Carol Sandoval’s smile deepened the lines around her tired eyes as she welcomed Ping, Mara and Sam into the living room of her split-level brick home. She pushed an unruly strand of silver hair behind her ear as she pointed them toward a long couch the color of oatmeal. Once they were seated, she sat across from them in a high-backed leather chair where she listed to one side, using the arm for support instead of sitting back. For a moment there wasn’t a sound except for the ticking of the grandfather clock in the corner of the room.
“Thank you so much for seeing us,” Ping said. “I was sorry to read of Mr. Sandoval’s illness and wanted to make sure he knew the passengers appreciated his efforts to keep us safe on the flight.”
“That is so kind of you.” She settled back in her chair. “It’s
