Flight

[thefirststark]

The space within the SXF-16 is cramped. Three seats, and room for maybe two suitcases. Ask anyone who flew on the Pan Am clipper ships, and they would say that this is a step backwards. But ask anyone who sat at the controls of the SF-12 Mockingbird or SF-11 Vulture, and he would be thrilled there's room for a co-pilot.

Howard opens the hatch from the outside, leading his passenger aboard.

"Welcome aboard, Helena."

Comments

[thefirststark]

He's vaguely aware of Helena's eyes. She is unlike any woman he's met in a long time.

But the plane comes first and he never wavers in his focus as the plane begins its descent, as the runway comes into view.

[timelessinventor]

She doesn't say anything, as she completely understands things such as these require a good deal of concentration.

As the runway comes into view, she sits back a bit again, trying not to cling to the arms of the seat once again. Her determination only goes so far, and she takes a tiny, shaky breath. It has nothing to do with Howard, just her own nervousness.

[thefirststark]

With the sun at their backs, the SXF-16 touches down and slows. As she does, three cars begin to close the distance. Howard looks back as he feels the motion stop.

"Looks like my welcoming crew is on time."

[timelessinventor]

Helena laughs. "Must be good to have a welcoming committee like that." She relaxes as the plane stops. "Thank you so much, Howard, that was absolutely lovely."

[thefirststark]

He isn't going to tell her that the welcoming crew is there more to inspect the prototype than to check on him. Which is what he pays them for.

"Any time, Helena. And we will do this again, that is certain." He leans over and clutches her left hand. "Only maybe you'll get to land."

If not next time, soon.