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Post by Chloe (admin) on Dec 31, 2023 14:40:32 GMT
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Dec 31, 2023 14:42:00 GMT
Wednesday 30th August 2023
Waking up in a bed in The Royal Oak Hotel, sports student Louie Renshaw blinks in the sunlight shining through a gap in the curtain. He yawns and stretches out, his hand brushing against the bicep of Jacob ‘Jake’ Howell, who snoozes beside him. Louie turns over as Jake opens his eyes and sits up in bed. “Morning handsome” greets Louie, his voice croaky. Jake turns to face him and smirks. “I thought I dreamt last night” he says. With a shrug, Louie tells Jake that his wildest dreams have come true, and the pair share a kiss.
At the Harding family’s home, patriarch David ‘Dave’ Harding is making breakfast for his grandson Theo, whom is sat at the kitchen table doing some colouring. His wife Nicola ‘Nikki’ Harding soon joins him and sighs. “Did you get Jason’s text?” she asks. Dave shakes his head. “I’ve not checked my phone yet…” “Chelsea went back into hospital in the middle of the night” Nikki reveals, “She’s having the baby.” Excitedly, Dave moves towards Nikki and kisses her. “That’s great news” he says, “Hopefully baby Harding-Bryant makes an appearance today.” “Has Jase said anything to you about what they want to call him?” Nikki asks, “He’s said nowt to me.” “Nor me. Maybe they’re keeping it as a surprise.” “Can I go home today?” Theo asks. Dave sighs. “Not yet, son. Mummy’s about to have the baby.” Excitedly squealing, Theo continues colouring in his picture. Nikki peers over at it and smiles – it is a picture of Theo, Chelsea and Jason. She looks up at Dave and the pair share a moment.
“Have you heard from your mother?” Fiona ‘Fi’ Kinsella asks her niece Chloe Hall as she joins her in the family home’s living room, referring to Fi’s sister Alison, Chloe’s mum. Chloe sighs. “Not really” she says, “She’s been busy.” “She hasn’t been answering my calls” Fi reveals, “I was beginning to worry.” “I’m sure it’s nothing” says Chloe. She sits up in the armchair she has spent the last few weeks sleeping in, and looks over at the sofa where her cousin Brady Kinsella is asleep. “He don’t half snore” giggles Chloe. Fi sighs. “Always has. Takes after his father!” Fi then offers Chloe a cup of coffee, to which Chloe insists that she will make it. Getting off the chair, Chloe moves into the kitchen and flicks the kettle on. She yawns and stretches, before opening her phone and looking at the number of missed calls from ‘Mum’. Sighing, Chloe shakes her head with a tut.
Back in the living room, Brady stirs, opening his eyes. “Alright mum?” he asks, his voice raspy. Fi smiles, taking a seat. “Sleep well?” she asks. Brady shrugs. “The sofa gets more uncomfortable by the night. Any news on the attic?” “I’ve got a builder coming round to give me a quote tomorrow morning. Hopefully it won’t be much longer until you’re able to move up there.” Chloe then returns with two cups of coffee. “Oh, sorry, Brady, I didn’t realise you were awake” Chloe says, handing Fi her coffee. Brady shakes his head. “No worries, I’m not ready for a coffee anyway.” He sits up and scratches his beard. “I need a shower.” With that, Brady leaves the room. Fi exhales. “Thanks for the coffee, Chlo” she says. Chloe just smiles.
Meanwhile, at St. Stephen’s Memorial Hospital, Chelsea Bryant is in labour, groaning in pain as she sucks on her gas and air. Her boyfriend Jason Harding stands behind her, allowing her to squeeze his hand as he feeds her words of encouragement. “You’re doing amazing, Chelsea” smiles a midwife as she peers between Chelsea’s legs. Chelsea shakes her head. “I don’t feel amazing right now, to be honest” she snaps. She lets out another cry as a surge of pain overtakes her body, squeezing down on Jason’s hand. “Alright Chels, don’t completely cut off circulation babe!” Jason laughs through the pain. Chelsea just shoots him a glare, and Jase holds his spare hand up. “You squeeze away babe, don’t mind me” he backtracks. The midwife chuckles at Jase’s response before telling Chelsea that she’s quite dilated, but the baby isn’t crowning. “I reckon it'll be a few more hours before he makes an appearance” she sighs. Chelsea whines as she turns to face Jason. “I hate you for doing this to me” she laments. “It takes two, Chels!” Jason reminds her. Chelsea nods. “I know. I hate myself, too. Ooooooh!” She sucks on the gas and air, before leaning her head back and letting out a pained cry.
“Nice shower?” asks Jake as a wet Louie joins him in the bedroom, a towel wrapped around his waist. Louie nods. “Would’ve been better if you’d joined me” he winks. With a smirk on his face, Jake tells Louie that he’s a bit worn out. “We did go at it twice last night.” “You’ve rested since” Louie smirks. He grabs a spare towel and rubs his wet, tousled hair. Jake watches as he turns away and begins to get dry. “We should do this again” Jake says. Louie nods. “I’d really like that… George.” “It’s my middle name” Jake laughs, “I didn’t just completely make it up.” “Oh that’s alright then(!)” winks Louie sarcastically. Jake picks up a pillow and throws it at him, causing Louie to drop his towel. “Now look what you’ve done” smirks Louie. Jake shrugs, moving down the bed. “What a shame…”
The pair are about to kiss, but Jake’s phone begins to ring. Sighing, he reaches out for it. “It’s my dad” he sighs. Louie tilts his head. “Where does he think you are?” “Staying at a mate’s in Leamington. But I’m big enough and ugly enough to go out without his permission, Louie” Jake laughs. “You still live at home with daddy… you’re hardly independent!” “We aren’t all clever enough to go to uni” Jake says, “Besides, you live in student accommodation… that’s barely living independently!” Jake silences his phone before climbing out of bed and grabbing his boxers. He turns to face Louie. “I’d better get going… I have work at 4. But maybe I can take your number?” “Or you could just accept my Facebook request…” Louie suggests. Tilting his head, Jake smirks. “Next you’ll be asking me to go Facebook official!” he winks. Louie laughs.
Meanwhile, Nikki is strolling around the park with Dave, watching Theo play on the slide. She sighs, breathing in the late summer air. “It’s a beautiful day” she comments, “Would be lovely if the baby was born on a nice day.” “I don’t think he’s going to care what the weather was like on the day he was born” Dave chuckles. Nikki tuts. “You know what I mean! It’d just be symbolic. New life, on a nice day. It’s something my mam would love.” “Have we heard from Bev recently?” Dave asks. Nikki shakes her head. “No doubt she’ll pop up to say hi when the baby’s born. She likes a family occasion does our mam.” She then turns to Dave. “I don’t s’pose you’ve contacted the bank?” “Nikki…” Dave warns, “Drop it, please.” “I can’t just drop it, David! It’s 50k!” “It’s just a mistake!” argues Dave, “And it’s my money, not yours, so you don’t need to worry about it!”
“If only it was that easy” Nikki sighs, “What happened to ‘what’s mine is yours’, eh? It’s just a lot… Brady Kinsella hanging around, missing money, a new baby – I just want things to be easy!” “Just trust me” Dave insists, “As soon as this baby’s here, I’ll be on the blower to the bank, alright?” With a sigh, Nikki concedes, calling out to Theo to be careful as he nearly falls off the climbing frame. She moves towards her grandson, but Dave hangs back, pulling his phone out of his pocket. He quickly types a message, telling somebody that he needs to see them.
Back at the Kinsella home, Chloe is pottering about in the kitchen, making a cup of tea. Her phone buzzes, and she looks down at it to see a text. Simultaneously, Brady passes through, and his phone also buzzes. He looks down at it to also see a text. “I’m going out” Fi announces as she comes into the kitchen, looking down at her phone, “Nancy’s just text so I’m meeting her and Martha at The Crown.” “Nice little ladies’ lunch?” says Chloe. Fi nods. “My friend Martha is having a difficult time right now. She won’t say what with, but… we’re just going to cheer her up.” “And you’re taking it easy, mum?” Brady asks, “You need to remember you’re ill…” “I can hardly forget, Brady!” Fi replies, “I’ve got no hair, I’m weak and I go for chemo every 4 weeks.”
“Speaking of which, auntie Fi, I was thinking we could go into Birmingham at the weekend, maybe go wig shopping?” “I don’t need a wig” insists Fi, “I’m happy with my scarf.” “Oh come on! It’ll help build your confidence back up! You’re gorgeous as you are, but there’s nothing like a lovely new do to really get you feeling good.” “It could be good to have a look, mum” Brady suggests. Fi purses her lips. “I made the decision when it first started falling out that the next time I had hair, it would be my own. Not some fake barnet I’ve bought from a shop, okay?” She then grabs her handbag. “I’m going to the pub… I’ll see yous later.” As Fi leaves, Brady and Chloe look at each other and sigh. “I’d best be off too” Brady says, “Places to go, people to see.” With that, he picks up his jacket and follows Fi, leaving Chloe alone.
Meanwhile, Louie climbs out of an Uber on Oakford Avenue. He approaches Zarah’s house, where he is currently staying, and lets himself in through the front door. His friend Kaiyen Chadha gets up from the sofa and scoffs. “Dirty stop out!” Kaiyen comments. Louie blushes. “Don’t start” he begs. “Where were you? I was worried…” “You knew I was going to meet a guy” Louie says. Nodding, Kaiyen asks if George was who he said he was. Louie titters. “Not exactly!” “I knew it! Was he some dodgy middle-aged man? Are you okay?” “Leave him alone, Kai” giggles Kaiyen’s aunt Zarah Mistry as she enters the room, “He’s fine. Did you have a good night, Louie?” “It was fun, thanks” smiles Louie. “I’m just concerned” Kaiyen defends himself, “You don’t usually stay out.” “I literally stayed out a few weeks back.” He is referring to when he had sex with another man, secretly older gym owner Conor Kinsella, a few weeks ago. “Just contact me in future, yeah? Let me know you’re okay…” “I don’t need to do that, Kai” Louie argues, “I’m a grown man. You ain’t my dad.”
With a nod, Kaiyen holds his hand up. “I’m sorry. I’m just… you’re my mate. I want you to be safe.” “I’m always safe. I know what I’m doing.” Louie softens. “And, er… as it turns out, ‘George’ was that guy I met in a club a few weeks back, Jake. You know the one I snogged? Turns out, George is his middle name… and we finally went a bit further than a cheeky snog!” With a surprised laugh, Kaiyen shakes his head. “Did you find out why he ran off?” he asks. “He’s closeted and his dad’s a homophobe. Standard, really.” “Are you seeing him again?” Zarah asks. Louie shrugs. “Maybe.” His phone then buzzes, and he looks down to see that he has a Facebook notification – Jake has accepted his friend request. Louie smirks. In The Rose and Crown, Fi joins her friends Martha Dobbs and Nancy Cullen at a table. Nancy smiles as she tells Fi that she is looking well. “Isn’t she, Martha?” “Hm? Oh, yeah.” “Thanks for the enthusiasm, Martha” chuckles Fi, “I’ve got my last round of chemo next week. Hopefully it’s good news after that…” “I’m sure it will be” Nancy offers. She then points towards the Diet Coke she has bought Fi. Fi thanks her, taking a sip, before asking Martha how she is feeling. “Great” Martha forces a smile, “Never better.” “Still refusing to say what’s going on?” Fi asks. Nancy nods. “I’ve told you both, it’s nothing” insists Martha, “I’m just not feeling chatty the last few weeks.” “You know you can tell us anything, Martha?” Fi offers, squeezing Martha’s hand. Fighting back tears, Martha just nods. “Thank you, honestly, but… but it’s okay.” Martha then takes a sip of her drink and sighs. “I need the bathroom.” She gets up and leaves. Nancy sighs as she watches her go. “Something’s bothering her” Fi whispers, “I thought it was just the usual summer lull she goes through, but… it’s worse this time. “Even taking her to the church didn’t help.” “God isn’t for everyone, Nance” laughs Fi, “God knows I’d love to be able to pray my troubles away right now.” “He helps me” says Nancy, “He always has.” “What Martha needs is a distraction” suggests Fi, “A proper one.” Wistfully staring over at the bar, Fi wracks her brains.
Meanwhile, Dave is standing on Ashbury Common with his Labrador, Marley. He looks around the common, a large green area, before turning around and walking into the woods that neighbour it. Hidden away behind a tree, Dave sighs and pulls his phone out. He is about to send a text when he hears a voice. “Make this quick” warns Chloe as she joins her secret father in the woods. She peers down at Marley and sighs. “Why do you bring that dog with you? Scared I’m going to do you in?” she says, half-joking. Dave frowns. “No, it gives me an excuse to leave the house without needing to come up with a reason for why I’m away so long” he explains. With a tut, Chloe shakes her head. “Still lying to your wife like it’s easy, all these years later.” Dave takes a deep breath.
“So, what do you want?” Chloe asks. “I need that money back” he insists, “Nikki’s noticed it’s gone, and it was stupid of me to ever give it to you. Especially given you’re not going to disappear.” “Sorry, it’s too late” Chloe tells him, “The money’s mine.” “Chloe…” “I’m using some of it to get a flat. Looking at a nice apartment in the block by the pub. Might even be able to see your gaff from my living room window…” “Can you please just be serious?” Dave begs, “My life, my marriage, depends on this. My son’s about to have a baby… I need that money.” “You didn’t have any qualms about throwing it at me when you thought it’d buy my silence, though, did you?” Chloe snaps. “Please, Chloe…” Dave whispers, “I’m sorry I’ve not been there for you, but… but don’t ruin my life. Please.” Chloe smirks.
Louie is sitting on his bed in Zarah’s spare room, texting Jake with a smile on his face. He smirks as he receives a flirtatious text from Jake, but he is soon interrupted by Kaiyen, who enters the room with a beer. He hands it to Louie. “Thought we could have a beer together?” Kaiyen suggests. Louie cocks his head. “What’s this in honour of?” he smirks. Kaiyen shrugs. “Just want a drink with my mate?” “You mean your love life is so dry, you want details on mine” smirks Louie. Kaiyen sighs. “You know me, I ain’t really interested in having a love life right now.” “You’re 19, Kai – you should be out there living, sleeping round and having fun!” “I’m not as confident as you” Kaiyen says, “I’m not… I’m not able to do what you do. I mean, how many lads have you slept with?” “Erm… quite a few!” laughs Louie. Kaiyen nods. “Exactly. Compare that to me, we’re the same age and I’m not even past 5 girls. We’re just different guys.” “You just need to get into a groove. How about we head out at the weekend, I’ll be your wingman?” “I’d rather just have a quiet beer in” laughs Kaiyen. Rolling his eyes, Louie tells Kaiyen that he’ll never meet girls like this. He watches as Kaiyen takes a seat on his own bed, before taking a swig of his beer. “Fine, but when we restart uni… I’m gonna find you a girlfriend” Louie promises. Kaiyen laughs.
“You’re awfully quiet, which usually means you’re plotting something” notes Martha with a raised eyebrow as she and her friends Nancy and Fi sit in the pub. Fi shakes her head. “Just thinking” she promises, her lips twisting into a grin. Martha sighs. “I want you both to stop worrying about me, honestly. You know what I’m like… I always get a bit of a summer depression!” “Never as bad as this year though, Martha” Nancy interjects. “So it’s been a bit worse this year! I’ll get over it, I always do…” “Is it the wedding?” Fi pipes up. Martha looks at her and shakes her head. “No.” “Cos I know planning a wedding is stressful, but I’m sure Gareth won’t mind if…” – “It’s not the wedding.” Martha hesitates, “It isn’t anything. It’s just… maybe it’s the weather. Too hot to be happy!” “How about a hen party?” Fi pipes up. Martha looks taken aback. “Sorry?” “I know you’ve not set a date yet, and I know you said you were ‘too old’ for a hen party, but… it gives us something to do, Martha, a reason to lift your spirits! And we can invite all your old friends…” “I don’t want it, Fi” gently says Martha. “Come on, Martha, think about it…” “I said no!” Martha snaps. She quickly softens. “I’m not in the mood.” Fi and Nancy look at each other, surprised by their friend’s outburst.
“And what about my life?” Chloe asks as she ponders Dave’s words, “You didn’t care about ruining my life when you let me believe that arsehole was my father!” “I didn’t choose for him to be your father” Dave argues, “You should be angry at your mum!” “Oh, I am” Chloe snarls, “I’m angry at both of yous. Having an affair behind your partners’ backs… Marcus may be a terrible father and an awful man, but he didn’t deserve to be cheated on. And Nikki? Does she deserve a cheat for a husband?” “I’m not a cheat” Dave vows, “Not anymore. I made a mistake a quarter of a century ago but I’ve changed. I’ve repented.” “You haven’t even confessed! Even now, you’re trying to run from it!” “Because it would tear my family apart” defends Dave, “It’d ruin us all and my son is about to have a baby!” “I’m so sick of hearing about this baby” Chloe snarls, “I’m sick of hearing about ‘your boys’. You never cared about your daughter.” “You have a family, Chloe!” Dave is close to tears, “You have your mum, your dad. Kieran, and your little sister…” “But they are just part of the puzzle! I always knew I was different, not like Kieran or Izzie, but… but I never knew why. And then mum, she told me the truth. You know, it took an argument for it all to come out… she only told me to throw it in my face.”
“I’m sorry she did that” Dave softens, “But I had no part in it. I never even knew you existed until your mum contacted me when you were a teenager, told me she had a daughter and you were mine. By that point, Marcus was your dad…” “I would have adapted to the change, anything is better than Marcus” whispers Chloe, “But the truth is, you didn’t want me. Well, your sons and your wife ain’t going to want you when they find out that their whole lives, you’ve been lying to them. Cos I’m going to tell them, dad. I’m going to tell them everything.” Chloe turns on her heels. Reaching out to grab her arm, Dave begs Chloe to stop, but Chloe pushes him away. Dave stumbles backwards, nearly tripping over the dog. Chloe shakes her head. “Don’t come anywhere near me. You’re dead to me” she hisses. Watching as Chloe rushes off, Dave calls out her name, but she is gone, out of sight. He shakes his head, leaning back against a tree, as a surge of pain washes over him. Dave feels his hands becoming clammy, his breathing becoming laboured and hard, as his arm begins to seize. He clutches his left arm, gasping for help, as he falls to the floor: Chloe nowhere to be seen.
In the hospital, Chelsea is in the throes of labour. She lets out a long, anguished scream as the midwife declares that she just needs to do one more push. Chelsea shakes her head. “I can’t do it” she sobs, looking Jason in the eye. Jason squeezes her hand. “Yes you can” he tells her, “You’re the strongest woman I know.” “Something’s wrong… I can feel it… it’s not right…” Letting out another shout, Chelsea grinds her teeth, and the midwife tells her to keep pushing: Jason watches in marvel as the sound of crying fills the room. A sweaty, pained Chelsea gasps as she rolls her head back, gasping for air, while midwives tend to the small baby in their arms. “You did it” Jason tells her, pulling Chelsea close to him and kissing her forehead. The lead midwife turns to Chelsea and Jason, and smiles. “Congratulations” she says, “You have a little boy.” Chelsea lets out a relieved sigh.
In the Harding household, Nikki and her teen son Noah Harding have settled down for dinner with Theo. Nikki sighs as she looks at Dave’s empty seat. “Where’s your father got to with that bloody dog?” she whispers, shaking her head with a tut. Putting his fork down, Noah reaches for his phone. “I’ll call him, see how long he’ll be” Noah offers, but the pair are distracted when Nikki’s own phone rings. She gasps. “It’s Jase” she whispers, picking the phone up. “Hello?” There is a moment’s pause, before Nikki looks Noah in the eyes and gasps again. “Chelsea’s had the baby” she excitedly says. Noah grins. “That’s great, mum. Tell Jason, congratulations.” “Give Chelsea our love, won’t you? From all of us” Nikki says into the phone. She then looks at Noah. “Go out in the hallway, ring your dad and tell him Chelsea’s given birth. He’ll be gutted he’s missed the call.” Noah does as he is told, rushing out of the room, as Theo digs into his fish fingers and chips. In the hallway, Noah puts his phone to his ear.
Back in the woods, Dave’s phone lies on the floor, ringing out. Noah is calling him. His ringtone blares, but there is no response: the phone just sits by a tree branch. Nearby, Dave is on the ground, weak, clutching his arm and unable to breathe. Running across the common, Marley’s lead trails behind him. Brady is passing by the common and frowns as he sees Marley approaching. “Hey you!” Brady laughs as Marley begins barking at him, nudging him with his nose, “Where’s your mum and dad, eh? Where’s Dave and Nikki?” Marley continues barking, before running off, back in the woods. Frowning, Brady follows. He makes his way after Marley, pushing his way through the trees, before coming into a clearing, where Marley is standing, barking.
Brady peers down the hill and sees Dave lying there, unconscious. “Oh sh*t” gasps Brady, darting down the hill. He pulls his phone from his pocket and quickly dials 999. “Ambulance, please” Brady requests, kneeling down beside Dave and checking his pulse. “The woods by Ashbury Common. I’m down a hill, I’ve found my neighbour… he’s not breathing, there’s no pulse. Please, send someone… quick.” Brady checks Dave’s pulse again, before putting the phone onto speakerphone and dropping it next to him. He begins CPR, tears forming in his eyes. “Come on, Dave, hang in there” Brady begs, desperately performing CPR on Dave. “He’s got no pulse” Brady says into the phone, “I think… I think he's dead.” Continuing the CPR, Brady begs for Dave to respond, but he is lifeless, and soon, Brady realises this his attempts are futile, though he continues trying…
Regular Cast: Brady Kinsella: Danny Walters Chelsea Bryant: Jessica Plummer Chloe Hall: Charlotte Jordan David “Dave” Harding: David Kennedy Jason Harding: Adam Woodward Kaiyen Chadha: Adam Hussain Louie Renshaw: Noah Valentine Nicola “Nikki” Harding: Alex Fletcher Noah Harding: Charlie Behan Dr Zarah Mistry: Bhavna Limbachia
Recurring Cast: Fiona “Fi” Kinsella: Deena Payne Jacob “Jake” Howell: Aedan Duckworth Marley: Uncredited (Dog) Martha Dobbs: Lin Blakley Nancy Cullen: Cathy Shipton Theodore “Theo” Harding: Uncredited
• ORIGINAL PUBLICATION: 2023.09.11
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Dec 31, 2023 14:42:24 GMT
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Dec 31, 2023 14:43:14 GMT
Saturday 2nd September 2023 WARNING: Contains scenes of drug use and a scene of a mild sexual nature
The episode opens with a quiet, aerial shot of Oakford Avenue. The Harding family home is sombre: outside on the garden wall are a collection of bouquets of flowers. Inside, matriarch Nicola ‘Nikki’ Harding is sitting in silence, staring at the blank television screen. It has been several days since the death of her husband, Dave Harding, and the news still hasn’t fully sunk in yet. Nikki thinks back to the moment she received the awful news: that warm evening, on which her son Jason’s girlfriend Chelsea gave birth to their newborn baby boy. Noah had struggled to get hold of his dad, Dave, to tell him the news, so he had gone out to look for him in the pub, while Nikki remained at home with grandson Theo, in case Dave came back.
In a flashback, Nikki nervously but excitedly paced back and forth in the kitchen, her finger on her chin. “Where’s grandad?” her grandson Theo Harding asked as he entered with two of his toy cars. “Probably sat outside the pub with the dog, having a cheeky pint” Nikki laughed, aware that Theo wouldn’t properly understand what she was talking about. The doorbell rang, and Nikki laughed. “This is probably him now, half-cut, not realising the door’s unlocked.” She walked through the hallway, approaching the door, calling out, “The door’s unlocked, David…” Swinging the door open, Nikki was shocked by the sight of two police officers: a woman, and her neighbour, PC Ethan Bowers. “Mrs Harding?” The female asked, and Nikki nodded. “Yes?” “My name is PC Nixon. This is my colleague, PC Bowers. Can we come in?” Frowning, Nikki scanned Jada's badge before she moved aside, letting the police officers in. Some time passed, and in the kitchen, Ethan was sitting with Theo, playing with him and his toy cars, keeping him company. In the living room, PC Jada Nixon sighed as she watched Nikki pick up the cup of tea Ethan had made her. “What is this?” Nikki asked, her concern evident in her voice. Jada looked up at the family photo on the mantelpiece. “I’m afraid I have some bad news” she said, her voice calm but tinged with sadness. Nikki nodded. “Right.” “We received a call a short while ago, by a concerned passer-by on Ashbury Common. Your husband, David Harding, was discovered in a bad way.” Nikki’s eyes filled with tears. “What…?”
“I’m afraid to say that they did all we could, the ambulance team got there as soon as they could, but it wasn’t enough. Your husband died earlier this evening, Mrs Harding.” Letting out an anguished half-scream, half-gasp, Nikki clasped her hands around her mouth. “No” she sobbed, shaking her head, “No, you’ve got it wrong.” “I’m really sorry, Mrs Harding…” “No… no!” Nikki’s pained screams merge into the sound of her teenage son Noah Harding trying to gain her attention. “Mum?” Noah says louder this time, moving towards her. Nikki looks up at him, her eyes full of tears. “Y… yeah?” “There’s somebody here to see you” Noah says. Shaking her head, Nikki looks away. “Get rid of them” she tells her son. Noah sighs. “That’ll be a little bit difficult…” Making her presence known, Beverley ‘Bev’ Daniels walks into the room. “Darling” Nikki’s mother Bev sighs as she looks at her dishevelled daughter. Nikki looks up at Bev and gasps. “Mam” she sighs, standing up. She rushes towards her mother, pulling her into a tight hug, and as Bev holds her daughter, Nikki begins to sob…
In the flat above Drive Buy Supermarket, recent mum-of-two Chelsea Bryant sighs as she tends to her baby son, just a few days old. Putting him down in his cot to sleep, Chelsea smiles at her bundle of joy: but the moment is tainted by the fact that on the day he was born, her fiancé Jason lost his father. Chelsea moves to the living room, where her boyfriend Jason Harding is throwing himself into working out, doing press-ups on the living room floor. Chelsea sighs. “Come and sit down, Jase” Chelsea pushes, taking a seat on the sofa. Jason shakes his head. “Nah, I’m okay, thanks” he says, doing another push-up. Chelsea lets out a deep sigh. “You’ve barely said two words since we got back from the hospital” she whispers. Jason nods. “You can’t expect me to be super chatty when my dad’s just died, Chels” Jason responds. He softens, shaking his head. “I’m sorry, I… I’m just in a weird place right now.” “That’s understandable” she says, “I was exactly the same when my auntie Lisa died.” Chelsea is referring to her mother’s sister, who raised her from childhood until Chelsea was 16, when she died. Jason takes a seat beside Chelsea. “How did you do it?” he asks gently, “How did you… how did you cope, knowing you’d never see her again?”
“She wasn’t my mother” Chelsea reminds her boyfriend. “No, but she was as good as – she raised you.” Chelsea feels a tear running down her cheek. “I… I don’t know how I got through it. I guess I didn’t, not until… not until I had Theo. Not until I had a reason to get up each day. But you… you’ve got reasons. Your mum, Noah… our boys.” “Mum hasn’t even met him” Jason says sadly, “She’s not met Beau.” Chelsea smiles at the mention of their son’s name – Beau Harding. She nods. “She will. It’s going to be a lot for her… every birthday he celebrates, will be another year without your dad. That’s going to be difficult.” “It’s not his fault, though” Jason argues, “She shouldn’t… she’s not even asked how he is!” “She’s just lost her husband, Jase, she’s allowed to grieve. So are you… he was your dad.” “But now I’m a dad again” whispers Jason, “The world doesn’t stop for me, to allow me to wallow. I just have to get on with it.” Standing up, Jason grabs his phone. “I’m going for a run. If Beau wakes up… call me.” With that, Jason leaves, as Chelsea lets him go.
Meanwhile, over at the Kinsellas' home, Fiona ‘Fi’ Kinsella is sat with her daughter-in-law Emma Kinsella and Emma’s husband, Fi’s son, Ronan Kinsella. “I passed the Hardings’ earlier” Ronan says softly, “The flowers for Dave have been replaced.” “That’s nice” Emma responds, unsure how to react. Ronan nods. “I know our families had their issues, but he was a good man. I still can’t believe it…” “I feel like I need to pop over to see Nikki” Fi whispers, “Take her and Noah some food.” “I’m not sure that’s a good idea, Fi” Emma urges, “You’ve hardly seen eye-to-eye recently. I think she’d appreciate some space.” “Our families may have fallen out, but we were close once… our boys were close. It’d be remiss of me not to offer my condolences.” “Mum, no” Ronan asserts, “It’s not appropriate.” The trio are then joined by Fi’s niece Chloe Hall. “Everything okay love?” Fi asks, “You’ve been quiet the last few days.” “Fine” Chloe whispers. She is clearly rattled. Emma sighs. “Fancy coming with me for a walk? I need a few bits from Tesco’s…” “I’m okay thanks, Em” Chloe forces a smile, “I’m actually just heading out. Going to view a flat, so…” With that, Chloe exits through the back door.
Ronan, Emma and Fi all exchange glances. Chloe is about to leave through the back gate when she notices her cousin Brady Kinsella sitting in the garden, smoking a cigarette. Chloe sighs. “You alright Brades?” she offers. Brady looks up at her and takes a long, drawn out drag. “Never been better” he mutters. Chloe sighs, moving towards him. “I know it’s hard” she whispers, taking a seat, “It must’ve been awful, finding him there like that… but it’s not your fault. You did all you could.” “I didn’t do enough” Brady whispers, “He still died.” “The paramedic said that it was already too late when you found him… there’s nothing you could have done.” “All I keep thinking is… what if I caused this, Chlo? What if me coming back…” Brady falters, “I know his heart was dodgy, they found that out after the robbery, but… but what if me coming back brought it all up again. Dragged up old memories. What if he was so scared I was gonna do something to him, it put pressure on his heart and that’s why he…”
“Don’t be silly!” Chloe argues, “Like you said, he had a dodgy ticker… you’ve barely seen him. You’ve kept your distance, you’ve done all you can to make that whole family feel safe and comfortable. Please, Brady, don’t blame yourself.” Brady looks at Chloe. “When did you get so wise, eh?” he laughs, sniffing back tears. Chloe shrugs. “When you’ve been through the things I’ve been through… look, I’ve gotta go, but… promise me you won’t sit here, ruminating on this?” she asks. Chloe holds her pinky out and for a moment, Brady hesitates, before laughing and linking pinkies. “Promise.” Chloe pulls her cousin into a hug before getting up and leaving. Once she is gone, Brady sighs, stubbing the cigarette out. His phone buzzes, and he looks down at a text from ‘B’. “Can’t stop thinking about the other night… need to talk to you.” Shaking his head, Brady slams his phone down onto the chair.
“How is Jason?” asks pub landlord Paul Gordon as he serves police officer Ethan, Jason’s mate, in The Rose and Crown. Ethan sighs. “Barely said two words to me” Ethan admits, “I’ve tried to be there for him, but he’s shutting me out.” “It’s awful” Paul sighs, “I only spoke to Dave a few hours before he... y’know. I can’t believe he’s gone.” “Telling Nikki was the hardest moment of my career” Ethan sighs, “Its always hard delivering news like that, but to someone you know? My superiors told me to sit it out but I felt like I owed it to Nikki, to Dave, to Jase, to be there when they found out.” “You did good, kid” Paul assures him, “You did good.” Ethan and Paul share a smile.
“I came as soon as I could, but the plane from Turkey was delayed, and…” Bev places a cup of tea down in front of her daughter, Nikki, and shakes her head, “I’m so sorry, love. Here, there’s summat extra in that brew… it’ll help you sleep tonight.” “I don’t want it, mam” Nikki whispers, “I just want my husband back.” Nikki’s voice breaks. Bev nods. “I know, darling, I know” she comforts her daughter, taking a seat beside her. “I haven’t even been to see Jason and Chelsea” Nikki sobs, “My grandson was born four days ago and I’ve not met him. They’ve been home for three days… I can’t bring myself to do it.” “How about we go together?” Bev offers. Nikki shakes her head. “I can’t…” “You can. You need to, Nicola” Bev warns, “I know it’s hard, but you can’t hide away. You need to face the world.” “I can’t leave the house, knowing Dave’s killer is living across the road!” Shocked, Bev gasps. “Have the police said it was murder?” she whispers. Nikki shakes her head. “Not exactly. They reckon it was a heart attack, but... but I know who caused it. Brady Kinsella. He killed my husband.”
Jogging through the streets of Ashbury, Jason is trying to forget about the last few days. Desperately wishing he could just be happy and relish in being a dad, he cannot push the thought of his own father from his mind. He is so lost in his thoughts, music blaring through his earphones, that he crosses the road without looking, almost being mowed down by a passing car. “Watch it!” shouts the driver, hanging out of the window of the car: it is Rob Morgan. He softens as he recognises Jason. “Jase” he whispers. Jase just tuts, putting his earphones back in and carrying on his run as Rob sighs.
Meanwhile, in a chicken shop on Marwood Road, Noah is sat picking at a box of now cold chips. His friend Amber Morgan sighs as she watches him. “You done, Noah?” she asks softly. Noah looks up from his daydream. “Eh?” “You’ve been pushing those fries around for the best part of 10 minutes... do you wanna head home?” “I can’t, not really” Noah insists, “I don’t wanna interrupt. My nan’s at mine with my mum, so...” “Well do you want to come back to mine? Dylan is at Curtis’, so no chance of bumping into him, at least not for a few hours!” “Do you mind?” Noah asks. Amber shakes her head. “Course not. Beats sitting in here, where everyone is looking. They’re not even looking at me and it’s bothering me. Come on.” Standing up, Amber reaches out for Noah’s hand.
“Penny for your thoughts?” offers Sophia Morgan as she finds Chloe sitting on a bench on Marwood Road. Chloe frowns and looks up at her. “Sorry?” “Sorry, I just saw you looking… glum. Thought I’d see if you were okay. You’re Fi Kinsella’s niece, right?” Chloe nods. “I’m Sophia, my family live across the road. My friend Elyse kinda went off at you the other day!” Sophia laughs. Chloe giggles. “I remember. She got over herself yet?” “Yeah, I reckon so” Sophia muses. She then takes a seat beside Chloe. “I used to sit here, moping, when I had trouble. Usually boy trouble, but… is that the case for you?” “It’s a guy, but it’s not a boy” Chloe whispers. Sophia frowns. “Family?” she offers. Chloe nods. “I… problems with my dad. And my mum, really. Separately, though.” “If I can give you some advice” Sophia begins, the Harding family on her mind, “It’s to forgive them. Before it’s too late. Family… it’s important. You never know how long you’ve got left with them.” Chloe feels tears trickling down her face. “That’s the problem” she whispers, before sobering and wiping her tears away. “Thanks, Sophia, but I’ve gotta head off. Cheers for the chat.” With that, Chloe leaves, as a bemused Sophia watches her go. “Glad to be of service!” she calls out.
At the Harding home, Bev is reeling after Nikki has told her that Dave was murdered. “Don’t be so silly, Nicola” Bev says, shaking her head, “He was on his own…” “He’d been under so much stress” Nikki reveals, standing up and moving towards the sink, “All because Brady came back. I knew it would be too much for him. He should never have been allowed to come back to the place where we live…” “But from what I’ve heard, he’s just a kid who made a mistake. Was he taunting Dave?” “Not exactly, but…” “So what evidence do you have to say he caused the heart attack? Cos you can’t just make baseless accusations!” Bev argues, “I’m not saying you’re wrong – I’m not – but I’m saying that you can’t go around, saying these things, without proof. Do you have proof?” “No…” “Then you need to be careful with what you’re saying.” Bev stands up. “Now come on… we’ve got a baby to meet.” “I can’t, mam.” “You can, and you must.” Bev looks her daughter in the eye. “Now put on a bit of lippy, slap on a smile, and let’s go and meet your grandson. It’s hard, but we have to push… life doesn’t slow down for us just because something awful has happened, okay?” With tears in her eyes, Nikki nods. Continuing his run, Jason is sweaty and jogs down Woodside Lane. He sighs as he sees Brady approaching. He is about to cross the road, but Brady calls out to him. “Jase” Brady calls. Jason sighs, pulling his earphones out. “I don’t wanna talk to you” Jason declares. “Please, Jase… we were best mates. We’ve been through a lot.” “I’ve just lost my dad, Brady. I don’t have time for this.” “I know, that’s why I wanted to say… I’m sorry. I did all that I could.” Jason’s eyes bulge. “Eh?” “When I found your dad… I tried to save him.” “You found him?” Jason feels his fists clenching. Brady nods sheepishly. “I… did you not know?” “No! What… you… you were there?” “No, I wasn’t, I just… I was walking past the common and the dog came running up to me, barking. I followed him and… and I found your dad. I didn’t… he was already gone when I got there. I’ve already been questioned by the police and they released me with no further questions.” “You caused this!” Jason slams. He grabs Brady by the scruff of his neck and slams him against a wall, “This wouldn’t have happened if you didn’t come back here!” “You can’t blame this on me! I’ve never had anything but absolute respect for your dad!” “And yet you still took things too far and attacked him!” “You know full well, that wasn’t the plan” Brady snarls, “Don’t act like you’re innocent in all of this. Just remember the secrets I’m keeping for you… all of them.” Jason takes a step back. “Keep away from me and my family” Jason warns. He rushes off, Brady watching as he leaves.
Meanwhile, in Jason and Chelsea’s flat, Chelsea lets Bev and Nikki in, surprised to see them. “Jason didn’t say you were visiting town, Bev” Chelsea says softly, putting away the packet of nappies she has left out. Bev shoots her a soft smile. “It was very last-minute, but I couldn’t stay away. Not after Dave…” Bev looks at Nikki, who winces at the mention of her late husband’s name. Chelsea nods. “I really am sorry, Nikki. I didn’t want to pop round with the baby, not… it didn’t feel right.” “Thank you” Nikki whispers. She shuffles her feet. “I’m sorry for not coming to see him. I should’ve come.” “It’s completely understandable.” Chelsea then flicks the kettle on. “Tea, anyone?” “Milk, two sugars please, love.” Bev takes a seat at the breakfast bar.
“Where is the little mite then?” “He’s down for a nap, but I can wake him if you want…” “Maybe we can just have a look at him while he sleeps?” Nikki suggests, “I don’t want to cause you any stress, having to get him back to sleep.” “That’s fine. Do you want to go through to the room, or…?” “Come on, Nik” Bev says, getting up and heading to Jason and Chelsea’s bedroom. She pushes open the door gently and smiles as she sees the young boy fast asleep in his cot. Nikki joins her lets out a choked-up gasp as she sees her grandson for the first time. “He’s perfect” Bev tells Nikki, who just nods, tears streaming down her face: unable to find the words. Pulling her daughter into a hug, Bev holds Nikki. Chelsea appears and sighs. “His name’s Beau” she whispers. “That’s lovely” Nikki insists. “And I hope you don’t mind, but we were thinking… we were going to do it anyway, but… Beau David Harding?” Nikki looks into Chelsea’s eyes and nods, fresh tears running down her cheeks. “It’s perfect.”
