03/01/2017 River City

-Daddy!

-Brilliant surprise, that, your dad showing up -

and asking Andy to come, too.

Well, they're best mates.

Annie is my future and if you do anything to get in the way of that,

I will bury you.

Put that down before you hurt yourself.

SHE SCREAMS

-AMBER:

-It's Dad, he's been shot!

We have DNA, we have prints, we have the gunshot residue.

Scarlett Mullen, I'm hereby arresting you

for the attempted murder of Leonard Murdoch.

Part of me is standing here willing that line to go flat.

Only part of you?

It's a fragile thing, life.

Especially for those who make enough enemies along the way.

Some folk know when the time's right to go...

..but some people are too stubborn to go quietly.

Careful, Alex.

You read about these coma patients waking up having heard everything.

Well, let's hope he never wakes up, then.

I'm joking.

MONITOR BEEPS

Mum!

I can't sleep.

I had a bad dream.

Katie, why don't you just go to bed, love?

This is Mummy and Daddy time.

Hey, this happens sometimes.

Well, she needs to respect our privacy.

We're parents, there is no privacy!

I tell you what, why don't I just go and sleep on the couch, yeah?

Are you sure? It's not very comfortable.

Beats an army cot.

Thank you.

-Whatever makes you happy, beautiful.

-Thanks.

And, Greig, to be continued, OK?

Yeah.

Aww, what happened?

Evening.

I... I thought I heard someone at the door.

You didn't see them then, when you were sneaking in?

You can relax, your mother's gone to bed.

Oh, dear. Trouble in paradise already?

Oh, no. No, I'm making the ultimate sacrifice in fatherhood.

Katie had a bad dream, that was all.

Are you going to join me, or what?

So who was it you were out with tonight then, Jules and Drew?

No, but I'm impressed you knew their names.

Your mum has me swotting up.

Oh.

HE SIGHS

Look, Frankie, I know I haven't been around as much as some dads -

well, most dads, to be honest...

Yeah, well, you're here now, aren't you?

Yeah.

Oops, sorry, don't want to trigger any flashbacks or anything.

What, from the Second World War?!

Cheeky little smartarse!

She was greetin' in her sleep again last night.

What?

She looks pure knackered today.

Maybe we're letting too much slide.

She's been having nightmare.

Stop talking about me. I can hear you. I'm fine.

I just want my mum back.

I just thought you might like an update.

Is it about my mum? When's she coming home?

Er, look, Mum's helping the police with an investigation the now, pal.

If she's helping, why did they arrest her?

Right, let's get you to your pal's house, all right?

Why are you not telling me what's going on?

-We'll explain later. Just go with Patrick.

-Come on.

So what's this update?

Well, it's bad news, I'm afraid.

Scarlett's been refused bail.

So she'll have to remain in custody until her trial.

What?! You cannae do that.

This is a travesty!

Wasting taxpayers' money on keeping an innocent mother

away from her family.

Her fingerprints were found at the scene

and ballistics tell us she fired Lenny's gun.

That is absolute rubbish!

We now know also the exact time Lenny was shot, 7:26pm.

Scarlett can't account for her whereabouts then.

How do you know that down to the minute?

Because Lenny was leaving a voicemail when he was shot.

Scarlett didn't do it!

Can you prove that?

We're tearing our hair out,

and you're wanting us to do your job for you!

HE SIGHS

Good morning, gorgeous.

Was that you clattering around at six this morning?

Aye, I was up cleaning. I thought you'd appreciate the help.

I'd appreciate some sleep!

Sure, sit down and I'll sort out breakfast.

Sorry, I'm being awful.

It's just pre-interview stress.

Aye, you're probably right.

But, hey, at least I get to be married to a high-flying lawyer.

Lowly paralegal, you mean.

Sounds even sexier.

Whoever woke me up better have life insurance.

Erm, no way, Frankie.

-What, you don't like my new skirt?

-Where's the rest of it?

Dad, she's stuck in the 18th century again!

Nope, not getting involved.

Well, it's kind of your job to be involved.

Your mum says no, go and get changed.

Oh, so this is how this new regime's going to work?

Everyone versus Frankie.

Get changed. Now.

Katie, hurry up.

So it's not enough that you're forcing me to go to a state school,

but now I can't even enjoy my last days of freedom?

Enjoy them in a longer skirt.

So you know how the heating system works?

No, Gary, not since you asked me five minutes ago.

Hey, I've seen you fumble your way around technology.

She'll be fine!

I know.

Are you sure you remember how to change the barrels?

What's a barrel?

Oh, unclench, Gary. It's a pub, not a nuclear submarine.

If I'm not completely satisfied you can take charge tonight

-then I'll need to arrange cover.

