The gate agent nodded swiftly and retreated down the jet bridge. The tense, frozen atmosphere in the airplane began to thaw as normal operational rhythms slowly returned.
Captain Miller tipped his hat to Marcus.
“We will make up the time over Newfoundland. The winds are in our favor tonight, Mr. Coleman. Zara will arrive right on schedule.”
“Thank you, Captain,” Marcus replied warmly. “Ensure my daughter gets a hot meal, and let the cockpit door remain locked according to standard protocol.”
Marcus then walked over to Row 1 and knelt beside Zara. He brushed a stray strand of hair from her forehead.
“You handled that with tremendous grace, Z.”
“You always said that panic is just an emotional surcharge on a problem that requires logic,” Zara replied, a small smile finally gracing her lips.
“I did say that,” Marcus smiled proudly. “And you proved it tonight. You kept your head when an entire cabin expected you to break or back down.”