Sitting in Amber’s room, Amber and Noah are silently watching a sitcom. Amber looks over at Noah and sees him quietly crying: reaching out, she supportively takes his hand and squeezes it. Noah looks her in the eyes. “Sorry” he apologises, wiping his eyes, “I’m being a wuss.” “You’ve just lost your dad, Noah” Amber scoffs, “You’re allowed to cry!” “I’m a lad, though… I shouldn’t be crying.” “What a load of crap!” Amber responds with a tut, “You’ve never been into all that toxic masculinity stuff… don’t start now.” Amber grabs a box of tissues from her bedside cabinet and hands them to Noah. She then pauses the TV. “Do you want to talk?” she offers. Noah shrugs his shoulders. “What’s there to talk about?” he asks, “My dad’s dead… nothing I can say or do to bring him back.” “It’s only been a few days… you’re probably still processing it.” “I just don’t see a need to dwell on it. I can’t change it. Like yeah, I get sad, but then I think… it’s a waste of time. Cos what good is it doing?” “Don’t lock away your feelings, Noah” Amber insists, “Let them out. Talk to us, your friends. Your family.”
“Mum’s a mess” Noah says, “I can’t tell her anything. She’s not left the house since she found out… I had to call my nan, you know. I didn’t know who else to call… Jase can’t get through to her, she’s not been to see the new baby.” “Your nan will help. She’s a monster, that woman!” Amber laughs. Noah lets out a small laugh as well. “Yeah. She is. God, Dad hated her! Called her the ‘demon mother-in-law’. She’s good, though. A good mum. A good nan. A good woman. Just like dad… he was a good man. He didn’t deserve it.” “They never do” sighs Amber, “All these wrong’un languishing in prison and then the innocent ones, the good ones… they’re taken too soon.” “Look at us, sounding like a bunch of old people” laughs Noah. “Funny what grief does, eh?” Amber winks, nudging Noah’s arm. Noah’s phone buzzes, and he looks down at it to see a text from Zack Richards, his ex-boyfriend. Noah sighs. It reads “Sorry to hear about your dad – hope you’re okay.” Turning his phone off, Noah pockets it.
Over at The Rose and Crown, Paul is talking to Rob, who shakes his head as they discuss the tragic passing of Dave. “It’s unbelievable” Rob, who – along with Paul – was friends with Dave, says with a shake of the head, “I just can’t believe he's gone.” “I’m thinking of getting in contact with Nikki, asking if we can do something for Dave. Little memorial or something. Then maybe a few weeks after the funeral, we can do a poker night in here. Loved a flutter did our Dave.” “He did. Remember when we all went to that casino, he nearly gambled away his businesses cos he was so determined to beat that guy!” “Oh god, yeah!” laughs Paul, “Nikki would have ripped his head off if he’d done that.”
The pair are then joined by Paul’s fiancée Leona Anderson. “What’s this?” she asks, smiling. “Just discussing Dave.” Leona’s face changes: her demeanour becomes softer, clearly saddened by the loss of her friend’s husband. “Nikki’s a mess, as expected” she says, “I’ve been round to see her, but she didn’t say much. I didn’t stay long, didn’t want to intrude.” “Naomi said the same” Rob says, referring to his wife, also a friend of Nikki’s, “I think just give her time, but let her know you’re there for her.” “We all are” Paul insists. He turns to Leona. “Has Curtis messaged Noah to let him know he’s thinking of him?” “I mentioned it to him, but apparently they haven’t talked much recently. Noah’s closer to the girls now, apparently.” “He gets on well with our Amber” Rob says, “And him and Lily are tight. Always have been.” “That whole family need all the support they can get” Paul says softly.
Getting out of her car with some shopping bags, Emma smiles as she sees Chloe approaching. “You okay?” Emma asks. Chloe nods, wiping her eyes. “Fine, just… long day. You need a hand?” she offers. “Please.” Chloe picks up a few of the shopping bags and helps Emma carry them indoors. Once inside, Emma begins putting the shopping away, as Chloe stands idly by the doorway. Emma looks up at her. “Are you sure you’re alright? You’ve been unusually quiet recently…” “I’ve just got a lot going on” Chloe insists. Emma smiles. “You can talk to me, y’know. I know we don’t know each other too well – I’m just the wife of your cousin – but… I’m a good listener. You wouldn’t believe the amount of people I have popping into the coffee shop for a natter.” “It…” Chloe hesitates: she is considering being honest, telling Emma the truth, and bites her bottom lip. Eventually, she speaks again. “It’s my dad…” she whispers. Emma nods.
Chelsea hands Nikki and Bev a cup of tea as she joins them in the living room of her flat. She smiles at her eldest son Theo, who arrives with a picture he has drawn, which he hands to Nikki. “What’s this?” Nikki asks, her eyes glazed. Theo begins explaining his picture: it is of his grandad Dave. Unable to speak, Nikki just nods, feeling a stream of tears rushing down her face. Bev places a reassuring hand on Nikki’s knee. “It’s lovely, Theo” Bev tells her great-grandson, “I didn’t know we had an artist in the family.” “Yeah, Theo, it’s great” Nikki agrees eventually. Suddenly, the door opens, and Jase rushes in, clearly rattled. Chelsea sighs as she sees her fiancé, sweaty from his run. “Mum” Jason whispers as he sees Nikki. Nikki looks him in the eyes. “Hi, son.” Jason then looks to Bev and smiles. “Wasn’t expecting you, nan.” “You know me, always here in a crisis” she says with a hint of humour.
She turns to Chelsea. “This brew’s lovely, Chels.” “Cheers Bev.” Chelsea then moves towards Jason. “Are you okay?” she asks. Jason nods, taking Chelsea’s hand. “Can we talk in the kitchen?” he asks. Moving into the kitchen, Jason grabs a glass of water and necks it. He turns to Chelsea. “You’ve taken off your engagement ring?” he asks with a hint of sadness in his voice. “Just for now, babe. I didn’t think it was the right time to tell your mum we’re engaged, not with everything with your dad, so I took it off when they arrived… we can tell them now though, if you want.” “No, no, you’re right” Jason insists, “It’s not the time.” He wraps his arms around Chelsea’s waist. “I love you… so much” he tells her. Chelsea smiles. “Love you too.” The pair share a passionate kiss, until Chelsea scrunches her nose up. “You’re sweaty” she laughs. Jason shrugs. “Sorry.”
Noah walks home, down Oakford Avenue. He looks up at the darkening sky and sighs. The thoughts of Zack’s text from earlier come racing into his head, old feelings reignited: but pushed aside by the prevalent grief he is facing from the loss of his father. Soon, Noah’s thoughts are interrupted by a face that he doesn’t want to see: as Dylan Morgan approaches. Noah rolls his eyes when he sees Dylan, considering crossing the road even though he is on the side his house is on, but he chooses to front it, and continues walking. “Alright?” Dylan greets. Noah just huffs. “I ain’t gonna be an arse” Dylan promises, “I… I’m sorry about your dad.” Noah raises an eyebrow. “Right… thanks.” “I know we ain’t mates, but… if you need anything…” “I’m fine thanks, Dylan” Noah insists. He nods. “You’re right – we ain’t mates.” With that, Noah continues walking off, as a sympathetic Dylan sighs. Once he has reached his home, Noah lets himself in, and calls out for his mum, but nobody is there. His dog Marley comes rushing over to him and jumps up, with Noah giving him a fuss. Marley begins whining sadly. With a nod, Noah sighs, “I miss him too, Marley” Noah whispers sadly, burying his face in Marley’s fur.
At the Kinsella’s home, Emma and Chloe are sitting with a cup of tea. “So it’s about Marcus?” Emma asks, referring to Marcus Hall, the man Chloe had believed to be her father her whole life, and whom everyone else bar Alison (and previously Dave), know to be Chloe’s dad. Chloe nods. “Erm… yeah, yeah it is” Chloe whispers. She sighs. “No, it isn’t.” “But you said it’s about your dad…” Emma raises an eyebrow. “I, er… I left London cos I had an argument with my mum. It turns out… look, you can’t tell anyone about this. Even auntie Fi doesn’t know. Me and mum, we’re the only ones who know.” “Anything you tell me stays between us” Emma assures Chloe, “I promise.” Chloe looks into Emma’s eyes. “It turns out that my dad… Marcus… he ain’t my dad. Not really. Mum had an affair… so I’m not his.” Emma gasps, as Chloe falls short of revealing the full truth: that her real father is Dave Harding, who died several days ago.
Back at the flat above Drive Buy Supermarket, Jason is relaxed on the sofa. Chelsea joins him, having just seen Nikki and Bev out. “I’m glad your mum’s got your nan here” Chelsea says softly as she sits down and rests her head on Jason’s chest. Jason nods. “Me too. She needs someone. I know she’s got Noah, but… he’s just a kid. He’s never been through something like this.” “And you… how are you feeling about it all?” Jason turns his head away. “I don’t really wanna talk about my feelings, Chels.” “It might help…” “It won’t” Jason snaps, “I just… I ain’t good at all that stuff. Talking. It’s not for me.” With a nod, Chelsea tells Jase that she understands. “How about we head to bed, curl up and watch a film?” “You go in… I’m just gonna do something” Jason insists. He watches as Chelsea heads through to the bedroom, and once she is out of sight, Jason pulls his phone out of his pocket. He goes onto Facebook and types in ‘Brady Kinsella’, sighing as he sees Brady’s profile – recently in use again – pop up. Jason clicks on the profile before pressing the block button. Once he has blocked Brady, he scrolls through the posts on Dave’s Facebook wall, messages offering their condolences and regret that Dave has passed. Brady’s words echo around Jason’s head: “Just remember the secrets I’m keeping for you… all of them.”
In a flashback to 2017, a slightly younger Brady and Jason were standing in a park. Jason sighed as he shook his head. “Are you sure this is gonna be alright?” he asked. 23-year-old Brady told Jason to stop panicking. “You’re gonna make us look dodgy. You’ll scare our guy off.” Soon, the pair were approached by a guy in his early 20s. He looked Jason and Brady up and down. “Jase?” the guy asked. Brady stepped forwards. “That’s me” he smiled. He pulled some money out of his wallet and handed it to the guy. The guy snatched it from him and discretely handed him something else. As he briskly walked off, Brady looked down at his palm – at a bag of cocaine and a bag of cannabis in the palm of his hand. Smirking, Brady turned to Jason. “Goods acquired” he winked. Some time later, Brady and Jason were in Brady’s room in the house he shared with his mum, Fi. Brady was rolling a cigarette for them to smoke, while Jason looked at the bag of cocaine. “You sure you wanna do this?” Brady asked. Jason nodded. “I just need to take the edge off” he insisted.
“I’m so sick of it all. Chelsea won’t stop nagging me. We’re barely even together and she’s moaning about when the baby gets here, whether we’ll move in together… I just wish I hadn’t been so stupid.” “Should’ve worn a nodder” Brady noted. Jason rolled his eyes. “Can we just do this? I just need to forget…” Smirking, Brady nodded. “Thought you’d never ask” he winked. There is another time jump, as a high Brady and Jason sat on Brady’s bed, both of them out of it. Jason groaned as he placed his phone down. “Chelsea’s text” he grunted. Brady snatched his phone. “Just ignore it” he insisted, tossing the phone across the room. Jason scoffed. “Brady!” “You need some time to relax. You’ve got a baby on the way… you ain’t gonna be able to do that for long once they’re here.” “Don’t remind me” Jason begged, “I just need to forget. To have fun.” Brady placed a hand on Jase’s arm. “We are having fun. I love you, bro.” “Love you too.” Jason placed his forehead against Brady’s head and smirked.
“Promise you won’t abandon me when I become a dad?” Jason begged. Brady placed a hand on the back of Jason’s head. “Promise” he swore. The pair sat there for a moment, before they began laughing. Brady pulled Jason into a hug, and the pair rolled over on the bed, giggling. Brady sat up, positioned above Jason, and was surprised when Jason leant in and kissed him. The kiss was steamy but short, and Jason soon pulled away. “I’m sorry” he whispered. Brady shook his head. “Don’t be” he told his friend. He kissed him again. Jason pulled Brady into a deeper kiss, moving his hands under Brady’s t-shirt and feeling his abs. Their breathing became laboured as the kiss became more passionate, tension boiling over. “I’m not gay” Jason told Brady as he pulled away again. Brady nodded. “Me neither” he said. Jason smirked, kissing Brady’s neck, before Brady slid down the bed, and began to unbuckle Jason’s jeans. As Brady pulled Jason’s underwear down, Jason laid back, staring up at the ceiling…
Regular Cast: Amber Morgan: Millie Gibson Brady Kinsella: Danny Walters Chelsea Bryant: Jessica Plummer Chloe Hall: Charlotte Jordan Dylan Morgan: Bleu Landau Emma Kinsella: Sammy Winward Ethan Bowers: Callum Kerr Jason Harding: Adam Woodward Leona Anderson: Diane Parish Nicola “Nikki” Harding: Alex Fletcher Noah Harding: Charlie Behan Paul Gordon: Robert Beck Robert “Rob” Morgan: Will Mellor Ronan Kinsella: Ayden Callaghan Sophia Morgan: Tilly Keeper
Recurring Cast: Beau Harding: Uncredited Beverley “Bev” Daniels: Sue Johnston Fiona “Fi” Kinsella: Deena Payne Marley: Uncredited (dog) Theodore “Theo” Harding: Uncredited
Guest Cast: PC Jada Nixon: Uncredited
• ORIGINAL PUBLICATION: 2023.09.11
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Dec 31, 2023 14:43:29 GMT
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Dec 31, 2023 14:44:29 GMT
Wednesday 6th September 2023
Lying on the sofa at around half 7 in the morning, shirtless Brady Kinsella is staring up at the ceiling. Unable to sleep, he sighs, one arm behind his head. A memory flashes through his mind: five and a half years ago, him and best friend Jason Harding, both high, having sex. Brady tries to remove the memory from his mind, but he can’t, and he turns over to see his cousin Chloe missing from the armchair she has spent the last few weeks sleeping in. Frowning, Brady sits up and reaches out for a vest. Out on Oakford Avenue, Chloe Hall is standing across the street from the Harding family home, looking at the floral tributes to her (secret) biological father Dave Harding, who died a week ago. With a sigh, Chloe pulls her phone out to see a text from her mum, Alison, from the night before, begging her to come home. Chloe deletes the text before walking away.
In the flat above The Rose and Crown, landlord Paul Gordon is enjoying an early morning coffee when he is joined by his tired-looking son Aaron Gordon. Paul smirks at Aaron’s dishevelled state. “You look like you had a rough night’s sleep” Paul notes, to which Aaron rolls his eyes. “Yeah… didn’t get much sleep. Don’t s’pose you’re doing any breakfast?” “Not for another few hours, mate. Why, she hungry?” Paul winks. Aaron just ignores the question, grabbing a banana and disappearing back into his room. And over at the Cullen family home, Charlie Cullen is in his dressing gown, sitting at the kitchen table flicking through the post. He grins as he comes across a letter addressed to him, with a logo for ‘Coventry Rangers’ in the top right corner. Opening it quickly, Charlie scans through the letter and smirks: it is informing him that he has been selected following his try-outs a few weeks ago, and has made the team. Triumphantly punching the air, Charlie cannot believe his luck.
Some time later, the Gordons are settled down for a family breakfast. Youngest son Curtis Gordon is buttering his toast while his mum Leona Anderson pours herself a glass of juice from the jug. She smiles at Curtis. “I really think you ought to reach out to Noah, Curtis” Leona insists, “He’d appreciate all the support he can get.” “He won’t care, mum” Curtis says, “We’ve not talked properly since his birthday party. It’s a bit sus if I just pop up now.” “It’d be nice for him to know you’re thinking of him” intervenes Paul, settling down to enjoy his breakfast, “You two were mates once upon a time, and just cos he’s closer to the girls…” “I ain’t gonna force anything” Curtis argues, “He wouldn’t talk to me anyway, not like that. It's just a bit awkward… him and Dylan, they don’t get on.” “Why’s that?” asks Leona. Curtis shrugs. “I dunno. Dylan’s difficult, ain’t he? He’s hard to take. He says Noah’s just sensitive, but…” “There’s something about that boy I dislike” Leona presses her lips, “Dylan’s always been a dodgy character.”
“You weren’t saying that when you were best friends with his mum(!)” Curtis quips. He then puts his knife down. “I haven’t seen you bothering with Nikki much, anyway.” “I’ve offered my support!” Leona insists, “Don’t get cocky, Curtis, just because I’ve suggested you reach out to a friend.” Aaron then enters, breaking the conversation. Paul breathes a sigh of relief. “Brilliant timing” he mutters, before saying louder, “Glad to see you wearing some more clothes now, Aaron.” Aaron rolls his eyes. “Yeah thanks, dad. Did you do me a plate?” “Course I did lad.” Paul grabs a plate from the grill and puts it down on the kitchen table. Aaron immediately begins digging into it, wolfing down some bacon. Leona looks at him with a raised eyebrow. “You’re hungry, hey?” “Worked up an appetite last night didn’t he” Paul teases with a cheeky grin. Aaron shoots him a glare. “Do you have to?” “I just think if you’re going to bring a girl back, you face the consequences. Those consequences being a ribbing from your old man.”
“I thought we agreed you’d tell us when you were planning on bringing a girl home?” Leona says. With a scoff, Aaron cocks his head. “I’m 22 years old, Leona. Do I really need permission to have sex?” Cringing, Curtis shakes his head. “I’m going to eat this in my room.” Quickly making himself scarce, not caring to hear about his brother’s sex life, Curtis disappears. Leona frowns. “I didn’t say you needed permission, it’s just a heads up that you’ll have company would be nice. What if I’d got up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom in my nightie and ran into your friend?” “Then you’d be keeping a therapist in a job for at least another six months(!)” Aaron retorts. Paul snorts, earning himself a glare from Leona. He sobers. “Don’t talk to Leona like that, Aaron” Paul warns. Aaron huffs. “This is why I need my own gaff” he mutters, rolling his eyes.
Making his way downstairs, Noah Harding yawns as he arrives at the bottom of the stairs. He moves towards the living room but hesitates as he hears his grandmother Beverley ‘Bev’ Daniels talking to her daughter, Noah’s mum, Nicola ‘Nikki’ Harding. “I was thinking I could get in touch with the funeral directors, give you a hand with that side of things?” Bev suggests, trying to take the pressure off of Nikki, who recently lost her husband Dave. Nikki just sighs in response. “Mm.” “Come on, Nicola” Bev begs, “You need to start sharing the load.” “I think it's a bit too soon to be talking about funerals, mam.” “Well now we’ve gotten the coroner’s report back and they’ve confirmed it was a heart attack, we need to start planning. You want to give Dave a good send-off, right?” “Of course I do!” Nikki insists, “I just… I’ve barely processed that he’s gone. I can’t say goodbye already.” “A funeral will help you process it all” insists Bev, “Look, I’m not going to push it, but… but I don’t think you should be doing all this alone. And with Noah so young and Jason busy with the new baby, I think I’m your best shot at lightening the load.” From outside, a guilty Noah listens in.
In Vibes coffee shop, Chloe is sitting with a latte as she stares into space. She is soon approached by owner Emma Kinsella. “You were out early this morning” Emma notes with a raised eyebrow, “Your aunt was worried.” “I just went for a walk to clear my head” insists Chloe. With a nod, Emma tells Chloe that she understands. “It must be a lot… grappling with what you know, unable to talk to anyone. But you can talk to me, you know.” “I don’t want to bring unnecessary drama to your door” Chloe says sadly. “What about your mum? Surely you could reach out to her… she must be worried sick!” “Me and my mum… we don’t have the best bond.” Chloe taps her pristine fingernails against her latte glass, “Things are a bit fraught.” With a sigh, Emma takes a seat opposite Chloe. “Still… she must care about you. If one of my two just upped and left… I’d be straight on the motorway, tracking them down. Have you talked to her?” “I’ve been ignoring her calls and texts” reveals Chloe, “So unless auntie Fi’s told her I’m here… she doesn’t have a clue.” Emma presses her lips. “Reach out to her… she made a mistake, but I’m sure she meant well. I mean, your biological father… he must be nowhere near the man Marcus is. Take some comfort in the fact that she tried to give you the best dad possible, even if he did fall short at times.” With that, Emma gets up and heads behind the counter, as Chloe sighs.
In The Rose and Crown, Aaron is getting the pub ready for opening while his best mate Charlie stands by the bar, chatting to him. Putting on the beer nozzles, Aaron peers over at the letter that Charlie is holding. “Come on then lad, what is it?” Aaron asks. Charlie smirks, proud of himself. “It’s from Rangers. I’ve made the team, Az.” “Aw, well done, mate!” Aaron congratulates, “I’m happy for you!” “I didn’t think it’d happen, not after I got dropped from the Under 21s after my injury, but… but I’m back on.” “And with them joining the Prem next season, what better time than now to be accepted, eh? We should meet for a drink tonight, to celebrate!” “Maybe just one” Charlie says, “I’ve got a meeting tomorrow at the grounds. It all feels really serious!” The pair are then joined by Leona. “What’s this?” Leona asks nosily. Charlie smiles. “I’ve been given my place back for Rangers. Got the acceptance letter today.” “Aw that’s amazing, Charlie – your nan must be thrilled!” Leona says happily.
Charlie titters. “She don’t know yet” he admits. Aaron raises an eyebrow. “Keeping secrets from poor Nancy, eh?” Aaron teases. Sucking his teeth, Charlie shakes his head. “I just haven’t seen her this morning. I’ll tell her… not sure how.” “She’ll be so happy for you” Leona says. She then turns to Aaron. “See, Aaron – Charlie’s making his family proud, doing something worthwhile with his life!” “Unlike me, bringing random girls home, you mean? What a slag(!)” Aaron rolls his eyes. Charlie stifles a chuckle, holding his hands up. “I’m gonna head. Catch you later for that drink, yeah?” As Charlie leaves, Leona looks at Aaron. “I didn’t mean it like that, I just…” “You’re being judgemental, Lee” Aaron tells her, “Just cos I ain’t joining a footie team, saving lives like Elyse or living in the capital like Ryan and Kelsey, it doesn’t make my life any less significant, alright?” With that, Aaron heads out back, as Leona sighs.
Meanwhile, at Intensity Fitness and Leisure Centre, owner Conor Kinsella is sitting in his office, on the phone to secret lover Rebecca Callaghan, with whom he has secretly being enjoying a steamy open relationship. Conor smirks as he talks to Rebecca, who has been on holiday. “Well how about you pop round tonight, and I’ll show you how much I’ve missed you? Who knows, I might even cook us a meal…” Rebecca and Conor continue talking, until Conor notices his little brother Brady standing in the doorway. “I’ve, er… I’ve gotta go. I’ll get that emailed over to you right away, Mr Fanner. Okay, thank you. Ta-ra.” Hanging up, Conor turns to Brady, who smirks knowingly. “How long you been stood there?” Conor asks. Brady shrugs. “Long enough to hear you’ve got plans tonight. So, ‘Mr Fanner’… actually a fella, or a woman? Hard to keep up with you, nowadays” Brady winks. Conor shrugs. “So what if I like both?” he says, “But it’s just a client. Honestly.” “Right…” Brady laughs, “Anyway, don’t s’pose I can reopen my membership? It’s taken a lot for me to build up the courage to come in here but I miss the exercise schedule I had in prison like mad, so…” “Course you can. Why ain’t you asked sooner?” Conor asks.
Brady shrugs. “Guess I’m just avoiding everywhere, really. It’s been hard enough going to The Crown. Especially now, everything that’s happened with Dave…” Conor sighs. “Mum said you found him. That must’ve been difficult.” “The worst part is the dirty looks. I walk down the street and I get everyone staring, and all I can think is… what are they thinking? Are they wondering if I killed him? Came back after five and half years and finished the job?” “No-one thinks that, Brades” Conor tells his brother, “Everyone knows you were just a good kid who made a bad mistake. No-one thinks you actually wanted to hurt anyone…” “I’ve made a lot of mistakes, Con” sighs Brady, “Most of them involving that family. And I can’t put any of them right.” Conor stands up and moves towards Brady. “It must be hard… not being able to go back to where you left off with Jase. You two have been best mates since school. But… but you’ve got a whole future ahead of you, bruv. A life to live, even if Jason isn’t in it. And you’ve got me, and Ronan, and mum… the kids. Emma.” Brady shuffles his feet awkwardly. “I don’t think Emma’s my biggest fan, mate” Brady chuckles, scratching the back of his head. Conor nods. “She’ll come round. Everyone will. Now come on… how about we lift a few weights? Show me how you got those biceps!” Brady smiles.
Walking down Marwood Road, a sombre Nikki is looking at the ground, not wanting to make eye contact with anybody. Her mother Bev is beside her, sighing as she notices a selection of flowers outside of Nikki’s shop, Drive Buy. Nikki and Bev stop outside of the shop, and Nikki looks up at the window. She shakes her head. “How am I gonna do this?” she asks, “All these businesses, up and down the country… I can’t do it on my own.” “You could hire someone to help out” Bev suggests, “But we can cross that bridge when we come to it. Come on, I’m sick of those expensive sausages you buy. I just want a nice, cheap sausage sarnie for my brekkie.” Entering the shop, Bev smiles as she sees teenagers, and shop assistants, Dylan Morgan and Lily Preston behind the counter. Dylan and Lily are talking happily with each other but as soon as they see Bev and – crucially – Nikki, they go silent and rigid. “Mrs Harding” Lily whispers as she looks Nikki in the eyes. Dylan shuffles his feet. “Sorry for your loss, Mrs H” Dylan says quietly. Nikki smiles at them. “Thank you, guys. I appreciate it” she whispers, unsure what else to say. She follows Bev through to the freezer aisle, as Bev begins scouring for some ‘cheap’ sausages. Back behind the counter, Dylan turns to Lily. “You didn’t say she was popping in.” “I didn’t know” Lily sighs. She watches Nikki and Bev, unsure what to say to her grieving boss.
Meanwhile, back at the Harding home, Noah is sitting on the sofa, watching TV. He isn’t paying attention, instead looking down at his phone, at the text he received from ex-boyfriend Zack Richards a few days ago. Sighing, Noah puts the phone down and looks over at the mantelpiece, at a picture of Noah and his late father, Dave. Staring at the picture for a moment, Noah is lost in thought: before picking the phone back up. He quickly types a text, asking Zack to meet him, and then pressing send… Back at the gym, Conor and Brady are finishing a work out, both worn out and sweating. Conor sighs as he rubs a line of sweat from his brow. “I’ve got to hand it to you, prison really helped” Conor laughs. Brady nods. “Not much else to do inside. Was just working out constantly” he laughs. Conor grabs his towel and mops his forehead. “Well don’t let your standards drop just cos you’ve been released, alright? Exercise is good for the mind… yadda yadda.” “You’re preaching to the choir” Brady laughs, “You know full well I’d have been a PT if I’d not messed up my final year at college.” “You thought about looking for jobs now you’re out?” Conor asks, taking a sip of water. With a sigh, Brady tells Conor that he wouldn’t know where to start. “I ain’t had a job in nearly six years. I did a bit of work inside, woodwork and making furniture, but… who’s gonna take me on? An ex-con with a violent history!” “What about if I ask my mate Matt to take you on at his builder’s yard?” Conor offers, “He’s always looking for labourers, and he’s my best mate… I’m sure he’d be happy to.” “You reckon?” Brady asks. Conor nods. “Yeah, leave it with me. And if not, you could always do a bit of temp work here. We offer courses to train up PTs…” “And risk everyone boycotting the place when they find out you’ve given me work? Nah, something more discrete like labouring, that’s the best option for me. Not a customer-facing job like working here.” With a smile, Conor tells Brady he’ll sort it – but not to let him down. Brady crosses his heart.
Meanwhile, at The Rose and Crown, Aaron is on his lunch break, sitting in the beer garden with a sandwich and his vape. He smiles as he sees Chloe entering the garden with a drink. “I dunno where you’re gonna sit(!)” Aaron quips, looking around at the empty garden. Chloe laughs. “I might just squeeze in here.” She sits down on one of the benches. “You’re Fi’s niece, right?” Aaron asks, taking a puff of his vape. Chloe nods. “Yeah.” “I work for Ronan and Fi at the garage. When I’m not working here… my dad owns this place.” “Little grease monkey, hey?” Chloe teases. With a shrug, Aaron tells Chloe that he is. “What about you? What do you do?” “I’m a beautician. Or, I was. Currently job-less…” “Ah well you’ll be fine, there’s like three salons within a ten-minute walk of here!” chuckles Aaron.
“Here, one of the barmaids here – her name’s Sophia – her mum owns a salon on Marwood Road. Soph works there during the day, does evenings here… I can pass your details on if you want?” Aaron offers. Chloe smiles. “That’d be nice. Is she the blonde pretty girl?” “Yeah, that’s her. Pristine nails, never leaves the house without looking 10/10!” “Aw, does someone have a little crush?” Chloe teases. “Nah, we’re just mates. She’s dating my best mate’s brother, anyway. And she’s out of my league.” “Don’t put yourself down” insists Chloe, “No-one is ‘out of your league’, everyone is worthy of each other’s time.” “You thought about being a life coach(?)” quips Aaron, vaping again, as Chloe laughs.
Elsewhere in Coventry, a bus pulls up to a stop, and a nervous-looking Noah gets off, rubbing his hands together with anxiety. He thanks the driver, before walking down the street. Ducking into an underpass going under the ring road, Noah looks around him: and smiles when he sees his ex-boyfriend Zachary ‘Zack’ Richards standing there, a sad smile on his face. “Noah” he whispers. Noah nods. “Hey” says Noah. He and Zack stare into each other’s eyes: before Zack pulls an emotional Noah into a tight hug and tells him he is sorry. Some time later, Zack and Noah are leaning against the wall, caught in a familiar but comfortable silence. Zack sighs. “How you holding up?” the teenager asks. Noah shrugs. “Just getting by. All I can do, in’t it?” he says.
“What about you… things good at home?” “Things are normal. Just… nothing much has happened. Feels like I’ve been left in limbo since…” Zack trails off. He turns to face Noah. “I’m sorry, Noah. About the way things ended… I was awful. Horrible.” “You were. And it hurt. But it is what it is, I guess” insists Noah. Zack nods. “I shouldn’t have let Dylan Morgan get to me so much, but… I just couldn’t face people finding out.” “I don’t wanna talk about it, Zack” Noah insists, “I don’t want to talk about Dylan, about us… I just want my mate back. That’s all I want… a mate.” Zack looks into Noah’s eyes. “I am your mate” he whispers, his voice breaking.
Emma is at Vibes Coffee Shop, chatting to an employee. She is soon joined by Chelsea Bryant, the café manager, who is currently on maternity leave after giving birth to her son Beau recently. Emma smiles at her friend and colleague. “Hey you” she greets, moving towards Chelsea and giving her a hug. Chelsea returns the smile. “How are things?” Emma asks, a double-loaded question – as not only has Chelsea recently given birth, but her boyfriend’s dad has also just died. Chelsea nods. “Baby’s great. Jase, not so much” Chelsea laughs. Emma sighs. “He must be in pieces” whispers Emma, “Nikki too…” “The whole family’s devastated.” “It’s so sad.” Emma then looks down at the pram, where Chelsea’s young son Beau Harding is. She gasps. “He’s beautiful” Emma compliments, pulling a face at Beau. Chelsea nods. “Isn’t he perfect?” she laughs. “He’s got your nose” says Emma. “Jason’s eyes, though. Just the most piercing, blue eyes.” “Oh I’m so happy for you, Chels. I’m so glad you’ve got something positive out of all of this.” Chelsea looks around the coffee shop. “Quiet in here for a lunch time” she notes. Emma confirms that it is. “We had a bit of a rush mid-morning, but… last few days have been pretty crap! Hey, fancy a coffee? I’m due a break.” “Sounds great.”
At the Cullen family home, Charlie has made lunch for him and his nan, Nancy Cullen. He places a bowl of salad down in the middle of the table and takes a seat opposite Nancy. “Dig in, nan” Charlie tells her. Nancy smiles, observing the food. “I’m so glad we taught you how to cook so young” giggles Nancy. “It’s a chicken and bacon salad, there’s not much cooking involved” quips Charlie. He watches as Nancy begins putting some food onto her plate. “Nan, there’s somethin’ I need to talk to you about” Charlie reveals. Nancy raises an eyebrow. “Is everything alright?” she asks. Her face becomes more serious. “What have you done, Charlie?” “I’ve not done anything” Charlie insists, “Don’t panic – it’s all cool.” “Sorry. I’m so used to your brother bringing trouble to my door, I’ve learnt to assume the worst.” “I mean I’m hardly surprised, the situations Damon’s gotten himself into in the past” laughs Charlie. He reaches into his pocket and pulls out an envelope, handing it to Nancy. Nancy puts her glasses on and begins reading it. “Is this what I think it is?” she asks. Charlie nods. “Yeah… I’ve made the team. I start training in the next few weeks.” “Oh Charlie” gasps Nancy, “Well done, son.” She reaches out and grabs Charlie’s hand. “Your grandad would be so proud.” With a proud smile on his face, Charlie nods, and thanks Nancy.
Back at the Crown, Aaron is finishing his lunch break. “I’d best get back to work” he says regretfully to Chloe, “You just gonna sit here drinking alone all day, or…?” “Don’t have much else to do” Chloe sighs, “My life’s hit a bit of a crossroads.” “You’re in a new area, endless possibilities… how have you exhausted them all already?” Aaron asks. With a shrug, Chloe looks Aaron up and down. “Not really had time to explore any of them, actually.” A smirk spreads across Aaron’s face. “Well you let me know if you need someone to show you round. I know a few good hidden spots.” “Sounds good. How does Saturday night sound?” Chloe asks. Aaron tilts his head. “I can be persuaded” he insists. “Get your dancing shoes on then, cutie” teases Chloe. She stands up and walks past Aaron’s table. “And just so you know… I’m a kebab and an afters kind of girl.” With that, Chloe leaves, as a flustered Aaron grins to himself.
Emma and Chelsea are sitting in the coffee shop, having a chat. Emma checks her phone and sighs. “Ronan’s trying to pack for our little break away in Skegness. He’s useless when it comes to deciding what we need for a few days.” “Men are” Chelsea sighs, “I remember taking Theo to Cornwall last year… Jason forgot half the stuff I said we needed.” “I’m half-tempted to just shut up early and go and pack myself. We leave in two days. Thought we’d go when all the kids go back to school, cheaper that way.” “It’ll be nice though, little break away. Just you, Ronan and the kids?” Chelsea asks. Emma nods. “It’s a bit… cramped at home, what with Brady and Chloe. We’re looking forward to the time away. Little caravan, five minute walk from the beach. It’ll be nice.”
With a sigh, Chelsea says that she doesn’t feel like she and her boys will be getting a holiday this year. “I mean it was gonna be difficult anyway, cos we didn’t know when Beau would be getting here, but everything with Dave… can’t really leave Nikki. She’s got her mum – Bev’s come down, but… but Jason’s a mess. Spending more time exercising than he is with his family.” “Let him grieve in his own way, Chels” Emma urges, “He’s… he’s going through a lot. Brady coming back can’t be helping.” Chelsea sighs – there is an elephant in the room, as Chelsea’s boyfriend’s family has lots of history with Emma’s brother-in-law Brady. Eventually, she nods. “I just wish things could be normal. Calm. I want an easy life, Em, I don’t want agg and drama.” “Tell me about it” sighs Emma.
Walking through the city, Noah and Zack aren’t saying much, but are just enjoying each other’s company. Noah sighs as they reach the bus stop. “This is where I need to get the bus from” he says. Zack nods. “Mine’s another 10 minute walk. You’ll be alright?” he offers. Forcing a smile, Noah tells Zack that he’ll be fine. “I’m a big boy.” Zack takes Noah’s hand and squeezes it. “I’m here for you if you need me, okay?” he offers. “Thanks, Zack” Noah says. He kisses Zack’s cheek. “I really appreciate it.” Zack nods, not saying much, and eventually pulls Noah into a tight hug. He sighs. “I’m sorry about your dad. Honestly.” The boys break away and Zack scratches the back of his neck. “I’d best go. I’ll, er… I’ll text ya. Innabit.” As he heads off, Noah sighs, watching Zack. He smiles to himself, pleased to have patched up his friendship.
Standing outside of the gym, Brady lights up a cigarette. He takes a drag and begins walking away, down Marwood Road, but he stops when he sees Bev and Nikki moving towards him. Nikki stops dead in her tracks and shakes her head. “Keep him away from me” she tells Bev. Bev follows her eye line and sees Brady, sighing. “Leave it, Nicola.” “I mean it, mam” Nikki warns, “I want him dead. Keep him away from me.” “Nikki…” Brady says, moving towards the two women. Bev shakes her head. “Not here, son” Bev tells him, “Go home.” “I just want to say I’m sorry…” “Not now!” Bev snaps. She looks at her daughter, anger bubbling away, “Can’t you see she’s not in the mood? She’s lost her husband – now clear off!” Holding his hands up, Brady tells Bev and Nikki that he is sorry, before leaving. Nikki turns to Bev. “I hate his guts” Nikki snarls, “I want him to suffer.” “As much as he’s a nuisance, he didn’t kill Dave, Nik” Bev reminds her daughter, “And channelling your hate onto Brady Kinsella isn’t going to bring your husband back.” “His presence put all that unneeded pressure on Dave’s heart” Nikki whispers, “Like I said the other day – Brady has blood on his hands.” Bev sighs as Nikki walks off.
“How was work?” asks Imogen Preston as her daughter Lily arrives home. Lily nods. “It was okay. Bit awkward when Nikki came in though, didn’t know what to say” she reveals. Pressing her lips, Imogen hugs Lily. “Not a lot you can say, babe. You heard from Noah much recently?” she asks. Lily tells Nikki that Noah’s become a bit reclusive. “He’s locking himself away. I mean, I don’t blame him… it must suck, losing your dad. I can’t imagine it.” The mother and daughter are then joined by Imogen’s husband Matthew ‘Matt’ Preston, who is shirtless, having been working out in the garden. “Alright girls?” greets Matt, wrapping his arms around Imogen and kissing her neck. Imogen lets him before groaning and remarking that Matt is sweaty. “It’s 30-degrees out – of course I’m sweating!” he chuckles. Lily frowns. “You not at work today?” she asks. “Finished early. Our last customer had to take their kid to A&E so we took the afternoon off. Good day?” Lily laughs at her dad asking the same question as her mum. “Yeah, fine. I was thinking of going round to Curtis’ later” Lily reveals. Matt nods. “Make sure you’re home at a reasonable time, yeah?” With that, he goes and washes his hands. “I’m glad dad’s not still angry at Curtis” Lily admits. Imogen smiles. “I told you he’d come round. He likes Curtis, he knows he’s a good kid – that’s why he’s employed him!”
Elsewhere, Chloe arrives back at the Kinsella home to find it empty. Placing her handbag down, she moves into the kitchen, where she sees a note from Fi, saying that she has popped into town with Ronan and the kids to get some last-minute bits for their holiday. Chloe feels her phone buzz in her pocket, and pulls it out: her mother Alison is ringing. She watches the call dial out before placing the phone down on the sideboard and pulling something else out of her bag: a box of pills. Looking down at the pills, Chloe sighs – they are lithium tablets. Chloe moves towards the bin and considers tossing them away, but eventually she sighs and puts the tablets back into her bag, aware that it is not a wise idea to come off her bipolar medication.
