The Queen's Gambit tells the story of a rekindled obsession as King Henry VIII reunites with his childhood companion, the captivating Princess Eleanor, who has just returned to England from Italy. Once close, their bond now ignites into a dangerous...
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The next day
Eleanor's soft footsteps echoed through the grand corridors of the palace as she made her way to Henry's private study. She had spent the morning perfecting every detail—her hair carefully arranged, her gown a soft shade of blue that complemented her skin, her expression one of gentle concern. Today was important. Today, she would cement her position beside the king in a way Catherine had failed to for years.
As she reached the door to Henry's study, she paused, smoothing her gown before knocking lightly. She waited just a moment, then entered with a serene grace that immediately caught Henry's attention.
Henry looked up from the stack of documents spread across his desk, his tense expression dissolving the moment he saw her. "Eleanor," he said warmly, standing up from his chair with a smile. "You are always a breath of fresh air in this place."
Eleanor offered him a soft, knowing smile as she moved closer, her steps deliberate and elegant. "Your Majesty," she said, her voice soothing, "you flatter me too much. It is you who are the light of this kingdom, and I am just fortunate to be near it."
Henry chuckled, stepping around his desk to meet her, his eyes lingering on her in a way that suggested he found her presence not only calming but invigorating. He reached out and took her hand, lifting it to his lips for a gentle kiss. "Eleanor, you bring more than light. You bring comfort, and these days, I need it more than ever."
Eleanor allowed her eyes to soften as she gazed up at him, her voice dropping to a whisper. "I can see the burden you carry, Your Majesty. It must be so difficult, running a kingdom while others bicker and fail to see your vision."
Henry sighed, letting go of her hand but keeping his gaze fixed on hers. "It is unbearable, Eleanor. The council... the lords quarrel and argue like children, each one more concerned with his own holdings than the future of England. And Catherine..."
His voice trailed off, his expression hardening at the mention of his wife. Eleanor seized the opportunity, her touch light as she placed her hand on his arm, her eyes full of sympathy. "I cannot imagine how trying it must be for you, Your Majesty. To lead, to bear the weight of this kingdom alone..."
Henry's gaze softened as he looked down at her, his irritation easing in the face of her gentle words. "You understand me, Eleanor. Better than anyone."
Eleanor gave a soft smile, though inside, her mind was already calculating. "If I could do more, I would, Your Majesty," she said, her tone gentle but purposeful. "In fact..." She hesitated for a moment, as if uncertain whether to continue. "I wondered if I might observe today's council meeting. Just to listen, of course. I wouldn't dream of speaking. I only want to understand better how the affairs of state are managed. It would help me support you more, in private moments."
