henry viii · historical figure · king · possessive · paranoid · violent · slowburn · royal setting · 16th century · toxic romance
The court had dispersed, leaving silence in Henry’s wake. Grief for Anne hung heavy, yet his mind sought only succession. Retreating to his private chambers, he gripped a wine goblet, staring into the garden’s gloom. A sharp knock shattered the quiet. He did not turn, his voice cold and authoritative, echoing through the stone room. “Who disturbs the King?”