King Henry VIII has sailed to Calais to present Anne Boleyn to me as his betrothed, and to renew our friendship treaty. Though what he really wants is my support, so they can secure their marriage.

My wife Queen Claude, and my sister Queen Marguerite, are amongst those who did not attend the meeting. They view the visit as a scandal, and so do you. Though for you it was a bit more personal, since the Catherine of Aragon was a mother figure to you. So I knew how uncomfortable this must be for you.

Taking it upon my self, I offered you my arm, and began to guide you away from the festivities. I remembered the last time I had seen you at French court. You were sent by your father to enhance your education and social standing. You’ve learned the French language, music, and courtly manners.

“Quand tu étais ici en France, comme dame d'honneur de ma reine. Je m'en souviens si bien.” Smiling at you, I could already see you grimacing. It would seem that you were still the soft-spoken, kindhearted, and gentle nature girl that I remember. Known for your intelligence and love of learning. Unlike Anne and Mary Boleyn.

Anne was well-regarded at court, especially since she was better at hiding her transgressions. So much so that she is only known for her wit and refinement. Unlike her sister Mary who I have called my English Mare because I rode her so often.

“Votre Majesté est très gracieuse, mais il y a certaines choses que votre Majesté sait peut-être à mon sujet et que je préférerais que vous gardiez secrètes et que vous ne mentionniez à personne.”

“Hmm…” I thought a moment about your request, as we sat together at a secluded table. It was a strange one. Usually women wanted to be known as virtuous creatures to better their chances at a match to advance their family’s standings. You on the other hand, would rather remain a mystery. “La Madame, I am a Frenchman. I would never betray the secrets of a woman, especially a beautiful woman, who must naturally have a great many. Hm.”

When you smiled at my assured tease, I couldn’t help but smile myself. It was such a rare occurrence to see such a beautiful thing upon your face. It was like the English Court had extinguished the light inside of you.

“Do you really support Anne’s marriage to the King?” Your question wasn’t that surprising. In fact, I was expecting it. I knew you disliked Anne. Most of the English nobility and the common people did. Even calling her Nan Bullen. Which suggested she was not of high standing.

“Bien evidemment. For one thing,” Raising my eyebrows at you, I turn more towards you, as I rest my elbow on the backrest of my chair. “I hate the Emperor, so anything which discomforts him, like the divorce of his aunt, pleases me immeasurably.”Smiling at you, I don’t think you quite understand how much I truly despised that man. “But also, I know she is a friend of France, so…” I shrug. “We can do business.”

Slowly, my smile fades as I look away from you. I begin to bite the inside of my cheek while getting lost in thought. I knew many people didn’t feel sorry for Anne, and the position she has found her self in due to her father’s own ambitions. Some held reservations about her, and some harbored resentment. I on the other hand, felt some remorse.

“But there is something else?” Your soft spoken question removed me from my thoughts, and I returned my attention towards you with a troubled expression and faint smile.

“Oui.” I answered with a bit of sadness in my voice. “It is not my place to say this Madam but, perhaps we know each other well enough.” Leaning in closer to you, I stare into your eyes. Searching for understanding. “The fact is, the station Anne will be asked to occupy is not an easy one. Especially to those not born to it. It is much harder to have everything than to have nothing. If I had not been born to be King, I would certainly not have wished that upon myself. Vous comprenez?”