Sex and Vanity: A Novel

Five years later, Marian and Freddie Churchill visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art while waiting for Lucie and her boyfriend, Cecil Pine, to arrive. They comment on the paintings and joke until Freddie says that they must be outside for the surprise. Per Cecil’s instructions, they “stand on the steps outside Adolfo’s old building” and wait (162). Meanwhile, they chat about Cecil and what it will be like to have him in the family. Cecil is part of an elite family and was named one of the most eligible bachelors by various publications and clubs.

Cecil and Lucie arrive. Cecil leads Lucie to the rooftop, where he proposes. Dancers from the New York City Ballet and performers from the Big Apple Circus swirl around the scene. Lucie says yes, and Cecil delivers a lengthy thank-you speech to the event’s participants. Marian and Freddie remark on the event while waiting for Cecil and Lucie to join them. Afterward, they venture to the Carlyle Hotel for lunch, where Lucie shows her family her giant ring. Cecil continues making speeches about how perfect he and Lucie are for each other. He delivers similar remarks when various guests enter whom he recognizes.