For the first time since we had entered the airport, I felt uncertain about what would happen next.
The cabin seemed quieter than before.
Passengers who had been chatting moments earlier appeared to be paying attention to the announcement. Somewhere nearby, a seat belt clicked into place.
I glanced at Mason.
Only moments earlier, he had been practically glowing with happiness. Now he was watching the front of the aircraft with a seriousness that seemed far beyond his seven years.
I wanted to reassure him, but I didn’t yet know what I was reassuring him about.
So I simply held his hand.
Sometimes, the most comforting thing a parent can do is remain present when a situation becomes confusing.
We listened as Tyler continued speaking.
Whatever came next, I knew one thing for certain: this was no longer unfolding according to the plan I had carefully imagined.
I had purchased the tickets because I wanted to surprise my husband and give our son a memory he would cherish forever.
