Sex and Vanity: A Novel

Cecil arrives at Rosemary’s dinner party with flowers for Marian and Charlotte. He apologizes to everyone for being in a bad mood at the club. Then, he takes Lucie aside and explains his behavior in depth. He recounts a time as a boy when he was shamed at the country club for wearing something inappropriate. The Dorset incident triggered and upset him. Lucie feels guilty and apologizes. They share their mutual family frustrations, and Cecil reiterates how perfect they are for each other. He then presents Lucie with a small box containing a car key. Outside, he shows her the new “Aston Martin DB11 Volante convertible” he bought her as an apology gift (253). Everyone comes out to see the car. Cecil gives George his phone so that he can take photos of them in front of it.

Over lunch, everyone asks George about Viv. She’s away on a photoshoot and isn’t dating George. Cecil is scrolling through his phone, exclaiming at his car post. He then announces that they will all see Glimpses of the Moon, a movie set to premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival.

Lucie is shocked to learn that Olivia Lavistock wrote and produced the film.