The Mistress of King Henry VIII

Chapter Three: The Queen Gives Birth

Victoria of Cambridge

February 1st, 1518

I stepped out of my living quarters with Emilia walking on the side of me. I nodded politely to all those who bowed to me. I have been at court for over two weeks now and I never wanted to leave.

"Vicky." A voice called out and I turned around and saw Henry.

"Your Majesty," I said with a slight smile as I bowed to him. When I stood up he took my hand in his and kissed it.

"You look lovely today." He said and I smiled as we began walking through the courtyard. For the past two weeks at court I have taken daily walks with Henry and he has made sure my father brought me along to one meeting a day.

"I heard from one of the guards the Queen is in labor," I said and I watched as Henry smiled.

"Yes, she is. I had just come from visiting her when I saw you walking with your lady." He said and I nodded.

"Yes, Your Majesty this is my head lady Emilia," I said and Emilia bowed her head. Henry nodded at her before we continued our walk before we got to a bench in the middle. Henry sat down first before patting the spot next to him.

"What do you think is the Queen is having?" I asked as I held onto my cloak Emilia handed me.

"I do hope it is a boy. England does need a Prince of Wales." He said and I smiled.

"With every good King by his side is a Great Queen," I said and Henry smiled softly at me.

"I remember your father saying to me your birthday is this month," Henry began and I nodded as I watched the children walk by.

"My birthday is the fourteenth. I was born on St. Valentine's Day." I stated with a smile.

"We must celebrate it properly then. You should come to dine with me alone. I do sometimes get tired of the feast every night." He said and I smiled softly.

"I would love that Your Majesty," I said and Henry shook his head.

"I have told you numerous of times Victoria. You may call me Henry." He said and I raised an eyebrow softly.

"You call Vicky which is a childhood name I have. Did anyone ever call you Harry?" I asked and he smiled softly.

"My mother did. When I was around Mary's age." He said with a smile.

"May I call you Harry?" I asked and he nodded before we turned and saw one of the physicians and two ladies walking towards us. I looked at Henry who took a deep breath and stood up.

"Your Majesty, Queen Catherine has delivered a beautiful baby girl." The physician said and I turned to Henry who looked angry.

"But?" He asked and the physician shared a look with one of the ladies.

"The baby is very sick Your Majesty. She was not due until the end of the month. We do not believe she will survive the night." She said and I stood up and stepped in front of Henry as if to protect him.

"Enough. He has heard enough." I said and the two bowed before walking away. I turned to Henry who looked as if was in tears.

"You have to go to Cathrine. You need to be beside her." I whispered as I stood in front of him.

"I cannot go to her again. I cannot comfort her while another of my child dies." He said and I shook my head.

"Henry you must. She is your wife. If it will help I will go with you." I said and Henry stared at me and my heart broke as I saw tears in his eyes.