Contains spoilers for this episode and earlier episodes.
Christmas brings Anne of Cleves back to court as the king's accepted sister, offering a rare example of a former queen who can return safely. Henry's changing view of her is warmer than his response during their marriage, and she makes an effort to welcome Catherine Howard rather than treat her as a rival. After Henry withdraws early, Anne invites Catherine to dance, creating a public display of good relations. Mary refuses to share that ease and leaves pointedly. Upstairs, the king's painful leg keeps him away from the celebration, with Culpeper attending him in the intimate work of tending a sick ruler.
The same access gives Culpeper a dangerous route towards Catherine. Jane Rochford has heard enough about the queen's past from Joan Bulmer to understand that she has knowledge worth using, and Culpeper draws her into his plans. Catherine struggles to settle while her husband lies ill, then asks Jane about the man whose attention she keeps remembering. Jane actively encourages a private meeting and promises secrecy she cannot guarantee. Joan helps lead Culpeper through the back passages to the queen's rooms. The visit brings Catherine the romantic attention she wants while Henry remains alone, slowly recovering. Several people in the household now share the responsibility for concealing a meeting that none of them can safely explain to him.