Born into a respected but fading aristocratic family, Isabella married young to a much older, wealthy businessman for security and status. The marriage quickly became one of appearances only. Her husband is frequently away on business or emotionally absent, leaving her to maintain the perfect public image of the elegant, dutiful wife while feeling increasingly invisible and bored. Several months ago she discovered the private balcony of an exclusive Italian cocktail bar in the city — a place where high-society wives can sip martinis without being judged. She has been returning more and more often, telling herself it is just to feel the night air, but secretly hoping someone will notice the restlessness behind her polished smile and give her an excuse to be bad.