Short Stories : The Greatest Journey of Our Life (Chapter 10)

Short Stories : The Greatest Journey of Our Life (Chapter 10)

CHAPTER 10

Of good and bad people

>> Alexander, are you here? << Sergei ran through the stairwell. The kitchen was on the second floor. So he wanted to check first. "Alexander!" He shouted up the stairs.

>> I'm in the kitchen! <<

>> I thought so! <<

His friend stood at the stove and stirred. >> Today there is spaghetti with minced meat! <<

Sergej's mouth was already watering.

>> Sit down! <<

>> Yes, my dear Alexander! <<

His friend swung the spaghetti down and put the strainer on the table. Next to it was the sauce. >> I wish you a good appetite! <<

>> Me too! <<

The picture blurred and now alternated with the basement ceiling.

It was a nice dream! But now Alexander was back in reality and it was hard. His friend was no longer there, and now this loneliness came back. The silence in this basement was unbearable. His stomach growled, a sign that he was hungry. No money, no friend!

His first trip that morning took him to the nearest police station. However, he did not get any information. Only relatives received such information, and Sergei no longer had anyone. Nevertheless, Alexander made a plan that he would come back in the evening if someone else was on duty. In that case, he wanted to pretend to be his brother.

His second way that day led him to a public toilet, where you could freshen up and shave something. >> Crap! << Alexander scolded when he looked in the mirror. This disposable razor was no good. As a rule, it was also intended for a single shave and not for repeated use. It took Alexander half an hour to look reasonably good again.

It was cold outside, bitterly cold! Nevertheless, he had no choice today, so he took a bag as a mat, sat on it and placed an old can next to it. Perhaps some had mercy and threw in something. No, the money was not meant to buy food. If enough came together, he would go to a small cafe where you could make calls. He wanted to call all of the children's homes in the area.

The other homeless people always drank vodka, so the cold was easier to endure. Fortunately, at least it wasn't snowing now. Most passersby ignored him. After an hour it was at least a few rubles. Just as he was about to get up, the owner came from the snack bar opposite. In his hand he had a bag of french fries and a mug of warm tea. He put both of them in front of him. Alexander looked up at him. >> But I have no money! <<

>> I know that, otherwise you wouldn't be sitting here and I didn't ask for anything. Take it easy It comes from the heart! <<

>> Thank you very much! <<

The owner was about to turn away when Alexander thought of something. >> Do you have a phone? I can pay for it. It is important! <<

"Important?" Repeated the man.

>> Yes, the militia caught my little friend yesterday. Now I have to find out which home they took him to. <<

>> I understand that is of course important. Just come along, you are welcome to make calls. <<

The man even helped him find the numbers. Unfortunately, the search turned out to be quite difficult because he did not know Sergei's family name. It wasn't a rare name either. In some homes there were several Sergei. But he didn't want any, no, he wanted his Sergei! This little, lovable guy with his simple manner. After thirty numbers and an hour later, all the homes were over. Alexander put the money on the man's table. >> Thank you for everything! <<

>> Take the money, it's a business phone, it costs me practically nothing. <<

He thanked again. >> I'll go to the police station again, all the best! <<

>> Thank you, I wish you find your friend. Good luck! <<

"I'm coming!" Cried Anton and started coughing again.

Jürgen was surprised. He was still in his pajamas and it was only two o'clock. He also looked pale as a sheet. >> Come on in! I have a flu. Had to report me sick. I'm making tea now, do you want one too? <<

Jürgen had to smile. >> I'm not saying no! Get well soon, by the way! << Anton wanted to start working on the stove when his neighbor got involved. >> Sit on the chair and I'll make tea quickly! <<

>> That's nice of you. <<

After the water had been put on, Jürgen took a seat in the other chair. Then he pulled something out of his shopping bag. >> Fortunately, the bank quickly sent me some money by wire. I also get a new card and I was also at the embassy because of new papers. In three weeks I should have everything together again. I also have a wallet again. << Both laughed. >> And this is for her! << He handed Anton a package, nicely wrapped in wrapping paper.

>> Thanks! That would not have been necessary. I'm curious now! <<, he said and opened it.

