Madly in Love

Gustavo VI travels to Rome with Cristina to press Italy's national bank for a loan that would ease Saint Tulipe's financial crisis. The mission places high political stakes around Cristina's visit, clashing with her boredom and appetite for freedom. The financial pressure sets the backdrop for the events to come.

Cristina escapes from the embassy and begins a personal sightseeing tour around Rome, seeking thrills beyond royal duties. Her carefree wandering reveals a craving for independence and adventure. The city becomes the playground where her romance with Barnaba will begin.

On the bus, Cristina meets Barnaba Cecchini, a cheerful ATAC driver who instantly falls in love with her. He quickly charms her with warmth and humor, sparking a reluctant intrigue. The encounter signals a collision of classes and destinies.

Barnaba continues to show Cristina around Rome, including the Roman Forum, sharing jokes and stories as he guides her through ancient sights. He uses the day to win her interest beyond mere flirtation. Their growing closeness hints at something deeper beneath their different worlds.

They spend a night at Barnaba's apartment, with a sense of intimacy and mutual curiosity. In the morning, Cristina disappears again, concealing her true identity from him. Before leaving, she locks Barnaba in the clothes dresser's drawer and takes her bodyguards with her.

Barnaba, frustrated by the pursuit that follows, finally recognizes Cristina when he sees a TV report about her Rome visit. He realizes the princess is the same woman who captivated him, intensifying his resolve. He begins to plot how to win her hand.

Barnaba bravely asks Gustavo for Cristina's hand in marriage, challenging the aristocratic barrier of his modest background. Gustavo refuses, dismissing the possibility of a driver marrying a princess. The rejection sets up Barnaba's next daring moves.

Undeterred, Barnaba executes daring schemes to prove his worth, culminating in appearing at a royal banquet in an ATAC uniform. He engages in discussions about high politics with several international dignitaries, using his charisma to shape perceptions. The stunt shows he belongs in Cristina's world.

Seeing Barnaba's audacity and Cristina's genuine affection for him, Gustavo begins to soften and reassess the match. The king's opinion shifts as he observes the couple's connection. The future looks more hopeful as trust grows.

Saint Tulipe's financial crisis drives Gustavo to consider an engagement between Cristina and an arms manufacturer. The move threatens Cristina's autonomy and the couple's private happiness. The stakes escalate as the state presses for a financial solution.

Determined to halt the arranged marriage, Barnaba appeals to the citizens of Rome to donate funds for the cause. His appeal mobilizes public sympathy and turns personal love into a collective effort. The city becomes a participant in the royal romance.

Donations flood in, wiping out royal debts and annulling Cristina's engagement to the arms manufacturer. With the crisis resolved, Gustavo grants his approval for Barnaba to marry Cristina. The lovers celebrate a victory shaped by public support and perseverance.