-SHE GROANS

Deep breath.

Just think about the Jacuzzi,

spa treatments,

king-size bed.

Is one night going to be enough?

MOBILE BEEPS Oh, that's me.

Everything all right?

Erm, yeah. I...

I just forgot to pack my wash bag.

7:26? It happened over a week ago.

Exactly, I don't even know what I was doing last night at 7:26.

We should talk about Madonna.

What about her?

For a start, you need to tell her the truth.

She's already asking questions you cannae answer.

Are you listening to me?

Aye, we're handling it, Gran.

How, by avoiding reality and pretending everything's fine?

I get the reality!

Lenny's half-dead in hospital,

and there's gunshot residue on my ma's clothes.

You cannae get more real than that!

Look, Madonna needs her ma,

and I'm going to make sure that happens.

Have you been watching Prison Break again?

What are you going to do?

She needs an alibi, right? So I'll just have to find her one.

Excuse the mess in here, it's a proper full house now.

-Look at you. Ally McBeal, eat your heart out.

-Thanks.

Well, let's hope the clothes make up for a decade out of work.

Oh, that's just nerves talking. I'm sure you'll be fine.

She'll be more than fine. She's going to nail it.

What's up?

Well, this legal team are hounding me.

Apparently my soul is owned by a conglomerate, thanks to Lenny.

It's just my reputation that's in danger,

-which is why I need some legal advice.

-From me?

Well, there must be some way out of this contract.

I don't know...

-She doesn't want to do it, Annie.

-Excuse me?!

I just thought, you know,

because you've got this interview to prepare for.

Well, I can speak for myself, thank you!

Yeah, women can do that nowadays.

Yeah, all right, I'm sorry.

Sometimes when my mouth gets ahead of my brain...

I'm sure you could do it in your sleep anyway.

-Smooth recovery.

-Right, I'm off.

You knock 'em dead this afternoon,

and I'll get the champagne for later.

Annie.

It's not what you think.

It's none of my business.

Just a few teething problems, that's all.

In fact, maybe you could help.

Sorry?

Greig's trying really hard to settle in.

And home's one thing, but he doesn't know anyone in Shieldinch.

I hardly know him now, though.

I'm only asking you to be a friendly face.

Take him out for a coffee or something.

He's your brother-in-law.

Sure. Glad to help.

Thanks, Annie. And you can drop that contract off later

and I'll take a look at it, but I'm not promising anything.

Brilliant.

What are you doing here?

I needed to put something in the safe. What's the problem?

I just had an interesting phone call.

Apparently, there's a flurry of activity at Murdoch Enterprises.

I wouldn't call it a flurry.

So you're not selling off a load of flats?

We need to streamline. It's nothing Lenny wouldn't have signed off on.

How convenient for you.

Is there something you want to say to me, Amber?

No, you carry on getting your ducks in a row.

I'll be at the hospital with our dying father.

It's a bit late for the caring-daughter act, isn't it?

You do realise it's the middle of winter?

I'm fine.

No, you're not. What's going on?

HE SIGHS

-I don't even know how to tell you.

-Tell me what?

OK, you're freaking me out now, so start talking.

I got a message this morning from Will.

Your ex? What does he want?

He says that he's...

That I might...

We need to go and get tested.

He's given us HIV?!

No...

(Syphilis.)

Robbie, you nearly gave me a heart attack!

Did you hear what I said?

Ach, we're fine.

Unless you're telling me you've been sleeping with him again?

Oh, my God, no!

Well, it's just a wee STI.

It's no big deal.

There's nothing wee about it. This is serious, Gary.

OK, well, we can get tested when we get back from our trip.

You still want to go?

We can't sleep together.

Why, in case we double-catch it?

Relax, Robbie.

Come inside before you catch something even worse.

All right?

Hey.

Katie's just at a friend's, so I thought I'd take a break.

In the pub, while Lorna's out providing for her family.

I'm having my lunch, is that not allowed?

You don't need to justify yourself to me.

I'm not trying to justify anything.

So how's the job hunt going?

Well, not great.

It turns out I'm barely qualified to shuffle papers on civvy street.

Well, I'm sure you'll get something in Sudan

or some other far-flung place.

That life's behind me now.

Oh, so you're not thinking about running away again?

Look, Annie, we're probably going to be seeing

a lot more of each other from now on,

so it would probably make Lorna happy,

you know, if we just got along.

Because you're all about making Lorna happy, aren't you?

Sorry.

You're late.

You all right, Alex? How's your dad?

It could go either way, but we're all keeping our fingers crossed.

Good to hear. Well, I'd better go and pick up Katie.

I'll see youse around.

Good to see that you two are patching things up.

