So there we were—two slightly overexcited women out on a “catch-up-with-a-friend” day. You know the type: too much talking, zero planning, and a high probability of public embarrassment. The adventure began at Alexandra Palace station, where we were supposed to change trains and glide into central London.
Except... our train decided to show up early. On another platform. Because of course it did.
With my slow-motion running. Ash and I bolted up the stairs Over. Ash, being the braver of the two, flung herself at the train ,stood right in the middle of them — preventing the doors from closing by sheer force of will. Heroine vibes, but with a backpack.
I eventually reached the train, panting like a tired pup, and climbed in with the grace of a sloth !. We were both giggling uncontrollably, wheezing like asthmatics, while fellow passengers threw a ' what on earth look' All very Mumbai local meets London drama.
Now came the “hunt for the empty seat.” I spotted one! Victory! Except—plot twist—a man in his forties was already occupying the window seat, with the aisle seat acting as a resting table for his belongings: keys, a sunglasses case, and a sad, empty Costa coffee cup.
I stood there, hovering silently , hoping my polite stare would magically work. He looked up, gave me the classic head-to-toe scan and then… pulled out a train ticket from his back pocket.
Yes. The man thought I was a TICKET CHECKER. All because I had worn a black top with shiny gold buttons and was carrying a crossbody bag like a responsible aunty avoiding pickpockets.
I blinked. He waved the ticket. I burst out laughing. “I want the seat, not your ticket, sir!” I said between gasps.
The previously silent train carriage suddenly exploded in laughter. People chuckled, phones were lowered, even that one guy with AirPods gave a smirk. Friday morning turned into stand-up comedy hour, courtesy of my accidental outfit as a TC (Ticket Collector, not TikTok Creator).
The man sheepishly cleared his things and made space. When he got off the train, he patted my shoulder and gave me the peace sign and ' I am sorry mate gesture!"
Ash later said I should’ve taken his ticket and muttered, “This ticket is valid for one seat only,” just to seal the comedy deal. Missed opportunity!
But honestly… it was one of those beautiful, silly, laugh-till-your-eyes-water moments that stays with you. In a world often too serious, I was glad that a random outfit and a bit of confusion brought smiles to a bunch of strangers—and made one ordinary Friday morning feel absolutely extraordinary...
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