18/04/2017 River City

You've got this place back. I've got the Candle Rooms back.

-It's been a good day.

-Cheers, cuz.

-Thought I'd hang around for a while.

-That wasn't the deal.

-I'm not asking for your permission.

-At least those children got justice.

But I was protecting the wrong people. I was a coward.

I've left him, Robbie. Your father. We're getting divorced.

Are you in love with him? Why can't you answer my question?

You didn't seem concerned the night you crawled into my bed.

That was one mistake, eight years ago.

MUSIC PLAYS IN BACKGROUND

-Cheers.

-Cheers.

-That's so nice.

-Yeah, I really enjoyed it.

-Do you want another one?

-Please.

-Who's the blonde bombshell?

-That must be Robbie's date.

He's not with Robbie!

Why not? Robbie's lovely.

Yeah, he's lovely, just not in the same league.

-Maybe he's bisexual.

-You wish.

Stop drooling, the pair of you.

Barman, can I get two beers, please, and just put it on the tab?

Hot or what? How jammy am I?

Wish me luck, ladies.

I've said to Greig that I'm going to come home early tonight.

Oh, come on, Cinderella, live a little.

-He just... he needs me at the moment.

-And what do you need?

I've had to leave Frankie in charge.

-Hmm.

-Exactly. I might need to...

What?

Take some leave from work, just to take care of him.

-Lorna, don't you dare!

-You've only just started back.

-It's only until he's up on his feet.

-And how long is that going to be?

I mean, they're not going to hold that position for you.

You know that and he knows that.

I haven't mentioned it to anyone in the office yet.

Look, you've only got one life, Lorna, OK? Don't give it up.

Do you mind?!

How rude was he?

Imagine, you could be stuck with someone like him.

Well, I'm sure you can.

He has done a runner on me! Can you believe that?

-Are you sure?

-Yeah, I've checked everywhere. His jacket's gone.

He's obviously done a bunk out the back door.

Who does that?!

Well, think yourself lucky, cos you've dodged a bullet there.

Well, it doesnae feel like it.

-I'm going to need something much stronger than a beer.

-Me, too.

Barman. Urgent. Can I have a Margarita, please?

Tequila? That's going to make for an interesting evening.

Let's hope so. Do you fancy joining me?

-Yeah, why not?

-Make it three.

Oh, Alasdair, it's awfy dark in here!

Right...

Right, now, I thought, if we taped David Attenborough, then we could

see Monster Truckers at 9:40.

Sounds like a plan to me. Is that acceptable to you, Alasdair?

Sorry?

Monster Truckers. They're driving on ice this week.

Ah. Actually, ladies,

I think tonight it's le Carre and early to bed for me.

Already? Are you not feeling well?

Alasdair?

-Bad news, I'm afraid.

-Who's deid now?

She blamed me for all those years...

..for her son.

And rightly so.

-Who? Your stalker?

-Molly!

She died last week. Cancer.

So sad.

If you'd faced her properly, instead of running,

you wouldnae be feeling so sorry for yourself.

Molly, stop it.

No, Liz. Molly's right.

I could have stopped it.

And that kind of guilt kills you.

TV PLAYS MELANCHOLY MUSIC

FRANKIE GROANS

Come on, Frankie, it's time for bed, love.

-Is it over?

-Yeah.

-What happened in the end?

I don't know. I must have conked out, too.

-Was it that good, huh?

-HE SMIRKS

Is she not home yet?

No. But, hey, it's time for you go to bed.

Why? I don't have school tomorrow.

It's a study day, not a day off. Go on, get going.

You know, it's funny you waiting up for her.

-Used to be the other way around.

-What do you mean?

When we lived in the barracks. Do you not remember?

No.

Mum used to go nuts waiting up for you half the night.

Who knows what you were up to?

-Goodnight, sweetheart.

-Night, Dad. Love you.

I love you, too.

-Night-night.

-Night.

I should've gone for him. Look!

Oh, my lord. Is that really his profile picture?

-I know! Don't rub it in.

-I thought that was the idea.

THEY LAUGH

Oh, I love this song! Come on.

No, no, no, I'll leave you to your '80s tribute.

MUSIC: Buffalo Stance by Neneh Cherry

WOMAN STRUGGLES FOR BREATH

Are you OK? Are you all right?

