As she reached her seat, however, the man sitting beside it reacted immediately. Franklin Delaney frowned deeply and raised his voice. “I don’t want to sit next to that woman!” he nearly shouted at the flight attendant.
The stewardess remained calm and professional. “Sir, this is her assigned seat. We can’t change that,” she replied gently.
Franklin shook his head in disbelief. “That’s impossible. These seats cost a lot. She couldn’t afford one—just look at her clothes!” he insisted.
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Stella’s face flushed as she lowered her gaze, embarrassed. She had chosen her best outfit for this special occasion, even if it wasn’t particularly elegant. Around them, a few passengers murmured in agreement with Franklin, even suggesting that she move elsewhere.
Feeling small and out of place, Stella spoke softly. “Miss, it’s okay. If there’s a seat in economy, I’ll take it. I used all my savings for this seat, but I don’t want to inconvenience anyone.”
But the stewardess gently shook her head, her voice firm yet kind. “No, ma’am. You paid for this seat, and you have every right to be here, no matter what others say.”
At last, Franklin let out an irritated sigh and stopped arguing. Stella remained in her seat.
After the plane took off, turbulence caused Stella to flinch, and in her nervousness, she accidentally dropped her purse onto the floor. Its contents scattered at her feet. Firstclass amenities
