“It means everything to me. Thank you,” Ariel insisted as she gave the woman one more tight squeeze. She did let go after that, since not everyone appreciated hugs. “It was so hard to not be able to talk to anyone. Ursula was totally wrong. Body language doesn’t solve everything. I do think she was right that maybe being seen and not heard was better, but it’s so hard to communicate. The magic box makes it a little easier, but that’s hard, too.” Ariel huffed a bit and some of her hair blew away from her face.
“I can’t wait to actually talk to my friends now. And my guardian, Frank.” Ariel couldn’t help herself. She gave the woman a hug. “Are you a witch too? Do I get to keep my legs? Is there anything else I can do to say thank you?”