12. Echoes of Sorrow

Damon had a business trip planned, and Lia was set to accompany him on their journey to Japan. As they boarded the plane, Damon took his seat, only to find himself uncomfortably positioned next to a woman who seemed quite determined to engage him in conversation. Flirtatious Passenger: "So, what brings you to Japan? Business or pleasure?" Damon, trying to maintain politeness: "It's a business trip." However, the woman persisted in her attempts to strike up a more personal conversation, making Damon increasingly uneasy. Deciding he needed a change, Damon looked around the business-class cabin for an alternative seat. Damon (to himself): "This is not ideal, but I can't endure this for the entire flight." Spotting an available seat next to Lia, Damon seized the opportunity to escape the persistent passenger. With a polite excuse, he moved to the empty seat next to Lia. Damon, feigning nonchalance: "Mind if I take this seat? It seems there's a bit too much chatter on the other side."