14/09/2013 EastEnders Omnibus

Jack.

Thought I heard someone.

-Sorry, sweetheart, did I wake you up?

-No.

Roxy did.

Ronnie comes out of prison today.

Gets out at five o'clock.

I'm fine with it.

I don't believe you.

Bit of a coincidence - Ronnie gets out and you can't sleep?

It's Tommy that can't sleep.

I made my peace with her before she went inside.

-There's nothing more to be said.

-Really?

-Really.

-She won't come back here.

-Says who?

Says me.

-You're bringing her here?

-Yes.

-Are you off your head?

Jack, she's my sister. She needs me and I need her.

How about Alfie? What does he need?

He'll be all right.

You ain't even told him, have you?

He said he couldn't have her back here and...

Look, I think he's just panicking.

-You know what? You're kidding yourself, Roxy.

-No, I'm not.

Listen, once I've explained to him how I feel, told him what she means to me, he'll come round.

He has to. He's got too big a heart not to.

So if you've sorted all this, why you telling me?

Really? OK, you know what, Jack, you just pretend you don't care all you like,

but I know how it was with you and Ron.

-I thought you might be feeling...

-What?

You normally go running this time of the morning, do you?

You know my brother? He's inside for something he didn't do, all right?

I'm a little bit preoccupied.

Jack, I just wanted you to be prepared, that's all.

Yeah, well, I've told Ronnie all I need to say.

If you want to rewind time and forget everything,

then you do that, all right? Because I can't.

You're scared.

Yeah...I've got a right to be.

-You're keen.

-I quit.

-You quit?

-That's right.

-You're serious?

-Deadly.

Morning!

-How are we all?

-She quits.

-You quit?

-Who quits? Dee?

-No, Shirl.

-Shirley?

-You're really doing it?

-Doing what?

Leaving this dump to go sit on a beach in Greece.

-Like Shirley Valentine?

-No, like Shirley Carter.

No messing, no fellas, just me, the sea and a bottle of Ouzo.

-When?

-Tomorrow.

-You can't!

Shirley, she's right, it's not practical.

-You don't speak the language.

-How'd you know?

-Do you?

-No.

-And then there's the diet - you don't know what they eat.

-That's a good point.

-I mean, there could be cannibals out there.

-We do sell hummus, Kim.

-Yeah, but do you know what's in it?

-And you haven't got any money.

-Could end up homeless.

Yeah. Eating human flesh out of a dustbin covered in hummus.

Thank you for your concern, ladies, it's very touching

but I've had a little windfall.

I'm going to be fine.

Cheer up, it might never happen.

All right? You OK?

Yeah, I just feel like my ribs have been through the mangle.

So what's up? You trying to avoid me?

Look, I don't want to appear rude or anything,

but I think it'd be safer if people didn't see you and me talking to each other.

Oh, that's a shame.

I thought we could set up a little coffee morning together or something.

Yeah, I know.

Makes Phil Mitchell look like a ballerina, don't he?

You look tired.

Well, you know, I just keep going over everything, don't I?

I walked straight into Carl's trap, didn't I? Stupid.

I've let everyone down. I've let you down, the girls down...

It's all right. We're coping.

Yeah, I don't want you just to have to cope, do I?

-How's everything? All right?

-Yeah. We'll get you out of here.

-Think so?

-The case rests on this witness.

All right, without them the evidence is purely circumstantial.

But what if Carl's got whoever it is in his pocket?

All we've got to do is find out who this person is.

Yeah, well, leave it with me. I'll make a few calls.

How are the girls?

Lauren - just keep an eye on her, will you? I'm worried about her.

Something like this...push her over the edge, won't it?

Please, don't worry.

I've got it all under control, 100%.

Rox, why don't you take the day off? You know, do a bit of shopping, go and spoil yourself. Day out.

No, you're all right, I'd rather work. You know, keep busy.

Yeah, I know, course. I understand.

Look, Alfie...

..before we open up, have you got a minute to talk to me?

Kat, where's Tommy?

He's with Alice.

I'll go and make a start downstairs.

Yeah.

What? It makes sense, she's looking after Scarlett anyway.

It's not as if I'm leaving him with a stranger.

They live under the same roof.

She'll bring him over later.

Course. Yeah, I know, course.

So, how is the little fella?

He had a hot date In The Night Garden at five in the morning! So I'm knackered.

-How you feeling?

-I'm fine.

-No, really?

Really. Are you?

Not good, to be honest.

Listen, I know it sounds daft, but a couple of nights ago, I slept on Tommy's floor.

-It's the only place I could relax.

-She's not going to come back here

-and even if she did, there's no way...

-Kat, I know. I know. I know.

I get it, it's irrational,

but she just got out of prison and she could be any place, anywhere.

You seem...you seem OK about it all.

I wish I was as strong as you.

I know I'm late, but I've been on the go since the crack of dawn sorting out Abi and Lauren

because I promised Max I'd keep an eye on them.

-Tiffany's got a cold and Morgan is playing up...

-It's all right, Carol.

Don't worry about it. It's fine.

Honestly, the only person keeping me from a complete meltdown is Mas.

Sorry, you don't need to hear all that.

Is there anything I can do to help?

Oh...that's very nice of you but I don't think there is.

Really, go on.

Well, you could get them some food in.

I'll bring them something from the restaurant.

You know what? Hiding inside, deep down,

is a decent bloke trying to get out.

Right...

Is it safe?

I'm not in the mood, Michael.

Come on, Jack. It's gone on long enough, hasn't it?

You not talking to me, me not talking to you. It's boring.

What, you missing me, are you? That's very sweet.

I do miss you, Jack. I miss my friend.

I know Ronnie's getting out today.

So?

So...

..I know how it is with you.

I know how she messes with your head.

I know.

Why don't we just draw a line under everything, go to the pub,

have a beer?

