Most offered the usual smiles and polite thanks.
“Have a good day, Captain.”
“Beautiful flight.”
“Thank you.”
Then she saw Sophie.
The little girl stood beside her mother, clutching a small pink backpack. Her dark curls were gathered into two uneven puffs, and her eyes widened when she recognized Elena.
“Mom,” she whispered. “That’s her.”
Her mother smiled.
“Yes, sweetheart. That’s Captain Elena.”
Sophie took a small step forward, then stopped.
Elena crouched to meet her at eye level.
“Hello, Sophie.”
The girl’s mouth fell open.
“You know my name?”
“I do. Clara showed me your beautiful drawing.”
Sophie’s cheeks turned pink.
“You liked it?”
“I loved it.”
“Even the airplane? I know the wings aren’t exactly right.”
Elena laughed softly.
“Let me tell you a secret. When I was learning to fly, I made mistakes, too. Nobody starts out knowing everything.”
Sophie looked surprised.
“You did?”
“Oh, absolutely.”
“Even you?”
