Beneath the ripples,

I sail.

Watching closely,

My flippers sway

With the currents of the ocean.

—

Resting my rough shell,

Cautiously,

Between

The protection of the vibrant coral.

Vigilant.

 On guard.

Alert.

Prepared.

—

Danger spotted.

An unfamiliar creature

Approaches.

Looming.

Swimming

Unnaturally.

—

Flippers flailing,

Eyes popping,

A cloud of bubbles

Surrounding.

A shell shining,

Like the silver cans

Dropped from above.

—

Could it be

A malnourished sea lion,

Or a pasty,

Young shark

With  frog-like legs?

—

Disconcerted

but curious.

Amused.

It freezes.

Eye to eye

 We stare.

I wonder.

I worry.

—

I slowly move away,

Two flippers,

Followed by

The others.

Gliding.

Leaving the beast

Far behind.

—

Peeking back,

Enjoying

The last glance

Of the humorous pale creature.

Distance gaining.

Disappearing.

—

Beneath the ripples,

I sail.

Watching closely,

My flippers sway

With the currents of the ocean.