A 35-year-old marketing consultant, known for her meticulous planning and professional demeanor, boarded a flight from New York to Los Angeles. Her journey was a carefully crafted itinerary that would take her to a major conference with a tight connection to San Diego. She anticipated a smooth and uneventful flight, using the time to prepare for her big presentation. However, the events that unfolded served as a stark reminder that no matter how well you plan, karma often has its own way of balancing the scales.

Settling into her assigned seat, she took note of the man seated beside her. He was sharply dressed, exuding an air of self-importance. From his tailored suit to his pristine shoes, it was clear he was someone who cared about appearances. Yet, his behavior left much to be desired. Barely acknowledging her presence, he remained preoccupied with his luxury watch, checking it obsessively as though he had far more pressing matters to attend to. The marketing consultant brushed it off, attributing his aloofness to stress or preoccupation.

As the plane began to taxi, she focused on her work, pulling out her laptop and reviewing her presentation slides. She barely noticed the man beside her until the in-flight meal service began. Like many travelers, she had pre-ordered her meal due to dietary restrictions, ensuring she would have something to eat on the long flight. When the flight attendant arrived with her tray, she paused her work, ready to enjoy a much-needed break.

However, as the attendant placed the tray on her fold-out table, the man beside her acted swiftly, almost instinctively. Without a word or a glance in her direction, he reached over, grabbed the meal, and began eating. Stunned, she stared at him, waiting for an apology or an explanation, but neither came. Instead, he continued eating as though the meal was his, completely unfazed by the situation.

Gathering her composure, she politely addressed him, saying, “Excuse me, I believe that was my meal.” The man, barely looking up, replied dismissively, “I don’t think so. I ordered this.” His tone was curt, making it clear he had no intention of returning the food or even entertaining the possibility that he might be mistaken.

The flight attendant, who had witnessed the exchange, quickly intervened, confirming that the meal had indeed been intended for her. But before she could offer a solution, the man waved her off, stating, “It’s fine, just bring her another one.” His arrogance was palpable, and while the marketing consultant maintained her professionalism, she couldn’t help but feel a mix of frustration and disbelief at his audacity.

Unfortunately, the airline had a limited supply of special meals, and there wasn’t a replacement available. The flight attendant, apologetic and clearly uncomfortable, offered her a voucher for a snack or beverage as compensation. Accepting the gesture graciously, she decided to let the matter slide, focusing instead on her work and trying not to dwell on the incident.

As the flight progressed, the man’s behavior continued to reflect his entitlement. He frequently called on the flight attendants, demanding drinks and additional snacks, often with little regard for their time or effort. It was evident to everyone around him that he considered himself above the rest, treating the cabin crew and fellow passengers as though they were mere inconveniences in his day.

However, as the plane began its descent into Los Angeles, karma decided it was time to intervene. Shortly before landing, the man pulled out his phone, ignoring the crew’s instructions to keep devices off during the descent. In his haste to check emails or perhaps coordinate his next move, he accidentally spilled a drink all over his lap and the seat beneath him. The cold liquid soaked through his expensive trousers, leaving him visibly flustered and scrambling for napkins.

The marketing consultant couldn’t help but notice the poetic justice of the moment. While she didn’t wish ill on anyone, the incident felt like a fitting consequence for his earlier actions. As he fumbled to clean himself up, she calmly packed her belongings, ready to disembark and catch her connecting flight.

Upon landing, their paths diverged. She moved swiftly through the airport, making her connection to San Diego with time to spare. Meanwhile, the man, now clearly frazzled, was held back by airport staff after an issue with his carry-on luggage. It seemed his arrogance had finally caught up with him, as he faced delays and complications that would surely disrupt his day.

Reflecting on the events of the flight, the marketing consultant couldn’t help but feel a sense of validation. The experience served as a reminder that kindness and humility often pave the way for smoother journeys, while entitlement and arrogance can lead to unforeseen obstacles. In the end, karma has a way of ensuring that balance is restored, even at 35,000 feet.