41. Being Late

The sea creatures found life difficult. Men were repairing the bridge. It needed strengthening. King Triton didn't want to cancel his kingdom while it was getting done. It took a long time. Everyone took care while crossing. They often got late because of it. Ariel would soon be ready to get her people. Ariel was very angry. I can't waste time. she complained. ''I can't keep my people waiting. Marina and Flounder are always daydreaming on bridges. You can't blame me!'' Marina said. ''We couldn't run across the bridge. It might fall. You would have no people then. Not one person. What would you do then?" Run everything on time for a start. answered Ariel. Before Marina could reply, she was gone. Pumbaa was upset too. He arrived before Ariel. The people found that they had been kept waiting until Ariel came. Pumbaa became upset with Ariel. She's late? Soon, Ariel arrived. We might be friends, but I thought you were fast, Ariel. It's time for another race. Now I can beat you. Ariel wheeshed. Oh, trash! she yelled. A certain mermaid and fish daydream on bridges all day long, and then blame King Triton's men! It's disgraceful! One day, Flounder was very late indeed. I'm so sorry, Ariel. he said. I was delayed at the junction, and the bridge made it all worse. It's a good thing I'm a guaranteed connection. Ariel told him. Before Flounder could reply, Ariel swam away. Hurry, hurry!'' she called. Her stuff tried their best, but Ariel found out she didn't have much time. Then, Ariel saw Pumbaa up ahead. His tail was leaking. What's wrong? Ariel asked. You should be at the junction. I feel unhappy. groaned Pumbaa. ''Very upset, and my worker can't fix me. I'm glad you're late. Will you take my people? Or else, they can't get home. Yes.'' replied Ariel. She felt sad for Pumbaa, and wanted to get help. Ariel swam off. She felt better already. With Pumbaa's people in her stuff, she had a wonderful time. When Pumbaa was fixed, he went to see Ariel. I'm so sorry I teased you. he said. ''That's OK. I'm just happy to help. Sometimes, being late isn't so bad.'' Then, they got back to work. by Julian Ayele Cumberbatch