Tinker proposed to Eve, but she turned him down. One early morning, Katey is visited by the police and must bail a drunken Eve out of jail. Katey is introduced to both old and new money, and she makes friends and alliances with both types as she ascends. She also begins her own upward climb through the social ranks, thanks to changes in employment and her group of friends. As Eve and Tinker grow closer, Katey pushes away any and all feelings for him. When Tinker calls Katey one night to watch Eve while he “goes to work,” the three are thrust back into a game of chance and choice. Eve must hang on now to ensure a place for herself in society. Because Tinker was driving, his guilt is so deep that he remains by Eve’s side, effectively ending any chance at a romantic relationship with Katey. When a horrible accident leaves Eve disfigured, the lives of Eve, Katey, and Tinker change forever. The three soon form a fast friendship which, as the old owner of one of their favorite spots says later, can’t possibly last long. Tinker is mysterious from the outset, with his gold lighter that displays his initials and crude date markings, and his mention of his brother Hank Grey, whom he believes Katey would get along with. The girls note his demeanor and clothing, instantly sizing him up as a potential windfall for them. Eve calls dibs, though it’s clear that Tinker and Katey also have a connection. That’s when Tinker Grey, a wealthy, handsome, and shy bachelor enters the bar.

Before long, they’ve spent their money on drinks. The girls are trying to beat their own path in New York, and on this night, have a measly budget between them for drinks, food, and entertainment. When Katey and Eve-best friends and roommates-visit a jazz bar on New Year’s Eve in 1937, they have no idea how this seemingly mundane act will forever change the course of their lives.

Rules of civility by amor towles