Chapter V: The New Standard
Chairman Vance looked at Sterling, then pointed a weathered finger at Simmons, whose face was completely devoid of color.
"This man believes punctuality matters more than human life," Vance said, his voice echoing across the quiet concourse. "He fired this young man for giving a fainting passenger a cup of water."
Vance turned his gaze upon the trembling supervisor.
"Mr. Simmons, your employment with this airline is terminated effective immediately. You are permanently barred from administrative operations across all our terminals."
Simmons stammered, his knees shaking violently: "Mr. Vance... please... I was only enforcing company policy—"
"Our company policy starts with human dignity," Vance cut in with absolute finality. "Security, escort him off the property."
Chairman Vance then turned to Toby, who stood in stunned silence. The old man reached out, taking the young worker’s hand into a firm, grateful grip.
"You risked your job today to help a stranger on the ground," Vance said warmly. "Starting tomorrow, you are appointed as Assistant Director of Passenger Welfare and Safety Operations, with full university scholarship sponsorship."
Vance smiled as the surrounding travelers and staff broke into spontaneous applause. "Now, son... how about you wheel me to my plane?"