Breaking The Cycle

Share
Characters & Tittles & Descriptions: Hair, Skin, Eyes, Build

Henry Tudor-King Of England_Dark Brown/Auburn, Tan Pale, Dark Hazel, Light/Med Build

Catalina Of Aragon-Dowager Princess Of Wales, Princess Of Spain and Holy Roman Princess_Black, Pale, Pale Blue, Slim-Curvy

Mary Tudor-Princess Of Wales & Duchess Of Cornwall_Brown, Pale, Hazel, Slim

Elizabeth Tudor-Princess Of England_Red, Pale, Brown, Small

Thomas Boleyn-Lord Privy Seal_White, Pale, Blue, Light/Med Build

Thomas Cromwell-Lord Secratary_Black, Tan Pale, Dark, Light Build

Thomas More-Lord Chancellor _Dark Brown, Tan Pale, Dark, Light/Med Build

Anne Boleyn-Queen Of England_Black, Pale, Dark, Slim-Curvy

Isabella (Tudor) Trastamara Of Aragon-UnOfficial Princess Of England_Auburn, Olive, Blue, Small

Nicolàs (Tudor) Trastamara Of Aragon-UnOfficial Prince Of England_Black, Tan Pale, Blue, Small

Alejandro Trastamara Of Aragon-Son of Infanta Catalina_Black, Olive, Hazel/Honey, Infant

Alejandro Of Aragon-Prince Of Spain (By Marriage)_Black, Olive, Hazel/Honey, Med-Large Build

Jane SiVad/Persèus Borgia-Princess Of Monaco_Black, Olive, Green, Slim-Curvy

Thomas Wosley-Cardinal_Black(Graying), Tan Pale, Blue, Lite Build

Charles Brandon-Duke Of Suffolk_Dark Brown, Tan Pale, Dark Brown, Med Build

John Seymour- No Title Yet_Brown/Graying, Pale, Dark Brown, Husky

Edward Seymour-No Title Yet_Brown, Pale, Brown, Light Build

Thomas Seymour-No Title Yet_Black, Tan, Blue, Light Build

Jane Seymour-No Title Yet_Blonde, Pale, Blue, Slim_

October 21, 1536

I wake up late this morning. It was about half pass 9. Alex and Alejo was still sleeping. Not a minute past and Alex started to stir from his slumber. I pushed myself up and gently held him in my arms. I loosened my strings on my chemise and took out my breast. Gently, I rubbed my nipple on his lips until he took to it. He began to suckle slow only because he was being fed for the first time. Soon Alejo stirred and woken up. He marveled at the sight before his eyes.

"The two of you look so beautiful." he said sitting up. He leaned down and kissed Alex's head. "Do you want some breakfast?" he asked as he lifts himself from the bed. "Yes, I would like that very much husband." I said as I caressed Alex's soft rosy cheek. He nodded while leaving and summoned a servant. They spoke quietly in the outer chambers. Soon a tray with sliced fruit, sliced cheeses and hot tea was brought in. After I finished feeding the baby we began to eat. The breakfast was perfect, I ate it slowly because I still was in pain. After we ate both Dr. Linacre and Dr. Carlos came in. Jane came soon after. The doctors consulted each other and examined my son and I. They deemed us both healthy. I was told I could walk around the room but not to much. Dr. Carlos said it was required of me to wait a few hours before I was able to take a carriage back to Brookfield. I needed to get on my feet first before I could go back home. I could not wait to show Bella and Nicky their new baby brother. That is until Jane surprised me and said she snuck in the twins in with two servants. Although it was a big risk, I was not angry. I am happy Bella and Nicky was here, we all can spend this happy moment as a family.

Their little eyes widen when they seen Alex. After an hour of marveling over their little brother, I decided to take a quick bath, with the help of Jane. I was still weak and sore from being trampled by the horses and Alex's hastened birth. After I was done Jane helped me in a blue dress with silver embroidery. Now I was up and walking, and the twins were playing with a doll and a toy sword Jane bought them. After some time lunch was served. The servants brought steaming hot shrimp, boiled chicken with rice along with other dishes. It was delicious. I ate plenty and practically stuffed myself. After lunch Jane settled the twins on the bed. "Baby." Bella said as she crawled close to me.

"Yes Bella, baby. This is your new brother Alejandro, like papa." she looked to Alejo and he nodded to her.

"Baby!" Nicky piped as made his way to me.

