~ | The Tudors |~

~ Chapter 23 ~

"How you feeling today?" Henry asked referring to my stomach bug. He wouldn't admit it but he has been concerned, but he always worries even when there is nothing to worry about.

I came over and gave him a small squeeze. "Still somewhat sick, but getting better." My words put him at ease and his visibly relaxed.

The trumpet began to play indicated the joust was about to commence. I smiled as excitement rushed through me. I clap my hands a few times in joy. Making Henry laugh slightly at my antics.

"Don't laugh. It my first joust in a long time. The French jousted, but it's not the same as an English jousting competition. There no drama and blood shed." Henry held his hands up in surrender but still continued to chuckle.

I gave him a fake mean eye before exiting his tent. My laddies were gathered outside waiting for me. Some of the nobles were trying to fill them up with flirtatious gestures and conversation.

"Come laddies, we must make haste to our seats." I spoke and began walking knowing they will be following my trail. As predicted they were quick to ditch the noble men and came rushing to my side.

"Don't let the man today try and butter you up, laddies. Make them work for your hand." I teased earning chuckles from behind me.

I made my way over to my throne in the middle of the seats that surrounded the field. The other throne next to me sat empty. One of my laddies brought me over a warm thick wool blanket. I gave her a small thanks under my breath covering myself up.

It might not be winter yet, but the fall weather has been kicking England in the buttocks this season. The air today held a crisp to it. Luckily the sun was out and shining proudly. Giving us some warmth.

"Your Majesty." I turned to be faced by Charles who gave me a small bow. Next to him was my lady in waiting Joan. They have gotten very close to each other and I hope a wedding is in due course.

"Charles! Lady Joan!" I chirped in happiness. "How delightful to see you two together." A blush spread across her face.

"Thank you, Elizabeth. I came to bring Joan to her seat before the competition begins." He helped Joan sit in one of the chair behind me. My other laddies cued and awed at Charles affection to Joan.

I watched from the corner of my eye not wanting to embrace Joan. I know she is a very shy girl and doesn't like all the attention to be upon her.

Soon my nausea returns once more. I put my left hand to my mouth to try and conceal it from the crowd. "Lady Anne. Fetch me a goblet of ale I am become parched."

Lady Anne was quick in fetching what I requested. I took a gentle sip and my sickness was soon gone, for now.

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Sadly the competition came to a quick end. Of course Henry won and George surprisingly made it to the semi final round before being tagged out.

Everyone was cheering over the victory of their king, as they made are ways to the parties. I sent my laddies away to go have some fun and spend sometime away from waiting on me.

Besides I'm sitting behind a table with kitchen boys to sever on me hand and foot. There would be no need for them to cater to me when they could mingle and enjoy today.

My eyes were covered by an unknown persons hands, but as soon as the person spoke I knew who it was. "Did you miss me?" Mary spoke in a teasing voice sitting next to me on my right.

"Of course. Where were you during the joust?" I questioned. I look for her during the entire joust and never spotted her once.

"William wanted to mingle among the jousters. We bounced in between tents. He was slightly disappointed we didn't get to greet the king in person." She spoke taking a grape and popping it into her mouth.

"Well he will get his turn. I made sure Henry will have time to have an introduction with the new viscount. Now where are my niece and nephew?" I questioned looking around the piling crowd of people.

"Catherine is dancing with her father." Mary pointed to them on the dance floor. "And Henry is playing outside with the other young boys."

"I bet he loves that. Better than playing with his sister all the time." My food was soon placed in front of me and food was also placed in front of Mary.

My plate contained venison with a side of vegetables and a cooked potato. Though I could not look at it for long before my stomach started to twist at the venison.
"Please take my plate and would you be a dear and fetch me some fruits." I spoke to one of the servant boys who quickly responded.

Mary noticed and held a concern look on her face. "You well Elizabeth?" She questioned.

I turned to her and held a smile." Yes, just been nauseous lately and everything meat related makes my stomach flip." My words had Mary have a look of shock on her face. "Elizabeth are you.." I cut her off

"Yes, I am with child. I wasn't certain tell a few days ago when I missed my second monthly course. I wanted to wait in order to be certain. Please keep this to yourself. I haven't told Henry yet." I whispered so no ease droppers couldn't hear.

Mary nodded her head in happiness before letting a little squeak out before containing herself.

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Hey guys!

What do you think it will be? A boy or girl? Or will she miscarry like he sister? ———->

Bye for now 👋