Running from Royalty

Chapter 3-2

Josef was as good as his word—the private plane was waiting for us once we got to Pearson Airport, our visas expedited and a security escort to the steps. We were the only ones on board the sleek, bullet-shaped jet, making me feel even more self-conscious.

Lily settled in just fine, going around the cabin to check on every electronic gadget available before taking the seat next to me and fastening her seat belt. The flight attendant came out and delivered a short, snappy safety session, along with taking drink requests.

"Coffee, please. For both of us," I said before Lily could answer.

A few minutes later, the pilot announced we were taxiing out to the runway for takeoff.

My stomach twisted into knots as the floor started vibrating, the engines a slow hum.

"I can't..." I blurted out to Lily as we began to move. "I can't do this."

"What?" She jerked a thumb at the window beside her. "Hate to tell you, but we're in no position to stop this thing."

"No, not the jet." I glanced out the window as we began to pick up speed, the tarmac whizzing by. "I mean... I can't just show up unannounced." The falling sensation beneath my feet signaled a successful takeoff. "Josef's a sweet guy, but Teddy doesn't need another shock right now. I might be on that list but if he doesn't want me there, it'd be wrong to force it."

Lily pressed her lips into a tight line for a few seconds before responding. "Can't disagree with you on that point." She tapped her seat belt, fingernails rapping on the cold metal. "Tell you what, let's call him. If he freaks out and dumps us, we can turn around. Although I'll be pissed at missing my shopping stop in Paris."

I laughed in spite of the situation. "Okay, okay."

The pilot's voice came through the intercom, announcing we'd be leveling off in a few minutes and our expected flight time to Ansulenia was eight hours, weather permitting.

The flight attendant approached us, carrying a tray with two cups of coffee. She smiled as we accepted the mugs.

"Is there a phone on board?" I showed her my cell phone. "The roaming charges will kill me. Do you have one I can use?"

The tall woman nodded. "Of course. Just a minute."