It was a little teddy bear in traditional trousers and with a traditional hat. >> But it looks cute. <<

>> Yes, from my home. <<

>> I will choose a worthy place for him in the living room. Unfortunately I have never had the opportunity to get to know your country. When I was in the military, I wanted to be transferred to the GDR for two years. But the places were popular. If you bribed someone you could get there, but I didn't see that. I never got out of Russia like that. If you understand. <<

Jürgen nodded.

>> I could get out today, but I don't earn enough for that. <<

Jürgen brewed the tea. >> Where did you want to go? <<

>> Don't laugh now! <<

>> No, I will not say that, be sure! <<

>> I would like to go to Paris one day. But as I said, with the little money that is unaffordable for me. << Then he took a little break. Only the dripping of the tap could be heard. He looked at the bear again. >> Really cute, I'm thrilled! I hope you won't drag any children home with you now. I can't afford another flu. <<

> Well, how can you be deceived in people. I'm a little disappointed. <<

>> They still haven't understood it, for the children out there, completely different values ​​count. You see the misery twenty-four hours, day and night! For them is stealing and people are attacking something normal. That sounds bad, but it is a reality! For them as outsiders, this is of course difficult to understand, especially as a German! Sure, there is also poverty in their country, but everything here is a little harder than theirs.

There was little going on in the area. Two officers were just leaving it when he entered. Alexander breathed a sigh of relief, this time a woman was on duty. "How can I help you?" She greeted him warmly.

>> Last night was raid and ... << Only now did he remember that he couldn't pretend to be his brother because he didn't know the family name. >> In any case, they took my friend with them. His name is Sergei and he is seven years old! Now I wanted to know which home they took him to? So that I can visit him there sometime. <<

>> Normally I can only give information to family members! <<, she said seriously.

>> Can't you make an exception? <<

>> Well, I want to take a look. I am not allowed to do that normally. What's your friend's name? <<

>> Sergei! <<

>> And the family name? <<

Alexander shrugged. >> Unfortunately I don't know. <<

She ran backwards and came back with a folder. >> We only have one Sergei Gregorsky here, age seven. <<

>> Yes, it should be! << Alexander's face brightened.

>> But he is not in a children's home in the area, but in Ryazan. Wait, I'll quickly write down the address. <<

No wonder they couldn't find him. If it was outside of Moscow. >> Can you tell me how far it is to Ryazan? <<

The lady gave him the note. >> That's a good two hundred kilometers! I wrote everything down, including the phone number! <<

>> Thank you very much, that's very friendly. I wish you a nice evening! <<

The woman smiled. >> I certainly have it. <<

At that moment two officers were coming in with a drunk. >> Bruno rioted again! <<, said one of the officials.

"Oh, as always!" Said the lady.

Alexander left the area. Yes, this alcohol was a problem for Russia and especially for the children. They felt the effects most violently. The parents were then drunk and beaten. A drama for all of Russia!

But there was a problem now, he had to come to Ryazan somehow. But how? You didn't get very far with the few rubles. Maybe until the end of the city, that's it. Tomorrow he wanted to talk to Sergei first.

Another morning had begun. Rush hour traffic was already beginning outside. Alexander couldn't sleep properly all night. He couldn't wait until morning finally came. Now he stood in front of his regular cafe and waited for it to open. Finally the lights came on and the unfriendly waitress unlocked. >> But you are early today <<, she wondered.

>> Good morning! Where's the phone here? << he asked.

She pointed to the back. >> There is a payphone! <<

Alexander thanked him, ran to the back and took out the coins. They fell down in excitement. "Shit!" He swore. Then he took out the note and dialed the number. It took some time, then a woman's voice answered. >> Could I please speak to Sergej Gregorsky, this is a boy who came to her home yesterday or the day before yesterday. <<

>> Are you related to him? << Alexander considered. Since he now knew the family name, a lie was better, otherwise she would surely not put him on the phone. >> Yes, I am his brother! << Hopefully Sergei would not blabber and say that he had no brother at all.

>> Wait a moment, I'll get him on the line quickly! << You could hear the steps moving away.

>> Thank you! << It took a while. Alexander had to throw coins.

