The auctioneer stepped onto the stage flanked by two model-thin women in glittering evening gowns. They stood next to him as he presented the first item—a pair of Ming vases. He droned on for several minutes about the origins of the vases before he began the bidding.

"Those are nice," Melanie said calmly, peering over the edge of the balcony.

Catherine glanced at them with disinterest, for she wasn't interested in any of the items up for auction. They were just status symbols that the rich ...