Suddenly, a voice came over the bar speakers.
“Attention passengers for United flight one-five-four to Nice, France, we are now beginning boarding at gate seventeen.”
“That’s our cue,” I said. “Speaking of which, where you sitting?”
Gen reached into her purse and took out her ticket. “Seat B, row twenty-five.”
“Are you serious?” I asked. “Sam, you cheap bastard.”
“Huh? What’s wrong?”
“First of all, you’re in the middle seat. Not sure how much flying you’ve done, but nine hours in flight sandwiched between two strangers isn’t the way to do it.”
She waved her hand through the air. “Oh, I don’t mind one bit. I’m just grateful that Sam offered to take care of it.”
“He’s a billionaire—of course he can take care of it. But Sam’s kind of, well, you know the old saying about how you don’t get rich by spending money; you get rich by saving it? My brother takes that a little too far at times. Here, give me your ticket.”
“What? Why?”
“Because I’m upgrading you to first class. And next to me, if possible.”
I started toward the gate, Gen hurrying after me.
“Seriously, you don’t have to do that.”
“Of course I do,” I replied, flashing her a smile.
“I mean, don’t get me wrong, it’s super nice of you to offer. But at the same time, it feels really… excessive.”
I laughed. “Gen, you’re spending the summer with three billionaires, you’re going to have to get used to excessive, not to mention us taking care of things for you.”
I arrived at the gate, not giving her a chance to say another word. Gen stood next to me with her lips pursed as I switched the ticket, putting the difference on my Black card.
“Done!” I said, handing her over the new ticket.
“Thanks,” she said. “I mean it.”
“Have you ever flown first class before?” I asked.
“Never once.”
“Then this will be a treat. Come on.”
Chapter 3
Gen
Icouldn’t help it. I had a huge grin on my face the entire time as the flight attendant led Sean and me to our seats in the first-class cabin.He’d been able to get me a seat next to him, though there was still a wide aisle between us.
It was total luxury, with huge, spacious seats that stretched out into a reclining position, personal TV’s, and even little shelves to put things so I didn’t need to keep all of my stuff crammed on the tray table.
“Anything I can bring you while we wait to take off?” Maybe it was just my imagination, but it seemed like the staff was more polite in first class.
“Champagne,” I said boldly and I heard Sean chuckle.
“Make that two, please,” Sean piped up.
“Of course.”