I knew I looked rough. The fever, chills, and dry cough had hit me like a freight train the night before my flight. But with the hotel booked and meetings lined up, canceling wasn’t an option. I pulled myself together, boarded the plane, and quietly took my window seat—armed with tissues and water, hoping to rest and stay out of everyone’s way.

But ten minutes after takeoff, the peace shattered.

“This is unbearable!” a woman shouted from across the aisle. “He’s coughing constantly! I don’t have to put up with this!”

She looked to be in her 50s, and every bit furious. She turned toward me, her voice rising, “Are you contagious? Why did you even get on this flight?!”

Trying to stay calm, I replied, “I’m really sorry. I’ll take some medicine and try to be quiet… maybe headphones might help?”

“I’m not putting anything on! This is my vacation, and you’re ruining it!”

Heads turned. Then she jabbed the call button.

A flight attendant approached with a polite smile. “Is everything okay?”

“He’s sick! I paid for my ticket—I shouldn’t have to sit next to this!”

The flight attendant nodded and walked away. A few minutes later, she returned, this time with a more serious expression. She had clearly spoken with the captain.

“Since the passenger isn’t feeling well,” she said evenly, “we’d like to find the most comfortable solution for everyone. We can offer a seat change.”

The woman huffed. “I’m not moving because of him! I paid for this seat!”

The attendant turned to me. “If you’re alright with it, we do have one seat available.”

The woman interrupted, delighted, “Yes! Move him! I don’t want to listen to this for the whole flight!”

I shrugged and nodded. “If it helps, I don’t mind.”

“Wonderful,” the attendant smiled. “The only free seat is in business class. You’ll be more comfortable there—with dinner and drinks included. Please follow me.”

The cabin went silent. As I stood up and walked past her, I saw her expression shift—frozen at first, then melting into disbelief and simmering envy. She mumbled something under her breath, but no one paid attention.

Soon, I was nestled in a wide leather seat, sipping hot tea with honey under a warm blanket, while the rest of the cabin faded behind me.

She got her quiet. I got the upgrade.

And the rest of the flight? Peaceful and delicious.