The bed was big and soft. The halo of pillows around her head was cozy. Ariel sleepily snuggled deeper into the warm nest of bedding, enjoying the safe softness.

And then she sat up in a moment of panic, her hand flying to her throat.

"Please still work," she said aloud to the empty room. Her voice was a little scratchy from sleep, but it was still there. A huge smile spread over her face and she bounced out of bed. Her legs were still there too! It hadn't been a dream! Ursula was gone, her father had given her legs, and she was getting married to her true love in three days! What a wonderful world it was!

Ariel danced around the room in her ruffled human nightgown singing nonsense syllables happily. Carlotta bustled into the room carrying a breakfast tray, only to have the girl almost knock her over as she spun around the room with an imaginary partner.

"I'm sorry!" Ariel exclaimed with a happy giggle as she helped the housekeeper steady the tray.

"It's fine, dear," Carlotta reassured her with a broad smile. "Come now, you must eat before your busy day starts! You have a wedding to plan!"

"Oh, I'm so happy!" Ariel sang, taking up her waltz again.

With an amused smile, Carlotta caught the princess mid-spin and guided her to the table to eat her breakfast.

"Now," the housekeeper began, joining Ariel in a seat at the table. "Let's go over some of the basics again. This is a fork …"