and pulled out a giant bag of pretzels. I started munching. Loudly. Messily. Crumbs flew everywhere… and some “accidentally” landed in his hair. He ignored me at first, but after a few minutes and one fake sneeze, he finally had enough. Grumbling, he raised his seat. Sweet,

sweet legroom. The flight attendant passed by with a subtle thumbs-up. My mom leaned over and whispered, “Clever. A little sneaky, but clever.” I smiled. It may not have been the most mature move, but I could finally breathe—and stretch. Next time? Maybe we’ll just upgrade to first class.