You can blow off some steam.

-All right.

-Yeah.

-But not because I'm bothered, though.

-No. Course not.

I wish Ronnie all the best...

I just don't want anything to do with her, that's all.

There we go. Cheers, buddy. Nice one.

Alfie, look...I need to talk to you, all right.

Right now, before I change my mind, OK?

Yeah, OK. All right, Rox.

Trace, sweetie, can you just hold the fort for us?

OK, I know what you said about Ronnie on Friday

and I've thought about it. Like, constantly thought about it and I'm...

really sorry, Alfie, but I can't turn my back on her.

-Roxy, sweetheart, I never said you couldn't see her...

-I want her to come back here.

-Here?

-Not HERE, here.

Just, like, in the Square. Maybe she can stay with Phil?

But, Alfie, the point is, I want my sister close.

I'm not in denial...

..the complete opposite, actually. I've got my eyes wide open.

It's like she's quick sand...

..the nearer you get, the more you get sucked in.

And, of course, you can't see it happening because she's so...

anyway.

It's not just about her, it's about all the things she's bound up in.

You know, like Tommy...

Kat and Alfie...

..James.

You think about James a lot?

Weird...

..weird to miss someone that you never knew.

I never thought that until I had Scarlett. I get it now.

It's got to be rough.

You just keep going, don't you?

You've just got to keep looking forward.

That's why I know I'll never get back with Ronnie.

Good for you, Jack.

It bothers you, don't it?

-The fact that she's getting out?

-No.

What was it about her that got under your skin?

I don't know what you're talking about, Jack.

She said you were obsessed with her.

-Obsessed?

-Yeah.

That you tried to set her up

because you tried to get everyone round here convinced

-that she'd taken Tommy again. Why was that?

-Because...

people have short memories, Jack,

and they were beginning to forget.

They were beginning to feel sorry for her.

You had a problem with that, did you?

Why did you hate her so much?

AH! OK, I'm ashamed! All right? I'm ashamed! Happy now?!

That's an open admission, ain't it?! Mea Culpa.

She wasn't entirely blameless in all this, you know.

She knew exactly what she was doing! She plays the tragic victim.

Oh, the beautiful angelic face and we all fall for it...

but that's not the whole STORY! She's an arch-manipulator!

You just look in her eyes and you can see it.

You can see it, they're cold and they're cruel!

She don't care about nothing.

She don't care about nothing but herself.

Right.

Well, if you feel that way,

you might want to take a wide berth from the Vic tonight...

because Roxy is bringing Ronnie back to the Square.

Go and meet her, tell her about us,

pay for a hotel and figure out her next step.

-"Next step"?

-Yeah, well, she'll have to get a job...

and then get a flat somewhere.

"Somewhere"?

I know how important she is to you, Rox, she's your sister

and I'd never stop you from seeing her.

She can't live across the road.

So is that it? Is that just the end of the conversation?

Yeah.

Alfie, she's my sister.

OK, she's not some sort of monster.

You haven't got to be scared of her.

Alfie, she made a mistake...

..a terrible, terrible mistake, but...

..she's not a bad person.

You can't hate her for ever.

-SHOUTS:

-Don't tell me what I can and cannot feel!

How would you feel...if it was Amy?

Don't.

Why not?

Eh? Come on. Imagine.

If someone you knew snuck into your house,

somewhere you feel really safe...

and stole from you the most precious little baby

that you'd seen brought into this world.

Then imagine thinking that child had died...

..and every morning, you've got to fight just to get out of bed.

You fight just to put one foot in front of the other.

Then imagine being told, "Actually, your baby's not dead.

"Here's your baby...get on with it."

And you dare to do that, you dare to love that child again -

truly and deeply...

..then imagine being told that the person that put you through

that living hell is going to be living across the road...

and you're going to bump into this person in the street.

What are you going to talk about? The weather?

And all the time you're looking at this person...

..all you want to do is put your hands around their throat...

..and squeeze...

squeeze till there is nothing left.

You imagine that.

I...I just brought you this. It's from the restaurant.

It's chicken in a tarragon and mushroom sauce.

If you put it in the microwave for a couple of minutes

-and put some rice with it - last you a couple of nights.

-Why?

-Well, because the dish is deeper than it looks...

-No, no, Ian.

Why are you bringing me food?

Well, me and Max, we go way back. He was my best man once

and I'd just like to think, if the shoe was on the other foot...

Thanks.

I don't mean to sound ungrateful,

it's just the whole clan's descended and it's just doing my nut.

Ian?

Hi, Dot. I brought this round from the restaurant.

You are a sweet boy.

What a shock, eh?

Well, of course, everyone knows he's innocent

but, well, you know me, Ian, I ain't one to gossip

but I heard that someone said they saw him twiddling, fiddling,

you know, tinkering with that there car?

Well, they're lying.

Yes, well, I'll just go make a start on the bathroom.

I've finished in the kitchen...

No, no, there's no need. I've got it covered.

Besides Max'll be back soon and everything'll be back to normal.

-Is that right?

-Well, yeah.

As soon as Jack finds out who that lying scumbag of a witness is.

You're not really going, are you?

Got a ticket yesterday.

Where'd you get the money from?

Phil.

He gave it to you?

Yeah, right before he became a nun.

No, I nicked it.

-But that's breaking the law.

-Jean, I only took what was rightfully mine.

I snuck in his house the other day, right? In and out, easy as pie.

So, soon I'll be laying on a beach with the sun in my face.

Why Greece?

Why not? Fits all my criteria - it's nowhere near Walford.

Won't you miss it though?

I want to get out of this place like a shot.

Right, so that's it? You're off, no regrets...

-Yeah, one.

-Really?

That I don't get to rub it in Phil's fat face.

Any news on how the big man's doing?

Has your girlfriend banned you from talking to me?

