Flight Attendant Sees Late Husband On Plane – Then She Notices A Startling Detail
Grief is a difficult emotion. There are supposedly five stages, but each stage appears differently for each person. There is no set period of time for grieving, and there is no right way to do it (although, as we all know, there are many wrong ways). You typically don’t question someone’s death when they pass away in your life. Lena Garcia, however, experienced a fateful day on an airplane that fundamentally altered her perceptions of reality, family, and what it means to truly miss someone.
Awake
Lena Garcia got up two hours before her alarm went off on the morning she was scheduled to return to work. She awoke with her eyes wide open and her heart thumping as if someone had screamed in her ear. She couldn’t possibly fall back asleep, so she brewed some coffee and sat in her armchair to enjoy the sunrise outside her bay window.
Awake
On the horizon, the sun appeared red. Take note, sailors, Lena thought. She almost grinned at that.
Getting Up
Lena found it increasingly difficult to muster the energy to get out of bed each morning. The situation was quite the opposite of what she had anticipated. Ever since that unfortunate incident, it felt as if a relentless vortex was pulling her deeper and deeper into its grasp. Every basic task, from swinging her legs out of bed to brushing her teeth, felt like an excessive burden. She felt utterly lost and unsure of what steps to take next, especially considering the mounting bills that needed her attention.
Getting Up
The reality of responsibilities weighed heavily on her mind, especially living in California where the cost of living wasn’t forgiving. Time seemed to stand still as she contemplated her options, searching for a glimmer of hope amid the uncertainty that surrounded her.
Radio Off
While brushing her teeth, Lena deliberately avoided looking at the green toothbrush that was still sitting in the sink’s holder, untouched. She then put on her dry-cleaned flight attendant uniform, which she had just recently purchased. Lena left the house with her sensible shoes on and a thermos of coffee in her hand.
Radio Off
Her neck became immediately damp under her scratchy white collar as a result of the air’s musky odor. With the radio off, she sped toward the airport. The emptiness had a beat of its own.
The Drive
Lena found solace in her daily commute, grateful for the picturesque journey to her job. The cobblestoned streets, adorned with bridges spanning glistening oceans, provided a captivating scene at dawn. Driving under the night sky, the black expanse of the ocean conjured a sense of traversing through space and time.
The Drive
California, she mused, held the title of one of the most beautiful states. Lena cherished these fleeting moments, where the enchantment of her surroundings served as a gentle reminder of life’s inherent beauty and wonders.
Thinking
Lena pondered her decision while driving to the airport, contemplating the allure of declining and extending her break by a few extra weeks. Those around her had shown remarkable understanding. The temptation to flee was almost overwhelming, to the point where she almost entertained the idea of reversing her vehicle.
Thinking
However, deep down, she knew that if she succumbed to this desire, she would never be able to return to work. In fact, once she locked her doors behind her, the possibility of leaving the house again seemed increasingly distant, like a fading memory.
Back At Work
After passing security, she entered the employee lounge for her airline a short while later. Everyone paused what they were doing and turned to look at her, as she had anticipated. After a brief moment of awkwardly prolonged staring, everyone suddenly appeared to stand up.
Back At Work
“How are you, Lena? Her manager, Cassandra, said. Everything Cassandra said sounded scripted, and she even had a prepared sympathetic expression with pursed lips: “So happy to have you back.”
Cassandra & Lena
It was interesting to see how Lena and Cassandra interacted. Lena had always received courteous treatment from Cassandra, but she seemed to dislike something about her. They had taken countless flights together, and in terms of efficiency, they made a good team. Lena might have found Cassandra’s personality abrasive.
Cassandra & Lena
Lena was overcome with rage as she turned to face the woman. Though she questioned whether Cassandra had seen the feeling flare in her eyes, she quickly subdued it.
I’m Fine
Lena carefully placed her thermos on the table, feeling a mix of emotions. “I’m fine,” she reassured herself, though gratitude filled her heart. She mustered the strength to greet each of her coworkers, some understanding, others slightly awkward. It had only been a month, a mere 30 days, or 720 hours, or 43,200 seconds since it happened.
I’m Fine
The weight of the situation had already worn Lena out, evident in the exhaustion as she sank into a chair she had managed to find in the staff area. Each passing moment felt like an eternity.
