[SDMN] Imagines

Minizerk #5

Set in late 1960's

A hoard of people shuffled their way onto the airplane in a tight single-filed line. Already, kids were screaming and babies were crying. I, at this point, did not pay much attention to these sounds. Instead, I was busy greeting passengers with one of my co-hostesses. The third air hostess was drowning in the aisle as she helped people to their seats.

Passengers boarding would occasionally give a confused glare when I said, 'hello.' This was something else I did not pay much attention to anymore. I understand their surprise. I must be the only male flight attendant to exist.

The best part about boarding was seeing what everyone thought was their best attire. Air travel isn't cheap. You better dress your best. Men always wore the same black or gray suit and tie; Although I'm not complaining too much. I love a man in a suit. Women, in their usual skirts and dresses, at least had bright colors and a variety of fabrics to dress in. I watched as the last man, wearing a navy blue suit, boarded. He gave me the longest stare of all. He had dark brown hair and a beard to match. His seat was towards the back, where I sit during flights. Being next to the restroom is about as fun as you'd think it is.

One of the air hostesses went into the safety spiel as everyone settled in. I made my way to the very back once she was finished. As I walked past the seats I checked for seat belts to be buckled. The engine started to roar and the propellers buzzed with such voracity. Immediately the plane filled with the smoke of tobacco. Some smoking cigarettes, others cigars. Honestly, I didn't hate it.

Nearing the final few rows, I saw the same guy who had boarded last. He was smoking and reading a magazine, probably one handed out by the other hostess. Soon he noticed me too. Again, he was staring at me for long, almost studying my face. I could feel my face heat up. Panic overwhelmed me. I can't blush like this over a guy in public!

~

An hour into the flight all had gone well. No major turbulence, nobody puking, and no hijackings. Only an hour left. Halfway through means it's time to serve the passengers food and drinks.

I joined with my fellow flight attendants at the front to help serve as we make our way to the back. All I could think about was what will happen when we reach the man near the back? Will I get stuck serving him? What will he say to me? Did he catch me blushing? These questions buzzed in my head as we inched closer. And closer. And closer. 

While the person next to him was sleeping, he was awake. And grinning at me. My whole face flushed when I stood next to him.

"H-How are you today, sir? Can I start you off with something to drink?" I managed to squeak out in one sentence. 

"I'll have a brandy, thank you- err, uhh... Simon." He looked at my name tag. The sound of ice cubes clinking in the glass helped cool me off. I steadily poured in the drink despite the constant shaking of the plane. "I've never seen a male flight attendant before. Didn't know you could be one." the stranger chuckled. 

"Yes, I'm an oddity." I laughed with him.

"I suppose it doesn't matter as long as you're as attractive as the lovely ladies." He took the drink, his fingers touching mine. My eyes widened when I felt him graze my hand. Was this really happening right now or is it all in my head? 

"Could I serve you anything to eat? Our fine prime rib?" The words rushed out of my mouth.

"No, thank you. I think I'll save my appetite. For later." He brandished a smile and donned a look on his face that made my stomach sink. I was pretty sure I knew what he was getting at.

Yet, I couldn't believe it was happening either. 

After we finished serving the guests, I sat back in my uncomfortable seat. Fidgeting with my hands. I stared at the back of his head. I was shocked at how brazen he was in such an enclosed, public space. Perhaps it was in my head, I reconsidered. Most of all, I was embarrassed for how red my face must've been. If he wasn't being obvious, I sure was. Flustered in front of everyone.

Then he stood up. I froze. Slowly, calmly, he strolled up to me. His gaze locking with mine. He didn't let go. My heart pounded faster the closer he got. A smirk grew on his face. He continued walking straight into the restroom.

I waited for a moment. First to contemplate if I should do this. Second to make sure enough time had gone by that people forgot he went in there. Never had I done this on a plane before. Despite how much time I spend on one. Hooking up with guys in public is nerve-wracking in general, but on something as small as a plane is absolutely terrifying!

But I kept thinking about his face. And his coy smile.

I opened the door. It was unlocked. He must've been expecting me. When I entered he seemed surprised. Perhaps I got it wrong, and he had just forgotten to lock it.

"I'm sorry I thought-"

He grabbed me by my uniform collar and kissed me hard.

"You thought what?" he asked, short on breath. 

"Never mind." I whispered.

He swung me around so my back was against the wall not the door. We kissed again, this time more passionately. Butterflies plagued my stomach before sinking lower. As the kissing went on and on, I caught sight of a ring.

"Are you married?" I blurted out. Not exactly the most polite question to ask.

"Does it matter?" he challenged, grabbing me to make me release a moan.

"N-No..." I whimpered.

Not wanting to accidentally ruin the moment, I turned off my brain to enjoy the next short-lived five minutes. It was too bad I would never see this man again. I didn't even know his name.