Train travel during Covid times is pretty stressful as well as enjoyable at the same time. Stressful because of the public surfaces you will come in contact with and enjoyable because trains are unimaginably empty (only in the afternoons).
Drowsy with the sumptuous yet simple meal I had cooked ( that's a story for another time), I boarded a train to meet SP.
The subway that leads to the train station is quite cool and quiet. I trudged through the silent space towards the platform when I heard the sound of the train chugging into the station.
Conflicted between my lethargic body and my pragmatic mind, I started up the flight of stairs leading to the platform. Now I would like to blame my afternoon meal for my lack of stamina to climb the stairs. But my conscience very rarely allows me to lie to myself. I know I am not fit.
Covering 2 steps in one stride, fighting against Sir Newton's discovery, I heaved and wheezed to reach the platform. I was too far to get into the ladies compartment (maybe 15 steps away but I hope you empathize with my exertion).
I hopped into the nearest gents compartment and was showered with curious stares. As always, I tucked in loose strands of my unruly hair to ensure I looked decent. I plonked myself in the middle of the longest seat, gasping for breath.
2 stations passed by and my breathing was back to normal and I witnessed a person (quite regular by my evaluation) enter the compartment, heading towards my seat. I usually don't stare at people but something about this guy kept my eyes riveted on him.
He staggered his way to the seat opposite mine, dropped himself on the seat and lay horizontally. I noticed him from my peripheral vision and found him squirming to find the most comfortable position to sleep.
When his right leg slumped over is when I realized that he was drunk...in the middle of the day!
Like who has the courage to get piss drunk in the middle of the day?
My question was answered the second I looked at his shoes:
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