He seems to think we're back together.

Yeah, well, I didn't tell him that.

Fair enough. How's your hotel?

It's fine! What's it got to do with you?

Has something happened?

Sorry.

Look, just...

..be patient with me, OK?

I'll tell you when I'm ready.

OK.

I'll get the drinks in.

Are you sure this is a good idea?

Have you got a better one?

Mate, giving a fake alibi's a serious crime.

Aye, well, that's not for us to worry about.

Are you gonnae help, or no?

-Are you looking forward to going back to school?

-Yeah.

Yeah, right(!)

Come on, you can tell me, which one of your teachers

do you hate the most?

I like my teachers.

Are you kidding me? I couldn't stand any of mine.

When's Mum coming home?

Soon, hopefully.

I know, what about whenever we get home

-we make some pancakes, what do you say?

-Yes, please!

-Excellent.

-Can you make them like Andy does?

I'm sure I can. Yeah? Come on.

Through this holy unction may the Lord pardon thee

whatever sins or faults thou hast committed.

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost.

Father, what are you doing?

Everyone deserves someone praying for them, especially in the end.

What, you really think he's going to die?

It's in God's hands now.

They say a watched pot never boils.

End of the Murdoch empire. It's tragic, isn't it?

Look, I know I've made mistakes.

Even people with the best intentions get it wrong sometimes.

Well, maybe you should ask that priest for forgiveness, then.

Why should I forgive your mistakes and not Lenny's?

Are you really that bothered?

It's just a matter of time now.

He's my father.

Lenny is just shared DNA, and the same goes for Alex.

That is not family.

Well, let me guess,

you're the only one I can truly rely on?

Well, who else is there?

You need to leave - now.

I'll call the police, if I have to.

You need me, Amber.

You'll realise that soon enough.

OK, batch number three.

I've got a good feeling about this one.

I just needed a couple of practice runs, that was all.

I tell you what, why don't you go and sit down over there

and I'll bring them over to you when they're ready, yeah?

That's a good girl.

Can we have a rethink about me going to Shieldinch Academy For Plebs?

Hmm?

It looks like a prison, and they don't even have a hockey team.

I'm sorry, Your Majesty. Anyway, it was your mum's idea.

So overrule her.

I think you overestimate my powers.

Sixth year's a total waste of time anyway.

I should be off travelling, not being treated like a child.

Frankie, can we talk about this later, please?

Oh, yeah, it's always later!

OK, tonight. We can hang out

and you can complain to me as much as you like, OK?

All right, you're on.

Thank you.

Here you go, superstar.

-Don't be eating that all at once, OK?

-OK.

You didn't use ordinary milk in that, did you?

Katie! Why didn't you say something?

You could have ended up in hospital!

I hate you!

Oh, Katie, I didn't mean to shout. I'm sorry.

I'm sorry, I shouldn't have said that, I...

I completely forgot about her dairy allergy.

I know. It's not your fault.

Oh, well...

I guess Andy wins this one.

Cheers for the lunch, lads.

Nae bother, just wanted to treat a mate.

Hey, I'm not one to question free food.

How's your mum holding up?

She's been better.

Charges are nonsense.

I mean, Scarlett's as feisty as they come,

but I can't see her taking out a gangster.

So, me and Patrick were just talking about Christmas. Right?

Erm, aye...

Christmas.

Christmas.

When you two guys came through for us with that food.

Oh, aye.

AJ's no Jamie Oliver, but he sure knows how to stuff a turkey.

Aye, that's a compliment you don't hear every day.

I meant every word.

That was a crazy night, huh?

Mince pies under the Christmas tree and stuff.

-Time flies.

-Not my finest hour.

That's right.

You must have been there, under the tree,

until about eight, were you not?

I guess.

So you remember that you and my ma and all of us

were under the tree till eight?

Aye, what's your point?

No, no, Bob. The eggnog must have scrambled your memory.

Pete and I were in the Ship from about 7pm.

Are you sure you've not got that wrong? About the time?

No, no, because the last we saw you guys was back of four,

when wee Madonna was telling everyone

she'd seen Lenny with a gun.

I've never seen Scarlett more angry.

HE SIGHS

Have I said the wrong thing?

What's up?

Katie's gone, Dad. She's not in the flat!

-Are you sure?

-I can't find her anywhere?

Well, she's not just gone and run away, has she?

Come on! We'd better go and find her.

-Go, go!

-Katie!

Katie!

-Katie!

-Katie!

-Katie!

-Katie!

What's wrong?

Katie's run off.

-Yeah, but she can't have gone that far.

-You've lost her?

-How do you lose your own child?!

-I'm going to look this way.

She's not lost. I never had these problems with Frankie.

