Page 48 of Rushed

In the midst of our conversation, one of the volunteers stops beside me, looking worn out and exhausted.

“Time to go, dear.”

I rise from the chair. Taking my garbage to the receptacle at the doorway, I turn to say good-bye to Maddie.

“Thanks for the company. I hope you get home shortly.”

“Kenangan, I think that name is a good start for a new life. This is your second chance day. Take it,” Maddie says as I place the water bottle in the recycling bin.

“Thanks, Maddie.” Silently I wave to her as she reclines on her chair, waiting on her turn to go home.

On my way back to the table where I last saw Marjory and Jon, I hear my name called.

“Keenan, over here!” They’re both there, grinning like fools, with a stout woman standing in between them.

I turn towards them, passing through various lines of people who are waiting, earning my fair share of nasty stares I might add. Being singled out creates tension when others think you’re getting something they were entitled to first. It’s always that way.

Bumping my way through, I reach Jon. “This is the girl I told you about. Keenan, this is Hazel. She leads the group that’s in charge of housing displaced people like yourself. She’s found a place for you to stay tonight, after you've been checked out. The more crucial patients are here, and I think we should take you to the clinic, just to check that head of yours over. She’ll be your insurance contact for after.”

I hand Hazel the phone that I’ve been clutching tightly and she punches in a number. “Listen, I know this will all seem confusing and difficult for the next while, but we’ll keep in contact.” I look at the number and realize it’s an insurance company name that she’s put in the phone. I guess they’re in charge of things.

“I’m leaving you in Jon’s care, and I wish you well.” Marjory walks away with Hazel, leaving me standing alone with Jon.

“So what’s next?” I ask as he and I walk off towards a gated area. There are more doctors, firemen, reservists, army with automatic guns, security personnel, and TV crews than I’ve ever seen in one place…I think? On the other side of the barricade, there are hundreds and hundreds of teary-eyed people waiting for answers. Is there possibly anyone here for me, I wonder?

“We’re bringing you here first. I’m hoping someone may recognize you, or you recognize them. If not, there are a group of buses taking people to the hotels we’ve arranged for the next few nights. You’ll have a place to rest up while we discover your identity.” Jon waves me over towards the lines of people waiting. Some are trying to break through the barricade and plow their way through, but they don’t make it far before they’re turned around to the other side once more. I feel for them, I really do. This must be heartbreaking.

“Look, we don’t expect miracles from you,” Jon says. “Being alive right now is a miracle all on its own. When you wake up tomorrow, maybe things will be different. Just be patient. If you need anything, call me.” Jon hands me a business card with his name neatly printed on one side. “Understood?”

I nod. “Yep. Totally understood.”

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