"Yes my sweet little boy." I said as I ruffled his onyx hair. Both children started playing with the throw pillows. Alex's soft cry got everyone's attention. I had Jane bring underclothes for his bottom. I bathed him and changed him into a fresh cloth. I then put him in a Spanish designed night chemise I made for him. After he was cleaned and clothed, I fed him. His suckle was still slow, but Dr. Carlos assured us that as the weeks pass his suckle strength will increase. It is because of his premature birth, Dr. Carlos told me a premature child needs a bit extra care. Alejo and I intend to have Dr. Carlos examine him weekly to make sure he is gaining his health.

After about ten minutes Alex was full and I burped him. His little burped made me so happy. I cradled my son in my arms and kissed his little head. Alejo sat next to me and I passed Alex to his father. Alejo swaddled his son. In his eyes I saw roundness. He is a first time father. Our son made little gurgles and Alejo kissed his neck. The moment before me was beautiful. Unfortunately our bonding moment was interrupted when Henry was announced in. I looked to Jane and we immediately was clueless about were to put the twins. I panic but was out of time to hide them. Henry entered the room, and all went quiet. Alejo, Jane and I bowed and curtsied to him. He nodded for us to rise.

"Good afternoon Katherine, Jane, Alejandro" he said as he noticed the twins playing on the bed. He walked over to them and marveled at their faces. I closed my eyes. Fear engulfed me. I took a deep breath and stepped forward.

"Henry, I only..." he cut me off mid sentence.

"Twins." he said a little surprised. My heart beat sped rapidly.

"Yes" Alejo quickly said while cradling our son. "They are both my babies by another marriage." he lied. I hated for him to lie for me but it had to be done. Henry looked in both their faces.

"I never had the pleasure of seeing twins up close." Henry said as he looked at Bella as she opened and closed her fists at him. He walked to her and put his finger in her little hand. "She has a firm grip." he commented. This brought a smile to his face. He looked at Nicky and smiled.

Nicky in his sweet nature smiled back at the King and said "Lex" in his baby voice. "He is speaking already." Henry mused. Henry then turned his attention to me. "How are you Katherine, and the child. Is he well?" he asked kindly. I did not know what to say. I released a breath I did not know I was holding.

"Yes, I am well. I thank your Majesty for asking. As for my son, he is strong and healthy." I said not wanting to rub in the fact that I just gave birth to another mans' healthy son.

"And his name?" he asked. Alejo took this opportunity.

"My sons' name is Alejandro of Aragon." Alejo said proudly. Before Henry continued a servant came in and pulled Alejo to the side. They spoke quietly for a moment and Alejo came to me and gently gave me our son. "There is important business that requires my attention." he said as he kissed my cheek. He turned and bowed to the King and exited the chambers.

The embroidery business Jane owns is very successful. It brings in hundreds of thousands of crowns a week. She imports fine silks, jewels, skirts, fabrics and many other imports from other kingdoms. She has made Alejo her a partner in the business and his job is to intercept the shipments and see to it that the ships are refueled and their crews fed, paid and washed. It was a duty he loved, and I accepted that. Once they left the room Henry came close to me. "May I hold him?" he asked. Alejo had just left and I was in no position to refuse him.

"Of course." I said. Gently I put my son in Henry's arms.

"He so small." Henry whispered.

"Baby." Nicky said once again. Henry walked over to a chair and sat down. He smiled and caressed his little cheek.

"He is a handsome boy." he commented while looking over my son.

"Thank you." I said keeping a close eye on him. He turned and looked into Bella and Nicky's eyes again. He took a deep breath.

"Those eyes, I have seen those eyes before." he said. My heart skipped a beat.

"Your Majesty, I really must prepare to return home. I am still sore and very tired." I said. He nodded.

"Yes, I understand." he said softly. He handed Alex back to me and rose from the chair and prepared to leave. At that moment Bella said something that caused Henry to stop in his tracks.

"Mama". She said in her tiny voice while looking at me.

"What did she call you?" his voice was emotionless. He turned and looked at me. I quickly made an excuse.

"She calls me mama, am I not her fathers wife." I said and motioned for Jane, who had just come in, to take the twins to the carriage.

"They remind me of Mary when she was little." Henry said as he closed the door to my chambers. He turned and walked near me.

"Your husband is a very lucky man." he said kindly.

"Yes, I am very lucky to have him in my life." I said as Henry slowly closed the space between us.

"Henry, I must be going now. Jane needs help with the twins." I said, Henry's breath was now on my neck.

"Henry please, I just had a child." I said as I pushed him from me.

"Which should have been my son." he said with an angry voice.

