As the plane moved lower, Clara’s nervousness grew. Her gaze was fixed on Atlas, and she shifted in her seat, clearly on edge. She spoke louder now, as though trying to justify her anxiety to herself. “I’m terrified of dogs. Why should I have to endure this?” she muttered, her frustration palpable.
Liam, feeling the tension build around him, did not react, not wanting to fuel the fire. He focused on Atlas, scratching the top of his head. He remained perfectly still. The dog shifted slightly, sensing his owner’s unease, but didn’t move further. The standoff continued as Clara’s complaints grew louder, now directed at the crew and other passengers.