Saturday, 8 July 2023

Memory. The train ride. Part 1

4 ½ years. Aware of the bright sun in her eyes. Her mother wasn’t paying her attention.
The world was the only thing in the world that matters and today was a special day on the train to 
see Jacques. Jacques was a nice man. Always a chocolate and flower and a smile.
But now the train was stopped and men in black uniforms were shouting. And my tummy was feeling 
funny. I felt like crying.
The talk dark olive skinned women took my hand. 
“Shush, Mon Cherie”. said mummy. Mailou.
No sound. No talking 
“Oui”. If i was asked a question.
Somewhere deep down I was scared. I knew I needed to play my role. It felt good to feel my mothers’
hand, giving me a gentle squeeze as the door opened. 
2 of them entered.
“papers”
I really didn’t hear anything, i just played with my doll and brushed her hair.
One of them squatted down to my height. “I have a little girl like you. What’s your name”. 
“Maria” automatically I spoke with a shy smile.
“Lovely doll”
I held it out and he gave it a pat.
“ok” said the other. “Let’s move on”.
They stood and left.
Another squeeze of my hand. A lighter and gentler one that said the danger was over.
I stole a look at the bag I was never to look at.
My mother smiled.

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