I unbuckled my seat belt and stood. The aisle seemed to stretch forever as I walked forward, every passenger watching. The captain removed his cap. “Ms. Carrington, the board confirmed the transfer ten minutes ago. I was instructed to hold this flight until you were personally welcomed aboard.” Gloria’s mouth fell open. My father finally looked up, and the color drained from his face.

Gloria laughed, thin and sharp. “This is absurd. Hannah has no money.” The captain handed me a leather folder without looking at her. Inside was the signed transfer, my name printed across the top. Brandon’s fiancée lowered her phone. Then the lead flight attendant leaned in and whispered, “Ma’am, Mr. Whitlock, your father’s business partner, is seated in row three, and he has been listening.”