The Lunch That Never Was
We were at the Mexican embassy in D.C, catering a high-profile lunch for President Fox when it happened. We arrived early — there was a lot to set up. Everything had to be perfect. I remember the menu clearly — a pre-set salad followed by filet mignon, lobster tail and steamed vegetables and crème brulee to finish. I was plating up the salads when the embassy organiser rushed into the small kitchen to deliver the news. It was just before nine am.
“An aircraft just crashed into the world trade center,” she said, gravely.
She didn’t cancel the lunch; it was probably just a terrible accident.
Twenty minutes later she returned, hands trembling. “Another plane has hit the other tower.” she announced. It got quiet fast. Someone quietly muttered “Oh Dios mío.” The lady continued, “We’re getting advice on what to do. I’ll update you when I know something.”
No-one could comprehend what was unfolding outside. After what seemed like an eternity, the lady returned for the third and final time.
“The Pentagon’s been hit. There’s another plane on a course for the White House. They believe these are co-ordinated attacks. We’re evacuating immediately. Leave everything and follow me.” No one moved. “Quickly. They’re locking down the building.” She clapped her hands. We walked back through the embassy towards the exit.
I remember walking past all the tables that had already been meticulously set by white gloved hands. Silverware had been polished until they shone, placed on the tables with delicate precision. Crisp linen tablecloths were steamed straight, and brilliant white napkins folded with razor sharp creases. Water jugs sat ready on the stations, their ice cubes clinking gently. In the kitchen, trays of delicious food, perfectly prepared and cooked, sat ready in hot boxes. Chilled white wine rested in ice buckets, ready to be uncorked. Bouquets of flowers adorned every table and I remember thinking how beautiful the room looked. How splendid and correct everything was. Everything sparkled and glittered, everything was in its place. Everything was clean, and beautiful and perfect. I remember that clearly as I stepped outside into a different world.
