Chapter 6. Sophie.

I hate flying. That is the thought that confounds me the moment I step on the plane. It is why I rarely take trips that require me to board planes unless it is absolutely necessary. Unfortunately, this happens to be one of them. Looking out the window, I try to calm my racing heart by focusing on the floating clouds, trying to admire the beautiful scenery before me. It doesn't work much.

The plane rumbles beneath me as I clutch the armrests, my knuckles turning white. My breaths are shallow, and my heart races faster than the engines propelling us through the sky. Anxiety tightens its grip on me, twisting my stomach into knots. Looking away from the window, I squeeze my eyes shut, pressing my back against the lush leather seats, my jumbled nerves making it impossible for me to relax.

The air hostess must have noticed my distress as she appears beside me, all smiles and professional composure. "Good afternoon, ma'am. We'll be landing in the Netherlands shortly. Please fasten your seatb