Michael was sh0cked. He had confirmed his choice, got a digital receipt, and paid extra for the premium meal.

“That can’t be right,” he said calmly. “I booked salmon in advance.”

The attendant’s expression hardened. “Well, it’s not available anymore. You’ll have to take the pasta.”

Michael saw the passenger next to him—a younger man in a polo shirt—being served salmon just moments earlier.

“Excuse me,” Michael said, keeping his voice steady. “Why was my confirmed meal given away?”

The attendant leaned in, lowering her voice. “Sir, I need you to calm down and accept what we have.”

Discomfort spread through the first-class cabin.

Michael wasn’t shouting, just asking a reasonable question. Still, the attendant’s posture suggested she saw him as a problem.