doesnt 1. e3, e6 2. Qf3, Qf6 work if you're afraid of losing three pieces and a pawn for a queen?
Anyone want to theorize here?

Yes, but 2. ...Nf6 followed by 3. ...Bg4 seems to get white in immediate danger of losing the game. For example:
Of course, 3. h3 is a placeholder move to demonstrate a point. I'm sure white must have something better there.

If you replace pawn h3 with the knight moving to h3, you can almost force a mate.
The knight cannot be taken (queen captures king after) the king cannot escape, the knight would fork mate, and it's a mate in one if ignored. It can be pretty devastating if played.

It seems if 3. Nh3 black must go 3. ...Bxh3. Afterwards, I guess it's about finding the best moves. Though it seems black will have to be weary about moving the knight on f6. But a reasonable setup should be achievable. If 4. Nc3 or 4. Bb5+, 4. ...c6 should suffice. Then, my consideration would be to long castle. Trying to get Ne4 in, of course. Also, maybe after long castle, a pawn avalanche on the kingside might be effective. Minding the possibilities on the queenside, of course.
So, it's generally accepted the 1.Nf3 is the best opening move for white and 1. ...f6 is the best response. But, obviously in such an unexplored game, there are bound to be those that attempt something different. I've seen 1.e3 played, with the idea to throw off black by playing 2. Qf3 and putting black on the defensive as early as possible. I think after 1.e3 the best response might be 1. ...d5 with the intent of playing 3. ...Bg4 threatening something like Be2. Anyone want to share in these thoughts?