Page 65 - 2022-2023 Creative Writing

The Crowded Bus

Everyone's gaze was fixed on me as I stepped up the small stairs, giving me side glances or dissatisfied looks that almost asked me

to leave. Many people began to join after me, resulting in us being crammed together with no room to move freely except to vibrate
at the designated location. Every seat was occupied. Those who stood were nearly three times the number of people seated,
gripping tightly on the iron rod or the painful plastic handle. As many bodies guard mine with theirs, I can’t help but feel
claustrophobic. Soon after, the driver exited the bus, which had probably exceeded its weight limit, causing many passengers to

lose their balance of their feet and overlap each other at every stop and turn. When I look around, I see many people looking out
the window, their eyes darting around, whereas the majority are on their phones, scrolling.

Those who dozed off usually awoke to the startling realization that they had

missed their stops.

The foul odor of sweat and dirt spreads through the atmosphere over time to the point where you will get a whiff of the suffocating
smell no matter where your head is directed. Despite this, everyone disregards the uncomfortable situation and stand motionless
with no expression of disgust on their face. The deafening chatter of the passengers, the constant humming of the engine, or the
frustrated honking of those behind the wheel can all be heard over the radio. All of this, combined with the high temperature of

many people's body heat, is enough to make a frail man faint. As some passengers board the bus, many leave. There were a few
people who were fortunate enough to get the chance to relax their legs on the seats during this cluttered flurry of activity.

I couldn't help but feel tuckered out and my heart was beating

dysrhythmically after standing for a while with a limited amount of oxygen

supply.

When the bus almost arrived at my destination, I couldn’t help but to feel compelled, as if all eyes were on me, watching every

micro-movement I made. I gathered every ounce of courage I could muster and made my way through the sea of people dressed
in every color.

A cool breeze hit my face, allowing my nostrils to breathe once again.

11B Mar al-Erdene .E