As the plane touched down, a heavy silence settled inside the cabin, thick and unbroken. The only sound was the hum of the aircraft, a steady, droning vibration beneath their feet. Then the pilot's voice crackled over the intercom, smooth and professional:
"Ladies and gentlemen, we have safely landed. It was a pleasure having you onboard. We hope you had a comfortable flight. Please remain seated until the aircraft comes to a complete stop. Thank you, and take care."
For a moment, no one moved. The weight of the journey seemed to press against the air itself, hanging there like an invisible force. Then, finally, Susan Beaumont stood up, her movements fluid, controlled, as though she had been waiting for precisely this moment to reclaim her space. She straightened her outfit with a composed air, smoothing down the fabric with the practiced efficiency of someone accustomed to high standards.
