Chapter 96 The Flight

September 10th, 2023, marked another day in the life of Michael Reyes, now in his third year, first semester, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. Only four semesters stood between him and his diploma. Despite the heavyweight of his duties at SolaraTech, where his team strove under his guidance to dominate the market, Michael managed to not only attend to his academic obligations but also excel in them, securing awards and certificates that served as testaments to his dedication to finishing his studies, which is one of the dreams of his mother.

Michael's days were meticulously partitioned between academia and leadership. Mornings found him immersed in the world of engineering at the university, absorbing knowledge and participating actively in class discussions. His afternoons and evenings were spent at the PSE tower, the headquarters of SolaraTech, where he would delve into the complexities of managing a burgeoning enterprise in the competitive arena of renewable energy. However, today's afternoon is going to be different. While he was listening to the professor that is teaching them about heat transfer, his cell phone buzzed in his pocket.

Michael discreetly pulled it out, glancing at the screen to find a text message from Bridget. [You need to be at the airport before 7 o'clock this evening,] it read.

Today was the day when he would fly out of the country, and head to Germany, Bridget's home country, and meet key people in the renewable energy sector to promote his solar panel technology. The opportunity was too crucial to pass up, offering potential breakthroughs for SolaraTech on an international scale.

Michael's class was scheduled to end at three o'clock, but leaving right after would mean getting caught in the city's notorious rush hour. They had discussed this possibility, but Bridget had a solution in mind to ensure he wouldn't be late for their flight

[Leave class early today. I've arranged a helicopter to pick you up at four-thirty. But you must be at this building's rooftop. We can't afford any delays,] her message continued.

Reading that, made Michael's heart flutter slightly. Imagine getting picked up by a helicopter, which is a luxury for even rich people. However, for Bridget and SolaraTech, it seemed no expense was spared when it came to ensuring the success of their mission.

"So...are you excited for your first international trip?" Bridget asked. "I am," Michael said. "You said you learned German pretty fast, let's test that shall we?" Bridget chuckled.

"Hmm...I'll just surprise you once we are in the meeting with the officials," Michael said, rejecting her suggestion. "How about we wait for the plane? I heard you booked the first class." "Yeah, for convenience."

***

Three hours later.

Boarding the plane, Michael and Bridget were greeted by the flight attendants with a warmth reserved for the first-class cabin's guests. They were shown to their seats, 7A and 7B, luxurious and spacious, with ample legroom and privacy partitions. As Michael settled into his seat, adjusting the plush headrest and exploring the suite's features.

Bridget, settling into her seat, glanced over at Michael. "Make sure to get some rest during the flight. We have a busy schedule once we land, and I want you at your best."

Michael nodded, appreciating her concern. "I will, thanks. And Bridget? Thanks for everything—arranging this trip, the helicopter, the first-class seats. It means a lot."

Bridget waved him off with a soft smile. "It's nothing, Michael. Just for you."