I was already regretting the flight. My 3-year-old, Elias, was mid-meltdown despite snacks, books, and cartoons. Then a kind flight attendant appeared. She calmed him with pretzels and a gentle task, turning his tears into giggles. I was grateful—until I looked closer. It was Raya. My ex’s sister. The one who vanished after the custody battle. Elias called her “Auntie Ray.” My heart sank.

Later, I confronted her. She admitted seeing Elias once—months ago—when my ex, Victor, had him. She thought we shared custody. But I had full custody. He had taken Elias without my permission. Raya was shocked. She’d believed his lies and cut contact after realizing he hadn’t changed. She apologized and explained she hadn’t reached out because of the painful past.