Regular Cast: Aaron Gordon: Jack James Ryan Brady Kinsella: Danny Walters Charlie Cullen: Billy Price Chelsea Bryant: Jessica Plummer Chloe Hall: Charlotte Jordan Conor Kinsella: Danny Hatchard Curtis Gordon: Jaden Ladega Dylan Morgan: Bleu Landau Emma Kinsella: Sammy Winward Imogen Preston: Catherine Tyldesley Jason Harding: Adam Woodward Leona Anderson: Diane Parish Lily Preston: Ellie Dadd Matthew “Matt” Preston: David Tag Nicola “Nikki” Harding: Alex Fletcher Noah Harding: Charlie Behan Paul Gordon: Robert Beck
Recurring Cast: Beau Harding: Uncredited Beverley “Bev” Daniels: Sue Johnston Nancy Cullen: Cathy Shipton Zachary “Zack” Richards: Sam Hall
• ORIGINAL PUBLICATION: 2023.09.18
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Dec 31, 2023 14:44:49 GMT
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Dec 31, 2023 14:47:27 GMT
Saturday 9th September 2023
It is a Saturday evening, and at Zarah Mistry’s home, the house is quiet. Squashed together on one of the two single beds in the guest bedroom, Louie Renshaw and Jacob ‘Jake’ Howell are having sex, making the most of the empty house. After a while, they are finished, and Jake rolls off of Louie, who is smirking. “For a closet case, you really are a pro” Louie teases. Jake punches his arm playfully. “You’re such a nob” he laughs. The pair kiss. “Give me ten minutes and we can go again” Jake flirts. With a scoff, Louie tilts his head. “No concern for how long I need, eh?” “I’m the one doing all the work!” Jake argues. A phone then begins to ring, and Jake sighs.
“It’s my dad” he mutters, looking down at it. Louie tuts. “Leave it” he says, running a finger down Jake’s bare chest, “Talk to me instead.” “If I don’t answer, he’ll lose the plot when I get in tonight.” “Tonight? Ain’t you staying here?” teases Louie. Jake sighs. “Won’t your room-mate be back soon?” “Oh, yeah, you’re right” a deflated Louie confirms, “I… forgot I’m currently living in my best mate’s aunt’s spare room.” “Any progress with getting a new place for second year?” “Oh yeah, me and Kai have found somewhere. It’s down the road actually. We just need to find a few lodgers… don’t s’pose you know anyone attending St. Stephen’s who needs a place to crash?” “Nah, sorry bro” apologises Jake. “‘Bro’” mocks Louie, pretending to retch. Jake punches his arm playfully, and the pair share another kiss.
Meanwhile, at St. Stephen’s Memorial Hospital, the emergency department is busy, as is standard on a Saturday night. Staff nurse Elyse Anderson is standing at the reception desk, looking through a folder, when she is approached by front desk receptionist Martha Dobbs. “Don’t suppose you’ve seen Dr Saleem, have you?” Martha asks, referring to clinical lead Bakshi Saleem. Elyse shakes her head. “No. Everything okay?” “The new fella’s here. Dr Saleem said she’d assigned someone to monitor him for the first day, said to let her know when he was here. Ah, there she is!” Martha moves towards the ED’s clinical lead, Dr Bakshi Saleem, who exits her office. Soon, Bakshi approaches Elyse. “Elyse, I’d like to introduce you to somebody.” “I really am quite busy” Elyse says through gritted teeth, but Bakshi uses a hand on Elyse’s back to guide her towards the staff room. They enter to see a shirtless man in his mid-20s, changing into his scrubs. “Elyse, this is our new colleague, staff nurse Ewan Price. Ewan, Elyse. Elyse will be looking after you today.” Elyse’s eyes bulge. “Nice to meet you” greets Ewan Price, extending his hand for Elyse to shake. Elyse reluctantly takes it. “Dr Saleem, I don’t think I’m…” “Nonsense, Elyse” Saleem tells her, “You and Ewan have a lot in common. You’ll get on.” Leaving quickly, Bakshi disappears, as Elyse turns back to Ewan, now fully dressed. “Sorry for you walking in as I was all Magic Mike” laughs Ewan, “How about a coffee?”
“Thank you for meeting me” smiles Zarah Mistry as she sits at a table in a restaurant-slash-bar in Coventry. Her companion Stephanie ‘Steph’ Sykes sighs, not looking her in the eye. “I was in the area so I thought I’d hear what you had to say” Steph pouts, “I got your voicemail the other week.” “You didn’t reply.” “I was angry” says Steph, “You’d just described us as ‘fun’.” “I didn’t mean it how it sounded…” Zarah insists. She sighs. “My kids were – are – going through a lot. I was just concerned about upsetting things for them.” The pair are then approached by a waiter, interrupting the discussion. After ordering, Steph picks up her glass of wine and finally makes eye contact with Zarah. “I missed you, y’know” she says. Zarah nods. “I missed you too. I always do, every second I’m not with you.” The pair link hands.
Meanwhile, in a nightclub in the city centre, a drunken Chloe Hall is dancing wildly on the dancefloor, letting her hair down. Also drunk, Aaron Gordon is beside her, though he is handling his alcohol a lot better than she is. Chloe moves towards him and wraps her arms around his neck. “Thought you were going to invite some of your friends” Chloe calls out over the music. Aaron nods. “I did. They’re joining us later.” “You’re such a liar!” Chloe scoffs, “You just wanted it to be us two. Try and get me alone.” A confused Aaron bites his bottom lip. “Why would I do that?” he asks. Chloe just taps her nose. She then looks over at the bar. “Shot?” she offers. Aaron titters. “Go on then. Sambuca?” “No! Tequila!” Disappearing across the dance floor, Chloe beelines for the bar, and Aaron hangs back. He pales when he sees a familiar face making his way through the club.
The guy moves towards a booth, where he meets a group of men in their 20s with handshakes and hugs. Aaron takes a swig of his beer, diverting his eyes. At the bar, Chloe leans against it and smirks as she waits for her turn. She notices a guy standing beside her, eyeing her up, and turns to him. “Hey” greets the guy. Chloe returns the gesture. “Can I buy you a drink?” offers the man. Chloe titters. “I’m getting shots for my friend.” “Let me get them. Can’t have two lovely ladies going thirsty” he winks. Not telling the man that her friend is actually a male, Chloe nods. “Sounds good. I’ll have a vodka lemonade too, if you’re offering” she flirts, as the man chuckles. “You don’t ask for much” he teases. With a shrug, Chloe says that she’s usually told she’s worth it. The man nods. “I bet.”
“Are you excited for tomorrow?” asks Mollie Preston as she and her boyfriend Charlie Cullen sit together, curled up on the sofa in Mollie’s family home. Charlie titters. “Nervous!” he admits, referring to the fact that he has his first meeting with the manager for his football new team, Coventry Rangers. Mollie squeezes his leg. “You’ll be great” she insists. The pair are then joined by Mollie’s father, Matthew ‘Matt’ Preston. “Alright kids?” greets Matt. Mollie and Charlie smile. “Evening Matt” Charlie says as he stretches out. Matt looks at him. “Mols said you’ve got a big day tomorrow.” “Yeah, meeting with my manager. He’s gonna introduce me to the team I think.” “That’s big! You excited?” “Yeah, yeah. Just relieved to finally be back on the team.” “My boyfriend, the footballer” Mollie teases. The pair share a kiss, and Matt scrunches up his nose. “Lovely. Right, well I’m off to bed… got an early start tomorrow. Make sure you guys get some kip… you’ll need it, Charl.” As Matt leaves, Charlie turns to Mollie. “Your dad’s so sound” he says. Mollie titters. “He has his moments!” she says. She then swings her legs up onto Charlie’s and lays back. “Want to finish this film, or just head to bed?” she asks. Charlie looks unsure. “I do fancy a spoon” he grins. Shooting him a look, Mollie hesitates – before breaking out into a smirk and telling Charlie that she’d love a cuddle.
Back at the barstaurant, Zarah and Steph are coming to the end of their food. Steph smiles as she places her knife and fork down. “That was actually really nice” she says. Zarah nods. “Kai told me about this place. Apparently him and his student mates come here when they’re feeling flush!” “I could murder a cocktail, though” Steph teases. Zarah looks unsure. “I hoped we could talk some more?” she admits. Steph sighs. “I’m not sure what else there is to say, Z. You want to stay friends til you’re ready to tell the kids, that’s cool.” “That’s… not what I’ve been trying to say!” Zarah argues. Steph arches an eyebrow. “Oh, right.” “What I’ve been trying to tell you is…” Zarah takes a deep breath, “I think it’s time you met the kids.” Her eyes bulging, Steph takes a minute. Eventually, she speaks. “Right. And you’re sure?” “Positive. I mean, it’s a big step, but… maybe we can introduce you as a friend first. Then once you’ve spent a few hours with them, I can break the news. To Zian, at least. Alia’s a bit young, I reckon. She’s only 6.” “Do you not wanna talk to Ari about it first?” Steph asks with a hint of sadness in her voice. Zarah reaches out and takes her hand. “Ari doesn’t control my life anymore” she says with determination, “I can love who I want to love. And that’s you.” Looking into Zarah’s eyes, Steph smiles, before leaning over the table and kissing her. Zarah hesitates for a moment, not wanting to be seen in public, but eventually softens and kisses Steph back.
In the ED, Elyse is watching with annoyance as Ewan chats and flirts with a colleague. She is soon joined by Martha. “Everything okay love?” asks the receptionist. Elyse nods. “Just not feeling great” Elyse says, “Got a bit of a stomach ache.” “Why don’t you tell the boss, see if you can head home?” suggests Martha. Elyse sighs. “We’re already short-staffed. There’s no way I’ll be able to get off early. Besides, I’ve still got… 8 hours left on my shift.” “Well how about I make you a cuppa? That’ll sort your tummy out.” “Thanks, auntie Martha, but I’m okay” smiles Elyse. Martha tells Elyse to take it easy, before heading for the elevator, to get a coffee from the late-night coffee vendor. Ewan then approaches. “You good?” he asks. Elyse looks at him. “Sorry?” “I saw you talking to the receptionist… you looked a bit worried.” “I’m fine” Elyse says, “Don’t worry.” “I’m not worried, I’m just taking an interest” Ewan insists, “I’m a nurse – it’s kinda what I do!” “Well how about you do your job.” Elyse hands Ewan a folder. “Dr Harman wants you in cubicle 4.” With that, Elyse approaches a different cubicle, as Ewan sighs to himself, aware that Elyse isn’t yet his biggest fan.
At the Mistry family home, Louie is in the kitchen in his dressing gown when he is joined by a fully-dressed Jake. “I’d better be off” Jake sighs sadly. Louie presses his lips. “We had a fun evening though?” he says. Jake nods. “Course we did. Very fun…” He moves towards Louie and wraps his arms around his waist, pulling him into a steamy kiss. Louie sighs as the kiss dissipates. “I’m glad I saw you again” he admits. With a smile, Jake confirms that he is also glad. “We’ll do this again, for sure” he offers. Louie tilts his head. “A third time? How lucky am I(?)” he quips. Grinning and shaking his head, Jake grabs his phone. “See you around.” With that, Jake lets himself out of the back door – just as the front door opens, and Louie’s friend and room-mate Kaiyen Chadha enters. Kaiyen sighs, placing his keys down on the kitchen table. “Have a nice night on your own?” Kaiyen asks. Louie titters. “Uneventful” he lies, “Just curled up on my bed and had a nap.” “You had a better night than me, then! I’m just glad I was on an early finish and not a close, I’m knackered.” “It probably doesn’t help that you were at work til 5am this morning” laughs Louie – Kaiyen is a barman at a club.
Kaiyen takes a seat. “Did I tell you that the estate agent emailed yesterday afternoon? Wants us to go in and have a final chat about the new place. We really need to sort out these housemates, Lou. I was thinking we could ask Saks to move in, but even then, there’s another 2 rooms that need filling…” “Here, I know a guy that I met during Fresher’s Week. Last I heard, he was looking for a new place ‘cos his accom fell through. I can see if he's still looking?” Louie suggests. Kaiyen nods. “Yeah, sounds good. Maybe the last one should be a girl though… just so Sakina doesn’t feel outnumbered!” “She’s more of a bloke than me and you put together” giggles Louie, “But she might know someone. I’ll drop her a Snap.” “I just can’t wait to have my own room again” says Kaiyen, “Not that you haven’t been an amazing room-mate.” “Trust me, mate, the quicker I get away from your snoring and smelly feet, the better!” laughs Louie, earning himself a glare and a tut from Kaiyen.
Back at the club, Chloe has rejoined Aaron. She hands him a shot and smirks. “Bottoms up!” she declares, the pair bashing their shot glasses together before necking it. Aaron winces at the burn on his throat, but Chloe doesn’t even flinch. “You’re mad!” comments Aaron. Chloe just nods. “I’m from London, babes – we literally go mad every weekend!” “Bit of a party girl, yeah?” Aaron smirks. With a titter, Chloe shrugs. “Is it too much for you?” “No, it’s… impressive.” “Try and keep up, yeah?” winks Chloe. Aaron then spots the guy Chloe was talking to at the bar, looking at them. “That guy’s proper staring” he huffs. Chloe rolls her eyes. “He brought our shots. And my drink” Chloe admits. Aaron looks taken aback. “Oh, right.” “Don’t worry, I ain’t gonna abandon you for him. He’s so not my type. I just thought, the free drinks were on offer, so…” Aaron laughs at Chloe’s shamelessness. “So is that why I’m here? Someone to buy you drinks?” “No, babes!” Chloe argues, “You’re here cos we get on. Now come on, I want to dance.”
Taking Aaron’s hand, Chloe leads him further into the dance floor. She lets her hair down, moving her body to the music, but Aaron cannot stop looking at the guy staring at them. He glances behind him, over at where he saw the familiar face from earlier, but he is – thankfully – gone. Chloe notices Aaron’s unease and sighs. “What’s wrong?” she asks. Aaron shakes his head. “Nothing, just…” The song changes, and Chloe goes feral as Cardi B’s “WAP” begins to play. She moves towards Aaron, running a finger down his chest, before dropping to the floor and back up again. “Stop being so boring” Chloe tells him. Aaron nods. “Yeah, yeah, sorry” he says. He too begins to dance, and is surprised when Chloe pulls him closer and whispers into his ear. “I didn’t say how fit you look in that shirt” she says seductively. Aaron gulps, hard. “Thanks” he stammers. He looks at Chloe’s cheeky grin, before taking a swig of his beer.
“So I’ll see you tomorrow, at the house?” Zarah asks as she and Steph prepare to head home. Steph smiles. “Absolutely. You’re… sure about this?” she asks. “If I don’t do it now, I don’t know if I ever will” Zarah sighs. “Well how about we just go into it saying it’s a chance for me to meet the kids? We don’t have to tell them tomorrow, but at least I’ll have met them – they’ll know me. Then I can meet them a few times, they can get used to me… before we drop the bombshell?” Steph suggests. “And you’re okay with that?” asks Zarah, “You’re okay with waiting?” “I’d wait a thousand years for you, Zarah” Steph smiles, “It’s progress, ain’t it? It’s not like you’re keeping me at arm’s length – we’re just making it a transition for the kids. Maybe we can tell Kaiyen sooner – he’ll understand better.” “That’s… yeah. Yeah, I like that” Zarah says with a smile. She and Steph share another kiss. “Thank you for being understanding” she says. The pair hug for a moment, before Steph pulls away as her Uber arrives. “I’d best get back to the hotel. Message when you’re home, okay?” Zarah confirms that she will, watching as Steph gets into her Uber. With a big grin on her face, Zarah is pleased with herself – relieved that things are going well.
Later on, it is early hours of the morning, and a drunk Chloe and Aaron are stumbling out of the club. Chloe sighs as she leans against the wall. “We’re so drunk” she mumbles as Aaron yawns. “Come on, let’s get you home. I need my bed.” “Stay at mine” Chloe suggests. With a frown, Aaron tilts his head. “Hey?” “Not in like a… I ain’t gonna shag you. But Ronan, Emma and the kids are in Skegness; Fi’s gone to stay with a friend for the weekend; and Brady’s spending the night at Conor’s cos he doesn’t fancy a full weekend alone with me. Come on – I don’t feel like being alone. Please?” “You sure no-one’ll mind?” Aaron asks. Chloe scoffs. “Don’t be silly! Come on. The sofa’s really comfy(!)” she giggles. Agreeing to it, Aaron orders an Uber. As he looks up, his face pales: as he sees the guy he recognised from earlier, heading down an alleyway with a group of lads. Chloe doesn’t notice Aaron’s panicked expression, and soon spots an Uber across the road flashing at them. “Is that ours?” she asks. Aaron checks the registration, before nodding: he and Chloe get into the Uber, but Aaron cannot stop looking over at the alleyway… It is 6am on Sunday morning and at the hospital, Elyse is leaving the ED after her shift. She sighs, pushing her hair back into a ponytail before looking up at the morning sky. “Hey, wait up!” calls a voice, and Elyse turns to see Ewan jogging towards her. Elyse sighs. “What a shift, eh?” Ewan laughs. Elyse nods. “Yeah, I guess” she mutters. She continues walking. “You driving?” Ewan asks. “No, I’m getting the bus” says Elyse, “You?” “Yeah, I’m driving. Fancy a lift?” “I’m okay, thanks” mumbles Elyse. Ewan sighs. “What’s wrong?” he asks. “I dunno what you mean.” “You don’t seem to like me much, to be honest” says Ewan, “I know it's early days, but… it’d be nice to have made a friend on my first day.” “I don’t really do friends, Ewan. Especially not work friends.” “Why not change the habit of a life time?” he asks with a cheeky grin. Elyse rolls her eyes. “Just… be like everyone else, and think I’m a bitch, yeah?” “Do people think that cos you don’t let them see the nice side of you?” Ewan asks. Elyse looks him in the eyes. “What?” “The vibe I’ve got from you is you play up to this ‘bitch’ stereotype to try and push people away, but deep down… I reckon you’re a nice girl. Dr Saleem speaks highly of you.” “Dr Saleem recognises when people are good at their job” Elyse insists, “I don’t ‘play up’ to any stereotype. I’m just not a nice person… quicker you appreciate it, the easier it’ll be to hate me.” With that, Elyse walks off, as Ewan calls out to her: “So you don’t want a lift?”
Several hours later, Aaron and Chloe are conked out on the Kinsella’s sofas. Aaron opens his eyes to see light streaming in through the blinds. He blinks rapidly, grunting at his pounding head and the dry taste in his mouth. “Do you feel as awful as I do?” groans Chloe as she, too, awakens. Aaron just mumbles in response. “Never drinking again” he says, earning a laugh from Chloe. “Was a good night, though” she reasons. With a nod, Aaron confirms that it was. “You were pretty drunk, hey?” “Was I? Didn’t notice” a bemused Chloe says. “Yeah – saying how fit I looked in my shirt.” “Yeah, I must’ve been drunk.” Chloe flashes Aaron a cheeky grin, and Aaron feels his cheeks flush red.
Standing outside of the grounds in which Coventry Rangers FC play, Charlie nervously looks up at the stadium. His palms are clammy and his breathing laboured, nerves taking over. Eventually, he musters up the courage to go in, and approaches the sliding double doors at the front of the building. Entering reception, Charlie approaches the front desk and smiles at the receptionist. “Hey, I’ve got a meeting with James Garraway?” Charlie says. The receptionist, a man in his 60s, looks at Charlie for a second before nodding. “I’ll give him a call for you. Take a seat.” Charlie sits down in the reception area and begins to tap his leg impatiently, his anxiety growing once more. Soon, he is joined by a tall, broad man in his early 40s, with dark hair and a beard. “Alright?” greets the man in a thick Mancunian accent. Charlie nods. “Hey.” “You must be Charlie?” “Yeah, I…” “James Garraway. Jimbo to the lads.” James Garraway smirks as he looks at Charlie. “Welcome to the team” he winks.
At the Mistry family home, Zarah is in the kitchen cleaning when her nephew Kaiyen comes downstairs. Zarah smiles at him. “Morning” she greets. Kaiyen takes a seat at the table. “Good night out?” he asks. With a frown, Zarah says that she just went to the pub. “Right… I thought you were going for a meal?” “Yeah I did… at the pub.” With a knowing glance, Kaiyen decides to drop it. “What time’s Ari dropping the kids round?” he asks. “Anytime between now and 1. Hey, I’ve got a friend coming round for dinner today. You and Louie joining us?” “I will. I’ll ask Louie. Hey, what’s his name?” “Her name is Steph. She’s an old friend from uni, and used to work with Ari. Just thought it’d be nice to have someone round.” “Yeah, sound. Glad to see you’re keeping in touch with your friends, auntie Z.” He then stands up and moves towards the kettle. “Cup of tea?” “I was thinking of making some masala chai in a bit.” “I’d rather just a PG Tips” laughs Kaiyen. “Suit yourself!”
Suddenly, the doorbell rings, and Zarah smiles. “That’ll be the kids.” She heads for the front door as Kaiyen flicks the kettle on. Soon, he is joined by excited 6-year-old Alia Mistry. Her older brother, 14 y/o Zian Mistry, follows. “Good weekend?” Kaiyen asks. Zian nods. “Yeah was nice. Dad’s outside if you wanna say hi. He’s talking to mum.” “I reckon I’ll leave them to it” Kaiyen laughs. Alia rushes over to him and hugs him. “You okay Ali?” he giggles. Alia nods. “Can you take me to the park?” she asks. Zarah then enters. “No, Alia. We’ve got a guest coming round later.” Zian raises an eyebrow. “Dad?” he asks. “Erm… no” Zarah shakes her head, “She’s a friend of mine. Her name’s Steph. She’s a police officer – she used to work with your dad!” “Can I ride in her police car?” asks Alia excitedly. Laughing, Zarah says that she can’t – before asking the kids what they fancy to eat tonight. “What does Steph want?” Zian asks, clearly rattled. He leaves the kitchen, as Zarah sighs. “What’s his deal?” Kaiyen questions. With a shrug, Zarah shakes her head. “God knows. He’ll come round though – he always does.”
“Stop it, you’ll wake Elyse up” giggles Sophia Morgan as her shirtless boyfriend Damon Cullen kisses her neck in the kitchen of their flat. Damon shrugs. “We’ll have to be quiet then” he smirks, leaving a trail of kisses down Sophia’s neck and onto her collar bone. Sophia stops Damon. “Seriously, Damo, stop. She got in early hours this morning after a long shift at work… it’s not fair.” Pouting, Damon nods. “She’s such a c*ckblock” he says, “I still don’t see why you haven’t moved in with me.” “Cos I don’t fancy living with your nan and brother” laughs Sophia, “Besides, I like living with El. She’s my best mate.” The pair are then interrupted by a door opening, and Elyse emerges from her bedroom in her pyjamas. She stretches and yawns. “You’re up early” comments Sophia, “Everything okay?” “Just couldn’t sleep” sighs Elyse, moving towards the coffee machine.
She looks at Damon in his boxers and sighs. “Didn’t fancy wearing any clothes, Damon?” “Aren’t you enjoying the show?” Damon winks, “Thought you’d appreciate seeing a semi-naked man. Been a while, ain’t it?” Elyse rolls her eyes. “You’re so funny” she mocks. Sophia shoots Damon a glare. “Why don’t you go and get dressed, babes, and we’ll head out for some brunch?” Sophia suggests. Knowing when he isn’t wanted, Damon slinks off to Sophia’s bedroom. Sophia moves towards Elyse. “Ignore him” she opines softly, “You okay?” “Fine, just… long night at work” Elyse mumbles. “Fancy some food?” Sophia offers. With a shake of her head, Elyse tells Sophia that she’s not hungry. “Thanks, though.” Elyse picks up her coffee and takes a sip. She moves towards the sofa and throws herself down, as a concerned Sophia watches.
Walking down Marwood Road, Brady Kinsella is on the phone to his mum, Fi. “Yeah, mum, I’m just heading home now. I’m sure Chloe’s fine – she’s a big girl, she can look after herself. Alright, alright, I’ll let her know you’ll be home later. Okay…” He unlocks the front door, walking into the house and straight into the lounge: only to find Aaron and Chloe in a compromising position on the sofa, kissing and making love. They break apart, Aaron quickly grabbing a cushion to cover his modesty while Chloe pulls a blanket up over her naked body. Brady sighs. “Mum, I’ve gotta go.” He ends the call. “Welcome home(!)” grins a sheepish, embarrassed Chloe.
Back at the Coventry Rangers’ grounds, Charlie is being shown round by his new team’s manager, James. He smiles at some guys he passes. “The lads are really nice. Proper good guys. You’ll like ‘em” James assures him, “And these are the changing rooms. State of the art showers, of course.” “Really?” Charlie raises an eyebrow. James nods for a moment, before shaking his head. “Nah, course not! But they do the job. So… tell me about yourself, Charlie. What are you into?” “Erm… I dunno. Footie. I like music, too.” “The basics. Girls? You single?” Charlie shakes his head. “Err… nah.” “‘Nah’: you’re not single, or ‘nah’: you don’t like girls?” smirks James. Stammering, Charlie backtracks. “No, no, I do like girls! I just… I ain’t single. I have a girlfriend. Her name’s Mollie.” James smiles. “That’s what I like to hear. You’re a good-looking lad, I didn’t think you’d be single. Come on – I’ll show you the pitch.” James carries on walking, as a nervous Charlie hesitates for a moment, before following him.
In the Mistry home, Zarah is cooking in the kitchen. “Mummy, who’s your friend?” asks Alia as she runs into the kitchen. “I already told you, daddy used to work with her.” “Does Daddy know she’s coming?” Alia asks. Zarah shrugs. “No, Alia. Daddy doesn’t know.” “Why not?” “Because… because me and daddy aren’t together anymore, so he doesn’t need to know.” Alia presses her lips. “Daddy says that soon we will all be back together.” Feeling herself becoming angry, Zarah puts the spoon that she is holding down, and moves towards Alia. “Daddy shouldn’t be saying that to you, Alia” she says softly, “Me and dad, we’re not going to get back together, okay? But you can still go and stay with him, like you have been. You like your weekends away at dad’s, right?” “Yeah, it’s fun!” Alia exclaims. “Good. Now why don’t you go and put the TV on. Good girl.” As Alia leaves, Zarah sighs. The doorbell rings. “I’ll get it!” Kaiyen calls, coming down the stairs. He moves towards the front door and opens it to find a sheepish Steph standing on the doorstep, clutching a bottle of wine.
“Hey” greets Kaiyen. Steph smiles at him. “Hi!” she greets, perking up, “You must be Kaiyen?” Kaiyen nods, letting Steph into the house. Zarah comes out of the kitchen and smiles at her friend, secretly her girlfriend. “Hey Steph” Zarah greets, moving towards Steph and hugging her, being careful not to make it look too obvious. Steph hugs her back. “I brought you this” she says as the pair pull apart. Zarah looks at the bottle of red wine. “Oh lovely. We can have that with dinner. Are you having some, Kai?” “I’m not really drinking at the minute” Kaiyen admits, “But you guys go ahead. I’ll babysit!” laughs Kaiyen. Zarah then turns around and looks up the stairs. “Zian! Come down!” There is silence. Steph laughs. “Stropping?” she asks. “As always” sighs Zarah.
Brady is in the kitchen of the Kinsella home when he is joined by a sheepish Aaron and Chloe, now fully dressed. Brady looks at them with disgust and shakes his head. “Seriously?” he asks, “What was that?” “Do you need me to explain the birds and the bees to you, bro?” giggles Aaron, earning himself a glare from Brady, and a chuckle from Chloe. Chloe sighs at her cousin’s seriousness. “Come on, Brades, lighten up! We were just havin’ a bit of fun!” “You were having sex on our sofa!” Brady tuts, “The kids sit there! Mum sits there!” “We’d have cleaned up” Chloe rolls her eyes, “Don’t act like you’ve never done it!” “Funnily enough, Chloe, when I have sex, I usually do it in a bed. You heard of that before?” “Whose bed am I supposed to use, Fi’s(?)” spits Chloe. Brady looks her up and down. “Maybe if you wanna be bringing men back, you should find your own place.”
Shaking her head with a tut, Chloe turns away from him. “You ain’t telling me how to live my life” Chloe warns, turning back around, “If I want to sleep with my friend, I will do. If I want to go out and dance all night, I will do. You’re not my dad! Funnily enough, he’s dead!” Realising she has said too much, Chloe’s lip quivers. Brady’s eyes widen. “Marcus is dead?” he whispers. Chloe turns to Aaron. “You should go” she says, guiding him out of the kitchen and down the hallway, “I had a good night – and morning – but…” “Call me?” Aaron offers. Chloe looks at him and sighs. “Yeah. Yeah, maybe. I’ll see you later.” Pushing Aaron out the door, Chloe is relieved when he finally leaves, breathing a sigh of relief. She turns back to see Brady standing there. “Why didn’t you tell us uncle Marcus was dead?” asks Brady softly.
Meanwhile, at Elyse and Sophia’s flat, Elyse is relaxing on the sofa when someone knocks on the door, and it opens. Elyse’s mother Leona Anderson enters, a smile on her face. “Sorry, I saw Sophia on the way out and she let me up. Thought I’d pop in and say hello. I’ve got some news, too.” Elyse nods, turning her attention back to the TV. “Good shift last night?” Leona asks. Pausing the TV, Elyse sighs. “Yeah, was alright” she mutters. Leona takes a seat beside her and frowns. “What’s up, love?” Leona asks. Elyse shrugs, fighting back tears. “I don’t… I dunno” she admits, “I really don’t.” “Hey, come here.” Leona pulls Elyse into a hug, “Where’s all this come from?” “Just… work, I guess. Lack of sleep. Seeing Sophia and Damon all over each other, happy… makes me realise that my life’s going nowhere. I just work, work and work. I don’t have a boyfriend, I have barely any friends aside from Soph… I’m a mess.” Rubbing Elyse’s hair, Leona sighs. “You aren’t a mess” Leona tells her, “You have a career. You have a flat. You don’t need a boyfriend to have a successful life!” “I’d like one, though” Elyse admits, “Or just… just someone. Someone there to talk to. About my bad day at work, or the patient I saved… instead, when I like a boy, I just mess it up.”
Leona sighs. “Brady?” she asks. Elyse nods. “I kept in contact with him, when he was in prison” Elyse admits, “I liked him. I thought he liked me.” Elyse then rolls her wet eyes, “Look at me. I’m 27 and I’m crying over men.” “We’ve all cried over a boy in our life” Leona sighs, “Sometimes I think men are only there to make us cry and make us angry.” She hugs her daughter. “I’m so proud of you” whispers Leona, “You and your siblings, you make me proud every day. Don’t forget that.” Elyse thanks Leona, hugging her back, before wiping her eyes. “Come on then” she laughs, “What’s your news?” “It’s, er… it seems a bit small now, but – it’s Kelsey. She’s coming home next week.” Elyse smiles. “Aw really? That’s lovely” she says – they are talking about Elyse’s half-sister Kelsey, Leona and Paul’s daughter. Leona nods. “Yeah, turns out she’s transferring unis and is moving to St. Stephen’s. So we’ll be seeing a lot more of her.” “I’m glad, mum” Elyse says, “I know you’ve struggled with her living in London.” Leona rubs Elyse’s shoulder supportively as the pair sit in silence for a moment.
“How was it?” asks Mollie excitedly as she lets her boyfriend Charlie into her house. Charlie nods. “Yeah, yeah, good!” he says enthusiastically, “Been invited to some event in a few weeks. Apparently a few of the lads from the team’ll be there so it’s a good opportunity for me to meet them.” “That’s nice” Mollie says, “Did you meet anyone today?” “Just my manager. Jimbo, his name is.” “Bit of a weird name” giggles Mollie. “Well he was a weird guy. He seemed sound, don’t get me wrong, but…” “Is that Jimbo Garraway?” asks a passing Matt. Charlie raises an eyebrow. “You know him?” “He’s a legend!” Matt laughs, “Used to play for Rangers before he became their manager. I met him once, at a meet and greet in town. Proper lad.” “Dad’s a big Cov Rangers fan” Mollie rolls her eyes. Charlie nods. “He seemed nice, to be fair. Funny.” “He could’ve had a career in comedy, mate. Proper funny guy” Matt said.
The trio are now in the kitchen. “Who’s this?” asks Mollie’s mum Imogen Preston. “Jimbo Garraway, former Rangers player.” “Ain’t he the one who was in the news a few years ago cos he cheated on his wife with those two models?” Imogen asks with a raised eyebrow. Matt shrugs. “When you’re as much of a legend as Jimbo…” “Dad!” Mollie scoffs, “Cheating ain’t right, no matter how much of a ‘legend’ you are. Pig.” Matt chuckles, as Imogen also glares at him. Mollie turns back to Charlie. “So when’s your first game?” “Few weeks. Here, you fancy going to The Crown? I’m feeling a celebratory pint…” Smiling, Mollie tells Charlie that she’d love it, before grabbing her handbag as Charlie watches Matt lean over and kiss Imogen passionately.
Zarah, Steph, Kaiyen, Zian and Alia have settled down for dinner. Kaiyen watches as Zarah pours a healthy helping of red wine into a glass for Steph. “This is lovely, Zar” smiles Steph. Zarah thanks Steph, before looking at Kaiyen, who is pushing the food round his plate. “Not a fan, Kai?” “Just not too hungry” Kaiyen covers, shaking his head, “I’ll eat it though, it’s lush.” “I’ll have yours if you don’t want it” Zian pipes up. Zarah scoffs. “Thought you were in a mood?” she asks. Zian shrugs. “It’s food, innit. You eating it or not Kai?” “Yes, I’m eating it” a stressed Kaiyen snaps. Zian rolls his eyes. “So are you excited for year 10, Zian?” asks Steph, making conversation. Zian looks her in the eyes. “How did you know I was in year 10?” he asks. “I have a niece who’s the same age as you, and she’s going into year 10.” “Oh. Yeah, I’m excited, I guess. I only know like three people from my school, but…” “I’ve told him you don’t need loads of friends, just a few” Zarah says, “And that Kinsella lad is lovely. Finn.”
“Yeah, he’s nice” Zian smiles, “He’s trying to encourage me to join the football team this year.” “Do you like football?” Steph asks. Zian nods enthusiastically. “I’m quite good, too.” “I’m a season ticket-holder for Villa” Steph smiles, “Maybe I can take you to a match?” Zian’s eyes light up. “Really?” “Yeah, sure. If your mum don’t mind.” “No, course not” Zarah smiles, “He used to go with his dad when he was little, but Ari’s not been able to take him for a while.” “Can Finn come?” Zian asks his mum. Zarah looks at Steph. “If his mum and dad let him, and if Steph don’t mind.” “I’ll probably have to have a few chats with the parents first” laughs Steph, “But we’ll see what they say.” “You’re a cop… you’re basically the safest person we can go with!” claims Zian, earning himself a laugh from Zarah and Steph. Kaiyen then excuses himself from the table. He heads upstairs and towards the bathroom, kneeling down in front of the toilet. Leaning over the toilet, Kaiyen takes a deep breath, before pushing his fingers to the back of his throat. After some retching, he begins to vomit…
At The Rose and Crown, landlord Paul Gordon is behind the bar, talking to his fiancée, Leona. Leona is telling Paul about her plans to organise a speed dating night in a few weeks. Paul smiles. “Sounds good. Any particular reason?” “Just thought it’d be nice” she says, “Summer’s over now – no-one wants to go into autumn and winter without someone to hold them at night. It gets cold, Paul!” Laughing, Paul tells Leona it sounds good – before spotting his son Aaron doing the walk of shame. “The wanderer returns” smirks Paul as a hungover Aaron brushes off Paul’s teasing. “Don’t, please, dad – I’m fragile” he sighs. Paul nods. “Yeah? Tired too, I bet. What was her name?” “I stayed with one of the lads” Aaron lies, “Kipped on his sofa.” “Don’t kid a kidder” warns Paul. “Why are you so interested in my love life?” smirks Aaron, and Paul holds his hands up. “Just find it funny, that’s all!” Aaron then nods. “I’m gonna head upstairs to bed. I’m knackered.” “Oh before you go, Aaron. Your sister called” Leona reveals. Aaron frowns. “Is Kels alright?” “Yeah, yeah, she’s great” Leona says, “She’s coming home next week. Moving back.” Aaron rolls his eyes. “Great – that’s another person making jibes about my sex life!” With a smirk on his face, secretly pleased by his half-sister’s return, Aaron heads upstairs, as Leona turns to Paul. “I can’t wait to have our little girl home” says Paul wistfully, pulling Leona into a hug. Leona nods. “Me neither.”
Chloe is sitting on the sofa in the Kinsella living room as Brady sits opposite her on a different sofa. He taps his knee. “I’ll call mum, check if she knows” Brady says, believing his marital uncle Marcus to be dead. Chloe shakes her head. “Don’t do that” she insists, “I… I didn’t mean it.” “Eh?” “I didn’t… I misspoke. He’s not, like… properly dead.” Raising an eyebrow, Brady shakes his head. “I don’t understand, Chlo…” Taking a deep breath, Chloe looks Brady in the eyes. “I… I just said it cos he’s dead to me.” She fiddles with her sweaty hands, “Before I left, we had an argument. Me, mum and dad. We said some things, things we can’t take back, and… and so I told dad he was dead to me. That’s what I meant. He’s not really dead – call him, if you like – but to me, he is.” Raising an eyebrow and confused, Brady sighs. “Right. Well… okay.” Not knowing what to say, Brady stands up. “Just don’t do it again, alright, Chlo? If mum finds out… she’ll go mad.” He is about to leave the room, but he turns back to her. “And you can do better than Aaron Gordon. Trust me – the kid’s a mess.” “People change” Chloe says, arching an eyebrow, “Isn’t that your mantra?” Laughing, Brady nods. “Touché.” He leaves the room, as Chloe takes a deep breath, standing up and moving towards the mirror. She looks at herself in the mirror, and hates what she sees…
Regular Cast: Aaron Gordon: Jack James Ryan Brady Kinsella: Danny Walters Charlie Cullen: Billy Price Chloe Hall: Charlotte Jordan Damon Cullen: Matthew James-Bailey Elyse Anderson: Andrea Ali Ewan Price: Richard Wisker Imogen Preston: Catherine Tyldesley Kaiyen Chadha: Adam Hussain Leona Anderson: Diane Parish Louie Renshaw: Noah Valentine Matthew “Matt” Preston: David Tag Mollie Preston: Rosie Bentham Paul Gordon: Robert Beck Sophia Morgan: Tilly Keeper Stephanie “Steph” Sykes: Lucy Dixon Dr Zarah Mistry: Bhavna Limbachia
Recurring Cast: Alia Mistry: Uncredited Dr Bakshi Saleem: Bharti Patel Jacob “Jake” Howell: Aedan Duckworth James Garraway: Gary Lucy Martha Dobbs: Lin Blakley Zian Mistry: Juhaim Rasul Choudhury
Guest Cast: PC Jada Nixon: Uncredited
• ORIGINAL PUBLICATION: 2023.09.18
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Dec 31, 2023 14:47:56 GMT
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Dec 31, 2023 14:48:29 GMT
Wednesday 13th September 2023
Early on a weekday morning, Emma Kinsella is preparing packed lunches for her two children. She yawns as she butters some bread. “Tell me why I thought it would be a good idea to get back from our holiday the night before the kids returned to school” Emma questions. Her husband Ronan Kinsella shrugs his shoulders as he finishes a cup of tea. “We had fun though, didn’t we?” he smiles. Emma nods. “Yeah, we did. Hadn’t you better go and open up the garage?” “Yeah, I’m going now. I’ll catch you later – love you.” Kissing Emma’s cheek as he passes, Ronan leaves. Emma places the sandwiches she has made into some lunch boxes, before moving through to the living room, where her 14-year-old son Finlay ‘Finn’ Kinsella is sat watching TV in his school uniform. “Here you go Finn” Emma smiles, handing Finn his lunch box. Finn turns his nose up at it. “I was just gonna go to the canteen” he says.
