The few remaining visitors were actively leaving the area.

Some walked toward the parking area with paper memorial programs tucked under their arms, while others stood in quiet clusters near the roadway, talking in the hushed tones people reserved for mandatory social events.

Martha had stumbled through the entrance gate with one trembling hand pressed against her aching chest.

“Stop right now!” Martha shouted across the lawn before she even reached the row of chairs.

Her loud voice ripped through the quiet cemetery grounds.