The passengers around them began to relax into their seats, the tension dissipating like morning mist under the sun’s warm gaze. The flight attendants, who had been at their wits’ end, exchanged looks of relief and admiration.

Henry gestured to the empty first-class seat beside him. “Would you mind staying here, just for a little while?” he asked. “I’d appreciate the company.”

Mason hesitated, glancing back at the economy section, but the allure of spacious comfort won him over. He nodded and settled into the plush seat, placing his backpack carefully by his feet.