The hum of the plane's engines filled the cabin, a steady background to the soft murmurs of passengers. Christine and Stevie sat side by side, their conversation flowing easily as they discussed the upcoming show. Everything seemed perfectly in place, but when Christine glanced over Stevie's shoulder, her focus shifted. A few seats to their left, Jenn was seated alone, her brow furrowed in concentration as she rummaged through her purse. Her movements were hurried, almost frantic, and there was a faint shadow of discomfort on her face. Christine's heart twinged with concern."Excuse me for a moment, Stevie," Christine said, gently placing a hand on her friend's arm. Stevie followed Christine's gaze to Jenn and nodded knowingly. "Go on. I'll hold the fort."Christine stood and made her way over, watching as Jenn pulled a small bottle from her purse. Jenn unscrewed the cap, shaking out a pill, and popped it into her mouth, chasing it with a sip from her water bottle. She barely noticed Christine until a warm hand settled on her shoulder."Jenn, love," Christine said softly, her voice filled with concern. "Are you alright? And don't just say you're fine if you're not. I can tell something's bothering you."Jenn startled slightly, looking up into Christine's gentle, worried eyes. She hesitated, then sighed, offering a small smile. "It's just a headache. Nothing serious. I've already taken something for it, so it should kick in soon."Christine's lips pressed into a sympathetic line as she lowered herself into the empty seat beside Jenn. "Alright, love, I'll take your word for it. But you know what always helps me when I've got a headache?"Jenn tilted her head curiously. "What?""Sleep," Christine replied, her voice kind and soothing. "I know we're stuck on this plane, and it's not exactly the coziest place to rest, but you might feel better if you just closed your eyes for a bit. At least until the medicine does its job."Jenn shook her head slightly, a faint chuckle escaping her lips. "I've never been good at sleeping on planes. Something about it just feels... strange. I can't relax."Christine's gaze softened as she reached out, brushing a loose strand of hair behind Jenn's ear. "I understand, love. But it's worth trying, isn't it? Just lean back, close your eyes, and let the hum of the plane carry you. I'm right here if you need anything."Jenn hesitated but nodded, her eyes fluttering closed. She leaned her head back against the seat, attempting to rest, but Christine could see her fidgeting, the tension still evident in her posture. A gentle smile tugged at Christine's lips as an idea sparked.Without a word, Christine leaned closer and began to softly sing *Songbird*. Her voice was low and tender, barely a whisper above the plane's steady hum. The familiar melody wrapped around Jenn like a comforting blanket, easing the furrow from her brow. Jenn's breathing began to even out, her body relaxing as her head slowly drooped. Within moments, she shifted, her head coming to rest against Christine's shoulder. Christine stilled, letting Jenn settle against her. She glanced down at Jenn's peaceful face and felt her heart swell with affection.As Christine sat there, Stevie turned in her seat to see what had kept her friend away for so long. When she spotted Jenn asleep on Christine's shoulder, a soft smile spread across her face. Rising quietly, Stevie padded over and crouched beside them."What happened?" Stevie whispered, her tone laced with curiosity and amusement.Christine looked up, her expression glowing with a mix of pride and fondness. "She had a headache and couldn't relax enough to sleep. So I sang to her. She's out like a light now."Stevie's eyes sparkled as she glanced at Jenn. "You're something else, Christine. You've got the magic touch."Christine chuckled softly, her fingers lightly brushing Jenn's arm. "I think she just needed someone to remind her it's okay to rest."Stevie reached out and gave Christine's knee a squeeze. "You've got a big heart. She's lucky to have you."Christine shook her head, her gaze never leaving Jenn's peaceful face. "No, Stevie. I'm the lucky one."Stevie smiled warmly, her eyes glinting with affection for her friend. "Well, I'll leave you to it. Don't let that arm go numb." With a playful wink, she rose and returned to her seat.As the plane continued to glide through the clouds, Christine leaned her head gently against Jenn's, humming the last notes of *Songbird* under her breath. For a brief, precious moment, the chaos of the tour melted away, leaving only the quiet comfort of being there for someone who mattered deeply.
