Journey to Dublin

Crunch.  THUD.

Crunch. Thud.

Crunch. Thud.

Crunch. THUD.

Walking back to the station, Oisin trailed happily behind Jack like a newly adopted puppy.

The one thing he had always noticed about this man was the way he walked.

It was like he was counting in his head.

Like he was marking time.

He struck down his left foot harder than his right.

And Oisin was beside himself about the fact that Jack carried only one suitcase.

Most of the passengers he had seen walk through Limerick had more than one suitcase.

Jack said he was moving back to Dublin.

Surely all of his things were back inside of his old home?

Abruptly, Jack stopped and scanned the station.

Suddenly his face lit up.

Take my hand. Come with me. Don't make a peep now.

Before Oisin could obey, Jack grabbed his hand and began to walk in a rush.

The two weaved through the crowds. 

Oisin stumbled along, his free hand holding onto the new deep red cap on his head.

Glancing up at Jack, he noticed he looked distressed.

Finally, the two came to a ticket booth.

Morning Heuston! A cheerful voice said.

What can I do for ya?

Two to Kingsbridge please. Jack replied.

Two it is. Yer pushin it.

A pair of blue eyes behind the counter peered down at Oisin.

Got a wee new friend Jack? Didn't know you were so keen on children!

Jack put his hand on Oisin's head.

We've no time for this David. Tickets please?

The man behind the counter paused.

What is going on?

Jack motioned for the man to lean forward.

He spoke whispering in a low voice.

The man let out a low whistle staring at Oisin.

Well best of luck to you JJ. We'll miss you.

Jack handed the man behind the counter some money and quickly put the tickets in his jacket pocket.

Oisin's heart jumped in delight as he boarded the train.

He had never been on a train before! There was a sea of people who were pushing him forward.

After guiding him to a seat, Jack leaned down to the boy.

Now don't move a muscle Oisin, I've got to put my suitcase up, you understand?

A confused face that wasn't Oisin's turned to look at Jack in surprise.

His stomach lurched.

Where was Oisin?

He just had him!

The train whistle blew and began to chug along slowly leaving the station.

In a deep state of panic, Jack spun around.

Breaking out into a sweat he bolted quickly down the aisles. 

He checked each seat.

It was hard to keep his balance.

And Oisin was no where to be found.

There was a tug on his jacket.

Looking up at him was a small girl.

She smiled up at him and pointed towards the caboose.

Author's Note