1The operation was also noticeable. >> What would you like to order? <<

>> Please give me a tea! <<

>> To your regular place? <<

>> Yes, as always! << Finally, steps approached. Voices were heard. >> Your brother wants to speak to you! <<

He knew the other voice, it was Sergei! >> My brother? << Hopefully the little one didn't make a mistake now. >> Oh yes, my brother! <<

>> Afterwards close the door again, I have to look after the other children! << Steps removed and steps came closer. >> Hello, this is Sergej! <<

>> Hello, it's me! <<

>> Alexander, my dear Alexander, how happy I am! <<

Alexander already had tears in his eyes. "I'm happy too and how!" He replied, wiping the tears from his eyes. >> Listen, I have to make it short, the coins will soon be gone. <<

His counterpart grew serious. >> I thought about you so much! <<

His friend interrupted him. >> Wait a minute, I have to change money! <<

He quickly ran to the waitress, who was busy painting her fingernails behind the counter. >> Can you change this note for me, please? <<

The woman grimaced. Alexander could already see that this interference didn't fit into the stuff. Still, she gave him the coins without a word. > Thank you! <<

He quickly ran back to the phone and tossed some coins. >> Are you still Sergei? <<

>> No! <<, he joked. >> Just my mind! <<

>> Ha, ha, so watch out, I'll get to Ryazan as soon as possible! <<

>> It's nice! I'm looking forward to seeing you again! <<

>> Me too. The coins are all. We'll be separated soon, as soon as I'm there I'll visit you. Don't forget me! << There was a crack, the time was up!

It was snowing again. There he stood on the side of the road and stuck his thumb out. Alexander checked his watch. Wait half an hour and no one had stopped so far. A Daimler drove past him at lightning speed and splashed the salt water on his coat and face. "Asshole!" He shouted after the driver. There was a paper handkerchief in his coat somewhere. As he wiped his face, he noticed a truck that was slowly coming closer. His thumb was quickly used again. Had he been a pretty blonde, someone would have stopped in the first minute. But it was hard that way! The truck slowed down and braked right in front of him. The passenger door was opened. Alexander swung himself up. >> Good morning, are you going to Ryazan? <<

>> I have to turn twenty kilometers in front of it, but I can take you with me until then. <<

>> Thank you very much! << With one sentence he was in the cab and closed the door. The truck started again. Still, the driver glanced at him from time to time. >> As you look, you've been standing here for a while. <<

>> Yes, unfortunately nobody has stopped so far. <<

The driver switched on the radio. The Holly Dolly song was just played. Alexander couldn't help but grin, the song was pretty weird but nice.

>> Most of the time I have no one to talk to, then the radio is on. But if it bothers you, will I turn it off?

>> No, leave it on! <<

"Do you live in Ryazan?" Asked the man, lighting a cigarette.

Alexander shook his head. >> No, I'm just visiting a very good friend. <<

It was snowing more and more. The man switches the wipers up one step. The truck now left the city and turned onto a federal road. In front of them were some passenger cars, which also did not drive fast, because you could hardly see anything, and this funny song was still playing.

It was the first time he got out of Moscow and then that far. Sergei would be back with him soon! His best and only friend.

>> Are you thinking about something? <<

>> Yes, I will see my best friend again soon! <<, answered Alexander, beaming all over his face. >> Sergei, I'm coming! <<

>> I'm already there! <<

At first, Alexander didn't understand what the driver meant. The latter laughed. >> My name is Sergei, like your friend! <<

>> Oh, very happy to meet you, my name is Alexander.

Sergei shook his hand but continued to concentrate on the street. >> It is also a pleasure to meet you! <<

The first hour had already started. Lonely and lonely, Sergei sat in his chair while the teacher and the other children chanted the national anthem. He didn't really know her anyway. So the little boy looked out of the window. Snowflakes fell to the ground. The caretaker was busy shoveling the schoolyard free. Some older students had to help him with that. But just made more nonsense by throwing snowballs at each other. Sergej considered how many seconds it would take for the caretaker to start moaning. The shouting started at sixteen hours. The students went back to work listlessly.