"What?" I asked wanting to make sure I heard him correctly.

"How can you be so sure he is not mine?." he questioned. I was baffled at him.

"Henry he is not." I said as Henry kissed me. I push at his chest but he kept coming.

"You do not know that." he said between kisses.

"He is Alejandro's son." he seemed to stop, but continued to kiss. I pushed again and said, "Keep your hands off me." I said as I looked him in the eyes. I was sick of his games and had a half of mind to slap him.

"The last time I took you was in January." he said a he closed in and kissed my breast.

"No." I whimpered remembering how that almost cost me a divorced. "I waited a month before sleeping with my husband. He and I conceived in February." I said pushing him away. He backed away from me.

"January to October is nine months Katherine. This is my son, my long awaited prince." he said louder than he should have. He startled my son with his voice. He began crying softly.

"Henry from February to November is nine months. I gave birth a month early because I was trampled. Please, just let us go, I need to get him home so he would be better cared for." I said. Henry looked at me in realization. He knew I made sense and realized that Alex is not his son.

"Katherine, I still..." he trailed off. I took the opportunity to change the subject.

"Henry, you shall have many sons. They will be just like you. Strong, handsome, and have the royal Tudor resemblance. You shall teach him horse riding, archery, swords. Most importantly you will teach him how to became a great King and how to rule a great kingdom." I said as I looked him in his eyes. He went to my bed and carefully picked up my son. He gently placed him in my arms.

"Thank you." I whispered. Henry nodded and caressed Alex's cheek. I cradled my son and kissed his head. Henry walked to the chamber doors and opened it for me. "Thank you Henry." I said as I exited the room. As I walked down the corridors, I see two men at the end of the hall. Thomas Boleyn and Thomas Cromwell. I neared them and they bowed deeply.

"Your Highness." the said in unison. I stopped and nodded for them to rise.

"Good afternoon Mr. Cromwell, Mr. Boleyn." I said kindly.

"Good afternoon madam." Mr. Cromwell said and Thomas Boleyn had a mean look in his eyes.

"Good afternoon My Lady." Boleyn said. I nodded again.

"Congratulation on the birth of your son. Your husband is a very lucky man." Cromwell commented.

"Thank you, we are very lucky to have such a healthy child. I bid you both a good day." they nodded and opened the main entrance door for me. I walked outside to the gardens to meet Mary. She had archery equipment and targets set up in a corner area. She was practicing her striking distance. As she put the arrow in the string and pulled back. She struck and made a perfect hit. "Well done mi amor." I said and she turned and came to me.

"Mother, I thank you for seeing me before you leave." she said in her sweet voice.

"I would not have left without saying goodbye sweetheart." I said to her. She put her equipment down and came to hug me. I gave her Alex and she cradled her infant brother as if he was her own. "He is so beautiful and handsome, mother." Mary commented. I embraced them both. We talked for a few moments longer and she walked me to the carriage. She kissed each of her siblings and I kissed her head. Soon Jane, the children and I were comfortable in the carriage, then we was on our way to Brookfield.

November 1,1536

Catalina Of Aragon

My grand carriage is a few minutes away from Whitehall palace. Alejo was with me holding my hand. While the carriage stopped we exited quietly. The page boy of the king lead us to the royal dinning room. Queen Anne received us and we curtsied and bowed to her. "Your Majesty." we say and she showed us to our seats.

"Please sit. I am very happy to have you here." she said with a smile. I nodded and the servant served us our plates and goblets of sweet honey wine.

"Thank you Your Majesty, it is a pleasure to be here." I said kindly.

"I've called you here this evening to made amends." she said as she sat down at the head of the table. I looked to Alejo and we looked to Her Majesty.

"I must say, that when we received your letter we were quite suprised." I said to her, Alejo nodded.

"I have been thinking a great deal lately and my perspective changed dramatically due to my daughters' birth." she said as she looked me in my eyes and continued. "As you know our daughters Princesses Mary and Elizabeth have grown closer. Mary loves her baby sister and I know Elizabeth loves Mary. Their sisterly bond makes me happy and I wish to forget the past we shared. Though it is painful, I wish to be no one's cause of misery." she said to us. I was a bit puzzled at her words. She must have seen my discomfort because she spoke up again. "I know I may sound foolish for offering friendship but I do not want tention between us anymore."

"I must say, I never expected you to offer friendship to my family and I. Though we have our differences I never thought it would be you to offer yourself as a friend." I said to her.

