Train ticket

Ben was in Los Angeles on business. When his meetings were over he went to the train station. He needed to catch the next train to be in time to deliver the wedding rings at his best friend’s wedding in San Francisco. However, Ben’s wallet was stolen in the train station. He lost all his money, his credit cards and ID as well as his ticket to San Francisco. As he was a stranger and had no ID, nobody at the station wanted to lend him money for a ticket.

While Ben was trying to decide what to do next, a well-dressed man sitting next to him on a bench left his coat unattended for a couple of minutes. Sticking out of the man’s pocket was a train ticket to San Francisco. Ben could see that the man had more than enough money to buy a new ticket.

Ben kept looking at the ticket sticking out of the man's pocket. He was thinking what could happen if he didn't make it to the wedding in time. His best friend would be furious and disappointed at the same time. Suddenly, he approached the coat and just when he was getting ready to slip his hand into the man's pocket, the latter turned around and faced him. "What are you doing?" shouted the man firmly. "I’m sorry, I didn't mean to do you any harm." answered Ben in a shaky voice. "Would you please let me explain?". "I would really want an explanation right away or I’m calling the police!" said the man angrily.

Ben explained his situation without leaving any detail behind. And even without any proof, the man seemed to be convinced and accepted to help Ben get a new ticket only under one condition; to let him attend the wedding. Ben was overwhelmed and promised he would make it up to the man as soon as they arrive to San Francisco.

By Sarah Ikhlef