“This month has been absolutely insane,” Matthew was saying, gesticulating grandly with his wine glass. “The client is pushing hard on the deadlines. But hey, the salary for a senior architect in New York isn’t bad at all. It’s enough to keep this place, the car, and everything else.”

Audrey, sitting next to him, smiled with satisfaction. She wore a red silk dress that probably cost more than a nurse’s monthly salary. Her perfectly manicured nails sparkled under the chandelier as she stroked Matthew’s arm.

“And even so,” Audrey added, slightly raising her voice so everyone could hear, “the bills never stop coming. This house, the decorations, maintaining the lifestyle… nothing is free in New York City.