30/06/2013 EastEnders Omnibus

-That's gorgeous, Abi.

-Lola helped me choose it.

Yeah? Who helped you pay for it?

-Dad.

-THEY LAUGH

You don't think it's too much?

No, one thing about Branning women, never too much. Never.

-And Lauren's definitely coming over?

-Should be here in a bit.

-And she's invited everyone?

-Everyone.

-OK.

Definitely, except Beyonce, she's off the guest list.

I thought just close friends and family, really.

Probably best, isn't it? For Lauren. Still be fun though.

Go on, go and make yourself look even beautiful,

and I'll ferret out that sister of yours.

Lola... Yeah, it's me. It's arrived!

Oh, good! Can't wait to see it...

Yeah, I'm with 'em. I'll ask. One sec...

Abi wants to know if you two are dressing up?

Oh, yeah, boob tube and stilettos for me.

I think Jay's going to wear the all-in-one.

Makes his figure look nice. You know, bum and that?!

Ignore him, Abi. That's Dex, thinking he's funny...

Yeah, don't worry, I'll tell him. Laters!

-No booze, remember!

-You serious?

-Yes.

Orders from the birthday girl as well,

-you two are wearing shirt and shoes.

-Sorry?

As if sitting in Abi's front room, around a bunch of

geriatric relatives, sober as a judge, ain't bad enough!

Excuse me, I plan on hitting the town later on

and if I can't get in cos you two idiots are wearing trainers,

I ain't going to be happy. OK? Shoes.

Thank you... Get your stuff. Let's go.

I don't know who died and made her the Queen of Sheba...

CHATTERING FADES

What's this, a new Olympic sport, running away from the husband?

-I've got to get ready for work.

-You seen him?

-Who?

-Prince Charles(!) Who do you think?

Not since last night. And I told you,

he's not worth worrying about.

I might believe you, if you'd been straight with me from the off.

He hijacked me, I barely had time to process it before I saw you.

And anyway, he's history now.

I don't believe this.

Don't rise.

What does he want?

How should I know?

He's your ex, you must've had some sort of conversation with him.

You're acting as though I just invited him here.

Maybe it's you he's after,

you weren't exactly friendly with his brother.

Yes, Tan?

-Looking for Lauren.

-Right.

-Our daughter?

-Yeah. Come up.

-How did last night go?

-How should I know?

Didn't you see her this morning?

No, cos I left early. I didn't want to wake her up.

Run a tight ship, I see(!) KNOCKING

Lauren?

Did she even sleep here?

-Yeah, well, I thought she did.

-Didn't you hear her come in?

-No, cos I'm a heavy sleeper. You know that.

-What about you?

-I don't think so.

-Peter Beale. So much for just friends!

Do you think?

-I'll pop round.

-Go easy on him.

He's a nice lad, isn't he? Might be good for her.

Tell her to come and help me with the decorations.

Message for Abs - tell her I'll be there after my shift at 8:00.

Great. Dust off the red carpet, shall I?

-Have you checked your bank statement lately?

-No, why?

No reason.

We'll talk later.

-Tan!

-All right?

-Good. How you doing?

-OK.

-What time's it kicking off tonight?

-About six-ish.

-I'll bring a bottle, then.

Only if it's a bottle of pop. It's officially a booze-free zone.

-Oh, right. Whose idea was that?

-Lauren's.

-Very good.

-Mm.

-See you then.

-See you later.

-Tanya! Tanya!

-Joey.

Will you say happy birthday to Abi for me, yeah?

-You know you're not invited?

-Didn't say I was coming, did I?

-I don't want any drama.

-Fine by me. How is, erm, Lauren?

-Is she all right?

-She's not your concern any more.

-Where is she, Peter?

-Who?

-Lauren.

-I don't understand.

Yeah, yeah. Good one.

-Lauren!

-She's not here.

-Look, you ain't in trouble.

I just want to make sure she's OK.

I'm not lying to you. Last night didn't go so well.

What do you mean? She weren't drinking, was she?

Don't give him a hard time. It's not his fault Lauren isn't interested.

-Right, so where is she?

-Well, we all ended up in the R&R

and then she bailed early, went to go and meet some mates.

-Which mates?

-I don't know. Friends from college.

Which friends from college? She ain't been in ages.

She texted me and said she'd got there, so what's the big deal?

Right, and how come she ain't answering her phone now, then?

A 19-year-old screening her dad's calls?

As far as mysteries go, that's right up there with Roswell(!)

That true?

-What really happened?

-I don't know, I wasn't keeping tabs.

Anyway, she's done this before, she's going to be fine.

-You don't know that.

-She's going to thank me

that I didn't land her in it with her dad.

Look, if you're that worried, I'll call her. OK?

Lauren, it's me.

Look, everyone's really worried about you,

so can you just call me when you get this?

PHONE BEEPS

Excuse me, can we do something about this rubbish, please?

The market's open late this week and, weirdly,

rats aren't a big selling point!

Busy, then?

How's that brother of yours?

-He's well, thanks. And yours?

-Yeah, he's good. Fighting fit.

-Got a lot of family round here?

-Yeah. It's my manor, innit?

Plus your ex-wife, kids. Must get complicated.

It's funny, innit? Exes don't worry me and Kirsty.

She's got better at it, then?

She used to be a terrible liar.

Anyway, nice speaking to you.

Cheers.

-So, um, your ex, what does he want?

-How should I know?

-You all right?

-Oh, yeah, totally flippin' marvellous(!)

You know I'm a love machine, Peroxide!

I'm a love machine, all right, girl? And I could get used to that.

-Yeah, well, I hope you're up for round two later!

-Oh, yes.

They should wear a sign - at it like rabbits.

Sickening, innit?

You and Max ain't, then?

Due on. The one thing my body knows how to do like flamin' clockwork.

-Saw you were empty.

-Is it the way I look?

What?

My face, is it gullible? Or is it my voice?

Or is it just my general doormatty sort of attitude?

You're funny.