Tired
Lena’s coworkers generally left her alone. They sat close by, but they took care not to bring up Lena in their conversations, as if she were Patient Zero for grief and it spread quickly. Lena liked it better that way. Her eyes blurred and her throat tightened just from being at work, and the idea of small talk made her want to scream.
Tired
“Perhaps I made a mistake,” she reasoned. Every day felt like a struggle, a relentless battle against her emotions. But amidst the pain, she found solace in the quiet moments, in the solitude that shielded her from the overwhelming chaos of the world.
A Mistake?
Lena was plagued with doubt about reentering the workforce once again. She contemplated giving up and seeking a work-from-home job to live a hermit’s life. Yet, her situation was peculiar. The house reminded her of her late husband, while her job served as a constant reminder that life continued without him.
A Mistake?
Lena felt a deep sense of alienation and was uncertain about her next steps. She pondered over a myriad of possibilities, feeling lost and unsure of what to do in this bewildering phase of her life.
Auto-Pilot
It was finally time to board the aircraft, the moment Lena had been dreading. She desperately wanted to stand up and refuse to report to work. Deep down, she knew that Cassandra was far from fine, and the situation was anything but fine. As she reluctantly stepped onto the plane, a throbbing headache pulsed behind her eyes, a physical manifestation of her anxiety.
Auto-Pilot
However, once the boarding process began, Lena put on a brave face and slipped into her flight attendant routine, operating on autopilot to fulfill her duties in the confined space of the cabin.
Going Through The Motions
Fortunately, Lena’s extensive experience as a flight attendant enabled her to instinctively anticipate and handle the situation at hand. She efficiently made necessary preparations, meticulously inspected the aisles, and skillfully stowed luggage in the overhead bins. Additionally, she attended to two passengers who required wheelchair assistance, as well as another passenger who needed a special arrangement for their child with special needs.
Going Through The Motions
Despite the crowded flight, Lena’s mind was occupied with familiar routines, providing a temporary distraction from the whirlwind of memories and the encroaching darkness of her thoughts.
Boarding
Thankfully, Lena wasn’t tasked with the responsibility of welcoming the passengers. She had the freedom to explore the plane’s computer without making eye contact with anyone. Cassandra had ensured that Lena had a lot of flexibility on her first day, and Lena appreciated the gesture, despite her somewhat officious demeanor.
Boarding
The process of boarding the passengers took an entire hour, during which time Lena only provided assistance where it was absolutely necessary. With each passing moment, Lena grew more comfortable in her role and looked forward to future opportunities to contribute to the team.
Amelia
Of course, there were some complaints from fellow passengers, as is common during any flight. Despite only traveling a mere three hours away, their behavior gave the impression that they were embarking on a forty-day, forty-night journey. At that moment, Lena heard a familiar voice exclaim, “Yep, they’ve always been like this.”
Amelia
Lena turned around to find Amelia, one of her closest friends and coworkers, standing there with a grin on her face. Amelia shared that she had even changed shifts just to be on the same flight as Lena, and they embraced each other warmly, eagerly anticipating the adventure ahead.
For The First Time
For Lena, things were gradually improving. Despite Amelia’s presence, she still felt vulnerable, worn down, and exposed. In the aftermath of what had transpired, Amelia became Lena’s unwavering source of support, standing steadfastly by her side day and night, offering solace when no one else could. Speaking to Cassandra with her back turned, Lena couldn’t help but admire her friend’s blonde hairstyle.
For The First Time
As Lena finally turned to face Amelia, she playfully made a funny face, resulting in the sound of her own laughter, a rarity after such a prolonged period of solemnity.
Amelia & Lena
In comparison to her relationship with Amelia, Lena had a profoundly distinct connection with Cassandra. While Amelia was one of her closest friends, someone with whom she shared countless experiences, Cassandra offered a different kind of companionship. With Amelia by her side, Lena felt a sense of security that allowed her to face the workday with confidence.
Amelia & Lena
As she relaxed in her chair and closed her eyes, Lena found solace in the assurance that she had control over her circumstances. Now, all that remained was to patiently await the commencement of takeoff, embracing the journey that lay ahead.
Takeoff
Over the loudspeaker, the velvety voice of pilot Ralph Stanwick warmly greeted the passengers, “Good morning, ladies and gentlemen.” “We have a three-hour flight ahead, to whisk you away to the picturesque Bay.” “Now, just lean back, relax, and savor the journey,” the driver advised as Lena, Cassandra, and Amelia diligently fastened their seatbelts.
