David’s best efforts with Ruth might not be good enough.

Radio Times: David tries to build bridges.

Characters: David, Emma, Hayley, Joe, Ruth, Susan

• Susan would like Emma to have a night out, even if only at The Bull – but she would meet Fallon who is barely speaking to her these days. Emma would like Susan to go – but she might meet Clarrie!
• Ruth is in a panic trying to find something to wear tonight that makes her feel comfortable. David, at his kindest, makes a suggestion and assures her she will look lovely.
• Susan’s hopes that the whole family might get involved in the Christmas show are soon dashed: Emma is convinced that if she turns up, Clarrie and Fallon would walk out. It is suddenly chilly, as both Emma and Susan experience the moaning wind. Don’t panic!
• David and Ruth like the look of the menu; it is quite a while since they have been. Too long, they must do it more often. Then the conversation turns to ideas for marketing their beef, following Tom’s initiative. How romantic.
• Susan and Emma seek refuge at Willow Farm, where Hayley already has a visitor, Joe. He explains that the land, on which their house is built, is cursed. Thanks, Joe. It was something about a cowman who hanged himself, though whether for love or money Joe cannot remember.
• David is really sorry about Sophie, and everything; he hopes they can move on but Ruth will not go beyond ‘maybe’. He compliments her on the top she is wearing, though as she points out he did not notice it when she bought it. The necklace goes well with it; it’s the one he bought her when Pip was born; they were so happy then. Ruth agrees; they were. But at the end of the evening, even a hug is too much for Ruth, especially when cufflink becomes entangled with necklace and breaks it. David will get it mended; it will be as good as new.