THE HEIGHT OF HER POWER

A great queen's pride collides with her passion. Is this the beginning of Anne's downfall? Please comment nicely!

The pretty blonde with the meek expression was just straightening up the bedroom when Anne walked in.

"Who are you?" Queen Anne frowned, instantly throwing back her shoulders to display all her beauty and majesty to the insignificant little nobody who was making up her bed. For some reason the dull but lush-figured blonde was laying a clean white towel over the sumptuous velvet bedclothes.

"Jane Seymour, Your Majesty." It always pleased Anne Boleyn to see how deeply other girls bowed to her when she put on her frowning face. At least this mousy little Jane had been well trained. It was fun to watch the girl bend her knees and sink all the way down – so low that Anne could see the tops of her firm breasts and the deep valley men were always so keen to explore.

Any man looking at Mistress Jane would naturally think of such things. Men were all the same. But why should she be thinking of such things while looking at another woman?

"What is your business here with us, Mistress Jane?" Anne's bold, saucy challenge was meant to remind the girl that she was insignificant, a nobody. But the queen's voice cracked as she averted her gaze from that oddly enticing bosom.

"I beg Your Majesty's pardon . . . I did not mean to intrude! But the king – that is, His Majesty has ordered – that I am to serve in your bedchamber."

"Does the king think to change my ladies without telling me?" Anne was glad to feel anger surge through her, replacing her odd thoughts. She was a queen, at the height of her power.

"No, Your Majesty! Your ladies are still close by. The king has only sent me to serve you in whatever way you see fit!"

"Really? Then I suppose I must find work for you." Anne shrugged her shoulders. "Here, help me out of this dress."

"Yes, Your Majesty. I have already drawn your bath and – and afterwards I will be pleased to serve you in every way."

The girl was nervous, Anne could tell. While her gown was being unlaced, she could hear Jane breathing. She could even feel the warmth of each breath on her bare shoulders. It made her feel powerful to know she could order the girl to do anything she wished. For a long time she lay in her bath with her eyes closed, picturing Jane Seymour at her mercy. Of course there was no reason to harm such a mousy girl. Henry Tudor liked girls with fire, spirit and intelligence.

Anne knew her position at his side was utterly secure.

"Does Your Majesty wish for a massage?"

"Eh?" Anne opened one eye. She had been dozing and had nearly forgotten the sweet-faced blonde with the soft voice. She was certain that Henry would never want such a timid creature – but it would do no harm to keep an eye on the girl.

The Queen of England was at the height of her power. She enjoyed her massage, and afterwards fell into a deep sleep. She didn't even notice when shy Jane Seymour slipped away.