To add spice to the “perfect” on the outside family, the writers decided to write the Forresters with internal problems and secrets. Eric and Stephanie’s marriage was very troubled. They weren’t sharing a bed anymore and were hardly on speaking terms with one another. There wasn’t any mentioning of any affairs, but they both had people around them wanting them. Margo Lynley, Eric’s partner in designing for Forrester creations, had her eyes on him. As Margo’s future husband Bill Spencer, had his eyes on Stephanie.
Eric and Stephanie fought mostly about their children. Kristen later wanted to leave town, but Stephanie talked her out of it and Kristen stayed in Los Angeles which pleased her father Eric. That night, Eric and Stephanie grew closer and made love.
Eric and Stephanie also disagreed about Ridge’s and Thorne’s fight over Caroline Spencer. Eric felt that Stephanie interfered too much while Stephanie didn’t see it that way. She found herself taking Ridge’s side and he didn´t like it.