Chapter 27. Why a Detour to Phoenix?

“Why are we going to Phoenix?” Eva asked Alexander sitting beside her with his eyes closed, ready to catch up on some sleep.

“There’s a 52-minute layover time at Phoenix.” Eva waited for him to say more but he didn’t and she picked up a magazine to read. How could he sleep when she was bursting with excitement? “Buckle your seat belt for takeoff!”

As the aircraft took its position on the runway, Eva struggled with her seatbelt since this was her first time on a flight. Alexander leaned forward and buckled it instead for her, his arm brushing against her curves in the process. Eva’s cheeks colored, and she learned the technique so that she wouldn’t need his help the next time. The aircraft surged ahead and took off at last but apart from her ears, nothing seemed much affected. Alexander opened his eyes to give her a once-over when they were airborne.

“All fine so far?” he asked with a smile, seeing her pull her ears.

“Yes, but maybe I’ve become deaf,” she chuc