flight intermission
inhale, exhale on repeat“We have two kids.”
The elderly woman seated next to Shuhua patted her hand, “Two?” Her voice wobbled and cracked at the end. “That’s nice.”
“They drool a lot.”
“Mine did too when they were little.” The laughter was rich, bouncing off the walls of business class. “How old are your children, dear?”
“Five.” Shuhua proudly said, “They’re potty trained!”
“Aww, that’s good dear.”
The speakers crackled to life overhead. “We will begin our descent soon. Please return to your seats…”
“I better get back aunty. When you come back, come visit us. My jagiya makes the best seaweed soup.”
The old woman chuckled. “Alright dear. Now hurry back. Your wife and kids are probably worried.”
With one last wave Shuhua scurried back to first class.
“Where have you been?” Yuqi hissed as she leaned over the aisle. “Manager unnie has been looking for you.”
Shuhua flopped into her seat. “Busy.”
“Shu?”
Batting her eyelashes, Shuhua turned to her seatmate, “Yes, jagiya?”
“Buckle up.”
“Okay!” After clipping the seatbelt in place, Shuhua snuck Soojin’s hand. “Let me hold this for you," she said with a cheeky smile. “How are the kids?” Under the seat she heard soft whimpers.
“They missed you.” With her free hand Soojin scrolled through her phone.
“And my jagiya?”
Soojin snorted. “No.” Despite her words she leaned in closer. “What should we eat?” On her screen
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