Ida accompanied her good friend Thea to the train station to say their last goodbyes. The platform was packed with people, burdened by heavy suitcases. There was no time for tearful last words.  Soon as the train pulled into the station, a mad scramble ensued. People climbed on top of neighbors to claim a square foot of space, better yet, a seat. Ida peered through the window of each passing car, in search of Thea. Thinking: what if this is the last time I see her when a new thought pops into her head. Ida pictures herself in America. Nice clothes. Good shoes. A life of luxury.