Ariel's second Valentine's Day
Ariel woke to the soft sound of her baby's giggles drifting from the nursery. She smiled, stretching as sunlight filled the room. Eric stirred beside her, a sleepy grin forming as he heard the happy coos of their daughter.
"Looks like someone's already excited for Valentine's Day," Ariel said, her voice warm with affection.
Eric chuckled, leaning over to kiss her forehead. "She takes after her mom."
The two of them made their way to the nursery, where their little girl was sitting up in her crib, her tiny hands reaching for them. Her bright blue eyes sparkled with curiosity as she babbled happily. Ariel scooped her up, holding her close.
"Good morning, sweetheart," Ariel cooed, planting a soft kiss on her daughter's rosy cheek. "Are you ready for your first Valentine's Day?"
Their morning began with laughter and joy as Eric prepared breakfast in bed once again. This time, he set the tray with miniature pancakes and fruit for their daughter to try. Ariel laughed as the little one eagerly reached for a strawberry, smearing red juice across her cheeks.
"She's already got a sweet tooth," Eric said, his voice full of pride.
After breakfast, Ariel presented Eric with her gift: a beautifully carved wooden frame featuring their little family. A delicate seashell adorned the top, a piece of the ocean Ariel had chosen to represent her love for both worlds.
Eric turned the frame over in his hands, his expression softening. Inside was a sketch of him holding their daughter, drawn with exquisite detail. "Ariel, this is incredible," he said. "Thank you."
"I wanted you to have something to remind you of us," Ariel said, her cheeks flushing with happiness.
Eric handed her a small velvet box in return. Inside was a silver locket engraved with the initials of their family. Ariel opened it to find a tiny portrait of the three of them.
"Eric," she whispered, tears welling up in her eyes. "It's perfect."
They spent the morning playing with their daughter before deciding on their plans for the day. Ariel hesitated as Eric suggested a romantic outing, unsure about leaving their little one behind. But Carlotta insisted, promising to take wonderful care of the baby.
"You two deserve some time together," Carlotta said, scooping the baby into her arms. "Go enjoy yourselves. She'll be just fine with me."
Reluctantly, Ariel agreed. She and Eric strolled hand in hand through the bustling marketplace, where Valentine's festivities were in full swing. Musicians played cheerful tunes, and vendors sold flowers and heart-shaped trinkets. Eric pulled Ariel into a dance in the middle of the square, just as he had on their first Valentine's Day. Ariel laughed, her heart full as she twirled in his arms.
In the late afternoon, they made their way to the shore, where Eric had arranged a private dinner on the beach. Lanterns cast a soft glow over the sand, and the sound of waves provided a tranquil melody. Ariel marveled at the beauty around her, feeling completely at peace.
Just as they were finishing dessert, a splash of water caught Ariel's attention. She turned to see Flounder and Sebastian emerging from the waves. Flounder carried a small coral necklace, and Sebastian balanced a tiny seashell crown.
"Surprise!" Flounder said, his cheerful voice cutting through the evening air. "We couldn't let you celebrate without a little something from under the sea."
Sebastian grumbled but smiled as he handed the crown to Ariel. "This one's for the little princess. From all of us back home."
Ariel beamed, her heart swelling with gratitude. "Thank you, both of you. This means so much."
"Anything for our Ariel," Flounder said, nudging her gently before disappearing back into the water.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, Eric and Ariel returned to the castle, their hearts full from the perfect day. They found their baby girl fast asleep in Carlotta's arms, clutching a small stuffed dolphin Carlotta had given her.
"She's had a big day too," Carlotta whispered, smiling as she handed the baby to Ariel.
Ariel and Eric tucked their daughter into her crib before retreating to their own room. Before falling asleep, they stepped out onto the balcony, where the night sky was alive with stars. Eric took Ariel's hand and pulled her into a slow dance under the starlight.
As they swayed together, a shooting star streaked across the sky. "Look, Ariel," Eric said softly. "Make a wish."
Ariel gazed at the star, then turned to Eric with a smile. "I don't need to wish for anything. I already have everything I've ever wanted."
Eric leaned down and kissed her, the stars above them bearing silent witness to their love. And as they held each other close, Ariel knew that each Valentine's Day would only grow more magical, now that their family was complete.