Why did you say you'd met me before?

-Truth is, that girl with the red hair and the attitude...

-Kat?

Yeah. She frightened the life out of me.

There she was, yapping in my face, so I did what any bloke would do,

trapped in a corner, I threw her a bone.

Plus, Alice, I wanted to meet you.

You never actually told me how you and my dad became friends.

Mind if I...?

You're going to laugh at this.

Your dad gave me a black eye.

-I said "friends".

-I deserved it.

I was cheating on a game of black jack. He called me up on it.

After that, we set up a scam together.

Took 200 quid off one of the screws.

He didn't have a clue.

Truth is, behind all the dodgy deals and scams,

your dad had a heart of gold.

He used to look out for me.

There was one guy, scary fella, he had it in for me.

Must've looked at him funny or something,

but your dad weren't scared of him.

He stuck his neck out for me, stopped me from getting a hiding.

I said after that, to thank him, I'd bring him something

from the outside world, you know, cigarettes, booze...

You'll never guess what he asked for!

-Pickled herring?

-THEY LAUGH

What college mates? She hasn't got any college mates.

Well, why isn't she answering her phone, then?

She checks it every five minutes normally, doesn't she?

I wish you'd rung me, actually, sooner...

OK. I've got to go, then. All right, bye. Bye.

-There we are, look.

-Where's Lauren?

She's just running a few last-minute errands.

-How did it go with Peter?

-I don't know.

You know what your sister's like!

Yeah, I remember when I was little, wishing she was...different.

That she'd suddenly wake up one morning and be, like,

let's talk about animals and dresses and plait each other's hair.

Me and Rainie never had much in common, actually.

But I still love her, though.

I mean, she'll be all right, won't she?

-Yes, of course she will.

-Yeah.

I've got to nip out, darlin'.

OK? I won't be long, so...you carry on.

-I'm jealous. I'd love to have a big family round me.

-Yeah, it is nice.

-Most of the time.

-You know your Uncle Max is with an ex of mine?

Kirsty, really?

There's no hard feelings. It's just funny,

Derek said he was a bit of a player. I don't mean anything by that.

I'm just still a bit protective of her.

He's got a whole other family, hasn't he?

And from what I've seen, it ain't all peace and love.

-Hardly surprising.

-Oh, yeah? Why's that?

Sorry, it's none of my business.

No, it's fine. It's common knowledge, really.

Uncle Max and Tanya were going to get married, for the second time,

and then Kirsty showed up.

Alice?

This is my infamous brother, Joey. Joey, this is Carl. He knew Dad.

Oh, right. Speaks volumes.

Yeah. I've heard a lot about you.

-Mm.

-Listen, I need to get going. I've been here ages.

-That's for the tea.

-Hey, don't insult me.

-Thank you. See you soon!

-See ya.

I don't know what your game is, mate,

but make sure you leave my sister out of it. Do you understand me?

Your dad was right about you.

Yeah? Meaning?

He said you'd be a good-looking lad. He was very proud.

You remind me of him. Looks aside.

Hmm!

What?

Nothing. I was just wondering how long, you know,

-it took you to get pregnant?

-Oh, I dunno. It just happened.

So it wasn't planned?

Typical, innit? It's always the way.

You don't want to get pregnant,

all you've got to do is look at a bloke and, hey presto.

And then you do and it's the right guy, and it's the right time,

and suddenly, it's like it's going to take a miracle.

Not that I'm worried. I mean, me and Alfie have barely even started.

-All right?

-Yeah. All right? Just looking for Lauren.

-She ain't answering her phone.

-It's probably on silent.

Nah, Tanya's right. She's always got it glued to her hand.

I'll see you later.

If you're going to have another go, Tanya, I ain't got time.

-I've got to get ready for work.

-No, wait, this is important.

Earlier, you were asking me about Lauren. Why was that?

Were you out with her last night?

Yeah. I might have seen her. Why?

Well, talk to me... Look, she's not answering her phone,

I'm starting to get a bit worried here. Did something happen, or...?

Yeah, she was drinking.

PHONE RINGS It's not mine, it's not mine.

-Hello?

-Who's that?

-It's the Assistant Market Inspector.

-Who?

'I just found this phone in a bag'

outside a club called R&R in Walford.

Right. Where's Lauren?

Is that the owner of the phone?

Yeah, Lauren. Lauren Branning.

Is that Max?

Who's that, Tamwar?

-He was no Bobby Moore, was he?

-One word, mate - Hoddle!

Hoddle! No, this is a Hammers pub. There you go.

Good timing. What you having?

A drink. On my own.

Very sensible. Something tells me that ain't your style.

Let me guess, V and T?

-Something tells me you're trouble.

-Double? Get the lady a double.

No, mate, that's not what she said.

I can speak for myself, thank you, Alfie.

I'll have a white wine, large.

And one drink doesn't make us friends.

Large wine for the lady.

-You should've been looking out for her!

-I thought I was

making things worse. I can't get involved with her no more, Tanya,

-you know that.

-Max! Max! She was drunk.

Apparently, she was drinking she's just disappeared...

-What are you doing with that?

-Tamwar found it.

-Where?

-Just outside R&R.

Look, it's got her phone in it and everything.

But Lucy said, she said she texted her.

Whoa, sweetheart, someone pregnant shouldn't be carrying this load.

-Here, come on.

-I'm fine.

I'm sorry, it's just...

No, you look great. You don't look like you're pregnant.

You've got the old abs of steel going on there.

Let's talk about YOUR anatomy, shall we, Alfie?

-What are you, six months gone?

-Let me tell you something, Kathleen,

there's a six pack trying to fight its way out here. All right?

SHE LAUGHS

All right!

It's fine. Steak and kidney?

Oh... I'm... I'm sorry.

Are you OK?

Erm... Can I take my break now?

Yeah, of course you can, sweetheart.

-KNOCKING

-Peter! Lucy!

-Just go home.

-No, I'll help find her.

I'll just sack off work. Just tell me what to do.

