Book 2: One True Happiness

Chapter 1

NOTE: I DO NOT OWN REIGN. FOR ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY.

                                                                                                   Bash

He will always just be his father's son, his brother's confidant, and Mary's good friend; the favored son of King Henry from his longtime mistress, Diane de Poitiers. Bash is known at court as the smart, adventurous, and good-looking half-brother of Francis, the future King of France. Despite their different stations, they managed to establish a good and trusting relationship as they grew up together in the castle. The older Bash took Francis under his wing; teaching him archery, hunting, swordplay and how the real world works. The former always looks out for the young prince and is genuinely concern with his welfare. Bash have long accepted the fact that he can never be king. He harbors no resentment regarding this matter and is more than thankful and content with his state until one night, he saw Mary dancing gracefully during the festivities. He felt like suddenly waking up from a deep sleep, seeing the beautiful Scottish Queen for the first time. Clearly, he cannot pursue his brother's fiancée, but he cannot help but wonder, what if? What if he is a legitimate son of the king? Will Mary give him the same attention that she gives Francis? Will she give him the time of day to just enjoy the simple things in life? His thoughts are suddenly interrupted by a question, "Bash? Bash? Are you with me?" Francis asks worriedly as he looks to his direction while fitting his new attire in front of the mirror. "I am sorry, what?" Bash answers. "I was asking for your opinion about this attire. Will it please her?" Bash stood up, walked towards Francis and nodded. The prince smiles with his approval. "I want to look my best. I have not seen her for six months. I know it is her duty to visit Scotland and to see her mother, but I missed her terribly."

                                                                                           The Reunion

Francis cannot hide his impatience from waiting. He's been looking out the window more frequently as time passes by. "Will you please take a sit?" Says Bash. "I can't help it. What do you think is taking her so long? She should be here by now." Francis replies as he pace back and forth. "Why am I even asking you? You, who do not  understand how it feels to be deeply involve with someone else!" "On the contrary, I do." Bash says teasingly. "Oh, so finally someone had successfully caught your eye... Would she happen to be the maiden named Lola? Tell me, have you revealed your intentions?" Francis curiously asks as he finally sits beside him. "Intentions? Me? Of all people you know me best. I am not capable of loving just one woman." Bash answers.  The prince sighs. "Bash, sooner or later, you will find your match. She will turn your world upside down -- like what Mary did to me. The truth is, we are all servants when it comes to love." Finally they hear the sound of an approaching carriage. "That must be her!" Francis exclaims as he stands up and quickly runs down the stairs, goes outside and meet Mary. He rush towards her, carries her, then turns her around. "Mary, I have no idea that I would miss you this much." He says. "I missed you too Francis." Mary wraps her arms around his neck and kiss him. "So, what news do you bring from Scotland?" The prince asks as they begin to walk towards the castle. "The borders remain secure and Queen Elizabeth has kept her promise of peace. Also, my mother would like it very much if we both can pay her a visit this summer." Says Mary. "Well, that can be easily arranged. I am looking forward to finally meet her in person." Francis happily replies. Unbeknownst to them is a young man who is staring quietly at the window, watching how happy they are together.