“But I’ve made you lunch… what’s the point in wasting money?” “All my friends’ll be getting food at school, I don’t wanna be the only one with sandwiches” sighs Finn. Shaking her head, Emma eventually nods. “Okay, okay, fine. But tomorrow, you’re taking a packed lunch, alright?” Finn gets up and grabs his school bag. “Yeah. I’m gonna go meet Zian and the girls. See you later mum.” With that, Finn rushes out of the house. Emma sighs, before calling her daughter Aoife down. Running down Marwood Road, Finn sees his friend Zian Mistry standing at the end of the road. He greets Finn with a handshake. “Alright mate?” asks Zian. Finn nods. “Yeah, yeah. You ready for an amazing year at Ashbury High(?)” Finn quips. Zian sighs. “Ready as I’ll ever be.” Poppy Preston then approaches. “Come on, Leah’s waiting” Poppy says. Finn and Zian jog to catch up with her, and the trio begin to move towards Marwood Road.
Inside The Rose and Crown, landlady Leona Anderson enters the living room of the flat above the pub, and smiles at her fiancé Paul Gordon. “Kelsey’s room’s all made up” Leona says proudly, “I can’t believe it’ll just be a few more days and we’ll have her back where she belongs.” Paul places his cup of tea down on the coffee table. “Just Ryan and Liv missing, and we’d have all our kids around.” Sighing, Leona nods. “I worry about Elyse, y’know” she admits, “I’m worried she’s feeling left out, living away from the family.” “I’m sure she’s appreciating her own space” laughs Paul, “And besides, she has Sophia.” “Yeah, who seems more preoccupied with Damon at the minute” sighs Leona, “I don’t know, it’s just a feeling I’ve got…” “Don’t worry about Elyse” Paul insists, “If anyone can look after themselves and decide what path suits them, it’s her. She’s a strong girl. If she wanted to come home, she’d let us know.” With a nod, Leona concedes that Paul is right. “Anyway, better get my notebook out – I’ve got a speed dating night to plan!” giggles Leona, “I’m thinking Friday night?” “I thought you said in a few weeks? It’s a bit short notice…” “What better time than ASAP?” questions Leona, “And I’ve not got long, which is why I’d better get these posters up!” Leona then darts from the room with a new-found sense of purpose as Paul sighs.
“I was thinking after college, we could go for a walk? Nice little romantic stroll down the canal… I feel like I’ve barely seen you” sighs teenager Lily Preston as she and boyfriend Curtis Gordon walk into college. Curtis nods. “Yeah, sounds good” he says, his thoughts elsewhere. Lily stops in her tracks and looks at Curtis, who turns to face her. “Lils?” “What’s wrong?” asks Lily. Curtis shrugs. “Just not thrilled to be back at college” he sighs, “I kinda enjoyed my summer.” “So did I… but at least we’re together, right?” Lily says. Curtis nods. “Course.” The pair share a kiss. “What did you do this summer, Preston?” asks a girl as she passes. Her friend looks Lily up and down. “Stuffed her face by the looks of it. Look at all that podge!” As the girls snigger, Lily is taken aback by the comments, and rubs her arm nervously. Curtis squeezes her hand. “Ignore them” he says, “You look beautiful. You’ve not put on any weight at all.” Smiling, Lily and Curtis link hands and continue into college.
Also entering the college, Noah Harding looks sheepish, like he would rather be anywhere else. He sighs as he looks up at the building in front of him. “Are you sure you’re okay to be here?” asks the principal, Erica Bailey, as she approaches Noah. Noah smiles at her. “I’d rather just get on with my work” Noah admits, “No point falling behind just cos my dad’s dead.” Erica nods. “Well, if you need anything – anything at all – don’t hesitate to ask, okay? I’m sorry to hear about your father.” As Erica leaves, Noah takes a deep breath. “Noah!” calls a voice, and Noah turns to see his secret ex-boyfriend Zachary ‘Zack’ Richards jogging towards him. Zack smiles. “Excited?” he asks. Noah shrugs. “It’ll be a good distraction” he says. Zack nods, wrapping an arm around Noah’s shoulder as the pair make their way through the main doors. From afar, Dylan Morgan watches, placing his bike into the bike shed and scowling.
Standing by the front desk in Ashbury Police Station, PC Ethan Bowers is looking down at his phone, pensively staring at the text chain he has with secret lover ‘Nathan’. As he looks at the barrage of undelivered messages begging for Nathan’s forgiveness, it becomes clear that Nathan has blocked him. Sighing, Ethan pockets his phone, as a woman in a suit approaches: DI Stephanie ‘Steph’ Sykes. Steph smiles at Ethan. “Morning” she greets, placing her takeaway coffee down on the desk. Ethan nods. “Alright?” “I’m Steph Sykes, new DI. Just transferred from Brum.” With a smile, Ethan welcomes Steph. “You moved from Birmingham then?” “Yep. Fancied a change. It’s my first day today, so just trying to get to know everybody. You worked here long?” “About four years” Ethan admits, “Moved down from Scotland.” “I figured” laughs Steph, “The accent.” Ethan chuckles, and the pair are soon interrupted by the presence of another officer, who tells them that they are both needed in the interview room. Steph turns to Ethan. “That’s what I came to tell you… I need you to sit in on an interview with me.” Nodding, Ethan tells Steph that’s fine, before following after her.
Meanwhile, friends Louie Renshaw and Kaiyen Chadha stand outside of No.3 Oakford Avenue, Kaiyen clutching a set of keys. He looks up at the house. “This is it” he smiles, a look of pride on his face, “Our new home.” Excitedly, the boys move towards the front door, and push it open. Louie looks around the house – there is an extension on the back with an extra bedroom, as well as three bedrooms upstairs, and the attic is also converted into two rooms. Kaiyen looks around one of the front bedrooms and nods. “This one’s mine” he claims. The pair are soon joined by a third person, as their friend Sakina Gulati makes her presence known. “Welcome home, boys” she grins, having agreed to become their housemate. Louie rushes to hug Sakina, having not seen her for weeks, and the trio share a united moment.
In the gym at the high school, Zian and Finn are in their PE kit, standing by the basketball hoops, chatting. They are soon joined by Poppy and her friend Leah Hayton. “That new PE teacher’s well fit!” Poppy says, looking over at him. Finn nods. “Mr Brennan’s nice.” “Not sure about fit though, Poppy” laughs Zian. Poppy rolls her eyes. “That’s cos you ain’t gay, Zian!” she claims, before turning to Leah. “What do you think, Leah?” “Yeah. Yeah, he’s alright… nice legs!” As the girls giggle, new PE teacher Caleb Brennan approaches them. “I don’t see you lot warming up” Caleb says with a smirk, looking at Finn in particular, “I expected better from the captain of the footie team.” “Hey, when are try-outs for the team, sir?” Finn asks, nudging Zian. Caleb shrugs. “I’m not sure. Now come on, get warming up!” As Caleb walks off, Poppy sighs dreamily. “He’s perfect” she groans, earning a laugh from Zian and Finn.
On Marwood Road, Leona is putting up posters for The Rose and Crown’s speed dating night. Her daughter Elyse Anderson exits her home, the flat above salon Touch of Glam, and smiles at her mum. “I got your text” Elyse says, moving towards Leona. With a grin on her face, Leona points to the poster, which Elyse reads. “Speed dating night?” she frowns. Leona nods. “Yep! I listened to what you said the other day, and I thought… what better way to find you a man than to round up all the eligible singles in the area!” Elyse looks aghast. “Oh no, you ain’t dragging me to this!” Elyse warns. Leona scoffs. “Come on, El, what’s the harm?” “I’ll look like I’m desperate!” “Well, your love life is hardly thriving, is it? Come on, it’s a laugh! I’ll throw in a free cocktail.” “The whole bar could be free all night and you still wouldn’t get me through those doors!” says Elyse, shaking her head, “I refuse.” “Invite the girls along, make a night of it!”
“Sophia’s in a committed relationship, mum, and I don’t exactly have any other friends!” Leona then spots Chloe Hall passing alongside her aunt Fiona ‘Fi’ Kinsella. “You’ll come, won’t you Chloe?” calls out Leona. Chloe frowns. “To what?” Leona hands her a leaflet. “Speed dating night, Friday night! All the local hotties will be there!” Fi stifles a chuckle. “Am I invited?” she asks. Leona nods. “More the merrier! I was just trying to convince my daughter to attend, but she seems to think no-one will come.” “I didn’t say that…” “Yeah, I’ll be there” Chloe smiles, “Could be a laugh.” “Well why don’t you tag along with Chloe, Elyse?” Fi offers. Elyse looks unsure. “Yeah, feel free” Chloe smiles. Eventually, Elyse sighs. “Fine!” she relents, “Fine, I’ll come.” “It’s a date” Chloe says, “One that’ll hopefully end in a date!” With a smile on her face, Leona tells Elyse that she cannot wait.
“How’s your first day back going?” asks Zack as he meets Noah in the corridor in-between classes. Noah nods. “Alright! Helps that I’m basically Mr Johnson’s favourite student.” “Teacher’s pet” teases Zack, earning himself a playful push from Noah. “I can’t help that I’m charming!” he smirks. Zack nods. “I’m so bored of theory work. I just want to get out onto the basketball court” sighs Zack, a sports student. He then spots Dylan walking past with a bunch of lads, “That arsehole can keep away from me, though.” Noah turns and sees Dylan, sighing. “Just ignore him, Zack” Noah urges, “He’s not worth your time.” “He keeps trying to talk to me, won’t back off. I’m gonna go for him if he carries on.” With a sigh, Noah places a hand on Zack’s arm. “Zack, please.”
Zack looks into Noah’s eyes and nods. “Yeah, sorry. I’ll just avoid him.” Noah then sees his friend Lily and tells Zack he will catch him later. Approaching Lily, Noah places his hands on her shoulder. “Alright Lil?” he asks. Lily smiles at him. “I’m good… you and Zack alright? Seemed… cosy.” “We’re just mates” Noah insists, “I’m just thankful he’s still talking to me after my birthday.” “He was an arse to you! But I’m glad he’s apologised. No sign of getting back together then?” asks Lily. Noah shakes his head. “I don’t reckon so… I think that ship’s sailed. No thanks to Dylan Morgan.” “Ignore him, he’s a pig. Look, I’ve got English next, and I need to be on time cos if I have to repeat it one more time I’m going to go mad – but I’ll see you at lunch, yeah?”
Back at the police station, Ethan and Steph are conducting an interview with the suspect of a mugging. Ethan is growing frustrated with the suspect’s cocky nature, but Steph is keeping her cool, not letting him wind her up. “So is there anyone who can back up your claims about where you were when the attack took place?” Steph asks, twirling a pen round her fingertips. The suspect shrugs his shoulders. “No comment” he says smugly. Ethan sighs. “We ain’t getting anywhere” he says to his colleague. Steph, determined to carry on, leans forward. “You’ve already given us an answer on where you supposedly were, so what’s the point in now changing to ‘no comment’… all we have to do is prove you weren’t where you said you were, and then…”
Suddenly, the door opens, and Nathan Finch walks in, in a suit. “Don’t say anymore” Nathan declares, taking a seat beside the suspect. Ethan looks at him with disgust. “What are you doing here?” he asks. Nathan smirks as he glances up at Ethan. “Mr Henning is my client. And before we continue, I’d like a second to talk to my client… alone.” Sighing, Steph suspends the interview, grabbing her paperwork and getting up. Ethan follows after her, glancing back at a smug-looking Nathan as he leaves. Once they are out of the interview room, Steph turns to Ethan. “You know him?” she asks. Ethan sighs. “He’s my ex” he says, deflated, and Steph chuckles. “Cop and a lawyer. Bet that was some interesting pillow talk.” Steph walks off, leaving Ethan to stew. It is lunch time, and at the college, Lily is sitting in the cafeteria with her boyfriend Curtis and friend, Amber Morgan. The trio are soon joined by Noah. “Alright No?” greets Amber as she shuffles up to let her friend sit beside her. Noah smiles at the group. “Hey. You guys don’t mind if Zack joins us in a bit, do ya?” he questions. “Not at all” Lily insists. Curtis looks at Noah. “I’m sorry to hear about your dad” he says, the first time he has talked to Noah in a while. Noah forces a smile. “Cheers, Curtis” he says gently. Lily then sighs. “I’m gonna run to the bathroom, I feel a bit sick.” “College canteen food playing havoc on your stomach?” teases Amber. Lily nods. “Something like that.” Getting up, she rushes off, as Curtis awkwardly watches.
Zack then approaches. “Hey” he says, taking a seat beside Amber, choosing not to sit next to Noah. Curtis and Amber greet him, followed by Noah. “Good to see you” Curtis says, having not seen him since Noah’s birthday party, when Curtis’ best mate Dylan claimed Zack was in a gay relationship, and Lily drank so much alcohol that she collapsed. Zack nods. “Yeah… good summer?” The gang begin to chat as Dylan passes with his food. He takes a look at the group before approaching a group of lads at another table, and taking a seat. “Why’s Curtis sitting with Noah Hard-on-for-lads?” sneers one of them. Dylan shrugs. “Cos he’s whipped by that girl of his” he sighs.
Back at the police station, Ethan is nervously clock-watching as he stands by the front desk. Soon, Steph and another officer leave the interview room, followed closely by Nathan and his client. “Like getting blood out of a stone” Steph mutters to Ethan as she passes. The client turns to Nathan, thanking him, and Nathan nods. “No worries. I’ll see you later.” As the client leaves, Nathan turns to Ethan and smiles. “Surprise(!)” he mocks. Ethan shakes his head. “Why have you been ignoring me, Nathan?” Ethan asks. Nathan presses his lips. “I’ve not been ignoring you. I’ve not been getting your messages… cos I’ve blocked you. On all platforms, even Grindr. Not that you should be on there, settled-down man and all that…” “You weren’t complaining when you were in my bed” Ethan responds. “Your bed, my bed, your sofa… doesn’t matter where we did it, Ethan: it was wrong. Men like you think they can just get what they want without any consequences, but I’m not going to be your bit on the side any longer.” Nathan’s phone then buzzes. He checks it and smirks. “I’ve got a meeting. Followed by a Grindr date. Meanwhile, you’re going home to an empty apartment… ready meal for one, empty bed – it’s sad really. But you enjoy.” Patting Ethan’s shoulder, Nathan walks off, as Ethan fumes.
“How’s your first day going?” asks English teacher Alfred ‘Alf’ Preston in the staff room at Ashbury High. New PE teacher Caleb nods. “It’s going good. The year 10s are a delight.” “I have them after lunch… banes of my existence!” sighs Alf, “I had the same class last year: trying to teach them the GCSE syllabus has been a nightmare. Still, I had my first lesson with my new year 9s today, and they were even worse!” “I’m sure they aren’t that bad” laughs Caleb. “Every year, the students get thicker. I blame the primary schools: they must’ve given up!” As Alf walks away, Caleb chuckles.
Meanwhile, Leona is behind the bar of The Rose and Crown when Fi approaches. “So you had much interest in this speed dating night, then?” she asks. With a titter, Leona reveals that she’s handed out a fair few leaflets. “Not that it guarantees them coming… but as long as a few show up, I’ll be happy.” “Have you posted on social media? Our Finn’s always going on about social media and how good it is. And that Amber Morgan, she’s got a massive following, hasn’t she? You could always ask her to share something.” “What, to a load of teenagers?” sighs Leona. “True! But I’m sure your Elyse has a good amount of followers. Get her to post about it.” The front door opens, and Louie and Kaiyen enter alongside Sakina. “So, thoughts on the new place?” Louie questions as he takes a seat in a booth. Sakina nods. “Looking good. We need to find more housemates, though. The rent for that place between the three of us is going to be extortionate.” “I’ve asked my mate Harry, but he’s not got back to me. But even then… we’re short.” “There’s what, six rooms? That’s three more people to find” Kaiyen sighs. “What about Mollie? Surely she’d appreciate some space away from her family?” Sakina suggests. Kaiyen shrugs. “Could be worth a shout.” “Do you wanna drop her a message? I’ll message Harry again, see if he’s about.” As the students discuss their predicament, Sakina ignores a text on her phone.
Back at the school, Finn and Poppy are sitting at the back of a class, listening to teacher Alf Preston (Poppy’s grandfather) drone on at the front. Finn yawns as he turns to Poppy. “How about we bunk off next period?” he suggests, “Cheeky little early finish?” “It’s the last period, Finn” Poppy pouts, “What’s the point?” “Thought I could text Zian, get him to skip too, and we can head to the park?” “And what about Leah?” “She’s too much of a goody-two-shoes to even consider skipping” sighs Finn, “And she’d probably just grass us in if we told her. Come on, don’t be boring…” “I just kinda wanted to knuckle down this year. We’ve got our GCSEs coming up next year…” “That’s ages away, Popps” Finn pouts. Sighing, Poppy nods. “Okay… alright, yeah, let’s skip.” With a smile on his face, Finn makes a celebratory fist: just as Alf turns his attention to the teens and tells them to concentrate.
Elsewhere, Ethan is leaving the police station, having finished his shift. Steph smiles at him as he passes her on the way out. “Have a nice night” Steph says. Ethan nods. “Cheers. Hey… that guy from earlier, the mugging. Any news?” “He’s definitely our guy, but… we just can’t pin him. That solicitor of his, he’s good. Bet you two made a good team.” “Yeah. Yeah, we did” says Ethan wistfully, “Hey, if you ever fancy a drink… I know it’s not the most professional, you being my boss and all, but…” “That’d be nice” Steph smiles, “Us gays have got to stick together, eh?” she quips. Ethan laughs. “Yeah… yeah.” He then leaves, as Steph heads inside. Once Ethan is out, he looks down at his phone, to see he has a message from Kyle, asking to call him once he has finished work.
“First day done and dusted” smiles Lily as she and Curtis walk out of Ashbury Community College alongside Amber, who sighs. “I’m knackered, I need my bed.” “Yeah, me too” yawns Curtis. Lily pouts. “So you don’t wanna go on our walk then?” Lily asks. Curtis turns to face Lily. “Erm… maybe we should give it a miss. But hey, how about Friday after college, we go on a date, just me and you? I’ll plan it all, you won’t have to lift a finger?” suggests Curtis. With a nod, Lily tells her boyfriend that she would like that, and the pair kiss. Also leaving college, Noah and Zack are walking together. “Did I tell you that it’s nice to see you?” Zack asks. Noah smiles at him. “You might’ve, but… it’s nice to hear it again.” “Well, let it be known… it’s nice to see you.” The boys stop walking. “Fancy coming back to mine? I can’t say mum’ll be up to cooking you any tea, and nan might chat your head off, but maybe we can order something. Sit in my room, play Call of Duty or watch a movie… like the old days.” Nodding, Zack grins. “Yeah, I’d like that” he says. Noah smiles, and the boys head off.
Leona is in the flat above The Rose and Crown, on the phone to her youngest daughter, Kelsey. “I can’t wait to have you back darling” beams Leona, “It’s not felt right without you. I’ve set your room up, so… you’re coming on Friday? No, no, that’s fine. We’re having an event on Friday, but it’ll be fine. Okay, I’ll see you then. I love you.” Hanging up, Leona cannot contain her smile. Her fiancé Paul soon joins her. “That Kelsey?” he asks. Leona nods. “Yep! She’s coming back on Friday.” “Don’t you think that means we should rearrange the speed dating night?” “I’ve already handed out flyers and put up posters now, Paul. We’ll just have to juggle her arrival with the event. Maybe we can do something Saturday as a family to celebrate her coming home.” Nodding, Paul says that that would be nice. “I’ll let the boys know, you tell Elyse?” Elyse herself then enters. “What’s this?” she asks. Paul and Leona turn to face her. “Family meal, Saturday evening. To celebrate Kelsey coming home.” “Sounds good. Providing I’m not hungover, and/or curled up in bed with the hot hunk I meet on Friday night.” “I’m sure you could bring him along… trial by fire!” Paul laughs. Scoffing, Elyse says that she’d rather stick pins in her eyes than bring a one-night stand to a family event.
Downstairs, Kaiyen, Louie and Sakina are enjoying a drink together. Louie squeals excitedly as he puts his phone down on the table. “Harry’s just messaged back. He’s in Yorkshire until the end of next week but he’d love to take up a room. Apparently he found temporary accommodation but hasn’t signed the contract yet, and would rather live with us!” “Amazing!” Kaiyen breathes a sigh of relief, “Just two more to go.” “Shame it’s only guys so far” pouts Sakina, “I very much feel like the odd one out.” “I’m sure we can find some girls to move in” says Kaiyen, “We still need to wait for Mollie’s reply. That’ll be another girl.” “I’m joking” laughs Sakina, “I don’t mind living with a bunch of blokes.” “No, but it’d be nice to have a girl for you to hang with” Kaiyen reasons. He looks to Louie. “What do you think?” “I don’t mind what gender our last two housemates are, as long as we find some” Louie says, “Even with four of us, the rent’s gonna be a bit steep…” “We’ll find someone” Sakina insists, “Even if we have to interview strangers. It’s not like there’s a shortage of students in the area!” “Cutting it a bit fine though, Saks” sighs Kaiyen, “Maybe I should ask my parents for a loan… see if they can cover the first few months until we find someone.” “Let’s find out if Mollie’s up for it first” Louie suggests, “We could be stressing about nothing.” He then tells the gang he wants another drink – before getting up and heading to the bar, leaving Kaiyen with Sakina.
Meanwhile, outside of Ashbury High, teenagers Finn and Poppy are nervously looking around them, having bunked off their final lesson. They are soon joined by newcomer Zian. “This is exciting” Zian chuckles as he swings his backpack over his shoulder. The trio begin to rush away from the school. “Have you never bunked off before, Zee?” asks a bemused Finn. “Course I have! Just not since being here… tryna keep a good reputation, ain’t I?” he fronts. “I still feel off about not inviting Leah” sighs Poppy. “She’s a liability, Poppy. I love the girl, don’t get me wrong, but… like I said, she’s a teacher’s pet. Some people just aren’t cut out for it.” With a sigh, Poppy nods in agreement – before the teens turn a corner, now out of sight of the school. Zian sighs. “My mum’ll kill me if she finds out.” “It’s my dad I’m worried about” Poppy adds. “Don’t be such wusses!” Finn exclaims, “Come on, guys… we’re nearly 15. If we want to ditch school, we can ditch school!” “Yeah, you’re right” Poppy manages, “Now come on – let’s go to the park.” Picking up the pace, the teenagers head off.
Sitting in Noah’s room, Zack and Noah are playing on Noah’s PlayStation 5. Noah groans as he is killed on Call of Duty. “I swear I get worse at this game every time I play!” Noah sighs, slamming his controller down on the bed. Zack laughs. “I’m just too good” he claims, a smirk on his face. Rolling his eyes, Noah shakes his head. “You’re big-headed” he teases. Zack then notices a framed photo of Noah and his dad Dave. “Is that new?” Zack asks, nodding towards the photo. Noah follows his gaze. “Erm… no. No, I had it framed a while ago. Think it was my 16th, actually. Me and my dad… we got on well.” “That’s cute” Zack says, “It’s good you had a good bond.” “He was my hero” Noah sighs sadly, “Still is, really. I was blessed to have a dad like him.” Noah feels tears filling his eyes. Zack reaches out for his hand. “I didn’t mean to upset you” he insists. Noah wipes the tears from his eyes. “No, it’s fine… it’s good to cry, ain’t it? Gets all the emotions out…” “Still, there’s a time and a place. I shouldn’t have brought it up.”
“I like talking about him” Noah says, “I don’t want to forget him.” “How could you?” Zack asks, “He sounds amazing.” “He was. He just wanted me to be happy. Me and Jase. He’d give anything to see us happy.” Pulling Noah into a hug, Zack holds him tightly. “He must’ve been so proud of you.” The boys lay back on the bed, Noah wrapped up in Zack’s arms – he feels content, safe, like he is protected and could do anything. Noah gazes up into Zack’s eyes and smiles. “What?” Zack asks. Noah shrugs. “Just… I like this.” A smile on his face, Zack links his hands with Noah. “I do too.” Leaning in close to Noah, Zack hesitates, feeling Noah’s laboured breathing on his face. He presses his lips against Noah’s, kissing him softly. Noah shuffles up the bed as he and Zack kiss more deeply. Pulling away, Zack smiles. “I’ve missed you” he whispers. “Me too” Noah agrees. The boys lay back, wrapped up in each other’s arms, a smile splashed across Noah’s face.
Arriving back at his apartment, Ethan is riled up after the day’s events. He sighs as he lets himself into the apartment, taking off his jacket and hanging it up. Moving towards the sink, Ethan fills a glass with water before knocking it back, and then pulling out his phone. He goes onto FaceTime and clicks on Kyle’s contact, listening in to the ringtone as the call connects. Quickly, Kyle answers, and Ethan smiles at the face of his boyfriend Kyle Rhodes. “Hey handsome” says Ethan, but he is taken aback by Kyle’s appearance – unshaven, his hair messy, his eyes red and blotchy. Kyle shakes his head. “Is everything okay?” a panicked Ethan asks. Kyle gulps, a lump in his throat.
“It’s my dad…” he whispers, tears streaming down his face, “He… he passed away this morning.” Ethan feels his stomach clench as he takes in Kyle’s news, raising his hand to his mouth. He nods. “I’m so sorry, babe” he manages. Kyle just shrugs. “It was expected, but… but it still hurts, y’know? I just wanted you to know… I won’t be home for a little while. I’m going to help mum and Isla sort things out, then I’ll probably stay for the funeral. Is that okay?” “That’s fine. Look, I’ll speak to work – tell them there’s an emergency and I need time off. I’ll get the train up to Manchester tomorrow.” “Don’t worry about it” Kyle insists, “I don’t want to cause you issues at work.” “No, it’s fine” Ethan assures him, “I want to be there. For you, for the girls… I’m coming up.” Thanking Ethan, Kyle says that he loves him – and Ethan nods, feeling a lump in his own throat. “I love you too. And I’m sorry. I’m really, really sorry.”
Regular Cast: Amber Morgan: Millie Gibson Caleb Brennan: Ned Porteous Chloe Hall: Charlotte Jordan Curtis Gordon: Jaden Ladega Dylan Morgan: Bleu Landau Emma Kinsella: Sammy Winward Ethan Bowers: Callum Kerr Kaiyen Chadha: Adam Hussain Kyle Rhodes: Max Parker Leona Anderson: Diane Parish Lily Preston: Ellie Dadd Louie Renshaw: Noah Valentine Nathan Finch: Sam Retford Noah Harding: Charlie Behan Paul Gordon: Robert Beck Ronan Kinsella: Ayden Callaghan Stephanie “Steph” Sykes: Lucy Dixon
Recurring Cast: Alfred “Alf” Preston: Larry Lamb Finlay “Finn” Kinsella: Max Fletcher Fiona “Fi” Kinsella: Deena Payne Leah Hayton: Amelia Flanagan Poppy Preston: Erin Palmer Sakina Gulati: Tanisha Gorey Zachary “Zack” Richards: Sam Hall Zian Mistry: Juhaim Rasul Choudhury
Guest Cast: Erica Bailey: Lisa Maxwell
• ORIGINAL PUBLICATION: 2023.09.25
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Dec 31, 2023 14:48:52 GMT
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Dec 31, 2023 14:49:32 GMT
Saturday 16th September 2023
On a busy Friday night, The Rose and Crown is packed, ahead of the Speed Dating event hosted by landlady Leona Anderson, who is standing behind the bar proudly looking around. She excitedly turns to barmaid Sophia Morgan with a grin on her face. “I knew it’d be a good turn-out” Leona proudly declares as Sophia smiles. “I’m happy for you, Leona. I know Paul was sceptical.” “You can’t beat love!” Leona teases, “No matter how much of a Grinch you are. Now come on – time to play Cupid!” Heading for the stage that has been set-up, Leona moves towards the microphone. “Good evening, ladies and gentlemen” she declares, “I would like to welcome you all to tonight’s speed dating night! Now, the rules are simple…” As Leona explains the event, her unimpressed daughter Elyse Anderson sits at a table with a sticker on her chest, brandishing her name. Her friend for the night, Chloe Hall, excitedly takes a sip of her drink. “There’s some hotties in here tonight, to be fair” Chloe excitedly says. Elyse looks around. “None that are tickling my fancy” she sighs. “Don’t you worry, Elyse, we’ll find you someone. Here, what about him!”
Chloe points towards a tall man in his mid-20s – Elyse looks at him and smirks. “He’s alright, I guess. Tall – I’d be able to wear my heels.” Smiling, Chloe tells Elyse that that is the spirit! Entering the pub, university student Louie Renshaw has a big smile on his face. His reluctant friend Kaiyen Chadha follows behind him. “I’m not sure about this, Lou” Kaiyen admits, “Why don’t we just go home?” “Come on, Kai, it’ll be a laugh” Louie insists, “Besides, you’ve dragged me out here, and I’m not even technically single!” Raising an eyebrow, Kaiyen smirks. “You and Jake official then?” he asks. Louie titters. “Not quite – but I’m hardly going to a speed dating night when the man of my dreams is in my DMs! I’m only here to support you. Although…” Louie spots hunky gym owner Conor Kinsella sitting at a table, “There is definitely some eye candy to be had here.” Sighing, Kaiyen rubs his hands together nervously – and soon spots their friend Sakina Gulati across the pub, eagerly chatting to somebody.
“Where are you taking me?” Lily Preston asks as she and boyfriend Curtis Gordon trudge down a country path, out towards Meriden. She sighs heavily, rubbing her burning calves. “Just a little further” Curtis insists, carrying a backpack. He smiles as he looks down the hill at a beautiful open grass area, overlooking a lake. Lily gasps. “Wow” she whispers, “It’s beautiful.” “Me and dad found it when we were out for a walk with Oggie… it’s a bit out the way, but I thought it’d be a nice place to come.” “I didn’t even realise we had places like this near us” Lily says as she and Curtis make their way down the hill. Reaching a spot by the lake, Curtis takes a blanket out of his backpack and lays it down. He takes a seat, and pats the blanket for Lily to join him. Lily drops onto her knees. “I know it’s not exactly a Michelin star restaurant, but…” – “It’s perfect” Lily assures him, looking into her boyfriend’s eyes, “You’re perfect.”
Meanwhile, at the Preston family’s home, matriarch Imogen Preston is setting the dining table, ready to have some friends round for dinner. Her husband Matthew ‘Matt’ Preston is in the kitchen, cooking. “Ronan and Emma’ll be here soon” Matt calls out to Imogen. Imogen joins him in the kitchen and wraps her arms around his waist. “Poppy’s fed, Mollie’s out with Charlie, and Lily’s out with Curtis, so we don’t need to worry about the kids… just try not to get too drunk, hey?” Matt laughs, turning to face Imogen. “When do I ever get too drunk?” he teases. The pair share a kiss. The doorbell then rings, and Imogen goes to answer it. She finds her friend Emma Kinsella standing on the doorstep, alongside her husband Ronan Kinsella. Ronan is carrying a crate of beers, while Emma holds a bottle of wine. “Evening!” greets Emma as Imogen pulls her into a hug. “You look gorgeous” compliments Imogen, gasping at Emma’s dress. Emma does a twirl. “Just a little something I picked up from town… Ronan’s not a fan.” “I didn’t say that” Ronan insists, “I just think it’s a little… revealing?” “Oh give over, Ronan!” Imogen scoffs, “It’s barely revealing! I think you look luscious, Emma. Ignore the men – they don’t have a clue.”
Leading Emma and Ronan through to the kitchen, Imogen tells Matt that their guests are here. Matt turns around and raises an eyebrow. “Blimey, Emma, you look nice.” “Yeah cheers, Matthew(!)” quips Ronan, unbuttoning the top button of his shirt, “There was me thinking you’d be ripping this shirt off me soon as we got through the door.” “Not in front of the women, Ronan – later” winks Matt. Emma then hands Imogen the bottle of wine. “I brought this… seeing as you’re refusing to let us pay for half the food.” “Oh don’t be silly!” Imogen says, “We invited you!” “Well, we’ll have to use it as an excuse to do it again another time” Ronan says, “This time at our gaff.” “Yeah, if we can get Brady, Chloe and Fi out the house at the same time!” Emma rolls her eyes. “Enjoying the full house?” Matt asks. “Loving it(!)” Ronan grins sarcastically.
Emma titters. “It’s nice that Fi’s got her family round her, but… we’re struggling for space, ain’t we?” “Yeah. Hey, Matt, I know you’re outside of work hours, but… don’t s’pose you fancy taking a look at your attic and giving us a quote for turning it into a bedroom, do ya? Brady can’t keep kipping on the sofa his whole life!” laughs Ronan. “Yeah, sure. How does Monday sound?” “Brilliant. I’ll let mum know – one of us’ll be in.” “Right, no more talk about work or overflowing families!” Imogen exclaims, “Come on, let’s get this wine open. Ooh, Emma, I’ve got something to show you!” Leading Emma out of the kitchen, Imogen disappears – as Ronan looks at Matt and laughs, holding the crate of beers up.
Back at the pub, Elyse is bored out of her mind as a guy chats her ear off about The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Hiding her yawn, Elyse looks over at a table, where Chloe is engaged in a deep chat with a man. “So, have you got your own place?” Chloe asks. The guy titters. “Not exactly! I live with my mum, but…” “Planning to move out soon?” a hopeful Chloe asks. The guy scoffs. “Absolutely not! What other 27 year old can say they’ve got their mum to do their laundry for them!? No, I’ve got it easy – I know what side my bread is buttered.” Chloe’s face drops. At a different table, 19-year-old Kaiyen is nervously talking to a woman in her late 20s. “You’re a bit younger than my normal type, but…” The woman runs her foot up Kaiyen’s leg. Kaiyen’s eyes bulge as he nearly chokes on his beer. “Y… yeah?” “You seem quite mature for your age.” Kaiyen laughs nervously. He helplessly looks over at Louie, who is lost in conversation with an attractive man.
Realising he is on his own, Kaiyen turns his attention back to the woman. “They seem to be getting on well” Leona points out to Sophia, nodding towards Conor, who is sitting at a table with solicitor Nathan Finch. Sophia giggles. “I forget he’s bisexual” Sophia admits, “He’s such a gorgeous man.” “I can see why he’d want to maximise who he can get with” notes Leona. “So, tell me about your job” Conor says to Nathan, who laughs. “It’s pretty boring, really! I’m a defence lawyer, so… defending all the bad guys. Or the wrongly-accused bad guys.” “Oh yeah? You’re one of those who isn’t too bothered by whether your client is innocent or not then?” Conor asks with a raised eyebrow. Nathan shrugs. “I present the facts, I make a case, the jury decides what to do. A job’s a job. It just so happens I’m damn good at it – guess you could say I’m good at getting people off.” “I bet you are” Conor growls. Leona then rings a bell, and everybody gets ready to switch seats.
Conor and Louie pass each other, sharing a knowing smirk. “Fancy seeing you here” grins Aaron Gordon as he sits opposite Chloe. Chloe smirks, glancing at the man she slept with a few weeks earlier. “You stalking me?” she teases. Aaron nods. “Yeah, I only came tonight cos I found out you’d be here… can you blame me?” “Was our one night together that good?” flirts Chloe. “I’d be up for doing it again if you were” Aaron muses. Chloe stares at him blankly before shaking her head. “Nah” she says, “Sorry, but… you’re a bit young.” “I’m 22” laughs a bemused Aaron, “I’m hardly a kid!” “I’m 26, Aaron” Chloe shrugs, “And I don’t fancy myself as a cougar.” “Give over!” Aaron rolls his eyes, “Are you seriously blowing me off cos of a 4-year age-gap?” With a shrug, Chloe tells Aaron that she’s afraid she is. “What’s your name?” Elyse asks as she looks at the handsome stranger in front of her, completely ignoring the sticker with his name on. Caleb Brennan’s eyes glance over her. “Caleb” he says, making eye contact with Elyse, “And you?” “Elyse.” As Elyse and Caleb look at each other, a smirk spreads across Elyse’s face.
On the grass verge, Curtis and Lily are laid back, looking up at the sky. Lily sighs, content. “This is lovely” she says, music playing gently in the background through Curtis’ Bluetooth speaker. He smiles, looking at her. “I’m glad you like it” he admits. He intertwines his fingers with Lily and squeezes her hand supportively. “Me and you forever, yeah?” smiles Curtis. Lily nods. “Of course.” The pair share a kiss.
Meanwhile, back at the Prestons’, Matt is serving dinner. Ronan and Emma are seated at the table, and Imogen soon joins them. “This looks delicious, Matt” compliments Emma as Matt takes a seat. Imogen squeezes his leg and smiles. “Matt’s quite a good cook” she says. Laughing, Matt says that he is alright. “If I weren’t a builder, maybe I’d be a chef.” “Well if your sausage casserole is anywhere near as good as that conservatory I saw on your company Facebook page, I’m sure it’ll be a belter” laughs Ronan. “Dig in” Matt says. The two couples begin to eat, Emma nodding as she takes her first mouthful. “It’s lush.” “So, Ronan…” Imogen takes a sip of wine, “How’s Fi feeling recently?” “She’s getting there” Ronan admits, “She’s got her last round of chemo tomorrow, so hopefully things’ll be on the up. It really knocks it out of her, though.” “Bless her” Matt sighs. “She’s been so strong” says Emma, “A proper fighter.” “That’s my mother” laughs Ronan. “Here, how’s Poppy doing now?” asks Emma, “Last you said, CAMHS were talking to you about a possible ADHD assessment?” “Yeah, still on a waiting list – feels like we will be forever” reveals Imogen. Matt nods in agreement. “We’ll get there, though. Even if it takes a while.” “Hopefully before her GCSEs” Emma opines. “Yeah, hopefully” muses Imogen.
“Things seem to be going well down there” comments publican Paul Gordon as his wife Leona joins him in the flat above the pub. Leona moves towards him. “It’s packed. I would ask you to come and help, but I know you’re feeling under the weather.” “It’s just a bit of a cold… I don’t want to ruin your big night, and Kelsey’s homecoming, though.” “Speaking of… have you heard from her?” Leona asks. Paul confirms that he hasn’t. “Shall I give her a ring?” “I’m sure she’s on her way… hey, if you feel up for it, pop down and have a look. It’s great down there. Love is in the air!” As Leona leaves the room, Paul laughs to himself. Downstairs, Elyse and Caleb are still chatting. “So what do you do?” Caleb asks. “I’m a nurse” sighs Elyse, “It’s hard work, but it’s rewarding.” “I know the feeling. I’m not a medical professional, but I’m a teacher. Only PE, but still.” “Oh yeah? You could put me through my paces then?” Elyse flirts. “I’m a teacher, not a PT” laughs Caleb, “But I know a few exercises, yeah.” A smirk on his face and a glint in his eye, Caleb’s words clearly have a double meaning – to which Elyse finds herself grinning. “Maybe I can take your number?” Elyse asks. Caleb nods. “I’d like that.”
Handing Elyse his phone, Elyse types her number in, before handing it back to Caleb, just as the bell rings. “See you around, Elyse” winks Caleb. “How’s it going?” Kaiyen asks as he sits opposite Sakina. Sakina frowns as she looks at him. “You’re wasting a round” she pouts. With a shrug, Kaiyen tells Sakina that it doesn’t matter. “Maybe me and you are secretly made for each other… who knows?” teases Kaiyen. With a laugh, Sakina says that Kaiyen isn’t her type – before nodding. “But it’s going well. I was chatting to this girl, Lindsay. She’s gorgeous, Kai.” “Oh yeah, you’re… pan?” “Bi” Sakina corrects him, pointing to the badge she is wearing that states her interests as both males and females. “Well, sorry for wasting a turn!” Kaiyen goes to stand up, but Sakina grabs his hand. “No point in rushing off” she says, smiling, “May as well sit down and finish the turn.” A smile on his face, Kaiyen takes a seat.
