A young woman mocked my age at the airport, then spent our entire flight throwing her long hair into my face and food. She thought a 73-year-old woman couldn’t fight back. Good thing I’d made one very unusual purchase at duty-free.

I’m told it’s the only thing she wants from me.”

I zipped it into my purse and went to find my gate.

I was certain of two things. I’d never see that girl again, and the present would reach Emily in one piece.

I was wrong about both.

***My row was near the back. I got there at the same time as the perfume.

Heavy. Sweet. French.

“Okay, guys, finally boarding! Let me show you my seat!”

An older gentleman in my row was heaving his bag toward the overhead