Page 6 of Strings

“You didn’t even flinch during take-off. I would never have guessed this is your first flight. Most people grab ahold of something tightly until their knuckles turn white.”

“There’s not a lot that scares me.”

“I believe you. I’m impressed. And, as you can see, thereareperks to having conversations. I would never have known about your flying experience if we weren’t talking. So, what do you think?”

I shrug. “I think talking is overrated.”

He smirks. “I meant, what do you think of the view?”

“They’re clouds. Big deal.”

He laughs. “You’re not easily impressed, are you?”

He must be disappointed I’m not eating up his “I’m a gentleman” shit with a spoon. I bet this game usually works with the ladies. I’m not falling for his nice guy act, but I’ll play along for fun. “I bet you give up your seat for all your fake girlfriends.”

“You’re my first.”

“Girlfriend?” Heisa holy roller.

“Fake girlfriend. Geez, Talia. Give me a little credit.”

“Stop that.”

“Stop what?”

“Calling me Talia.”

“You hate it that much?”

I have to think about it for a second. Do I hate it? I guess it sounds more impressive than Nat. I turn and face the window, leaning my head against the plastic that frames it. I really hadn’t had time to think all of this through. I thought I’d have more time to practice using my name and create my story before talking to anyone.

I scammed my way into the interview and then used the gifts God gave me to convince the CEO to give me a shot. My stomach turns and I have to remind myself that I did what I had to do to change my life. The money is good. It’s not a fortune, but it’s more money than I ever made back home tending bar and booking gigs for local bands.

The fact is, I don’t know anything about how to do this job, or be this person. I’m going to have to cram hard when I get to L.A. I have two days to learn how to fake it ‘til I make it. It shouldn’t be hard. I’ve faked everything else through my life.

“Penny for your thoughts?” he asks.

“A penny? That’s all you think they’re worth, huh?”

His head turns slightly as if he’s trying to figure me out. “I’m sure your thoughts are worth millions.”

“If you want to pay me a million I might be willing to tell you.”

“Will you take an IOU? Looks like I owe you for a lot of things this flight.”

I smile but my eyes feel so heavy. “I know you like to chat and all, but I really want to close my eyes for a few minutes. Okay?”

“Of course. My apologies.”

I don’t mean to offend him so I touch his arm lightly. “It’s cool. I just didn’t get a lot of sleep and I’m beat.”

“I understand. No worries. Get some rest. You’ve done more than enough for me today.”

I lean my head against the plastic near the window. This is not how I pictured this day. Oh well. The worst is probably over. It’s got to be clear skies from here on out.

The plane jolts and I’m shaken awake. My head is on Sebastian’s shoulder and I’m pretty sure I was drooling.

“What was that?” I ask.