“Thank you for your kindness,” she said to the boy, offering him a seat in the crew area for takeoff and landing. “We appreciate passengers like you.”

Lily, though still fussing, was calmer now. Her cries were less insistent, as if sensing the shift in mood around her. I rocked her gently, murmuring soothing words while the plane prepared for takeoff.

The boy returned later, standing nearby when allowed, and we struck up a conversation. His name was Alex, and he was traveling to visit his own grandmother. He shared stories about her, the difficulties she faced, and how his family always tried to support her. It was heartwarming and reminded me that kindness could be found even in the most unexpected places.