Chapter 11 - THE HEARING THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING
The airline review took another month.
Evelyn's attorney presented the medical timeline.
The crew statements.
The physician's report.
The captain's diversion decision.
The evidence showed that Evelyn had recognized a medical emergency, summoned assistance, and followed established procedures.
The airline concluded that she had not violated its emergency-response policies.
Her leave ended.
She was cleared to return to duty.
Evelyn stood in Claire's office holding the letter.
Then laughed.
Claire smiled.
“Good news?”
Evelyn nodded.
“I'm flying again.”
That evening, she called Antonio.
He answered immediately.
“Evelyn.”
She smiled.
“I got my wings back.”
Silence.
Then he laughed.
A warm, relieved laugh.
“I knew you would.”
She shook her head.
“No, you didn't.”
He laughed harder.
“Fair.”
Evelyn looked toward the window.
Then said, “Thank you for listening.”
Antonio's voice softened.
“Always.”
For a moment, neither spoke.
Then he asked:
“Would you have dinner with me when you're next in Rome?”
Evelyn smiled.
“Are you asking me on a date?”
A pause.
“Yes.”
She laughed.
“Then say that.”
Antonio took a breath.
“Evelyn Foster, would you have dinner with me?”
She smiled.
May you like
“Yes.”
And for the first time in months, she looked forward to a flight for a reason that had nothing to do with work.