Do what she said - go home!

Come on, Lucy, it's only us! Please, we just want to talk to you!

You shouldn't have lied.

Well, you could've told him about her drinking.

KNOCKING CONTINUES

Look, it is not our fault Lauren's gone off on a bender.

Text you, did she? Funny that, innit?

Cos we founds her phone outside R&R.

You were having a go at Peter and it wasn't his fault.

What you talking about, ain't his fault?

He was meant to look after her! What did I tell you

-about letting her have a drink?

-What did you expect?

-Lauren's out of control, no-one could stop her.

-He's right.

If she wants to act like a slapper, that's her choice, she's not a kid!

-What are you talking about? She ain't a slapper!

-All right.

Calm down! Listen to me, Lucy.

My daughter - that's my little girl -

she doesn't know what she's doing. She's ill. She's vulnerable.

That's why she needed her friends.

So what are we saying here, she went off with someone?

-I don't know.

-Lucy, what happened?

Yes, she met a bloke, but I didn't even see him properly, I swear.

-Right, that's it. Come on, come on.

-What?! What're you doing?

-Hey, come on.

-Get your hands off me!

We're going to the police station. You can tell them

-everything you know.

-All right.

I thought Lauren said she was going to be here at six.

-She did.

-Always first at a party, me.

Mind you, I shan't stop late. I've got to get up early,

what, with me work, I've got me church warden duties,

-and the vicar, he relies on me.

-DOOR OPENS

Mum?

Not really going to make me drink this, are you?

Wait there, all right? By that motor.

-Let me get my car keys.

-Tan, is Abi at yours?

Yeah. Yeah, she is.

Go on, go home, no need to worry Abi, is there?

-No, I want to come.

-Babe, there's nothing you can do, is there?

I've got it under control.

Max, what if something's happened to her?

-That man, he could be anyone, couldn't he?

-Tan, she'll be fine.

She'll be fine. Probably on her way back here now.

I'm just covering all the angles, ain't I?

If I get any news, I'll call you, OK?

Trust me. She'll turn up, she'll be hung-over.

She'll be wondering what all the fuss was about... I promise.

Take that.

-All right, babe? Lauren's gone missing.

-What?

She went off with some geezer, left her bag in the street,

-no-one's heard from her since. Have you seen my car keys?

-No.

I'm so sorry, Max.

-I've got to go to the police station, report her missing.

-Mm-hm.

You been drinking?

-What? No...

-Come here.

-HE SNIFFS

-Yes, you have. Smells like whisky.

-It was just a sip.

-What're you talking about?

A sip, babe? You're pregnant!

-I'm sorry, it was just a moment of madness.

-What's the matter with you?

My daughter's got a drink problem, she's gone missing,

and you're sitting here drinking whisky?! You're not giving

any thought to our baby, are you? It's unbelievable!

-I'm sorry, Max.

-Seriously, Kirsty, what chance is

that kid going to have?

LOUD MUSIC AND CHATTER

-ABI:

-Mum, is that you?

Yes, love!

Where have you been?

You look gorgeous!

-Jay said that he saw Lucy getting into Dad's car.

-Yeah?

Yeah, he needed to go and pick up some paperwork.

-Lucy wanted a lift or something, so...

-Where's Lauren?

She's on her way. She's on her way. Hello, Dot.

What aren't you telling me?

KNOCK ON DOOR Nothing.

-Hello.

-You all right?

Here she is, the birthday girl, looking like a film star, no less.

Now, I remember when she used to play Pass The Parcel, don't you?

Go and get Jack a drink, I'll go and get changed.

What is it? What's happened?

He was so angry, the way he looked at me...

Max, you told him?

No, he caught me drinking. He said the baby don't stand a chance.

-There is no baby!

-I know! I ain't completely losing it.

Well, I might be, the amount of times I've told you

to just come clean! Yes, he'll be angry, and you might split up,

but you stand more chance of making it if you tell him the truth.

I know... I will. Once I'm pregnant.

Right. So what're you going to tell him?

Maybe that... Maybe that I lost it. The first one.

Maybe I was too cut up about it... I dunno.

You need to sort this out,

because you're going to come seriously unstuck!

-What's wrong?

-Nothing.

You can't fool me, Kirst, I know you inside out.

Yeah, but not any more.

-Tanya, isn't it, his ex?

-So?

That's the thing with chemistry, innit? Never goes away, that spark.

No-one else stands a chance.

You don't know what you're talking about.

You're hurting. I can see it in your eyes.

You're wrong.

All right. Fair enough.

Hey, you're enjoying this for now, but I'm a patient man,

and you will come back to me, eventually. We both know that.

-She's not coming, is she?

-Yes, of course she is.

-Then why are you acting so weird?

-I'm not.

-Mum!

-Abi, she will be here. All right?

-Have you spoken to her?

Shall I get the cake ready? You know, light the candles?

-Yes, great. Good idea, Dot.

-Mum, I asked you a question.

-Don't tell me, Lauren again?

-Not now, Mum.

Oh, right. Is she drunk? Is she over at Dad's?

-Has something happened?

-Shall we open the presents?

No, no, no. Why did Dad go off with Lucy? Has something happened?

-No, nothing has happened.

-Is she OK? Mum, where is she?

I don't know. All right? I don't...

I don't know where she is.

What do you mean, you don't know? How...

DOOR SLAMS

Oh, Lauren! Oh, thank God!

I've been worried sick. Oh, thank God!

Are you all right? Where have you been?

What's wrong with your eyes?

Where is she?

What's happened, Lauren? Lauren...

Happy Birthday, Abi.

What's happened, Lauren?

I haven't got you a present, but I'm going to get you one.

-She don't look right, man.

-Shh!

-Why is your skin that colour?

She needs to see a doctor.

Mum, call an ambulance, please.

No, I don't need an ambulance, I need a drink!

It's all right, Oscar. Just thirsty.

Excuse me.

- Where's all the drink gone? - Come and sit down.

-No, I don't need to sit down!