-Are you all right?

-Dizzy. I can't...

Oh! Can someone help me here, please?

OK, can you hear me? It's OK, I'm going to call you an ambulance.

No! No. No ambulance.

-Have you taken something you shouldn't have?

-No, nothing like...

Still, you should get checked out, OK?

-Your lower eyelid is very white.

-What are you, a doctor?

I am, actually. And that's a sign of anaemia.

I'm Doctor Annie Jandhu.

I run the practice on Montego Street, Shieldinch.

Good for you. I need to go.

OK. Do you want me to call you a taxi?

Or I can get your boyfriend to do it.

I saw you with him earlier.

He's not my boyfriend. He's a client.

Look, don't worry about me.

I told you. I'm nobody.

I mean, I'm sure they wouldn't mind if you...

Get yourself together. There's clients paying good money in here.

Are you OK there?

What are you looking so guilty for?

I just text Andy.

What? I'm only asking if he was OK.

I'm allowed to care about him, aren't I?

Good, sorry, yeah. You won't hear me arguing.

Maybe I shouldn't drink.

Or breathe, or live?(!)

Look, it's none of my business who you text,

but, um...a phone call might be better.

ROBBIE SIGHS IN EXASPERATION

Guess what he has just posted about me!

Robbie, forget about him. He's so not worth it.

Hmm. I do need to flush that man right out of my system.

Right, who's for another?

Oh, no, no, no, not for me.

I've had enough, I'm not really in the mood any more.

Me, neither. Sorry. It's way past my bedtime.

Are you going to be all right on your own?

I'm not. I'm out with Margarita.

Remember and get yourself checked out, OK?

-Bye.

-Bye.

-FRONT DOOR BANGS OPEN AND SHUT

-Lorna?

-Sorry.

-Keep the noise down!

-Did I wake you up?

HE SIGHS

No. Could hardly sleep, anyway.

Oh, we met...Oh! Oops.

You're plastered.

A wee bit.

Just leave it, would you! It'll be all right.

I'm glad you had a good night.

I had a great time. I need to do it more often.

You sneaking in like a teenager now, Mother?

Must've learnt that off of you.

Wow. Trolleyed, too.

-Legless.

-Yeah, well, that makes two of us.

LORNA LAUGHS

Mum!

Oh, well, I better get to bed.

It is a school night, after all.

-Kids, eh?

-You, too. Bed.

PHONE MESSAGE ALERT

Are you even listening to me, Alex?

Of course I am, but I'm just saying, prostitutes? There's no chance.

What else could she have been?

A stockbroker? A spy?

She could've been a lollipop lady, for all you know.

-I'm being serious.

-Then don't go jumping to conclusions.

You don't know anything about this girl.

Well, you didn't see the way that man...well, the "client"

was hanging all over her.

Oh, and one of your doormen, they seemed to know her.

Which one?

Well, I don't know, but he escorted her back to the table.

That doesn't mean anything. You said yourself she was ill.

I know what I saw, Alex.

-You didn't tell your sister all this, did you?

-No, of course not.

I hope not, cos I don't need these kind of rumours going about.

Oh, and that's what's important here - the club's reputation?

Well, that and getting closed down.

Look, I'll ask about and see if anybody knows anything, OK?

OK. Start with the doorman.

-Maybe I should let you loose on them.

-Don't tempt me.

The way that I am feeling this morning, I would be brutal.

I pity your poor patients.

Right, I mean it, Alex. Ask them.

Properly. I know what I saw.

-Message received and understood.

-OK, thank you.

See you later.

Try not to be sick on the floor, dear.

HE GROANS

-You look hellish.

-Thanks, Mum.

What time did you get in?

So, does that mean it went well?

-Love at first sight, was it?

-I don't want to talk about it.

That bad. Well, perhaps he was a little on the young side.

What's that supposed to mean?

Know your limits, darling.

-Why do I need limits?

-Because then...

you won't get hurt.

What?

It would appear I am a single woman again.

Is that the divorce, official?

Signed, sealed, delivered.

I'm sorry, Mum.

Don't be. It's not your fault.

Let's do something nice today. Cheer you up.

Like what? What do single girls do?

Get their hair done.

Come on, I'll make you so hot, you'll melt their Zimmer frames.

