Going home at the end of the work day is typically something people look forward to. But not Vera Bennett. Ever since her ailing mother, Rita, returned home from hospital, that's the last place Vera wants to be, for she knows the misery that awaits her.
Rita Bennett has never been a warm-and-fuzzy mother. Affection isn't part of her vocabulary. Instead of showing her daughter love and support, Rita manipulated Vera, taunted her, and specialized in making her feel useless and unwanted. Since falling ill, however, Rita has become completely insufferable.
Sitting alone in the staff room of Wentworth Correctional Centre, Vera glances up at the clock on the wall with trepidation: 5:35 p.m. Her shift isn't up until 8 p.m., but she needs to be home by 6 p.m. to relieve Rita's part-time visiting nurse. She knows she needs to head out now to account for traffic, but she can't bring herself to leave yet.
There are few things Vera takes great pride in, and her career is one of them. As Deputy Governor of Wentworth, she's second in command. It's not easy for any woman to work her way up into a position of power, but Vera's journey was twice as difficult as she was constantly undermined by her superiors due to her mousy demeanor. Up until now, she's never let anything come between her and her work.
What troubles Vera most is the idea she's letting down the governor, Joan Ferguson. She, too, is completely dedicated to her work and she's the first governor to treat Vera like an equal. Not only does Vera admire the woman, she previously assured the governor she wouldn't let personal issues interfere with her work. Now Vera's going back on her word, which upsets her, even though Gov. Ferguson seemed understanding of her situation. The last thing Vera wants is to disappoint Gov. Ferguson.
With a sigh, Vera slouches in her chair and rests her hands on her head. She looks up at the clock once more: 5:40 p.m. Her stomach turns. It's time to go.
