Flight

She gasped with excitement and shouted over the noise of the propeller: "The islands in the clouds are real!!".

The pilot just turned and scoffed, "Of course they're real, what we're you expecting the whole world was in on some big conspiracy theory? If that's the case you're crazier than I thought you were."

She smacked his arm without having to tear her gaze away from the beautiful sight in front of her, "Yeah, and if you're judging me for being so excited about seeing them for the first time, you're more heartless than I thought."

"You must have seen pictures and videos and things," the pilot inquired as he raised the helicopter above that islands.

"Well of course I have, I'm not sheltered. It's just not the same as seeing them in person. They're magnificent! It's insane that I actually get to see them myself. I used to dream of this day when I was a little girl but I never expected it to actually happen," she trailed off as she gazed at the islands.

"Well," the pilot began, " you get to stay here for 2 months so I'm sure you'll have many stories to tell when your time is over. I'm about to land so just be prepared. After we land you have to go to the science bay and get all the necessary shots and vaccinations for your stay. Enjoy your time on the islands and if you need anything talk to your group leader. I'll see you in two months Ms. Johnson."

"It's been a pleasure, and please call me Jackie, everyone else does."

The helicopter landed with soft thud of pavement and Jackie clambered out onto the ground.

"I'll see you in 2 months Jackie. Enjoy your scientific vacation." called the pilot as she walked away.

"Bye Vince!" she yelled back, "You know, you should really take a vacation of your own."

As she walked away towards the main building Vince stared at her as it minimized in the distance. He smiled and prepared himself for the flight back to the mountains away from the islands.