Margaret Caldwell stood near the head table in a navy silk suit, greeting two city council members while a waiter set out water glasses.

She turned when I reached the coat check, her eyes running over my charcoal dress before she stepped away from the group.

“Grace, my dear,” Margaret said, touching the triple strand of pearls at her collar.

“I didn’t expect to see you on the registration list today.”

“The regional trauma board sent three representatives,” I said, adjusting my silver wristwatch against my cuff.

“Of course,” Margaret said, stepping closer so her words stayed between us.