Along the Rails

Grasshopper

c h a p t e r 3

As I awoke, I could see dawn finally breaking, I stood up, stretching and yawning. As I walked towards the opening of the boxcar, I was grateful that I was wearing two layers. A gust of wind swept across my face and I gasped to catch my breath.

The view before me was one I would never forget. Small snowflakes covered the barren land, few houses in sight. I stood there in awe for what appeared to be seconds as a whole world passed in front of me. One that I would never have known about if I hadn't decided to go after father.

As I stuck my head out to see the road ahead, I caught a glimpse of what appeared to be a city. I noticed a sign indicating the close distance to the train station and I went to grab my backpack.

I peered out again to watch the station approach. As it neared a stop, I held my breath as I jumped off the train, leaving all I knew behind. Lord knows if I would ever return.

Walking briskly, I headed towards what appeared to be the city. Twenty minutes later, I began to see houses lining the street.

By this time, the sun's light had erupted the sky with a reddish hue. As I looked around me, I began to notice a familiar smell wafting through my nose. A I searched for the source, I found it not far down the street.

Upon reaching the café, a smile spread across my face as memories of the family sitting by the fire drinking hot cocoa arose in my mind.

Walking in, I noticed that there were mainly older couples present, drinking coffee, not saying a word; just enjoying their mere presence.

Sitting down at an empty booth, I ordered some black coffee. Looking out the window, I watched as people began filing out of their house, one-by-one, as they headed to their daily jobs.

Upon receiving my coffee, a young man with a gruff expression on his face walked in the door. He looked my way and I froze, wondering if he recognized me (which was foolish considering I didn't know him). He walked past and sat at a booth behind me, occupied by another man.

I returned my attention to the window, catching snippets of their conversation.

"It's been a long time Jack. Good to see you safe."

"Don't waste my time with the frills Jeff. What do you want from me."

From his deep, monotone voice, I assumed Jack was the man I had seen earlier.

"I want another ride with grasshopper. I need to get to Arizona and see my family. I'm willing to pay him double as this is a farther trip than the last."

"You do know that that might take weeks to even set an appointment with grasshopper. He's in the process of taking a family to Charlie and who knows how long that will take."

Upon hearing my name, my ears perked up and I slowly turned to catch a small glimpse of the two men out of the corner of my eye.

My suspicions of who was who were confirmed and I turned back around, continuing to listen to their conversation.

"I don't care how long it takes. I just want the safest and fastest route with someone who is experienced and that I can trust."

"I understand. I'll have to find a way to contact grasshopper. When I know of his return date, I'll let you know."

"Do you have my phone number?"

"We don't exchange numbers in this business. When I hear from him, the shoe store will be half off. Go in and ask shoes for walking on metal. They'll give you the shoes you'll need for the trip for free (as a courtesy for choosing us for your trip)."

I almost scoffed at the last bit as it sounds like an airline. I listened as he continued.

"They will then give you a receipt of the date of when to meet, the time to meet, and which train to meet at. If you're caught before you meet, you will have to suffer any repercussions they incur. If, however, you are caught mid-trip, you'll receive an immediate refund. Do I make myself clear?" With an affirmative nod, Jack concludes, "Until then Jeff. Keeps safe and out of sight. Good luck."

Upon hearing this, I heard some shuffling and moments later, watched as Jack walked out of the door. I quickly finished my coffee and grabbed my bag.