-Katie's different.

-Yeah, you're telling me!

-She's just a child!

-Look, Annie, you can beat me up about this later on,

but, see right now, I just need you to help me to find Katie, OK?

-Right, OK, let's check the backcourts.

-Please.

-Come on.

Katie!

You know, now that I think about it,

we could have been with Scarlett all night.

Pete, you can't perjure yourself.

-Scarlett needs rescuing here!

-Forget it.

If you were in the Ship,

a pub full of people would have seen she wisnae there.

Poor Madonna, what's she going to do without her mum?

Well, she's still got me and him.

You two raising a wean?

Well, it's no' ideal, but we'll just need to do the best we can.

Have you spoken to social services about this?

How? It's none of their business.

Well, they're probably going to want to assess you,

make sure that you're fit to be Madonna's guardians.

But we're her brothers!

Technically, we're no'.

Plus, I've been in prison, and you've got a record for assault.

I mean, how's that going to look?

They're never going to let us keep her!

Sorry, I didn't mean to freak you out. I'm sure it'll be fine.

I'm sorry, guys, but we need to go. Come on.

PHONE VIBRATES

Thanks for coming in.

OK, thank you.

PHONE VIBRATES

SHE SIGHS

PHONE VIBRATES

Hello?

Katie! Any luck?

No-one's seen her. What are we supposed to do now?!

-Call the police.

-What? They'll think I'm totally incompetent.

Well, you are!

Katie!

Anyone missing a fearless warrior princess?

-Where was she?

-Subway station.

A little explorer, this one.

We were worried sick. What were you thinking?

Calm down. You don't want to scare her off again.

Guys, Katie's safe.

That's all that matters, yeah?

-Yeah.

-Yeah, you're right. Thanks, mate.

Hey, don't run off again, yeah?

You promise?

Promise, promise? Pinkie promise?

Shh, please, don't say anything.

(No, shh, he's coming.)

I'm been looking everywhere for you.

I told you I was meeting Caitlin.

Right.

I guess I'm just distracted.

Do you want me to get you a drink, Robbie?

-You're looking a bit off-colour.

-Erm, no, thanks.

Gary, I just wanted to let you know

that I've made that appointment for us both for this afternoon.

Have you been looking everywhere to tell me that?

-Can it not wait till we get back?

-No, it can't.

I'm sure whatever it is, it can wait.

Unless it's really itchy.

SHE LAUGHS

You told her?!

Sorry, it just kind of slipped out.

This is our private life! What is wrong with you?

Calm down, it's not like I've never had it.

Really didn't need to know that.

Where I grew up, you hadn't lived until you'd had chlamydia...

# La-la-la... #

..and you definitely don't want anything with legs, trust me.

Caitlin, please!

It's over, you can come out now.

This isn't a joke.

To be fair, laughter is infectious, and all.

Come on, you're blowing this way out of proportion.

Oh, I'm sorry that I care about our health!

-Why are you being such a drama queen?

-Nice.

Do you know who else used to say stuff like that to me?

What are you really upset about, Robbie, hmm?

The STI, or finding out Will cheated on you?

I'm sorry.

I didn't mean that.

Robbie, I'm sorry.

-If it's what you want, we'll go and get tested.

-Yes.

The sooner we get checked out,

the sooner we can put this behind us.

You know, Robbie, they say that when you sleep with a guy,

you're sleeping with all his old partners too.

-SHE LAUGHS

-Oh, come on, it's funny!

I'm really sorry, Lorna, she must have slipped out somehow.

Yes, I get it, she's eight years old

and anything could have happened.

We're not having this conversation right now.

Lorna, I've said I'm sorry.

Well, it's not me you should be apologising to.

Right, superstar, go and get your PJs ready.

Daddy's going to run you a bath.

Come on, you.

She's not the first kid to run off. I'm sure it won't happen again.

I'm just glad we had a real-life hero to get her home safe.

I don't know about hero.

I was coming up the escalators and she was right there.

Modest, too.

Remind me again why you're still single.

Still haven't found the right woman, I guess.

-So are you heading off soon, Andy?

-Manners, Mum.

Are you not going to invite him to stay for dinner?

We'd love to have you, Andy.

Oh, someone's been going to the gym.

If you're interested in joining, they do a cheap kids' membership.

No, I can think of better ways of getting a workout.

Frankie, now is not the time to embarrass yourself!

Does anyone know where the fairy bubble bath is?

Never mind, I'll sort Katie.

Roth, how about me and you go for a catch-up?

Sounds like a great idea, mate.

Lead the way.

-What?

-You're 17.

You shouldn't be behaving like that.

Yeah, well, I can't help the way he looks at me.

You're not jealous, are you?

