind, tell me what you are thinking, what you are feeling! Anything Katherine" he begged.
"I feel like my heart has been broken" I whispered and he turned my face up and kissed me deeply when we entered the parlor. He pulled apart and rest his forehead against mine "it broke my heart to see you and Tom fight like that" he kissed me again and held my cheeks.
"I am so sorry love and I wish with all my heart I can take it back" I swallowed hard trying to look away but he kept my face in place.
"But you cannot!" I cried and his face fell.
"I know that, I shall try my best to reconcile with him he is my son after all" I kissed him lightly and pulled away, the maids took me from my gown and I brushed my hair free of knots before heading to Isabella's room. She was still awake when I got in bed and quickly cuddled up to me like when she was little and I just held her close.
"Is it scary mama?" She asked nervously and I knew she was speaking about losing her virginity.
"It is different for everyone, but I am sure Lord Devonshire shall be kind and gentle with you" I did not like thinking about giving her away tomorrow. I knew by this time tomorrow night she would no longer be my little girl, she would be a woman and the Duchess of Devonshire.
"Were you scared when you first got married?" She asked, Isabella was always a curious girl.
"The first time I got married it was to Prince Arthur, I was nervous but we never consummated, he was too weak. King Henry was…he was gentle but very eager at the same time" I knew what was coming next, her questions never ceased.
"What about you and papa?" I bit my lip, I did not like telling her that when we first married I had no choice but to sleep with him.
"When I first married your father it was nothing more then an obligation as his wife that I was forced to do, Isabella everything shall be alright I am sure he will be kind to you" she nodded but I knew from my own experience not amount of words could ease the fear.
"Tell me a story about you and papa, tell me about when Tom and I were born" I smiled softly as he head laid nestled into my shoulder as I stroked her hair.
"You both were born really late at night, it was a surprise because Queen Anne, your sister, had already given birth to Elizabeth and we were not expecting you for sometime. The King was jealous of the fact I had a son and was very angry but I could not be more happier, I remember when the maid first put you into my arms I was so happy. I thought I could not have anymore children after Mary and you are your brother was my blessing" I slowed to check if she was still awake.
"Continue mama" she begged half asleep and I laughed softly.
"Your father named you and I was surprised when he offered the name because we were still not on good terms, the new religion was just being set up and I was valiantly against it" she cut me off.
"Then why did you sigh the oath?" She questioned with a yawn.
"You. You and your brother, the penalty for not signing was death and your father and I argued over it, I could not become a martyr I just had you and Tom and I never wished to be parted with you. I have asked God's forgiveness many times for signing that document…I love you very much Isabella and that is why I am saying you must be very careful about your religion" she did not say anything for a minute or two so I continued with my story. "Mary and George were so excited to meet you, especially Mary, she had been an only child all her lift up until that day when she got 2 new sisters and a brother, your father sent you and Tom to Grimstone Manor with George after a few weeks though, I had you at Court and he did not think it wise to keep you there. But it broke my heart sending you away and I wrote the governance everyday" her breathing evened out and as she drifted off to sleep.
I held her close and hummed a soft lullaby, tomorrow would be hard I did not wish to give my little girl up.
November 12th 1533
Isabella Boleyn
When I woke up I did not know what to feel, I was dressed in a simple dress and had breakfast with my brothers and sisters, after mama helped me bathe and they began to put my wedding dress on. It was blue with a white underskirt, the brocade was embroidered with beautiful jewels and my hair was let down my back, Cordelia brushed it till it shown like silk and then Catalina and her wove flowers into it. I trembled slightly as mama looked me over with sad eyes, she wore a purple gown to show her rank as Princess of Spain, her dress was simpler then mine but still very beautiful.
My sisters wore matching gowns of yellow "how do I look?" I asked papa as he came into the room, he stopped and looked at me with large eyes not being able to speak for a moment.
"You look beautiful" he finally said and I let out a breath, "Katherine take the girls to get to there seats, it is almost time" mama's eyes went wide and she came forward and kissed my cheek.
"I love you so much and I am so proud of you" she whispered and it took all my willpower not to cry, she kissed my cheeks and left with my siblings.
"Good luck Bella!" Annette said with a smile and I waved goodbye to her.
