This is the story of Princesse Matilda Victoria Eleanor de Galles. The Eldest daughter of Princess Catherine and William of Wales. The futur queen of England.
The crisp November air bit at Matilda's cheeks as she climbed out of the car outside her school. Dressed smartly in her uniform, she adjusted her scarf and waved goodbye to the royal protection officer. Inside the gates, the familiar chatter of students filled the courtyard.
"Matilda! Over here!" Maria called, her braided hair bouncing as she ran up.
Matilda grinned and made her way to her two best friends, Maria and James. As soon as she joined them, James started animatedly talking.
"Tilly, you didn't tell us you went to the James Bond premiere!" he exclaimed. "It's all anyone's talking about."
"Oh, that," Matilda said, her cheeks flushing as she looked down, feeling a mix of pride and shyness.
Maria leaned in closer. "You got to meet Billie Eilish, didn't you? I saw the photos. What's she like? Is she as cool as she seems?"
"She's lovely," Matilda replied, her face lighting up. "And so talented! She even talked to me about her songwriting. I couldn't believe it!"
Classroom Buzz
By the time the students filed into the classroom, Matilda's attendance at the premiere had become the topic of conversation.
"Matilda, was the red carpet really that long?" one girl asked.
"And what was the dress like?" another chimed in.
Matilda giggled, trying to answer everyone. "The carpet was very big, and Mama looked amazing in her gold dress. I wore one of her old dresses—she let me borrow it!"
The teacher clapped her hands, bringing the room to order. "Settle down, everyone. Let's get started. Matilda, you can share more about your exciting evening at break."
Even with the teacher's firm tone, Matilda noticed a few classmates sneaking glances her way, whispering about how lucky she was.
Breaktime Adventures
During the break, Matilda, Maria, and James sat together in the courtyard. Maria couldn't stop asking questions.
"Did Daniel Craig really talk to you?" Maria asked.
"Yes, and he was very nice," Matilda said, munching on her apple. "He said I should enjoy the movie and that he hoped I'd like it."
"And the movie?" James asked.
"It was brilliant! A little scary in parts, but Papa explained everything after. I think you'd love it, James," Matilda said.
Maria sighed dreamily. "I can't believe you got to meet Billie Eilish and see a James Bond movie before anyone else. You're so lucky, Tilly."
Matilda smiled. "It was special, but I'm glad to be here with you two. It's nice to just be normal at school."
James smirked. "Normal? You're literally a princess, Tilly."
"Fine, normal-ish," Matilda replied, laughing.
Holiday Excitement
By December, the focus at school had shifted to the upcoming Christmas holidays. The classroom was decked out with tinsel and paper snowflakes, and whispers of holiday plans filled the air.
"What are you doing for Christmas, Tilly?" Maria asked as they decorated gingerbread cookies during an art lesson.
"We're going to Sandringham, like we always do," Matilda replied. "Granny loves having everyone together. There'll be lots of games, presents, and food!"
"Do you get to see all your cousins?" James asked, carefully piping icing onto his cookie.
"Yes! George, Charlotte, and Louis are always there, and the Yorks and Tindalls visit too. It's a full house," Matilda said.
Maria grinned. "That sounds amazing. My family just has a small dinner, but I love it."
"It's not just about how big the celebration is," Matilda said wisely. "Granny always says it's about being with people you love."
James looked thoughtful. "Do you still do normal things, like stockings and carols?"
"Of course! Granny always insists we hang stockings. And we sing carols around the piano," Matilda said, then paused. "Though Uncle Harry used to sing the loudest. I wonder if he'll call us this year."
Maria and James exchanged a glance, but before they could ask, the teacher called for everyone to clean up.
The Countdown to Christmas
As the last day of term approached, the school held its annual holiday assembly. Students performed skits, sang carols, and shared their Christmas wishes. Matilda joined Maria and James on stage for a rendition of Jingle Bells, their voices blending with laughter as James forgot the words halfway through.
"You're hopeless!" Maria teased afterward, nudging him playfully.
"At least I wasn't off-key," James shot back, grinning.
Matilda giggled, her heart full as they exchanged gifts. Maria had given her a beautiful sketchbook, and James presented her with a collection of riddles.
"These are perfect," Matilda said, hugging them both. "Thank you!"
Maria smiled. "Merry Christmas, Tilly."
James added, "Yeah, have fun at your big fancy royal Christmas!"
Matilda laughed. "And you have fun with your normal Christmas!"
A Royal Christmas Eve
By Christmas Eve, Matilda was back at Sandringham with her family. The house was alive with the sounds of laughter, clinking glasses, and the rustling of wrapping paper.
"Come on, Tilly!" Charlotte called as they raced down the grand staircase, ready to open their stockings.
Later, as the family gathered for their traditional carol singing, Matilda sat beside her grandmother, the Queen.
"Did you like the card I sent you, Granny?" she asked, looking up.
"I loved it," the Queen said warmly, placing a hand over Matilda's. "You're a very thoughtful young lady, Matilda. I'm proud of you."
As the music swelled and the family's voices rang out in harmony, Matilda felt a deep sense of belonging. It had been a whirlwind of a year, but in that moment, surrounded by her loved ones, she couldn't imagine being anywhere else.
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