>> Sergej! <<, warned the teacher. An older, stout and energetic woman. He immediately looked ahead.

>> Please open your book and read out! <<

Read out? He? There was only one tiny problem, he couldn't read! Unfortunately, it was not so easy to tell the teacher that it would be embarrassing for him!

"Would you please start!" She asked him again.

Sergei just looked at her, then at the book and again at her.

>> You don't want to? Then out the door, you won't come back until I call you! <<

He almost had to laugh. Nothing better could happen to him! He didn't wait outside the door, of course, but grabbed his coat and hat, ran down the hall, then out through the stairwell.

Damn! The caretaker and a couple of students shoved in the playground. So far, they have ignored him. Unfortunately there was no other way to get freedom. He had to go through the school gate! Then he got an idea! He ran purposefully towards the gate and ignored her. Just before he reached the gate, the caretaker's voice came to his ears. >> Stop boy! Where do you want to go? <<

He looked over at the caretaker, who had stopped shoveling the snow and was waiting for an answer. >> I have to get something for Mrs. Pedrova from the baker. She forgot her sandwich bread! <<, he lied to his face. By the way, Sergei could do that without blushing!

>> Then hurry up and don't dawdle! <<, warned the man.

>> Certainly not! << He quickly pushed open the gate. >> Finally free, shitty shop! << What did you need school for, that was as pointless as eating soup with a fork.

At any rate, that's what little Sergei meant at the time. One day he would know better, but then it would be too late!

He had to wait for Alexander near the home. He certainly came to visit him. Hopefully it wouldn't take that long because it was far from warm. Still, he could go to the bakery quickly, and his friend would not be here that quickly. He was on the road with the militia for almost four hours.

There was still some money in his coat, it could be enough for a bun. If not, you would have to hope for the pity of the seller or the baker. There was nothing to lose.

>> I turn further ahead, because you can eat cheaply. It's too expensive for me in Moscow. << Sergei said and switched on the turn signal. The vehicle slowed and turned off the main road onto a country road. The man looked up through the windshield. >> Finally it stops snowing! << Indeed, only a few snowflakes fell on the ground. Unfortunately, the street wasn't exactly in a new condition. Numerous potholes substantiated the first assumptions, which then became certain. "Shit street!" The driver swore. >> The state is broke and that is the consequence! << A village came into view. One of those small Russian villages with their wooden houses and the fence in front of the garden. There was a lot of agriculture here. People were practically self-sufficient. Nobody had much money here. Still, people were richer than he and his friend Sergei. You could sleep in a warm house every night.

The driver turned to him and pointed forward. >> There is a small restaurant behind the curve! <<

>> Local! <<, wondered Alexander. In such a small village and a place. Was Sergei kidding him?

"More so improvised!" He winked at him. >> You understand. Truck drivers often stop here. You can't eat cheaper anywhere, that's for sure. <<

>> I'll wait outside while they eat inside, I'm not hungry. <<

Sergei looked at him incredulously. Then he smiled. >> I understand you have no money, that's why you're hitchhiking! You know, if you drive as long as I do, you learn to assess people. Now come on in, you're invited! <<

Alexander didn't like that at all, rather embarrassing. But who knows when he'll get something to eat next time. So he followed the man into the warm. Everything was improvised inside. A wooden table, which should represent the counter. Behind it was an old woman reading the Bible. Alexander counted two tables and eight chairs. The two took a seat at the entrance.

Sergei grinned at the woman. >> Mother, we would like to order something, bring us the card! <<

>> The old woman looked up angrily. >> You old tramp, you know exactly that I only have my famous stew! << She got up and went to another room. When the door was open, you could smell the wonderful smell of freshly scalded meat, vegetables and potatoes that wafted across the room. Alexander was getting really hungry now.

Sergei nudged him. >> Wait until you have tried! Maria makes a very good stew. <<

>> I like to believe that! <<, Alexander replied sheepishly, scratching his head. For a few seconds, old Maria came in with the whole pot. She had to run twice. The second time plates and cutlery were added.

"As I said, she makes a very good stew, almost as good as my mother.", He joked.

