Inside the hangar, Captain Heath coordinated with the ground crew as they prepared for the inaugural flight of Michael's Boeing 787 Dreamliner. The captain, with a clipboard in hand, meticulously checked off each item on the pre-flight list. Nearby, technicians conducted final inspections on the aircraft's engines and avionics, ensuring everything was in optimal condition.
"Alright, Mr. Reyes," Heath called over, waving him closer. "We've filed the flight plan with the local aviation authority. Our route to Cebu is logged, and we expect clear skies most of the way. The departure time is scheduled, and we should be in the air within the next couple of hours."
"What about customs and immigration?" he asked, remembering the captain's earlier mention of paperwork.
"Everything is being handled as we speak," Captain Heath reassured him. "Our crew is finalizing the last of the documentation. All necessary clearances are being processed."
***
Three hours later.
As the final checks were conducted, Michael and Myra were invited to board the aircraft.
They were seated at the front of the cabin, in plush, adjustable seats that offered both comfort and a view of the cockpit's advanced controls through the open cockpit door. The cabin's atmosphere was calm, filled with a subtle, soothing lighting scheme that transitioned smoothly from one shade to another, complementing the luxurious interior.
The cabin of the Dreamliner was outfitted with state-of-the-art technology. Each seat was equipped with a personal touchscreen loaded with entertainment options, communication tools, and flight information. The high-speed internet connection ensured that both Michael and Myra could stay connected, whether for leisure or business purposes, during the flight.
As they settled in, a flight attendant offered them champagne and a light pre-takeoff meal, curated from a selection of gourmet dishes prepared by the onboard chef.
Outside, the last of the luggage was being securely loaded, and the ground crew performed their final exterior checks on the aircraft. Captain Heath, now in the cockpit, was going through the last series of system checks with his co-pilot. They communicated with the control tower, confirming weather conditions and receiving the final go-ahead for takeoff.
Once all was ready, Captain Heath addressed Michael and Myra over the aircraft's intercom. "Ladies and gentlemen, we are about to begin our taxi to the runway. Please fasten your seat belts and ensure all carry-on luggage is securely stowed. We anticipate a smooth flight to Cebu, and we thank you for choosing to fly with us today."
The engines hummed to life, their low, powerful drone filling the cabin as the aircraft began its slow journey from the hangar to the runway. The anticipation in the cabin built as the Dreamliner aligned with the runway, awaiting clearance for takeoff.
"Of course," Michael agreed with a warm smile. He leaned in as the fan positioned his phone to capture the moment. With a quick click, the selfie was taken.
"Thank you so much, Mr. Reyes. This really made my day!" the fan exclaimed, beaming with joy.
"You're welcome! Keep supporting green energy," Michael encouraged him as they parted ways.
As the fan walked away, Michael turned to Myra, who had watched the exchange with a fond smile.
"You never know where you'll find supporters," he remarked lightly.
After that brief interaction, Michael received a phone call from Juliet.
"I have to answer this," Michael excused himself for a while before accepting the call. Once he is at a
the distance where Myra couldn't hear the conversation, he answered, "Juliet, what's up?"
"Mr. Reyes, where are you?" Juliet asked.
"I'm in Cebu," Michael replied casually.
"Cebu? What are you doing there without your security? And you didn't inform me," Juliet's voice rose slightly with worry.
"It was a sudden decision, just needed a quick getaway. But why did you call? Is something wrong?" Michael's tone shifted to concern.
"There's someone looking for you, and it seems urgent. They've been trying to reach you this past hour. You need to get back as soon as possible," Juliet explained.