Page "Death Becomes Her" Paragraph 3

After an additional seven years, Madeline continues to live well financially in Beverly Hills with Ernest, but the two are miserable in their marriage.

Madeline's career is all but over, and Ernest is an alcoholic reduced to working only as a reconstructive mortician.

Following the receipt of an invitation to a party later that evening celebrating Helen's new book, Madeline rushes to a spa where she regularly receives extensive facial treatments.

Understanding the urgency of Madeline's situation, the spa owner gives her the business card of Lisle von Rhoman, a woman who specializes in beauty and youth rejuvenation.

Madeline dismisses the spa owner's advice and returns home to prepare for the party.