-You're going to need factor 30, at least, and then there's the bite cream...

-Shut up.

-All I know is that Lola's gone to visit him this morning.

-Is only family allowed to visit?

Anyone apparently, so he must be on the mend, mustn't he?

That's good to hear.

Looks like you'll get your chance after all.

Carl? Carl?

Embarrassed to be seen with me earlier, now you want a chat? Can't keep up with you.

They're looking for the witness. Kirsty and Jack, they don't buy it. They think whoever it is, is lying.

You'll have to be well prepared then.

But what if they find out?

I can't do this kind of thing, OK? I can't handle the pressure.

You'll be fine.

But what happens next?

What happens if the police tell Kirsty who the witness is?

Will I still have to testify in court?

Because I don't think I'd be able to do it, I don't think I'm strong enough.

What are you trying to tell me, Ian?

How about we go back to me just owing you the money, OK?

I'll tell the police I made a mistake.

-"It was dark, I couldn't see, I didn't see who it was."

-No chance.

Oh, come on, Carl. Please, just be reasonable.

I don't think you understand how reasonable I've been.

Because, let me tell you,

Jack and Kirsty are the soft option compared to me

and what I'll do to you if you let me down.

Do you understand me?

Good.

All right?

-Yeah.

-Little heads-up. You know that conversation we were having?

Turns out your prognostications were well askew.

-What are you on about?

-Ronnie's coming back to the Square.

-Says who?

-Roxy. She told Jack this morning.

-So Ronnie's getting out?

-Five o'clock, by all accounts.

-What, she's coming here?

-Is the million dollar question.

Worth that much, is she?

Cheers.

Good job you're not bothered.

Ian? Darling, what is it? I got your text.

I've done something really stupid.

All right, darling, just calm down. Take a deep breath. What's happened?

It was me...OK?

-I told the police I saw Max, OK? I'm the witness.

-You?

-Yes.

You saw Max tampering with Carl's car? Why didn't you say anything?

Because I thought I could handle it. It's just eating away at me.

That's why you've been acting so strangely?

I'm a sad, pathetic human, that's all I am.

-Why?

-That poor family. Look what they're going through.

Ian, come on, you told the truth.

-That doesn't make you a bad person in my book.

-It's complicated.

OK, of course, right, you feel guilty...

but I think what you've done is incredibly brave.

Ian, come on. Come on, don't look so worried.

OK, darling, it's not going to be easy but you've got me, yeah?

I'm here and I'm going to back you every step of the way.

-You won't tell anyone?

-No. Course I won't. I won't.

Darling, I'm proud of you, yeah? Come here.

Big day today!

The reunion.

-You all right, Sharon?

-I'm not bitter.

I just need to know it's not going to be shoved in my face.

Look, it's over between me and Ronnie, all right?

-It's dead and buried.

-Is that right?

It must have been a ghost who ruined our wedding.

I'm looking forward to meeting her.

Roxy.

Is it true? Is she coming back here?

Because I need to know. I need to know what I'm facing.

-What you're facing?

-I can't just bump into her.

-I thought I could handle it and I can't.

-Well, you can relax, OK.

You can relax.

-Because you don't ever have to see my sister again.

-Why?

Because you all got what you wanted, didn't you?

What do you mean by that?

I'm not bringing her back here, am I?

In fact, I'm not even going to meet her, OK?

So are you SATISFIED now?

It's not fair, Alfie, it's not fair.

It's not fair on you, or Tommy, or Amy, or even Ron.

It's not fair.

Do you have to work tonight?

OK, how about me and you go out? Just the two of us, yeah?

So come on then, what was the latest Ian crisis

that meant that I had to step in and save the day?

Yes, it looks like you're having a really tough time over there(!)

Let me guess, there was a spider in the sink?

Or he wanted you to do up his shoelaces?

Oh, I know, I know, he wanted you to sew in his name into his shirt

so it wouldn't get mixed up with all the other boys.

-Oh, do shut up, Kim.

-Oh, I'm only having a laugh.

Well, occasionally, just occasionally, life can be serious.

I can do serious.

I can!

All right...

talk to me.

Right...

it's Ian...

..he's been under a lot of pressure recently

and I'm not really sure that he can deal with it.

It's not so long ago he had that breakdown, is it?

What kind of pressure?

Look, Dee, I'm your sister.

If you can't talk to me, who're you going to talk to?

He saw Max tampering with Carl's car.

Ian grassed up Max?

Hello, mate. Heard you were feeling better.

I'm serious about this, Kim, you can't tell anyone. Not even Patrick.

Listen, you've said it a million times - just chillax.

How am I supposed to do that? You couldn't keep your mouth shut if you fell down a sewer.

-Well, I'm going to prove you wrong this time.

-Really?

-Really.

-Good.

Because Ian's got enough problems without Kirsty and Jack on his back.

Why's that?

Did you see my lips move?

So Ian's the witness?

She's not coming back.

Roxy changed her mind.

So...Jack...

..neither of us will see her again.

What do you remember about the accident?

-Anything?

-What are you doing here?

One for release.

Ronnie.

Where's Roxy?

She's supposed to be here. I'm supposed to be meeting her.

I don't think she's coming.

-Why not?

-You'd have to ask to her.

Is she OK?

Yeah, she's fine.

Then she'll be here, then, won't she?

Ronnie.

I didn't come to have a go.

Why did you come, then?

Honestly?

I don't know.

Hospital beds, eh? Worse than sleeping rough.

What are you doing here?

-I feel bad.

-Is that right?

-Yeah.

Max was after me. Phil got caught up in it.

Max? So that's true?

It should be me lying there.

And yet here you are.

-Shirley, what do you want?

-It can wait.

NOISY SPARRING

PHONE VIBRATES

DOOR BURSTS OPEN

All right, love?

OK...

I didn't mean to. It was a mistake.