"Well, having a child changes a person. When I gave birth to Elizabeth, holding her in my arms... I felt so protective over her. I began to realize the world for what it is. A man's world. Most importantly I saw my father, uncle, and brother for what they were." she made since. It's a shame it took this long for her to finally see. The wool is no longer over her eyes.

"Having a child will make you grow up rather quickly. Motherhood changes you." I said softly, the Queen smiled and nodded.

"I now see why you... stayed. For the sake of Mary, she was your chief concern aside from your Queenly duties of course." she said and I nodded to her. My daughter was my only concern. "I know some what of why you stayed so long, and I respect you for putting yourself out there for your child, I only want my daughter to grow up happy and healthy. I must say that my father tried to talk me out of this dinner but I am happy I did not. I allowed him to tell what to do for far too long." I nodded and we talked more about our daughters. A few minutes later Mary came and was seated at the table.

November 10, 1536

As we get ready for my childrens 1st birthday, my wife and son have been getting closer. Catalina and Alex have strongly bonded over the twenty one days he's been here. She has been so careful with him. He has been getting stronger by the day. Dr. Carlos has been examining him weekly, and reports that little Alejandro is excelling in health and is showing signs of robustness in strength and health. Catalina and I were very happy to hear such good news. Catalina stayed up many nights watching him. She says he looks like me when he is sleeping. One night I awoke to her watching him as he slept.

-Flashback-

"Catalina, Alex will be fine, come back to bed." I said as she looked to me. Her eyes were tired and half lidded.

"Only a little while longer." she said in almost a whimper, her voice was soft and I could see she had been crying. Slowly I left our bed and joined her.

"Catalina, he is fine. Dr. Carlos said he shall be very strong and healthy." I said to her. She nodded slowly.

"I know husband. But I am so worried for him. He is so young and all I could think of is my two sons both of the Prince Henry's. They died so very young and... I do not know what I will do if...if he..." she could not even speak it. I took her in my arms and held her close.

"I know what you have been through was heartbreaking. But you must know, Princess Mary and the twins are a blessing. And I thank God for them every night. I know Alex's birth was premature, but I am his father. It will not be like before, now that I am your husband we shall have more strong and healthy children. I know for a fact that they all shall survive." I said softly to her. She gave me a look of curiostiy. I explained further. "Mi amor, I know you have suffered a great deal with your passed births. Perhaps the fertility problem does not lie with you." she gasped as I finished.

"What are you implying?" she asked as she sat back.

"I have heard of His Majesty's mistresses. Before you bore him Prince Henry was he having affairs?" I asked.

"Yes, he told me years after our wedding that he was pressured in sewing his royal oaths." she whispered. A lone tear rolled down her face. She knew where this conversation was going.

"Was his mistresses known for comforting other men?" I asked softly.

"Yes." she choked out. I hated to see her like this but Alex is living breathing proof that she was not the problem.

"Women can pass on diseases to anyone they sleep with, including His Majesty. There is this illness called syphilis." I said her eyes widened as she looked up to me.

***(A chronic bacterial disease that is contracted chiefly by infection during sexual intercourse, but also congenitally by infection of a developing fetus. Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease caused by the spirochetal bacterium Treponema pallidum subspecies pallidum. The route of transmission of syphilis is almost always through sexual contact, although there are examples of congenital syphilis via transmission from mother to child in utero.)***

"Infected men can unknowingly pass the disease to their wives, and if their wives are pregnant they unknowingly pass the disease to the unborn child. The end result...is loosing the child in misscarriage, still births or giving birth to a weak child that will not see six months of it's life." I carefully explained. Catalina's face was riddled with wet tears. I immediately took her back in my arms. She cried and tried her best to conceal it for she did not want to wake our sons and daughter. Bella and Nicky slept soundly in a double basinet while we watched over Alex. After realizing she spent years of believing she was the cause of the problem that her husband made her out to be, but it was infact King Henry who was the cause of the royal heirs dying.

Catalina was swept with grief at the fact that her former husband took her precious babies. She was so hurt. Catalina wept in my arms for the rest of the night. The next couple of days she was quiet and concealed herself in our chambers with the children. And slowly she opened up to me. We talked about it a little bit more. "I have had my doubts when the twins were born. Now that I think about it, I think that the only reason why Isabella and Nicolàs are here and well is becuase Anne Boleyn kept Henry away from the beds of other women. Therefore he could not have ill seed if he did not take anyone except me." she said. We continue to speak of His Majesty and got on with our day. Since then, Catalina has been in a much better mood.

