The knock was slight, but Tony heard it. He was on the phone with Paulis mother in London, and he paused in mid-sentence. He didnt wish to be disturbed, and he wasnt expecting anyone. He hoped it wasnt the woman from the pool.
Earlier that day, a tall blonde woman had approached him, and asked if he were alone. She was mildly attractive, but too bosomy for Tonys taste.
He ignored the knock and resumed his conversation with Mrs. Lang, who was alarmed that no one had heard from Pauli. The knock came again, but this time with more force.
Who is it? Tony shouted with irritation. There was no reply.
He told Mrs. Lang he would call her as soon as he heard from Pauli and hung up the phone.
As he started toward the door, he hoped this wouldnt be a repeat of what happened last month at a hotel in San Francisco. He didnt wish to have another encounter with a woman who didnt understand that he preferred to do the choosing.
He didnt like women who asserted themselves by taking on what he considereda mans role.
When he snatched the door open, he was surprised to see the waiter from the restaurant standing quietly in a servile pose, with his head bowed slightly.
Mr. Mangetti, I hate to disturb you. But I fulfilled my promise to find out more about Miss Jefferson.
Tonys stomach began to churn. For a moment, he had forgotten about the mystery of his rescue.
Oh yeah, come in, Tony said, pointing the man to a chair. He was surprised however, when the waiter accepted his offer. He had done so out of social habit, but clearly didnt expect him to accept the invitation. He decided instantly, that the man was either stupid or untrained in hotel protocol.
I hope whatever you have is worth my token of interest, Tony said, as he sat across from the man.
It is my hope sir, the waiter replied, that you will judge with appreciation, the efforts of one who aspires to be more than a mere servant to such an esteemed gentleman as yourself.
Tony shifted uncomfortably in the chair. He didnt like people with agendas, which werent apparent. He sensed this guy wanted more than just to earn the hundred dollars already given him. He gestured for the man to speak.
The waiter pulled out a pad and began to read.
Miss Persephone Jefferson, checked out of this hotel three days ago and informed the desk clerk that she was going to Port Antonio to stay at the Trident, which by the way, is the most exclusive hotel on the isle of Jamaica, and quite expensive.
You may also want to know that it is a common rumor that Miss Pepper, as we call her, is assumed wealthy, he inserted proudly.
However, Miss Jefferson did not go to Port Antonio. She went instead to the airport, where she caught a plane back to the States. The taxi driver, who took her said she talked on and on about the magnificent city of Chicago. But according to my cousin Gary, who works in the front office here at the hotel, her portfolio showed an address in Augusta, Georgia. But it was a post office box.
The man stopped and looked at Tony for a sign of approval. There was none. Tony was not a man who gave accolades easy. He got up and walked to the window. With his back turned, he posed a question.
When did Miss Jefferson check into the hotel?
She checked in two days before she checked out.
I hope sir, that you are impressed with my fact-finding skills, the waiter said with a big grin.
Tony recognized the mans comment was more of a question than a statement. He didnt answer. He knew if he acted too impressed, he wouldnt be able to get rid of the guy.
He moved toward the door, motioning for the man to follow. He found it interesting that a wealthy black woman would come to Jamaica alone. His curiosity was spiked even more with this new piece of information. He wondered if she was indeed wealthy.
He turned back to the waiter.
What else do you know about this woman? he asked.
I know nothing more sir, the waiter replied.
Well, Tony said, as he opened the door. Thank you for your help. I see youre also a gentleman who believes in earning an honest wage.
He had decided not to extend an additional tip. He was ready to get back on the phone. Though his curiosity about the woman who saved his life was renewed, it was somewhat eclipsed by Paulis disappearance.
The waiter didnt move.
Sir, if you dont mind, I was wondering if perhaps there is anything else I can do for you? he asked with a knowing grin, as he looked admiringly around the suite.
I mean, it seems a shame that a gentleman of your caliber should spend a lovely evening alone in such a beautiful setting. Perhaps I could arrange for some special company? It would only cost fifty U.S. for one and a hundred U.S. for two.
Of course, in accordance with your fancy, there is always more expensive company available to accommodate your pleasure.
Tony closed the door. He smiled and looked directly into the mans eyes. He was glad, he was the taller of the two, and he was anxious to seize the opportunity to do what he did best. He spoke in a casual tone.
It seems my friend, that though you appear to be a great fact-finder, you obviously suffer from PWB.
PWB? the waiter replied, with a puzzled expression.
Yes, Tony said. PWB is to presume without basis and is a known malady among those unpolished in tourist etiquette.
The waiters plastered grin disappeared in embarrassment, as Tony continued.
You see, one should never presume that all tourists are the same, and while its certainly proper to assist and be prepared to accommodate all tastes and requests that might come your way, it is more appropriate that you should wait for the request to be made.
Im certain youll also agree that solicitations of any sort are not representative of a hotel of such distinction. It cheapens the atmosphere.
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