At another table, Nathan is sat chatting to Louie. “You into older guys?” Nathan asks. Louie shrugs. “Most of my previous dalliances have been with older guys, yeah. Didn’t have you down as someone who’s into younger, though.” “I’m not, usually” Nathan admits, “But I dunno… you have an alluring face.” Smirking, Louie nods. “Right.” “Sadly, I’m not sure we’d mesh… I seem to think we’d clash in the bedroom.” Nathan raises an eyebrow knowingly, and Louie smirks. “I can see why you’d think that, but actually… I’m quite flexible.” A grin spreading across his face, Nathan nods. “Maybe we’re more compatible than I thought, then” he teases. “Sorry, I’m back” Leona apologises as she rejoins Sophia in the bar. Sophia turns to face her. “Elyse seems to be having fun” she says, nodding towards Elyse, who is laughing at a guy’s jokes. Leona’s eyes light up, relieved to see her daughter letting her hair down. Before she can respond, the door opens, and a girl walks in, pulling some suitcases behind her. She parks them in front of the bar and grins as she looks at Leona. “Hey mum” greets Leona’s 19-year-old daughter Kelsey Gordon, a huge smile on her face, as Leona lets out a loud squeal, and rushes to greet her youngest daughter. Aaron and Elyse both look up to see their sister, watching as Kelsey and Leona embrace. “How was your train?” asks Leona as she and her daughter Kelsey catch up in the flat above the pub. Kelsey picks up her cup of coffee and takes a sip. “Never-ending… felt like it took an age just to get here!” “At least you’re here now” Leona says. Her fiancé Paul, Kelsey’s father, then joins them in the kitchen. “Good to see you, Kels” Paul smiles, pulling his only daughter into a hug. “Thanks, dad. You look well.” “I don’t bloody feel it – come down with a cold all of a sudden!” Groaning, Kelsey pushes Paul away. “You better not make me ill!” The three laugh. “Looks busy down there, mum” Kelsey admits, “Another successful night, it seems.” “You know your mother… always did have an eye for a cracking night out” Paul compliments. Leona tells Paul to stop it, “You’ll inflate my ego!” She then moves towards Kelsey. “I’m just so glad to have you home” whispers Leona. Downstairs, Aaron is distracted by the return of his half-sister, and soon makes his excuses to leave. He passes Sophia on his way out to the back hallway of the pub. “Leaving already?” Sophia asks. Aaron shrugs. “I’ve already been turned down by the girl I was hoping to cop off with” Aaron sighs, “Besides, my little sister’s just got home… I reckon that’s as good an excuse as any to call it a night.” With that, Aaron rushes upstairs, leaving Sophia to head back out onto the bar, where she rings the bell for the speed dating event. Elyse sighs as a man sits down in front of her: nurse Ewan Price.
“Fancy seeing you here” teases Ewan with a cheeky grin on his face. “It’s my mum’s pub” Elyse says matter-of-factly, “And I’m only here to make her happy.” “There was me thinking you’d come so you could match with me” winks Ewan. “And how would I know you’d be here?” “I did share the event on my socials…” “I don’t follow you” Elyse reminds him. Ewan shrugs. “Don’t act like you’ve not stalked me. If you’re lucky, you might find the shirtless picture I posted from Malaga. Not that you haven’t already seen it… first time we met, I had the pecs out.” “I’ve tried to forget” Elyse tells him. She then stands up. “This is unprofessional. I’m going to the bathroom.” As Elyse walks off, Ewan watches her.
Back at the Prestons’, the group have moved outside, and are making use of Matt and Imogen’s gazebo in the back garden. As Matt and Ronan sink beers, Imogen is giving Emma a pedicure. “It’s handy, having a bestie who’s also a beautician” laughs Emma. Imogen tilts her head. “I’m expecting a free blueberry muffin and soya latte when I next pop into the coffee shop” she muses. Emma crosses her heart. She then looks over at Ronan and Matt. “I’ve missed this” Emma admits, “Feels like forever since I did something without the kids, or without a member of Ronan’s family hanging around…” “Sounds like you’re getting a bit fed up of the in-laws” Imogen notes. Emma shakes her head. “I’m not saying that, I just… I remember the days when our house was quiet. Me, Ro and the kids. Now we’ve got Ronan’s mum, brother and cousin all under the same roof. It’s a lot some days. Plus, Finn’s older now – he’s at that stage where he’s starting to get cocky – really cocky. I’m sure your Poppy’s the same.”
“Oh, the back-chat is unreal!” laughs Imogen, “But I’m used to it. It’s not my first rodeo. More wine?” Emma holds her cup up, and Imogen tops her up. Bringing the red wine to her lips, Emma takes a sip. “Does it get easier? Parenting a teenager, I mean…” “Mollie’s at the stage where she’s easier now. Lily… she’s a good kid, but she still has her moments. I don’t think she’d ever do anything major to cause me worry, though. Not after that alcohol scare a few months back! So… yeah, it does. Once Finn reaches Mollie’s age, he’ll be sound. He’s a good lad anyway… a little bit of backchat is nothing, not when he could be out getting into scraps, doing drugs, attacking little old ladies…!” Laughing, Emma nods. “Yeah, that’s true” she says.
Meanwhile, Curtis and Lily are now preparing to eat the food Curtis has brought. Lily smiles as Curtis lays out all of her favourite foods. “Is that parma ham?” Lily gasps as Curtis nods. “Yep! I’ve made like a little picnic of all your favourite foods. And look…” Curtis reaches into his bag and pulls out a can of Lily’s favourite fizzy drink, “I’ve even got refreshments.” Lily excitedly picks up a cherry tomato and places it into her mouth. “You know me so well” she sighs dreamily. “Course I do. You’re the love of my life.” Curtis also picks up a cherry tomato and takes a bite. As the juice spurts over him, Lily bursts out laughing, but her laughs are cut short when she feels a tense pain in her abdomen. Ignoring it, Lily focuses on Curtis, and laughs again.
“Good to see you, sis” Aaron says as he joins Kelsey in the living room of The Rose and Crown. Kelsey thanks him, pulling Aaron into a hug. “How was London?” “Busy! I’m kinda sad to have left, but… well I hated the uni. And the accommodation cost a bomb. At least here, I can stay at home while I study.” “So you’re transferring to St. Stephen’s?” asks Aaron. Kelsey nods. “I am. And I’ve got a placement at the hospital, too, so I start there middle of October. I’m excited.” “I can’t believe, in a few years, we’ll have our second nurse in the family” gushes Leona. Kelsey laughs. “Shouldn’t you be heading downstairs?” Kelsey asks, “You’re missing the night you organised!” “I’d rather spend it with my babies” Leona insists. Kelsey looks around. “Speaking of, where’s Curtis? He in his room?” “He’s out with his girlfriend” Aaron says with a wiggle of his eyebrows. Kelsey makes an ‘ooh’ sound. “Bagged himself a lady, has he?” “None other than Lily Preston” Leona informs Kelsey, who scoffs. “That’s icky!” laughs Kelsey, “My brother dating my best friend’s little sister!” “Does Mollie know you’ve come home?” Leona asks. Kelsey informs her that she doesn’t, “I was thinking of going and seeing her, telling her in person. But that can wait til tomorrow. I’m knackered – and starving! Have we got anything in?”
The speed dating event has come to an end. Elyse joins Chloe by the bar and grins. “So, any luck?” Elyse asks. Chloe holds up three pieces of paper. “Three numbers to add to the collection” she winks, “Your girl’s still got it. You?” “I met a guy… Caleb. We exchanged numbers. The rest of them… total waste of time!” Elyse sighs. Sophia adds her two pennies, “A number’s still a number, El. Give him a call tomorrow, arrange a date.” “Is it that one over there, cos he is checking you out like there’s no tomorrow!” giggles Chloe, pointing across the pub discretely. Elyse turns to see Ewan watching her, and sighs. “No. No, I work with him” she reveals. “He’s cute” Chloe says. Sophia nods in agreement. “He is. You should get his number.” “I don’t want it” insists Elyse, “I’m happy to keep things as distant as possible. I would never get involved with anyone from work!” “So if a hot, dishy doctor come walking in right now, you’re saying you wouldn’t jump at the chance?” Chloe asks knowingly. Elyse shakes her head. “Not in his wildest dreams” she claims. Chloe then looks around. “Where did your brother get to? Aaron?” she asks. Elyse scoffs. “Probably copped off with some girl. He’s a chancer.” “No, he went upstairs” Sophia reveals, “To see Kelsey or something.”
“Ah. Speaking of, I should probably go and greet my little sister. It’s been fun, Chloe.” “We’ll have to do something when you’re both free” Chloe tells the girls, with both agreeing, before Elyse disappears. On her way out the pub, Chloe spots Ewan looking at her, and approaches him. “I hear you know my friend” she says. Ewan shrugs. “Elyse? We’re just colleagues.” “Well you seemed to be checking her out…” “Who said it was her I was looking at?” flirts Ewan. Chloe arches an eyebrow. “You know, it’s a shame we never got to have a conversation” continues Ewan, “I reckon we’d have got on.” “Yeah?” “Yeah. Could always have a night cap back at mine. I live near-by… nice bottle of Pinot in the fridge. You look like a white wine girl.” “I’m more of a lager drinker” says Chloe. Ewan shrugs. “Just so happens there’s a crate of Moretti in my fridge too. So… night-cap?” Looking Ewan up and down, Chloe looks unsure: but her uncertainty turns to a smirk and she leaves the pub, taking Ewan’s hand. At Matt and Imogen’s, Ronan and Emma are getting ready to leave after a nice night. Emma sighs as she helps a tipsy Ronan keep himself upright. “I’m fine” Ronan insists, shaking Emma off. An equally tipsy Matt giggles. “You’re in the dog house, mate” Matt slurs. Imogen shoots him a glare. “You’re not far off either, Matthew. Come on, it’s bed time.” “Sorry about this” Emma says, but Imogen assures her it’s fine. “It’s not your fault neither of our fellas can handle a few cans. It’s been lovely having you.” “Thank you so much.” Emma and Imogen share a hug. “Come on you – let’s get home, before Fi has a fit.” “I’m a grown man, I can roll home when I like! Hey, Matt, club?” “Yes mate!” Matt cheers, throwing his arms in the air and catching the light fitting. Imogen rolls her eyes. “The only club you two will be gaining entry to is the land of nod. Now go upstairs, Matt.” As Matt slinks off, Emma laughs, guiding Ronan out of the house. She says goodbye to Imogen, before helping her husband across the road, and laughing at his state. Looking down the street, she sees Chloe outside of The Rose and Crown, passionately kissing a guy (Ewan) against the wall of the pub. A smirk on her face, Emma carries on towards her house, and helps Ronan towards the front door. Above the pub, Kelsey is settled on her bed in her childhood bedroom. As she flicks through social media, she stops on the face of a boy. Staring at it sadly, Kelsey sighs, putting her phone down. She lays back in the bed, places her phone down on the bedside cabinet and rolls over, burying herself under her duvet. Walking hand-in-hand down a country lane, Lily and Curtis are heading home. “It’s way past my curfew” giggles Lily as she and her boyfriend wander. Curtis shrugs his shoulders. “What are they going to do? Even if they ground us, it can’t ruin our perfect evening. You did enjoy it, didn’t you?” “It was the best date I’ve ever had” Lily tells him, “You really are the sweetest boyfriend.” “And the best looking” Curtis teases. The pair share a tender kiss. Suddenly, Lily is crippled with pain, bending over and clutching her stomach. “Lil? What’s wrong?” a panicked Curtis asks, trying to hold Lily, but she brushes him off. “I can’t… it hurts” Lily tells him, close to tears. Suddenly, she freezes, looking down at her feet. Curtis follows her eye line and sees a small trickle of blood running down her leg. “What’s that?” Curtis gasps. Lily looks him dead in the eye. “I need to go to a hospital” Lily whispers. Curtis shakes his head. “What’s wrong, Lily?” “I lied, Curtis” Lily admits, a tear escaping from her eye, “I’ve been lying to you for weeks…” “What? I don’t understand…” “I didn’t have the abortion” Lily finally reveals, “I lied about it cos I couldn’t bring myself to do it… I’m still pregnant.” Overcome with shock, Curtis backs away from his girlfriend – unsure what to say or do, as Lily begs him for help. Regular Cast: Aaron Gordon: Jack James Ryan Caleb Brennan: Ned Porteous Chloe Hall: Charlotte Jordan Conor Kinsella: Danny Hatchard Curtis Gordon: Jaden Ladega Elyse Anderson: Andrea Ali Emma Kinsella: Sammy Winward Ewan Price: Richard Wisker Imogen Preston: Catherine Tyldesley Kaiyen Chadha: Adam Hussain Kelsey Gordon: Yasmin Finney Leona Anderson: Diane Parish Lily Preston: Ellie Dadd Louie Renshaw: Noah Valentine Matthew “Matt” Preston: David Tag Nathan Finch: Sam Retford Paul Gordon: Robert Beck Ronan Kinsella: Ayden Callaghan Sophia Morgan: Tilly Keeper
Recurring Cast: Sakina Gulati: Tanisha Gorey
• ORIGINAL PUBLICATION: 2023.09.25
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Dec 31, 2023 14:58:50 GMT
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Dec 31, 2023 14:59:52 GMT
Wednesday 20th September 2023
It is early hours Saturday morning, around 2am, as Imogen Preston bursts into the A&E department of St. Stephen’s Memorial Hospital, a look of terror on her face. She rushes to the front desk and a concerned Martha Dobbs greets her. “Imogen” Martha says softly as she sees her neighbour. Imogen fights back tears. “Is she here? Is my little girl here… is she okay?” a panicked Imogen asks. Martha stands up and moves towards Imogen. “Come on, let’s calm you down. Lily’s fine, she’s with the doctor now. She’ll be okay” Martha assures the mother. Imogen shakes her head. “I need to see her” Imogen frets, “I don’t want her being alone.” “She’s not alone… she’s with the doctor, and Curtis. Curtis is with her.” She leads Imogen towards a seat and guides her down into it. Imogen rests her head in her hands. “This is the second time in months she’s been rushed to hospital” sighs Imogen, “And I was in bed, I didn’t hear my phone…” “Imogen, please… Lily is okay. She’s not in any life-threatening danger. They are going to need to talk to you, however.” Imogen looks her in the eyes. “Why, what’s wrong?”
Suddenly, Dr Zarah Mistry joins the women in A&E. “Mrs Preston?” Zarah asks. Imogen nods. “Yeah… is she okay? Is Lily okay?” “Lily’s fine. I’ve had a chat with her, and she’s consented for me to talk to you about what’s happened. If you’d like to follow me.” Zarah leads Imogen into a side room and closes the door. “What is it?” Imogen asks, a look of terror on her face, “What’s happened?” “There’s nothing to worry about. Lily was brought in with some bleeding, but it’s normal for women in her condition.” “Her condition?” asks a bemused Imogen. Zarah looks her in the eye. “When your daughter came to us a few months ago, we found something. At the time, we didn’t share it with you due to her age. She’s 17 now, so she can consent whether we share information with you, but she’s told me it’s okay to tell you… Lily is pregnant, Mrs Preston.”
Imogen’s jaw drops as she feels her world crumble around her. Shaking her head, Imogen raises her hand to her mouth – unsure what to say. Some time later, Lily Preston is sitting in a cubicle, tearful, as she lays there staring up at the ceiling. Her grumpy boyfriend Curtis Gordon sits beside her, not saying a word. “Say something” Lily begs, turning to face Curtis. She reaches out for his hand, but Curtis snatches it away. “I’ve got nothing to say” Curtis tells her, “I’ve got… I’ve got nothing.” Getting up, Curtis is about to leave, when the curtain opens, and Imogen enters. She looks at her little girl and feels her eyes well up once more. “Lily” Imogen whispers, rushing to her daughter’s side. As Imogen holds her daughter, Curtis slides out of the cubicle, unable to take anymore.
The next morning, Matthew ‘Matt’ Preston awakens with a throbbing headache and a knot in his stomach. He groans, rolling over and reaching out for his wife, but she isn’t there. Shaking his head, Matt sits up, rubbing his eyes and groaning. He grabs his dressing gown and wraps it around him before making his way out onto the landing. Noticing that Lily’s bedroom door is ajar, Matt pops his head in – and is confused to see his daughter missing. He carries on down the stairs, but the only sign of life is his daughter, Mollie Preston, who smiles at him sadly. “Where’s your mother?” Matt asks as Mollie moves towards him and hands him a piece of paper. “She’s not answering my texts” Mollie reveals as Matt unfolds the piece of paper, informing him that she has had to rush to the hospital. Concerned, Matt pulls his phone out and dials Imogen’s number – but it goes straight to voicemail. “Shit!”
Doing the walk of shame down Oakford Avenue, a sheepish Louie Renshaw is heading for the house where he is currently staying with his best mate Kaiyen and Kaiyen’s aunt Zarah. As he reaches the front door, Zarah herself pulls up in her car and climbs out, smirking at Louie. “I know what this means” she teases, shaking her head with a tut. Louie raises a finger. “Don’t” he begs. “This that lad from the other week?” Zarah asks. Louie shrugs. “Yeah. I like him, Zarah.” Louie opens the door, to find his friend Kaiyen Chadha sat on the sofa. Kaiyen laughs as he looks at Louie. “Dirty stop-out?” Kaiyen grins. Louie sighs. “I’m going back to bed” he mutters. As Louie slumps up the stairs, Zarah looks at Kaiyen and the pair laugh.
“Go easy on him… Martha messaged, he was at the hospital – that’s why he was so late home” says Paul Gordon as he and his fiancé Leona Anderson stand outside of their teenage son Curtis’ bedroom. Leona sighs. “Lily again?” she asks. Paul nods. “Martha wouldn’t say what happened – I don’t think she knows – but she was taken into A&E last night. Apparently he Ubered home early hours this morning.” Leona moves into the kitchen. “I’m starting to think that girl’s more trouble than she’s worth” she says. Paul presses his lips. “She’s clearly got an illness or something, L.” “She ended up in hospital the first time cos she drank too much, Paul” Leona reminds him, “Not cos of some medical condition!” “Curtis was drinking too, don’t forget. He’s not innocent. Just… wait until he wakes up, and we’ll find out what happened last night.”
The pair are then joined in the kitchen by their daughter Kelsey Gordon, who returned last night. “Sleep well?” Paul asks. Kelsey smiles. “Yeah, was good. I was knackered, sorry for going to bed so early.” “Not to worry. Hey, I’ve invited Elyse round for a family meal tonight. That alright with you?” Leona asks. Kelsey nods. “Course it is. I’m going to go and see Mollie today, though… let her know I’m back.” Paul pulls a face. “I, er… I’d give Mollie space. Her sister ended up in hospital last night.” “Lily? Oh, God, is she okay?” a panicked Kelsey asks. Leona shrugs her shoulders. “We don’t know any more, just that Curtis come in at God knows what time this morning, having spent most the night with her in A&E.” Grabbing her jacket, Kelsey nods. “I’m going to go and check on Mollie… she’ll appreciate it.” As Kelsey rushes off, Paul smiles. “Our girl, always wanting to help others” he says proudly.
Meanwhile, at the Kinsella home, Emma Kinsella is laughing as her husband Ronan Kinsella sits at the kitchen table, nursing a hangover. Emma places a strong cup of coffee down in front of him and knowingly smirks. “I warned you not to drink too much” teases Emma, earning herself a glare from Ronan. “Please, Em, a bit of sympathy wouldn’t go amiss.” “I have no sympathy!” loudly declares Ronan’s mother Fiona ‘Fi’ Kinsella as she enters the room. Ronan cringes at his mother’s booming voice. “Bit sore, Rone?” teases Fi. Grabbing his coffee, Ronan stands up. “I’m going for a shower.” He disappears, as Fi turns to Emma. “Chloe was out early this morning, eh?” “She didn’t come home” laughs Emma, “I think someone got lucky at the pub’s dating night.” “That’s my girl!” grins Fi, “About time she had a bit of romance in her life.” “I’m not sure there’d have been much romance” giggles Emma.
Waking up, Chloe Hall opens her eyes and blinks in the sunlight. She sighs as she feels someone massage her arm. “Morning beautiful” grins nurse Ewan Price, whose apartment Chloe stayed in last night. Chloe groans, rubbing her head. “I seriously need to stop this hangover nonsense” Chloe complains, earning herself a laugh from Ewan. “Last night was fun” Ewan says, and Chloe nods. “Yeah…” Sighing as Ewan kisses her neck, Chloe rolls her eyes.
In the hospital, Imogen watches as Lily dozes, having stayed overnight to be monitored. She gets up and checks her phone, but there is no signal. Sighing, Imogen goes to leave the cubicle, but Lily’s eyes open. “Mum?” Lily’s voice breaks. Imogen turns to face her. “I’m just going to call your father, let him know you’re okay” Imogen assures her. Lily reaches out her hand. “Please don’t tell him” she begs, “He’ll kill me.” Imogen gulps, a lump in her throat. “I need to, Lil” Imogen says sternly, “He’s going to find out…” “Please, mum…” Lily begs, “Please don’t tell him.” Unsure what to do, Imogen takes a seat. “What am I going to tell him landed you in here?” “A dodgy prawn or… or something!” “And when you’re showing? When you give birth? When there’s a baby in the house?!” “I don’t know” Lily sobs, “I haven’t thought this through. I haven’t thought any of it through!”
Imogen quickly softens. “I know. I know, darling, I’m sorry. I just… you need support. Support from me, and support fromyour dad. This isn’t going away, Lils.” “I didn’t want an abortion” Lily admits, “And now I’ve made peace with what’s happening… it’s too late. I’m too far gone to have one.” “You made the choice based on what you felt was right” Imogen reasons, “And that’s okay, but we need to deal with the consequences now. You’re going to have a baby, but you’re 17. It’s going to be hard work.” “You’re not angry?” Lily asks. Imogen looks her in the eye. “No” she manages eventually, though even she is unsure if she believes herself: she then picks up her phone, tells Lily she will be back, and leaves.
Back at the Preston family home, Mollie’s boyfriend Charlie Cullen has joined her after finding out about Lily’s hospitalisation. Matt is still pacing back and forth, going out of his mind with worry. Charlie sighs as he watches him. “We need to calm your dad down” Charlie suggests, “He’s going to make himself sick with worry.” “You sound like my nan” giggles Mollie, before she sobers, “I shouldn’t laugh. My little sister’s in hospital and I don’t even know why. Dad’s on about going up there, but I’ve convinced him not to. For now.” Matt’s phone then begins to ring, and he rapidly answers it. “Imogen? What the hell has happened?!” Matt desperately asks. His face pales. “Well is she okay? Why can’t you just tell me over the phone? Okay, okay, give me 20 minutes and I’ll be there.” Hanging up, Matt turns to Mollie. “Your mum needs me at the hospital. Can you keep an eye on Poppy?” “Yeah, go. Go” Mollie ushers Matt out of the house. She sighs as he leaves, falling into Charlie’s arms. “Why does this keep happening?” Mollie asks. Charlie holds his girlfriend tight and shakes his head. “I don’t know” he admits honestly. The doorbell then rings, and Mollie goes to answer it. She opens the door to find her best friend Kelsey on her doorstep. “Kelsey?” Mollie whispers in shock. An uneasy Kelsey smiles. “Surprise(!)” she says.
“Your mate’s a proper little Casanova, isn’t he?” teases Zarah as Kaiyen joins her in the kitchen. He nods his head. “Yeah… doesn’t take things slow, does our Lou.” Laughing, Zarah tells Kaiyen that it’s nice to see him so carefree and confident. “You could learn a lot from him.” “You want me to start sleeping round?” Kaiyen asks with a raised eyebrow. “No!” gasps Zarah, “But I mean in terms of how he presents himself. You’re a good lad, Kai. Kind, funny. And you’re a good-looking one too, just like Louie. But you don’t put yourself out there. You need to be more forthcoming, have more confidence in yourself. Then you’ll thrive.” Smiling, Kaiyen thanks his aunt for the pep-talk. Teenager Zian Mistry then comes downstairs in his footie kit. “I’m going for a kick-about with Finn” Zian says, but Zarah shakes her head. “Nuh-uh. You’re still grounded, mister.” “Mum!” complains Zian. “You don’t get to just bunk off school and not expect any consequences, Zee! Now go on, I’m sure you’ve got homework you can be getting on with.” As Zian leaves, Kaiyen looks at Zarah and rolls his eyes. “Kids(!)” he quips.
Above the pub, Curtis has finally awoken, and is milling around in the kitchen when Paul approaches him. He moves towards Curtis and pulls him into a hug. “Come here, lad” Paul reassuringly takes him in his arms. Curtis rests his head on Paul’s shoulder. “She was so scared, dad” Curtis’ voice breaks. Paul nods. “I know. I bet you were, too.” “I just didn’t know what to do” admits the teenager, “And… and she told me something. Something that… that shocked me. I didn’t know what to do.” “Do you want to talk about it?” offers Paul, sensing that Curtis needs to get something off his chest. Curtis looks into his eyes, desperate to tell Paul the truth – but he can’t, and quickly shakes his head. “I just want some breakfast” Curtis whispers, earning a smile from Paul. “Always thinking of your stomach, eh? Well you go and settle in the living room – I’ll knock you up some brekkie. Go on.” Thanking Paul, Curtis leaves the kitchen. Paul watches him go, deflated.
“What are you doing here?” asks a surprised Mollie as she and Kelsey sit in the living room, Charlie standing by the door with his arms folded, leaning against the door frame. Kelsey shrugs her shoulders. “I’ve moved back. I wanted to let you know today, surprise you, but… I heard about Lily.” Mollie nods, “We still don’t know what’s happened… Dad’s gone down to the hospital, so it’s just a waiting game.” “She’ll be alright though, Mols” insists Charlie, “Hopefully it’s nothing…” “You don’t spend the night in hospital for ‘nothing’, Charlie” Mollie says. She then laughs. “You’re probably wondering why he’s here, Kels, but he’s, er… he’s actually my boyfriend now.” Kelsey arches an eyebrow. “Wow, a lot changes in a year, hey? So this is the secret fella!” she giggles. Charlie nods. “You’re looking well, though. London’s been good for you” Charlie says. Kelsey mockingly pushes her hair over her shoulder. “The glow-up’s real, hey?” she teases. She then turns back to Mollie. “I’m here to support you” Kelsey insists, taking Mollie’s hand as Mollie smiles at her.
Meanwhile, Matt arrives at the hospital and parks his car in a panic. He rushes into A&E and over to the front desk, greeting the receptionist. “I’m here to see my daughter, she was brought in last night… Lily Preston?” Before the receptionist can say anything, Matt hears Imogen’s voice say his name, “Matt.” Matt turns to face Imogen, and rushes towards her. “Is she okay? What’s happened?” he asks. Imogen places a hand on his arm. “Not here” Imogen insists, guiding Matt outside. They exit the A&E department, before Matt stops in his tracks. “Stop doing this, Imogen” Matt insists, “Just tell me what’s happened. I’ve been going mad with worry for hours…!” “Lily’s fine, babe” Imogen assures him, “But there’s… there’s something I need to tell you. Something she’s been keeping from us, from everyone…” Matt’s eyes bulge as he prepares himself for the worst. “What is it?” he asks gently. Imogen bites her bottom lip. “Lily’s, er… well – you need to promise not to get mad.” “Imogen…” “She’s pregnant, Matt” Imogen reveals, stunning Matt, “Our daughter’s pregnant.” Back at the hospital, Matt is smoking a cigarette, not saying a word. Imogen stands behind him, watching him sympathetically. Some time has passed since Imogen’s revelation, but Matt is yet to say much – concerning Imogen. “Say something” Imogen presses eventually as Matt puffs on the cigarette. He stubs it out and sighs. “What do you want me to say, Imogen?” Matt asks outright, “You’ve just told me our teenage daughter is up the duff, so what do you expect me to say?” “We need to support her, Matt” Imogen says, “Not be angry.” “I’m not angry, I’m just…” “Disappointed? Confused? Shocked? Cos I felt that too. All of those emotions, I felt them, but most of all, I just felt love. For our daughter. Because no matter what, that’s what she needs right now. Our love and our support.” “I’m not like you, Imogen” Matt sighs, “I’m not the parent you are.” “I’m no perfect parent” she says, “But I’m trying my best, cos I love our girls. And I know you do too.” Imogen wraps her arms around Matt’s shoulders and kisses his cheek, “So if you promise – and I mean promise – not to lash out… we can head inside, see our daughter, and give her the biggest hug. Okay?” Eventually, Matt nods. “Yeah” he whispers.
Elsewhere, a reluctant Chloe arrives home, letting herself into the Kinsella house. She is relieved to find it is mostly empty… until Fi arrives in the living room. “Good night?” Fi asks with a raised eyebrow. Chloe shrugs. “Yeah, was alright. Kipped at Elyse’s after we had a drink” Chloe lies. Fi scoffs. “Right! That why Emma saw you snogging some bloke outside the pub?” Fi teases. Sighing, Chloe shakes her head. “Snitch!”
Some time later, Leona is preparing lunch for the family. She smiles as her daughter Elyse Anderson joins her. “Messaged that teacher fella?” Leona asks. Elyse confirms that she is yet to. “I’m not sure I’m feeling it.” “Oh, come on, El – he’s attractive, has a career, and is clearly into you. What’s the harm?” “Maybe I’m not ready for the commitment” Elyse sighs. Leona presses her lips. “That’s not what you were saying the other day…” “Just drop it, mum” Elyse begs. They are then joined by Leona’s future step-son Aaron Gordon. “Last night was fun, hey, El?” says Aaron. Elyse nods. “Yeah, was good. Get any numbers?” “Nah, but I’m fine with that – there’s someone I’m interested in.” “Ooh” Leona teases, “Right, lunch is nearly ready. Is Kelsey home yet?” Aaron shakes his head. “Not as far as I know. Want me to give her a call?” “I’ll do it” sighs Leona.
She steps out of the kitchen and dials Kelsey’s number. At Mollie’s, Kelsey is getting ready to leave when her phone rings. “That’s my mum… she’ll be calling me home for this family meal she’s got planned. You’ll be okay?” Kelsey asks. Mollie nods. “I’ll be fine, thanks babes” she says, turning to Charlie, “I have Charlie.” Kelsey squeezes Mollie’s hand. “Love you” she smiles. Pulling her friend into a tight hug, Mollie smiles. “I love you too.” The friends then bid farewell to each other, before Kelsey leaves. Once she has gone, Charlie smiles at Mollie. “That was a nice surprise” he says, and Mollie nods. “Yeah” she whispers.
Back at Zarah’s, Louie is now awake, and heads downstairs, where he finds Kaiyen sat watching TV. Kaiyen pauses the TV and turns to his mate. “So, good night?” he asks. Louie nods. “Yeah, was good.” “I didn’t see this Jake at the pub…” “I met him at a B&B after last orders at the Crown. There were a few fitties, but it just made me realise that I’m kinda digging Jake right now.” “Are you two together then, or…?” Kaiyen trails off. “Nah, we’re just casual. It’s just sex. But… but I guess I kinda want more. I didn’t think I was ready to settle down, but Jake’s different.” “Too good to be true?” Kaiyen offers. Tilting his head, Louie looked confused. “What makes you say that?” “He’s closeted, Lou” Kaiyen reminds Louie, “What’s gonna happen when you fall for him and want something more, and he’s unable to give it to you?” “He’s looking at moving out” Louie says, “And then he can come out, once he’s away from his arse of a dad. Trust me, Kai, I know what I’m doing. Maybe focus on your own love life, hey?” With that, Louie walks into the kitchen, leaving behind Kaiyen, who is concerned about his best mate.
Meanwhile, at the Kinsella home, Emma enters the living room to find Chloe sitting there. She smirks. “Dirty stop-out” teases Emma. Chloe looks her up and down. “Thanks for grassing to my aunt” giggles Chloe, not really as upset as she is acting. Emma presses her lips. “Yeah, sorry! Still, we’ve all done it – you’re young, you’re allowed to stay out. Was he a nice guy?” “He’s a nurse” Chloe reveals, “But I won’t be seeing him again. He’s nice, but not my type.” “Oh well, we’ve all had to kiss a few frogs” says Emma. She then laughs. “Ronan’s hanging today. I think he regrets drinking so many beers.” “He never could handle his alcohol – I was only young, but I remember when he had just turned 18, him coming down to ours for a family BBQ. He got so drunk, my dad and Fi had to carry him back to the B&B.”
Chloe’s face changes as she mentions her father, who – as only Emma and Chloe know – isn’t her biological father. “Have you thought about contacting your mum?” Emma offers gently. Chloe shakes her head. “She still keeps trying to talk to me. I know Fi’s probably told her where I am, but… but I ain’t budging. I don’t wanna hear from her.” “Give her a chance, Chlo” Emma suggests, “She’s your mother at the end of the day.” “She lied to me, for 26 years” Chloe says, “I can’t forgive that.” “You don’t have to forgive, but maybe you can accept it and move past it?” “No” Chloe puts her foot down, “There’s no coming back.” Getting up, Chloe leaves the room.
“The doctors said you’re okay to come home” Imogen tells Lily as she joins her in her hospital room. Lily nods, looking at her dad Matt, who remains silent. “Dad?” Lily whispers. Matt looks at his little girl. “Let’s get your stuff” Matt says softly. “Are you angry?” asks Lily. Matt stares at her, unsure what to say: eventually, he speaks. “No” he says, “I’m not angry.” He moves towards his daughter and takes her hand. “We’ll get through this, as a family” Matt assures her. Lily smiles, pulling her dad into a tight hug. “Now come on… let’s get you home.” Some time later, the Prestons are ready to leave. As they go, Imogen thanks nurse Ewan Price, who has just started his shift. “You guys take care” smiles Ewan. Matt and Lily leave the ED, followed by Imogen. “Whose car do you wanna go in?” Matt asks. Lily looks between her parents. “I’ll go with mum” she says. Matt nods, kissing his daughter’s forehead before kissing Imogen passionately. He approaches his car, turning to watch as Imogen and Lily head for Imogen’s car. Once they are in the car, Matt climbs into his, and stares at the wall in front of him. He clenches his fists, slamming the steering wheel with anger.
Meanwhile, back at the pub, the Anderson-Gordons have settled down for lunch. Kelsey has now joined them, and is enjoying catching up with Elyse and Aaron, her half-siblings. Curtis is sat silently, staring into space – noticed by his dad, Paul. “Tuck in, everyone” Leona says as she places a bowl of salad down in the middle of the table. Aaron dives into the food, causing Kelsey to laugh. “Still a gannet, hey?” she teases. Elyse nods. “He’s always stuffing his face, ain’t you Az?” “Alright!” Aaron tuts, “No need to comment on my eating habits, yeah?” “Everything okay Curtis?” Leona questions. Curtis looks at her and nods. “Yeah, sorry, just… thinkin’ about Lil.” “She’ll be alright” Kelsey opines gently, “Do you know what happened?” “She was just feeling unwell” lies Curtis, but Paul can tell he isn’t telling the truth.
“Come on then, Kels, tell us about your time in London. How come you didn’t come home for the summer?” Kelsey pushes some cucumber around her plate. “I, er… I actually stayed with Ryan for the summer.” Leona raises an eyebrow. “I bet that was nice” she says. Kelsey nods. “Yeah, it was. Ryan’s fella is lovely. Proper handsome, too. Have you met him?” “No… we’re hoping Ryan will bring him to the wedding, though” Paul says. “He’s great, honestly. He has a good job, too. Their apartment is lovely.” As Kelsey gushes about her half-brother’s life down in London, Elyse and Aaron both look out of place. Curtis looks down at his phone to see a message from Lily: he reads it, before slamming his cutlery down on the table and jumping up, darting from the room. Leona calls his name and is about to get up to chase him, but Paul places a hand on hers. “Leave him” he says, “I’ll go.”
Walking down Marwood Road, Louie is enjoying the fresh air as he thinks. He breathes in the warm September air, the weather beginning to turn as October approaches. Suddenly, Louie’s whole demeanour changes, as he sees Jacob ‘Jake’ Howell walking towards him. “Hey” greets Jake, a bemused look on his face, “Fancy seeing you here!” “What are you doing here?” Louie asks as Jake looks around before kissing his lips. Jake points towards the shop. “I just needed a new vape…” “Don’t you have a shop near yours?” Louie asks. “I was in the area. Jeez, Lou, anyone’d think you weren’t happy to see me?” frowns Jake. Louie softens. “No, no, I am, just… surprised.” Louie kisses Jake again, though Jake looks uneasy. “Sorry, I forget you’re not out. But no-one can see us” Louie insists. Jake smiles. “Yeah, you’re right. Hey, fancy a drink later?” Despite his unease, Louie nods. “Yeah. Yeah, sure.” A smile on his face, Jake tells Louie he just needs to pop into the shop – before disappearing into Drive Buy, as Louie sighs.
Meanwhile, Chloe is across the road. She stops as she looks over at Touch of Glam salon. Crossing the street, Chloe looks at the advertisement for a new hair stylist in the salon window. She enters the shop and greets salon co-owner, Naomi Morgan. “I’m really sorry, we’re fully-booked today and short-staffed” Naomi apologises, run off her feet. Chloe nods. “No worries. I was actually here about the job you’re advertising…” Naomi arches an eyebrow. “You qualified?” she asks. Chloe laughs. “Absolutely! Spent the last 8 years working in salons down in London. I can do hair, lashes, nails… jack of all trades, me(!)” Chloe quips. Naomi looks around her. “I’ll hire you on the spot if you can start today!” Naomi laughs, half-joking. Chloe puts her bag down. “Where do you want me?” she winks. Naomi scoffs. “I mean, I was joking, but…” She looks around her at the busy salon, “If you’re up for it. We’ll call it a trial?” “You won’t regret it” says Chloe.
Mollie opens the front door of her house to find Imogen and Lily walking up the garden path. She darts out the front door and greets Lily with a hug. “You scared the life out of me” Mollie gasps, holding her sister tightly. Charlie watches from the doorway. “Come on, girls, let’s go inside” Imogen ushers them inside, just as Matt pulls up in his car. Getting out, he heads into the house too. “So what happened?” Mollie asks. Imogen looks to Lily. “Just a bad case of food poisoning” Imogen lies. Lily breathes a sigh of relief. “And they kept you in overnight for that?” Mollie asks. Lily nods. “Said they needed to monitor me. But it’s cool now, I’m fine. Just an upset stomach.” “Well I’m glad you’re okay” Mollie whispers. Matt joins them in the room and rests a hand on Lily’s shoulder. “Why don’t you head upstairs and get some sleep?” Matt suggests. “Good idea” Imogen adds. After thanking her family, Lily heads up the stairs, leaving Mollie, Matt, Imogen and Charlie. Charlie grabs his jacket. “I’ll leave you guys to it” Charlie says, pecking Mollie’s lips, “I’m glad Lily’s okay.” “Thank you babe” Mollie says, squeezing Charlie’s hand, before watching as he leaves. Once he is gone, Mollie’s face hardens. “I know you’re lying” she says, “So come on… what really happened?” Matt looks at Imogen.
