After breakfast, the floor where the band stays is in a state of controlled chaos. Chaperones stand at various spots along the hall, hollering out the name of where they’re going and how much longer they’ll wait for stragglers before heading out. Students gather around their friends or the chaperones, chatting excitedly. One group of girls, heading for the palace, giggle nervously at the thought of meeting Prince Harry, who’s rumored to be in town. Another group of mostly older guys wrestles while waiting to go see a rugby game. Names are shouted over the din, friends looking for each other, and doors slam as the band members get ready to leave.
Thad tries to retreat to his room, but the sounds out in the hallway easily come right through the walls. Every few moments, someone knocks or ki
