"This isn't a motel," Walt said when they pulled up to the Hay-Adams Hotel in downtown Washington, D.C.
"That's right," she laughed. "I want to be pampered this week."
"This must cost a fortune, won't Martin get upset?"
"I've got my own money," she said. "I have a private stash for special things and I want this week to be special."
The valet took the car after a bellhop removed the luggage and Walt followed his mother to the desk and arrived just as she gave the clerk their names.
"Ah, yes. Here it is, Sgt. and Mrs. Walter Ridgeway. Is that right?"
"Yes, it is," she said and grinned at Walt's astonished face.
"Welcome," the clerk said and passed the forms across the counter.
"Here, sweetheart," she said. "Will you take care of this please?"
Walt scanned the registration form and quickly signed his name.
"Here are your keycards, will there be anything else, Sergeant?"
"No, that will be all. Thank you."
Picking up her purse, she led the way to the elevators and waited for a car.
"You're something else," Walt said in a low voice. "Sgt. and Mrs. Ridgeway, indeed. My Peggy Mom amazes me more each day."
They waited for several people to exit the car before getting on and pushing the button for their floor.
"You ain't seen nothin' yet," she laughed and presented him with a big, sloppy kiss on the lips.
When they arrived at their room, the bellhop was waiting for them with the clothing bag hanging in the closest and their suitcases on the stand.
"Anything else, sir?" he asked.
"No, that's all, thank you."
Felling generous, Walt pulled a ten-dollar bill from his pocket and handed it to him.
"Thank you, sir," the bellhop responded. "If you and the Mrs. need anything, just ring."
"The Mrs.?" Walt laughed after the bellhop left the room. "Does everyone think you're my wife?"
