The next morning, and for countless mornings after, two groggy-eyed, glowing-smiled newlywed teenagers emerged from their room. Whispering, laughing, and embracing all the way to breakfast. One such morning, Chef Louie presented seasoned omelets, side dishes, and freshly squeezed juice. As soon as the last bite was taken, Carlotta promptly rushed Ariel off to her dressing room, and Grim took Eric into the study.
Grimsby latched the door behind them, which immediately set Eric on his guard.
“Eric, as you know the kingdom has been anxiously awaiting your marriage. Now that you’ve done so – a greater issue remains. It was your father’s wish that I relinquish my regent’s power whenever I deemed fit based on your education, marital status, age, so on.” He paused and looked at the youth with a mentor’s affection, “You are twenty soon, the time has come, I believe, for your coronation.”
The prince’s features grew stoic, then distant. He slowly nodded, “Yes, it is time.”
Two men stood, understanding the importance of the moment, and the future that lie ahead.
“I’ll have to tell Ariel.” Eric finally spoke, clearly worried about his wife’s response.
“Do not forget, my boy, Ariel is a princess. Still, I would break the news easy. This is one matter I’ll wager you two have not spoken about.”
“We have.” He said, “and that’s why I’m concerned.”
*
Carlotta poured steaming water into the clamshell bathtub, with Ariel in her white robe hovering over. “Take your time, dear, ring for me when you’re ready.”
“Oh, Carlotta” Ariel said, a bit too desperately. The housekeeper spun around.
“There is one question that has come up, I believe only you can answer.” She paused, “I have a, that is I believe I have a” her face turned rosy, “female issue.” Ariel explained her symptoms, and looked to Carlotta with an expectant face.
Carlotta’s plump face was wet with tears, “Come, sit with me.”
*
“Ariel!” Eric’s nervous voice rang throughout the
corridor. “Where can she be?” he muttered to himself, “Ariel!”
“Eric!” her voice responded. “Eric, I’m in the bedroom!”
“Stay there!” he shouted. “I’m coming!” He bounded up the steps two-by-two and pushed through the mahogany door, “Ariel” he panted breathlessly “I have to talk to you!”
“Likewise.” She responded.
“Come, come with me.” He scooped his wife into his arms and bounded back down the stairs. Transporting her quickly, but safely, onto the beach.
“Eric!” she laughed, “my dear man, why the rush?”
“Ariel there is something very serious I have to tell you.” Waves washed on the shore, providing a steady beat, “How do merfolk in Atlantica relay serious information?”
“We usually just tell one another.” She said sweetly.
“You and I are to be king and queen, within a fortnight as currently planned.”
Ariel slowly took in air, and exhaled.
“I know we only spoke of this once on our honeymoon, and you were quite uneasy with the idea, and I’m prepared to hold off the coronation if only to please you.“
“No. You could not do your people such a disservice. I suppose they’ve been waiting long enough.” Her voice trailed off.
Eric looked down with pride at the petite, yet unwaveringly strong, woman he had married, “I love you, so much.” He kissed her, and embraced his wife tight.
“And I love you.” She pressed her head close.
They stood for several moments then, suddenly remembering, Eric asked, “What was it you wanted to tell me?”
“Oh Eric” a voice whispered from his chest, her face shone as she looked up at her husband “Eric, I’m pregnant.”
THE END