It was just another routine flight from Hong Kong to Manchester for Flight attendant Nigel Grimond until he spied sexy bodybuilder Phil Wilson crammed in seat 12E. Upgrading Phil to business class, Nigel spent as much time as possible talking with the man as well as admiring his muscles and his eagle tattoo. As a thank you for the upgrade, Phil asks Nigel out to dinner at a village pub. Pessimistic at his chances of scoring with such a hunk, Nigel’s hopes are lifted by his psychic friend Tracy who is convinced this is Nigel’s big chance at finding love. Nigel waits at the pub for Phil, who is running late. Through a series of text messages, Phil assures Nigel he won’t be long. But after two hours of waiting, Nigel goes home alone. Phil begs for a second chance, so Nigel is back at the pub the next night, but the excellent food and friendly bar staff will be little consolation if Nigel is stood up a second time. What if Phil doesn’t show? Why is Tracy so insistent that all signs point to love? Shouldn’t Nigel just go home, get drunk, and forget all about strong muscles and tattooed eagle wings?

With These Wings

Staring at himself in the mirror while he washed his hands and splashed cold water on his face, Nigel wondered if he was being played again. Phil was over a quarter of an hour late. Should he text the guy or just walk out and…


The door to the gents squeaked open. Nigel turned, maybe it was Phil come to…But it was a teenager who made a beeline for the cubicle, locking its door behind him.


Back in the bar area, a waitress carrying a tray of food passed Nigel. The soup looked and smelled appetising. And hopefully it wouldn’t fill him up too much so he could still eat when Phil arrived. “If Phil arrives,” he said under his breath.


After ordering his meal, Nigel returned to his seat. He waited until eight P.M. to text Tracy


I’m here, but mr muscles is not. AGAIN!


Within moments, Tracy texted back, B patient


Nigel returned with, ok will give him a bit longer Although how much remained to be seen.


Chapter 5