City Night Summary

"City Night" is narrated from a third-person limited point of view. The story focuses on the introduction of Ellen Greenough to Nicholas Dickson and their subsequent sexual encounter. Ellen is 27; Nicholas' age is not specified, but he is probably in his mid-thirties. The primary timeline covers a single evening and is narrated after the events transpire.

Ellen has spent the previous 3 years caring for her ailing mother. After her mother dies, Ellen moves to the city, begins to study art history, wants to become an art restorer, and begins to engage in social activities. Ellen is invited to a dinner party by her friend, Tina. Tina warns Ellen that the host, Nicholas, must be guarded against but Ellen does not really understand the implication.

Nicholas deliberately seats Ellen on his side at the dinner party although there are numerous other guests...