A/N: Guys I promised that I would never abandon this, but it's been SO LONG since I posted an update-please forgive me. I'm going to be trying to jump right back in, but mapping out dates/timelines has never been my strong suit and for it being SUCH a long time since I was invested in this story, please forgive me if there's no continuity (i.e. I know where my characters at at some points, but I'm just going to pick up during a random time of the year) Hopefully fans of this fic will be willing to overlook whatever hiccup in the timeline. I'm rereading and it looks like a few chapters ago it was winter, so lets say it's spring time now!

He had succeeded! As his carriage was pulled through the streets of London, he couldn't help the smile that tugged at his lips. After more than two years away from court, shuttled around the countryside to solve this problem or that, the king had finally recalled him. Cromwell had been nervous that after his failure to properly predict the outcome that the monastary closures, the king would never bring him back into his confidence. And while Henry's summons made no mention of a formal position at court like he had lost, it was a step in the right direction. Cromwell was sure that before long, his work ethic would once again impress the king.

"And what has you grinning like a cat over there, Thomas?" his companion's teasing voice interrupted his thoughts of grandeur.

Cromwell glanced over at Hal and thought again how much healthier he looked. Despite having wasted years under the heel of his sharp tongued wife, Hal's boyish charm had never left him. Now that the wretched woman was tucked away and banished from the hills of Northumberland, the spark was returning to the duke's eyes. While the king had not invited Hal to accompany Cromwell, there had not been a response when he had written asking if his friend could join him. Court would certainly do the young, bachelor duke well and honestly, Cromwell was pleased to have his friend join him in that snake pit. He would not forget the likes of Norfolk and Whiltshire. Having a prominent duke who was kindly disposed towards him on the council would only serve him well.

"Well my dear Hal, I was just reflecting on how I can now dispose of that horrid sable I have been clinging to ever since I joined you at Petworth House. It was the only thing that kept me alive in that frozen wasteland you call home, but Lord knows how badly it has needed a good brushing." Hal chuckled and held up his hands in mock surrender.

"And who was the one who came north with one paltry fur to keep himself warm? That's all I'm saying." Thomas snorted before glancing out the window again, watching the familiar London businesses pass.

"Your hospitality was more than generous, but do not hate me for saying it is good to be back in the city. And at such a time! The best to be at court." Lent was finally over and spring was upon them. The air still held a small chill, but the sun warmed their skin and he knew the whole court would be excited to use the opportunity to flock to the gardens and surrounding lands to enjoy the fresh air. It was a time for merriment and would be the perfect opportunity for Hal to catch some worthy lady's eye. Not only would Cromwell be happy to help his friend in this regard, he couldn't help but think that the queen would be interested. Why else would she have orchestrated the investigation into Mary Talbot's actions? She must have wanted Henry Percy free of his shrew wife for a reason. And Cromwell would work to make himself indispensable to Jane just as he had once been to Anne.

The carriage continued through the city streets until they came upon Whitehall palace, Henry's (and Cromwell's) favorite royal residence. As they were greeted in the courtyard and led into the palace, Cromwell couldn't help but think that he was returning home. He belonged here, at the side of a powerful ruler, pulling strings and making things happen. He had thought his power lost, but here he was again. He would not lose again.

Hal and he separated to be shown to their new chambers. Cromwell knew that while his chambers were sure to be well outfitted and conveniently placed, as a noble peer, Hal's rooms would be some of the best in the palace. Cromwell followed the groom to a set of modestly furnished, though suitable rooms and changed from his riding gear. Then he made his way to the royal presence chamber, where he reunited with Hal, who looked dashing in a dark green doublet. Cromwell glanced as his friend, seeing again that despite their friendship, there were leagues between them. Hal was a man who had been born for greatness. His finery was not ostentatious like that of Norfolk, who seemed determined to flaunt his wealth and status, but the fabric was expensive and it was perfectly tailored to the man. Next to him, Cromwell looked like he always had- a low born clerk. But that is what he had always aimed for. No one suspected a servant, he was underestimated by all.

"My lords?" a groom approached them, "The king will see you now".

Cromwell had been received by the king multiple times over his years of service, but that didn't stop him from feeling nervous each time. So much pomp and procedure was to be observed and while men like Hal were raised observing them, Cromwell had to learn it all. Still, he was a worldly man and walked into the room with his head held high.

The presence chamber was relatively full, something that pleased Cromwell. Let them all see him returned and welcomed into the King's inner circle. He approached the dais and bowed deeply to his sovereign before the king greeted him.

"Master Cromwell, you are welcome back to court" Henry smiled at him. "May I present my wife, Queen Jane." Cromwell's eyes shifted to the woman he had placed on the throne and he bowed again, smiling up at her. Jane may not boast the vivid beauty of Anne Boleyn or even the natural regal energy of Katherine of Aragon, but she was a sweet looking thing. Soft blonde hair the color of fresh butter framed her face, held in place by a jeweled diadem. Around her neck were ropes of opalescent pearls, which also dangled from her ears. Her loose gown was a lovely mint green, which highlighted the lightness of her blue eyes. Cromwell couldn't help but notice how her gown left ample space for a growing body and as Jane smiled and welcomed him, her hand drifted towards her belly, confirming Cromwell's suspicion.

"Your Majesty," he bowed deeply to her as well "May I offer you my sincerest congratulations on your condition." Jane smiled and nodded before both of their attention drifted to Henry, who seemed distracted, his gaze fixed on Hal. After just a moment's pause, he snapped out of whatever haze he was in, offering Hal a smile that exuded less warmth than the one he had offered Cromwell.

"Your Grace," he clipped, greeting him. Hal swept into another deep bow and grinned roguishly at both royals.

"Your majesties," he seemed undaunted by the cool greeting and instead moved to also congratulate Jane. "May God bless your majesties with a healthy heir to the throne. Perhaps, if he is a boy, you may call him Henry. After your favorite Duke of couse." Hal winked and several courtiers snickered at his jest. Jane herself smiled genially and welcomed him to court, but Henry's lips only tweaked. Another heartbeat passed before Jane smoothly stepped in.

"I hope, my lords, you will join us for the upcoming Mayday celebrations," her soft voice was welcoming and Cromwell nodded.

"Of course, your majesty. Hal here has been talking about the jousting field the entire ride from Northumberland. I'm sure by now, I could regal you with every detail of his successes and failures!" Cromwell clapped a hand on Hal's shoulder who laughed heartily, along with most of the court. Even the king barked a laugh before turning again to them with a gleam in his eye.

"I look forward to watching you compete, Your Grace," to Cromwell, it sounded like a challenge.

"And I look forward to winning, Your Majesty"