undeniable feelings | a stephchelle story

Chapter 52 - hand to hold

— MICHELLES POV —

I'm wheeled out onto the windy runway as Stephanie pushes my chair towards a small American Airlines plane.
"The people in charge of the news channel are offering to pay for our flights and accommodation." Linda shouts over the intense wind, our hairs blow in our faces uncontrollably.

The metal ramp automatically opens as my wheel nears the tiny plane.
"Wait, we've got a private plane?" Stephanie confusingly yells in shock.
"Yes you do indeed." I feel masculine voice projects. A tall posh looking man steps out of the plane carefully, smiling at us.
"I'm Martin, one of the hosts on good morning America, we can't wait to have you." He beams welcomingly as he holds his hand out to Stephanie and Linda, shortly after smiling at me sympathetically.

As I'm wheeled inside, I'm overcome with shock. This plane is like nothing I've ever been on. There are only a few seats and there's so much space, there's a miniature bar AND dining table.
"This is amazing!" My nan gasps as she feels around the plane, gasping at every minor detail that she loves.

I manage to turn my head slightly up at Stephanie, her expression is a lot more different to my nans. A shocked and worried expression overpowers her like a tsunami. She looks down at me, instantly turning her worry into a fake smile to please me.

As soon as the door shuts, the planes engine rumbles aggressively. I sit opposite Stephanie as she tensely grips the seat. That's when I realise what's going on, she's afraid of flying. I manage to slightly hold my hand out in order for her to meet with hers in the middle. At first she doesn't notice my hand, but eventually, she reluctantly reaches out her hand as she frantically looks around.
"It's okay." I weakly whisper, pulling off a smile.
"I'm so scared, I've never flown before." She whimpers as she squeezes my hand tightly.

I look over at my nan as she makes the most of the bar, sitting at it as she sips on a coke politely. Stephanie continues to heavily breathe, not letting go of my hand. The plane begins to speed through the smooth runway, causing her breaths to become louder, and heavier as she shakes uncontrollably.
"It's okay." I whisper over and over as I stroke the palm of her hand.

Eventually we're airborne, tilting to the side slightly, giving us an immense view of Toronto's skyline.
"It's so beautiful." Stephanie gasps as she smiles brightly, overcoming her fear. She's right, it is beautiful, just like her.

I look out at the fluffy clouds as we sore high above the ground. Stephanie switches seats, moving herself to the chair next to my wheelchair. It's the first time I've seen her up close in such a long time. She looks even more beautiful that I remember.

I realise that I'm staring right at her, and she staring right at me with her beautiful crystallised eyes. I use the last bit of my strength to reassure her with words.
"I'll always love you." I stutter. A clear tear escapes from her eye, but she instantly wipes it away.

She brings her lips close to mine, pressing them together as she holds my head in place so that I don't have to move it. Our kiss ends in seconds, Stephanie beams at me in exhilaration.
"And so will I." She responds.