Maria raised her hand. >> Oh you! Nobody makes him better in all of Russia than I do. << Then she looked at Alexander. >> You don't have to believe everything that this old fool fills! <<

He just had to grin and found it funny how the two teased each other. But the teasing was over now, Sergei was hungry. So did he, so they reached out. Maria brought two more slices of homemade bread. You had to give this old woman that, the food tasted great. Almost as good as Ludmilla's yeast braid, which the little one always talked about, but only almost!

Sergei had to queue. Finally it was his turn! It was so small that he could hardly see over the counter.

"What can it be?" Asked the man in his white apron.

>> A roll, please! <<

The man reached for one from the basket. "Do you want to eat it right away or should I wrap it up?" He asked indifferently.

The little boy shook his head. >> I’ll eat it right away, you don’t need to pack it up. <<

>> That makes thirteen rubles! <<

Sergei took the money out of his pocket. He was slowly counting it.

>> Boy can't you hurry up a bit! << asked a fat, old woman.

Unfortunately, it was only nine rubles. >> I'm sorry, I only have nine rubles! <<

The man put the bun back in the basket. >> You can't do anything. <<

Alexander's friend left the bakery somewhat sadly. He had to stay near the home so that he could monitor the entrance. On the opposite side was a watch and jewelry shop. A clock was attached above it. The clock showed exactly eleven o'clock. When did Alexander arrive? Certainly not before 2 p.m., rather later. Suddenly he saw two militia men running patrols. They came straight to him. "Not again!" He scolded. So far they hadn't noticed him. If so, they would surely ask him why he wasn't at school at that time. Then the theater would start all over again. He quickly turned and ran a little faster. But too late! >> Hey boy! << came a male voice behind him. Sergei ran. Hopefully he could take her down. They were right behind him. The distance was only fifteen meters. Because he had smaller legs, his steps were smaller. He quickly turned the corner. A garage door was open. He sprinted in hurriedly and closed the gate. Now it was time to wait! The two would certainly search the area and take their time. He let himself out of breath. >> Oh Alexander, if you were only here! <<

A quarter of an hour later, Sergei left the garage. They were gone! Maybe his best and only friend came earlier than expected? He was beginning to doubt whether his calculations were correct. It was better to say too early than too late, as the saying goes. So it was important to get to the home as soon as possible, otherwise he might miss it. So he ran and ran, only this street, then it was done! No sooner had Sergei crossed half of the street than he saw the car coming towards him. The brakes squeaked! He was thrown over the bonnet with full force. A woman who was waiting in front of the traffic light shrieked. Sergei lay motionless on the floor. The driver got out. Panic overwhelmed him. >> I was allowed to drive, it was green! << People came running from all directions at lightning speed. Not so much to help, but to see what had happened.

"Someone has to call the ambulance!" Said a woman with her small child. A gentleman took out his cell phone and wildly dialed the emergency number. In the meantime the crowd of people was complete. The driver continued to think he had to defend himself in front of the people. >> The traffic light was green! <<

"Yes, now we know!" Said another. One screamed from behind the crowd. >> Please let me through, I'm a doctor! << It took a few seconds for the last one to get it and let him through. He immediately went to the boy and knelt over him. The head was bleeding. >> Does someone have a blanket that we can put under our heads and one to cover! << The traffic stood still on the left side. A woman with three blankets came from behind. >> Thank you! << Now the doctor listened to him. >> He's alive! << At that moment the ambulance siren could be heard.

>> I'll let you out at the gas station up front! Unfortunately I have to continue in the other direction. <<

>> I would like to thank you for the food and for taking me with you! <<

>> No cause! So at least I could have a good time. <<

The semi-trailer drove into the petrol station entrance and came to a stop at the petrol pumps. Alexander opened the door and climbed out of the cab. >> Thanks again for everything! <<

>> Give my namesake a nice greeting from me! <<, Sergei winked at him.

Alexander had to smile. >> I will be happy to do that. I think everyone is nice. << With that, he dropped the door into the castle. The truck started again with a hum. A last honking then he drove out of the exit back onto the main road. Alexander watched him drive the exit.

But how did he get on now? He looked around, no car at the gas pump, everyone drove past.