Finding out she is infact firtile opened a more deeper sexuality in her. We could not lay together until she recovered from Alex's birth and the horse incident. She kisses me more and touches me more willingly. I thank God for her and eventhough she was hurt by the King, I think being married to a man who loves and cares deeply for her and her children, has strenthened her healing process.

-End Flashback-

I marvel at the sight of my wife feeding our son. Now since he was born, Bella and Nicky was given their own chambers. Jane has more than enough room for it. Their new chambers were adjacent to ours with a door to theirs so we can pass through. As Alex is being burped I walked over to the door and passed through to Bella and Nicky's chambers. When I entered, I saw Bella standing in her big crib. Nicky was chewing on one of his toys. They both stood up and made more baby noises to me.

"Hello my little girl." I cooed to Bella. I picked her up and kissed her head and place her on the floor. She and Nicky recently began to walk and now running a little bit. Nicky was holding a toy he was chewing on and through it at me, then he laughed. I laughed with him. I picked my boy out of the crib and led them both to my and their mothers chambers. When we entered the twins ran to her the best they can and hugged her knees.

"Hello mi amors." Catalina cooed.

"Baby." Nicky said with his eyes wide.

"Yes, Nicolàs. Baby. This is your baby brother." Catalina said while smiling.

"Baby is their favorite word." I said to Catalina as she lied Alex beside her.

"Yes it is. I can not wait until they start speaking more words." She said. I nodded in agreement. I picked Bella up and placed her next to Alex.

"Can you say Papa." I said to her. "Pa-pa." I drawled. As Bella was more concentrated with my shirt collar, Nicky surprised us by saying.

"Papa." Catalina and I looked at each other and laughed. She picked Nicky up and we praised him on his new found word. After we bathed all three babies and ourselves, we left our chambers and placed the twins in a play room. Jane had surprised us with it as an early birthday gift for Catalina. As we got the children situated, Catalina, Jane and I continued our last minute preparation for the twins first birthday party. We invited all Bella and Nicky's little playmates and issued in invitation to my stepdaughter Mary.

Today turned out to be a spectacular event. The twins received many gifts. They played with other children their ages, and played around the garden. The day became even more special when the Dux Divine (Latin: Divine Ruler) of Brookfield sent the twins a pair of pure bread Spanish stallions. They were only ponies, and the twins loved them. Isabella's pony is brown with a white nose, her little saddle is brown with the symbol of a royal pomegranate and a crane. The symbols are my and her mothers symbols. Nicolàs pony is onyx black with a black saddle. He had the same symbols. Both saddles were adjustable, when the horses and the children grew the saddles can be adjusted to comfort. Even the children of the divine council attended with their mothers and fathers. We were very happy they attended.

One of the council members praised us for moving in Brookfield. He went on to say that Brookfield honors Catalina and her mother Isabella Of Castile. They believe in strong woman. They even hung the royal Castilian flags along with the Divine Brookfield flags on the walls surrounding Brookfield. Catalina was grateful and thanked the council member. Later in the day it was time to sing happy birthday and blow out the candles. As we sung the twins snuck some icing from the big chocolate cake.

Then it was time to blow out the candles, which fascinated them with the bright yellow and orange colors. They huffed and puffed a few times but eventually they blew out all the candles. Everyone clapped and cheered for them. After they finished their cake, the twins opened their gifts. They received so many of them, after all of the children played around in the garden we surprised the twins with pony rides. Our servants Julia and Gretchen helped the children on their new ponies and walked them around the garden.

We even allowed other children to ride the ponies around the garden. Jane, Catalina, Mary and I sat down and got to know the other Brookfielders. We had a very good time, our fellow Brookfielders were happy to be in the presence of Princess Mary. Catalina and I planned to have the twins play with other children in the community. They played all day until dusk. When the party was over the servants began to clean the first floor of the estate. Catalina and I put the children to sleep.

They had so much energy and tired themselves out. They instantly fell asleep when their little heads fell ageist the pillows. They each held a stuffed animal in their arms. Catalina and I stayed up and talked about the children's future. Brookfield had an excellent education system. We had decided to enroll Isabella, Nicolàs, Alex and any other children we have in the Brookfield Academy for Girls and the Brookfield Academy Boys. The academies in Brookfield provided an education that is more grander than any kings of Europe or the world has ever had. After we spoke about the children's future, we went to sleep, and sleep took us peacefully.

