CHAPTER 67

I got to the banquet around 6:30, and even then it was crowded with press.

I went around the back, telling the Security Guard my name and where I worked before he let me give the car to the valet.

When I entered, there was an array of bright festive Christmas lights handing from the tall ceiling. There were many tables, the center left empty for the dancing to happen. A ways off, there was a live orchestra, doing sound check.

As soon as I walked in, handing my coat...