The seat itself was no longer what Richard wanted. She could see that now. You want me to tell everyone you were justified? I want you to acknowledge there was a reason.
There was a reason. Richard's expression softened slightly. Evelyn continued. You wanted my seat.
His face hardened again. You know that's not what I mean. Then tell me what you want me to say. Richard looked around.
Passengers were watching again. I want you to admit I had a legitimate reason to be frustrated. Evelyn nodded slowly. And then what?
Richard frowned. What do you mean? If I say you were frustrated, what changes? Richard did not answer.
Do you get my seat? No. Does your boarding pass change? No.
Does your old reservation become the current one? Richard looked away. No. Then this isn't about the seat anymore.
Richard stared at her. Evelyn's voice remained calm. You wanted me to solve your seat problem by moving. That isn't fair.
When I wouldn't, you wanted the crew to solve it. Richard shook his head. And when they wouldn't, you started telling them I was confused. I told them what I observed.
And now you want me to solve something else for you. Richard frowned. What? Your embarrassment.
The word landed harder than Evelyn intended. Richard's face reddened. Clare immediately stepped between them. That's enough.
Mr. Hail, return to your seat. Richard looked past her. She's making this personal. Evelyn almost laughed.
You came back to my row. Richard started forward. Clare raised her hand. Stop.
He stopped. Clare's tone changed. This is no longer a discussion about whether Mrs. Brooks should switch seats. That issue was resolved.
I know. You were given a direct instruction by the cabin lead. I know. You acknowledged it.
Richard said nothing. Clare pointed toward his row. Return to your seat now. Richard looked at his phone, then at Evelyn.
This would have taken 10 seconds if you just looked. Evelyn shook her head. That is what you've been saying all morning. What?
That everything would be easier if I just did what you wanted. Richard stared at her. Evelyn continued. My answer is still no.
Clare pointed down the aisle. Your seat, Mr. Hail. This time, Richard turned. He walked back without speaking.
The passengers watching him quickly returned their attention to phones, windows, and bags. Richard sat down. Clare followed. Fasten your seat belt.
He clicked it into place. Clare remained beside him. I need to make sure there is no misunderstanding. Richard looked up.
There isn't. I'm going to say it anyway. She spoke slowly. Remain in your assigned seat.