The turbulence calmed as the plane reached cruising altitude, but Clara’s irritation remained palpable. She couldn’t seem to let go of her fear and hostility. She leaned over the armrest and looked directly behind at Liam. “If I get rabies from this, it’ll be on you,” she said, her words cold and biting.
Liam’s face flushed with frustration, but he kept his voice steady. He said, moving slightly forward toward Clara. “My dog is a service animal. He’s clean and tested for illnesses of all kinds.” He spoke calmly, but he couldn’t hide the irritation creeping into his tone. The entire row of passengers fell silent, their attention turning to the escalating confrontation.