“I’m sorry Mr. Timberlake, but no flights are flying in or out
of the airport until the storm passes,” explained the airline ticket
agent.
“Daddy,” Michael said, tugging on Justin’s arm. “Charlie
won’t let me play with the video game.”
Justin looked down at his son for a moment before turning back to the ticket
agent. “What about a private plane?” A look of plea was in his
eyes.
The lady shook her head with a sorry smile. “I’m sorry, Mr. Timberlake.
All flights have been grounded.”
“Daddyyy,” Michael whined, as he continued to tug on Justin’s
arm. “Charlie won’t let me play with the video game. It’s
my turn.”
“Please…” Justin glanced at the ticket lady’s name
tag. “Sue. Its two days before Christmas. I have my two sons with me.
I need to get home.”
“I understand Mr. Timberlake, but there’s nothing I can do. It’s
out of my hands. All flights have been grounded until the storm passes.”
“Which will be?”
“The forecasters predict the storm will clear out of the area tomorrow.”
“Tomorrow?!” Justin practically shouted getting people’s
attention.
“Daddyyy!”
“WHAT?! What is it, Michael?!” Justin shouted, his voice full
of frustration over having to spend the night in a busy holiday airport.
Michael looked at his Dad and started to cry. “I want Mommy!”
Justin rested his elbows on the counter and proceeded to rest his head in
his hands and sighed deeply, taking a moment to calm himself. It was then,
when he picked up on the whispers of his name about the airport and a few
flashes were seen here and there. He thought it would be easy. Just pick up
his kids and go, but when was living his life in the public eye ever easy
for him. It got even harder after he got married and had a family, and then
got a divorcé.
“Sir?”
Justin looked up at Sue. “I can’t do this. I can’t spend
a night in an airport with my children alone. I need help. I need someone’s
help.”
Seeing the look of desperation in Justin’s face, Sue nodded. "I’ll
see what I can do, I’ll be right back.” She hurried away.
“Hey Dad, can I have twenty dollar?” Charlie asked walking up
beside his brother, who was still crying.
Justin turned to his 7 year old son while picking Michael up. “Why do
you need twenty dollars?”
“To buy stuff. So can I?”
“Mr. Timberlake,” said a lady as she approached Justin with her
hand extended. “I’m Martha Kay, I’m the assistant manager
of the airport.” She took a quick scan of the small crowd that form
just behind them, watching their every move. “I think it would be a
wise thing if we move this into my office.”
“Thank you!” Justin replied in relief as he tried his best to
comfort Michael by rubbing his back.
“Daaad!” said Charlie. “Can I have twenty dollars?”
Martha gave Justin a knowing smile and gestured for her assistant Tim, who
was standing a few feet away. “Tim, could you please get Mr. Timberlake
bags and bring them to my office.”
“Yes, Ma’am. Right away!” He quickly began picking up the
luggage and, careful not to drop anything he followed slowly behind.