"Did somebody call for a lift?"

Scarlett ran towards the balcony to see what was causing the commotion. In an instant, all of her previous frustration melted away. There stood Fred in a brand new airship, beaming like a little boy on Christmas morning. She stifled a smile at the ridiculous sight and shot him a scolding look.

"Fred, you foolish boy!" she shouted above the hissing of the airship. "What do you think you're doing?"

"What does it look like I'm doing?" he said, a wide grin etched across his face. "I'm helping you catch Abbington's minions before they get away."

"By burning through your inheritance and giving your father another ulcer?" she said, raising an eyebrow. "Wouldn't hiring a pilot be easier?"

"But not nearly as fun," he said, a mischievous glint in his blue eyes. "Now climb in before I change my mind about giving you a ride."

Scarlett shook her head, no longer able to keep the laughter from her eyes. 

 "Show-off!"

"Wet blanket!"