The prince finally made it back to the Inn at sunset. The servant was there with their bags and was loading the carriage. Without a word to the servant, he got into the carriage and closed his eyes. Hoping he would sleep away the past week.

Months had past and the prince spent them how he always did. Horseback riding, swimming, partying and admittedly he spent more nights with random girls. He forgot all about his silly attempt to be married. He neglected his duties and allowed for his court to take control. The prince could not shake the girl with the dark skin from his mind. No matter what he did, somehow, she creeped into his mind. When he lay down in his bed, it reminded him of her softer hair. When he partied, he would see her in the crowd. Every time he kissed a women, he would compare it to her plump lips. Even the sun started reminding him of her. The prince was going mad.

The servants of the castle whispered among themselves since the prince returned empty handed. However, they had more to say as they noticed how on edge the prince became.

"Poor prince, he looks so sickly" one would say.

"Oh please! It's nothing he doesn't deserve" another would respond.

"Still the women who rejected him most be beyond glamorous."

"I agree who would turned down a prince?"

"still, she did us a favor"

"You're right the court taken over has been amazing."

"Yes, I've managed to save enough for my trip."

"My mother was able to afford the medicine she needed."

Meanwhile the girl's life continued. She still received marriage proposals, beautiful dresses, and jewels. Yet no matter the gift she would not accept anyone. She continued to live in her yellow cottage, tending to her garden and helping the women of the town. Once a month when the moon was invisible, she went out on her secret rendezvous.