-Excuse me?!

-Dad's trying his best, you know.

If you weren't off chasing an entry-level job,

-maybe this wouldn't have happened.

-Mum!

-I'll

-sort Katie's bath.

I feel like a teenager.

I'm sure we'll be fine. I mean, we'd have noticed, right?

Probably.

-Listen, about the Will thing...

-We don't have to talk about it.

I only wanted to say, just because he didn't treat you right,

doesn't mean I'll do the same.

I know. You're nothing like him.

I trust you.

Good.

And I'm sorry about Caitlin.

What, you mean about me vicariously sleeping with her through you?

That was unfortunate.

Forget it.

Everyone has a list of past...

..adventures.

Tactfully put.

So how long's your list?

You really want to have THAT conversation?

Well, if ever there was a time.

OK. What's your magic number.

Why do I have to go first?

You asked the question.

Write it down?

Then we can read each other's at the same time.

This is just men? No Caitlins, right?

Ready?

Let's do this.

What?! You're joking?

But you're so good-looking.

Have you added an extra zero in here by mistake?

That is a perfectly healthy number. Could you be any more judgmental?!

You only have to have unprotected sex once to catch something.

Drop the holier-than-thou crap. We hooked up on a one-night stand.

There's a difference between an occasional bit of fun

and working your way through the phone book.

If you'd like to go through to room number 14, they're ready for you.

She'll forgive you, she always does.

You're like this big, shaggy dog peeing on the carpet.

You can't stay mad at that.

And there was me thinking it was all down to my Northern Irish charm.

Yeah? You don't have that.

Yeah, bet you've never peed on a carpet or scared a child away.

Look, you're still finding your feet

and if you want my advice with Katie...

-I can handle my own daughter, thanks.

-No, of course.

I wasn't saying you can't.

Yeah, I know. I'm sorry, mate.

Thanks again for bringing her back home.

So how's the new life treating you?

So-so.

Has it's ups and downs.

It's definitely different here.

More laundry, less IEDs?

-It's less order.

-It's going to take time to adjust.

So they say.

Anyway, being back home with the missus has its perks.

I'm worried we're going to wear out the mattress.

Erm, Lorna says that you're struggling to find work.

Yeah, well, that's the official line,

but between me and you, my inbox is full of offers.

In Shieldinch?

Nah, mate.

Try Libya, Sudan, Syria...

Private contracts?

Mate, the money's something else.

You're not seriously considering it?

Nah.

Well, I don't know. It's...

As much as we're all hoping that this trial thing works out,

I still think I need a backup plan.

Thing is mate, I don't think Lorna sees this as a trial.

I didn't mean it like that.

You've got an incredible wife here who adores you.

I don't need you to tell me that.

Anyway, Africa's too warm.

Nothing beats a winter in Glasgow, eh?

And how's Katie?

Fine, she's playing in her room, as if nothing ever happened.

And you?

Well, where's Greig?

Pub.

Go on, say it.

How can I let him be such an irresponsible idiot?

Your words, not mine.

You think I don't know what judgment looks like?

Yeah, you should - with the stick you gave me for leaving AJ.

I'm not leaving Greig!

Whoa, wee bit of a jump there.

Greig's always been such a great husband,

but do you think I'm asking too much

for him to be a hands-on father, too?

Sounds like you need an agony aunt.

Annie! I need my sister's advice.

Greig's a good guy.

He loves you.

But maybe some men aren't cut out to be good dads.

DOOR SLAMS Hiya!

Bad timing?

No, I was just leaving.

Look, I screwed up today.

Yes, you did.

I'm a jerk, Lorna.

I'm like a big shaggy dog.

What?

Never mind.

Let me try and make amends, huh?

I've booked us a table for dinner tonight.

Well, that actually sounds like a nice idea.

But you might have to bribe Katie into coming with us.

Katie? No. No, I was talking about just me and you.

-You know, some alone time.

-Alone time?

That's your big solution to all our problems?

Who said we have problems?

I can cancel the reservations.

Don't bother, at least it'll give us a chance to talk.

I wanted us to talk about Madonna this morning, but would you listen?

I know, right?

We're listening now.

You'd only be adopting her officially.

Really it'd be all three of us.

Are you two soft in the heid?

There's three of us the now, and we're barely coping!

We cannae just palm her off onto friends every day.

We'll get better.

I'll quit my job.

And live on what? Loose change down the sofa?

It's the only option.

You don't have a criminal record

and you've raised kids before.

Please, Gran!

Will you stop!

Of course I'd take her.

I love the wee lassie.

Problem is, I'm not as young as I used to be.

So? You're great with Madonna.

Aye, maybe for a couple of hours at a time, then I'm knackered.

