The flight attendants moved a Black woman from first class to the last row—then fell silent as she opened her wallet and said, “I am Dr. Simone Carter, FAA administrator.” But her title wasn’t what terrified the airline CEO most. It was the interview file she’d been called in to about thirty seconds earlier.

The treatment of passengers could be studied after landing.

Potential security issues might prevent it.

She rummaged through her handbag and pulled out a black leather identification wallet.

I opened it.

I held it towards him.

“My name is Dr. Simone Carter.”

Derek lowered his eyes.

Her face has changed.

“I am the administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration.”

He stopped breathing.

Loretta murmured, “Well, Lord.”

Mateo’s mouth opened.

Simone continued calmly.

“The man on the phone is Transport Secretary Edward Harlan, and we are discussing a possible maintenance compliance issue involving this carrier.”

Derek looked at the credentials.

Then at Simone’s.

Then towards the front of the plane.

“I—I didn’t know.”

“I am aware.”

“Dr. Carter, we can get you back to first class immediately.”

« No. »

He blinked.

« No? »

“My seat is no longer the urgent problem.”

His voice remained flat.

“Please tell the captain that the FAA administrator needs to speak with him before takeoff.”