Stephanie sat at her desk, holding a gold stone under a magnifying glass. Her many science books were open and strewn across the table. A princess had very few options for hobbies, but the chose the one she found the most interesting; science.

Suddenly, there was a knock at the door. She looked up. "Come in!" She said. The door opened to reveal none other than Matthew, her long-time devoted tutor. Matthew was a young man, only about 28, *Yes, I know he's older NOW, but this age works better for the story.* who, despite not paying too much attention to his appearance, was undeniably handsome, with his dark brown hair, and good posture.

Though he was a well-educated man, he had grown up very poor, down in the village. His family ran a small stand, which didn't bring in much money, but it was enough for a small house in the village square. Matthew, not being satisfied with living from penny to penny, promised his parents at a young age, that if they could get him an education, they would never go hungry again. This was obviously true, and his parents, having complete faith in him, trusted him. They sold their home, and rented a room in a larger building. Though it was uncomfortable, his parents realized it was worth it, when Matthew showed that he truly had potential. The pride didn't last long, though, as a few months after, Matthew's parents grew sick and died, leaving him alone.

One day, the queen put out a notice. Their daughter,  young Princess Stephanie, was in need of a good tutor. Matthew immediately made his way to the castle, alone, and proved his worth instantly. He was introduced to the princess on the spot. When he first met her, he was instantly taken aback. He was 18 at the time, a fully-grown man, but Stephanie was only 16 years old.

Though this age be a good time to marry her off, the queen knew that Stephanie was her only heir, and if she were to marry someone else, she would have to leave the kingdom, leaving her alone, so she delayed a marriage for as long as possible, keeping her isolated in the castle. But keeping her locked in the castle wouldn't keep her safe from suitors, because little did she know, she had just invited one in. From that day forth, Matthew was in love with the princess, as much as he denied it to himself. And the feeling was mutual. Stephanie was just as in love with him from day one. Although she was just as tight-lipped about it to the rest of the world, as she grew up, she embraced her feelings for him more and more. 

But in the world's eyes, they were just friends. And that's what they called each other. Best friends.

"Matthew, perfect timing! I've classified this as iron pyrite. Pretty, but not considered valuable. Commonly known as fools gold." She said proudly, but not too proudly, at the risk of being smug. She held the fools gold out to Matthew who took it from her and examined it. He smiled and put it back in her hand.

"Well done, Your Highness." He said.

Stephanie's smile faded, as she placed the fools gold on the desk and stood up. "Your Highness? Why the sudden formality? It's just me."

Matthew was clearly uncomfortable mentioning Stephanie's suitor, a wealthy king who could give her so much more than him, yet his posture and attitude remained unchanged. "The queen sent me. Apparently, the ambassador has arrived with a gift for you."

"The ambassador... he's here already?" Stephanie said nervously. "Is the king with him?"

"No, just the royal page and a few guards. Much more than I expected, though." Matthew said, almost as an afterthought. "However, since the king is not here as of now, it is not absolutely necessary that you meet him." Matt had meant to say this as a fact, but instead, it sounded like what it really was, a suggestion.

"As nervous as I am, I can't just cancel..." Stephanie looked into the mirror, terrifed, when Matthew got an idea. He came up behind her, and placed the back of his hand on her forehead. To his expectaions, her forehead was slightly warm, possibly from her nervousness, or even the heat.

"Ah, just as I suspected. You have a fever." He said. Stephanie turned around and smiled.

"Are you sure?" She asked.

"It's mild, but we should be careful. Should I inform your mother that you will not be able to attend?" Matthew smiled at her. Stephanie smiled back.

"Oh, of course. Thank you. I hope you understand." Stephanie said to him.

He nodded and started to leave, but Stephanie stopped him. "Thank you." She whispered.

"You're welcome." He whispered back. And with that, he left the study.