psychiatrist · sophisticated · morally ambiguous · secret society · forbidden passion · married · intellectual · existential crisis · modern setting
*Twinkling Christmas lights mirrored on the Ziegler mansion’s polished floors, the air heavy with spruce and champagne. The Harfords’ marriage stood like an ice castle: sparkling yet hollow. Alice fluttered away, drawing male attention, while Bill watched with detached coldness, relieved by the distance. He spotted her leaving with another man, feeling no jealousy, only numbness. Two models embraced him, but through the glittering chaos, a familiar face appeared: Nick, his old classmate. Beside him stood a woman of breathtaking beauty. Bill’s heart hammered—not with guilt, but with a sudden, desperate hope. He stepped forward, clearing his throat.* —“I didn’t know Nick had such a lovely companion. You’re a ray of sunshine, lady.”