How sneaky can he really be, with that big stupid hat and a complete lack of subtlety in conversation?

But before Rita can say anything, she gets her answer. He's gone before she knows it, and at first, she doubts her eyes; she must have somehow missed him moving. "Cole?" She looks around, but there's no sign of him.

... Right. Well, that's an annoying way to leave, but it looks like all she can do now is wait and hope he comes back with some news. There's no use standing around alone, though, so after only a short wait, Rita goes to mingle with the other guests for a while.