I was just trying to get Kim to be quiet and...

Then she was just standing there and I couldn't take it back...

What? Who was standing there?

-Kirsty.

-What have you done?

Ronnie, don't walk away from me. I haven't come for a fight.

He's nearly three now. He's a really lovely little boy.

He's kind, he shares his toys with other kids.

And he's really funny. He's a right little clown.

Got a picture here.

Roxy should really be here by now.

-He's beautiful.

-Ain't he?

What else? Oh, yeah. His favourite food is eggs and soldiers.

He likes to smash the egg on its head,

and I have to take the lid off cos he hates getting shell in his mouth.

-Why are you telling me all this?

-I don't know.

Cos you was his mum for three-and-a-half months,

106 days, if you're counting - cos I was.

I just thought you'd like to know how he was doing.

-I was never his mum, Kat.

-No?

Then who was? Cos it wasn't me.

I didn't get to cuddle him when he was crying,

I didn't get to bathe his little newborn body.

I wasn't there for him.

-You was.

-Please...

You thought I'd forgiven you?

So did I.

I must've blacked out. Don't remember much.

No?

Yeah, me neither, to be honest.

I'd better shoot off. It's good to see you on the mend, Phil.

I expect we'll see you back on the Square pretty soon?

-Not if these nurses get their way.

-Yeah. Like a prison, innit?

-If you need anything, let me know, yeah?

-Cheers.

Good to see you, Shirley.

What is he doing here, acting like a mate?

How did he get off so lightly?

-Must've been wearing his seatbelt.

-What, and you weren't?

Thought I was, but it's just one of them things you do, ain't it?

But you didn't?

Shirley, what is this?

What're you doing here? You come to have a go?

Get on with it, cos I'm a sitting duck here, ain't I?

-I need to change your dressing. Will you give us a moment?

-Yeah.

-What are you going to do?

-You need to go home.

-What? Why?

-Abi, please, please, just leave.

But I've only just got here!

I haven't got time to explain. Just go.

-Will I still get paid?

-Yes.

Oi! Come here!

I need a word with you! Ian!

Ian!

HAMMERING ON DOOR

Ian! I want a word with you!

Open this door now! I swear I am going to stay here.

I thought it didn't matter to me, you getting out.

But then Alfie kept going on about how scared he was

and I realised I was just kidding myself.

Did Roxy say why she wasn't coming?

Cos feelings, they don't really change, do they?

-Have you tried counselling?

-Counselling?

Yeah, I had some when I was inside. I thought it really helped.

Feelings - they hide away for so long that you think they're gone,

and then one day you're just bowling along, having a giggle

and this little voice whispers in your ear,

"You didn't see his first smile."

And it's like having your chest just ripped open all over again.

And no-one realises because you just carry on laughing,

but your heart is there on the floor just being trampled on.

I never said that before.

Weird, innit?

I shouldn't have come here.

-This is no good. This has made me feel worse...

-Look, I'm sorry.

I'm sorry.

The last thing I wanted to do was cause you any pain.

Look, I'm going to be gone soon, all right?

Me and Roxy, we're going to start up a business together,

we're going back to Ibiza.

What?

Nothing.

I did say she's not coming, though, didn't I?

What makes you so sure?

It's nothing to do with me.

What isn't?

-Please, Kat...

-I've got to go.

-Wait!

Can I borrow your phone?

She's my sister. I need to talk to her.

PHONE RINGS

What, Kat?

'Roxy?'

Hungry yet, darling?

'Rox? Roxy?'

All right. Who was that?

Voicemail. Hair appointment.

What're you talking about? Your hair looks lovely. You look gorgeous.

She cut me off.

Why would she do that? What's happened?

Please, Kat, I know I'm the last person that you want to tell

and, believe me, you're the last person that I want to ask,

but I'm in the dark here. I've got no choice.

Ain't it obvious?

She's chosen Alfie.

Alfie?

She didn't tell you?

Tell me what?

Why don't we talk about this somewhere else?

No! Tell me now.

Roxy and Alfie are getting married.

Have you got a moment?

MUFFLED THUMPING ON DOOR

It's not great news, I'm afraid...

Ian!

Lauren, are you listening to me?

Sorry, Sadie, I'll be back in a minute, yeah?

I'll camp out here all night if I have to, Ian.

Kirsty? What's happening?

Ask your mate.

Ask her why her dad's grassed yours up.

What? Ian's the witness?

What are you on about? That's not true.

No? Then why's he in there hiding from me, too scared to face me?

Ian!

HAMMERING ON DOOR

Oh, Ian, this is ridiculous.

Yeah, why are you hiding?

Look, is this about my dad?

He's not hiding anything.

Ian, will you open the damn door and talk to the woman? Or I will.

Ian, I'm just going to stay here, I swear. Get out here now!

All right, all right.

-Let's just talk about this in a calm and reasonable manner, yeah?

-Oi.

Get in!

-What have you done?

-I didn't mean to cause any trouble or anything,

-I just told the police what I saw, that was all.

-You liar!

What, Ian's the witness?

-No, Jack, Jack! What are you doing?

-Jack, stop it!

You are going to go to the station,

you're going to retract your statement and tell the truth.

-Jack, I'm telling the truth. You've got to believe me.

-He is.

I'm just telling the truth. I just told them what I saw

and it was Max, all right? It was Max.

Jack, why would I lie to you?

I do not need this stress.

I've got nothing against your family. But if you do not back off,

I will have you done for witness intimidation. I'm telling the truth.

Are you serious? Are you buying this?

Why's he going to tell a lie?

Maybe because someone blackmailed him?

Or maybe he's just a twisted psycho that gets off on all the attention.

Who's this one, calling you sick?

-Kirsty, back off.

-What, you believe it?

I don't know, but this ain't going to do Max any favours, is it?

Just going to get him in more trouble.

