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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Eleanor walked through the sprawling gardens of the new estate, her silk gown whispering against the carefully manicured grass as a gentle breeze swept through the trees. The estate had been a recent gift from the king—a grand gesture meant to win her favor and, hopefully, her forgiveness for whatever slight he thought he had committed. It was magnificent, of course. The king spared no expense when it came to her, and this estate was the most lavish yet.
But Eleanor, ever in control, knew that her forgiveness wasn't something to be given easily. After all, keeping him wanting was how she maintained her power.
As she meandered along a path lined with roses, their scent heavy in the evening air, Eleanor felt a presence approaching. She turned to see Edward Seymour, his tall figure moving gracefully through the garden. His dark eyes lit up when he saw her, and Eleanor's pulse quickened ever so slightly. Edward had become a constant presence in her life since she left court, and their connection had grown deeper, more complicated.
"Eleanor," he greeted softly, his voice filled with a warmth that sent a shiver down her spine. He always said her name like it was something precious.
"Edward," she responded with a smile, her eyes bright with a mix of affection and mischief. "I didn't expect to see you here. I thought I was enjoying these gardens alone."
"I thought I'd see how you were settling into your new estate," Edward said, taking a step closer, his gaze lingering on her face. "The king certainly knows how to spoil you."
"Does he?" Eleanor asked, her smile widening as she gazed up at him through her lashes. "Or perhaps he's trying to win back something that was never truly his to begin with."
Edward chuckled, though there was a seriousness in his gaze. "If that's the case, he's fighting a losing battle. You're far too independent for anyone to own, Eleanor."
Eleanor's smile softened, and for a moment, the playful banter between them gave way to something deeper, more intimate. She stepped closer to him, her fingers brushing against his arm. "Is that why you're here, Edward? To remind me of how unattainable I am?"
Edward's breath hitched as her fingers lingered on his skin. "I don't need to remind you. You already know."
There was a tension between them now, thick and undeniable. Eleanor's heart began to race, not with nerves but with excitement. She had known for a long time how Edward felt about her, and while she had always flirted innocently with him, tonight felt different. There was something in the air—something that made her want to push the boundaries just a little further.
"Maybe," Eleanor said softly, stepping even closer until she was inches away from him, her gaze locked on his, "I'm not as unattainable as you think."
Edward's eyes darkened with desire, and before either of them could say another word, his hand reached up to gently cup her cheek. Eleanor leaned into his touch, her heart pounding in her chest as the tension between them finally broke.
