But that evening, she was exhausted.
Her shift had started before sunrise. An earlier flight had been delayed by a technical inspection, and the crew had spent hours waiting for clearance to continue their schedule. She had barely eaten anything since breakfast.
Still, she smiled when passengers asked questions.
“Ma’am, do you know when we’re leaving?” a woman asked.
“I don’t have a confirmed departure time yet, but the captain will update us as soon as we receive information.”
“That’s what the last person said.”
“I understand your frustration.”
“No, you don’t. You’re not the one paying for a hotel tonight.”
Danielle took a breath.
“I know this delay is affecting your plans, ma’am. I’m sorry we’re keeping you waiting.”
She moved toward the next row.
Then a voice behind her called out.
“Hey! I’m talking to you!”
Danielle stopped.
A man named Marcus Reed was standing in the aisle, holding his phone in one hand and a boarding pass in the other.
