Jane Seymour Part 2
Only a few days later I am leaving my home to go and live at the English court for an uncertain length of time. I worry about leaving this place in which I have so often felt trapped. Living life inside my head. Making up stories and fairy tales of which I have wanted to belong.
As I look at the window at the passing countryside I can't help but think about the King. I am uncertain of the role I am to play in his life if any. I have heard of powerful men taking a mistress who they brush of once they are finished with them. I do not want to become one of those ladies. However, I am also unsure as to whether I want to be his wife. Do I want to be Queen. I am not the sort of person to become Queen. I am quiet and shy. Not powerful and strong willed. I have not been blessed with such skills. I could be a good wife I am sure of that. That is the job I have worked hard for for my whole life. Never did it cross my mind that the man in which I may one day marry would be the King. The King who has already brushed aside one wife for another and is looking to do it once more. Do I want to do that to a woman? Do I want to be the person to break apart two people? Nothing stops the King from getting rid of a third wife and what if I can't provide him with his much desired son? What would become of me then?
These thoughts that haunt me as I travel are mixed with feelings of happiness and pride. A feeling stirs in my stomach as I think about the fact that any man likes me let alone the King of England. As I lay my head against the side of the carriage in an attempt to close my eyes and fall asleep for a while I can't help but let a small smile escape my lips.
We get there late in the afternoon. I am shown to some chambers in which have been assigned to me. I have brought a few of my own servants who will wait upon me during my stay. I settle in as my clothes are being unpacked. I know that there is a banquet and dance being held this evening in which my father has told me that I am to attend. I have picked out a gown to wear this evening. It was a plain dress both in style and colour but I liked it all the same. I had never been one to boast in my appearance nor in my conduct. I had always been plain little Jane. That's what my brother Edward would call me when we were children anyway. I took some time to rest before the events of the evening.
My maid finished tying up the back of my new dress. I look in the full length mirror analysing my appearance. I wasn't even sure that I would see the king tonight. Just then I hear a know on the door and my brother appears there. He tells me that he will escort me downstairs. I take a deep breath as I hold on to my stomach which is already filled with butterflies. Never in my life had I experienced anything like this. " Don't worry Jane. If you see the King all you need to do is bat your eyelids and smile." he says with a chuckle. Edward's attempt at comforting me is pretty feeble but it somewhat amuses me as I link my arm with his as we walk out the door.