Chapter 18
Summary
- Celia is reluctant about a task: going to the premiere of their new movie.
- Celia has feelings of resentment towards Robert, her date for the evening.
- Celia and the protagonist, Evelyn, have a strong friendship. Evelyn persuaded an influential man named Don to acquire a lavish diamond necklace for Celia to wear.
- Don has successfully transformed his career into that of an action star, and his latest movie, "The Righteous", is number one in the country.
- At the premiere, the women instead steal the spotlight and send the crowd into a frenzy. Evelyn and Celia stand on the red carpet, greeting their audiences like they were royalty, and are met with thunderous applause.
- Evelyn's husband Don offends her by dismissing her concerns and interrupting an interview. Evelyn suspects he might be violent towards her later.
- As she watches the movie, Evelyn realizes that despite her own success, Celia is going to be even more successful. She's not resentful or jealous; she feels happy for Celia.
- A party at Ari Sullivan's mansion takes a turn when Evelyn's friend, Ruby, pulls her aside to express her resentment towards Celia for overshadowing them both. Evelyn replies that it's good to recognize when you've been bested and move on.
- Ruby accuses Celia of being a lesbian and insinuates that Evelyn might be as well, causing Evelyn to feel unease and fear. She's also told that her husband, Don, is cheating on her at the same party.
- Upon hearing this, Evelyn is not upset about Don's infidelity, but rather wants to find and speak with Celia.