JustAsh on BudgetPixel
@JustAsh · 7/30/2026
As the wheels lifted off the ground Sarah looked over to see Judy’s knuckles white as she gripped her armrest and her eyes shut as she worked her jaw to keep her ears from popping. She gently reached over and placed her hand on top of Judy’s while leaning over to quietly speak in her ear. It’s OK babydoll, I’m right here. I’ve got you.” Judy rearranged her hand to hold Sarah’s tightly, opened her eyes and looked at her gratefully, “Thank you, cupcake. I’m glad you’re here, I’ll be OK.” Sarah looked at her with deep sympathy. She didn’t love flying, but to her it was more of a nuisance than a fear. Judy was obviously frightened by it and learning about Calista’s parents obviously hadn’t helped her. “Judy, sweetie, maybe you could think about getting a low dose of valium when you have to fly,” Sarah gently suggested. Judy smiled at her, “I actually have a prescription for just that reason, but I didn’t want to take any today. Because I don’t take it regularly it makes me very drowsy and I didn’t want to fall asleep and leave you here by yourself for the whole flight.” Sarah pursed her lips, “Judy, that’s really sweet of you, but honey, if you need them to relax for something like this it’s OK. I’ve been flying all over the world by myself for years now so I would have managed.” Judy just shook her head, “no Sarah, you don’t have to be by yourself anymore. I can be there for you too, even when it’s a little uncomfortable for me.” Sarah smiled sweetly at that. It occurred to Sarah that Judy had gotten on this flight badly frightened... and still her first concern had been whether Sarah would be lonely.
![[Anxious red-haired woman is comforted by her blonde travel companion sitting next to her inside a commercial airplane cabin]](https://cdn.budgetpixel.com/posts/15522/1785383452874136733-1d58ddeb-4c67-45d0-a517-3287ee97febd.jpg)
Tags: flight anxiety, nervous flyer, airplane travel, travel companion, supportive friend, air travel, airplane cabin, female friendship, travel stress, fear of flying, commercial flight, casual travel outfit, travel support, women traveling, flight nerves
Comments
DavidP
Lovely image and narrative. Saw your comments about tags. I shall have to remember to visit your page, since I do love your work.