Howdy All,
I've been mystery shopping for about 15 years but had a multi year hiatus. I'm back and looking forward to the fun again. Can I get a thumbs up? :)
This is my opinion only but I read between 5 and 8pm to include 8pm. Good luck!
Yes, you will have $125 in income, but you will also have $125 in expense. Keep records of both and it is a wash and you won't pay any tax.
Doubtful that he knew. I go to a lot of conferences and many are in hotels. People are constantly going out in the lobby to make phone calls, avoid having to sit in boring meetings, etc. I'm sure he was just making small talk.
In that situation I would have said "Well I've been waiting on this guy and don't know where he is. I'm going to leave soon if he doesn't show up. The nerve of people!" Now you look totally normal when you go back to get your car in a short period of time.