This ain't over.

All right, come on, girls. Come on.

Oi. You don't really think my dad could do this, do you?

Ian, I quit.

You OK?

-Sorry about that.

-Everything OK?

Not really.

What is it?

Just, I feel like the whole world is against us sometimes.

You think you can trust someone,

then you turn around and they stab you in the back.

Sorry. What was it that you wanted to talk about earlier?

Why don't we go out after work, have a cup of tea?

We can have a chat then.

Can't, sorry. Got my counselling session.

It's not going to be a problem, is it?

Cos I'm coping really well with it. It's just...

It will not affect my work, I promise.

I cheated. He kicked me out.

And Roxy and Alfie...

It didn't take too long.

I can't believe it.

Cos sometimes you just can't move past stuff.

What stuff?

When we thought we'd lost Tommy, we stopped talking.

Then when we got him back, we...

just didn't know how to start again.

We could turn it on for the punters,

but as soon as we were locked up, we were just like strangers.

-I'm so sorry...

-Don't be.

I had the affair. No-one forced me.

So how long have Roxy and Alfie been together?

No, don't tell me.

Was it Christmas?

Yeah, that makes sense. She stopped seeing me for a while.

She said she went to visit Auntie Peggy.

You angry with her?

No. No, I get it.

Roxy, she's...

She's like a big kid.

She needs to believe that the world is straightforward,

and that it makes sense.

If anything gets in the way of that, she just blocks it out.

It's like the time when I told her about my dad.

I told her about what he'd...

She didn't believe me.

Well, not at first, anyway.

That's your biggest fear, innit?

Being called a liar on top of everything else?

So you don't say anything for years,

and the poison just pumps round and round.

You feel like you're going crazy.

Kat...

Would it be all right if I looked at that photo again?

Maybe they would've been friends.

Tommy and James.

Maybe.

Yeah, maybe.

Just the man I want to see.

-Oh, yeah?

-Got a little job for you.

-Is that right?

-Yeah. I'm bringing in some cars.

You've just got to give them the once-over, fix some plates to them.

-Are they legit?

-What do you think?

I'm paying a lot of money.

I don't know, you know.

Stick to your pocket money, then.

Actually, no, no. We're in.

Does Amy live at the Vic too?

Yeah.

And does Jack see her much?

He's there sometimes when I drop Tommy off.

How is he, Jack, is he all right?

Why? Do you still think about him?

Occasionally.

I should go.

And what are you going to do?

-I don't know. Maybe I'll go to Ibiza on my own.

-Tonight?

Roxy was going to sort out the cash,

so I'll have to think of something else.

You've not got a mate you could call on?

A mate?

Someone you met inside?

I did share a cell with a woman. She was all right.

And then she found out what I was in for.

So I kept my head down after that.

How did you deal with it?

By making plans with Roxy, and counting the days until I got out.

Probably just as well I didn't know the truth.

Look, I'm sorry, this isn't your problem.

Don't worry about me. I'll find myself a hostel. Make a plan.

Do you know how much money they give you? £42.

"Treat yourself," the bloke said.

"What, like, buy myself a pair of shoes?" I said.

-"If you're anything like the wife," he said.

-Men, eh?

Don't worry. I'll get this.

Thank you.

Ronnie...

Come back to the Square with me.

I can't believe you're buying it.

Jack!

Kat went to meet Ronnie.

Kat? Why?

I don't know. Do you think she's going to be OK?

Bit late for that question, ain't it?

I'm going to speak to her. I'm going to find out where she is

-and I'm going to explain everything.

-You don't have to justify it.

I couldn't face her myself.

You ready? All right, Jack.

Right, see you later, girls. Call me if there's a crisis.

Jack.

What?

He's got to be lying.

But why would he stir trouble up just for the sake of it?

-Max is your own brother, you don't trust him?

-No, all I'm saying is,

sometimes people get backed into a corner, all right?

They do weird things. Maybe he's convinced himself it's the truth.

Oh, look, he's not mental.

You saw him kick off last week, didn't you?

Carl has got right inside his head, it's wound him right up.

Who knows what he's capable of?

It'd give you a chance to talk to Roxy properly.

-No, I can't.

-Yeah, you can. You can stay at mine.

-Yours?

-Yeah. Just for one night.

You haven't got to see anyone. You just lie low,

and get a decent night's kip.

Kat, why are you doing this?

I don't know. I don't get it either.

I suppose it's like when you're a kid

and you think there's something under the bed

and the more you think about it, the bigger and scarier it gets.

Then when you finally get the guts to have a look,

it's just a pair of old socks.

You're just a pair of old socks.

What about everyone else? Do they think the same?

What about Jack?

What about Alfie?

I can't answer that.

Are you coming or not?

Is he going to be all right?

Having a much-needed rest.

How was counselling?

Yeah, it was all right. A mate of mine didn't turn up, though.

Oh, well, you'll probably see her next time.

You've got a visitor.

Hi.

I'm sorry to call round in the evening,

but I couldn't let this drag on.

Drag on?

I feel really bad about this, Lauren,

but I'm going to have to let you go.

Is this about what happened earlier, me running off,

-because I swear that will not happen again.

-It's nothing to do with that.

Your private life is nothing to do with me.

The thing is...

I took you on as a favour to your dad.

What?

He's been subbing me.

And now he's in prison, and...

I feel awful, but I just can't afford to keep it up.

I'm sorry, sweetheart.

I just overheard. Are you OK?

I've been trying really, really hard, Abi.

But sometimes I want to pick up a bottle and drink and drink

until I just float away.

I can stay and help out if you like?

Look, I'm fine now. Honestly.

Alfie and Roxy are here, so I've given them menus.

Love, thanks for stepping in like this. I really appreciate it.

I'm proud of you, Dad. You've done the right thing.

See, at least some good has come out of all this, anyway.

