Franklin leaned closer, nodding thoughtfully. Then he pointed at another picture tucked inside. “Is that your grandchild?”
Stella shook her head softly. “No, that’s my son — and he’s actually the reason I’m on this flight.”
Franklin looked surprised. “You’re going to visit him?” Pilottraining programs
Stella hesitated for a moment before answering. “No, this is the only way I can be near him.”
Franklin frowned slightly, confused. “What do you mean?”
Stella took a slow breath, gathering her thoughts. “Remember when I mentioned my financial struggles? When I was in my 30s, I became pregnant. My boyfriend left, and I had no one to support me. My mother had already passed away from dementia. I loved my baby, but I couldn’t give him a proper life, so I placed him for adoption.”
Franklin listened quietly. “Did you find each other later?” he asked.
“I tried,” Stella said. “I found him through a DNA website. A neighbor’s child helped me send him an email. His name is Josh. He replied once, saying he was fine and didn’t need me. I sent several more emails asking for forgiveness, but he never responded again.”
Franklin’s voice softened. “Then why are you on this flight if he doesn’t want to see you?”
Stella looked ahead, her eyes distant. “Because he’s the pilot. Today is his birthday — January 22, 1973. I’m getting older, and I don’t know how much time I have left. I just wanted to be close to him on at least one of his birthdays. This is the only way I can.”