I mean, I'll...

I'll fight anyone who threatens this family,

but do you really think they'll grant custody to me?

So what's going to happen to her?

I don't know.

We do, we all know!

Don't let's get ahead of ourselves.

-This isnae happening!

-Patrick...

No! I'm not letting them put her into care.

Patrick, come back!

THEY SIGH

I know we're not actually speaking at the minute,

but I have to say, you look absolutely stunning.

Thanks.

You scrub up not too bad yourself.

What's with the glad rags? Should I get changed?

Your dad and I are going to go for dinner.

Are you OK to watch Katie?

-No.

-Please, Frankie.

She's had a really busy day, and I think she'd really love

to spend some quiet time with her big sister.

Come on, Frankie.

You're not going to make your mother beg, are you?

Dad, you said we were going to hang out tonight.

-Did I?

-I cancelled my plans for this,

and now you think you can make me babysit instead?

Oh, yeah, solid parenting!

Sorry for not caring about the social life of a teenager(!)

Show a bit of respect and do as your told.

Fine! I'll look after Katie, after I'm done with my own stuff.

No, Frankie, now.

Either wait or get someone else.

Frankie...!

I guess we'll just have to wait, then.

She'll be back soon enough,

if she's got any sense.

-It's me who should be angry.

-Are you kidding?!

Ooh, it's like the Arctic in here.

-Maybe I should take over now.

-We're fine, Suzie!

Nothing says we're fine like a face full of spit.

Sorry. You'll not be needed tonight.

What happened to all the excitement?

The Jacuzzis, the king-size beds?

Robbie, talk to me.

So not a mother-son conversation.

In fact, some might say it's private!

Right, whatever this is, sort it out now.

-You're scaring off the customers.

-What customers?

Exactly. Now go.

Thanks, Mrs McLean!

Right, whatever you were doing tonight, the agenda's changed.

-Don't you knock?

-Right, looks like I walked in on something steamy.

-What is it, Frankie?

-Party at mine.

Spread the word to all your grubby state-school friends.

They don't know you. Could be embarrassing if no-one shows.

They'll show.

You really want a bunch of strangers at your parents' flat?

Well, you know what they say, Drew,

a stranger's just someone you haven't hooked up with yet.

Oh, and bring your football mates.

What are you doing?! People can see you.

Look, Madonna needs her ma!

I'm not having her go through what I did.

Patrick, stop!

What you even going to do in there?

-Leave fingerprints, DNA, something.

-You're not making sense.

I need evidence to back up my confession.

What confession?

Are you off your heid?!

Look, I've got motive, after what Lenny accused me of.

-I'm an unstable man.

-Aye, you've got that right!

Scarlett's going to get life for shooting Lenny -

-do you not get that?

-Aye, I know.

Right, well, I've done time before.

Right, I've no' got a family of my own,

there's nobody relying on me.

You'd really sacrifice yourself?

It's the only way. I'm doing this.

No, you're no'!

Do you think Scarlett wants you to chuck your life away?

I need to do something.

I know you do, son, and bless you for trying,

but you'll only end up behind bars,

and all for giving a false confession.

-If Madonna gets sent to care...

-We won't let that happen.

My gran's right.

We'll work it out, but not by doing something stupid.

And what are youse all looking at? Beat it!

And, you... You talking as if your mother's guilty.

Do you think she's capable of murder?

I think she'd do anything to protect her family.

Scarlett says she didn't do it,

and if you trust her you'd believe that.

The only thing that's going to end all this is the truth.

And that includes telling your sister exactly what's going on.

She's old enough to handle it.

I think we can safely say discussing previous partners was a mistake.

I know it's not fair to be annoyed about your past.

-I just want you to understand why it freaked me out.

-I get it.

I've probably given you an STI

and now you're worried about what else I might have.

That's not really the issue.

Gary, I'm really sorry that you're upset,

but can we please discuss something bigger than who slept with who?

-So your issues are more important than mine?

-In this case, yes!

HE SIGHS

It's my fault.

I should have explained to you why the Will thing hit me so hard.

What's to explain? A guy you thought you knew

turned out to be someone completely different.

Aye, but it's more than that.

Have you ever had something that you thought was way behind you,

but then suddenly it's not?

Will is long gone.

At least so you say.

For God's sake, I have not seen him for a year!

Well, then, any time you spend thinking about him is time wasted.

Thanks, Gary. Really glad that we had this chat(!)

Hey, I totally forgot,

how did your interview go today?

Yes, of course.

It's your first real opportunity in years, and I go and ruin it.

Doesn't matter. I wasn't really getting a good vibe off them anyway.

It's OK, look, you can be honest with me.

