He left for a ‘surprise’ business trip two days after Christmas. The man has more surprise business trips than anyone Irene has ever heard of and in this case, he was leaving Irene alone for New Year’s.
-- Narrator (Part 1)

Importance: Irene is angry with her husband, Russ, because he had to leave for a business trip over the New Year holiday. At this point, Irene does not seem to think that there is anything strange that Russ is needed for business over a holiday.

There was an accident,’ Marilyn says. ‘I’m afraid your husband is dead.
-- Marilyn Monroe (Part 1 )

Importance: It is Marilyn Monroe, Croft’s secretary, who tells Irene that Russ had died as a result of a helicopter crash. Irene is shocked when Marilyn tells her that Croft has already ordered that Russ’ body be cremated.

Rosie,’ Mick says. ‘Rosie is dead.
-- Mick (Part 1)

Importance: It is Mick, Ayer’s ex-boyfriend, who comes to give her...