Takeoff
“Conditions may be a bit cloudy and humid, but fear not, for the skies will clear as we head South.” And so, they embarked on a delightful adventure, brimming with anticipation and excitement in the friendly skies above.
Previous Flights
Why did Lena feel this way? She had taken numerous flights and encountered various experiences. Although turbulence had been a recurring occurrence in the past, she always managed to stay composed, even in the presence of angry passengers. It was a quality she deeply cherished. However, as a person, she now felt completely shattered, and her demeanor had noticeably changed.
Previous Flights
It seemed like a part of her had been lost, leaving her feeling disconnected and unsettled. The pieces of her life no longer fit together seamlessly, and she yearned to regain the sense of wholeness she once had.
Why Lena Took The Job
Lena had an undeniable passion for exploring new places, which led her to embark on a journey as a flight attendant. Although she occasionally longed for the comforts of home, the thrill of flying and the opportunity for quick trips, both near and far, outweighed any feelings of homesickness. Moreover, she genuinely enjoyed catering to the needs of passengers.
Why Lena Took The Job
As the plane began to ascend, Lena reminded herself to stay focused and composed. She found solace in the enticing benefits of her job – the rewarding pay, the fulfilling nature of her work, and the incredible travel opportunities. “Keep it together, Len,” she whispered with determination.
Taking Her Away
She drew her conclusion that there would be an inevitable negative outcome, leaving you with an unwelcome and certain thought – the realization that being away from home in this way was unbearable. Every possession he owned remained there, held on to tightly, from his toothbrush to the tool chest in the garage, even including a worn-out pair of Christmas socks.
Taking Her Away
Every departure for Lena felt like a heartbreak, as if the plane was taking her away from the last remnants of memories tied to him, leaving her yearning for what was left behind.
Good to Fly
Amelia greeted Lena with a casual “Hey,” lightly touching her knee. Concern etched Cassandra’s face as she observed Lena, as if searching for any troubling signs. Lena reassured them both with a nod, stealing glances at her fellow attendees. “I’m good, ready for takeoff,” she affirmed, reclining comfortably. However, Cassandra seemed less convinced, uncertain about something lingering amidst the air.
Good To Fly
Their collective expressions painted a complex narrative of emotions, hints of tension and doubt dancing beneath the surface. The atmosphere held a palpable anticipation, silently begging for resolution. Time would reveal whether their anxieties would subside or intensify as the story continued to unfold.
What Can She Do
What else could Cassandra possibly do? She had no choice but to bottle up her disapproving remarks and reservations, as they were already out in the open. Lena’s coworker’s doubts had caused her to feel a wave of resentment. But Lena wasn’t going to let that bring her down.
What Can She Do
“I’m ready to soar,” Lena thought, reminding herself of all the times she had already flown higher than Cassandra. As she stood strong with a touch of defiance, Lena allowed herself to feel a flicker of much-needed confidence in the face of uncertainty.
New Resolve
Lena decided to toughen up, determined not to let Cassandra be right. She knew she excelled at her job and was determined to make it through this flight, even if it meant shedding tears every night back home. With newfound resilience, Lena confidently served drinks to the passengers in the rear of the plane, inspired by her unwavering determination.
New Resolve
She refused to let anything or anyone hold her back as she embarked on this journey towards success.
Staring Back At Her
“And, sir, what beverages can I get for you?” Lena asked, her voice filled with practiced cheerfulness, as she glanced down at her notepad. Another guest, another demand. “Please have a coffee,” the man replied without hesitation. As Lena moved on to attend to the next person, a flicker of nostalgia washed over her. She turned to face the man, her fleeting smile revealing a bittersweet moment frozen in time.
Staring Back At Her
Her dead husband’s face stared back at her, a vivid memory that halted her steps and stole the breath from her lungs. In that moment, the bustling venue faded into the background, leaving only the ghosts of the past lingering in the air, whispering their secrets.
Out Of Body
The phrase “out of body experience” had been used before, but Lena had no idea what it meant. When she first felt her mind completely separate from her body, she thought it was all some sort of tarot card hooey. As she watched her face fixate on the passenger in his seat, she had a peculiar sensation that she was floating above herself, observing the traveler who eerily resembled Matt.
