Adam and Ian have some exciting news. Alice has some exciting news. Brian is anxious to keep out of the news.

Radio Times: Adam faces a crisis and Nic comes to the rescue

Characters: Adam, Alice, Brian, Ian, Jennifer, Nic

• After his conversation with David, Brian feels somewhat better, though Jenny’s twittering can’t be the best medicine. Alice arrives on her way to see a client and cheerfully announces that she has heard Brian had Emma Grundy round. Adam then arrives, and, sensing further grief from him, Brian goes into the attack; he is seeing the EA this afternoon and is determined not to be intimidated.
• Adam launches into a rather stilted speech, pointing out the possible cost implications if the insurers decline to pay up, and firmly quashing Brian’s suggestion of sacking the contractors, Adam has decided to call a meeting of all the partners to discuss the way forward. Debbie and Kate will join in by phone and Ruth will be there to represent Ruairidh. Brian has little option but to accept the plan. Adam then announces that he and Ian want to talk to Brian and Jennifer about another matter when Ian finishes work.
• A delighted Alice pulls off a big sales contract, and has several drinks to celebrate. Nic finds her, and suggests ringing Chris to fetch Alice, but the idea is initially dismissed. Nic does manage to persuade Alice to leave her car where it is, and to have a strong coffee. She tells Alice that she understands things are difficult for her, and Alice agrees that not driving was the right thing.
• Adam and Ian arrive, but Brian is busy with a phone call, so Jennifer is the recipient of the news that an egg has been sourced and that Adam will donate his sperm tomorrow. Then comes the bombshell: Lexi will be the host. Jennifer tries vainly to sound pleased. Brian then arrives, and, sensing his views on the whole subject, Jenny resorts to twitter mode again. Isn’t it lovely, Darling? And yes, of course Lexi can use the holiday cottage, can’t she? I suppose so is the glum response.
• Returning to the contamination matter, Adam asks how Brian got on with the EA. Vainly trying to appear positive, Brian talks about making it clear to the EA that he wanted to get on with the clean-up and will his solicitor tomorrow. Adam suggests that he prepares a good case for the partnership meeting.
• Once they are alone, Brian tells Jennifer that the phone call was from Neil, who wants Brian to attend the Parish Council meeting. Jennifer thinks he should, so that he does not appear to be hiding anything. It will be like facing a roomful of Emma Grundys, says Brian dolefully.