By Michael Slagle
My anxiety increases as the train draws closer to the border. Our compartment is nearly empty. Just two of us now.
The woman in the seat facing me asks in heavy-accented English if I’m crossing on the train. I butcher the pronunciation of the final destination and apologize for ignorance of her language. My voice betrays my fear of debarking in a strange city at night.
Her name is Alena. Sensing my uneasiness, she offers to steer me through the arrival procedures. With the stress of aloneness relieved, I soon doze.
When I awake, both Alena and my passport are gone.
Excellent piece, Michael! Always need to be safe when traveling. Well done!
Tragic.
My Polish friend, Iwona, escaped by holding herself under train seats – for hours.
Awesomesauce Michael Slagle! I Found That Interesting…Good Luck For Your Future Journey!