Out Of Body
Was this a dream? Since Matt’s passing, Lena had been having a plethora of vivid dreams that seemed all too real. Compelled by curiosity, she continued to gaze intently at the unidentified passenger, while simultaneously gathering her internal strength for whatever lay ahead.
Down To The Last Detail
To last detail, it was unmistakably Matt’s face. The deep brown eyes that always held a flicker of mischief, the gentle lines etched on his forehead from a life filled with both laughter and worry, and even the slightly off-center bottom teeth that brought out his infectious smile. Lena couldn’t believe her eyes. A mix of emotions washed over her as she tried to process what was happening. The man before her flashed a smile, his expression tinged with confusion when she remained seated.
Down To The Last Detail
The world around her seemed to fade away as if she were trapped in a vacuum, the sound of rushing air filling her ears. And in that moment, all the memories flooded back, hitting her with a force that shook her to her core.
I Think It’s To The Left
Matt’s final words to her were, “I think it’s to the left.” In that moment, there was no grand gesture of love or solemn promise to always be in her thoughts. It was a simple request for directions, fueled by his awareness of her tendency to struggle with map-reading. Yet, for Lena, that day, October 23, 2022, marked the beginning of her worst nightmare.
I Think It’s To The Left
The map in question? It was for the Halloween Fun Carnival, supposed to be a day filled with joy and laughter. Little did she know, it would be a fateful turn that would forever change the course of her life.
Two Matts
Like any other day, Lena and Matt started their morning with breakfast, fueling up before embarking on their hiking adventure. Lena couldn’t help but smile as she observed the two contrasting mental representations of her husband. In the first image, he appeared, wearing comfy pajamas, his glasses slightly askew (he never seemed to remember to clean them), and his hair adorably tousled in a messy bun.
Two Matts
As he skillfully flipped the eggs with a spatula, a sense of warmth enveloped the kitchen. The other picture, however, revealed a different side of Matt, yet to be unraveled. Lena eagerly anticipated the stories and surprises the day would bring.
Good Matt
The first image that Lena fondly named “Good Matt” exuded a cheerful vibe. He embodied the same delightful, considerate, and humorous persona that he always possessed: compassionate. Lena was happily married to him, fully aware that he wasn’t flawless. At times, he displayed a hint of irritability, and their political views didn’t always align. Nevertheless, he remained true to himself, captivating with his charming idiosyncrasies.
Good Matt
Good Matt’s distinctive traits included his adorable habit of snoring, the constant readjustment of his glasses, and his knack for singing off-key. In the entirety of their dynamic connection, Lena cherished every aspect of him, finding comfort in their unique companionship.
Hall of Mirrors
The image that had kept Lena awake for the past month was none other than the enigmatic Bad Matt. At precisely 7:23 PM, Bad Matt appeared. The “Fright Fest Hall of Mirrors,” as cheesy as it may sound, was exactly what it claimed to be, complete with clown faces and clashing symbols reminiscent of a Stephen King tale. As Matt and Lena strolled through this amusement, it transformed into a surreal “hall of mirrors.”
Hall Of Mirrors
Their reflections, distorted and twisted, accompanied them on their journey through this kaleidoscope of illusions. The experience was both thrilling and unsettling, leaving an indelible memory etched in their minds.
Where’s the Exit?
Lena couldn’t help but chuckle as she caught sight of Matt’s distorted image in the mirror, a joke lingering on the tip of her tongue. He was a couple of steps behind, clearly disoriented. “The exit is where?” he queried, a hint of uncertainty in his voice. With a thoughtful pause, Matt offered, “I believe it is to the left.” A soft, wheezing sound followed, prompting Lena to furrow her brow in concern.
Where’s the Exit?
He hadn’t been unwell earlier that day, and that wheeze certainly didn’t sound promising. As Matt coughed ever so slightly and adjusted his glasses on the bridge of his nose, Lena’s attention remained fixated on him, filled with a mix of curiosity and worry.
Are You Okay?
“Are you alright? Lena questioned him. That cough sounded like a strange, rattling wheeze, and I said, “You sound sick.” Matt shook his head and began to blush. He wheezed once more, “Something in my throat.” The hairs on the back of Lena’s neck began to stand up.
Are You Okay?
