"I haven’t seen her in years" but he actually met her

[HoldenCaulfield]

In "Long Lost" (Harlan Coben), the protagonist says "I haven’t seen her in years". Actually he met her a few hours before, after a long break. Should he use the present perfect in such a situation?

 

[MikeNewYork]

If it had been years before the recent meeting, I would say "I hadn't seen her in years".

 

[Matthew Wai]

Is it OK to say 'I hadn't seen her for years when we met a few hours ago.'

Not a teacher.

 

[Raymott]

If it is known between the speaker and hearer that he saw her an hour ago, he can say "I haven't seen her for years." The context would be clear. If the hearer did not know this, the speaker is not being honest if he says this.