A surprise

Finally, they boarded the flight. Esme's stomach lurched as she saw her assigned seat. Sharing it with Silas was the last thing she wanted, her apprehension plain for all to see. She looked at Caleb with a pleading expression and asked, "Um, Caleb, can we exchange seats?"

Silas's expression darkened as he realized that Esme was unwilling to sit with him. He shot a glare at Caleb, who squirmed uncomfortably in his seat.

"Um, of course," Caleb said awkwardly, quickly exchanging seats with Esme.

"Thank you so much. You are a savior," Esme said, visibly relieved.

"You are welcome."

Silas scowled at her, his ego clearly bruised. "What do you mean? Do you think I'm going to eat you if you sit with me?"

Esme felt her temper rising, but she forced herself to take a deep breath and remain calm. "I didn't mean anything by it. I was just grateful to Caleb for switching seats with me."