Thanks so much to @Doodle_writer and HerImperialMajesty99!

I clear my throat and straighten my outfit, fixing my hair and any other details which Fritzi might criticize before I approach the double doors to pick her up. Fritzi has always been so fixed on perfection and appearances, and I could do without her scolding me again. So I inhale and walk up to the doors, knocking twice before they open swiftly. Fritzi's maid, Gretel, curtsies immediately, "Your highness."

"Gretel."

"Oh, you're on time, Basil." Fritzi greets, coming into view. I smile politely in response, my lifetime of etiquette kicking in as she descends a few steps and twirls around to give me a full view of her outfit- a low cut, shiny silk mid-thigh length black dress with rhinestones and sateen embroidery, complimented by extremely high stilettos and garish jewelry and cosmetics. At least to me it is garish, but I formulate a compliment.

"The dress is very becoming, Fritzi." She smiles, blushing brightly.

"Thank you, I hope it's not too much."

"Of course not. Shall we be off?"

"Absolutely, my Prince." She curtsies and I bow before stiffly offering my arm. Out of the corner of my eye I see Grandfather watching us, a glint in his eye. I nod to him and then lead Fritzi to the car.

One week later...

"Oh, Guten Tag, Basil!" Zipporah greets as she enters her office and finds me here, her expression one of slight surprise but also excitement. I grin in response. I just got away from my family and Fritzi.

"Tschau, Zipporah," I chirp back and she curtsies somewhat awkwardly. I tsk, "You do not have to curtsy, Zipporah. Sie sind keine Eldsteinerin. [You are not an Eldsteiner]"

"You are still a VIR and I could lose my job if I don't."

"VIR?"

"Very important royal." I cock my head to the side, eyeing her.

"Did you just come up with that?"

"Yes, your highness." I burst out into bitter chuckling.

"I am a royal, but I'm not very important. If anything I'm the bottom of the barrel." I answer, pressing my thumbs into my pockets and leaning against her desk. She frowns and sets her banker's box of files down on the desk, wringing her hands.

"I do not believe that you are a 'bottom of the barrel' royal, Prince Basil." Zipporah slowly words, pushing a vivid red spit-curl behind her ear. I purse my lips.

"Really?"

"Yes. You're very kind and gracious. I've not met so charming a man here, and you're not like other rich and famous profiles." I cross my arms and eye her carefully.

"I'm charming to you?"

"Yes, in a good way." I smile and shrug.

"Zipporah, you are very easy to talk to. Did you know that?"

"I have heard such a compliment before, though I do my best not to let it go to my head."

"You speak your mind too."

"When I feel it necessary, yes." I sigh and lift my eyes.

"Would you like to join me for lunch again?"

"I can't say that I'm not free, and I did not pack any lunch either... I guess I could join you then." I smile and mentally fist pump. She smiles very gently, imitating Mona Lisa almost perfectly.

"Come on, then," I coax and lead her out of the office. As we're walking I glance at her hands. They're still bruised up, "Zipporah, how are your fingers?"

"Sore and tender, but less painful at least. I got them checked out, no big trauma."

"That is wonderful to hear. I am glad you did not suffer major damage."

"You know you're forgiven, right, Basil?" I pause.

"Yes, but I am still upset about it."

"You're a very kind man, Basil, and that's part of why you are a VIR." She whispers. I freeze for a nanosecond, replaying her words.

"Thank you, Zipporah."

Hope you enjoyed it! Thanks for reading and please please please comment and vote below! Any ideas are welcomed!

~Uilosris