Scene 2 – The woman (Marissa) is sat at the head of a dining table opposite her husband (James). On one of the other sides sits her step-daughter (Jenny). Marissa is haughty throughout the scene, and has a sense of decadence and money about her. Eric is kind and slightly rustic in his feel. Jenny is very quiet, and almost sullen, but she is strikingly beautiful.
Marrissa: (almost purring) Did you have a delicious day today darling?
Eric: Not really, I'm worried about the people working in the factory. I feel like they deserve more money, or less hours in their working day.
Marrissa: (put out and slightly sharp) But wouldn't that mean a drop in the firms productivity and profit?
Eric: Well profit yes…but not necessarily productivity. At the end of the day if the employees are happier then they will work harder for the company and show more loyalty.
Marissa: (back to purring) But darling you'll make less money, how will we cope?
Eric (pats Marrissa's hand) We have more money now than we need. My employees happiness comes before that. (he looks over towards Jenny) Isn't that right sweetheart?
Jenny: (she looks up for the first time) Yes daddy (as she says this she smiles and her whole face becomes more beautiful)
Marrissa: (looks put out and jealously towards Jenny) Darling I've had the most wonderful idea for our dear girl.
Eric: (looks happy) Yes?
Marrissa: I think she really would benefit from being sent away/To school.
Eric: Sent away?
Marrissa: I feel she really would benefit from being with other girls her own age, and there are some excellent schools that would give her a brilliant head-start for when she is required to take over the business.
Eric: I confess I hadn't thought that far ahead.
Marrissa: Well that's what I'm here for.
Eric: Would you like that Jenny, to meet some girls your own age?
Jenny: Whatever you desire father.
Eric: What schools were you thinking about Marrissa?
Marrissa: Well I hope you won't be annoyed with me Eric, but I've sent off for a few prospectuses. (sweetly) Shall I bring them in?
Eric: (shocked) Umm…..ok then.
(Marrissa walks offstage)
Eric: Would you like that Jenny?
Jenny: You are so wise father, I leave the decision to you. I know that you will pick the right one.
(Marrissa re-enters carrying a stack of prospectuses, she drops them onto the table)
Eric: Well you have been busy. How long have you been thinking about this for?
Marrissa: (slyly) Well a few months, I only want what is best for our little one.
Eric: (picking up one of the books and looking shocked and upset) This is in England!
Marrissa: Why darling all the best educational institutes, I mean schools are. You do want whats best for Jenny don't you?
Eric: Of course. Show me which ones you favour my dear.
(Marrissa moves towards him and the lights fade out).
