Page 31 of Knot a Good Idea

Then, he’s at the other side of the helicopter, sitting in the pilot seat and handing me a headset.

Once we’rein the air, I realize Iamimpressed.

The sun barely peeks out from the horizon, and the world is bathed in sunset.

My mom’s car stays parked until we’re out of sight, and I feel a burst of affection for the woman who has constantly supported me even when I’ve been a shitty daughter.

Isleton disappears below us, and I let out a sigh as I take in the view.

“It’s stunning, isn’t it?” Donovan’s voice fills the headset as I glance at him. He works the complicated controls expertly, a serene expression falling over his face.

When he flies, he looks younger, unburdened by work and life.

It’s charming.

“It is,” I agree

“We should be there in about forty minutes,” he says. “Enjoy the view while you can.”

“I will.”

I can’t help but smile.

What is my life right now? A week ago, I was miserable and worried about firing my friends.

And months ago…

I ball my hand into a fist and steady my breathing.

Even though the helicopter is luxurious, it’s still small.

Confined.

Oh, no.

My nails dig into the meat of my palm as my heart beats wildly in my chest.

Not now. Please, not now…

I focus on Donovan’s scent, willing my breathing to slow as I inhale his aroma.

I’m not back there. I’ll never go back there again.

I am here in the present.

“Is everything alright?” Donovan’s voice sounds through the headset.

“Of course,” I say evenly.

“Flying can be frightening,” he says. “The first time I did it, I was scared out of my mind.”

I nod. “Yeah.”

But that’s not the reason I’m terrified.

It’s not about being in the air, it’s about being confined in a small space and unable to open the door.

Even if the person I’m with is nothing like the person that held me captive.

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