Her lizard brain was warning her that something seriously wrong with her husband was going on. She said, “Matt, you look…bad.” She gasped as she noticed her husband’s expression when he turned to face her.
Confused
He appeared utterly perplexed, clueless of her identity or the subject she broached. Just before wheezing once again, Matt muttered, “Didn’t shop today.” Lena was taken aback, an acidic pit of anxiety forming in her stomach. She braced herself to scream for help, despite Matt still standing upright but swaying like a tree in a hurricane, his demeanor growing more bewildering by the second.
Confused
She couldn’t fathom what compelled Matt’s strange behavior, but one thing was certain – she needed assistance, and fast. The scene felt like a surreal nightmare, leaving her yearning for clarity and safety amidst this bewildering chaos.
Clash, Clash, Clash
Matt suddenly came to a complete stop, perplexed by the monkey statue suspended from the ceiling. The chained sculpture began clashing its cymbals, initially mistakingly perceived as a joke by Lena. “Matt, come on,” she exclaimed. The echoes of Lena’s voice filled the dimly lit room adorned with mirrors. Clashes reverberated all around, creating an eerie atmosphere.
Clash, Clash, Clash
Concerned, Lena questioned, “Matt?” But there was no response from him, only the continuous clashes, heightening the sense of unease. The space felt entrancing yet unsettling, with each clash amplifying the enigmatic ambiance.
I’m Sorry
Lena abruptly made a U-turn, her heart pounding as she witnessed the distressing scene unfold before her. With his left hand pressed to his chest, Matt lay sprawled on the ground, his face marred by blood and pain. As Lena approached, she noticed his bloodshot eyes, overwhelmed with a mix of fear, anguish, and an unmistakable hint of remorse.
I’m Sorry
Matt’s arm slowly descended, and he collapsed facedown, his eyes red and brimming with teardrops, as if conveying an urgent message of regret: “I’m sorry.” The weight of the moment hung in the air, leaving Lena speechless and her heart heavy with compassion.
Call Someone
Lena’s scream ripped through the amusement park, echoing off the mirrors and piercing the air. Panicking, she fumbled into her pocket, only to discover her phone had died hours ago. Matt’s phone suffered the same fate. The irony of their isolation struck them as amusing earlier, but an hour ago, everything changed. Now, Lena was consumed by horror and despair.
Call Someone
In those terrifying moments, a few agonizing seconds passed before someone, finally responding to her desperate cries, rushed to her aid. Relief washed over Lena as help arrived, reminding her that even in the darkest of times, kindness and assistance can be found.
Sitting With Matt
“What’s happening?” a voice asked. A young woman, barely older than Lena, appeared beside her. Reacting swiftly, she grabbed her phone and dialed 9-1-1. Lena’s voice trembled as she sobbed, “I don’t know, he just collapsed.” The woman relayed their location to the emergency dispatcher, assuring them she would swiftly return with assistance. With urgency in her stride, she dashed outside to await the imminent arrival of the ambulance.
Sitting With Matt
Lena stood there, feeling a mix of fear and helplessness, as the woman disappeared from sight. Time seemed to stretch indefinitely as she waited anxiously, hoping for the arrival of help.
The EMTs Arrive
Lena exclaimed, “Oh, Matt!” It was only now, with him unconscious, that she noticed his struggling breaths and the alarming change in his complexion. From beet-red to a sickly pallor, his face turned. Each shallow breath sounded like a wheeze. Holding his head in her arms, Lena gently rocked him, feeling the dampness of sweat in his hair.
The EMTs Arrive
Precious moments passed, or perhaps hours, as paramedics finally arrived, their presence urging Lena to step aside. With a mix of concern and hope, her heart raced as they worked diligently to assist Matt, within the corridors of the whimsical funhouse.
Getting Out Of The Park
Lena made the decision to drive herself instead of relying on an ambulance, fully aware that it would upset Matt if their car got towed. She had left it overnight at a theme park, desperately clinging to the hope that he would be able to come home by that time. It was a chaotic scene as Lena hurried back to the parking lot, her steps unsteady and unstable.
Getting Out Of The Park
The flickering lights, the laughter of children enjoying themselves, and the overpowering scent of cotton candy threatened to make her nauseous. Finally reaching her car, she wasted no time and hopped in, racing towards the hospital with urgency.