January 31, 1537

Queen Anne

I take a deep breath as I watch Princess Mary and her archery. Henry boasts about how strong and healthy his daughter has become. He does not even pay attention to me anymore. Honestly My father and brother secretly wished those Seymour's would have killed her so Henry would love only Elizabeth and I. Even though Mary was once considered my rival, I would never want her dead. I know what people say, what they think of me. They call me a usurper and many other hurtful names. But I am not.

When I first heard that Mary was struck with an arrow, I prayed that she would get well. My father pushed Cromwell and I up to convince the king to place Elizabeth ahead of Mary in the succession. Even though I was in the conversation, Cromwell did most of the talking. It would have been nice to have my child as heiress but not at the death of another child. It would not have sat well with my conscious. Though my father would think differently. My father barks at how I am losing the king's affection. But I know Henry. He is a king and does whatever he wished.

I find myself wishing I was Katherine. Or Catalina as she now goes by. I know now that she spoke the truth when she said I would end up in the same position as she was. The same thing Henry and I did when he was still married to Katherine, I found him doing the same thing with my ladies. All of his mistresses and my fathers ranting and raving is stressing me. I fear they will put strain on my pregnancy. Like the first miscarriage. I kept it to myself but Henry's infidelities and my fathers constant barking about politics placed much strain on my pregnancy. And I fear it's happening again. As I look at Mary, playing with her bow and arrow, I could not help but be a little jealous. I heard her one day speaking about her baby brother. My father felt she was rubbing it in my face.

She knew speaking of sons is a sore subject for me. Early last year, my husband was in a jousting accident and he was knocked unconscious for some time. I was three months pregnant. His accident caused me great stress. It overwhelmed me, and I lost the baby. I was showing and everyone knew. Henry was angry, but he said he was not angry at me. He said all women go through it. But I fear not. Not all woman have miscarriages. When Dr. Linacre examined me he deemed me healthy to have more children. But when he washed and cleaned my baby it was discovered it showed signs of being a boy and deformity.

Henry was not happy about that one bit. He became more distant with me and rarely came to my bed. I sometimes feel like Katherine. As I think about Katherine, all I thought about was how badly I treated her. I made a decision, against my fathers continuous and sometimes unwanted advice, to at least become friends with her. Especially Mary, I owe her that much. She is the only sister Elizabeth knows and I would not rob Elizabeth of getting to know and love her sister. Especially since Mary is so willing. Katherine could shed some light on me and maybe I would know how to handle Henry better. Henry is seeing other women and doesn't think I know. I even see him eyeing that Seymour girl.

He asked me to place her as one of my ladies. I obeyed and I now regret it. Henry only has been kind to the Seymour's only because he wanted to show the court he was a forgiving King. He even gave the Seymour brothers a place at court. All is well though. His Majesty shall be proud of me once I deliver him a son. As I sit here in my sixth month of pregnancy, I know am carrying the Kings' son. Though I am stressed due to my husband affairs and his activities, I will try my very best to stay calm. Sometimes the baby kicks but not like Elizabeth did. I feel so raw in the pit of my belly. Henry suggested I start my lying in early. I complained but eventually I did what I was told. He wants me away so he can have his whores, but I shall have his son.

Though being Queen weighs heavily on me I find myself wondering how Katherine did it so well. One day I shall asked her. "Lunch Majesty." Madge announced. I carefully walked to the small table and sat. Madge brought me my favorite, shrimp and honey biscuits. I was craving them. I ate two servings with sweet wine. After, I became tired and was prepared for bed early. I slid in my bed and lied down. My son kicked again and I smiled rubbing my belly. Only three months until my place is secured.

February 2, 1537

As I sat on my throne I watched as my court was noisy and happy. Everyone is so happy about every little thing that has happened to them. Everyone except me. All around me my courtiers are dancing, singing, smiling, laughing. I try my best to mask my pain. The hurt that swells in me is swallowing me whole. I have been made a complete fool. This is further proof I have fallen from God. My Queen has lost my child. She is currently recovering in her chambers. After the lost of the child, Linacre said the child was male. My blood boiled at such heart breaking news. Now I am convinced that my marriage to Anne was a mistake from the beginning. I should have remained married to Katherine.

Allowing myself to divorce her was the biggest mistake of my life.

Two Days Later...

