Chapter 66

The flight goes from quiet and dull to party in the air after take-off. Unclipping belts and gathering in the centre to drink together, as he told me we would, and the hours pass in a blink. It’s easy to slowly relax and put everything out of my head when plied with champagne and listening to insane chatter around me. They are a very animated and entertaining family, and between them, they have many stories and jokes that pull you in and keep you amused.

Alexi changes gradually as we leave New York. Relaxed, let’s go a little and downs a few drinks with his brother. Side by side in the centre aisle, with me perched on his left on the armrest as I sip my third champagne flute. A definite warm head and surreal feel as booze takes hold. I am trying not to get plastered, though, aware that my emotions are cagey, and I should steer clear of intoxication. I know how that goes when I get drunk.

The further we get from New York, Alexi seems to lose that cold, hard side and warms