Elsewhere, Paul knocks on the bedroom door of Curtis. “Go away” calls out a grumpy Curtis. Ignoring his teenage son, Paul pushes the door open. “What’s wrong, son?” Paul asks. Curtis wipes tears from his eyes. “I’m fine” he lies. “Give over! You’re clearly not.” Paul takes a seat on Curtis’ bed, “Come on, you can talk to me.” “I can’t, dad” Curtis’ voice breaks, “I can’t tell you cos you’ll hate me. You’ll hate me.” “Course I won’t!” Paul promises, “I could never hate you. You’re my boy.” “I’ve done somethin’ stupid” Curtis whispers. Paul’s eyes widen. “Is it to do with Lily? You didn’t hurt her, did ya?” “What? No! No, I could never! I would never! Why would you think that?!” “I don’t, I’m just… I’m just checking” Paul swears. He squeezes Curtis’ shoulder. “What’s happened?” he asks. Curtis takes a deep breath. “Me and Lil… we’re in trouble. Big trouble.” He looks into Paul’s eyes. “Lily’s pregnant, dad. That’s why she’s gone to the hospital… cos she’s pregnant, and she’s too far gone to get rid of it.” Paul, gobsmacked, takes in the news as Curtis breaks down in his arms.
Regular Cast: Aaron Gordon: Jack James Ryan Charlie Cullen: Billy Price Chloe Hall: Charlotte Jordan Curtis Gordon: Jaden Ladega Elyse Anderson: Andrea Ali Emma Kinsella: Sammy Winward Ewan Price: Richard Wisker Imogen Preston: Catherine Tyldesley Kaiyen Chadha: Adam Hussain Kelsey Gordon: Yasmin Finney Leona Anderson: Diane Parish Lily Preston: Ellie Dadd Louie Renshaw: Noah Valentine Matthew “Matt” Preston: David Tag Mollie Preston: Rosie Bentham Naomi Morgan: Kim Medcalf Paul Gordon: Robert Beck Ronan Kinsella: Ayden Callaghan Dr Zarah Mistry: Bhavna Limbachia
Recurring Cast: Fiona “Fi” Kinsella: Deena Payne Jacob “Jake” Howell: Aedan Duckworth Martha Dobbs: Lin Blakley Zian Mistry: Juhaim Rasul Choudhury
• ORIGINAL PUBLICATION: 2023.10.04
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Dec 31, 2023 15:00:27 GMT
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Dec 31, 2023 15:00:59 GMT
Saturday 23rd September 2023
Standing in the house he shares with his grandmother and brother, barman and footballer Charlie Cullen looks into the mirror at the suit he is wearing. He exhales deeply, nervous about the evening ahead. Making his way downstairs, Charlie is met by his nan, Nancy Cullen, who gushes over him. “You look very dapper, Charlie” Nancy compliments. She kisses Charlie’s cheek. “I’m so proud of you.” “It’s not too much?” Charlie asks. Nancy shakes her head. “Not at all.” Charlie is then joined in the living room by his older brother, Damon Cullen. “Going on the pull?” teases Damon, earning a tut from his brother. “Yeah, and I’m taking Mollie with me(!)” Charlie sarks. He then sighs. “I feel bad, it’s Matt’s birthday and I’m dragging Mollie away to some footie do with a bunch of people I don’t even know.” “It’s a free bar, right?” Damon asks. Charlie nods. “Then chill – she’ll appreciate the free booze. She wouldn’t be going if she didn’t think it’d be better than spending the night with her dad.” “Yeah, true” says Charlie. He then checks the time. “Right, I’d best go and collect Mollie. Innabit. Don’t wait up, nan.” Pecking Nancy’s cheek, Charlie rushes from the house.
At the Prestons’, it is the birthday of dad Matt, but nobody is in the mood to celebrate. It has been a week since the family learnt that 17 year-old Lily was pregnant, and the mood is still sombre: aside from eldest daughter Mollie Preston, who is glammed up and ready for her boyfriend’s party at the football club he has been signed to (and does not know that Lily is pregnant). “You sure you don’t mind me skipping your birthday?” Mollie asks her dad Matthew ‘Matt’ Preston, who shakes his head. “No point in celebrating 38 – it’s not even a big number!” laughs Matt. He hugs his daughter. “You have a good night, yeah?” The doorbell rings, and Mollie excitedly leaves the kitchen, calling out “That’ll be Charlie!” She opens the door to find Charlie standing there, suited and booted. “You look… amazing” gasps Charlie as he looks at Mollie’s dress. Mollie does a twirl. “Will I do?” she asks. Charlie nods. “Y… yeah” he insists. Mollie then takes his hand. “We’d best get going… it’ll be starting soon.” As Mollie and Charlie leave, Matt’s wife Imogen Preston joins him in the kitchen. “Lily’s upstairs asleep” Imogen sighs, “Was that Mollie asking questions again?” “No… she’s still none the wiser about the baby. But we can’t hide this for long, Imogen. It ain’t fair. The girls need to adjust to the fact we’ll have a baby in the house.”
At the salon, Chloe Hall is coming to the end of her third shift of the week, the last trial shift she was asked to do. Her boss Naomi Morgan smirks as they close up the salon. “Well, you’ve certainly impressed me this week, Chloe” Naomi admits, “I was sceptical when you popped in asking for a job, but… but you’re good.” Chloe grins. “I told you, I was born to beautify people!” “I’ve had a chat with Imogen… we’d like to offer you a permanent position.” Chloe excitedly squeals, “Thank you so much!” she gasps, “You won’t regret it!” “You’ve proven that” laughs Naomi, “Here.” She pulls some money from her pocket and hands it to Chloe. “It’s not the full wage, but it’s not fair for you to have been working for free – not when you’ve saved my bacon this week. I’ll see you Monday?” “Bright and early!” chirps Chloe, grabbing her bag and coat.
As she leaves, Naomi sighs, turning the ‘open’ sign to ‘closed’. Chloe rushes down Marwood Road, passing club manager Rebecca Callaghan as she goes. Rebecca is on the phone to somebody. “I’m just nipping to the shop, but then I’ll be round. Not that I should… not after you went to that speed dating night at the pub and completely forgot about me” smirks Rebecca. On the other end, her secret lover Conor Kinsella scoffs. “It was just a bit of fun! I didn’t get off with anybody. How about you come round and I’ll make it up to you…” “No” Rebecca grins, “I’ve got a better idea. Meet me outside the apartments in half hour. We’re going out.” As Rebecca hangs up, Conor gulps.
In Drive Buy Supermarket, Beverley ‘Bev’ Daniels is behind the counter, helping out her daughter, shopkeeper Nikki, following the death of her husband Dave. Rebecca enters and smiles at Bev. “Evening Bev” greets Rebecca. Bev nods. “Alright love? Hey, how’s Alf doing?” Bev is referring to Alf Preston, the father-in-law of Rebecca’s sister Imogen. “Okay, I think… he’s been busy with work now the kids are back!” “I can’t believe he’s still working at his age” gasps Bev, “He’s retirement age now!” “That job’s his life” laughs Rebecca, “No matter how much he moans about it! No, he’ll work till they carry him out in a box. Anyway, you’re here, behind the counter…!” “Helping out my daughter” Bev says, “She’s barely been out of bed this week. Poor Noah’d have to fend for himself if it weren’t for me.” Pressing her lips sympathetically, Rebecca nods. “Bless her. Any news on the funeral?” “Week on Wednesday, love” Bev informs her, “I just hope there’s a good turn-out.” “Course there will be… Dave was loved round here.”
Rebecca then picks up a bottle of wine. “On the sauce hey?” smirks Bev. With a laugh, Rebecca tells Bev that it’s for later – she’s going out with a guy. “Ooh, make sure he pays! My granddaughter Courtney is always telling me about the dates she goes on, with guys expecting her to pay half! Back in my day, the man always paid. Whatever happened to chivalry, hey?” “I’m not against paying my share, Bev” chuckles Rebecca, “But I’m going out with a gentleman. He’ll pay, that’s for sure.” “You’ve seen him before then?” nosies Bev as she scans the bottle of wine. Rebecca titters. “It’s kind of a long-running thing. Nothing serious, though. I ain’t into anything serious.” “You must be in your 30s now, Rebecca. You need to find yourself a man and settle down. Nice house, kids… maybe a dog.” “We don’t all want that nowadays, Bev” Rebecca says, “I’m more than happy to stay childless for the rest of time.” She hands Bev a £10 note and tells her to keep the change, before leaving the shop, as Bev presses her lips.
Meanwhile, Charlie and Mollie get out of a taxi at a posh-looking hotel overlooking a golf course. Mollie looks around her and smirks. “Bit high-end, ain’t it?” she laughs. Charlie sees his manager, James Garraway, standing outside the front, smoking a cigarette. “That’s my manager” Charlie points out. He and Mollie then approach James. “Charlie!” exclaims James, stubbing the cigarette out, “I’m so glad you made it! This must be Mollie?” Mollie smiles as James pulls her in for a hug. “You were right, Charl – proper sort” laughs James. Mollie laughs uneasily. Charlie nods. “Yeah, yeah, she’s stunning, isn’t she?” He adds. “Sure is. Right, you’d better come inside – meet the lads!” says James. He leads Charlie and Mollie into the hotel reception, and through to a function room off the main reception. The room is decorated with fancy decorations, and Mollie gasps in awe as she looks around. James leads Charlie and Mollie over to a group of lads, all in suits and tuxes. “Lads, this is our new recruit, Charlie Cullen.” Charlie waves awkwardly.
Soon, a woman swoops in and places her hands on Mollie’s shoulders. “Over here” she giggles, guiding Mollie away from Charlie. “Sorry, I was hoping to stay with my boyfriend…” “Oh, we all were” laughs Aisha Khalid as she leads Mollie over to a group of females, “But they all mingle, and so do we. I’m Aisha.” “Mollie” says Mollie, “Is… are you here with a lad on the team too?” she asks. Aisha nods. “My boyfriend, Brandon. He’s the fit tall one over there.” Aisha points into the group, but Mollie cannot tell which one she is talking about – to her, they are all attractive, and equally as tall.
She then introduces Mollie to a group of women. “Girls, this is Mollie. Her boyfriend’s a new player. Mollie, this is Chantelle, Eliza, Kayleigh and Jodie.” “Hi” Mollie shuffles her feet. “So what do you do Mollie?” asks Eliza. Mollie feels her cheeks flush red. “I’m a waitress” she admits, before quickly adding, “But it’s only part-time. I’m starting my second year of uni next week. Studying fashion.” “Lovely!” Aisha grins, “I’m a model. If you couldn’t tell.” Aisha pouts and pulls a pose, with Chantelle rolling her eyes. Mollie laughs nervously. “Well you have a lovely figure” she says. Aisha wraps her arms around Mollie’s shoulders. “I like you!” she gushes.
The Rose and Crown is fairly quiet as Matt and Imogen arrive for a quiet drink to celebrate Matt’s birthday. Imogen finds a table and sends Matt off to the bar, where he greets barman Louie Renshaw. “Hey, happy birthday Mr P” says Louie. “Please, call me Matt” Matt chuckles, “It makes me feel old when you call me ‘Mr’.” Louie grins. “No worries. Mollie said it was your birthday today. What are we drinking?” As Matt relays his order to Louie, Louie begins pouring his pint. He then makes Imogen’s drink, before telling him the price. “Is that for both?” asks a confused Matt. “The pint’s on me” Louie winks, and Matt nods. “Thanks Louie” he says, handing him the money for Imogen’s. Joining Imogen at their table, Matt sighs. “I’ll never not find it weird that Mollie’s mate fancies me.” “Oh, he’s harmless” Imogen insists, “From what Mollie’s said, he fancies any guy that moves.” “I… think it’s still slut-shaming if they’re a guy, Imi” chuckles Matt. Imogen shrugs. “Arrest me!” she quips.
Upstairs, 17 y/o Curtis Gordon is chilling in his room. His father Paul Gordon soon joins him. “How you doing?” Paul asks as he perches on the edge of Curtis’ bed. Curtis nods. “Yeah, cool. Listen, about what I said the other day… thanks for not telling mum.” Paul sighs. “The only reason I haven’t told her is because I haven’t worked out what to do, and she’ll go mad if she finds out. But she’s going to have to know soon. I was thinking… I was thinking you could tell her.” Curtis’ face drops. “No! No, dad, she’ll go mental!” Curtis argues. Paul places a hand on Curtis’ shoulder. “She’ll calm down, Curtis. The other option is I tell her, but… she needs to know, soon.” “Just let me and Lily sort it out” Curtis begs, “We might not even be keeping it.” “I thought you said it was too late for a termination?” Paul asks. Curtis gulps. “I… I haven’t told her yet, but… but I’ve been doing some reading online. I think we should have the baby adopted out” Curtis reveals. Paul’s eyes bulge.
Back at the hotel, Charlie is enjoying a glass of champagne when he is joined by Mollie. “You disappeared” Charlie says as Mollie sighs. “Got dragged off by one of the WAGs” laughs Mollie, “Hey, does this make me a WAG now?” she questions. Charlie shrugs. “Dunno. Does that appeal to you?” “Kind of a sexy title, ain’t it?” laughs Mollie, “Just makes me think of Footballers’ Wives!” “You’ve watched that?” “Mum had the boxset – lockdown was a lonely time, okay!” Mollie exclaims. The pair are then joined by Aisha, and a handsome lad. “Mollie, this is my boyfriend, Brandon. Brandon, this is Mollie. You must be Charlie?” Aisha asks. Charlie nods, while Mollie greets the guy. Brandon Roscoe smiles. “Lovely to meet you” he says, his voice soft and calming. He then turns to Charlie. “Welcome to the team, kid” Brandon says. Charlie nods. “Cheers mate. What do you play?” “Mid-field” Brandon reveals, “Been part of the team for years now. I’m captain, too.”
“This means nothing to me” Mollie whispers to Aisha, who laughs. “Don’t worry, I’ve been with Brandon for two years and I still zone out whenever football chat comes up” she giggles. The group are then approached by James. “Nice to see you taking the newbies under your wing, Bran” James says, wrapping an arm around Brandon’s shoulder. Brandon nods. “Just introducing myself. Hey, Jim, I need to chat to you. Do you have a moment?” As James and Brandon walk away, Aisha turns back to Charlie. “I know it’s a lot to take in. All feels a bit weird. But the lads are really nice… and so are the girls, too. You should come and meet them.” “Yeah, I will” Charlie says, “Just… in a bit. I need the loo.” With that, Charlie walks off. As he searches for the toilet, he stumbles upon a corridor, where he sees Brandon and James talking in hushed tones. Though Charlie doesn’t hang around long, the conversation seems heated. Soon, Charlie finds the toilet – but he is thinking about what Brandon and James could possibly be arguing about.
Elsewhere, Rebecca arrives in the car park of the Oakford Court Apartments, and smirks as she sees her lover Conor standing, waiting for her. “About time” Conor says as Rebecca pulls him into a steamy kiss. “So where are we going?” Conor asks. “To the pub” Rebecca says, taking Conor’s hand and leading him towards The Rose and Crown, as Conor looks panicked. Entering the pub, a sheepish Conor looks around. He leans in close to Rebecca’s ear. “Are you sure this is what you want?” he asks. “I want everyone in here to be wondering whether we’re together or just sleeping with each other” teases Rebecca, “It’s no fun no longer being the centre of gossip.” Leaning in, Rebecca kisses Conor in the middle of the pub.
A nearby Matt raises an eyebrow, while in the corner, Conor’s mother Fiona ‘Fi’ Kinsella is enjoying a drink with her friend Martha Dobbs. She groans when she sees Rebecca and Conor. “Not another one” Fi frets. Martha looks over and frowns. “What’s the matter?” “Another girl whose heart he’s going to break” Fi rubs her temples, “I don’t see why girls go near him anymore – surely they can tell it’s only a matter of time before he dumps them, cheats on them, or leaves them hanging?” As Martha laughs, Conor pulls away from the kiss, and smirks at Rebecca. “Didn’t have you down for an exhibitionist” he teases. Rebecca shrugs. “This doesn’t mean we’re together” she warns, “I don’t do relationships.” “Of course” says Conor, “Because you’re scared of getting your heart broken.” “Because I don’t believe in devoting myself to one man for the rest of my life” Rebecca says, “Now come on – mine’s a G&T.” Escaping from the pub through the back doors, Curtis sighs as he breathes in the cold autumn air. He moves towards the car park and spots a hooded figure standing at the edge. Curtis approaches him. “Dyl” he calls out, and his friend Dylan Morgan turns to face Curtis. He breathes a cloud of smoke from his vape into the air. “You alright, Curt?” Dylan asks, confused by the concerning text he received from his mate. Curtis nods. “Just needed to get out” he says honestly, “Fancy a walk?” “Better make it quick. I’ve, er… got a bird coming round” Dylan reveals. Curtis raises an eyebrow. “Yeah?” he laughs, “What’s her name?” “I don’t kiss and tell” Dylan says, “She goes to our college, though. Proper fit, too. She’s got some fit mates – y’know, if you ever get bored of Lily.” “Piss off” sighs Curtis. Dylan presses his lips. “You alright? You seem a bit het up.” “I’ve just got a lot going on in my life” Curtis huffs. With a nod, Dylan tells Curtis that he’s sorry he hasn’t been there recently. “I’ve been a crap friend.” “Yeah, you have” Curtis says honestly. Dylan looks at him. “Cheers for the honesty, bro…” “Sorry” apologises Curtis. He turns to face Dylan. “I’m sorry.” Putting a hand on Curtis’ shoulder as they walk, Dylan squeezes it supportively.
At the hotel, Mollie has stepped out for some air. She looks up at the night sky and exhales, wondering how she has ended up here. The crunching of gravel under feet disturbs her, and Mollie turns to see Aisha, carrying two glasses of champagne. “Thought you could use a drink” Aisha says as she hands Mollie a glass. Taking a sip, Mollie thanks Aisha. “It’s a lot, right?” Aisha asks. Mollie nods. “Yeah… I’m not used to the whole ‘glam parties’ thing.” “This is just the tip of the ice-berg” laughs Aisha, “Just a small get-together for the lads. You want to see the after season parties… they’re wild.” Aisha notices a look of concern on Mollie’s face. “You’ll get used to it, though. And nothing has to change… you’re still the same girl you were before. Just with a footballer boyfriend.” “Aish” calls Brandon as he exits the hotel, “Come on, we’re going.” Aisha downs her champagne and hands Mollie the glass. “I’ll see you around” she says, before rushing across the gravel car park after Brandon. Mollie sighs and heads inside.
“So, are you two a thing?” Matt asks his sister-in-law Rebecca in the pub. Conor and Rebecca have joined him and Imogen for a drink. Conor looks to Rebecca, whose lips twist into a satisfied smirk. “We’re just having fun” Rebecca insists, “No strings attached.” “Seemed a bit more than fun, snogging in the middle of the pub” Imogen says, “That’s basically going public!” “Just marking my territory, sis” teases Rebecca. Conor laughs. “She’s a bit jealous that I came to the speed dating night the other day.” Imogen is taken aback, “I can see why!” “Anyway, enough about us” Rebecca says, turning to Matt, “Happy birthday Matty.” “Cheers, Bex” Matt smiles.
Behind the bar, landlady Leona Anderson is joined by her fiancé Paul, whom has come down to help out. “I thought you popped out the back?” Leona frowns. Paul shakes his head. “No, I’ve been upstairs the whole time. Must’ve been Curtis.” “Is he still in a strop?” Leona asks. Paul takes a deep breath. “I wouldn’t say he’s in a strop…” “He’s been in an awful mood since Lily went to hospital last week, Paul” says Leona matter-of-factly, “So yeah, he’s in a strop.” “He’s got a lot going on.” “Like what? College has just started, he’s had a full summer… there’s absolutely no reason for him to be struggling.” “Leona, have some sympathy” Paul tells his fiancée, “He’s a teenager. We don’t know what he’s going through.” “Clearly you do – so come on, what is it?” Paul stares at Leona, unsure whether or not he should tell her. Eventually, he shakes his head. “I don’t know” Paul lies, “I just know he’s struggling.” Leona is about to say something more, but is distracted by an approaching customer.
Walking home after closing the shop, Bev hums to herself. She thinks about her daughter, Nikki, who is no doubt still curled up in bed, unable to move as she grieves the death of her husband. Bev ponders the funeral: how she will get Nikki through it, and what happens after – whether Bev returns home, or stays a while longer. Her thoughts are interrupted when she sees her grandson Jason Harding jogging towards her. “You’re out late” Bev comments, to which Jason confirms that he is. “Theo’s in bed and Beau’s down for a nap so I thought I’d go for a run. You okay, nan?” “Just closed the shop. Your mother’s not doing too well. I think she’d really love it if you popped in.” “I’ll pop round tomorrow” Jason promises. Bev smiles. “Thanks love. Here, you tell Chelsea how amazing she is. It must be difficult, the after-effects of labour, raising a new baby, all while supporting you and your family through their grief. Don’t let her efforts go unnoticed.” Bidding farewell to his nan, Jason heads off, as Bev also continues down the street.
Across the road, Curtis and Dylan have fallen into a familiar silence as they walk along the edge of the common. Eventually, one of them speaks. “So you gonna tell me what’s bothering you?” Dylan asks. “Just feel like I have the weight of the world on my shoulders” Curtis admits. Scrunching up his face with amusement, Dylan laughs. “Where’ve you heard that expression? You’ve been reading your mum’s romance novels again, ain’t you?” he teases. Curtis looks at him, stone-faced. “It ain’t funny Dyl” Curtis says, “My life’s crumbling around me and there’s nothing I can do to stop it.” “Look” Dylan stops in his tracks, “You’ve got about 10 minutes before I need to get home to meet this girl. But you need to stop talking in riddles… what’s the point in telling me something’s up and then just hinting at things?” “I want to tell you, honestly, but… but I need to talk to Lil first.” Dylan’s demeanour becomes more serious. “Are you breaking up with her?” he asks. Curtis shakes his head. “No – God, no! No, I’m… it’s worse than that.” “How can it be worse?” “Dyl… she’s pregnant.” Dylan’s jaw drops. “You’ve got her up the duff?” he gasps. Curtis nods sheepishly. “I’ve messed up, bro…” “You’re telling me” smirks Dylan, but despite Dylan’s playful reaction, Curtis is clearly fretting – badly.
“Brandon left in a hurry” Charlie says as he joins James by the bar in the hotel function room. James shrugs, knocking back a shot. “Busy day tomorrow, ain’t he?” James says, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand. He then grips Charlie’s shoulder. “You don’t become a star like that kid without making sacrifices. Trust me, I know.” Charlie nods. “You played in the prem, right?” Charlie asks. James confirms that he did. “Arsenal, and Man U. I was bloody good, an’ all. Now look at me… managing a team. I had it all, Charlie. Beautiful wife, amazing kids, nice car, gorgeous house… even more stunning girls at my feet. But I messed up.” “How?” Charlie asks, but James suddenly sobers, refusing to say anymore. “You should have another drink” James insists, “The bar’s free, after all.” As James walks away, Charlie sighs. Mollie then approaches. “Let’s get out of here” she says. Charlie nods. “I think I’m done” he admits. The pair link hands as they leave.
Meanwhile, Matt is tipsy as he and Imogen prepare to leave the pub. Imogen sighs as her husband chats to Conor in his drunken state. She turns to Rebecca and laughs. “You have all of this to come” sighs Imogen. Rebecca shakes her head. “Me and Conor will never be serious enough for me to put him to bed” Rebecca says. Arching an eyebrow, Imogen asks Rebecca why. “I don’t do relationships, do I?” Rebecca reminds her, “It’s just the way I am.” “I respect that” Imogen says, “Sometimes I think they’re more hassle than they’re worth!” Matt wraps an arm around Imogen’s shoulder and declares that it’s time to head home – birthday sex is the best sex. Cringing, Imogen tells Matt that all he’s getting tonight is a glass of water and his bed.
As the couple leave, Rebecca rests her head on Conor’s shoulder. “They’re such a cute couple” she comments. Conor nods in agreement. “They are. Now… how about we head back to mine?” Giggling, Rebecca takes Conor’s hand. Behind the bar, Leona and Paul are serving alongside Louie, when Curtis arrives home. Curtis and Paul make eye contact, and Paul turns to Leona. “I’ll just be a minute.” Heading out the back, Paul intercepts Curtis, who is about to head upstairs. “We need to talk, son” says Paul. Curtis shakes his head. “I ain’t got the headspace, dad” Curtis begs, “I just want to go to bed.” “You’re on about putting your child up for adoption” Paul hisses, “You can’t just drop that bombshell and then disappear.” “It’s my life” Curtis reminds his father, “You don’t get a say.” “You’re 17!” “Exactly – I can’t raise a kid!” Paul scratches his head, “You’d have support.” “It’d ruin my life, dad” Curtis declares, “It’d ruin my life and Lily’s life. I want to finish college, finish my apprenticeship, get a full-time job… I don’t want to be bringing up a child.” “You should’ve thought about that before you…” Paul stops in his tracks as he realises what he is about to say. Curtis nods. “Yeah. Thanks, dad.” As Curtis disappears up the stairs, Paul smacks his hand against the wall.
Arriving home, Bev lets herself into the Harding home, and calls out to her daughter Nikki that she is back. She moves into the living room, where Nicola ‘Nikki’ Harding is fast asleep on the sofa, a bottle of wine beside her. Bev sighs, shaking her head. She moves towards her daughter, grabbing a blanket, and lays it over Nikki. “Sleep well, darling” Bev whispers, before turning out the light. Retreating up the stairs, Bev heads for bed, while Nikki snoozes on the sofa.
At the Cullen house, Charlie is laid on his bed as Mollie takes off her heels. She laughs. “What a night” she comments, shaking her head. Charlie nods. “The lads are nice” he says. “So’s that Aisha. The rest of the girls… not so much” says Mollie. “You’ll get used to them” Charlie assures her, “Now come on. I’m knackered.” Mollie slides her dress off and pulls her nightie on before climbing into bed beside Charlie. She rests her head on his chest. “Thank you for inviting me” she whispers. “Thank you for coming.” Charlie leans in and kisses Mollie’s lips softly. He looks up at the ceiling and exhales deeply. “I’m ready” Charlie whispers. Mollie tilts her head. “For what?” “For… y’know. For that.” Mollie’s eyes light up. “Are you sure?” she asks. “As sure as I’ll ever be” Charlie tells her. He pulls Mollie into a deep kiss. As the kiss becomes more passionate, Mollie slides her nightie off – and the pair begin to make love.
Regular Cast: Charlie Cullen: Billy Price Chloe Hall: Charlotte Jordan Conor Kinsella: Danny Hatchard Curtis Gordon: Jaden Ladega Damon Cullen: Matthew James-Bailey Dylan Morgan: Bleu Landau Imogen Preston: Catherine Tyldesley Jason Harding: Adam Woodward Leona Anderson: Diane Parish Louie Renshaw: Noah Valentine Matthew “Matt” Preston: David Tag Mollie Preston: Rosie Bentham Naomi Morgan: Kim Medcalf Nicola “Nikki” Harding: Alex Fletcher Paul Gordon: Robert Beck Rebecca Callaghan: Charley Webb
Recurring Cast: Aisha Khalid: Rukku Nahar Beverley “Bev” Daniels: Sue Johnston Brandon Roscoe: Mason Mount Fiona “Fi” Kinsella: Deena Payne James Garraway: Gary Lucy Martha Dobbs: Lin Blakley Nancy Cullen: Cathy Shipton
• ORIGINAL PUBLICATION: 2023.10.04
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Dec 31, 2023 15:01:35 GMT
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Dec 31, 2023 15:02:15 GMT
Wednesday 27th September 2023
Kayla Hayton shivers as she arrives at a flat in a rundown area of Coventry. She pulls her phone out of her pocket and checks the address that she has been sent by a contact called ‘Bradley’: the address matches to the flat she is at. Moving forwards, Kayla composes herself, taking out her compact mirror and checking her make-up. Once she is happy, Kayla knocks on the door of the ground floor flat. A man opens the door and smirks at her. “Kayla?” he asks. Kayla nods sheepishly. “Yeah.” “Come in… make yourself at home.” Kayla enters the flat, the man closing the door behind her.
In a similarly-framed scene, teenager Noah Harding stands outside of a large home on Newben Road. He is clutching a wrapped gift and takes a deep breath. Noah approaches the house and knocks on the door: it is soon answered by Noah’s boyfriend Zachary ‘Zack’ Richards. “Happy birthday” Noah smiles, leaning in to kiss Zack. Zack turns his face so that Noah kisses his cheek. “Come in” Zack says, ushering Noah into the house. Once the door is closed, he turns to face Noah and pulls him into an embrace. “Are your parents not home?” Noah asks. Zack shakes his head. “Just me” he smiles, taking Noah’s hand. The boys move into the living room, and Noah hands Zack his gift. “It’s nothing massive, just… just a small something.” Zack opens it and smiles at the framed photo of him and Noah. Beneath it sits a Coventry City football shirt, with ‘Richards’ on the back. “I love it” Zack gushes. He pulls Noah into a kiss.
At the Harding family’s home, Nicola ‘Nikki’ Harding is sitting on the sofa, staring at the wall. She is holding a cup of tea, but it is cold now – not that Nikki has noticed. Her mother Beverley ‘Bev’ Daniels soon joins her in the living room. “That was Amanda on the phone” Bev sighs, “She can’t make the funeral.” Nikki looks at her mother. “No surprise there” mumbles Nikki, referring to her older sister Amanda. Bev nods. “Unfair, Nicola” Bev warns. She takes a seat beside Nikki. “How about we head out for a walk? Marley could use the exercise…” “I’ll get Noah to take him when he gets home from his friend’s house” Nikki says softly. Bev shakes her head. “You could use the exercise too.” “Drop it mam” Nikki begs, “I don’t… I’m not up to it.” Standing up, Nikki places her tea down on the coffee table. She silently leaves the room, as Bev rolls her eyes, defeated.
“How are you feeling now kidda?” asks Alfred ‘Alf’ Preston as he greets his granddaughter Lily Preston in the Preston family’s home. Lily shoots him a smile. “Okay thanks grandad” Lily insists. Lily’s father, Alf’s son, Matthew ‘Matt’ Preston, stands in the doorway, watching. “She just had a bad bout of food poisoning” Matt speaks up, “But she’s on the mend now. Much better, ain’t you, Lils?” Matt urges. Lily nods. “Feeling great” she says. “Sorry I wasn’t here” Alf apologises, “I was in Spain.” Matt insists that it’s fine, “There’s nothing you could’ve done, dad. How was Spain?” “Beautiful! Everything about it is ten-times better than England” laughs Alf. Lily smiles uneasily before making her excuses to leave. Once she has gone, she sighs – fed up of her baby lie.
Curled up on the sofa together, young couple Charlie Cullen and Mollie Preston are enjoying each other’s company. Charlie runs a hand down Mollie’s leg and smirks. “My nan’s at the bingo and Damon’s with Sophia” Charlie whispers into Mollie’s ear. Tittering, Mollie looks at her boyfriend. “What are you suggesting, Mr Cullen?” she asks. Charlie kisses her neck. “I need the practice…” “I’ve got no complaints so far” flirts Mollie. The pair share a steamy kiss, and Charlie pulls his top off. The pair begin to get hot and heavy on the sofa…
Back at the Richards’ home, Noah is looking at family photos on the mantelpiece. He smiles at a photo of Zack with his mother, Melissa, and his father, Thomas. Zack soon joins him with two beers. “Christmas holiday to the Alps” sighs Zack as he points at the photo Noah is looking at, “Dad was proper into it… Mum hated it.” “Sounds standard. I remember my first holiday abroad. We went to Almeria. Dad wanted to explore, but mum… she just wanted to sit by the pool. I must’ve been about 9.” Zack hands Noah a beer. “I know you’re underage and I’m technically of age now, but… one beer won’t hurt” Zack laughs with a wink. Noah takes a swig. “Cheers” he says. He then looks at a picture of Zack and a girl, who appears to be a few years older. “You have a sister?” he asks. Zack nods. “Ella. She’s at uni in Brighton. I rarely see her nowadays” Zack sighs, “She and dad… they don’t really get on. My dad’s a difficult guy, he ain’t like yours.” Noah is overcome with emotions at the mention of his father: it still hurts. Zack notices his demeanour change and sighs. “I’m sorry” he says, taking Noah’s hand, “I just… I’m glad you had such a good dad.” “He was the best” Noah whispers.
In the bathroom of a dingy flat, Kayla stares at her reflection in the mirror. She fights back tears, feeling sick at the sight of herself. Running her hand through her hair, Kayla takes a deep breath before exiting the bathroom and heading back into the bedroom. The man she slept with just moments before is laid in bed, shirtless. He looks at her. “That was unreal” he compliments. Kayla nods. “I’m good at what I do” she whispers, her stomach turning more with every second she spends in this cesspit. The man pulls his wallet out and places a £20 note into her hands. “Call it a tip” he smiles. As he puts his wallet away, Kayla notices him pull a bag of cocaine out. “Is that…?” Kayla trails off. The guy looks at her and smirks. “You fancy some?” he asks. Kayla stares at him for a moment before shaking her head. “No, thanks” she insists, “I’m not that type of girl.” Grabbing her bag, Kayla smiles. “I’ll see you later.” Scurrying out of the flat, Kayla slams the door shut behind her – desperate to escape. She begins to walk down the street, her skin crawling as her mind flashes back to what she has just done, the man’s hands all over her as they had sex. Kayla feels tears run down her cheeks, but she doesn’t stop, desperate to get away. Once she is a few streets away, she leans against the wall and begins to sob. She pulls her phone out and dials a number. “Hello? It’s me, it’s Kayla. I can’t do this anymore. I can’t keep putting myself through this. I want out…”
Leaving a swanky restaurant in town, couple Damon Cullen and Sophia Morgan have a huge smile on their faces. “That was amazing” Sophia compliments as she hangs off Damon’s arm. Damon leans in and kisses her forehead. “You deserve only the best” he says smoothly. Sophia pulls her phone out and begins to book an Uber, but Damon puts his hand on hers. “I actually thought we could walk” says Damon, “Call it a romantic stroll?” “It’s quite far, Damo” laughs Sophia, but Damon shrugs his shoulders. “It’s a nice night.” Looking into Damon’s eyes, Sophia nods. “Sure.”
“The wanderer returns!” laughs retired handyman Gareth Murphy as his best mate Alf joins him in The Rose and Crown. He pulls Alf into a hug. “I’ve been gone for a week and a half, Gaz, not six months!” Alf chuckles. Gareth’s fiancée Martha Dobbs smiles at Alf. “Good trip, Alf?” she asks. Alf nods. “Fantastic. Sad to be home!” “We heard about young Lily ending up in hospital” Gareth says softly, “Is she alright?” “I’ve been meaning to reach out to Matt and Imogen, but haven’t gotten round to it” Martha adds. “She’s perfectly fine” Alf assures them, “Just a bad case of food poisoning.” Martha raises an eyebrow, not convinced, but says nothing. “I had an awful bug a few weeks ago” Gareth sighs. As he recounts his misfortune to Alf, Martha moves towards the bar, greeting her great-niece Kelsey Gordon, who is behind the bar. “How are you finding it, being back?” Martha asks. Kelsey sighs. “Fab, but… upstairs is a mad house!” Kelsey quips. Martha chuckles. “That bad?” “Between Curtis’ teenage boy strops, mum’s stressing, dad trying to hold everything together and Aaron being Aaron… yeah, it’s difficult!” laughs Kelsey. “Well, you know there’s always a room at ours if you need it” Martha assures her niece. “Cheers auntie Martha” smiles Kelsey.
Entering the pub, Mollie has a spring in her step as she joins friends Kaiyen Chadha and Sakina Gulati. “Evening gang” Mollie exclaims, taking a seat. Sakina smiles at her. “Someone’s in a good mood!” she notes. Mollie shrugs, “Let’s just say that me and Charlie are in a very good place right now.” Sakina arches an eyebrow. “Oh yeah? Have you two finally…?” Sakina trails off as she notices Mollie’s revealing smirk, “Oh my God, you have!” Mollie swears Sakina to silence before looking at Kaiyen. “What’s wrong Kai?” “You’ve not been answering my Snaps, Mols” Kaiyen presses his lips. “Sorry, I’ve had a lot on” Mollie sighs, “I meant to open them. Is everything alright?” “Me and the boys have moved into a house, down the road” Sakina reveals, “It’s a six-bedroom, rent’s fair. Bit steep for just the three of us though. Louie’s got his mate from Fresher’s joining us a few weeks into term, but even between the four of us… we’re gonna struggle!” “Don’t s’pose you fancy taking up a room?” Kaiyen asks. Mollie looks taken aback by the sudden proposition.
“How’s mum doing?” asks Jason Harding as he and his partner, secretly his fiancée, Chelsea Bryant arriving at the Harding home. His grandmother Bev sighs. “Not great. She’s really struggling. Hopefully seeing you two and the boys will help” Bev says, glancing at her great grandson Theodore ‘Theo’ Harding, who is hanging off his mother’s arm. Jason smiles, gently rocking the pushchair of his newborn son Beau Harding. “Nikki” Bev calls out softly, but there is no response. Bev is about to head up the stairs but Jason places a hand on her shoulder. “I’ll go” he assures his nan, before trekking up the stairs. He moves towards Nikki and Dave’s marital bedroom and opens it, to find the room a mess – the curtains are drawn, and something tells Jason that they haven’t been opened since Dave died. Nikki is lying in bed, buried under her duvet. “Mum?” Jason whispers, gently sitting on the bed next to Nikki. Nikki turns to face him. “I can’t do it, Jase” Nikki tells her son. Jason nods. “I know mum” he whispers, rubbing her back reassuringly, “But Theo and Beau are here… they want to see their nan.” “I can’t look at them.” Nikki takes a deep breath, “Every time I look at them, I see Dave.” “Mum…” “I can’t carry on without him, Jase” sobs Nikki, tears streaming down her face. Jason pulls his mother into his arms, “I don’t want to carry on without him…” Damon and Sophia stroll down a street together, on their way back to Sophia’s flat. As they approach a junction, Sophia spots Kayla coming from a different direction. “Hey Kayla!” calls out Sophia, waving at Kayla. Kayla awkwardly lifts up her hand and gives Sophia a small wave. “Are you heading home?” Sophia asks as her path crosses with Kayla’s. Damon looks uncomfortable as Kayla confirms that she is. “Us too… fancy walking with us?” Sophia offers, “It’s dark.” Kayla looks at Damon. “Are you sure you don’t mind?” she asks. Sophia confirms that she doesn’t, before looking expectantly at Damon. Exasperated, Damon shrugs his shoulders. “Sure” he says through gritted teeth.
Back at the Richards’, Zack and Noah are chilling in Zack’s room. Noah groans as another rap song plays. “Can we not have some Taylor?” pouts Noah. Zack rolls his eyes. “You’re such a girl!” he teases. Playfully smacking Zack’s arm, Noah declares that he is not. “I just appreciate good music!” “Let me guess, you’ve already got tickets to the Eras tour?” “The fact you know what it’s called says a lot, Zacky” teases Noah. “It’s all over my TikTok!” Zack argues. He then rests his head on Noah’s legs. “I really like you, No” Zack admits. Noah smiles, playing with Zack’s hair. “I like you too.” “Yeah?” “Yeah.” Zack stares into Noah’s eyes and soon, the boys are kissing.
