A Cruel World

What if we could really get to know a group of women, their lives, their secrets, and their innermost selves? Would we be able to see if it's our thoughts, our dreams, or the flaws that define us? And are we really so different from everyone else? Don't we all just want to have a home where we can feel safe, someone that holds us and speaks of love and something that we can be proud of, that sets us all apart?

Meet Sarah, who goes through life spreading happiness with her good cheer and warm-heartedness, who is not afraid to love and love deeply. And Nicola, a strong, self-reliant woman who never lets anyone get too close because people can't hurt you if you don't give them the chance. And beautiful, well dressed, smiling Jane who wants everyone to be happy and who lives what appears to be the perfect life.

And Nicole, laughing, all-seeing Nicole, who wants to protect the ones she loves, but who also wants to keep them away, afraid that she will hurt them if they get too close. Yet another night filled with smiles, small talk, and general happiness, and just a few hours added to the thousands and thousands spent in pretend happiness. Yet another gathering for the express purpose of letting the rich stroke each other's egos and help fill each other's pockets, and me standing there, just another trophy wife, supporting my husband in his efforts to reach ever-higher on the glittering steps of social status and financial gain.