Disclaimer: The Little Mermaid, all characters, places, and related terms belong to Hans Christian Andersen and Walt Disney Pictures.
Together, Here in the Open Air
First Meeting
"Thank you."
Ariel looked up from her book. "For what?" she asked, puzzled.
"For saving my life." Gratitude shone in Eric's blue eyes.
"Oh!" Comprehension washed over her. "Is today…?" she trailed off.
"Three months since you rescued me." The prince sighed dreamily. "When you think about it, our first meeting was quite romantic."
Ariel laughed in surprise. "You were unconscious for most of it!"
Eric insisted, "It was romantic! I wouldn't be here today if not for you. And I thank you, my little mermaid."
Ariel blushed under her fiancé's serious and soft look. She reached out to squeeze his hand.
"Eric, you are welcome."
First Date
Eric had yet to stop beaming, basking in Ariel's expressions – ranging from confusion, to curiosity, and finally delight. His heart swelled as her attention shifted from dipping her hand in the lagoon to him, smiling gently. In the moonlight she looked like an angel. For a second, he felt breathless.
"It's a long time since we came here," she remarked quietly.
"It has been three months," he replied.
She grinned. "You have a good memory!"
"The carriage ride, the market place, the boat ride… It was the happiest day of my life."
"It was a perfect day."
Eric frowned lightly. "Except I didn't kiss you."
Ariel's dark eyes twinkled. "After all this time, you're still upset?"
"I can't help it."
She leaned toward him, her smile turning both teasing and inviting. "Surely there must be something we can do to fix that."
Eric felt his cheeks grow hot, and he lifted his gaze up from Ariel's mouth to her eyes with difficulty. Releasing the oars, he leaned forward eagerly, smiling back at his wife.
"Oh, I can think of something," he said hotly against her lips.
Wedding Day
Three months. Had it truly been so long? Why, it seemed like it happened just yesterday!
Throughout the day Ariel gently rubbed her finger over the blue stone. Frequently Eric's attention lingered on the ring, marveling at how perfectly it fit on her finger. Often, they caught one another's eye, and the looks they exchanged were filled with wonder, joy, and love.
Poring over new maps and books, they enjoyed dinner on trays in their library.
"Happy anniversary," Eric said, lacing his fingers with hers.
"Happy anniversary," Ariel echoed, kissing his knuckles.
THE END