-SHE MOANS IN PAIN

It's all right. It's all right, darlin'.

Do you need to be sick? Do you want some water?

-Sit her down.

-Come and sit down.

-What's happening to her?

I don't know... Just take deep breaths.

Call your dad. Call your dad.

-Ambulance is on its way.

-How long? How long?

-How long?

I don't need an ambulance, I need a drink, Mum!

-They'll be here as soon as they can.

-We can't just wait.

-We've got to do something!

-Lauren, come on.

We'll take you in the car.

-Up you get.

-I don't think that's a good idea.

Them paramedics, they know what they're doing.

Dot, look at her! Look at the state of her!

-We can't just wait.

-Come on.

-All right, darlin', I've got you.

They're only joking. Good boy.

-Let's go and have a nice biscuit or something.

-Dex...

There you go. Keys.

LAUREN CRIES OUT

You OK? All right.

Just go forward. Nice and slowly. Nice and slowly.

Nice and slow... That's it.

-Oh! Have you got her? She's going.

-I've got her.

Just sit there. You wait there, I'll get the car.

What's happened, Tan?

Is she all right?

Mum... Mum...

SHE MOANS

Mum, I'm scared!

OK.

I've got you.

Mummy's got you. Shh...

SIRENS APPROACH

It's all right.

It's all right.

Why haven't we heard any more? Been ages, hasn't it?

Feel like we've been forgotten.

PHONE RINGS

Any news?

I didn't sleep.

Been thinking about you. About Lauren.

They're doing tests, ain't they.

No, we don't know any more than that.

Call me if you hear anything.

Max, I...

DIAL TONE BEEPS

We've done all we can for her in A&E.

There's space on the liver ward now, so she'll be moved there shortly.

What's wrong with her?

The consultant there will be able to give you more details.

I'm sorry, that's all I know.

She's in good hands.

DOOR BELL RINGS

DOOR BELL RINGS

KNOCK AT DOOR

LETTERBOX RATTLES

Kirsty's just worried about her, that's all.

Poor Kirsty.

Maybe you should go home and comfort her.

-Don't.

-What?

I'm trying my best.

If we're going to be like that, there's plenty I could mention.

Oh, yeah? Like what?

There's got to be a reason Lauren wanted to come and live with me

and Kirsty in the first place, ain't there?

Lauren, darling. How're you feeling?

How's Abi?

She's fine. She's fine. It's you that we're worried about.

I ruined her party, I didn't even get her a present.

Ssh. That's not important now.

You won't leave me, will you?

I'm not going anywhere.

Neither am I.

Apparently she was completely yellow.

What? Like Homer Simpson?

AJ. That's Carol's niece we're talking about.

D'oh!

Makes you think, doesn't it, what you put in your body.

Yeah. Totally, man.

-What?

-Wow. Sorry, no, I just didn't realise

this was what a temple looks like.

Yeah, but everything in moderation, all right?

Tell me the last time you had a bit of salad.

And the bit of lettuce inside the kebab does not count.

You can talk. I'm surprised you don't have scurvy,

with the amount of fresh food that's passed your lips.

You're just jealous of my naturally-fast metabolism. Look at that.

It's what's inside that counts.

My heart is a sprightly pony.

Yeah, my heart is like a racehorse.

Your heart is like a carthorse! Let's have a bet -

I bet you can't run for ten minutes without keeling over.

Ten minutes? Don't make me laugh.

Yeah, give us a proper challenge.

A proper challenge? OK.

All right. You have to run for as long as it takes

to burn off that lot.

I'm game if you are, soldier?

Yeah, yeah, let's have this. To infinity and beyond.

What?

Buzz Lightyear. Never mind.

I got you a coffee. Thought you could do with it this morning.

I found this on your doorstep.

Kirsty, I'm worried about you, you know, what with the Lauren thing.

How is she?

They're doing tests or something.

If you need a chat, just come to mine later.

What, so you can tell me how mad I am again?

This is my mess. I need to sort it out myself.

See you later.

Do you want some water or something, darling?

Are you hot, darling? You feel a bit cold?

-Lauren Branning?

-Yeah.

My name's Liz, I'm a consultant hepatologist.

A liver specialist.

Are you happy for your parents to stay while I talk to you?

Yeah, course she is.

Lauren?

You have acute hepatitis, which we think is caused by drinking.

And what's that mean, exactly?

Inflammation of the liver.

She's in a lot of pain. Is there something you can give her?

We're doing our best to control that for you, Lauren,

but when the liver's been damaged,

it can struggle to break down the painkillers.

Damaged?

What do you mean? She's going to get better, isn't she?

We'll know more once Lauren's had an ultrasound scan.

Andy here's going to take you. Don't worry, he's a safe driver.

Right, well, I'd better come with you.

I thought it would be an opportunity to talk to you both,

get an idea about Lauren's history. I'll be back in a minute.

She's my beautiful, clever, funny little girl.

How did she end up here?

I remember my Nick's eyes going that colour. That yellow.

She ain't a drug addict, Dot.

I ain't saying she is. Far from it.

I'm only saying it's brought it all back, that's all.

You know, it was such a shock.

Same as your Rainie, I suppose?

Well, it's an addiction, ain't it, alcohol?

Might be legal - don't mean it don't do no damage.

My granddaughter is seriously ill in hospital.

We don't need a lecture to boot.

Besides, everybody likes a drink. Even you.

Oh, but mine is medicinal.

Not the same as you Cross women.

What exactly is it you're trying to say? Because you're upsetting Abi.

I was just saying.

I wasn't judging, Abi.

What I mean is that Lauren will need all our support,

the love of her family round her to help her to fight it.

Oh!

Oh, my Lord.

Now look what you've done.

DOOR CLOSES

I tried to stay away,

but I couldn't just sit at home doing nothing, could I?

How is she?

Joey, if you really cared about her, you wouldn't let her get smashed

out of her head in R&Rs, would you?

She's having an ultrasound.

We'll let you know if we hear anything.

