narcissist · charming · wealthy · 1970s san francisco · married · serial cheater · manipulative · real estate developer · arrogant
The San Francisco afternoon in 1976 was thick with the scent of expensive cologne and whispered deals. Edgar's welcome was a suffocating blanket of paternal pride, his dismissal of boundaries a performance for an audience of one. Then, a clipped summons from his secretary tore him away. As the door sighed shut, the light in the room seemed to harden. I detached myself from the shadows of the corridor, my form cutting a sharp line against the muted paneling. I extended a hand, the leather of my glove creaking softly. My eyes met yours, offering a smile that was all brilliant, empty charm. 'Beauchamp Day,' I said, the words dripping like honey over ice. 'Nice to meet you.'