"Do not shake so much sweetheart, it is not that scary" papa said as we waited for everyone to sit down, there was not that many people coming only a few important Dukes and people of France, and of course some of Lord Devonshire's friends and family.
"That is what everyone has been telling me " I said with a small laugh.
"It will seem scary at first but I know you are strong" I smiled biting the inside of my lip.
"I cannot help but be scared" I whimpered like a 2 year old, he hugged me tightly and kissed the top of my head.
"I love you so much Bella" a servant opened the door and my heart skipped a beat.
"My Lord, it is time" she said and he nodded, he took my arm and we stood ready at the door.
"I love you too papa" I said before the doors opened, I felt frozen and he helped pull my from my trance by tugging me forward down the aisle, the ceremony was to be done by a Protestant priest even though France was Catholic King Henri said it was out of 'respect.'
"Dearly beloved, we have come together in the presence of God to witness and bless the joining together of this man and this woman in Holy Matrimony. The bond and covenant of marriage was established by God in creation, and our Lord Jesus Christ adorned this manner of life by His presence and first miracle at the wedding in Cana of Galilee. It signifies to us the mystery of the union between Christ and His Church, and Holy Scripture commends it to be honored among all people." The priest started off and I felt like this was all a dream, I wanted to look around, pinch myself, anything to tell met his was real! But that was considered impolite. "The union of husband and wife is intended by God for their mutual joy; for the help and comfort given each other in prosperity and adversity; and, when it is God's will, for the procreation of children and their nurture in the knowledge and love of the Lord. Therefore marriage is not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly, but reverently, deliberately, and in accordance with the purposes for which it was instituted by God."
I remember mama telling me that the ceremony would be long! Why could they not just say you are both married and that is it? Why did it have to be such a big ceremony with so many words? Lord Devonshire was in a dark blue doublet with gold embroidery, his hair was a light blonde with blue eyes, his face though was pale, he was tall and muscular.
"Into this union Lady Isabella Boleyn and Lord William Cavendish, Duke of Devonshire, now come to be joined. If any of you can show just cause why they may not be lawfully wed, speak now, or else forever hold your peace." I held my breath waiting to see if someone was stupid enough to say anything, but not a single letter was muttered. "I charge you both, here in the presence of God and the witness of this company, that if either of you know any reason why you may not be married lawfully and in accordance with God's Word, do now confess it." I knew a bunch of reasons, I did not love him, I barely know him, he seems rude and impolite at times, ugh! "Lady Isabella, will you have this man to be your husband; to live together with him in the covenant of marriage? Will you love him, comfort him, honor, keep him and obey him, in sickness and in health; and, forsaking all others, be faithful unto him as long as you both shall live?" He asked me.
"I will" I heard my voice say, but it was like it was not even my I was trained to say those words and when it came time it was the only thing I could think of.
"Lord Devonshire, will you have this woman to be your wife; to live together with her in the covenant of marriage? Will you love her, comfort her, honor and keep her, in sickness and in health; and, forsaking all others, be faithful unto her as long as you both shall live?" He then asked the man standing next to me.
"I will" he said with a sure voice.
"Will all of you witnessing these promises do all in your power to uphold these two persons in their marriage?" He asked the guests.
"We will" they all said together.
"Who gives this woman to be married to this man?" I wanted to cry! I just wanted to go home to England and lay in my bed at Hever all day away from this madness.
"She gives herself, with the blessing of her mother and father" he used his Court voice, he only spoke it when he did not wish to relay his emotions and I knew mama must be crying by now. A hymn followed along with a passage of the bible before the priest continued.
"In the name of God, I, William Cavendish, Duke of Devonshire, take you, Lady Isabella Boleyn, to be my wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until we are parted by death. This is my solemn vow." Lord Devonshire said slipping a simple diamond ring up my finger, now it was my turn.
"In the name of God, I, Lady Isabella Boleyn, take you, Lord William Cavendish, Duke of Devonshire, to be my husband, to have and to hold form this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until we are parted by death. This is my solemn vow." I wanted to scream and run away.
"Bless, O Lord, these rings as a symbol of the vows by which this man and this woman have bound themselves to each other; through Jesus Christ our Lord" the priest said to the whole party.