I know it's hard, but...

..the best thing you can do is wait at home.

Well, if anything happens...

Yeah.

Right, according to this chart, your breakfast consisted of 700 calories.

What?

You're having a giraffe, ain't ya?

No, I'm not. Right.

Bread, toasted with butter, 150 calories.

Baked beans, 150 calories. Two fried eggs, 150.

Two sausages, 200.

-Tea...

-Tea? There's no calories in tea!

There are if you put two sugars in.

Thank you. Sugar. Shall I go on?

Come on, Peroxide, listen, what's the damage? How long we got to do?

OK. Hold on. You ready?

Hour and a half.

No!

All right, fine. Look, just admit that you're not that fit

and you can start a gradual training programme.

Nah, bruv, that's for old folks like you.

Us younger, leaner machines, we can go any distance, any time.

-Right, Alfie?

-Absolutely.

What was that thing about infinity?

Infinity and beyond. Beyond! Let's go, let's go!

-Woo!

-Come on! All right, girls?

Do you reckon they're going to do it?

Well, they could say anything. How would we know?

This is a very good point.

BOTH: Unless...

Before we start, can I just ask you something?

Should Lauren even be on this ward?

Excuse me?

Well, it's just clearly for people who've been drinking for years,

isn't it?

The woman in her room looks the same age as my mum.

Lauren is an alcoholic with serious liver damage.

This is the best place for her.

So, Lauren's drinking. How long would you say it's been a problem?

A year?

Two?

Ain't been that long.

She's been clubbing for longer, hasn't she?

Just normal teenage stuff.

Did Lauren consider binge drinking normal?

No.

Maybe.

Um, I don't know.

She just liked going out with her mates and having a laugh.

Drinking to extremes is rarely about having fun.

No. I... Yeah, I didn't mean that. I just mean that's when it started,

and then it was when I got my diagnosis - I had cancer...

That's when it started to get worse.

Did it?

You weren't aware of her drinking?

No. I wasn't living at home at that point.

But I did think it'd started to get better, you know?

But then, recently...

Yeah.

That's when it got really out of hand.

Recently?

Last couple of months.

Yeah. January?

Just after you left.

You left?

Yeah. Me and Max separated. And I needed a bit of time away.

So Lauren doesn't live with you both?

No, she lives with me.

Well, no, wouldn't call it living, really...

Well, it's where she sleeps.

On a mattress, in the room you're decorating for your unborn baby?

Max has married someone else, and they're expecting a baby...

We haven't actually finalised living arrangements.

She'll be coming home with me.

We ain't discussed that.

We don't need to.

Can we get back to Lauren's drinking?

When you said it got out of hand, what level are you talking about?

She was drunk a lot.

In the mornings?

Maybe.

Has she ever had any violent episodes?

Yeah.

Lucy.

I know we must seem a little bit chaotic,

but obviously we both just want what's best for our daughter.

Of course you do.

Which is why we should think about all the options

for Lauren's recovery.

What's that mean?

Lauren is going to need a stable, supportive environment

to have the best chance of getting better.

Perhaps it's worth considering if either of your homes can offer that.

We done?

-Yes.

-Cheers.

Thank you.

Where does she get off, saying we can't look after her?

She's just trying to make us understand how serious this is.

Well, we ain't stupid, though, are we? Supportive environment?

As if we can't provide that?

I mean, I know we've had our problems,

-but we can always put them to one side, can't we?

-Can we?

Yeah. Course.

Tan, when Lauren went missing yesterday,

I know exactly what you were feeling.

Sick to your stomach, like you were looking into a big black hole,

cos I was feeling exactly the same.

It don't matter, Tan. It don't matter what happens between us,

we'll always share that love of our kids.

That is exactly why we're going to do everything we can

to make sure she gets better.

OK?

Come here.

How long?

15 minutes.

15 minutes? OK. That's good. Pit stop?

Or is that cheating or something?

If it's all right for Jenson Button, right?

-Right.

-Although...

OK. Let's go, then.

Wait. Wait there.

Where're you going?

All right, guys?

I'm doing the right thing, I'm trying to look good for my woman,

all right, but I just need five minutes, please, just two of them,

and I promise I'll be back on it tomorrow. OK?

What d'you reckon? Chant my name. AJ, AJ, AJ...

Oh, stop right there. We can't.

I reckon we've got an hour to kill. Here you go.

Oops!

Oh!

You is naughty.

Cheers.

Taste good? Go on, then.

Argh!

Argh!

To infinity and before!

Before! Way before!

How're you feeling?

Tired.

Yeah. Close your eyes, then.

Why don't you go home, get her some stuff?

Let Abi and Mum know how she's getting on.

Babe, it's fine, I'll call Jack. He can bring some stuff.

I'm worried about Abi. She was so excited about her party.

I'll call her.

Please.

Just make sure she's all right. I'll call you if I hear anything.

-Promise?

-Yeah. Course.

See you later, Lauren.

Sweet dreams, baby.

Sweet dreams.

What're you doing?

Oh, hello, sweetheart. How's your sister?

You're disgusting, you know that?

Is everything OK?

It's not even, what, 1:00, and you're getting wasted.

Just a beer.

Is that right?

Just a beer?

Why does everyone in this world think that it's OK

to drink themselves silly?

What good has ever come out of anyone being drunk?

Why, why, why do you need booze to get through the day?

That is pathetic! You are pathetic!

Abi?

Abi!

-Forget the ice cream.

-Yeah.

You pleased with yourself, are you? Yeah?

How could you lie to Max about Lauren texting you, eh?

I didn't know how bad she was.

As if that would've made a difference, Luce. You're sick.

-You know that.

-Don't talk to her like that.

You're no better, are you? Sitting, watching her drink, were you?

-She didn't touch a drop till you turned up.

-You what?

Yeah. So if anyone's to blame, mate, it's you.

Want to say that again? Do you want to say that again?

Joey! Stop it!

Stop it!

What is wrong with you? Stop it! These were meant to be for Lauren.

