Aaron, 27, boarded the old, weathered Amtrak in Chicago, where he had lived for the last several years. His ticket listed Seattle as the destination, but his departure options were open ended in his mind.
Five years out of college, he had worked a corporate job and burned himself out before turning 30. This trip marked a new adventure, a new beginning. He hoped to find some meaning in his travels, whatever that may be.
With his bloated corporate salary, Aaron gladly paid the significant upcharge for a sleeping car. He figured he may as well be comfortable if he’s going to be riding a train for up to two weeks.
His assigned space was towards the back of the train, where it was quiet and had virtually no foot traffic. Surveying the room, he saw two bunked twin beds pressed against the large windows showing the landscape as the train raced by.
There was also a small bathroom with toilet and shower, full length mirror, and a few drawers along the front of the room for storage. He thought how it was not upscale, but it will suffice for his needs.