and I lucked out with an emptyseat next to me!As the plane began to ascend, I couldn’t help but feel excited. I was well-prepared for my presentation, hoping the investors would like it.A few minutes into the flight, a friendly-looking flight attendant named Bethany approached me with a tray of drinks. “Can I get you something to sip on?” she asked with a smile. “Just orange juice, please,” I replied, raising my hand to accept the glass. As I did, Bethany glanced down at the birthmark on my wrist. “I’m sorry, could I have your passport, please?” she asked suddenly.Well, that’s strange, I thought. Confused but not wanting to argue, I handed it over. Bethany looked it over carefully before returning it with a nod. “Just a standard protocol check. Thank you!”
Sounds cool. A short while later, Bethany returned to my seat. “Excuse me, will you be in a rush after we land?” she asked. “Yeah, I’ve got a connecting flight to catch and I’m already running late,” I explained as I subconsciously clasped my hands together.”Well, the pilot wants to speak with you after we land.” “The pilot?” I asked. “Why? Can’t he just talk to me now?” “I’m afraid not,” Bethany replied in a serious tone.
My big meeting was hanging in the balance, and I didn’t want to risk missing my connection. But Bethany’s insistence made me feel like this was something important.
As the plane touched down and the other passengers began filing out, I steeled myself and waited patiently for the pilot to approach.When the cabin was finally empty, a tall man with graying hair entered, his eyes immediately locking onto mine.
At that point, I literally dropped my bag and jacket. My jaw just about hit the floor because I could’ve sworn I had seen this man before. I instantly recognized him from old photos my mom had shown me. This was Steve, her childhood friend.
But the man didn’t look happy to see me.In fact, tears were streaming down his face as he threw his arms around me in a tight embrace.
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