Maybe it's too soon for me to go back to work, leave Katie.

-Leave Katie with me, you mean?

-I didn't say that.

It's OK, we're on our own, just let me have it.

Maybe a good yell will make you feel better.

Greig, stop with the jokes.

Look, just tell me what you want me to do, and I'll do it.

-Anything to make you happy.

-It's not just about me!

I shouldn't have to tell you to engage with your children.

I do.

Well, I'm trying to.

"Do what your mother says," is not trying.

Yeah, well, maybe this fatherhood thing doesn't come naturally to me.

And you think becoming a single parent

came naturally to me?

I've seen how you are with Katie.

You understand her needs. I just...

I've just never been able to.

I don't know how to treat her.

Like an eight year-old girl!

She needs love and affection.

And if a grown man shouts at her,

of course she's going to get scared.

You're right, I'm sorry.

Maybe I should be more supportive.

I can't expect you to run before you can crawl.

Yeah, well, maybe me being around isn't such a good idea.

Hey, don't be ridiculous.

We're all better off with you here,

it's just going to take work.

I guess I'm just finding it hard to find my role here.

At least in the army I had a purpose.

What, risking your life, thousands of miles away?

Serving my country and putting food on your table.

I'd rather go hungry than feel sick every time my doorbell rings.

I refuse to be the proud widow,

reading my husband's name etched on a wall somewhere.

You always said that you were fine with it.

Yeah, I said what I was supposed to say!

I'm not going to pretend any more.

I didn't know that.

I love you, Greig.

I want you safe at home.

OK, things are tough right now,

but you can choose to find your purpose in a war zone somewhere,

or you can stay and fight for the people who really need you.

I'm not running anywhere.

This is where my life is.

Don't say it unless you really mean it.

Lorna, you and the two girls are my whole world.

This is what I want, and I will do anything to get it.

Come here.

LOUD TECHNO MUSIC PLAYS

Not a bad turnout!

And YOU were worried no-one would show.

I invited them, remember?

Your parents are going to go ballistic.

I wonder if we could fit a DJ in here.

So, Frankie, you want me to introduce you around?

Can't rely on a party to make people like you.

Thanks, I'll manage.

You two have fun.

My parents' bedroom's free if you want to use it.

Here, hold that.

That was a bit of a mistake.

And I wouldn't suggest coming back, either!

Her dad's a trained killer.

Time for bed, superstar!

I think you should tell her.

-Why me?

-Because I don't want her to hate me.

Right, fine, we'll do it together.

Madonna, can you turn that off a second, pal?

Why?

We...

We need to talk you.

It's about your mum.

What about her?

What we told you before,

about Mum helping the police...

that wasn't the truth.

We shouldn't have lied, we're sorry.

So where is she? When's she coming home?

I don't know exactly when she'll be home.

I don't understand.

Look, you know how Lenny's in the hospital?

Well, the thing is...

Is that Christmas Day?!

Tell me where my mum is!

Madonna, look, this is important, right?

When did you make that video?

It was Christmas.

What time?!

Why are we watching this?

'Next on Naomi's Nightmares Of Nature, Sleepyus-Grannyus.'

7:26!

There she is!

Madonna, ya dancer!

Yes!

Brilliant, pal!

LAUGHTER

CHEERING

Thank you, thank you.

Frankie!

AJ!

You're a bit older than the rest,

but I suppose if you've brought a bottle, you can stay.

-What's going on? Where's Lorna?

-She went out.

-I'll tell her you stopped by.

-This is serious.

Someone's going to call the police.

Yeah, we're going to have to continue this tomorrow, AJ,

-I've got company.

-Frankie...!

You're actually going to make me say it, aren't you?

Unless you expect me to guess.

Will might have given us syphilis, OK?

We're waiting on the test results but...

I can feel it.

I don't know why you're so embarrassed.

Erm, did you ever have to tell your mum that you'd an STI?

Would you want to know if I had?

Good point.

It's not just an infection.

I mean, it is, but...

I don't know.

It's Will.

After everything that nasty piece of work put you through,

you were finally rid of him.

Exactly!

But now...

I've just got this disgusting feeling,

that there's still part of him...

I know, I know.

You don't deserve this.

Gary says that I've just to stop thinking about him.

So you can just flick a switch?

It takes time to get over a relationship,

especially a nasty one.

This is just a wee setback, you'll get over it.

Do you think?

Yeah, the feeling will go away, Robbie.

He'll go away.

I promise.

See, how come you understand this?

With Gary it's like talking to a wall.

Oh, I'm your mother.

Who understands you better than family?

Thank you.

But, still, Gary is the one who should be here for me.

Instead we're fighting about how many people we've slept with.

Is there something funny about my misery?

