“After you. I insist.” She places one hand on her stomach and points toward the plane with the other like one of those airline demonstration videos.
“Oh. All right. Okie dokie,” I say as I make my way to the plane. Gosh, I would suck as a rich person. Why am I so awkward right now?
I’ve successfully made it up the stairs and onto the plane when my jaw drops.
Holy cannoli, this plane is stunning. Are thereArchitectural Digestmagazines for planes? Because this one would take the cake.
I’m afraid to touch anything. Everything screams money. From the massive ivory-colored seats to the lavish couches and tables that adorn the sides of the plane.
The male flight attendant opens a closet next to me and offers to take my coat.
“We also have your garment bag and luggage that were delivered from Bergdorf Goodman. We’ll make sure the gown travels safely by keeping it here during the flight.” He offers a warm smile.
“Gown?” I whisper, but before he can respond, a door at the back of the plane opens, and out walks Antonio.
How does he still look like a giant in this massive aircraft? More importantly, why does he look insanely attractive in a gray hoodie, black track pants, and Nike sneakers?
Our eyes meet, and his impassive face turns into a scowl.
Right on schedule.
“You’re late. As usual,” he says as a greeting.
“Well, good morning to you too, plane buddy. How’d ya sleep? How’s the fam? Good, I hope.” I offer a fake smile and make my way toward the closest window seat. To my surprise, Antonio takes the seat across from me.
I raise my eyebrow at him as he leans forward. “Let’s just set some ground rules here. I agreed to go on this trip for Amelia, but I’m not gonna be some overqualified bodyguard for you in the event you have too much to drink or lock yourself out of your room.”
“Aw, Tony, are you worried about me getting a hangover?” I ask sarcastically.
“Wouldn’t be the first time you couldn’t handle your liquor,” he says as he looks out the window.
My guilt stuns me into silence, and before I can respond, the female flight attendant interrupts us. “Can I get you guys anything before we take off? Coffee, tea, or perhaps some champagne?” She smiles sweetly, but only has eyes for Antonio.
I roll my eyes. Not like she would notice anyway. “I’ll have champagne; lord knows I’ll need it.”
“Nervous flier?” she asks.
“Nope. Just celebrating being in such great company.” I wink in Antonio’s direction.
The flight attendant uncomfortably shuffles from one foot to the other. “And a glass for you, sir?” She clears her throat, not knowing what to make of us as we openly stare each other down.
“Why not? It’s not like it’s six a.m. or anything.” He shrugs, then turns his megawatt smile on. Just for her.
The poor woman almost faints right then and there. “Co-coming right up. I’m Cortney, if you need anything,” she says three octaves too high for such an early hour.
I watch as she walks to the front of the plane and starts opening a bottle of Veuve Clicquot.
“It’s Antonio.”
I turn my attention to Mr. Grumpy Pants. “Huh?”
“You called me Tony. Only my friends and family call me Tony,” he says pointedly.
I release an unattractive snort.
This guy can’t be serious. I mean, I get it. We didn’t get off on the right foot. But it’s been seven years. We’ve both clearly moved on from that night. I mean…
“Here you go. Cheers!” Cortney says delightfully. She starts to walk away but stops and turns her attention back to us. “Oh, make sure to keep hold of those glasses. Captain says we’ll be flying through some light turbulence this morning.” Then she disappears.