After a long wait, a Skoda finally came. An older couple got out. Alexander watched her.

"I'm just going to the toilet quickly and freshening up!" Said the woman.

>> Yes, do that, I'm fueling now. << He took the tap and opened the fuel cap.

Alexander wasn't exactly the bravest one, but he had to come to Ryazan. He walked shyly towards the old man in a suit and hat. >> Excuse me, are you going to Ryazan? <<

The man nodded. >> Yes, that's where we live! <<

"Could you take me with you until then?" Asked Alexander.

>> But you are a polite, young man. Unfortunately, you rarely see something like this today. << At that moment his wife came back. She put the tissues back in her purse and locked them. >> This toilet may be dirty! <<

Alexander had to think about the filthy dwellings he'd slept in, but of course he didn't mention a word about it.

>> You, this polite, young man wants to go to the city with you, you certainly don't mind that, do you? << The woman eyed him briefly. >> No, of course not, he can go with you! <<

While the man went into the building to pay, his wife got in. Alexander was still standing next to the car. >> Get in the back, my husband is coming soon! <<

A few seconds later he did it again. >> Well then we can, I'm glad when we get back home. << His wife nodded. Then he looked in the rearview mirror. >> Are you studying? <<

>> Studying, me? <<, but that should be a joke now. If they knew what he was doing, they'd rather throw him out of the car. He certainly studied, but not as the old man imagined it. He studied his customers. We dirty they were! How rich and corruptible and how arrogant! How drunk! "No, I'm not studying!" He replied.

>> That's a shame, you should, ideally a teacher or doctor! <<

His wife now interfered. >> Dentist wouldn't be bad. Our children both studied. <<

>> One is a doctor and the other teacher. <<

How proud they were of their children. His parents could not be proud of him, nor could he be proud of his parents, so that made up for it. This old couple had different views, not their world! The two were so naive, they didn't know real life at all. They thought they knew it. Did they know Moscow's sewers. An excellent place to sleep! Did they know the food from the dumpster? No! The worlds in which they lived were just too different. Not to compare at all.

>> What are you doing, are you going to school or are you already working? <<

Alexander had to laugh. The two looked at him in surprise. I'm going to buy, he should say now. But then they would look stupidly out of the laundry. >> I'm going to school! <<, he lied.

"What do you want to be later?" Asked his wife.

That was really a good question. Since there was no alcoholic profession, he took a seller. So the question went on until they arrived in Ryazan. When he got out and thanked him, he found that he had never lied as much as today.

The children's home was not easy to find. It was on the outskirts of the city. An old brick building that must have seen better days. But the state did not spend money unnecessarily, which was not available anyway. At first such things were saved. Apart from the fact that a home could only be a temporary solution. In reality it was a temporary solution! He ran up the few stone steps and pressed the bell button.

"Who's there?" Came a female voice from the intercom. The quality of the system was comparable to a trash can, if you spoke into it it sounded the same.

>> I would like to speak to Sergei! <<, roared Alexander. >> I came especially from Moscow! <<

>> Wait, someone is coming! <<

>> Let's hope so! <<, he said mockingly, luckily nobody heard the last sentence.

After a few seconds of waiting, the door finally opened. A key was inserted and turned around in the lock. A woman who was not exactly likeable faced him. She made a cold impression on him and was definitely the manager of this friendly facility. She got straight to the point. >> Sergej is no longer here. This guy has run away again. Should he sleep on the street if he likes it better. <<

>> Then the way was in vain. <<

>> If you are happy, such children cannot get used to orderly conditions. Excuse me, I have a lot of work to do! <<

Alexander tried to stay friendly, which was difficult for him. >> Thank you for the information! <<

The door closed again and it was locked. When Sergei was no longer in the home, he was definitely on the way back. Alexander looked up at the sky, it would soon be dark! He took a slow breath. They would see each other again in Moscow, he was sure of that at the moment.

Half an hour later he was back on the main road holding out his thumb, hoping that someone would show mercy and take him away.

He would never see little Sergei again, but he didn't know that at the time, and that was a good thing!

Continue Reading to The Greatest Journey of Our Life (Chapter 11)