For Grandma’s 80th birthday, I surprised her with a first-class ticket to California.
She hadn’t flown in almost three decades, so I wanted the trip to be as easy and comfortable as possible.
But just before boarding, she quietly approached the gate counter and asked to change seats.
From first class.
To economy.
“Grandma, that ticket cost me a fortune.”
“I know, sweetheart.”
“Then why would you give it up?”
She gently squeezed my hand.
“I’d rather sit in the back.”
That was the only explanation she gave me.
We ended up sitting far apart.
About halfway through the flight, I went back to check on her.
My grandmother gave up the first-class seat I bought for her and moved to economy instead. I was annoyed—until a pilot walked through the cabin looking specifically for her.
