Chapter 20

Summary

• Evelyn finds herself in the laundry room, struggling to return to the party. Celia finds her there and they discuss suspicions about Celia's sexuality.
• Evelyn kisses Celia, exploring her emotions and physical reactions in the process. Despite the potential scandal and consequences, Evelyn is focused on the immediate experience.
• After the kiss, Celia leaves the laundry room and Evelyn tries to confront her feelings.
• Next, Evelyn finds her husband, Don, with another woman. She quickly leaves, with Don trying to follow and explain, but Evelyn is determined to act on her feelings for Celia.
• Evelyn asks Harry, a trusted friend, to take her home from the party. Harry agrees and doesn't question her sudden decision to leave her husband.
• On the drive home, she tells Harry about Don's infidelity. Harry is unsurprised, mentioning that Don has always been drawn to other women. This shocks and hurts Evelyn, who had been unaware of her husband's actions.
• Harry brings Evelyn to his home instead of hers in order to protect her from Don. They discuss their shared passion for Hollywood and the industry, which is rooted not in financial gain but in personal satisfaction and ego.
• Before Evelyn goes to sleep in Harry's guest room, they discuss the conflict between her personal desires and the expectations of her career in Hollywood. Harry advises her to be aware of the studio's interests, which may not align with her own.
• Upon returning home the next day, Evelyn feels certain that her marriage with Don is over, and she is somewhat relieved to find that he's not there. Instead, she finds Celia waiting for her.
• Despite the complex nature of their relationship and identities, Evelyn affirms her feelings for Celia. She tells Celia that she used to love Don, but now the only person she thinks about is her.
• After stating her romantic feelings for Celia, Evelyn proceeds to pack her bags, indicating her intention to take action and possibly leave her home and life with Don.