"If you weren't so much of a martyr, we would not be in this situation—why are you so selfless, why did you desire to be a different kind of ruler when that would cost you your head?" Francis whispered against the wall, unable to see the beaten state of his wife.—Starts 3x05. Francis survives, which creates a possibility for a Bourbon-ruled France and a new marriage for Queen Mary.

AU. After spending years in hiding from the English, Mary returns to French court to formalize her engagement to Francis. Mary is immediately drawn to Francis and dreams of surrendering herself to him, but the forbidden fruit of temptation is more ripe than either of them believe. Rated M for language, adult themes, and strong sexual content.