As they finished checking in, Rachel led Sophia to a security checkpoint. "This is where we'll go through security screening," Rachel explained, handing Sophia a bin to place her belongings in.
Sophia watched as Rachel expertly navigated the security process, removing her laptop and liquids from her bag and placing them in separate bins. Sophia followed suit, feeling a bit awkward as she removed her shoes and belt.
After passing through a metal detector, Sophia and Rachel collected their belongings and proceeded to the gate indicated on their boarding passes. As they walked, Sophia couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and nerves.
When they arrived at the gate, Sophia saw a large airplane waiting on the tarmac. Her eyes widened as she realized she was actually going to board that plane.
Rachel smiled reassuringly. "Don't worry, Princess. Flying is safe, and you'll get used to it in no time."
Sophia took a deep breath and followed Rachel onto the plane. As they walked down the aisle, Sophia's eyes adjusted to the dim lighting, and she took in the rows of seats, each with its own small screen and tray table.
Rachel led Sophia to their seats in business class, and Sophia felt a surge of relief as she sank into the comfortable chair.
As the flight attendants began their safety demonstrations, Sophia felt her nerves return. She had never been on a plane before, and the thought of soaring through the air in this metal machine was daunting.
Rachel seemed to sense Sophia's unease and placed a reassuring hand on her arm. "You're going to be fine, Princess. Just relax and enjoy the flight."
As the plane took off, Sophia felt a rush of excitement mixed with fear. She gripped the armrests of her seat tightly, her knuckles white with tension.
But as the plane leveled out and the seatbelt sign went off, Sophia began to relax. She looked around at the other passengers, who were all settled in for the long haul.
Rachel handed Sophia a menu, and Sophia's eyes widened as she scanned the options. "What's good?" Sophia asked Rachel, feeling a bit overwhelmed.
Rachel smiled. "The chicken is always a safe bet. But if you're feeling adventurous, you could try the beef stir-fry."
Sophia opted for the chicken, and as they waited for their meals to arrive, Rachel pulled out a tablet and handed it to Sophia.
"What's this?" Sophia asked, taking the tablet.
"It's loaded with movies, TV shows, and music," Rachel explained. "You can also use it to track our flight progress and stay entertained during the journey."
Sophia's eyes widened as she scanned the options. She had never seen so many movies and TV shows in one place.
As the flight attendants arrived with their meals, Sophia felt a sense of gratitude toward Rachel. She was making this journey so much easier.
As they ate and watched movies, the hours passed quickly. Sophia couldn't believe how much she was enjoying herself.
But as the days passed – yes, days! Sophia couldn't believe how long they were flying – Sophia began to feel a bit restless. She had never been confined to such a small space for so long.
Rachel seemed to sense Sophia's unease and suggested they take a walk up and down the aisle. Sophia agreed, and as they strolled, she felt a bit better.
As they approached the end of their journey, Sophia felt a mix of emotions. She was excited to arrive in New York City and start her new life, but she was also sad to leave behind everything she had ever known.
Rachel seemed to sense Sophia's emotions and placed a reassuring hand on her arm. "You're going to be okay, Princess. You're strong and capable, and you'll make a new life for yourself in New York City."
Sophia smiled, feeling a sense of gratitude toward Rachel. She had been an amazing companion on this journey, and Sophia knew she would never forget her.