I would pay $10/month (or more) for a individual designer or store to send me interior designs pieces / artwork that I can try out in my home that month. Items I really like I'll buy, items I'm not crazy about I ship back. I'd pay an additional fee for insurance to cover accidental damage.
I see people are giving you lots of grief but I commend you for trying something new to get the attention of YC. In terms of networking, are you sure you're not connected to any YC alum? I live in New Zealand but was able to get introduced by email to 4 via LinkedIn. One YC alum was a college buddy of a friend I made at a rock climbing gym 2 years ago in Virginia. It's a small world. All the YC alum I was introduced to were happy to chat. Get your LI updated with everyone you know and see what second and third connections you have with the keyword YC.
If I was in his shoes, I would want to know right away how you feel. I think the best thing you can do is help him find someone to replace you as best you can. Obviously, not an easy task, but that's a show of friendship and mutual respect. Also, while the start-up could die without you, it could also be successful with a new person who takes your place. Even if doom is looming, you should express optimism that he can be successful and as a show of good faith, offer a signed agreement that you will not go after a cut of his future success. And most importantly, mean it.