Hey love, youve got to hear what went down on my flight the other day it felt like something straight out of a drama. I was sitting in the businessclass cabin on a LondontoNewYork flight, and the tension was hanging in the air like a storm cloud.
People kept glancing over at this frail old lady as soon as she shuffled into her seat. She was in a simple, tidy dress the nicest thing she owned for such a special occasion. Her name was Poppy Whitcombe, and at eightyfive she was on her very first airplane. Shed saved up for this trip her whole life, and the airport staff even had an attendant walking her through the terminals so she wouldnt get lost.
Just as the plane was cruising, a bloke in his early forties Victor Clarke, a welldressed businessman with a sneer on his face stormed over to the stewardess.
Im not sitting next to that lady! he bellowed, staring at Poppys modest outfit as if it were an insult to his status.
The stewardess, keeping her cool, replied, Im sorry, sir, but the ticket is hers. We cant move her seat.
Victor wasnt having it. These seats are far too pricey for someone like her, he muttered, looking around for anyone to back him up. A few passengers gave him a nod, others just rolled their eyes.
Poppy stayed quiet, her hands clenched tight under the table. Then, with a soft sigh, she raised her frail hand and said, Its alright if theres a seat in economy, Ill move. Ive been saving for this flight my whole life and I dont want to trouble anyone.
She was trembling, but the stewardess stood her ground. MrsWhitcombe, you paid for this seat, and you have every right to be here. No ones taking that away from you. She gave Victor a sharp look and added, If you dont stop, Ill call security.
Victor snorted and fell silent, fuming under his breath.
The plane lifted higher, and in the sudden jolt Poppys handbag slipped from her lap. Before she could even gather herself, Victor, oddly, stepped forward without a word and helped her pick it up.
When he handed her the bag, his eyes caught on a little pendant dangling from the strap. It was a deepred stone, glinting like a ruby.
Nice piece, he remarked. Looks like a ruby. I know a thing or two about antiques thats worth a fair sum.
Poppy smiled faintly. I have no idea its value. My dad gave it to my mum before he went off to war and never came back. Mum passed it to me when I was ten. She opened the locket, revealing two faded photographs: a young couple in a garden and a chubby little boy beaming at the camera.
These are my parents, she whispered, her voice soft. And this thats my son.
Victor, perplexed, asked gently, Are you flying to see him?
No, Poppy lowered her eyes. I gave him up for adoption when he was a baby. I had no husband, no job nothing to give him a decent life. I only just found out who he is thanks to a DNA test. I wrote to him, but he said he didnt want to know.
She swallowed, eyes misty. Today would have been his birthday. I just wanted to be near him, even for a minute.
Victors face went pale. Then why are you on this flight?
A weak smile flickered on Poppys lips, and a deep sadness settled in her gaze. Hes the captain of this very aircraft. This is the only way I can be close to him, even if its just a glance.
Victor was left speechless, his cheeks flushing with shame. He dropped his gaze to the armrest.
The stewardess, hearing everything, slipped quietly into the cockpit. A few minutes later the captains voice crackled over the intercom.
Ladies and gentlemen, well be beginning our descent into NewYork shortly. But before we land, Id like to address a special lady on board. Mother please stay after we touch down. I want to see you.
Poppy froze. Tears rolled down her cheeks, and the cabin fell into a hushed silence before a few people started clapping, some laughing through their tears.
When the plane finally taxied to the gate, the captain broke protocol he sprinted out of the cockpit, eyes wet, and threw his arms around Poppy, holding her as if trying to make up for years gone by.
Thank you, Mum, for everything youve done for me, he whispered, pressing her close.
She sobbed into his chest, I have nothing to forgive. Ive always loved you
Victor stood off to the side, head bowed, ashamed. He finally understood that beneath that tattered coat and the lines on her face lay a story of sacrifice and boundless love.
It wasnt just a flight, love it was a reunion of two hearts torn apart by time, finally finding each other again.
