Helen invites Rob to Pat’s birthday supper. It doesn’t go well.

Radio Times: There is a new guest at Bridge Farm, and Helen is not happy.

Characters: Helen, Kirsty, Pat, Rob, Tom, Tony

• Helen is off to the shop leaving Henry with Pat… Helen tries to get Rob invited to Pat’s birthday dinner. Initially Pat resists but gives in. Alone with Tony he says she has been generous but Pat says it makes no difference, her birthday is ruined anyway. As long as he doesn’t turn up with flowers.
• Tom is concerned about numbers for the wedding. 100 won’t be many once children are included. Kirsty worries a bit about the money but Tom is sure they can afford – what’s the point of earning money if they don’t spend it. They are anxious about the birthday evening though, they will have to remember not to mention Rob.
• When Tom and Kirsty turn up, Rob is already there. They can’t keep their hands off each other. He has turned up with flowers but they aren’t for Pat, they are for Helen. Rob seems to have picked the ideal book for Pat. Conversation remains stilted. Tony and Tom seem okay with Rob but Kirsty and Pat use every opportunity for another dig – including a dig from Pat about Eddie and Clarrie’s stable marriage.
• Rob and Helen agree conversation isn’t going well but Rob says they must give it time. It’s all new for them.
• After he’s gone Pat and Helen have another argument. Helen says she’s never been happier. Pat says it’s not just about Helen, it’s about Henry. Helen insists Rob is great with him. Tony agrees that is a good thing. After a few more cross words Pat says it’s hopeless, Helen is besotted with him.