Today is February 4, and I have ordered Wolsey to make my marriage to Anne null and void. I have had my doubts about Anne. Charles told me about how her father offered Mary Boleyn to the King of France. Then he went on saying that there were rumors of Anne being offered also but he was not entirely sure. He also mentioned how he tried to tell me when I was courting her but I would not listen. A choice I now regret. Last month while Anne was still pregnant I secretly wrote to the King of France. I asked him to confide in me about Anne. He probably did not like her like the rest of Europe and would tell me the truth. Until then I shall pleasure my mistresses to get my mind off yet another dead son from Anne. Sometimes I can not stand the sight of that woman. It is a great displeasure at the very thought of her. She took me away from Katherine.

That boy she had for her husband would have been mine. As I leave my throne at court I noticed a young lady. I believe she is that Seymour girl from Wolf Castle. I wink at my page boy, he went to her and she followed him to my bedchambers. As she entered I was already in my night shirt and she went to change in a chemise. I wanted her to pleasure me, but decided against it. Katherine used to hold me at the beginning of our marriage. That is all I want, is for someone to hold me. When my chosen mistress came out of the bath chamber, I gazed at her beauty. Her long blonde hair flowed down the white chemise she changed into. She had a peaceful look. But I sense fear in her. "Do not fear me. I will not harm you." I said as she kept her eyes on the floor.

"Forgive me your Majesty, I am afraid. I have never done this before." she said ashamed of herself.

"Honestly, I wish not to take your virtue. I only wish to be held. I am in turmoil and I only ask for your comfort." I said still filled with wine. I pulled the blankets and sheets allowing her to get into bed first. I followed and relaxed on the pillows. She took me in her arms and I took her in mine. I slept comfortably in her arms. She held me like Katherine held me. I had one of the best nights sleep I had since I married Anne. When I finally awakened I felt as if all my worries was gone. I lay with her in my arms, she sleeps so peacefully. I caressed her cheek as I watched her breathe.

My touch stirred her from her slumber. She opened her blue eyes and looked at me. There was something about this woman that calmed me. I placed my hand on her chin and kissed her. Something about her touch, it is more gentle than Anne's touch. I shall keep her around me. For when I require comfort I shall call on...her. "What is your name?" I asked as I embraced her.

"Jane, Your Majesty." her voice full of sweet softness.

"I would like you to be of a comfort to me, and never fear, I shall make sure Queen Anne treats you respectfully." she nodded and hung her head.

"Your Majesty, I do not deserve such kindness from you." she said with unshed tears in her eyes.

"And why is that?" I ask confused.

"Because...it was my brothers who harmed Princess Mary." she said softly. Unbeknownst to me a tear escaped my eyes. Being reminded of almost loosing my pearl was heartbreaking. Just thinking about the four long days not knowing whether or not if she would live or die. Pain suddenly consumed me. Then I saw Jane's watery eyes. I hugged her for a few moments.

"All is well Jane, I have long since forgiven your brothers. Please, do not cry." I said as I kissed her head.

"It was my mistake for letting my wife's family speak harshly of Mary's mother. I in my drunkenness allowed it and she and I argued." I said to her. "That night she ran away, and my pearl almost was killed over my foolishness." I confessed. I never really talked about this to anyone before. Jane wiped a tear from my face. I kissed her hand and her beautiful eyes softened.

"All is well now Your Majesty. Princess Mary is healthy and safe now, and a rather skillful archer." we both laughed lightly at that. Jane smiled and laid her head against my chest.

"Thank you for comforting me Jane." I thanked her again. Soon after we went our separate ways. I began my day as usual and once I was in my office I decided to award Lady Jane her own rooms, away from the Queens apartment. Jane will like that very much. I shall choose the rooms less noticeable by everyone. There, she can comfort me in the night. My page boy appearance took me from my thoughts.

"Cardinal Wolsey, accompanied by the Duke of Suffolk, the Lord Chancellor and the royal physician Dr. Linacre." he announced and I nodded my head for their entrance to my office. Wolsey, Charles, Thomas and Linacre came and bowed to me accordingly. Their faces shown worry and if I'm not mistaken, fear.

"Your Majesty." Wolsey started as he came sat down at the table. Charles, Thomas and Linacre continued standing.

"Harry." Wolsey began while sitting back in the chair. "I have been there when you were born. I watched you grow up." he said. Then Thomas More stepped forward and spoke.

"Harry, I remember when your father, King Henry VII received news that he was blessed with yet another son. He was so happy. Not only Arthur, Prince of Wales secured England but a Duke of York. He always admired your robust health and strength. Although when Arthur passed away King Henry VII and Queen Elizabeth wept secretly. He once said to me that if you ever stepped out of line, he wished for me to correct it by telling you of your missteps. Harry I believe this conversation has been long awaiting you." Thomas said with the most serious face I have seen him in.

