Joyce would take another few days, if she ever got the ticket. I promised to wait at the hotel, or leave a message until she arrived. After the third day, I was to quit waiting.

A knock at the door. Joyce. Too much to explain. Lots of good luck and lots of walking. She’s tired. I’m just waking up. Let’s enjoy the complimentary breakfast and catch up. I dated Joyce off an on for 4 years. We were still best friends. I hadn’t seen her in 6 months. I didn’t expect to see her for a few more days.

Over a breakfast of ham, cheese, jams, butter, Portuguese rolls, tea, orange juice and sweet fruits– we caught up. We caught up as much as friends who haven’t seen each other in 6 months could catch up. We talked about each other’s trips and the minor dramas that ensued in what seemed like a long hiatus. We swapped storied of mutual friends and of new ones. In Guinea the staples for food are three types of curry and rice, she explained. This was a feast, complete with meat. >>>