Cold Hearted

Landing

Hailee's P.O.V

14 A window seat, I am excited and nervous to be on a plane. It's been a Long time since I had been back in L.A, but happy that I finally get to see my family after 4 years. Now don't get me wrong, New York was so much fun, especially the college life, but I miss my sunny California. And now I am finally moving back home.

"Woe, this is nice" there behind me, a deep soft voice speaks with a chuckle. There wasn't anything exciting happening outside since we had yet to take off, so I decided to see what the chatter was about. When I did turn around, a man with a wide happy smile sat down.

A man in what I would assume to be in his late stages in life sat beside me. For an old man he was fairly good looking. Must of been some chick magnet when he was my age. That or his glow up hit him very late. His white new balances and faded blue jeans gave off the typical Barbecue dad vibes. And I would know since my dad probably has the same outfit.

"It's my first time on a plane" he leans in just a little still trying to keep his manners in giving people their personal space. I can see it in his hands the shaking nerves but is trying to stay calm.

"You've never flown before." I turn my body to give him my full attention.

The old man closed his eyes, gathering his courage. Taking a deep breath he released it after holding it for a second or two before opening them and looking at me.  "Not once. I have a fear of heights. When I traveled I would usually take a car or boat if I went over seas." he said adjusting himself to be more comfortable. Still he gripped the armrest with all his might.

"Why the sudden change of heart" I asked.

Now, normally I would mind my own business, but this grandpa seemed more interesting than the magazines stashed in the seats. Even my music was starting to get over played. And well he started the conversation, might as well tag along during this 5 hr trip.

The old man laughed a bit, his eyes locked on the seat in front of him. His smile never left his lips, in fact they seem to be spreading wider. He took a deep breath then looked my way.

"Im going to visit someone. She is like a granddaughter to me and well its been a year since I last saw her."

"She must be something special if she is the reason you are conquering your fear of heights."

"She" he paused for a second, almost thinking of the next words to say. "This week is her 21st birthday. Its a big day and--"

"you wanna be there to celebrate it with her. That is so nice" I said in awe.

"No-no, she doesn't celebrate her birthday. I've tried once but... well it never ended like its supposed to. No, it's an important day because she is starting a new job and I want to be there to support her."

"Still it's nice of you to go out of your way for someone you care about. I'm Hailee, by the way" I extend my hand towards him.

"Alfred" he takes a gentle hold of my hand shaking it once, twice, three times before he lets go.

"I guess we both have something to celebrate today Alfred. I'm also starting a new job. It's only an intern position but it's paid which is good. Plus, if Im really good I could possibly work there full time. It's sorta my dream to work there" I tell him honestly.

"Well good luck Mrs. Hailee" he says kindly.

Yes, good luck. Heaven knowns I need all the luck I could get. I didn't go to one of the top university in New York to not get a full time position at the biggest tech companies in the world. I did not give up 4 years of my life to studying day in and day out, getting top grades only to just be an intern. No, not me.