Awaiting freedom

“So, how long you in here for?”

“Feels like forever honestly. Is there a point even counting?”

“You’re right. Same here. I mean, you’d think the food around here is punishment enough, but nah. My back is sore, and I’m pretty sure I contracted arthritis just being here.”

“I’ve been to pig farms before. All the animals running around, rolling in mud and their own filth. It's chaos, but I’d still rather be there right now.”

“Sheesh! I mean, it is bad, but not that fucking bad, is it?”

“Well, at least the pigs get fresh air whenever. And if they really want to, they can just leave. How is that not better than here?”

“Damn. How you making me jealous of pigs now?!”

“Yeah, well. That’s our lot in life, I guess.”

“Anyone waiting on you over there?”

“I’ve been away for too long. I promised my girl I’d finally make it out there for Christmas this year. I’ve done my time, and it was supposed to be the year it all pays off.”

“Ah, nice! You got a bitc-”

“Language!”

“Man, shut your ugly ass up! I’ve seen you tilt your head trying to listen in! Mind your fucking business!”

“A bit harsh, no?”

“Hell nah! We’re here having a conversation, and this dumbass thinks he can just jump in. I can’t stand entitled pricks. Keep turning back around!”

“Still. A bit gentler would’ve done the trick.”

“Forget that clown. Anyways, any idea when you’re leaving?”

“Not really, no. Every time it comes up, I get sent from one person to the next.”

“That’s not right, man. You’ve been here too long.”

“So have you.”

“Yeah, but you were in here much longer.”

“True. It’s not like we can do anything about it anyway. Let’s just let nature take its course.”

“Speaking of letting nature take its course. I’ll be right back.”

“Alright. I’ll be right here.”

“He’s got a mouth on him, doesn’t he?”

“Sorry?”

“Your friend over there, walking away.”

“Ah, yes. In all honesty, I don’t mind it. He adds a bit of life to the situation, doesn’t he? I’m sure you understand. We’re all on the same boat after all.”

“True. But still, he could be a little softer.”

“Sorry about that, by the way…”

“It’s all good, don’t worry about it. He was right, I was eavesdropping. I was bored out of my mind.”

“Aren’t we all?! So, how long have you been here for?”

“Same time as you.”

“Really?! I’ve never seen you before.”

“I was in a different section. They moved a few of us over here a few hours ago. Overcrowding is my guess.”

“Makes sense. Although, based on how things are going here, I suspect we’ll be overcrowded soon, too.”

“I hope so!”

“Why?”

“Maybe it’ll make them move a little faster, and we’ll get out of here. These people are always scared of health and safety lawsuits and stuff like that. It’s the only language they speak.”

“I doubt it’ll help to be honest, but if there’s a chance it helps, I’m all for it!”

“Yo!”

“Looks like he’s back. Well, thanks for the conversation.”

“Likewise.”

“Pick up your shit, let’s go!”

“What do you mean? Why’s everyone moving?”

“They just announced it, man. My flight’s boarding now and I saw yours on the screen too. You’re heading to Germany, right?”

“Really? I almost lost hope! Thanks, man, appreciate you telling me.”

“It’s all good. Alright, have a safe trip. And tell your girl about this whole thing, maybe she tries to… soothe your pain later on, if you catch my drift.”

“Already planned to!”