And in true happily-ever-after fashion, we partied into the night.

’Cause every good story ends in a dance party, right?

Before Mal knew it, everybody was splashing water on her and rolling with laughter.

Music began to play, and a feverish merriment broke out on the deck. Drenched, and with water flying, people twirled and boogied. Carlos break-danced in the center of the deck, then hopped up and danced with Jane. Lonnie and Jay took the floor, followed by Evie and Doug, and then Ben and Mal. Everyone crowded them, cheering and splashing them with water. Above, the stars twinkled magically.

Mal had learned in her heart that she was bold, she was brave, and she believed. She was done hiding. She had looked deep inside, and she was going to be herself from now on: part Isle, part Auradon. She thought about The Lady’s Manners and laughed. That was another book she’d be happy not to open again.

Mal and Ben embraced. Then he slipped his beast-head ring onto her finger. They were ready to face their future—together. They climbed to the top of the staircase overlooking the deck. Fireworks burst overhead. It truly was a happy ending. She turned to face her friends, and she and Ben waved to them.

Mal was lady of the court. She was perfect the way she was. Everyone knew it.

And most important, so did Mal.