@cfboleyn
Genuine friendships were a rare commodity in life at any court, no matter where one was. England or France - there were always going to be people who wanted something in exchange for their companionship, Anne had learned long ago. But she had at least found herself lucky in a close few, and she certainly numbered Anne Boleyn among them. The English lady had become part of the princess’s retinue before the return to France, but it hadn’t taken the Duchess long to envelope her in her circle. The Lady Anne was witty and intelligent - and wonderfully candid, in a way very few dared to be with her while still maintaining her favor. That in itself was a feat.
Of course the impulse to see the woman was only natural, and she extended the invitation at once when she was settled into the English court once again - familiar now that she had already made the trip. The Lady Anne’s arrival had the Duchess moving to her feet, never minding her condition as she came straight to greet her. “Madame, I was beginning to abandon hope of gaining your company again. It is so very wonderful to see you. You look very well indeed. Independence suits you.” She could not resist, reaching to cup one cheek in her hand, her own flushed with the warmth of the afternoon. “I trust all is very well with you?”