Chapter 1: Introduction
Craning my neck, I checked the length of the endless security line at Los Angeles International Airport, wondering for the hundredth time if I had allowed enough time to make it through security and reach the gate before departure.
The line stood still, so I stood on my tiptoes and stretched, easing the tightness in my lower back caused from hours spent guiding restless, and sometimes disrespectful passengers, into their seats and ensuring their general safety.
My cell phone buzzed in my back pocket, I retrieved it and saw a message from Alex, the co-pilot of the flight I was boarding.
"Running late, I presume? I'll be sure to keep your seat warm."
A playful, charming smile graced my face, as it always did when I thought of Alex. I met him about six months earlier on a flight to New York where we went from co-workers, to confidants and eventually to friends with benefits during our cross-country flights.
Never one to shy away from a challenge, I fired back, "I'm sure you'll be successful, but in the event it goes cold, just know there's always the opportunity to warm it up again."
Finally, I reached the safety check, traded my sunglasses for a smile and sailed through security. With a little luck, I had twenty minutes to grab a coffee and meet Alex at the gate.
"Ma'am, we need to check your bag." The security agent waved my bag, giving me a curt look.
I glanced at my watch and reluctantly allowed her to dig through my belongings. It seemed like an eternity before she handed me back my passport and laptop, and waved me on.
I sprinted towards the gate, eyes darting back and forth searching for Alex, finally spotting him at a nearby coffee shop laughing with the barista as she handed him a steaming cup.
I figured you'd be cutting it close, as always, so I decided to grab a cup of coffee and enjoy the view." Alex winked and handed me the cup.
I took a much-needed sip, relishing the warmth of the liquid against my chilled skin. "Well, I'm glad to see you haven't lost your charm since the last time we flew together."
"And I'm glad to see you haven't lost your wit. But, come on, we need to board.
I'm sure you haven't forgotten that you're my co-pilot for the next couple of hours." I arched an eyebrow, subtly hinting at what was to come.
Alex finished his coffee and placed it on the counter. "I would never forget, my dear. The cockpit awaits."
Together we made our way towards the plane, passing the assortment of passengers, each with their own unique look and style, but all with a common destination.
I greeted a few familiar faces from previous flights, all the while stealing caressing glances at Alex.
We reached the narrow corridor leading to the cockpit, the muscles in my body tensed as I felt the weight of the next few hours drawing closer. Despite our attraction, we remained professional during these moments, creating the illusion of two coworkers casually making their way to their posts.
Once we entered the cockpit, Alex closed the door behind us and the energy in the room shifted instantly. A palpable tension filled the space, thick with anticipation and longing.