Stranger on a Train

I watch her as she walks by. She looks nervous and out of place, like she is up to something, but not quite sure she has the courage. She is looking at Sara and then she sees me watching. Her eyes go to the floor and she hurries past.

I see her pass again going the opposite direction up the center aisle, unsteady on the train. She casts a furtive glance back, but she hastens on. I am surly and suspicious, but too tired to say anything to Sara. She is impatient, new at this game. I can wait her out.

She approaches yet again, this time slowing. I watch her without watching her. I want to see what she will do. She stops. Sara looks up, noticing her for the first time. Their eyes meet. She says something in Mandarin. Sara replies. She sinks down into the seat opposite and bursts into tears. My eyes open wide, my fear recedes.

She is from China and has come to Italy to work for her uncle in a restaurant. She does not speak anything except Mandarin. She has not had a day off since she arrived three months ago. She finally earned a break and her uncle gave her some money to go to the beach in Cinque Terre.

She had never seen the sea before and she was excited. Separated from her friends, she boarded the train by herself, destined for a relaxing day lounging by the deep blue. The train was headed in the wrong direction. Realizing her mistake, she wandered the train looking for some clue as to where she was going, for someone who might help her. Sara was the only other Asian on board, but she was too shy. Finally, her panic overcame her apprehension. Her courage is rewarded. Sara and I exit the train with her at the next stop, help her buy the correct tickets, and seat her on the platform to await the next train.

I think about her from time to time. I am awed by her bravery. She left a life with no future for an adventure across the world. She works hard for her dream. She fights daily battles, but she has already won the war.