I was thinking we could decorate the kids' rooms, you know,

make it a bit more girly for Amy,

maybe put up some princess wallpaper on one side...

You do know she's into monsters now, don't you?

OK, all right, we'll do some aliens with fangs.

Then when the time's right, we'll move Tommy's old cot in our room.

You still want that, yeah?

-I should have gone to meet her.

-I wouldn't have stopped you.

I know. I'm a coward.

Rox...

You know I couldn't face seeing her? I couldn't risk it.

Risk? What...?

Do you know what R&R stands for?

I can guess, yeah.

Yeah, Ronnie and Roxy, not the other way around. OK?

It's always been that way, and it always will be that way.

That's why I know if I'd gone to meet her,

I'd have just been sucked right back in.

R&R.

So you did the right thing.

-Here, mate. Cheers.

-Ta, love.

Ronnie?

All right?

Is there anyone about?

No, it's all right. Come on.

Hello?

Who do you live with?

Me.

Kathleen.

A word.

DOOR CLOSES

It's only for one night. Just till she gets her head straight.

Give her a chance to speak to Roxy.

Michael, she's got nothing. She's all on her own.

So? She stole our child!

Look, this was a mistake.

Michael is clearly not comfortable with me being here.

I am fine, Ronnie. It's you I worry about.

But if you can handle the looks and the whispers

and the grubby little asides, then fair play to you.

I'm just here to see Roxy. Then I'm going.

How can you be sure she wants to see you?

I'm not sure about anything.

Apart from the fact that I am not scared of you.

That... That's not what I'm trying to achieve here.

I know you, Michael.

I'm not sure you do. I'm redeemed.

I am, I'm a changed man. Aren't I, Kathleen?

I'm a dad now. I have a girl.

Scarlett.

Well, congratulations.

Thank you very much. It's great, isn't it? Being a parent.

Amazing. Really nourishing.

And now I get it, of course.

HE SNAPS HIS FINGERS

Why you did what you did.

The pain you must have felt...

..when James died.

Look, I'm sure Ronnie's really tired.

I admire you, you know. I really do. Coming back here.

Facing people - Jack, Sharon...

I'm not here for him.

The last thing I want to do is mess up his marriage.

-Bit late for that, darling.

-Sorry?

She didn't tell you that either?

Jack called it off. They broke up months ago.

It's a ticket to Greece.

I bought it with the money that I nicked from your safe.

Look at you.

You've ruined it.

How can it even be possible, eh?

After everything you've done to me...

..I still can't enjoy watching you suffer.

Ignore Michael. You know what he's like.

Settee OK for tonight?

Yeah, course.

I'll get you some bedding.

I heard you.

Well, I'm not giving it back.

I didn't mean that.

Keep it. Should have given it to you in the first place.

Shirl, I know that...

I know I can never make it up to you

and I know that you'll never forgive me,

but you're right. I do owe you.

What you saying this for?

I want you to be happy.

You deserve to be happy, don't you?

It's good to see you.

What are you doing here?

I wanted to see you.

Why? What do you want?

I know...

I know you didn't get married.

So what? I'm just supposed to throw my arms open to you, am I?

No. No, of course not.

-Jack, look, please...

-It's a mistake.

It was a mistake, you coming back.

No-one wants you here,

not even your own sister.

All right. Look what I've got here.

Some boiled eggs and dippy soldiers for my peroxide princess.

What's all this in aid of?

Come on, can't a fella spoil his fiancee

without getting the third degree?

Listen, Roxy, I know yesterday must have been difficult for you...

-Oh, Alfie, please don't...

-No, it must have been tough for you, and I just...

I just want to say thank you.

Thank you for putting me and Tommy first, all right?

Did you sleep well?

How long have you been sat there?

I like watching people sleeping.

I find it relaxing.

What were you dreaming about in there, I wonder?

Was it Roxy?

Jack?

Little Tommy?

Where's Kat?

She's putting her face on. She'll be a couple of days.

I did think about visiting you, you know.

SHE SIGHS

It can't have been easy.

Knowing everyone had turned their back on you.

I sympathise. I empathise.

I thought...

If anyone needs a friend, it's poor Ronnie.

But you know, life gets in the way...

Marriage...

Kids...

That sort of thing. You know how it is.

I've got a picture somewhere.

14 months now.

I need a shower.

Can I just ask you one question? Just the one.

I'm curious. Why did you come back?

It's clear nobody wants you here.

Roxy, she's not interested.

Kat's doing it out of some deeply misguided sense of pity.

So that just leaves...

..oh, yeah, Jack.

That's really moving, that "true love conquers all" thing.

What is a dead baby between two people that really love each other?

I'm sorry. That was insensitive of me.

It was.

I meant it with affection, though.

If Phil finds out, we're going to be in trouble.

He's not going to find out, is he?

As soon as we finish paying back that 10G,

we ain't got to worry about Carl no more, innit. Come on.

I suppose you've heard about Shirley?

Oh, yes, I shall be sorry to see her go.

I mean, I appreciate a straight-talker.

Even if she has got a bit of a mouth on her.

Seems like every time I get close to someone, they go and leave me.

What about that nice gentleman friend of yours?

-You know, what you're stepping out with?

-He's gone.

Gone where?

We're going to need these tea towels back by 3pm at the latest.

Have you heard anything of Ronnie?

That woman has no place here.

Hello?

-Can we help you?

-Where's Kat?

She hasn't come down yet.

I'm, er, I'm Joey, by the way.

-What, you a mate of Kat's, yeah?

-Uh...

Yeah. Yeah, something like that.

Yeah? All right, look, if you ever need anyone

to show you around or anything, just...

Joey! Sorry, you'll have to excuse my brother.

What?! I'm only being friendly, ain't I?

So, is this your first time in Walford?

It's nice round here.

Yeah. You never said your name.