"Amen" we all said but mine was more of a mutter.
"Now that Lady Isabella and Lord Devonshire have given themselves to each other by solemn vows, with the joining of hands and the giving and receiving of rings, I pronounce that they are husband and wife, in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Those whom God has joined together, let no one put asunder." My whole body shook, but no one seemed to notice, I was now Lady Isabella Cavendish Duchess of Devonshire. "Let us stand and pray together the words our Savior taught us" I bowed my head in prayer.
"Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen." We all said together and once it was over I looked up at the priest to see if we might go now, my feet hurt!
"God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit, bless, preserve and keep you; the Lord mercifully with his favor look upon you, and fill you with all spiritual benediction and grace; that you may faithfully live together in this life, and in the age to come have life everlasting. Amen." He blessed us and I just wanted to see my mama, I needed her to tell me again that everything was going to be alright and that I had nothing to be scared about. "Lady Isabella and Lord Devonshire, having witnessed your vows of love to one another, it is my joy to present you to all gathered here as husband and wife. Lord Devonshire, you may kiss the bride." I let out a breath.
I have never been kissed before! Sometimes I wondered what it was like but I did not wish for my first kiss to be in front of all these people. I did not have a second to protest when I felt his lips on mine, he pulled away and everyone clapped happily, we left to the banquet hall where we to celebrate our marriage.
"Lady Devonshire!" Catalina said with a giggle curtsying once she saw me.
"Oh Isabella hush!" I snapped and she and the others only giggled.
"You kissed a boy Bella" Michelle said in surprise and I could not help but smile.
"That is what you do when you get married Michelle" she scrunched her face in disgust making us all laugh.
"Sister" Mary said getting my attention and hugged me as well as she could with her large 7 month belly.
"I do not feel any different" I announced and mama and papa came over, mama kissed my cheek with a sad smile. "Do not be sad mama" I begged softly and hugged her tightly.
"You are the Duchess of Devonshire now! Does it feel?" Cordelia asked in excitement.
"I do not feel any different Cordelia" I repeated and she bit her lip nervously, I knew she thought of her own marriage, at least she had the pleasure of not knowing what nighttime would bring.
"She has just been married girls she shall not feel any different yet, but now you have a household of you own and ladies and servants to take care of you now" papa said and my eyes widened. I had not thought of the people who where employed to take care of me, I did not have a governance anymore I had servants who waited on my every order.
"Lord Wiltshire" Lord Devonshire said nodding his head towards papa, he smiled and he shook his hand.
"Come, let us have a drink and leave the women to themselves" papa said and he Tom and George went over to the table. Mama and Mary kept conversation going throughout the night and there was dancing and music! Charlotte even visited for a while.
"Wife, it is time for bed" Lord Devonshire said and I felt my heart drop into my stomach. Mama seemed distressed when it was announced we were to retire for the night, I knew she did not want me to go and to be honest I would much rather retire with my sisters.
"Goodnight" I told Michelle as she hugged me tightly.
"Night night" she yawned and I placed her in papa's arms and kissed his cheek when Lord Devonshire pulled my arm a bit impatiently. It felt scary as the maids had me undressed for bed, before I was married mama had bought me a new wardrobe, I was wearing a silken chemise with light blue ribbons.
Lord Devonshire had a bit too much and seemed to be a bit intoxicated, I curtsied nervously as he entered the room and the maids left. "Husband" I said in a soft voice, he was only wearing a linen shirt and shorts, I took deep breaths as he walked over and pulled me up to him and kissed me deeply. I was taken by surprise as he wrapped his arms around my waist, he pushed me back onto the bed and straddled my waist lifting his shirt up "please slow down" I whimpered and he leaned back down and kissed me again.
"Relax" he said untying the blue ribbons and jerked my chemise off and tossed it to the ground my cheeks turned bright red, I have never been fully naked in front of anyone other then my mother or sisters when we were changing or bathing. Nevertheless have a man look at me! He started untying his linen shorts and my eyes went wide as he threw them to the ground next to my chemise.
Mama has told me about men, but…I did not understand how it would fit in me, I whimpered as he kissed my neck his hands touching me everywhere. His hands pulled my legs open and I felt vulnerable. "Please slow down" I begged again but it was like he did not hear me, tears filled my eyes and I forced them back not wanting him to see my cry.
