It is a Sunday after Thanksgiving, one of the busiest days of the year for air travel. Tonight, the gate was packed with weary travelers, most of them standing and huddled along the walls because the meager allotment of plastic chairs had long since been taken.
Some tried to smile. Some just stared at the floor and waited. They were probably silently asking themselves why they had chosen this day to travel.
Suddenly, the gate agents came to life and passengers inched forward. The first announcement was made and those in first class moved forward. Then the others followed behind, bidding a last goodbye to their families.
(107 words)
