“There is no chance he knows,” I reassured him, helping him slide his little backpack beneath the seat ahead.
“Can I tell that nice flight attendant walking by?” he asked, pointing at a woman hanging jackets near the front.
“Absolutely not,” I laughed softly. “If you tell her, the whole surprise will be ruined before we even take off.”
“What if I just whisper it to one person?” he pleaded playfully, flashing a wide gap toothed smile.
“Toby, zip your lips,” I said, mimicking the motion across my own mouth.
He giggled and locked both hands over his lips, nodding enthusiastically to show he understood the mission rules.
A few minutes later, the main cabin door closed with a heavy thud. The remaining passengers settled into their rows, storing overhead bags as the flight crew completed their final safety checks.
Then, without warning, the overhead speakers crackled with static. An incredibly familiar deep voice echoed throughout the cabin.
