Later I was sitting in the alcove set aside for those waiting for their turn with the phlebotomist, and negan to feel very left out, because it was clear there was a “party” in the works. The drug reps had donned Mardi grad beads and they wheeled carts laden with festive purple, green and gold gift bags, sprouting pretty tisse, party beads and sparkly things, all manner of swag, and a very-delicious-looking-lunch cart…and another with a wide assortment of beverages next to a tray of mardi-gras mugs.

I tried to feel contempt for rep and participant, but what I really felt was jealous.

Yeah, I think I could be bought.