Tyler had been working as a commercial pilot for almost nine years. To him, flying was his profession, but for Mason, our seven-year-old son, his father was practically a hero.
Every time Tyler prepared to go to the airport, Mason followed him to the door with the same question:
“Dad, are you going to fly a big plane today?”
Tyler was always smiling.
I hope so, champion.
Mason dreamed of the day he could travel on a plane piloted by his father.
That’s why, when Tyler told me that he would have a short flight to Chicago on a Saturday and that he would be back before dinner, I came up with an idea.
We'd buy two tickets.
Mason and I would get on the plane without Tyler knowing and, after landing, we would reveal the surprise.
It was a simple plan.
At least, I thought so.
For weeks I had to pretend I didn't know anything.
Mason, on the other hand, almost ruins the secret several times.
“Mom, have you already bought the tickets for Dad’s plane?
“Shhh!
But no one is listening to us.
Your father could be behind the door.
Mason covered his mouth so he wouldn't laugh.
It finally came on Saturday.
Mason was wearing his little headphones, a bag of gummies and a drawing he had made especially for Tyler.
At the top I had written in huge letters:
“THE BEST PILOT IN THE WORLD.”
We arrived at the airport long before departure time.
And then what I feared most happened.
Tyler showed up at the terminal.
It was a few meters from us.
I grabbed Mason by the hand and quickly took him to a tent.
“Look at those magnets,” I said, trying to look natural.
“Mom, those magnets are horrible.
“Well, pretend you like them.
Mason started laughing.
We wait until Tyler disappeared.
Then we approached.
Our seats were near the rear of the plane.
Mason was very excited.
Do you think Dad is going to be surprised?
“A lot.
What if he recognizes my voice?
“Then you’ll have to keep quiet.
“Throughout the flight?”
“Exactly.
Mason's smile disappeared.
That's gonna be hard.
A few minutes later, the doors closed.
The cabin was quiet.
Then the speakers emitted a small crackle.
Tyler's voice filled the plane.
Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. Welcome to board...
Mason squeezed my hand.
His eyes were shining.
I pulled out the phone to record it.
