"Where were you, Basil?" Fritzi asks just as I walk into the CEO office-suite. I straighten my tie and clear my throat, "I thought we were going to have lunch together."

"I decided to eat out at Georg's Bakery."

"Basil, we're supposed to-"

"Fritzi, I was checking on a few people and lost track of the schedule, so I headed out for lunch. I cannot always be here."

"Yes, but since you are spending more time at Rask Industries we should be together." She runs her manicured nails through her straight blonde hair in slight frustration. I sigh.

"I apologize for leaving you behind, Fritzi, but I do have other priorities to manage."

"Alright, you're forgiven..." She answers, stepping forward with arms extended. I purse my lips and hug her very gently. I wonder what it would be like to hug Zipporah. I try to push the thought to the side but it sticks to the front of my mind. We're only acquaintances as of now, so I shouldn't be wondering about her. Still...

I end the embrace and step away as graciously as I can manage. Fritzi sighs, "Fritzi, perhaps we could watch a film while we're waiting on Grandfather."

"Of course!" She grins and hurries to a cabinet to seek out said item. I shuffle over to one of the stiff couches, sitting down in the middle. After picking out a rather dull documentary on Eldstein, which I've seen too many times, Fritzi sits down next to me and ever so slightly leans into me. I try not to shift away from her.

Eventually the meeting ends and our grandfather Octavian strolls into the suite, "There you are, Basil, I was about to send a search party for you."

"You would, wouldn't you, Grandfather."

"I would."

"He went out for lunch," Fritzi explains, crossing her arms, "Without me."

"I know. Basil, is it considerate to abandon Fritzi?"

"No, Grandfather, I merely forgot my schedule."

"See to it that you do not forget again."

He may seem gruff, but I know he's on my side. I am his only biological grandchild, perhaps that is why, "Yes, sir. I was intending on making it up to her with dinner."

"Really?!" Fritzi gasps.

"Yes, of course. I must make amends." She smiles and brushes an invisible strand of hair away from her cheek. I internally moan. Royal etiquette and manners are going to be my death.

After making arrangements I drive back to the Palace and change quickly, trading the BMW for a dark blue Mercedes-Benz. The whole way to Fritzi's family's mansion I think about Zipporah, remembering how relaxed I was with her. With Fritzi I always have to be on my toes, never getting a moment's true peace.

I think I can sacrifice lunch with Fritzi, right?

Thanks for reading! Please vote and comment below!

~Uilosris