Our friend. Our cousin. You were in love with her once.

She might be dying, and all you can do is fight.

If we weren't all wrapped up in our own pathetic rubbish, then maybe

we could've been there for her and prevented it from happening.

Come here.

Come here. It's going to be all right.

OK?

Where's Dad?

He went home to get you some stuff.

Lauren.

When you went off with this bloke the other night, what happened?

Nothing.

Nothing like that. We was just drinking.

Why do you do it, Lauren? Why do you drink?

It can't be to have a good time, can it?

Are you running away from something?

Are you hurting?

I don't know.

Because you can talk to me, you know.

You can tell me anything, and I will listen. I won't judge.

We get on well, don't we, you and me, on the whole?

I mean, all mothers and daughters have their problems, don't they?

But we're close, aren't we?

Mum, please...

We can talk. Can't we?

I mean, when I had my cancer,

you were the only person that I could confide in.

And I want to do the same for you.

I want to be there for you, I want to help you get better, protect you...

Just stop.

Stop.

Sorry. Wh-What did I say?

I'm tired.

I've got the results of the ultrasound scan.

Are you happy to hear them now, Lauren,

or would you like to wait for your dad to get back?

Mum?

Yeah, yeah. Now.

You do still want this baby, don't you?

It's all I want.

I'm sorry about yesterday.

Drinking, and the Carl thing.

I just didn't want him to come between us.

Cos he means nothing to me.

I promise you.

I should get back.

So, it is what you expected, then?

Acute alcoholic hepatitis, yes.

So, what are we looking at for recovery here?

Days, weeks?

We expect to keep her in hospital for a few more days

while we keep her on a vitamin drip,

the Chlordiazepoxide for the withdrawal,

and carry out more liver function tests.

An alcohol liaison nurse will also want to speak to Lauren

about stopping drinking.

That's the biggest challenge.

Lauren's liver may naturally regenerate itself,

but if an attack like this happens again,

she could get liver cirrhosis.

And that, I'm afraid, is irreversible.

What do you mean? What do you mean, irreversible?

It's impossible to say what would be the tipping point.

It could be ten drinks, or it could be one.

There is no longer a safe amount for you to drink.

Jay. We didn't mean to upset her. I think she's a little bit teary.

What's the matter? Sit down.

What's happened?

I'm a horrible person.

Don't be daft.

I have bad thoughts. All the time.

Like what?

Like, why did she have to ruin my birthday?

Like, I wish I never had a sister.

Like, I wish my mum and dad would just walk away and forget about her.

See? You're shocked.

You thought I was nice. But I'm not.

I'm so angry and selfish.

Now you can't even stand to be around me.

Listen. Meet me in the Arches in 20 minutes, all right?

I can't believe you were spying on us!

Why? Because I caught you out?

It wasn't my idea, Rox.

Judas!

If AJ told you to jump off a cliff, would you?

No.

-No? Right, that's it, you're grounded for two weeks.

-What?

I can make it three if I want.

OK. You know when you say grounded,

-do you mean in the bedroom?

-Yeah.

How did this turn into that?

I don't know, but I think we should leave.

Yeah, me too.

Quickly.

MOBILE RINGS

Hello?

Course I can.

Where?

What if I can't stop her from drinking?

I can't just stand by, can I, and watch my daughter kill herself?

No-one expects you to have all the answers.

Addiction is extremely hard to break.

So what do I do?

You're a mum. You must know how desperate I am.

There are several options.

Most people detox at home with the help of their families,

their GP, or perhaps a support group.

What are the other options?

There is residential care.

I know how shocking this must be for you.

It's not an easy decision, and it's certainly not cheap,

but you and Mr Branning must discuss it

and decide what's best for Lauren.

For all of you.

And I didn't mean to sound judgmental earlier.

I just know how acrimonious a marriage breakdown can be.

I got divorced last year.

If it was your daughter, what would you do?

It's quite far away, but it's the best place I know.

Glad you called.

Been worried about you.

Can I get you something? Cup of tea?

Can't stay long.

I just wanted to explain about yesterday. Lost my head a bit.

It's being pregnant, you know, hormones,

it's like being on a rollercoaster.

But anyway, I feel better today, more myself.

So I don't need you calling round,

slipping notes through my door, trying to get in here.

Cos you ain't got the key any more.

I've changed the locks.

Permanently.

Understood?

Jay?

Jay?

ALL: Happy birthday!

# Happy birthday to you

# Happy birthday to you

# Happy birthday, dear Abi

# Happy birthday to you! #

Wish.

Ahh!

What did you wish for?

What do you think?

I think that you haven't got a bad bone in your body.

That's what I think.

Aww! So cute!

Such a sweet boy.

Shut up!

All right, Tan?

Couldn't get hold of Abi. Left her a message.

She's probably out with Jay or something.

What's the matter? Have you heard something?

Babe, why didn't you call me?

I was just about to...

Her liver is damaged.

Seriously damaged.

So that if...

..if she... Even if...

It's bad, Max.

What do you mean, Tan? How bad?

One more drink could kill her.

Well, then, it's simple. We don't let her drink.

We watch her. We sit with her. Every night if we have to.

We're a team, aren't we?

Tan?

Course we are.

-All right, Trace?

-Hiya.

-You got change?

-Yeah, sure.

Can you keep a secret?

Not another one.

I'm a day late.

Are you saying what I think you're saying?

You don't look TOO bad.

Thanks, Nan.

Right, well, I've made a bed for you on the sofa.

-What?

-Well, you know, like I used to when you were a little girl and you had a day off school.

So it's all there, look. You've got the telly. Magazines.

I don't need all of this. I feel OK.

Yeah. Yeah, course you do. But you heard the doctor, you know.

You need to take it easy, don't you? You've had hepatitis.

So it's gonna leave you feeling weak, a bit tired.

Right, I might pop to the shops, get some treats.

Do you want anything?

Bottle of vodka?

I'm joking.

What about one of them orange lollies I used to get you?

