“Howdy bud. Welcome to the Comerite Inn. Where ya from?”
“Northern California,” I say, dropping my bags on the lobby floor.
“California, huh? I’ve never been there. Anyway, consider this your home for a few days.”
“Thanks. I’m just glad to be on solid ground.”
While I fill out the registration form, he references the hotel’s amenities, “Breakfast is served from six to nine. Ice is next to the elevator. And every room comes with free wi-fi.”
“Before I go to my room, could you point me to a restaurant within walking distance? I’d like to get something light before it gets too late.”
“Save your feet; the hotel shuttle can take you; no charge.”
“No thanks, after sitting all day, I could use the walk.”
Confused, but caring and concerned, he replies, “Really? Walk? It’s at least a quarter mile to the closest restaurant.”