-Oh...

-Her name's Rosie.

She's an old mate from school.

Ah. I was just telling Rosie how nice Walford is.

She's not stopping.

I can't believe that Ian Beale squealed to the cops.

It's a messy business, all right.

You want to keep that zipped. Dee is on the war path.

-I heard that.

-You know what?

You want to count yourself lucky they ain't sticking you

in witness protection.

Before you know it, you're dressed from head to toe in polyester

and living in Northampton.

This is all just one big joke to you, isn't it?

How is Ian?

Oh, well, apart from Jack Branning roughing him up, you mean.

Any chance of a cup of tea?

Kim. Sort him out, will you?

Where're you off to?

I'm going up to Oxford to see Libby later.

Safe trip.

Yeah, I thought it was about time I checked out her new flat.

Give her my love, all right?

And give her a big kiss from her Auntie Kim.

Well, me and you have to say our goodbyes now, then.

-So it's true, then?

-Well, there's nothing keeping me here.

You know what, Shirl? Despite you living like a pig,

I'm going to miss seeing that ugly mug of yours every day.

Come here, will you?

-What about Phil?

-What about Phil?

Does he know you're going today?

I don't need his blessing.

From what I've heard, he needs all the friends he can get.

Phil can take care of himself.

Jack...

Jack, you all right? Haven't you left something at Kat's?

-Kat's?

-Yeah. Goes by the name of Veronica.

-It's a turn up for the books, no?

-I'm late.

Come on, Jack, don't shut me out.

Least you can do is hear the poor girl out.

Look, I've told her what I think.

So you have seen her? That's interesting.

I take it a reconciliation's out of the question?

What is it with you?

-Do you fancy your chances again, do you?

-Don't be ridiculous.

I'm a caring man. I want her to be happy.

Then you tell her to leave Walford, all right?

Cos there's nothing for her here. Go on.

-How did you sleep?

-Yeah, fine.

What're you going to do now, then?

I just want to see Roxy and then I'm going to go.

Will you get her for me? Tell her to meet me here.

What am I supposed to say to her?

Just tell her I really need to see her.

DOORBELL RINGS

When did this become my problem?

Please, Kat.

KNOCK ON THE DOOR

All right, fine. But then you've really got to go.

-What do you want?

-Abi says you're in a bit of a mess.

No. We're fine as we are.

DOORBELL RINGS

Abi, can you go and get that?

Look, whether Max is guilty or not

don't mean I'm not going to help you.

Why don't we just forget about yesterday and concentrate on

sorting this lot out? DOOR SLAMS

It's Joey.

-You all right?

-Yeah.

Um...

There's a final demand for the gas in here, as well.

All right. What else do you owe?

We owe council tax and now we owe a month's rent to you.

You don't have to worry about that, do you?

There's a job going at McKlunky's.

Yeah, well, I don't want you serving all hours, with all them drunks.

-Yeah, but I want to help.

-Abi, look, your dad's got enough to worry about

without you messing up your final year.

Are you all right, Uncle Jack?

Yeah.

I've just got a lot on my plate.

Is this to do with Ronnie?

Right, are we here to sort this out, or what?

-Yeah.

-Yeah. Pass me the paperwork, then. Come on.

I just need you to look after him for a couple more hours, that's all.

-You all right?

-Yeah.

So why the big hurry to get rid of us?

I've got a delivery on the stall.

-You sure that's all it is, yeah?

-What else would it be?

Have you heard from Ronnie?

I'm the last person she'd want to speak to.

-But you'd tell me if you had, though, wouldn't you?

-Yeah.

Alfie, as far as I'm concerned, that part of our life is over, all right?

All right.

Come on, Tommy, let's go and play football.

Come on, I've got you. Good boy.

-Good job.

-Bye-bye, darling.

-Give Mummy a kiss goodbye, then.

-Love you! See you soon, yeah?

That's it. Hugs for Mummy.

-See you soon.

-Say bye-bye.

-Bye-bye!

-Bye.

I'm sorry.

I'm going to get Roxy over here,

and then you really need to go.

How long till your flight?

Eight hours, 34 minutes and 11 seconds.

Not that I'm counting or nothing.

-I was hoping that you might change your mind.

-What?

All them Greek fisherman waiting for me to help them with their rods?

-What about your friends?

-I haven't got any friends.

There's me.

What about Phil?

Phil's not a friend.

You still care about him, though, don't you?

Why is everybody banging on about Phil?

-We've been split up over a year.

-You will go and see him, won't you?

Before you go, I mean.

No.

I said everything that I had to say yesterday.

Look, I just want say a few goodbyes and get the hell out of here.

Jean, in a week's time,

Shirley Carter is going to be a distant memory.

No-one's going to miss this old lush.

Lola!

Lola?

You see?

Forgotten me already.

Didn't you hear me shouting?

Yeah, I heard you.

-Then why didn't you stop?

-Cos what's the point?

-This time tomorrow you're going to be sunning yourself in Greece.

-Yeah, but I'll keep in touch.

-Course you will.

-Look, once I'm settled,

-you and Lexi can come and visit me.

-No, thanks, I don't like flying.

Get on a boat, then.

Why're you doing this?

-Doing what?

-Pretending like you care.

Because I do care, Lola.

I don't know why I'm surprised, anyway.

Everyone lets you down at some point.

-Lola, please, look, all I'm doing is...

-You know what, Shirley?

Just leave me alone, all right? Get out. I don't want to hear it.

And do you know what?

Don't even think about coming to say goodbye to Lexi, all right?

Lola Pearce!

What a mean, nasty thing to say.

No, Dot, if she really cared, she wouldn't be leaving, would she?

What if she ain't got no other way?

Her best friend was murdered on her doorstep.

There are painful memories everywhere.

All that poor woman wants is to find some peace.

Who are you to stand in her way?