As they make out, a door slams shut downstairs, and Zack nearly jumps out of his skin. “My mum and dad” a paling Zack whispers. Footsteps approach up the stairs, and Zack’s mother Melissa Richards enters the room. “Oh, hello” she says as she spots Noah, who waves at her meekly. “This is Noah, mum. He’s a mate from college.” “Evening, Noah. Sorry, I didn’t realise we had company… I’ve brought Thai food home.” “That’s okay, I’ll head home” Noah says, standing up. Zack reaches out and grabs his hand. “No, stay” Zack whispers. Noah and Zack make eye contact, before Noah glances down at the connection between their hands: but it is already too late, as Melissa has clocked it. She smiles. “I’ll set an extra place” she says, “I’m sure there’s enough food.” As Melissa scurries out of the room, Zack pulls Noah towards him. “I don’t want to hide anymore” he whispers, and the boys kiss again.
In the pub, Kaiyen, Mollie and Sakina are discussing the possibility of Mollie moving in with the students. “It’s quite sudden, Kai” Mollie admits, clearly unsure, “I’m happy at home.” “Think of what you and Charlie can get up to if you didn’t live with your parents and sisters” teases Sakina. Mollie exhales. “I’m not sure, guys, I’m sorry…” A deflated Kaiyen nods. “That’s okay.” “What’s this?” asks a passing Kelsey as she collects glasses. Kaiyen looks at Kelsey and smiles. “Guys, this is Kelsey… my best friend” Mollie introduces. Kaiyen extends his hand for Kelsey to shake. “I’m Kaiyen. This is Sakina. We go to uni with Mollie.” “And me, soon! I was studying in London but I’ve transferred for second year” Kelsey says. “Cute” Sakina smiles, “What do you study?” “Nursing. You?” “Journalism” Sakina reveals. Mollie then smiles. “Don’t s’pose you know anybody who needs a place to stay do you, Kels?” Mollie asks, not expecting her to, given she has been back for five minutes. Kelsey’s lips twist into a grin. “As it happens, I might…”
At the Harding family home, Nikki is sat in silence as her mother Bev gushes over her great-grandson, Beau. “He’s gorgeous” Bev whispers as she cradles the baby in her arms. Jason’s partner Chelsea nods. “He’s been good as gold, too. Sleeps right through, hardly any hassle. Model baby, really!” “He already seems massive compared to when we last saw him, doesn’t he, Nik?” Bev says, looking up at her absent-minded daughter. Nikki doesn’t register what she is saying. “Mum?” Jason says gently, placing a hand on Nikki’s knee. Nikki looks him in the eye. “Sorry?” she whispers meekly. “Would you like to hold him?” Bev offers. Nikki glances over at her grandson and shakes her head. “I’m okay thanks” she says. “Come on, Nicola…” – “I said I’m fine!” snaps Nikki. She stands up and shakes her head. “Stop pushing me to do things I ain’t ready to do!” With that, Nikki leaves the room, as Jason, Bev and Chelsea look between each other.
Arriving on the high street, Kayla breathes a sigh of relief as she sees her flat above Vibes coffee shop. “This is my stop” she says. “It was nice chatting to you” Sophia says, pulling Kayla into a hug. Taken aback by Sophia’s forwardness, Kayla nods. “Thanks” she mutters. She and Damon exchange glances: Damon just shakes his head and soon, Kayla has retreated up the stairs. “That was nice” smiles Sophia, linking arms with Damon, who simply nods. “Yeah. Look, you head up… I fancy a cigarette.” Sophia pouts, “You were doing so well, not smoking since France.” “It’s a nice night… I want to savour it” Damon insists. He pecks Sophia’s lips. “If you really want to say thanks for dinner, go upstairs and get changed into something sexy” Damon purrs. A smirk on her face, Sophia heads into the flat above the salon. Sighing, Damon walks down the street, towards an alleyway. He turns into it where a hooded figure is standing, waiting.
“I really dislike it when you ignore my calls” huffs Logan Bradley as he moves towards Damon. Damon nods. “I’m sorry, I…” Logan grabs Damon by the collar of his jacket and slams him against the wall. “But I dislike it even more when the people that work for me can’t do their jobs properly.” “If this is about the drugs, all my runners have…” – “It’s not about the drugs” insists Logan, “It’s about the whore.” Damon’s eyes bulge. “Kayla? What’s she got to do with this?” “I got a call earlier. She reckons she’s out. Reckons she’s not doing her job anymore.” “I’ll have a word…” “A word?” laughs Logan, “What’s that going to do? She needs sorting out, Damon. Either you do it, or I will.” Logan pats Damon’s cheek mockingly before releasing his grip on him. Damon nods his head. “I’m sorry” he apologises. “You’ll be sorry if you don’t sort this” Logan warns, before walking out of the alleyway, leaving Damon reeling.
Arriving back at Number 3 Oakford Avenue, students Kaiyen and Sakina are excitedly chatting as they discuss the fact that Kelsey Gordon has shown interest in becoming their housemate. As Kaiyen declares that things are on the up, Sakina says that she cannot wait to tell Louie. The pair open the door and enter the house, where they find a shirtless Louie Renshaw in the kitchen. “Evening” greets Louie with a wink as he drinks some orange juice. “We have news” Kaiyen says happily. Sakina takes a seat at the breakfast bar. “We may have found a new housemate” Sakina blurts out. Louie’s ears prick up. “Yeah? Who?” “Mollie’s best friend. Her name’s Kelsey. She’s lovely, her family own the pub. Really chatty, really pretty” Kaiyen says. Sakina nudges Louie. “Our Kai’s got a bit of a crush” she teases. Kaiyen feels his cheeks flush red. “I don’t” he promises. He then sighs. “Right, I’m going for a shower.” “Make sure it’s a cold one” Louie calls as Kaiyen leaves. Once he has gone, Louie and Sakina burst out laughing.
At the Richards’ home, Noah is awkwardly sitting amidst a Richards family meal. Melissa quietly tucks into her Thai food as her husband Thomas Richards, a solicitor, talks with his son Zack about his day at work. Thomas turns his attentions to Noah. “So, what do you do, Noah?” asks Thomas. “I go to college with Zack, and then at weekends and in the evenings, I work in a coffee shop” Noah reveals. “I’ve been trying to convince Zachary to get a part-time job for months” Thomas admits, “But now he’s 18, he can start coming to work with me.” “I’m not so sure that’s a good idea, Tom” Melissa speaks up. Thomas hushes her. “You’ll love it, won’t you, Zachary?” “Yeah, sure” Zack smiles, not wanting to disappoint his dad. Noah glances at Melissa, who looks away quickly, refusing to make eye contact. “So, how long have you two been friends for?” Thomas asks. Zack looks at Noah. “Erm… about a year” Noah says.
“Actually, there’s something I’d like you to know” Zack says, standing up, “I, er… I’m not sure how to say this. I don’t really think it needs to be a big deal.” Melissa’s eyes widen. “Zacky, don’t” she begs. Zack continues, “Me and Noah… well he’s not just my friend. He’s amazing, he’s perfect, and I really like him, so I think it’s only fair that I tell you… he’s my boyfriend.” Noah feels his heart flutter, but the reactions of Thomas and Melissa leave a lot to be desired, as they remain silent. Eventually, Thomas speaks. “So you’re gay?” he asks. Zack shakes his head. “I’m bi” he reveals, “That means I like both guys and…” Getting up, Thomas leaves the room. Zack looks at his mother, desperate for her to say something, but she just looks away, her eyes closed. Deflated, Zack takes a seat – Noah reaches out for his hand, but Zack pulls it away.
Making her way out into the back garden of the Hardings’ home, Chelsea finds Nikki standing, staring into space, her hands quivering as she slowly smokes a cigarette. Chelsea frowns. “I didn’t know you smoked, Nikki” Chelsea said gently. Nikki brought the cigarette to her lips. “It’s my first one in 18 years” Nikki admits, “I quit the day I found out I was pregnant with Noah.” “That’s a long time” says Chelsea, “It’s a shame you’re throwing the towel in.” “I need something to take the edge off” whispers Nikki, “It’s this or heroin(!)” Chelsea is taken aback by Nikki’s comment, though she soon realises it was sarcasm. Nikki takes a drag of the cigarette and ends up spluttering. “Put it out, Nik” Chelsea urges. She moves towards Nikki and rubs her arm reassuringly. Overcome with anger, Nikki throws the cigarette to the floor and stamps on it. She lets out a frustrated scream and collapses into Chelsea’s arms. “It’s okay” Chelsea assures her mother-in-law as she holds her, letting her release her emotions in the form of tears and anguished screams.
“Well that went down like a lead balloon” Zack sighs as he and Noah walk around his neighbourhood. Noah shakes his head. “Give them time” Noah insists, “They’ll come round.” “They couldn’t even look at me!” Zack argues, “My dad stormed out!” He softens, “I expected it from my dad, but my mum… she looked ashamed. She begged me not to do it. I should’ve listened.” “You can’t help being who you are” Noah says, taking Zack’s hand, “And you shouldn’t apologise for it.” He rubs Zack’s cheek affectionately. “Did you mean what you said?” Noah asks, “You like me?” “I do” Zack confirms. Noah takes a deep breath. “Things is, I don’t like you, Zachary” he says gently, “I think I love you.”
Kayla stands under the hot water of her shower, scrubbing her skin to within an inch of its life. Her eyes are stained with mascara that has leaked from her crying, and her skin is red from the vigorous cleaning Kayla has performed. Soon, Kayla turns the water off, and climbs out, wrapping a towel around her waist. She wipes the condensation from the bathroom mirror and stares at herself in the mirror. “Beautiful” says a voice, and Kayla turns to see Damon standing there ominously. She pulls the towel up. “It’s nothing I haven’t seen before” Damon says as he takes a step towards Kayla. “You’d have to pay to see it again” Kayla snarls. “I thought you’d thrown the towel in?” teases Damon. Kayla nods. “I have. I’m out.” “See, that’d be a big mistake” Damon warns, “Because not only would you be upsetting me… you’d be upsetting my bosses.” “I ain’t scared of Logan” Kayla vows. “You should be.” There is a hint of fear in Damon’s voice, “You don’t understand what he’s capable of.” “He’s not going to do anything to me…”
Damon swoops in and grips Kayla’s wrist, lifting it up. “No, but I might” he snarls, “You don’t get to call the shots here, Kayla.” Kayla winces as Damon digs his thumb into her wrist, “You’re not in control. You have no control over any of it. You’re just a piece of meat, a vessel. You do as I say, when I say it. If I tell you to jump, you ask ‘how high?’. If I tell you to sleep with someone, you sleep with them. Got it?” “Got it” hisses Kayla. Damon releases his grip as Kayla stumbles backwards, clutching her throbbing arm. Her towel drops to the floor. “You’re damaged goods” Damon snarls, “I wouldn’t pay for you. You couldn’t pay me.” With that, Damon leaves, as Kayla begins to sob, sliding down the wall and looking at her wrist, deep bruises already beginning to form.
Regular Cast: Charlie Cullen: Billy Price Chelsea Bryant: Jessica Plummer Damon Cullen: Matthew James-Bailey Jason Harding: Adam Woodward Kayla Hayton: Georgia-May Foote Kelsey Gordon: Yasmin Finney Lily Preston: Ellie Dadd Louie Renshaw: Noah Valentine Matthew “Matt” Preston: David Tag Mollie Preston: Rosie Bentham Nicola “Nikki” Harding: Alex Fletcher Noah Harding: Charlie Behan Sophia Morgan: Tilly Keeper
Recurring Cast: Alfred “Alf” Preston: Larry Lamb Beau Harding: Uncredited Beverley “Bev” Daniels: Sue Johnston Gareth Murphy: John McArdle Logan Bradley: Benjamin O’Mahony Martha Dobbs: Lin Blakley Melissa Richards: Ali Bastian Theodore “Theo” Harding: Uncredited Thomas Richards: Richard Winsor Zachary “Zack” Richards: Sam Hall
• ORIGINAL PUBLICATION: 2023.10.12
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Dec 31, 2023 15:02:35 GMT
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Dec 31, 2023 15:02:59 GMT
Saturday 30th September 2023
It is the day before the funeral of shopkeeper Dave Harding, and standing in her home, Nicola ‘Nikki’ Harding stares at the black outfit hanging up on her wardrobe door. She feels her eyes well with tears and her hand begin to shake as she thinks back to the night that she was told that her husband of 24 years had died. “What…?” “I’m afraid to say that we did all we could, the ambulance team got there as soon as they could, but… but it wasn’t enough. Your husband died earlier this evening, Mrs Harding.” Letting out an anguished half-scream, half-gasp, Nikki clasped her hands around her mouth. “No” she sobbed, shaking her head, “No, you’ve got it wrong.” “I’m really sorry, Mrs Harding…” “No… no!” Nikki’s attention is grabbed by the presence of somebody behind her, and she turns to see her 17-year-old son Noah Harding standing in the doorway. “Mum?” Noah whispers, edging further into the bedroom.
Nikki wipes her wet eyes and slaps on a smile. “Everything okay?” Noah asks. Nikki tells Noah that she’s fine. “Just getting a bit emotional.” “Tomorrow’s a big day” Noah says. He moves towards Nikki and takes her hand. “But we’ll get through it… together.” Nikki feels tears streaming down her face again. “When did you become so mature?” she asks with a laugh, and Noah shrugs. “It just happened overnight.” Downstairs, Nikki’s mother Beverley ‘Bev’ Daniels is feeding the family’s pet Labrador, Marley. “Enjoy, boy” Bev says, putting the food bowl down before straightening her back and sighing. She looks over at a bouquet of flowers in a vase on the dining room table and wipes a stray tear from her cheek.
Standing in his bedroom, teenager Dylan Morgan is looking in the mirror. He has just attempted to shave, sighing at the shaver’s rash he has on his throat. Picking up a bottle of expensive aftershave, Dylan sprays it over him, before peering at the bottle, having stolen it from his father, Rob. His bedroom door opens, and Dylan’s twin sister Amber Morgan sticks her head in. “Who are you getting all spruced up for?” Amber asks with a raised eyebrow. Dylan tuts. “Get out, Amber” he orders. Amber does the opposite, stepping into the bedroom and closing the door behind her. “Come on, tell me” Amber pushes, “Is it a girl?” “Ambs…” “It is, isn’t it!” gasps Amber, “Oh my God, has little Dylan got himself a date?” “We ain’t 12 anymore” Dylan pouts at the use of Amber’s baby voice. Amber rolls her eyes. “Just tell me who it is, Dyl. Do I know her?” “No!” Dylan moves towards Amber and guides her out of his bedroom, “Now piss off!” He slams his bedroom door shut, leaving Amber locked out. She leans against the door and smirks. “Someone’s a little sore” teases Amber, before she rushes down the stairs.
At the Richards family home, No.63 Newben Road, 18 y/o Zachary ‘Zack’ Richards is sitting in silence at the dinner table, alone. As he slowly eats his food, he is joined by his mother, Melissa Richards. Melissa says nothing, practically looking past him. “How long are you going to keep this up?” Zack asks with a huff, shaking his head, “You can’t ignore me forever just cos I’m into blokes.” “That’s what you think this is?” asks an annoyed Melissa. Zack shrugs. “If it isn’t, please enlighten me on what the problem actually is…” Melissa goes to say something, but stops herself, clenching her fists. “I’m going upstairs” she says, “I’ve got marking to do.” “Mum!” Zack stands up and moves towards Melissa, “It’s been days. You can’t just keep putting off this conversation…” “There is no conversation, Zachary!” snaps Melissa, “You didn’t involve us in any conversation before you decided to…” “Decided to what?” Zack asks, “Decided to fall in love with a boy?” “You don’t know what love is” Melissa promises, “You’re too young.” “You were my age when you met dad” Zack says. Melissa nods. “And look where that got me” she whispers, before disappearing up the stairs.
“You look awful, Kayla” comments Fiona ‘Fi’ Kinsella as she and Kayla Hayton cross paths in Drive Buy Supermarket. Kayla scoffs. “Cheers, Fi(!)” Kayla frowns, “You sure know how to build a girl up!” “I’m just expressing my concern” Fi insists, “Are you eating?” Kayla sighs. “I’m fine” she promises, “I’ve just had a bad bug recently.” As Kayla pays shop assistant Kacey for her shopping, she feels her hands quivering – which doesn’t go unnoticed by Fi. “How about we head upstairs, I’ll flick the kettle on?” Fi offers. Looking Fi in the eye, Kayla shakes her head. “It’s really not necessary, Fi” she whispers. Fi takes her hand. “I insist” she says.
“Right, Marley’s all fed, dinner’s in the oven for us, and everything is sorted for tomorrow” says Bev as her daughter Nikki joins her in the living room of the Harding family home. Nikki just nods solemnly. “It doesn’t feel real” she whispers. Bev takes her hand. “I know, love.” Nikki feels her world crumble as she looks at a picture of her and Dave on their wedding day just over 24 years ago. “I just want him back, mum” tears Nikki. “Oh darling.” Bev pulls Nikki into a tight hug, “I’m so sorry I can’t make this better.” As Nikki cries in Bev’s arms, Noah listens in from the stairs.
“Are you sure you’ll be okay?” Naomi Morgan asks as she and her daughter Amber prepare to head out for the evening. Dylan nods. “Absolutely. I’m 17, I’m a big boy” Dylan vows. Amber sniggers, earning herself a glare from Dylan. “Okay. Call me if you need anything – anything at all.” She kisses Dylan’s forehead, earning herself a groan from a complaining Dylan. “Come on, mum – we’re cramping his style!” teases Amber as she and Naomi leave the house. Once she has gone, Dylan grabs his phone and quickly types a text to ‘Esme’. “Coast’s clear – give it 5 minutes and you can come in 😉”. Once he has pressed send, a proud Dylan smirks to himself.
The Rose and Crown pub is quiet as friends Sophia Morgan and Elyse Anderson sit together, enjoying a quiet drink. Sophia shakes her head with a tut as Elyse informs her that she is still yet to contact handsome PE teacher Caleb Brennan. “He’s literally the perfect man!” Sophia complains, “Hot, handsome, good career… did I mention he’s hot?” “We barely know him, Soph” Elyse pouts, “He could be a psycho for all we know!” “We all love a bad boy, Elyse” Sophia teases. Elyse rolls her eyes, before the girls are approached by Chloe Hall. “Room for a little one?” Chloe asks. Sophia smiles. “Course! We were just discussing how Elyse is a fool for not contacting that hunky PE teacher she met at the speed dating night.” “You’ve still not messaged him!?” Chloe exclaims.
Elyse shrugs her shoulders. “I don’t know if I’m feeling it.” “Well what’s the alternative, Elyse, cos I took that dishy nurse for a test drive and let me tell you… I hope his bedside manner is better than his technique in the bedroom!” Sophia cackles at Chloe’s words. “See, El… even Chloe is Team Caleb.” “This isn’t a Twilight fan forum” Elyse says, “Besides, he probably won’t even respond. I’m hardly the biggest catch, and he could have his pick of the girls.” “You’re gorgeous, Elyse!” Chloe argues, “And a really nice person, from what I’ve seen.” “When you want to be” Sophia adds, “But you’re also exciting. You never know if you’re going to get an Elyse that’s sunshine and rainbows, or an Elyse who will rip your hair extensions out for looking at her funny.” “This is possibly the world’s worst pep talk” Elyse laughs, “But it’s weirdly cute. Carry on.”
“Here you go, pet” Fi smiles as she places a cup of tea down in front of Kayla. She looks around the bare kitchen of Kayla’s flat and sighs. “Looks like you need to do a big shop” titters Fi. Kayla just nods. “It’s the least of my priorities right now, Fi” sighs Kayla. Sensing something much deeper is the matter, Fi takes a seat beside the young woman. “Do you need somebody to talk to?” Fi asks. With a shrug, Kayla insists it is nothing. “Where are your family, Kayla?” enquires Fi. Kayla feels her body tense. “I don’t know” she admits honestly, “I haven’t heard from them for 15 years.” Fi’s jaw drops. “How can you have gone 15 years with no contact?” she asks. Kayla looks over at the mantelpiece, at a picture of 16-year-old Kayla cradling a newborn Leah.
“They cut me out the minute they found out I was pregnant” she whispers, “They didn’t like the idea of a pregnant 15 year old.” “Nobody does, Kay, but you don’t abandon your teenage daughter because of it” Fi says, her voice filled with emotion. Kayla wipes a tear from her eye. “They did. Would much rather pretend I didn’t exist than support me. I ended up in care at first, but nobody wanted the responsibility of me. I turned 16 just before Leah was born, and then I was out of the system, given a flat by social services and forced to bring Leah up alone. I’ve been doing it on my own ever since.” “You’re a strong woman, Kayla” Fi says, squeezing Kayla’s hand, “I don’t think anybody tells you that enough.” Kayla looks into Fi’s kind eyes and smiles. “Thank you, Fi” she whispers.
“Nice place” smirks teenager Esme Summers as she joins Dylan in the kitchen of his home, having been let in through the back door. Dylan nods, watching as Esme looks around. “It’s not the worst gaff” he says proudly. He moves towards Esme and pulls her close to him, kissing her softly. “My brother would kill you if he found out what we were doing” Esme whispers. Dylan shrugs. “Better pray he doesn’t find out then” he smirks, unbuttoning his shirt and throwing it to the floor.
Zack is still sulking in the living room of his house when the front door slams shut, and his solicitor father Thomas Richards enters. Thomas’ face darkens as he sees Zack. “Dad, can we talk?” Zack begs, moving towards his father. Thomas turns away from him. “I’m not in the mood, Zack” Thomas says, moving towards his alcohol cabinet and pouring himself a large brandy. He takes a sip and exhales. “This is ridiculous!” Zack snaps, smacking his hand down on the dining room table. Thomas spins around and looks at him. “You’re acting like I’ve killed someone when in actuality, all I’ve done is show you the real me.” “You’ve lied to us, Zachary” Thomas snaps, shaking his head with disgust, “You’ve led us to believe you’re this amazing, doting son when actually you’ve been living a lie the whole time.” “And now I’m finally being honest, you and mum can barely look at me!” “Because nobody wants a queer for a son!” Thomas snarls. Taken aback, Zack shakes his head. “What did you say?” he asks, his fists clenched. Thomas runs his hand through his hair. “You’re our boy, Zack. Our son. And you’ve let us down.”
“Where is this coming from?” Zack asks, “You’re not religious, and you’ve never shown any sign of being homophobic… I don’t understand.” “Get out” Thomas says darkly. Zack’s face falls. “What?” he stammers. “I said, GET OUT!” Thomas launches his glass at the wall, shards of glass spraying everywhere as Zack ducks for cover. He stands up, a gash across his cheek from where shards of glass have hit him. “Dad…” Zack whispers, but Thomas grips him by the arm and drags him towards the door. Begging for his dad to stop, Zack looks up the stairs and sees a silent Melissa standing there in stunned silence. “Mum, tell him!” Zack begs, but Melissa simply closes her eyes and turns away, disappearing up the stairs. Zack feels his heart pound as he struggles with Thomas on the doorstep, fighting against him. Eventually, Thomas overpowers his son and throws him to the floor. “You’re dead to me” Thomas spits as he waves his finger at his son. As Thomas slams the front door shut, Zack pushes himself to his feet, tears gushing down his cheeks. “Well that was fun” smirks Esme as she gets dressed after her romp with Dylan. She pulls her phone out and snaps a quick photo as Dylan begins to pull his clothes on. He nods. “Wasn’t too bad.” His lips twist into a satisfied grin. “So, we doing it again?” he asks. Esme shrugs her shoulders, “Can do. Nothing serious, though… it’d take a lot to tie me down.” Dylan laughs at Esme’s words.
“Are you okay?” Sophia asks as she and Chloe stand at the bar in the Crown. Having noticed Chloe looking disturbed and slightly restless, Sophia is concerned, but Chloe brushes off her concerns. “I’m fine… just knackered. Long day” Chloe sighs, “And I ain’t sleeping properly. I’ve been on auntie Fi’s sofa for weeks now, it’s playing havoc on my back.” “You need to find somewhere permanent” Sophia tells her. “I was looking at an apartment in the block on the corner, but it’s fallen through. So looks like I’m back to square one.” As Chloe sighs deeply, Sophia is left with a thought.
Over dinner, the Harding family are silent. Bev looks over at Nikki, who has barely touched her food: she has hardly eaten since Dave’s death. With a sigh, Bev picks up her drink. “Not enjoying it, Nicola?” Bev asks. Nikki snaps out of her daydream. “Sorry? Oh, um… no, it’s lovely. I’m just not very hungry.” “Maybe you should take one of your sleeping tablets tonight, get a good night’s sleep” Bev suggests. Nikki nods in agreement. She puts her knife and fork down and turns to face Noah. “I got a call from the funeral parlour earlier… tonight’s our last chance to go and see your dad. They close at 8, so I was thinking… would you like to come and say goodbye?” Noah’s face drops – Bev notices and shakes her head. “You don’t have to, Noah” she urges her grandson.
Noah looks at Nikki’s hopeful eyes and sighs. “I, er… I kinda want to keep my memories of dad intact. I don’t want anything to ruin them. I can come with you, but I’d rather wait outside.” Nikki turns away from her son. “That’s fine” she whispers, “I just thought I’d offer.” “How about I come with you, Nik?” Bev speaks up. Nikki nods. “I’d like that” she says. The doorbell then rings, and Bev stands up. “I’ll get it.” She leaves the room, and a few moments later, returns, with a sheepish Zack trailing behind. “Noah, it’s for you” Bev says. Noah stands up and frowns as he sees a tearful Zack standing there. “Zack? What happened to your face?” he whispers. Rushing towards Zack, Noah pulls him into a tight hug as Zack begins to cry.
Letting Fi out of her flat, Kayla thanks her once again for the cuppa and the chat. “I really appreciate it, Fi.” “I’m always here if you need a talk” Fi promises, “Or even a babysitter. I know what it’s like, raising kids on your own. Sometimes you just need a night off.” A smile on her face, Kayla whispers “thank you”, before watching as Fi begins to head home. She sighs, closing the door, but as she is heading back up the stairs, there is a loud pounding on the door. Her heart beating rapidly, Kayla moves towards the door and cautiously opens it: drug dealer Logan Bradley stands on the doorstep, a devious smirk on his face. “Aren’t you going to invite me in?” he asks.
Alone now that Esme has headed home, Dylan is chilling on the sofa, pleased with himself. He is unable to contain the big grin that he has on his face. The front door opens, and Dylan’s dad Rob Morgan enters. “Alright kidda?” Rob asks, ruffling his son’s styled hair. Dylan tuts. “Piss off dad!” he laughs, “How was work?” “Alright! I’ve left Becca looking after the place, I reckon she can manage. Here, you’ll be 18 soon… how about you give up that job at the shop and come work for me?” “When I’m 18, I’ll be spending every Friday and Saturday night in town, not working behind a bar” Dylan vows, “Sorry, but no thanks.” “Suit yourself. Thought you’d want to take after your old man.” Rob takes a seat on the opposite sofa. “So, you had a good night?” “Yeah, was alright” Dylan says, omitting details as he tells Rob that he just spent the night watching ‘Formula 1: Drive to Survive’.
Back at the pub, Chloe is in the bathroom as Elyse and Sophia sit chatting. “I’ve been thinking…” Sophia begins. Elyse arches an eyebrow. “Here we go” she mutters, earning herself a playful slap on the arm from Sophia. “Apparently it’s pretty cramped at the Kinsellas, and Chloe’s flat has fallen through. I know we don’t need any help with the rent, but… well, we’ve got a spare room. So why not offer it to Chloe?” Sophia suggests. Elyse looks taken aback. “You want a third flatmate?” she asks. Sophia shrugs. “It’d help her out, and we both get on well with Chloe – she’s a laugh.” Elyse nods. “Alright then. Sure.” “Yeah? I didn’t think you’d agree so quickly!” laughs Sophia. Elyse tells Sophia that it’d be nice to have someone to talk to when Sophia is all loved up with boyfriend Damon. Chloe then rejoins the pair. “Sorry, nature called” giggles Chloe, taking a seat. Elyse looks her in the eye. “Sophia was just telling me about your housing issues” she says. “Yeah, it’s a mess. Still, I’ll find somewhere.” “I know it’s not some swanky apartment, but… we’ve got a spare room in our flat” Sophia says, “Fancy being our flatmate?” Chloe is taken aback, “Really? Are you sure?” “Course! It’ll be nice to get to know you more” Sophia says. Elyse nods in agreement. A smile on her face, Chloe pulls Elyse and Sophia into a hug. “Thank you so much!” she gasps.
“Zack, what’s happened?” Noah asks as he and Zack take a seat on the sofa. “Dad’s kicked me out” whispers Zack, shaking his head, “I never thought he’d react like this. They’ve barely said two words to me and now they’ve thrown me out.” Nikki appears in the doorway. “Is everything okay?” she asks. Noah looks at Nikki. “Mum… this is my boyfriend, Zack” he says. Nikki nods. “I gathered” she whispers, “I’m happy for you, Noah.” Noah forces a smile. “Thanks, mum, but…” Noah looks at Zack, “His parents haven’t taken it well. They’ve thrown him out. I don’t s’pose he can stay here for a few weeks?” Nikki is taken aback, but eventually she nods. “Course. I wouldn’t see a teenage boy out on the streets.” With that, Nikki re-enters the kitchen, as Noah turns back to Zack. “It’s not home, and we’re still grieving, but… you can stay here for as long as you need.” Zack pulls Noah into a passionate kiss.
“Why have you been ignoring my calls and texts?” Kayla asks as Logan looks around her flat. He turns to face her, his brown eyes focused on her lips. “I’ve been busy” he says, “I’m sorry.” Moving towards Kayla, Logan brushes a strand of hair from her face and tucks it behind her ear. “But I’m here now…” Kayla exhales as she feels Logan’s warm breath on her face. Leaning forward, Logan kisses her lips softly. He pulls away, a smirk on his face. “I’ve got a bit of work for you tomorrow” he says, “He’s a nice guy. An old friend of mine. Name’s Adam. He’ll look after you.” Kayla nods. “Where am I going?” she asks. Logan titters. “He’s coming here” he admits. Kayla’s eyes widen. “He can’t” she frets, “Leah’ll be home.” “You’ll have to get rid of her” Logan tells her, “It won’t be until 5, so you’ve got plenty of time to ship her off. Send her out for her tea or something.” “With what money, Logan?” Kayla asks, “Please, tell him to meet me somewhere else.”
“He’s not willing to pay for a hotel” Logan informs her, “Why shell out for one when there’s a perfectly good bedroom here? Look…” Logan pulls £50 out of his wallet and hands it to Kayla, “Send Leah to the chippy or something, okay? Tell her to treat herself and a friend.” Nodding, Kayla thanks Logan. “It’s okay. I’ll need repaying though…” A smirk on his face, Logan begins to unbuckle his belt. Kayla pockets the money before moving towards him, “I’ll give you the full works” she whispers. She feels her heart thumping in her chest as Logan kisses her neck. “That’s what I like to hear.” The pair begin to kiss passionately, Kayla pulling Logan’s shirt off and throwing it onto the sofa. She squeals as Logan scoops her up and she wraps her legs around his waist as he carries her into the bedroom.
Laying on Noah’s bed, Zack is wrapped up in Noah’s arms. He sniffles as he looks up at his boyfriend. “What a mess” Zack whispers. Noah takes a deep breath and kisses Zack’s forehead. “We’ll get through this” he promises. “I’m so sorry… the funeral’s tomorrow. I shouldn’t have come here with my issues.” “Where else would you have gone, Zack?” Noah asks, “I’m glad you came here. You’re my boyfriend, and I love you.” Zack kisses him softly. “Why do you put up with me?” he whispers. Noah shrugs. “Cos you’re fit” he says playfully. Noah lays back on the bed and the pair cuddle up together, warm in each other’s arms.
Approaching the funeral directors, Nikki and Bev are silent. Eventually, Bev speaks up. “The boys will be alright” Bev says. Nikki nods. “I’m glad Noah’s got someone there for him” she whispers. She looks up at the sign for ‘Elliott & Son Funeral Directors’, and sighs. “Thanks for coming, mum… but I think I need to see him alone.” Bev takes her daughter’s hand. “I’ll be outside” she assures Nikki. Composing herself, Nikki steps into the undertakers. After speaking to an employee, Nikki is led through to a room, where Dave’s coffin sits. Dave Harding is laying in it, and Nikki feels a lump form in her throat. She rubs her finger along Dave’s hand, wincing at how cold he feels. “Look at me, I’m a mess” Nikki whispers, taking Dave’s hand, “You look so peaceful. It’s weird, you’re not snoring.” Nikki pauses, as if waiting for a response, but one doesn’t come. She sighs.
“I don’t know what I expected, you know. I don’t… I don’t know what I wanted from this. For you to sit up and just… talk to me, maybe? Crack one of your crappy jokes or comment on the state of the world. They didn’t empty the bins again last week… bloody binmen, eh? You’d have hated that… probably wrote into the Telegraph, little piece on the back page. Maybe I should do it for you.” The room is silent, and warm – Nikki feels the heat catch in her throat. “God, hot in here, ain’t it?” her voice breaks, “You were always cold, weren’t you? Always moaning about the temperature. Least you had a nice summer, eh?” A tear runs down Nikki’s cheek. “I’m sorry, Dave” she admits, “I’m sorry I wasn’t there… I’m sorry I couldn’t protect you. I tried, I really did. But I let you down.” Nikki runs a finger along the side of Dave’s coffin, tracing a love heart on the wood. “It won’t be long until I see you again, my darling” she admits, “Keep a space for me up there, yeah? Don’t…” Nikki’s eyes well with tears, “Don’t blame me.” As tears fall down Nikki’s cheeks, she shakes her head. “I love you, David Harding.” With that, Nikki leans in and kisses Dave’s forehead, before turning around and leaving the room. The scene focuses on Dave’s coffin, before fading to black.
Regular Cast: Amber Morgan: Millie Gibson Chloe Hall: Charlotte Jordan Dylan Morgan: Bleu Landau Elyse Anderson: Andrea Ali Kayla Hayton: Georgia-May Foote Naomi Morgan: Kim Medcalf Nicola “Nikki” Harding: Alex Fletcher Noah Harding: Charlie Behan Robert “Rob” Morgan: Will Mellor Sophia Morgan: Tilly Keeper
Recurring Cast: Beverley “Bev” Daniels: Sue Johnston Esme Summers: Robyn Ashwood Fiona “Fi” Kinsella: Deena Payne Logan Bradley: Benjamin O’Mahony Marley: Uncredited (Dog) Melissa Richards: Ali Bastian Thomas Richards: Richard Winsor Zachary “Zack” Richards: Sam Hall
Guest Cast: David “Dave” Harding: David Kennedy
• ORIGINAL PUBLICATION: 2023.10.12
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Dec 31, 2023 15:03:17 GMT
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Dec 31, 2023 15:03:57 GMT
Wednesday 4th October 2023 WARNING: Contains emotional material some readers may find upsetting
A light rain falls as Nicola ‘Nikki’ Harding stands in the back garden of her home on a cold afternoon, looking up at the overcast sky. She is dressed in all-black, as prepared as she can be for the funeral of her husband Dave, who died a month ago. She is soon joined by her eldest son Jason Harding, in a suit. “Dad would’ve had something to say about the weather” Jase laughs as he rubs his mother’s arm. Nikki is in agreement. “He’d hate it. Bet he’s up there cursing at us, telling us to hold off a few days until the weather’s nicer.” Jason laughs – it feels wrong, given the circumstances, but soon, Nikki joins him. Inside the house, Nikki’s elderly mother Beverley ‘Bev’ Daniels is straightening the tie of her grandson Noah Harding. Noah sucks in a sharp breath.
“Cheers, nan” he says. Bev pats his shoulders. “You look nice, Noah” she compliments. “Shame about the circumstances, hey?” Noah whispers. Bev nods. “He was so proud of you” she declares. The pair are then joined by Noah’s boyfriend Zachary ‘Zack’ Richards, who is staying with the family after being kicked out by his own. “I’m really glad you’re coming” Noah says, taking Zack’s hand. Zack smiles. “I wouldn’t let you go through it alone. Are you sure your mum doesn’t mind me just wearing one of your shirts? I would wear a suit but all my stuff’s still at home…” “It’s fine, pet” Bev insists, “Just you being there means a lot.” Noah and Zack share a soft kiss, and Bev smiles at the sight.
At the Kinsella family’s home, Brady Kinsella is hungover as he mopes around in the kitchen in a vest and his boxers. His cousin Chloe Hall soon joins him. “Good night?” she asks. Brady shrugs. “Just had a few beers in the garden… nothing better to do.” “A lot of beers… is this about Dave’s funeral?” she asks softly. Looking into his cousin’s eyes, Brady desperately wants to say ‘yes’, but the words refuse to leave his mouth. “I’ve just got a lot going on” he manages eventually, turning away from Chloe. “Brades…” “Come on, you” calls out Ronan Kinsella as he joins his brother in the kitchen. Brady cringes at Ronan’s loud voice. “What…” “We’re going out” Ronan insists. Brady’s face drops. “I was hoping to just…” “Lounge around the house all day, moping?” Ronan asks with a raised eyebrow, “No, there’s an auction in Northampton. I thought we could go and have a look, see if there’s an old banger we can buy and do up.” Brady sighs deeply, but agrees.
Staring at her reflection in the full-length mirror in her bedroom, Kayla Hayton is unsure how she feels about the black blazer she has chosen to don for the funeral of Dave. Kayla thinks back to the previous night, when she had sex with her boss and secret boyfriend Logan Bradley. She looks over at the bed and a smile spreads across her face. Her phone buzzes and she picks it up to see a text from Logan. “Enjoyed last night… make sure you’re ready for tonight.” Throwing her phone down onto the bed, Kayla squeezes her eyes shut tightly.
At Ashbury Community College, twins Dylan and Amber Morgan are eating lunch in the cafeteria. Amber puts some food into her mouth. “How did your date go?” she asks curiously. Dylan notices Esme Summers walking past him and smirks discretely. “It didn’t” Dylan lies, “I cancelled.” Amber scoffs. “After getting all dolled up? Give over!” “I did! I wasn’t feeling it.” Raising an eyebrow, Amber asks what he did instead. “Just chilled at home watching Netflix. Why are you so interested?” “Cos I was dragged out with mum and had the worst night of my life!” sighs Amber, “So forgive me for needing to live vicariously through you.” “Well, I’m sorry that your night was so crap… but mine wasn’t much better.” Amber then sighs. “Still, none of our days can be as bad as Noah’s today, hey?” she says sadly, “I can’t imagine having to bury my dad.” Dylan nods. “Yeah, must suck. Look, I’ve gotta go. I’ll catch you later.” Getting up, Dylan leaves quickly, as Amber is left alone, bemused. Her phone buzzes, and she looks down at a forwarded image on WhatsApp. She clicks onto it and her jaw falls, dropping her phone onto the table as she fights the urge to be sick.
Back at the Harding family’s home, Nikki, Jason, Bev, Noah and Zack are getting ready to leave. Jason has now been joined by his fiancée, Chelsea Bryant, who has reluctantly decided to bring along newborn son Beau Harding, not willing to leave him with a childminder due to his age. Nikki smiles down at her grandson. “He’s gorgeous” she whispers. Jason places a hand on her shoulder. “He is, isn’t he?” Bev then joins the family in the living room. “The hearse is here” Bev whispers. Nikki feels her stomach tighten. “I guess it's time” she whispers.
