Chapter 10. Stewart. (April 1996)
I've stopped at many Travelodge's over the years, some good and some bad, but as my stays are rarely more than a couple of nights at most, the quality of the accommodation is of little concern. The Travelodge I pulled into on this particular day though I remember to have been amongst the better ones.
Changing from the flat driving shoes to my high heels, I entered reception at the same time as a smartly dressed guy whose manners supported his attire. With a gracious sweep of his arm the guy courteously insisted that I go first.
A little later I was unpacking the few things I had with me; it was only a one night stay, when there was a knock on the door. On opening it, instead of a member of staff I found the polite guy from reception.
"Hello, they've put me in the next room so I thought I'd introduce myself. Stewart."
He proffered his hand.
"Sandi." I told him shaking hands.
"Delightful name," he said stepping over the threshold. "To go with a lovely lady."
Stewart's eyes took in my undies on the bed, "Good taste in lingerie to."
He went on to invite me out for a meal later, saying he knew of a 'charming little place, excellent food' not far away. Exuding old-world charm Stewart took my hand to raise it to his lips when I thanked him and said I'd be ready in an hour.
"I look forward to the evening then." Stewart said, lingering to glance at the room again.
"Bit pokey singles, aren't they. I always book a double for added comfort," he told me.
There seemed some sort of magnetism between us and I think we both knew then, I certainly did, that on returning from the meal it was to his room we'd both be heading!