52. WELCOME ABOARD
As Haroon stepped onto the jet, the quiet hum of the engines filled the sleek cabin. He took a deep breath, trying to shake off the day's stress. Sofia followed closely behind, her eyes wide with a mix of awe and nerves. The plush interior of the jet was a stark contrast to her uncertain circumstances, making her feel both out of place and strangely welcomed.
Taliya, standing by the entrance with a tablet in hand, looked up and met Haroon's gaze. A playful smirk tugged at her lips, and the staff members nearby exchanged amused glances. Haroon noticed the barely concealed teasing in their eyes and grunted under his breath, already bracing himself for their inevitable ribbing.
"Well, well," Taliya began, her tone light and teasing. "Look who decided to bring company."
One of the flight attendants couldn't suppress a chuckle, while another raised an eyebrow in mock curiosity. Haroon shot them a look that said he wasn't in the mood, but it only seemed to amuse them more.
"I'm going to sleep," Haroon announced, his voice gruff. He rubbed the back of his neck, clearly uncomfortable with the attention. "I don't want to be disturbed. Not for anything."
There was a chorus of snickers from the staff, and Taliya couldn't help but shake her head gently at Haroon's typical retreat. She knew him well enough to understand that he was hiding behind his gruff demeanor, uncomfortable with the unfamiliar situation.
"Of course, Haroon," Taliya said, her voice soothing and slightly amused. "We'll make sure not to bother you."
Haroon shot her a half-hearted glare before making his way to the private sleeping quarters at the back of the jet. As he passed by Sofia, he paused for a brief moment, his eyes softening slightly. "Make yourself comfortable," he murmured, almost as an afterthought, before disappearing behind the door.
Once Haroon was out of sight, the atmosphere in the cabin relaxed. The staff, clearly familiar with their boss's habits, exchanged knowing looks. Taliya turned her attention to Sofia, who stood a bit awkwardly in the center of the aisle, unsure of what to do next.
"Welcome aboard," Taliya greeted warmly, extending a hand. "As you already know. I'm Taliya, the one who keeps things running smoothly around here. And you must be...?"
"Sofia," she replied, shaking Taliya's hand with a polite smile. She took a deep breath, deciding to share only the basics. "I guess you could say I'm an influencer. I share lifestyle and fashion content online. Its lovely to meet you again."
Taliya nodded, her eyes sparkling with curiosity but respect. "Likewise! Ah, an influencer! That explains the air of mystery," she said with a friendly chuckle. "We get all sorts on these flights, but not often someone with such a unique background."
Sofia relaxed a bit, appreciating Taliya's welcoming demeanor. "It's not as glamorous as it sounds," she said modestly, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "It's a lot of work behind the scenes, and there's always this pressure to keep up appearances."
One of the flight attendants, Sara chimed in, smiling warmly. "That sounds challenging. It must take a lot of effort to stay on top of trends and engage with your audience."
Sofia nodded. "It does, but it's also rewarding. I get to connect with people and share my passion for fashion and positivity. I just didn't expect to be... here," she gestured around the luxurious cabin, "on a private jet with strangers."
Taliya chuckled softly, her eyes kind. "Life has a funny way of throwing surprises at us. But don't worry, you're in good hands. Just relax and enjoy the flight. If you need anything, just let us know."
Sofia offered a grateful smile, feeling a bit more at ease. The staff's friendly and professional demeanor made her feel less like an outsider. As she settled into one of the plush seats, she couldn't help but glance toward the door where Haroon had disappeared. The man was an enigma, rough around the edges but with a surprising softness that peeked through occasionally. She wondered what had prompted him to allow her on this journey, despite his apparent reluctance.
As the jet prepared for takeoff, Sofia leaned back in her seat, feeling the gentle vibrations of the engines. The initial awkwardness had begun to fade, replaced by a curious anticipation. Whatever lay ahead, she knew she was in for an unexpected adventure. And as she glanced out the window at the darkening sky, she couldn't help but feel a flicker of excitement mingled with uncertainty, eager to see what the next fifteen days would bring.
Where Sofia was trying to settle in, Haroon was cursing himself on why he became such a softy for him.
"Why did I do that?" He grumbled throwing a pillow in the air and ruffled his hairs.
"I am sure about my brain has fallen before I came here." He grumbled with a sour look on his face thinking why he was helping her out.
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