Merriebella ducked underwater again but then shyly peered her head out once more.
“I won’t hurt you,” said Pongo in a gentle voice.
“But what are you?” they both said at the same time.
“A polar bear,” he said.
“A mermaid,” she answered.
“You’re so pretty.”
“You’re so furry.”
“Can I offer you a snow cone?” He squeezed the berry juice onto the snow ball and
handed her one. “I’m Pongo.”
“Merriebella.” Taking a bite she said, “This is delicious! Can you tell me, is this the Land
of the Rainbow Lights?”
“Yes,” answered Pongo.
“But where are the colors?” she asked.
“It’s still day time, silly—they come out at night. You must not be from around here.”
“No, I’m from the warm waters in the south. Come swim with me,” asked Merriebella.
“No thanks. I, er, aren’t you cold?”
“I have this,” she said holding up the amulet. “It keeps me warm. C’mon, Pongo. It’s so
beautiful underneath the ice.”
“I’ve never seen it actually.”
“What—don’t you swim?”
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“Then hold my hand,” said
Merriebella reaching toward him.
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