She had known it would be busy.  But nothing could have prepared her.  The place practically thrummed with activity like a kicked over anthill.  People arriving, people going to walk the grounds.  None actually leaving.  Just milling around.  Soaking it in.  They had been here for more than a week, many of their faces said, and the party was just about to begin.  Margaret didn't feel like partying though.  In fact, she was the furthest thing from it she had ever been in her life.  

She was approached by a young woman in a blue blazer who offered up a warmly knowing smile and said, "Good afternoon Ms. Ayinger.  Have you been helped yet?"  

Margaret was so taken aback that she froze and before she could say anything, the woman continued, "...

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