At Celia St. James’s Palm Springs weekend home, Evelyn announces she intends to go on a date with singer Mick Riva. The reveal ignites Celia’s anger. Since a small article hinted at their closeness, Evelyn has refused to be seen with Celia in Los Angeles, confining their time together to private weekends. Celia, frustrated by the constant hiding, rejects the idea of either of them dating to maintain appearances.

Their argument sharpens into a debate about survival versus authenticity. Evelyn insists their careers, finances, friendships, and even freedom are at stake, citing the real risk of legal or institutional repercussions and the danger exposure would pose to Harry Cameron. Celia counters that she would sacrifice everything to live openly, but Evelyn refuses to let Celia—or herself—be destroyed by a fight they cannot win.

They reaffirm their love, with Evelyn framing her stance as protection: the world won’t extend understanding, and she won’t let Celia become a pariah. Evelyn’s pragmatism clashes with Celia’s idealism, but Evelyn remains unmoved, invoking the price she has already paid for fame and the precariousness of their position.

Evelyn then lays out a plan: she will get Mick Riva to elope with her and quickly annul the marriage. The goal is to redirect the tabloids toward labeling her impulsive or promiscuous rather than linking her to Celia. Celia, hurt but persuaded by the stakes, agrees on strict conditions—the scheme must stay quiet, end as quickly as possible, and afterward they will discuss moving in together. Evelyn accepts the terms, confident she can secure Mick’s cooperation.