Chapter 10: Signals

Reesa’s father used to tell her that people, like diamonds, could become their most beautiful under pressure. In the blur that was the experience of turbulence, an emergency landing, several medical examinations, and a temporary shelter that was not on the itinerary, she saw shining examples of that concept.

Mrs. Vitale refused to be separated from Harper even after the cut on her head was patched up. That was why, now that their group was settled in a high-rise hotel for a few nights, Harper was helping Mrs. Vitale video call her grandchildren, while Reesa was being waited on by Myko.

“How are you feeling?” he asked and handed her a steaming cup of chamomile tea.

Bundled in blankets before a roaring fire, Reesa described her tenuous calm.

“I’m sorry. I all but promised that you’d be safe,” he said as he looked at her from the floor where he sat with crossed legs.

“You couldn’t predict a freak storm,” she said and was then compelled to place a hand on her chest.