"Harry, I have loved you since we were boys. We only want to help you and see you happy." Charles said with a sad expression. I stood up immediately and scowled at them.

"What are you planning!" I said annoyed. Wolsey cleared his throat. "Speak!" I yelled further annoyed.

"Harry, I believe you have had mistresses before you and Katherine of Aragon were married." he started. How did he know. I had secret mistresses but was very careful. Though I really wanted to be pure on my wedding night, I took a well known mistress in secret to practice performing on to please Katherine. I took another woman to sew my royal oaths to make sure I was prepared.

"How many of your spies do you have in my palaces!" I hissed. He may have been spying for years.

"My spies are only here to protect His Majesty and the royal heirs." Wolsey stated. "We firmly believe that through your mistresses you have contracted syphilis." he said flatly. I looked at him wide eyed. How did he know what I have, what is he getting at. "Harry this disease most likely may be the cause of England's insecurity. I have became knowledgeable to the disease and it seems that a person can unknowingly pass it on to someone else. We believe that is what happened in your case. You most likely passed it to Queen Katherine." Wolsey said in one breath and continued. "Now Harry, before I say this you must know that we love you and only wish to help you." Wolsey said. I had to sit down. Just what the hell was this meeting about. "This illness is known to cause miscarriages, still births, and weak newborns. Your first wife Katherine of Aragon suffered all those misgivings. She has lost three heirs and two heiresses. With the loss of Queen Anne's heirs by you is further proof. That is the result of seven royal children lost. Of course that is with the exception of the Princesses Mary and Elizabeth. I believe we may have misdiagnosed Katherine of Aragon in her fertility." he said cautiously.

He looked at me and placed his arms one of the arm rest on the chair. The sweat on his face glistens from the sunlight through the windows. "What are you saying?" my voice was filled with a deathly calmness.

"I am sorry Henry, but we firmly believe that you are the source of the fertility issue. If you continue to sleep with infected mistresses, you will spread the disease and never have sons for England, or daughters." I felt as though I could not breathe. They were blaming me? Of course I had syphilis, but I did not know it could kill children. If I had known that, my sons the two Princes Henry's would have been here with me today. They would be teenagers. All my and Katherine's children would have been teenagers except one or two. Katherine would not have had to suffer.

"Harry, the proof is the child, Alejandro of Aragon the younger. He is proof that Katherine of Aragon, his mother is in fact fertile." Thomas said.

"We had secretly summoned Dr. Linacre here to examine you and dose you with a known concoction so you could be rid of this disease in three months time." as Wolsey said that fire shot through me. They blamed me! The fucking King of England! They blamed me for loosing the children. This can not be true. I am a king, I could not be blamed of such deaths.

"It was the women". I whispered in shock. Wolsey's eyes became down cast.

"Harry, it can not be. Two women suffered this illness. Two. I am sorry but...we have come to a decision. It is for the better if you rid yourself of this disease. Think of your future sons and daughters. Do you really wish to put their health at risk! Think of England." he reasoned.

"England! Think of England!" I repeated in anger. "Tell me, are you saying I am the cause of all my children dying?" I yelled loud enough for the guards to hear. But I did not care. How dare they accuse me. "Is that what you are saying?" I yelled again twice as loud.

"Henry we only want to help you." Thomas said. I could not take it anymore. This was too much.

"GET OUT." I bellowed loud. "Get out now before I have you all executed!" I yelled. They obeyed and exited quickly. "There is nothing wrong with me! I am the King, and there is nothing wrong with me." I screamed as I followed them, my voice scared the children and women. All eyes where now on me. I was furious. I went back in my office and slammed the door. As I sat back down I think about all I heard. As much as it hurts it all made sense. I did have syphilis but I kept it quiet. I had no idea my mistresses gave it to me. That means half the women in court has it. Katherine was blamed for my mistake, and now Anne is going through the same thing. After all I had done to Katherine. Causing our children's death, hitting her, abusing her, the rape.

She went through an insufferable marriage with me. Tears rolled down my face. My God. What have I done.

Now King Henry knows the truth. He is the source of his children dying. And Henry finally met a set of twins up close. But has no idea their his set of twins. Anne is finally coming around and Henry has met Jane. Many things will change soon. And for my Anne haters and Anne lovers, what I have planned for Anne will make both groups happy. Tell me what you think of Innocents Lost. And I will give certain reviewers a bit of advise. Don't drink so much haterade. It is not becoming of you. Lol.