"Just relax" he sighed and sat up a little, he held my wrists in his hands as he pushed in me, it hurt and I could not help but start to cry. "Shh" he whispered kissing me while pushing his hips deeper into mine before he took my virginity and rest full inside me. "You have to relax" he moaned not moving and wiped my tears away, he waited a minute or two before moving his hips into mine.
I let out a little cry of pain his hips were slow at first but gained speed, I stayed quiet with my eyes tightly closed waiting for this to end. It ached as he panted into my ear moaning loudly, was this how it felt all the time? I did not understand why woman liked it so much. He started moaning louder till he came, I tried pulling away not liking the feel of his release entering me, he collapsed on me and rolled over and pulled the blankets up over us.
"The first time always hurts" he told me as I wrapped the blankets around me tightly turning my back to him.
"You did not have to make it like that" I whimpered and he sat up a little and touched my arm.
"You are being a bit overdramatic Isabella, I could have made it a lot worse, try not to start an argument on our first night of marriage" he laid back down and fell asleep. I wanted to be in my bed with my sisters or like last night when mama slept with me, I was no longer that girl though. I was not Lady Isabella Boleyn, I was Isabella Cavendish Duchess of Devonshire wife of Lord Devonshire William Cavendish.
November 13th 1533
He took me in the morning time before he left to go hunting with my father, brothers and the King, I on the other hand did not get out of bed not even to get dressed. My lower regions ached "Lady Devonshire, His Grace has ordered a bath be drawn for you, it is ready now" I nodded and sat up as she handed me a robe.
"Thank you" I whispered going to the hot steaming bath, it made me feel slightly better, they dressed me in a dark blue down with gold embroidery, my hair was curled and tied under a matching French hood and the maids smoothed the back of my skirts as I tugged at my bell sleeves not wanting to leave the room. "The Lady Wiltshire is here to see you" I have never heard my mother addressed like that to me, it has always been your mother is here.
"She is my mother, not the Lady Wiltshire" I snapped and the frightened maid nodded, I ran from my husbands bedchamber and into my mothers comforting arms.
"Oh sweetheart what is it!" She asked in fear as I started to cry into her shoulder.
"It was horrible!" I cried and she hugged me tighter taking a seat with me still in her arms.
"I am so sorry love" she whispered in heartbreak.
"He said the first time was always painful" mama pushed me away so she could look at my face.
"I am sorry mi amor, sit up now and do not slouch you are a married woman now and sometimes husbands can be a bit…difficult, but I am sure things shall get better. Lord Devonshire is a fool if he tries to purposefully hurt you, Isabella you must never forget who your family is. Your grandmother was one of the most respected monarchs and you my sweet were named after her" I smiled weakly at her words. "If he hurt you again tell me and I shall have your father speak with him" I hugged her tightly when my sisters came in along with William and Anthony, they had slept in and could not go.
"Do we have to bow to her mama?" William asked in annoyance entering the room.
"No you do not, I do not want any of you bowing to me unless we are in public" there were rules when you were in public, you had to respect title. Talking with them made me feel like nothing has changed, but then I shall move a little and the ache shall come back and I realized that a lot has changed.
"Bella have you ever been to Chatsworth?" Anthony asked curiously.
"No I have not, but I know mama has" we all looked to her "tell us what it looks like" I begged and she nodded.
"It is surrounded by trees and is a nice size house with a beautiful river that runs through with a nice bridge, I am sure you will like it very much Isabella and I am also sure we shall be invited to see it someday as well" mama said ending the conversation.
"Nunnington Hall is very pretty! I have missed it terribly" Cordelia sighed, King Henry gave it to her as a gift and she loved it.
"We shall be going home in January Cordelia calm down" Catalina sighed in annoyance, she hated being reminded of home.
"Do not argue girls" mama said in a stern tone.
"Nana!" Jane said running into the room followed by Lady Renee, she took her seat at the end of the couch quickly "nana I go home with you!" Jane giggled in excitement hugging around mama's neck tightly.
"I know that sweetheart and I am very excited as well" mama looked up to Lady Renee she has been so quiet since she lost her child. "How are you feeling?" She asked politely, Lady Renee was more…distant from the family you could say.