Stepping out onto the street, Nikki takes in the sight of the hearse, Dave’s coffin inside. Her lip quivers and her hand tremors, but Noah swoops in and takes hold of her hand, squeezing it tightly. “We’ll get through this, mum” Noah assures her. Jason joins his mother on her other side and links arms with her as the three step out of their front garden. The street is lined with mourners; Paul Gordon and Leona Anderson stand watching, while Dave’s friend Rob Morgan is standing outside of his house with wife Naomi, Nikki’s friend. Rob and Paul exchange glances from across the street and share a sympathetic smile. Nikki looks over at the Kinsella family home and feels her blood boil: Bev notices her train of sight and moves towards Nikki. “Focus on giving Dave the send-off he deserves, okay love?” Bev offers. Nikki nods, knowing that she is right.
In the Kinsella home, Brady and Ronan are getting ready to leave for Northampton, when they are joined by Ronan’s wife Emma Kinsella, who lets out a frustrated sigh. Ronan tilts his head. “What’s up, love?” he asks, moving towards Emma. Emma feels emotion overwhelming her. “I just… I feel useless” Emma admits, “I want to support Chelsea. She’s my friend, my colleague, but… but I can’t, can I? Nikki’d go mad if I were there. She hates me, she hates us.” Brady guiltily shuffles his feet. “The best you can do is drop her a text” Ronan suggests, “Let her know you’re thinking of her. But keep your distance… there’s no point causing drama.” Nodding, Emma concedes that Ronan is right. She glances up at a moping Brady. “I know how you feel” he speaks up, “All I can think about is Jason. I miss him… I miss my best mate.” Emma narrows her eyes. “You weren’t thinking about Jason when you robbed his family’s business and attacked his dad though, were you?” she snarls.
Ronan is taken aback by Emma’s venom, while Brady feels his anger bubble. “That ain’t fair Emma…” “No, what ain’t fair is you playing the victim when it’s your own fault you’re in this mess. You still ain’t even said why you did it, Brady?” Grabbing his jacket, Brady heads for the back door. “Brades!” Ronan calls out, but it is too late, as Brady has left. Ronan turns to his wife. “Seriously, Em?” “What? I ain’t having him play the victim, Ro. He’s brought this on himself.” Emma then heads upstairs, as Ronan sighs. Outside, Brady steps out onto Oakford Avenue and watches as the Harding family climb into the funeral cars. Brady watches, full of guilt: but he is soon distracted by a text from ‘B’, asking him to meet.
As the funeral cars pull off and Brady walks in the opposite direction, a taxi pulls up on Oakford Avenue. A pair of red high heels step out, belonging to a glamorous older woman carrying a suitcase. Alison Hall looks up at the Kinsella house with a look of determination on her face. Inside, Chloe is sat in silence as a stressed Ronan tries to call Brady. Fiona ‘Fi’ Kinsella joins them following a nap and sighs. “What’s going on?” she asks. “Brady and Emma had an argument” Chloe informs her. Fi is about to say something, but the doorbell ringing interrupts her. Moving towards the front door, Fi opens it to find her older sister Alison standing in front of her. “Alright Fiona?” smirks Alison as Fi excitedly pulls her sister into a hug. From the living room, Chloe’s face drops, having heard her mother’s booming voice…
In The Rose and Crown, Elyse Anderson and her step-brother Aaron Gordon are finishing setting up the pub for Dave’s wake, in the absence of Paul and Leona, who are attending the funeral. “It still feels weird, walking into Drive Buy and not seeing Dave” Elyse sighs as she puts up a large, framed photo of Dave on a table. “Just makes you think about how precious life is, hey?” Aaron agrees, “It can all change in an instant.” Elyse wipes a tear from her eye. “Look at us being soppy” she laughs. She moves behind the bar and sighs. “Me and Sophia are gonna have a new flatmate from next week.” “Oh yeah?” “Yeah… you know Fi’s niece Chloe? She’s moving in with us.” Aaron goes sheepish at the mention of Chloe’s name, as he secretly slept with her a few weeks back. He nods. “Nice. How’d that come about?” “We kinda became mates after the speed dating night. And she’s looking to get off her aunt’s sofa, so…” Aaron laughs at the memory of that sofa. “Speaking of the speed dating… have you seen anyone that you met there?” “No” Elyse admits, “I… I got a number but I haven’t called him.” “Aw come on, El” Aaron pouts, “You should give him a ring.” “I can’t bring myself to do it…” “Like I said… life’s too short. When you cark it, you don’t want to end up having regrets… so just give him a call. What’s the worst that can happen?” Aaron then leaves Elyse to ponder his words.
At the church, Matt and Imogen Preston watch as a forlorn Nikki gets out of the funeral car, Bev and Jason by her side. “Poor Nikki” Imogen sighs. Their daughter Lily Preston moves towards her best friend Noah and pulls him into a hug. Zack watches the friends embrace. “We’re all here for you today” Lily promises, squeezing Noah’s hand. Noah thanks her. Jason and Chelsea are about to head into the church when Kayla approaches. “Thanks for coming, Kayla” Jason says to his neighbour and Chelsea’s best friend. Kayla smiles. “I’m sorry about your dad” she says. As Jase and Chelsea head inside to get Beau settled, Kayla sees Sophia Morgan approaching with her boyfriend Damon Cullen and sighs.
Inside the church, Chelsea hugs Jason. “I’d best go back outside, I’m a pallbearer” Jason says. Chelsea takes his hand. “I love you” she whispers. Jason kisses her lips. “I love you too.” He heads outside, as mourners begin to file into the church. Bev and Nikki approach the front row as music begins to play. Outside, Noah, Jason, Rob and Paul help to lift the coffin alongside some of the undertakers. Noah and Jason share a mournful glance before beginning their journey into the church. Simon and Garfunkel’s “Bridge Over Troubled Water” plays as the coffin is carried down the aisle. Bev holds a crying Nikki while Chelsea feels herself welling up, watching as her boyfriend supportively wraps an arm around his younger brother. At the college, Dylan is walking down one of the corridors as those around him begin to laugh. Ignoring it, he carries on towards his class, until a passing lad makes a comment. “Nice thighs, Morgan” the lad smirks. Dylan scrunches up his face. “Thanks?” he manages, confused as nearby peers erupt into laugher. Amber’s panicked face comes into view, and she shakes her head. “How could you be so stupid?” she hisses, shoving her brother. “What are you on about?” Dylan asks, confused. “It’s being shared all over college!” Amber holds up her phone, and Dylan’s jaw drops as he sees a naked photo of him in his living room. His blood runs cold. “Where did you get that?” he asks. “It was sent to me” Amber explains, “It’s been sent to everybody. Everyone’s seen it, Dylan.” Dylan staggers backwards in shock, leaning against the wall, “I didn’t send that to anybody” he vows, “I didn’t even take it.” Realisation soon hits him, and he groans. “That was taken yesterday” he whispers. Amber sighs. “Your date? The one that you supposedly cancelled on?” she asks. Dylan nods. “Yeah.” “Who was it, Dyl?” Amber asks him outright. Down the hall, Dylan sees Esme with her friends, all giggling – and as Esme and Dylan make eye contact, he sees her smirk deviously. Dylan’s blood runs cold. At the church, the mood is sombre as the priest finishes his speech before inviting Dave’s widow Nikki to say a few words. Nikki feels her body shaking. She stands up and moves towards the front of the church. All eyes on her, she pulls a folded-up piece of paper from her blazer pocket and begins to unfold it. Jason looks over at Noah, who is holding Zack’s hand. “Thank you all for coming” Nikki says, her voice full of emotion, and catching in her throat, “Dave would have been really happy with the turn-out today. He’d have been less pleased with the weather, but we can’t have it all.” Nikki glances at the large photo of Dave which sits beside his coffin. “My husband, David, was a beautiful man” she says, “He had the biggest heart. The nicest guy you could ever meet. I should know… I spent 30 years with him.” Bev smiles at her daughter, encouraging her to continue. Nikki begins to falter. “I, er… I’m not really sure what I’m supposed to say up here. Something that does Dave justice, I suppose, but… but no words can. Not really.” Leona rests her head on Paul’s shoulder. “To tell the truth, I thought I had another 20, 30 years before we even had to think about a funeral. To have him ripped away so soon…” Nikki blinks back her tears, looking up at the ceiling. “I’m making a mess of this. I’m so sorry…”
Nikki begins to sob, unable to continue. Standing up, Jason moves towards his mother and wraps his arms around her. Bev joins them and guides Nikki back to her seat, leaving Jason stood at the front of the church. “I don’t think we need to tell you what an amazing man my dad was” Jason admits honestly, “I think you all know that. Whether he was your friend, colleague, family member or acquaintance… he was known for his kindness. His resilience. His infectious smile and his brilliantly dark sense of humour. Always cracking jokes he shouldn’t be cracking… that was my dad.” Rob nods in agreement. “I don’t think there’s much to say” Jason smiles, “Because like my mum said, no words do him justice. I just hope you’re okay up there, big man. Probably having a pint, laughing at us all for crying. You never were a big fan of funerals.” After Jason’s speech comes to a close, he rejoins Chelsea, and the pair share a kiss. Frank Sinatra’s “My Way” begins to play, and Nikki breaks down in her mother’s arms as Noah watches on, unsure what to do; Zack by his side.
Brady arrives at a B&B in Coventry and takes a deep breath. He heads inside. Walking down the corridor, Brady approaches room 13, before lightly knocking on the door. Soon, the door opens, and a blonde man stands there, a smile on his face. “Hey stranger” greets Blaine Stokes as Brady awkwardly asks if he can come in.
Back at the college, Esme is stood chatting to some of her friends when an angry Dylan approaches. “Can we talk?” Dylan asks Esme, interrupting her conversation. Esme presses her lips. “I’m a bit busy…” “It can’t wait” Dylan insists. One of Esme’s friends smirks. “Nice package, Dylan” she coos, earning a barrage of laughter from the other girls. Dylan shoots her a glare before taking Esme by the hand and leading her away from the group. He turns back to face her, his face red with anger. “What the hell, Esme!?” he exclaims. Esme shrugs her shoulders. “What?” “Why have you sent everybody that image of me?” he asks. “I didn’t! I only sent it to the girls’ group-chat… one of them must’ve spread it round.”
“Well why did you take it in the first place?” Dylan asks. “To savour the moment” Esme shrugs, “I didn’t know if I’d see you in the nude again. Wanted to make sure I could relive it.” “If you wanted to see it again, you could’ve just called me and arranged a hook-up! Now everyone else has seen it and I’m a laughing stock. Not to mention it’s illegal… I’m 17!” “Oh liven up, Dylan” Esme pouts, “You’re blowing this out of proportion.” “Everyone in the college has seen my bits, Esme” Dylan fumes, “You’ve broken the law and you’ve ruined my life.” “You’ve got a nice body… you shouldn’t be so ashamed by it.” Esme then leans in and kisses Dylan’s cheek. “See you later, gorge.” Walking off, Esme leaves a seething Dylan by himself, as he slams his fist into a locker.
“What are you doing here?” asks Chloe as she faces off with her mother Alison in the living room of the Kinsella house. Alison scoffs. “Good to see you too, Chlo!” Alison frowns, “It’s been 6 weeks and I’ve not heard from you. I didn’t know if you were dead or alive – if your aunt hadn’t have messaged me about your birthday, I wouldn’t have known where you were!” “Whose fault is that?” Chloe snarls, “I told you when I left the house that you were dead to me… I meant it.” “This isn’t fair, Chloe” Alison pouts, but Chloe just shrugs. “Life ain’t fair, mum” spits Chloe, “And I’m sorry to tell you, but if you think I’m coming back to London… you’ve wasted a journey. I’m staying in Cov. I’m moving in to a flat next week and…” – “No. You’re coming home with me.” “I’m not” Chloe vows, “I don’t ever want to see you or Marcus again.” “We’re your parents!” Alison argues. Chloe shakes her head. “My dad’s dead” she says emotionally, “And as far as I’m concerned, so is my mother.” Alison’s face drops.
“I heard about Dave” she whispers, “I’m sorry. I can only imagine how you’ve taken that…” Alison places a hand on Chloe’s shoulder. “Are you taking your meds?” she asks. Chloe brushes her off. “Of course I am” she lies, “But you can stop with the faux concern. Go back home and focus on Kieran, or Izzie. Leave me be.” “You’re my baby girl” Alison promises, “No matter who your father is.” Fi then joins the pair in the living room. “Sorry to interrupt” she says, “I made tea.” Alison looks at her younger sister with a look of disapproval. “We’re in the middle of something, Fiona” she warns. Chloe scoffs. “This is Fi’s house” she snaps, “You don’t get to come in here and command the living room!” “Chloe, just…” “Just get out, mum!” Chloe orders, “Nobody wants you here!” “I don’t know what’s happened, but…” Fi tries to reason, but before she can say anymore, Chloe has stormed out. Alison calls her name, but she slams the front door shut. Groaning with frustration, Alison throws herself down on the sofa. Fi sighs. “So about that cuppa…” she whispers.
At the B&B, Brady is sitting in the armchair in the room while Blaine opens a window. He turns to face Brady and smirks. “I didn’t think you’d come. You’ve been ignoring my texts for weeks” Blaine says. Brady nods. “Sorry. I’ve been really busy since getting out of prison.” Blaine smiles. “I’m so glad you’re out” he whispers, “It still feels like a fever dream. Feels like yesterday we were locked up in that cell together…” Blaine moves towards Brady, “Having to find ways to keep busy.” Brady cringes as Blaine sits on the bed and rubs Brady’s thigh. Brady pushes his hand away. “Look, Blaine…” Brady begins, but he is interrupted as Blaine leans in and kisses him.
There is a flashback to 12 months previously. In a prison cell, a shirtless Blaine was panting heavily as his cellmate Brady laid next to him, shaking his head. “That was unreal” Brady whispered as he looked over at Blaine, who smirked. “You sure know how to make a guy feel special.” As Blaine leaned in and kissed Brady, Brady felt his body tense up. Blaine noticed, rubbing a hand across Brady’s chest. “Ease up” he whispered, “Nobody’s going to find out.” “The screws would go mad” he said, “I just feel…” “This feels right” Blaine said, “I feel safe when I’m with you.” Brady nodded. “How many guys have you been with? Before prison, I mean?” Brady asked. Blaine looked him in the eyes. “Three or four” he admitted, “I came out as bisexual about a year before I was sent down. You?”
Brady sighed. “Just one” he said, “My mate… Jase. He’s my best mate.” Blaine nodded. “You have a habit of sleeping with your friends then, yeah?” Blaine laughed. Brady shrugged his shoulders. “You could say that” he whispered. Back in the present day, Brady pushes Blaine away from him and sighs. “We need to talk” he says. Blaine shakes his head. “We can talk later” Blaine whispers, “There’s something I want to do first.” Blaine straddles Brady’s lap and pulls him into a passionate kiss. Letting Blaine kiss him, Brady pulls his shirt off before standing up and pushing Blaine onto the bed, as the pair begin to undress and have sex.
At the graveside, the mourners have gathered around to watch Dave’s coffin be lowered into his grave. Nikki, Bev, Noah and Jason huddle together as they watch in silence. Nikki looks around. “I can’t believe none of Dave’s family are here” she says angrily. Bev rubs her arm. “Don’t focus on that right now, love” Bev insists, “They’re not worth your time.” Some time later, the mourners begin to walk away from the grave. Leona approaches Nikki and hugs her. “That was beautiful” she says and her fiancé Paul nods in agreement. “You’ve done Dave proud” Paul agrees. Nikki thanks the pair of them. “And thank you for organising the wake. Are you sure you don’t want any money for it?” “Dave was our friend” Leona insists, “It’s on us.” Nikki hugs the pair.
Jason sighs as he and his girlfriend Chelsea walk back to their car. “You okay?” Chelsea asks. Jason shrugs. “I feel… numb” he admits. “You did amazingly with your speech” says Chelsea, “Your dad would have loved it.” “I just rambled” Jason tells her, “But I meant it all.” Jason and Chelsea then kiss. Across the gravel car park, Noah, Lily and Zack are walking together. Lily smiles as she sees Zack and Noah holding hands. “I’m glad you two are together again” Lily admits. Zack tilts his head. “Thought you hated me” he laughs. Lily shrugs. “I hated that you were holding Noah back cos you were closeted. Now you’re ready to be open about things… I’m happy for you.” Noah smiles, thanking Lily, before kissing Zack. “Just a shame not everyone can be as happy for you as Lily, hey?” he says sadly. Zack nods – Noah is referring to Zack’s parents, who kicked him out. He squeezes Noah’s hand. “At least I have you.”
Back at the college, a fuming Dylan is sitting on the football field, skipping his lesson. Stressed, he is vaping: and doesn’t notice as his best mate Curtis Gordon approaches him. “Rough day?” he asks. Dylan looks up at him and sighs. “Don’t act like you haven’t heard” he says. Curtis nods. “Oh, no, I’ve heard. I’ve seen, too.” Curtis sits beside Dylan on the field as a frustrated Dylan picks a blade of grass and flicks it. “I didn’t know she’d taken the picture” Dylan admits, “I didn’t…” “You need to report it” Curtis tells his friend, “I’ve done some research. It’s child pornography.” “That’s too serious” Dylan says, “Esme’d get into trouble. Loads of it.” “That’s what she deserves” Curtis argues, “She took a picture of you, naked, without your permission, Dyl… she deserves to get into trouble for that.” Dylan huffs. “I dunno, man…” “The best way to get this deleted is to report it to the police” Curtis reveals. Dylan looks into his eyes. “My mum and dad’ll find out. They’ll be furious…” “You’ve done nothing wrong, Dyl.” Curtis rests a hand on Dylan’s shoulder and squeezes it, “You’re the victim here.”
After having sex with Blaine, Brady rolls over and looks up at the ceiling. Blaine grins, resting his head on Brady’s bare chest. “That was as amazing as I remember” he smirks. Brady looks him in the eye. “Don’t pretend we didn’t do this when I saw you a few weeks back” Brady says. He is referring to when they secretly met up on the day that Dave Harding passed away. Blaine shrugs. “It wasn’t as good as that.” Blaine leaves a trail of kisses down Brady’s chest. “I’ve been thinking… you’re sleeping on your brother’s sofa. You don’t have a job. There’s nothing here for you, Brades.” Brady arches an eyebrow at Blaine’s words. “Come down to London with me” Blaine offers. Brady scoffs. “What?” “We can make a go of things properly” Blaine insists.
“Erm… look, Blaine.” Brady feels his palms becoming sweaty, “I dunno how to say this but… you’ve been a mate to me, yeah? You helped me get through prison, and… and you helped me let off some steam when I needed to inside. You helped me realise that yeah, I am fluid in my sexuality, but…” Blaine sighs. “You still haven’t told your family, have you?” “No” Brady admits, “And I dunno when, or if, I will, cos… cos I ain’t comfortable with it yet. What I’m tryna say is… I’m not sure we should see each other again.” Blaine nods. “This was a goodbye?” he asks. Brady smiles. “Yeah. Yeah, it was.” Without saying another word, Blaine gets out of the bed and begins to gather up his clothes. He pulls his boxers and jeans on before picking Brady’s clothes up and throwing them at him. “You can leave now” Blaine says sternly before disappearing into the bathroom, as Brady sighs.
In the Kinsella home, Fi and Alison are sat talking over a cup of tea. Alison is telling Fi about how difficult life with Chloe has been for the last few years. “We’ve had some… issues” Alison admits, not going as far as to tell Fi what the issues were. “Since she’s been here, Chloe’s been great. She gets on with the kids, she’s found a job… she’s made friends and is moving in with them next week.” “You haven’t seen the real Chloe” Alison sighs, “She’s… difficult. Abrasive, volatile. Angry. Lashes out.” “I’m not saying you’re lying, Allie, but…” “You won’t believe me, because she’s good at hiding it!” Alison assures her sister, “She’s a manipulator. She’s just like Marcus.” Fi softens at the mention of Marcus’ name. “How is Marcus?” she asks. Alison sighs. “Same as ever. I caught him with his secretary six months ago. We’re trying to make things work, but…” Alison shakes her head, “Enough about me. This is about Chloe. She’s dangerous, Fi. She’s a danger to herself.” Fi is unsure what to say or do.
At the pub, Dave’s wake is underway. Elyse and Aaron are behind the bar, joined by their younger sister Kelsey Gordon. Sophia approaches the bar and smiles at Elyse. “How was the funeral?” Elyse asks. “It was gorgeous, El. They really did Dave proud.” Sophia is soon joined by boyfriend Damon. “I’m just popping to the loo” he says, kissing Sophia’s lips. As Damon leaves, a bitter Kayla watches. She turns around to see Chelsea approaching her, holding Beau. “Hey you” Chelsea greets, taking a seat alongside Kayla. Kayla apologises to Chelsea for her distance today. “I’ve got a lot on my mind.” “That’s okay. To be honest, so have I… all I can think about is my aunt Lisa.” Kayla smiles sympathetically, “It must be difficult, being reminded of her passing.” “It’s come up a lot the last few weeks, since Dave died. I feel guilty, but… Dave was the closest thing to a father figure I’ve ever had. That I’ll ever have.” Kayla pulls Chelsea into a hug.
Standing by the cold buffet, Naomi and Rob are talking about Naomi’s feud with Leona. “You need to talk to her, Ney” Rob insists, “You both share a best friend and she’s grieving… if that’s not a reason to put your differences aside, I don’t know what is.” Naomi nods, looking over at Leona, who is comforting Nikki. “Yeah, you’re right” she says, placing her plate of food down and walking over to Leona and Nikki. She takes Nikki’s hand. “You’ve been amazing today, Nik” Naomi insists, “So strong.” Nikki thanks her. “I don’t feel like that strong, to be honest” she admits. Leona looks at Naomi and forces a smile. “Well you are, Nikki. Dave was your everything… and you’re still standing.” Nikki pulls her friends into a tight hug, “Thank you both for being there for me, through everything.” “Always” Leona and Naomi say in unison. Behind the bar, Elyse looks down at her phone, at Caleb’s number, which is saved. She smiles to herself before beginning to type a text message.
At a table, Jason is getting to know Zack, his brother’s boyfriend. “So you’re into sports?” Jase asks. Zack nods. “Yeah. I play rugby. You?” “I used to play football in school. Won a few school championships, but that’s about it. Sometimes go for a kickabout with the lads, though.” “Zack’s not big on footie, are you Zack?” Noah laughs. Zack shakes his head. “It’s like rugby but for kids” he smirks. As Jason laughs, the door opens, and Chloe enters. Bev sees her and frowns. “The pub’s closed for a private function” she informs Chloe, who simply nods. “Yeah, I know… I’m here for the wake.” “Listen” Bev moves towards Chloe, “I know you’re just trying to show support, but… your family and my family, there’s a lot of bad blood, okay? It’s just… it’s best for everyone if you just leave quietly” Bev insists. Chloe stands her grand. “I just want a drink.”
Making her way to the bar, Chloe smiles at Aaron. “Hey handsome. Can I get a pint of Madri please?” Aaron begins to pour the pint as Bev watches, frustrated. “I’m just popping to the lav” Nikki says to Leona and Naomi, but as she begins to walk towards the bathroom, she spots Chloe standing at the bar. Seeing red, she makes a beeline for her. “What the hell are you doing here?” Nikki snarls as Chloe turns to face her. “Nikki…” – “Get out” Nikki warns. Chloe sighs. “Look, I get it, you hate my cousin, but…” “I don’t just hate your cousin. I hate everyone associated with him. You’re all scum. Your rotten family killed my husband!” As Nikki raises her voice, everybody in the pub turns to look. Jason stands up and moves towards his mum. “Mum, come on, calm down” he insists, placing a hand on Nikki’s arm, but Nikki shrugs him off. “I want her out!” Nikki shouts, “I want her out right now!” “Maybe you should go, Chlo” Elyse suggests softly.
Paul and Leona move towards the kerfuffle. “Come on, darling” Leona insists. Chloe scoffs. “Why are you all on her side?!” Chloe asks, “I’ve come in here to pay my respects and I’m being painted as the villain!” “Let’s be honest, Chloe… you knew this would happen” Bev interjects, “You know what happened with your family and you barely knew Dave, he was nothing to you.” Chloe narrows her eyes at Dave’s words. “None of you have a clue” she hisses, “None of you know the first thing about me.” “This isn’t the time or the place, Chloe” Paul insists. “No, this is the perfect time and place!” Chloe vows, “It’s about time you all knew the truth about your precious Dave.” Chloe feels her blood boiling as Nikki scoffs. “Come on then, enlighten us! What do you possibly know about my husband?” “He had a daughter” Chloe reveals, “He had a daughter that he kept from you all. That missing 50 grand from his bank? That’s the money he took out to pay his daughter off.” “You’re being ridiculous” Jason scoffs, “Dad’s been with mum for 30 years, if he had a daughter before her he’d have…” “It wasn’t before” Chloe interrupts, “His daughter’s 25. She turns 26 in two days. And I know that, because… because it’s me. I’m his daughter… Dave was my dad.” As the pub reel, Chloe smugly looks at Nikki’s stunned, heartbroken face… In the pub, Chloe is standing by the bar, having just revealed the truth about her paternity at Dave’s wake. Nikki stares at Chloe in shock following the revelation about her husband, while Jason stands beside her, unsure what to say. At a table, Zack and Noah are reeling, while Bev moves towards Nikki. “Come on, Nik, let’s go home” Bev insists, but Nikki remains stationary. Soon, she shakes her head. “Get out” Nikki warns. Chloe doesn’t move. “I said… GET OUT!” Launching herself at Chloe, Nikki grabs her by her hair and begins to pull her around the pub. Chloe fights back, throwing her hands out and managing to grip onto Nikki’s blonde hair. As the women tussle, shouting and screaming, Jason and Paul dive in, trying to separate the pair. Jason pulls his mother away while Paul holds Chloe back. “I’ll kill you!” Nikki screams at her husband’s love child. Chloe squirms in Paul’s arms, kicking out and trying to dive at Nikki. “That’s enough!” Paul warns, guiding Chloe towards the door and tossing her out.
As Chloe staggers backwards, she screams out that this isn’t fair – she has as much right to be in that pub as anybody else. “Just go home, Chloe” Paul tells her, before slamming the door shut. Back inside, Leona and Bev have led Nikki over to a table, where she is quietly sobbing. Naomi approaches with a glass of wine. “Get this down you” she insists, but Bev just shoots her a glare. “Great idea, Naomi, let’s get her drunk(!)” she snarls. Naomi insists that she is just trying to help, but Rob swoops in and places a hand on her back, suggesting that they leave Nikki for a while. Jason takes his mother’s hand. “It’s okay, mum” Jason insists, looking over at Chelsea for reassurance, but Chelsea is trying to settle Beau, who is wailing from all the commotion.
Zack feels Noah squeeze his hand. “I need to get out of here” Noah whispers, the heat becoming too much, and he quickly escapes from the pub, followed by Zack. Nikki then stands up. “What she just said… is a lie” Nikki declares, “Dave didn’t have another daughter. She’s just a bitter cow trying to wreck my husband’s memory because she knows her vile family are to blame. So come on… let’s not let her ruin the party.” Nikki slaps on a smile as Paul offers everybody a free drink, for Dave. Kayla, having witnessed all of the drama, checks her phone and sighs as she sees the time, before using the recent distractions as an excuse to slip out undetected.
Walking down Woodside Lane, Brady is on his way home. He crosses onto Oakford Avenue and sees a forlorn Chloe walking home from The Rose and Crown. “You alright Chlo?” Brady calls out to his cousin, who just looks at him. Her eyes are red and she has clearly been crying. “What’s wrong?” Brady asks, wrapping an arm around his younger cousin as Chloe begins to sob into his chest.
Curtis and Dylan are walking out of the building, ignoring the dirty looks that Dylan is receiving. Amber soon joins him. “Where did you disappear to?” she asks. “I needed to do some thinking” Dylan admits. Amber takes a deep breath. “We need to tell mum and dad” she advises. Dylan shakes his head. “I can’t, Ambs. They’ll be devastated.” “This isn’t okay. Just tell me who did it…” Suddenly, the group are approached by Esme and some of her mates. “Are you over yourself yet Morgan?” Esme asks with a smirk on her face. Amber scoffs. “It was you?” she asks. Esme shrugs her shoulders. “I just sent it to a few of my friends, I didn’t…” Esme is met by a slap around the face before Amber grabs her and throws her to the floor. “Amber, leave it!” Dylan orders, but Amber is on top of Esme, calling her a ‘vicious cow’ and lashing out, swinging punches and slaps at her. Principal Erica Bailey rushes over, accompanied by another teacher. “What the hell is going on!?” Erica shouts as she pulls Amber off of Esme. The other teacher helps Esme up. “She just attacked me!” Esme declares. Amber scoffs. “She sent a naked photo of my brother around the college!” she screams. Erica looks at Dylan. “Is this true?” she asks. Dylan nods sheepishly. “Yeah, Miss.” Erica disapprovingly looks at a dishevelled Esme.
Sitting in her bedroom, Kayla is now dressed in a sexy outfit and is applying lipstick as she looks in her mirror. She purses her lips, before checking the time – it is 4pm. Realising she has an hour, Kayla moves towards the window. She looks down at the high street and smiles: her daughter Leah Hayton is passing with her best friend Poppy Preston. As the girls head towards the chicken shop down the road, Kayla draws the curtains.
Back at the wake, Nikki is acting as if nothing has happened. Jason shakes his head as he sits with Chelsea. “Why’s my mum acting like she hasn’t just been told dad had an affair?” he asks, dumbfounded. Chelsea shrugs her shoulders. “Maybe it’s not true, Jase?” “What reason does Chloe have to lie?” Jason asks. Chelsea tilts her head. “Why are you doubting your dad, babe? Why are you so willing to believe your dad had cheated on your mum and had a daughter she never knew about?” Jason looks Chelsea in the eyes. “Cos a few weeks ago, I saw him in the shop, and… he was being off. Proper off. Saying he’d made mistakes, done things he wasn’t proud of, and wasn’t as perfect as we all thought. He said I was a much better dad than he ever was… what if that’s what he was hinting at?” Taken aback, Chelsea is unsure what to say.
“Can you believe what Chloe said about Dave?” Aaron asks Elyse with a laugh. Elyse sighs. “She’s never normally like this, Az. I don’t think she’s the type of girl to make stuff up just to be petty.” “How much do you really know her, El?” Leona asks, “She’s only been knocking about for a few weeks.” “You don’t believe she’s telling the truth then, mum?” Kelsey questions. Leona scoffs. “Of course she ain’t! Dave wouldn’t cheat on Nikki!” Leona argues. Paul remains silent, not wanting to get involved. He turns and walks away, rousing Leona’s suspicions. She follows her fiancé. “Why aren’t you saying anything?” Leona asks, “Dave was your best mate.” Paul looks at Leona and sighs. “Cos I can’t lie” he mutters. Shaking her head, Leona moves towards Paul. “You knew?” she hisses. Paul sighs. “I didn’t… I didn’t know. But a few weeks back, Dave told me he’d had an affair… said it had come back to bite him. I thought he meant his mistress, but… but it lines up with when Chloe rocked up. So yeah… I believe Chloe.” Leona is gobsmacked as Paul heads upstairs.
Out in the pub, Rob is chatting to Matt and Imogen about what has just happened, when Naomi approaches. “I’ve got to go, Rob” Naomi says, “The college has just rung. Something’s happened. Amber’s been involved in a fight, and something’s happened with Dylan.” “I’ll come with you” Rob says, putting his drink down as he and Naomi rush from the pub. Nikki approaches Chelsea, who is sitting alone with Beau. “I just need to nip home… I’ve got a call, I’ve got a delivery coming, but I’ll be back in half an hour” Nikki says. Chelsea nods. “Jase is just in the bathroom, if you give him a minute…” – “I’ll be alright on my own” insists Nikki. She leans over and kisses Beau’s cheek. “He’s so beautiful” she whispers. Chelsea laughs. “He’s gorgeous, isn’t he?” she agrees.
Nikki then stands upright. “When you see Jase, tell him I love him, won’t you?” Nikki asks. Chelsea nods. “Course.” “And Noah. God knows where he’s got to.” “Is everything alright, Nikki?” Chelsea asks, “Is this about what Chloe said…?” “I’m fine, honestly” Nikki assures Chelsea. She looks her in the eye. “I’m sorry for the way I’ve treated you… I’ve been awful.” Chelsea smiles, reaching out and taking Nikki’s hand. “I understand” she whispers. Nikki says nothing more, simply leaving through the door of the pub. As she walks away, she turns and takes a look at the pub, a stray tear rolling down her cheek.
“You don’t believe her, do you?” Zack asks as he and Noah sit on the swings at the playground. Noah shakes his head. “No, I don’t” he vows, “I just… I didn’t want my dad’s wake to descend into that. He’d have hated it.” “It was pretty brutal” Zack admits, “I feel bad for your mum. Do you reckon we should check on her?” “She’s got people around her” Noah says, “I just… I need a minute.” The boys sit in silence for a moment, watching the world go by, and Zack looks over at Noah, who is clearly emotional, but trying not to let it show.
“Where the hell have you been?” Alison demands as Chloe and Brady walk through the door. Brady looks at Alison with disgust. Fi stands up and moves towards Chloe. “Are you okay?” she asks, noticing Chloe’s red cheek and puffy eyes. Chloe shakes her head. “I went… I went to the wake” Chloe admits. Alison’s eyes widen. “Why would you do that?” she whispers. “Did Nikki do this to you?” Fi snarls, “Cos I’ll have her!” “Calm down, mum” Brady insists, “I think it should be Alison who explains.” Alison looks at her nephew with confusion. “Explains what?” “Brady knows, mum” Chloe whispers, “Everybody does. Nikki, her family… everyone in the pub. I told them all.” Alison feels a sickly feeling in the pit of her stomach. Fi looks at her sister. “Know what?” she asks. Alison shakes her head, her hand to her mouth. “You stupid girl” she whispers, “You stupid little girl.” “Can somebody tell me what the hell has happened?!” Fi demands. “Dave Harding was Chloe’s dad!” Brady blurts out. Fi recoils in shock as she looks at Chloe: before turning and glaring expectantly at Alison, who just remains silent.
Time ticks away slowly. Kayla is growing nervous as she awaits the arrival of her client. She paces back and forth, wishing time would hurry up. Eventually, Kayla’s doorbell rings, and she rushes over to the intercom. A male voice speaks to her. “I’m here to meet Kayla” he says. Kayla buzzes him up, and soon, she opens the door to a man in his 50s. “Hey gorgeous” the guy greets, leaning in for a kiss. Kayla places a hand on his chest. “Cash upfront” she whispers. The guy pulls an envelope out and thrusts it into Kayla’s hands. Kayla opens the envelope, sees a wad of cash, and smiles, inviting the guy in. As soon as he is through the door, he turns around and kisses Kayla forcefully. Kayla is pushed against the wall as the guy kisses her neck, and an emotional Kayla closes her eyes, feeling sick to the stomach.
Dylan taps his foot impatiently as he sits outside of Erica Bailey’s office. Amber is beside him, while a few chairs down, Esme is in a strop, shooting daggers at the Morgan twins. Soon, Rob and Naomi come rushing down the corridor. “What the hell has happened?” Naomi demands. From the other direction, Logan Bradley approaches. He moves towards Esme. “Esme, are you okay?” he asks. Esme pulls her half-brother into a hug. “I’m fine” she insists. Erica exits her office and sighs. “Mr and Mrs Morgan. Mr Bradley. If you’d like to come in.” They all file into the office, followed by Dylan, Amber and Esme. “Please, take a seat” Erica says. Rob, Naomi and Logan all sit down. “What’s happened?” Rob asks.
Erica sighs and informs the group of Amber and Esme’s fight, and Esme taking a nude photograph of Dylan and sending it to her friends. “You slept with that weasel?” Logan scoffs. “Watch it pal” Rob warns. Logan holds his hands up and apologises. “I don’t think you understand the seriousness here, Mr Bradley” Erica says sternly, “Esme has committed a crime. She’s created, possessed and distributed child pornography. The police have to be involved.” “She’s a kid herself!” Logan argues, “She’s 17, she’s the same age – how can she be a nonce?” “I’m not suggesting that” Erica insists, “But what she’s done… it’s a crime.” “Have the police been informed?” Naomi speaks up. Erica says that they haven’t. “But as I’m sure you can understand, we need to alert them…” “Good. Cos if you didn’t… I would.” Dylan’s eyes widen as his mother looks Logan in the eye.
Christina Aguilera and A Great Big World’s “Say Something” plays.
In the Harding family’s home, a piece of paper lies on the dining room table, folded over. On the side facing up, a word is written in black pen: ‘Sorry’. Upstairs, Nikki is standing in the bathroom, staring at her reflection in the mirror: she is crying. She reaches into the bathroom cabinet and pulls out a box of sleeping medication that the doctor prescribed her following Dave’s death: she opens it to reveal that the medication is untouched, every tablet is still there. Nikki takes one out, then another, then another, and another, and another… she empties the box into her hand before beginning to put them into her mouth, tears gushing down her face.
Walking down Oakford Avenue, Noah and Zack are on their way home, not in the mood for the remainder of the wake. They arrive outside of the Harding home, and Noah sighs. “Thank you for today” he says. Zack leans in and kisses him softly. “No worries.” Heading inside, the boys are about to head through to the living room, but Noah hesitates. “I need the bathroom” he says. “I’m just gonna go make myself a drink” Zack tells him, heading through to the kitchen, while Noah goes upstairs. Zack spots the note on the table and frowns at it, about to reach out for it – but he hesitates. Suddenly, he hears a loud wailing sound, and rushes up the stairs. Zack bursts through the bathroom door to find his boyfriend cradling Nikki in his arms, an empty box of sleeping tablets by her side. Noah shakes his head. “Call an ambulance” he sobs as he holds his mother’s lifeless, unresponsive body. Zack darts from the room, while Noah tries to rouse Nikki, begging her to wake up: but it is no use…
The song continues playing over the credits.
Regular Cast: Aaron Gordon: Jack James Ryan Amber Morgan: Millie Gibson Brady Kinsella: Danny Walters Chelsea Bryant: Jessica Plummer Chloe Hall: Charlotte Jordan Curtis Gordon: Jaden Ladega Damon Cullen: Matthew James-Bailey Dylan Morgan: Bleu Landau Elyse Anderson: Andrea Ali Emma Kinsella: Sammy Winward Imogen Preston: Catherine Tyldesley Jason Harding: Adam Woodward Kayla Hayton: Georgia-May Foote Kelsey Gordon: Yasmin Finney Leona Anderson: Diane Parish Lily Preston: Ellie Dadd Matthew “Matt” Preston: David Tag Naomi Morgan: Kim Medcalf Nicola “Nikki” Harding: Alex Fletcher Noah Harding: Charlie Behan Paul Gordon: Robert Beck Robert “Rob” Morgan: Will Mellor Ronan Kinsella: Ayden Callaghan Sophia Morgan: Tilly Keeper
Recurring Cast: Beau Harding: Uncredited Beverley “Bev” Daniels: Sue Johnston Erica Bailey: Lisa Maxwell Esme Summers: Robyn Ashwood Fiona “Fi” Kinsella: Deena Payne Leah Hayton: Amelia Flanagan Logan Bradley: Benjamin O’Mahony Poppy Preston: Erin Palmer Zachary “Zack” Richards: Sam Hall
Guest Cast: Alison Hall: Harriet Thorpe Blaine Stokes: Dayle Hudson
• ORIGINAL PUBLICATION: 2023.10.26
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Dec 31, 2023 15:04:15 GMT
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