His Constant Reminder

Chapter Eight

(Early, 1509)

Harry's plan to finally consummate his relationship with Rose was put on hold after meeting with her father. He wanted it to be special for both of them and had been working on a plan. A week after meeting with Rose's father, the princess Catherine was brought to court. Rose was less than thrilled with Catherine's arrival but she had to put on a façade. Princess Catherine was beautiful, no one could deny it but in Harry's eyes Rose was more beautiful. Harry's meeting with the princess Catherine was not pleasant. Catherine had heard the rumors of Harry's affections for Rose. Catherine was angry to say the least. She had wanted this marriage to be happy and have Henry be faithful. Though her time with Arthur was limited, they were happy. She believed their marriage would have been a happy and successful one if Arthur had lived. With Catherine being in the palace, Rose did not want to consummate their relationship.

Rose tried to ignore Catherine's presence as much as possible while being as respectful as she had to be. Catherine was a princess and Rose was the daughter of a viscount. Catherine could have her punished for any disrespect despite Rose being Henry's mistress.

"When will she leave, Harry?" Rose asks.

"Not for a while, my love." Harry replies, kissing her head.

"I wish she could leave." Rose says, angrily.

"I know, my love. Maybe I can arrange for us to go somewhere else." Harry states.

Harry hugs Rose tightly. He knew she was upset and there was not much that he could do. Catherine is to be his wife and he could not send her from the court. His father would not allow it. He could hopefully allow Harry to take Rose away from court for a short time. Harry kissed Rose before leaving to speak with his father.

"I wish to speak with my father." Harry tells the guard outside his father's chambers.

The guard leaves and returns, motioning for Harry to enter. Harry walks quickly in and looks around for his father.

"Harry, I'm in my office!" His father yells.

Harry walks into his father's office. His father was reading over some papers.

"What is it that you need, son?" The older Henry asks, barely looking up from his papers.

"Is it okay if I take Rose away from court for a week? She needs some time away and I wish to go with her." Harry replies, nervously.

"Where is it that you wish to go?"

"York Place."

"You may go. You must bring your guards and bring a few extra for Rose. You may leave as soon as your preparations are done." His father states.

"Thank you, father." Henry replies.

Harry walks quickly back to Rose's chambers. He found her lying in bed reading.

"Pack your things, love." Harry says with a huge smile on his face.

"Why? Where are we going?" Rose asks.

"York Place. My father has allowed us to go for a week."

Rose lets out a huge smile and immediately gets out of bed. She calls for her two ladies to begin packing. She motions for Harry to sit on the bed beside her. She leans into him, happily. They were finally going to have some time to themselves. No Catherine to worry about.

Rose went to her sister's chambers to tell her of the news. Rose knew what would happen once they were alone. She wanted to be prepared and know what to do.

"Sister, how are you?" Cecily asks.

"I am well, and how are you?" Rose replies, placing a hand on Cecily's small bump.

"We are well." Cecily smiles.

"I need some advice.." Rose murmurs.

"What is it?"

"Harry and I are going to York Place for a week. His majesty has allowed it. I know what will happen there now that we will be alone. What should I do?" Rose asks.

Cecily lets out a soft laugh and takes her sister's hands in hers. She smiled at her, it was a somewhat sad smile. Her little sister was growing up.

"It will hurt a little at first, I'm afraid. It should not last too long, the pain. After the pain subsides, it will feel better and you will begin to enjoy it. I am assuming his highness has no experience as well. There will be some mistakes but you both will learn." Cecily says.

"How long will it hurt?"

"Hopefully not long. There will be some blood as well. Do not be alarmed by it. It is just something that happens."

"What else? How do I make it enjoyable for Harry?" Rose asks.

"It depends. Harry might want to be in control because it is the first time for both of you. I would allow him to take control. As you both learn each other's bodies, you will figure out what to do. To start you can kiss him and then slowly start moving down to his jaw then to his neck. If you suck slightly on the skin it will leave a slight bruise on the skin. If his highness seems to enjoy it, you will know it." Cecily states, looking away from her.

She could not look at her sister while talking about this topic. It was not an appropriate conversation for noblewomen.

"I will not go into any more detail. It is not an appropriate conversation for noble ladies. As time goes on, you both shall learn."

"I understand, sister. Thank you." Rose replies.

Rose hugged her sister before leaving for her chambers. When she returned she found a chest sitting by the end of the bed. She opened it and saw it was filled with her gowns and necessities for the week.