SHE GASPS

-My Demis Roussos album.

-Pardon?

I'm going to need Tzatziki and vine leaves.

-Do you think Denise would sell them?

-I don't know.

So much to do, and so few hours to do it in!

Ronnie's over at mine.

What, she's here on the Square?

-Does Alfie know?

-What do you think?!

OK. Erm...

-Hold on, how did she end up with you?

-It doesn't matter.

All that matters is she's over at mine and she's waiting for you.

-How is she?

-You'll find out for yourself soon enough.

She's all right, though, ain't she?

She's fine, considering she's just got out of nick!

-She's going to be angry with me, ain't she?

-She ain't.

Can we just get this over with?

What am I supposed do about Alfie?

It's not my problem, all right? I'm just the messenger.

-Kat, I made him a promise.

-OK.

What's more important? She's your sister.

-ALFIE:

-Hey, Peroxide!

I knew this was going to happen.

Don't you dare tell him she's over at mine, do you hear?

Do us a favour, love, keep your eye on Tommy for half an hour.

No, you can't.

She's your sister and she needs you.

Roxy?

I'll be right with you.

Are you all right?

You know, as a kid, I used to fantasise about being an only child.

What's she done now?

Do you know, I've had it up to here with her taking the Mick

-out of our relationship.

-Just ignore her.

Oh, really? That's easier said than done.

You don't have to live with her 24/7.

Sharon, Sharon?

What're the chances of getting a couple of extra shifts

-down the club?

-Oh, we're overstaffed as it is, Joey.

No, I know. I wouldn't ask if I wasn't desperate.

It's just Lauren and Abi are a little bit strapped for cash

at the minute, and I want to do something to help them, you know?

-I'll see what I can do, yeah?

-Thanks. Cheers.

-You all right, Ian?

-Yeah.

You broken up any more families recently?

Ignore him.

I used to think you were all right, you know.

Used to think you were a bit of a muppet, of course, but...

at least you were straight. At least you were honest.

-He's telling the truth.

-I wasn't talking to you,

-I was talking to him.

-I think it's time to go, Joey.

You know what? I've had it up to here with you Brannings

pushing people around. You're barred, the whole lot of you.

-Do me a favour.

-So get out. Go on.

-Thank you.

-Who does he think he is, talking to you like that?

Do you know what, there is a solution to your little problem

-with Kim.

-Oh, I get to stitch her mouth up?

That would work, but... Move in with me.

Eh?

Oh, move in with you!?

Yeah. Why not?

Yeah...

Be-be...

Mmm...

Well, because, it's...

It's just...

I've... You know what, I've really got to get a move on

because I've got to get that train, at one, to Oxford, so...

Sorry.

-Have a think about it.

-I will, yeah.

Hard at it?

I thought you'd gone.

You ain't going to give me a hard time an' all, are you?

Listen, it's your life, Shirl. But now you come to mention it...

Don't you dare.

Are you going to miss me?

Nah.

Course I'm going to miss you.

I don't mean to break up this teary little goodbye,

but we've got some cars that need finishing by lunchtime, yeah?

Since when have you two been so conscientious?

What're you doing with the plates?

Just leave it, will you?

Maybe I'll give Phil a ring in hospital, then you can explain.

Be my guest.

-Go on, then.

-No, you're all right.

Well, if you're finished, we've got work to do.

Should imagine that makes a change to the usual slop

you've grown accustomed to.

Thank you.

What for?

Well, for devoting all this time to me

when you have a wife and child at home.

Oh, no, that's right.

Janine saw through you as well, didn't she?

You can play games all you like.

I didn't want you then.

And I certainly don't want you now.

Did you find her? Is she coming?

No, I'm sorry.

-That's got to hurt, right?

-Oh, Michael, go and do one.

She's just worried about upsetting Alfie, that's all.

Right, I should go.

Just give her a few weeks.

Forward me your number when you're settled and I'll pass it on to her.

-No, there's no need.

-But you will sort it out?

Thank you.

-What have I done?

-More than you know.

Jean!

Jean, I need you to look after Tommy for five minutes, OK?

No, no, no, I've got a feta cheese souffle at a very delicate...

Sorry!

Whoops! I'm so sorry.

I should've been looking where I was going.

Hey, are you OK?

You lost someone?

You all right?

If it's a service wash you're wanting, I'm overwhelmed,

you'll have to come back tomorrow.

Ronnie.

I didn't know where else to go.

Come on.

-I take it those cars were nicked?

-Sshh! Keep it down, will you?

And there's me thinking you had your head screwed on.

Well, he didn't give us much choice.

Oh, I wonder what's going to happen when Phil finds out.

Yeah, well, he's the reason we're doing this.

-Oh, pull the other one.

-Look, how else are we going to pay him back?

-By avoiding a stint in prison.

-Look, it's not going to come to that.

Oh, you know that for sure, do you?

Look, all we're doing is switching a few plates, innit.

-It's not a big deal.

-I wonder what Mummy would say when she finds out.

-Come on, Shirl, man. You can't. Please.

-You're pathetic.

Giving it the big "I am." You're just a pair of kids.

I ain't a kid.

Then prove it.

It's brave of you, Ronnie. To come back here.

Stupid, more like.

You followed your heart. And it led you home.

I don't have a home. Not any more.

So what you going to do?

Turn around and go all the way back after coming all the way here?

Roxy doesn't want to see me.

Then make her.

I fell out with my half-sister, Rose. Over 40 years ago.

All the years we wasted... All that time we'll never get back.

You've got to fight for her.

I can't.

But you're here.

That's half the battle.

"God give us the spirit not of fear,

"but of power and love."

That's the second of Timothy, chapter one, verse seven.

Come on, let's go and find her.

They done yet?

With an hour to spare.

Just as well, cos there's three more coming in later.

-No, there ain't.

-Bruv...