In reality, Baines has never been to Africa, is in a loveless marriage with his wife (who is also employed as the family's housekeeper), and is carrying on an affair with a young secretary, Julie. One day, when Philippe's father departs for several days, Philippe follows Baines to a cafe, where he is meeting with Julie to discuss their relationship—Julie urges Baines to separate from his wife so they can be together, but Philippe is impervious to the details of their conversation. Afterward, Baines tells Philippe that Julie is his niece, and asks that he not mention the incident to Mrs. Baines. That afternoon, Philippe is chastised by Mrs. Baines for playing on a window ledge on the staircase landing. Later, she attempts to glean information about her husband from Philippe, suspicious he is cheating on her.