What do you gain from this marriage? Why continue, when–“ ”Because that’s how I want it. I need a hostess, someone to help me entertain–“ ”To make you look respectable when all the time you have your mistresses–“ ”A man’s prerogative, my dear. It is the way of the world.” “And you would condemn us both to unhappiness, rather than obtain a divorce?” “You’re the one who is complaining. My life is fine, as it is.” After a curt nod, he left the room, slamming the door behind him. Lisa leaned back in her chair, willing the tension from her body. Elbows on her desk, she buried her face in her hands, wanting to weep. But crying would solve nothing, would not deliver her from this appalling excuse of a marriage, nor bring Owen any closer. Sitting up straight, she switched her mind to more positive thoughts. She saw her chance to go to Homestead, no matter how crazy the idea. She sensed--knew--something momentous, something crucial was about to happen there. The word was out that the vice chairman had hired Pinkerton guards to keep the mill open for non-union labor.