That's the one conversation you never have!

And if you do, you lie through your teeth.

Where was this advice four hours ago?

Talk to Gary, agree you're both idiots,

listen to each other.

For all his many faults,

he does care about you.

Wow.

That might have been the nicest thing you've ever said about him.

Even boring people have their virtues.

Ah, there we go.

Oh, just make up!

I'll get Gary to come in.

There's nothing worse than wasting a hotel reservation.

Frankie, your mum and dad are home!

Right, you lot, you've got five seconds to disappear.

Turn that off.

And you, get off my sofa.

Sorry, Mrs Roth.

Jules, come on!

Your mum said you wanted to speak to me.

Yeah.

We should talk.

Is that wise?

It didn't work out well for us last time.

True.

So we'll just be one of those silent couples.

Never utter a word to each other unless our lives depend on it.

Sounds like my parents.

All relationships have bad days.

It'll blow over.

Yeah.

Maybe you're right.

We can sleep on it, start again tomorrow.

OK.

Oh, what about our night away?

I mean, are we still going to go?

DOOR SLAMS Have you lost your mind?!

Can I not have a few friends over?

This is our home, Frankie.

Yeah, well, it certainly is MY home - you've been here a week.

Don't you dare speak to me like that!

I'm not one of your soldiers.

I'm not about to drop and give you 20.

OK, enough.

Frankie, go to bed.

How was your fight? Did you sort out your marital difficulties?

When did you turn into such a conniving little tart?

Just take a breath here.

She has just embarrassed us in front of half the town!

Aw, is Action Man feeling self-conscious?

-Right, that's it.

-OK, stop!

Why? You are acting like this is normal.

How long has she been getting away with this crap?

So this is my fault now?

Well, you're the one that's raised her like this!

-Mum, make him stop.

-Katie, would you just grow up!

You've caused enough trouble for today!

Get out.

Just, get out!

And don't you come back until you've calmed down.

YOU discipline your children, then.

Well, that didn't take long, did it?

Not now, Annie.

I've just had Lorna on the phone in tears.

Apparently her husband showed his true colours tonight.

I said I'm not in the mood.

How many more times are you going to disappoint her, Greig?

She deserves better.

And yet you're not telling me anything I don't already know.

Then why don't you do the decent thing and leave those girls alone?

Maybe you'll lose Katie for good time - next time.

You seem awfully keen on getting rid of me.

I'm just trying to protect my family.

You're playing the concerned sister.

It's very convincing.

Yeah, well, perhaps this is hard for you to understand,

but I don't want to see the people I love get hurt.

It's funny, that - because you didn't seem concerned

the night you crawled into my bed.

That was one mistake eight years ago.

And now I'm here, reminding you of the kind of person you really are.

See you tomorrow, Suzie.

Bye, Mum. See you tomorrow.

Have you two talked things through?

Yeah, we're fine.

Like you say, no point in wasting a good hotel room.

If you need anything, just phone us.

No lock-ins, Suzie. I'll know.

OK! Have fun.

'Now on Naomi's Nightmares of Nature, Sleepyus-Grannyus.'

So, this is proof, right?

She was right here with Madonna.

This still needs to be examined by our techs.

The time has to be verified.

Verify all you like, this is real.

Well, I must admit, it looks like pretty sound evidence.

-Oh, Scarlett's coming hame!

-Yes!

-I told you!

DOOR SLAMS

DOOR OPENS AND SLAMS CLOSED

Burning the midnight oil?

I looked these out for you.

What are they?

Company books.

You wanted transparency on how I'm running things.

You can get an accountant to check them over.

No need. I trust you.

Do you?

Sure.

What's a family without trust?

I couldn't agree more.

How's he doing?

No change.

The doctors say, "Stay positive", but I'm worried that's code for,

"Go pick out a coffin."

The priest gave him his last rites today.

Do you even care if he lives or dies?

He's my father, too, Amber.

It's not like I feel nothing.

Well, what if it was me lying there?

Too much time in hospital's made you morbid.

I'm serious, Alex.

What if I was dying,

would you care then?

You know me, I'm not exactly the crying type.

It's nothing personal.

It's Lenny Murdoch we're talking about.

He'll probably outlive us both.

Yeah...

probably.

All that matters to me, is us.

You belong here, you know you do.

-Has he told you his big news?

-My boy's going to America!

-Jules, don't go.

-I could say the same for you.

If I'm majority shareholder, he can't do a thing.

I'll sign. But one condition - I need some money.

You need to get her far away from my dad,

for your daughter's sake.

If it's just a flat you need - used to be your place,

pretend it still is.

-He's out of danger.

-He's waking up?

You look like you need another pillow, Mr Murdoch.