Evelyn set the magazine on her lap.
“My mother passed away six years ago,” she said. “I kept some of her old photographs and documents. I don't remember why that particular picture was in my wallet.”
Maya frowned.
“But you recognized Dad.”
Evelyn nodded.
“I recognized his name.”
“Then why were you so mean to us?”
The question came quietly, without accusation in its tone. That somehow made it more difficult to answer.
Evelyn looked at Maya.
“I was frustrated.”
Maya's brow furrowed.
“Because we had seats?”
Evelyn opened her mouth, then closed it.
Danielle watched her carefully.
“Your frustration doesn't explain why you insulted my daughter or refused to move your coat.”
“No,” Evelyn said. “It doesn't.”
The woman looked down at her hands.
“I shouldn't have behaved that way.”
Maya stared at her, surprised.
Danielle was equally surprised, though she did not immediately accept the apology.
Evelyn continued.
“I've had a difficult few months. My company is restructuring, my mother’s estate is still being settled, and I've been traveling constantly. I was tired, and I wanted some space.”
Danielle listened.
“That's not an excuse,” Evelyn added quickly. “I know that.”
“No,” Danielle said. “It isn't.”
Evelyn nodded.
“I understand.”
The conversation might have ended there, but Maya was still thinking about the photograph.
“Can I ask something?”
Evelyn looked at her.
“What?”
“Did my dad save your mom's convoy?”
Evelyn's expression changed.
She looked toward the window, where clouds stretched beneath the aircraft in a vast white field.
“Your father was part of the team that helped my mother during an emergency operation,” she said slowly. “I wasn't there. I only know what she told me.”
Maya leaned forward.
“What happened?”
Evelyn took a breath.
“It was a winter operation in the mountains. A supply convoy was carrying medical equipment and emergency provisions to a remote station. A storm closed the main road, and the vehicles became stranded.”
Danielle listened closely.
Evelyn continued.
“My mother was responsible for coordinating the operation. She had several teams under her command, including your father’s unit. The weather worsened, communications became unreliable, and there was a serious risk that the stranded personnel would run out of fuel and medical supplies.”
Maya's eyes widened.
“Dad never told me all that.”
“Perhaps he didn't want to frighten you.”
“He tells me everything.”
Danielle smiled faintly.
“Not everything, sweetheart.”
Evelyn looked at Danielle.
“Your husband was one of the people who volunteered to lead a recovery team. He helped get the stranded personnel out before the second storm hit.”
Maya's face brightened with pride.
“That's my dad.”
“Yes,” Evelyn said softly. “It is.”