Chapter 19 - A New Generation on the LineA week after her return to Virginia, the analog telephone inside Pauline’s kitchen rang out with its familiar, sharp chime.
She walked inside, picked up the receiver, and answered in her usual clipped tone.
“Sanders.”
“Captain Sanders—excuse me, First Officer Jensen calling to report,” a bright, confident voice came through the line.
Pauline paused, a small smile forming on her lips. “Mark? Sounds like you’ve got some news.”
“I just finished my final check ride this morning,” Mark said, the pride practically radiating through the speaker. “I’m officially moving over to the left seat. Captain Jensen, reporting for duty. I wanted you to be the first civilian outside my airline to know.”
“Good work, Jensen,” Pauline said, her voice warm with approval. “Just remember: the left seat comes with a lot more weight, but the view is always better if you keep your head clear.”
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“I won’t forget, Pauline. Every time I pre-flight an aircraft, I check the fuel lines twice and remember what you taught me about instinct.”
“Fly safe, Captain,” Pauline said gently, and clicked the receiver back into place.