Remember, when you were poorly? I used to bring them back from work.

I'm all right.

But thank you.

Right, well, shall we leave Lauren to get some rest?

Yeah. See you later, Lauren.

I'm glad you're home.

Me too.

She don't seem too bad.

It's all a front, Mum.

What she needs is peace and quiet, you know.

So if you could make yourself scarce...

All right.

I'll pick up Oscar from his mate's and take him out for a bit.

Great. Thanks.

I can be useful, you know.

Abs, would you nip upstairs and get that box off my bed,

the one from the attic? Thanks, darling.

Just seems wrong, you know, you doing this all by yourself.

I'm fine.

Yeah, but if I was here...

Yeah, well you're not, are you? So...

Anyway it was clear, wasn't it, from the doctor?

Any tension between you and me, it's best avoided, innit?

-Yeah, well - I don't want any tension.

-What do you want?

I just want to help. I just want our little girl to get well. I just want everything to be OK.

Yeah... Yeah, that's what I want, too.

Here you go.

Thank you, darling.

There you go.

What is all this?

It's that mobile you wanted for the baby.

It's in the top there. You might as well keep the rest of it.

-You sure?

-Yeah.

It's just gathering dust, isn't it?

Sweet. Used to hang over Lauren's cot.

Do you remember?

I put it up the day we brought her back from the hospital.

She used to look at it for hours.

It's all a bit of a blur, isn't it?

It ain't that long ago.

19 years.

MOBILE PHONE RINGS

Right, well, thanks again for bringing us all back.

Yeah, that's all right. I'll pop back later.

No, I'll call you. It's fine.

-No, I want to. You know, I just want to check in.

-Right.

PHONE CONTINUES RINGING

Hello.

Yes, I know. Sorry.

Look, apologise to him, make him a cup of tea or something.

Tell him I'll be there in about five minutes, OK?

-Are you going out?

-Yes, I've got to get all this from the chemist.

-I can go.

-No, it's fine. I need to pop in Booty's as well.

Check on the place.

So, just do me a really big favour, keep an eye on Lauren for me?

You really think that's a good idea?

No. No, it's not ideal, Abi, but...

Look, I'm gonna be as quick as I can, all right?

Just make her some food if she's hungry or anything.

Don't let anyone in. And don't let her leave.

Just call me if you've got any problems.

PHONE RINGS

I'm sorry. I know.

I ain't had time to clear up.

Oh, yeah. The cot came.

Um... How's Lauren?

Er, yeah... She's about as well as can be expected, really.

I thought I'd get her some magazines, you know. Fashion. Girly stuff.

You all right?

Yeah. Yeah, I'm fine.

Just...worried about Lauren.

-You're not coming down with anything, are you?

-No. No, no, no.

Look, I've got to get to work.

I'll see you later, all right?

Listen, when you get back. The nursery. It'll be all set up.

Great.

I'm so sorry that I'm late. My daughter's...

She's not been well, so... If you'd like to make your way upstairs

and I'll be with you as soon as I can?

Lola. Can you do me a favour, please?

Can you nip to the chemist, get me that lot?

-Yeah, course.

-Thanks.

-Who's the stiff?

Go on, before it shuts.

Kirsty!

-Oh, hi.

-You all right?

-Yeah.

So? How did you get on?

The test?

Oh. I ain't had time.

-You said you were late!

-A day. I want to be sure.

Why don't you get one? Then you will be.

What if it's negative? What do I do then?

Besides, they're out. I'll get one tomorrow. I promise.

It's all right. I'll get you one. I'll get you one right now.

Kat!

Kat, don't! Kat!

Where you going?

Just doing something for a mate. Won't be long.

Oi, I don't know if you've noticed

but your ex-boyfriend's giving me the eye.

He is so nice-looking.

You're welcome to him.

I'm free for a drink later if you fancy it?

This what they call playing hard to get?

Well, I don't mess about, me. Just say it like it is, you know.

What's up with those two?

I dunno. You can help me pack away if you like. Seeing as Kat's left me.

I've got loads of heavy clothes that need lifting

and I'm such a weak and feeble little girl.

You look strong enough to me.

Hi. What can I get you?

Pint, please. Any news on Lauren?

She's come home. She's just come back.

How is she? Is she all right?

I don't know. I guess.

Forget the pint, yeah.

I've just started pouring!

How you feeling?

Not very good. I've got these pretty bad stomach cramps.

Anything I can do?

Thanks for being nice to me.

I'm your sister, ain't I?

I wasn't very nice to you, was I? The other day. With your notes.

It's OK. Don't worry about it. Who cares about A-levels, anyway?

You! And you should. Cos you are so clever, Abi.

You could do whatever you want. Do you know that?

You don't have to be like this. Like me.

You're really clever too, Lauren. I mean, you're really good at art.

You're good at all kinds of things.

Am I? Maybe I was, but I'm not any more.

It'll be all right. You will get better. You'll see.

DOOR BELL RINGS

I'll get it. You drink your tea, yeah?

Lauren in?

She's ill, Joey. She needs rest.

I ain't gonna cause any trouble. I'm just worried about her.

-I'll tell her.

-I need to talk to her, Ab.

You can't, all right? Not now. Not today.

If you don't go I'll call my mum and dad. Yeah, and they'll go spare.

-And they won't let you anywhere near her.

-Yeah, fine. All right.

Will you just... Will you just... Just tell her I've been round, yeah?

Yeah. Course I will.

What did he want?

-Nothing. It doesn't matter.

-Abi?

Yeah, Mum said no visitors, all right? You need to rest.

I am not an invalid! I had one too many drinks and I got ill.

And everyone's acting like I got cancer or something.

Where are you going?

-To talk to Joey.

-No, no - you need to rest. You can't. Just lie down.

-I want to see him!

-No. I'll call Mum! You just wait here.

Good luck with that.

Lauren!

Back off, Abi. I mean it.

Fine. You know what? Don't listen.

Two minutes of being nice, being a proper sister. That is all you can manage, isn't it?

