(Continued from Feb. 27, 2010)
A well-built man, whom I assumed to be the bodyguard, was directing traffic. He led the Mini to a parking spot that was far removed from those of the other vehicles. “My modest automobile is being isolated because the guy is not used to seeing such minute units,” Alphonse joked with a loud laugh.
The man came walking toward us as we alighted. He asked: “Are you aware that there is a small bag dangling from your back bumper?”
Since Alphonse had backed into the stall, we hadn’t noticed the bag. However, my young friend knew immediately where he might have picked up the attachment. “Oh, that is why those teenagers in the pub’s parking lot were laughing and waving at me. They probably tied it on; otherwise, they would have told me about it.”
“You are probably right about that,” the man said. “However, we have to ascertain that the attachment is indeed completely innocent. You can go and join the ladies. I will take care of the situation.”
“A silver-haired lady had joined the girls; and, she had apparently told them to remain near her. We heard later that she had remarked: “The older gentleman, over there, looks somewhat like my late brother, Thea’s father.”
“What do you know about aunt Dorothy’s late husband?” Alphonse questioned while we were walking toward the ladies. “The existence of such a stylish boardroom suggests that he was a part of a quality management team.”
“He was the owner and CEO of a company that continues to flourish today. The firm employs between one hundred and one hundred fifty workers and that architecturally beautiful building is still used for board meetings. In fact, aunt Dorothy is a member of the decision making body.”
We had almost reached the girls and I became aware of the older lady’s continuous fixed look at me. Evidently, Thea hadn’t exaggerated. So, I prepared myself for her emotional reaction.
“Aunt, I like you to meet my former neighbor. Can you see a slight resemblance to my father?” Before her aunt could answer–as if the likeness issue was not significant– she introduced Alphonse.
Aunt Dorothy turned to Thea proclaiming: “This gentleman is your father’s exact doppelganger!” She added, with a happy laugh: “I must admit, though, that you are playing your pretending-not-to-notice game splendidly.” Then, turning to me: “Sir, I am extremely pleased to meet you. Welcome to my home!”
(To be continued)