California Dreaming

“I’m afraid I’ve decided to leave Syracuse,” you say. “But I can’t thank you enough for your kindness.”

Your aunt stares for a moment. “Oh,” she says. “And where do you intend to go?”

“California,” you respond. “I’ll leave tomorrow morning. Apologies for the late notice—I’ll be sure to settle this month’s expenses with you before I go.”

The next morning, you walk out to the kitchen, suitcase in hand. Your uncle has already left for work, but you give your aunt an awkward hug goodbye and hand her the rent you owe. She wishes you well. You open the front door and begin to walk.

Seven blocks later, you arrive at the railway station. You approach the ticket window, and when the clerk asks, “Where to?” you confidently respond, “California.”

He chuckles. “Now that’s not exactly a small state. Whereabouts in California are ya headed?”

“Visiting a cousin in Los Angeles,” you explain.

“Well that I can help you with,” the clerk responds. He shuffles through the papers and maps on his desk and pulls out a single piece of paper. You can see a series of timetables. He outlines your options, and after a moment’s consideration, you purchase a one-way ticket to Los Angeles . . .

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