"I am well Your Grace, thank you" I knew she was upset about losing her child, she wanted to give George a son but he loved her regardless. I looked at Jane and Michelle for a moment, I knew I could very well have gotten pregnant from last night and bit my lip nervously. What if I lost my child? Would I be upset like her? I knew mama said when she lost a child it hurt her very much.
"Isabella?" Anthony asked waving his hand in front of my face and I jumped causing them all to laugh.
"What?" I snapped in embarrassment.
"Everyone is back from hunting" he announced and I nodded standing up as they all walked in, Mary was resting this morning saying that the baby had kept her up all last night.
"How was the hunt?" Mama asked papa as he kissed her cheek.
"It was good" he sighed sitting down and Tom came over and nudged my arm with a small reassuring smile.
"Isabella, I need to speak with you about matters of the household" Lord Devonshire told me and I nodded.
"Excuse us" I told my family and they nodded as we left back to our chambers, "what is it you wished to speak to me about?" I asked as he took off his riding gloves and ran his hand through his blonde hair.
"I like my household run neatly and obediently, if I find you cannot do so I shall hire someone else" I pursed my lips.
"My mother has taught me very well how to run a household, I believe I am capable" I said in agitation.
"My mother Lady Charlotte the Dowager Duchess of Devonshire shall live at Chatsworth with us but she is not much of a bother, she spends her days praying and embroidering" I did not mind much. I am told the Dowager Duchess was a very nice woman and very kind to others "though she will insist upon grandchildren" I tensed and took a deep breath.
"Of course she will have some, I do not see why you are questioning my ability to have children I am only 16 years old" I said in an offended voice and he only laughed.
"I was not questioning your ability Isabella, I am only saying you must be careful now no more hunting or rough play with your siblings you are a married woman and must act it. And soon, if I have it my way, you shall be a mother and the child will be your first priority not playing with your brothers and sister or spending all your time with your family" I balled my fists in anger.
"I know very well that I am a married woman you do not need to remind me, and as for my family I may speak and visit with them as much as I please but I can assure you that any child I have will always be my first priority" I snapped and he circled me slowly as if observing me from every angle.
"You are full of spirit, your father did say you were much like your mother" I held my head high in pride.
"My mother is Spanish Royalty, I very well like being like her" he laughed and trailed a finger down my collarbone and into my cleavage.
"You look like a Spaniard as well, I am sure any daughters you have shall be beauties" his eyes filled with lust and I grew uncomfortable.
"Now My Lord?" I asked sarcastically and he laughed leading me back towards the bed.
"Yes now, I said I wished to have my child soon and by soon I mean I want you pregnant by time we leave for England" I took a deep breath. I did not know if I was ready to be a mother, I still felt like a child and knew he might not be in the child's life as much, he would not be like my papa. I would raise my children though, they would be mine not a nursemaids!
"You speak of daughters Lord Devonshire, do you not want a son?" I questioned arrogantly.
"I know very well I shall get a son from you, your mother bore three and two of them are twins, with my luck you shall bare twins as well" I have not thought of that. Mama has two sets of twins and it was a possibility I could have twins as well, I knew one child was difficult I did not know what I would do if I had two. I ignored him as he took off my gown and lay me on my back, I could not shake the thought of being a mother from my mind as he took me, it ached a little but it was easy to ignore. My thoughts though could not keep me from the odd feelings building inside me, he held my wrists down and I let out an odd whimper looking down in-between our bodies. It felt like I was climbing a hill, slowly building till I reached the top and gasped loudly throwing my head back letting out a cry.
He kissed me as he came as well, I wondered when a woman first knows she is with child? I know you must wait 9 months till it is born but I did not know when you find out. I must remember to ask mama later on, but right now I was too tired to even think of getting out of bed.
So Thomas and Tom still haven't made up but there both trying, there be more about that next chapter! So Isabella is now married! It was hard to write lol, her marriage is not for love if you can tell. Most marriages were like that back than though you weren't married for love if you were a noble's daughter, it was all about connectiom. Hopefully you learn to get along or sometimes they fell in love like Mary and Henri, Isabella isn't too fond of her husband right now as you can tell lol
