Impressions

Chapter 17 - Meeting in-laws and outlaws

Thoko stepped into the hotel lobby and looked around for Sam Woodcombe. They were meant to be having tea in half an hour and she wanted to get a seat before the older woman chose a store front window. Hotel Belle Fleure had a delightful coffee shop that hosted stars, starlets, the rich, the famous and the wealthy. Cocoa by Coco was the spot to be seen at when you wanted to be seen.

Thoko found the perfect spot in the nearly crowded shop. It was near the window to have the light come in but far enough to avoid a camera lens. She chose the seat that faced away from the window. A waiter came to her.

“I’m sorry ma’am this table is reserved.” The waiter told her expecting her to stand up.

“Yes, I am aware of that. Samantha Woodcombe and guest am I correct?” Thoko replied not looking up from the menu which she’d asked for from another waiter.

“Yes, ma’am; I can seat you anywhere else if you’re happy to wait.”

“No, thank you.” She continued to peruse the menu calmly.

“Ma’am, if you don’t get up now I’ll have no choice but to call security.”

‘Do you know the name of Sam’s guest?” Her grip tightened on the menu. The media parasites outside would have a field day if she were thrown out by security.

“Thokozani Musa.” The waiter announced proudly. Somehow it didn’t occur to him to verify her identity though. He was certain that this American woman could not be the African woman being hosted by the generous Mrs. Sam Woodcombe. In fact, he was sure of it.

“Good. Be so kind as to bring me a glass of water and direct Mrs. Woodcombe here now that she’s arrived.” Thoko looked up and smiled brightly at the waiter who looked up to find Samantha Woodcombe heading in their direction.

“Ma’am, please leave.” The waiter demanded in almost panic.

Thoko shook her head and watched the waiter stomp over to the security guards. The waiter pointed at her. Thoko hid her smile behind her menu. She’d already asked the manager on duty to have the table. The waiter, bless his heart, was only going to get himself in trouble.

Samantha Woodcombe stopped just before the table as two security guards appeared out of thin air. She looked around. “Gentlemen, if I’m not under threat I would like to join my guest for tea.” She politely announced.

“There’s a woman at your table who won’t leave ma’am.”

“What’s her name?” Samantha Woodcombe asked quietly. Her question was met with silence. Irritation showed on her face. Her voice was cold and even when she spoke. “None of you know?”

She pulled her cell phone from her bag and flipped through her contacts. She pressed on a particular contact. She put the phone to her ear. “Hello darling…I am fine thanks and you?...Oh marvelous. How are your delightful daughters?” Sam laughed. “Oh good. Darling, I know this is awfully short notice but I’d like a table set for tea for a special guest and myself for today…oh wonderful. We’re on our way.”

She cut the call and dropped her phone into her bag. She pushed past the waiter and security staff straight to the table. “Dear Thoko, we have reservations elsewhere, let’s go.”

Thoko looked up from the menu surprised. She’d been looking forward to trying the tarts. She nodded and picked up her hand bag.

Samantha inspected the young woman. She couldn’t find fault with her dressing, make up or decorum. Something fishy was going on. She smiled at Thoko and gave her a hug and a kiss before linking their arms.