In The Air

Chapter 1

I looked up from the counter and smiled at the next passenger. It was amazing how much holiday season made my job bearable.

The honeymoon couple slowly sauntered over to the counter, oblivious of the world around them and I couldn't help but sigh. If only I had the time for love like that.

Juggling a full time job as a airport ticket agent and a full time college degree had kept my store filled to the brim. I barely even get to see my mom over the holidays. My heart choked up a little at the thought of her spending the Christmas Eve, staring outside the window.

I took a deep breath as I punched the the honeymoon couple's ticket and sent them off their way with a smile. I couldn't complain about my job. It's the only thing that has kept a roof on our heads and pays my college fees.

My smile quivered at the thought of everything that has happened since Brian...

"Excuse me?" a deep, throaty voice interrupted my thoughts. I shook myself out of my daydream and looked up to meet the most beautiful pair of hazel eyes I've ever come across. As my gaze travelled all over his face, I noticed the slight confusion in his features before his eyes twinkled with mischief.

"Blown away by my haggard face, are we?" he joked in his velvety smooth voice. My eyes went wide and I realized I'd been staring far too long for it to be polite.

" I'm so sorry, sir. I got lost in my thoughts. May I see your booking and id please?" I quickly mumbled. He didn't take his eyes off me as he pulled up the booking on his phone and handed it over to me. Our fingers brushed ever so lightly as I took it from his hands. My heart was not even in my chest anymore. I couldn't believe I was allowing a customer to have this effect on me. I couldn't believe I was allowing anyone to have this effect on me at all.

Realizing where this situation was leading, I quickly printed his ticket and handed it over to him as I checked in his luggage. I trained my eyes on the computer screen instead of flashing him my signature holiday smile.

He stood there for a moment, just looking at me. "Well, looks like I'll be seeing more of you soon, Ms. Chambers," he finally said as he started to walk away. I didn't dare to look up until the next passenger stood in front of my desk and cleared his throat.

I flashed him a wobbly smile and took his booking details. As I entered his name into the system, I sneaked a quick look towards the departure gates and saw the last of his back before he disappeared around the corner.

"Matt Sinclair," I thought, "I hope we never meet again."