Lauren? You all right?

Lauren, what are you doing up and around?

Yeah, I'm fine. Have you seen Joey?

No.

Lauren!

-Lauren, you look terrible. Just sit down.

-No, thank you.

-What are you doing?

-I'm looking for Joey! Is that allowed, Lucy?

What?

I bet you were so happy the other night - me, off my face,

disappearing with that bloke.

-Lauren, I...

-That disgusting bloke!

-Just listen...

-You didn't even try and stop me, did you?

No. And I wonder why.

Obviously so you could get your claws into Joey!

I know all about it.

-Lauren...

-No, I don't want to hear it from you, all right?

Billie this. Billie that...

That wasn't my fault, Carol.

Lauren. Lauren!

What?

What, Lucy? You gonna stop me talking to him now?

He came to see me!

Look, I didn't make you go off with that bloke.

What, so you're not with Joey, then? What, you two ain't together?

So what if I am? What is it to you?

Shouldn't you be at hospital or at home?

What, out the way?

Come on, Lauren. Let's go.

No, you know what. I think I need a drink.

Lauren. Lauren, I just came to see you.

-Why? Did you feel sorry for me?

-I was worried, weren't I?

-Yeah. You and Lucy both.

-Babe, look, let me just take you home, yeah?

What, like some sick old woman?

-You shouldn't be here.

-Give me a drink.

-No.

-Why?

Come on, Kirsty. Look, I've got money. Please, just one drink.

Come on.

I'm calling your dad.

No, look, you don't understand, OK. Just one last drink.

I never had one, because I never knew.

Please, just one last drink, then that is it.

Lauren. Come with me now.

Please. Please, I need it.

No, Lauren.

Fine. Fine, then I'll just get it myself!

Lauren! Lauren, don't. Lauren!

-Lauren! Lauren, come here.

-GET OFF ME!

Lauren, come here, darling. You don't want this, darling.

DON'T TOUCH ME!

Sorry. Ow. Sorry.

-Babe, come on.

-I mean it, Joey. I need a drink.

-No, you don't, Lauren.

-Lauren...

-Oh, look, here she is. My old mum. What was it this time?

Did you tell Abi to keep me under lock and key? Is that what it was?

Come on.

No, I can't. I can't.

I'm having a quick one.

-Did you give her a drink?

-No, course not. She just came in.

-You need to get her out of here, Tan.

-Yeah, thanks, Carol.

Get off me.

Whoa, whoa, is she all right?

We're going home.

Joey. Joey...

-Lauren! Lauren!

-You all right? I've got your medicine.

You're gonna be fine when you get home.

Stop. Just stop! Get off me... Please.

-I'm fine.

-Careful, Lauren.

-What's happened?

-Don't ask.

-Here.

Take it home. Do it now. No messing about.

OK. Tell Alfie I'm checking on Lauren and I'll be back in a bit.

Listen, good luck.

Yeah.

-What was she doing in the Vic?!

-Do you mind?

-I ain't going anywhere.

-You've seen the state she's in.

-That's exactly what I'm talking about.

I leave her in your charge, half an hour later she's looking for a drink.

-Served by your wife, actually.

-Who happened to call me. So where were you?

-Booty's.

-Oh, Booty's!

-I had an appointment!

-Waxing? Manicure? Must have been really important.

-Just get out.

-No.

-Just get out of my house.

-Mum!

-Tan, she's not just your daughter.

-Can you just stop it?!

Can you just stop it?!

You heard her. Get out.

No, both of you. I have had to listen to this my whole life.

Since I was little. You two just taking lumps out of each other. And I can't stand it.

-It's all right, Lauren.

-No, it's not. It's not all right, is it?

It's not all right.

Can't you two just talk? What, can you not even just talk?

SHE CRIES

OK. All right, darling. OK.

(Just go.)

(Please.)

Lauren, you know where I am. If you need anything.

-Anything at all.

-She knows.

-I'll come back later, OK?

-It's all right. I can call.

-I'll come back later.

God!

OK, I'm going.

-This ain't over, Tan, all right. She's my daughter as well. Do you hear me?

-Fine.

Well, why don't you get that written on her coffin when she dies of liver failure?

-Now please, will you just go?

-Tan...

Please.

DOOR BELL RINGS

DOOR BELL RINGS AGAIN

This is the hardest part, darling.

It'll get better, honestly it will, but just maybe for now...

-you need a little bit of help.

-Like what?

Some kind of care.

Care?

Residential care.

A hospital?

A clinic.

What?

-Mum, I don't want that. I don't need that...

-OK. Fine. Fine.

Yeah. Well, we don't need to discuss it now.

I just wanted a drink. One drink.

The final drink. Just to say goodbye to it.

Lauren, you can't have a drink. Not even one.

You heard what the doctor said. One drink could kill you.

Yeah, they only say that to scare you. I've been sick.

That's it. Sick. People get better.

You don't have to keep me under lock and key.

In fact, you can't. You can't keep me under lock and key.

You tried that. Remember? It didn't work.

OK.

-All right? I just need to go to the bathroom.

-Come on, then.

No, Mum, I can do that on my own!

He said you had a little chat. He said you invited him up here.

-Is that it?

-Ain't that enough?!

Well, yeah, he's lying. I didn't even answer the door. He didn't come in. I didn't even talk to him.

-Right, so why-why would he say all that?

-I don't know! Stir things up!

-He's sick! You can't believe a word he says.

-I don't want him in this flat, all right?

-I don't want him near you or the baby. Do you understand?

-Neither do I. I promise! I HATE him!

-How's Lauren?

-Oh, she's great, yeah(!) She's great. You know, fabulous.

-Apart from the fact she nearly had a drink, on your watch.

-I stopped her. I called you!

Tanya's doing her nut. And I've got to come home to this mess. Look at it.

What, is this what life's going to be like when the baby comes?

What are you doing, Max?

Nothing. I'm sorry, all right? I'm just upset about Lauren.

OK.