THEY LAUGH

HE WINCES IN PAIN Oh, darling.

I'll pass that on. Yeah, all right. Cheers, thank you.

Your 8:30 meeting's been cancelled this morning.

Not that you were going to make it in, anyway.

Oh.

Thanks for covering. Katie up yet?

Frankie's taken her to school already.

Oh.

So, how was last night?

Uh, eventful. Robbie's date abandoned him.

You did that to me once in Belfast,

after you poured a drink over my head.

Well, you shouldn't have snogged that girl with the buck teeth then,

-should you?

-It's not a very attractive quality,

jealousy, now, is it?

What's going on?

Your work. You better give them a call.

Oh, yeah, and you got a text message, as well.

From Andy.

POP MUSIC PLAYS IN BACKGROUND Big Bobby from Greenock.

I wonder how it would be if I'd stuck with him.

Terrible. I wouldnae be here for a start. I'd be someone else.

Oh, he was a handsome devil, Bobby.

From the rough part of town. Eyes like Paul Newman.

SHE CHUCKLES

His bed squeaked. A lot.

Too much information. Far too much.

-Your father never knew.

-I don't want to know, either!

He probably still thinks he was the first.

OK, so, great, you've been lying to my Dad for 30-odd years?

For years, I thought your dad was straight, but now he's

skipping down the street with lover-boy.

We were only ever on show for the golf club.

He loved you, in his way.

Not the right way. Not like Bobby.

-Mum!

-SHE LAUGHS

Well, maybe he did. Who knows?

Right. A new look for a new beginning.

Oh, it makes me look less like a pensioner. Thank you, sweetheart.

HE CRIES OUT IN PAIN

Oh darling, you've been standing too long.

No, standing's fine and so is sitting.

It's just...the bit in between that hurts.

-Take a tablet.

-I'm all out of the strong stuff.

-Then get some more.

I'm sure they could squeeze you in a quick appointment.

-I'll hold the fort downstairs.

-You don't mind?

No. Give me a chance to show off my locks.

MOCK AMERICAN ACCENT: It's not every day a girl gets a divorce.

Can I talk to you? Please.

-Yeah.

-Inside.

Yeah, of course. Come in.

Well, like I said, it's a free country.

You can talk to whoever you like.

It's just a stupid drunken text that I don't even remember sending.

Yeah, but you still think about him!

No! Not like that. Look, I was just concerned about him.

-Read it.

-You're all right.

Look. We're not even flirting.

Yeah, but after a few drinks,

he's the first person you think about, Lorna.

-Greig, don't.

-It's all right, I get it. I get it.

You get plastered, you text the ex. You've got to keep

-your options open, eh?

-It's not like that.

Annie ordered champagne and you know what I get like on that stuff.

Yeah, and I bet she encouraged you all the way.

-Don't start on her.

-I know exactly how Annie feels about me.

I bet she stuck her tuppenceworth in, anyway.

-FRONT DOOR OPENS ELLIE:

-It's only me.

-Oh, morning, Ellie.

-Oh, hey, sorry. Am I early?

-I thought you'd be at the office.

-No, I'm working from home today.

-That's code for hungover.

-ELLIE LAUGHS

Yes, thank you Frankie. I thought you were taking Katie to school.

-I did.

-And how long have you been back?

Ages.

Aye, well, you cannae trust a teenager

-to keep your secrets, can you?

-LORNA FORCES A LAUGH

Oh! I say, you're an early bird.

Yeah. It's just you're good with antiques

and that, like Drew's guitar.

Would you know how much this is worth?

Jules, my dear, is it yours?

My mum gave it to me. I don't want to get ripped off.

Well, of course you don't, but does she know?

Well, if I pawn it, then I can get it back again, if I want.

-Isn't that how it works?

-Yes, but why would you?

-Because I need to.

-What's the need for money?

-Can you help or not?

-Well, I can't tell you its value.

Jewellery's not one of my strong points, you see.

OK, forget it.

-If it's just pocket money you require...

-It isn't.

So, do you have a balanced diet?

I think so.

Right.

We just need to check if you're getting enough of the right

nutrients and vitamins.

It narrows things down.

I don't eat meat.

-But that's not going to kill me, is it?

-No.

So, where are you from originally?

Why?

No, it's not a trick question. It's a standard one.

I have to ask.

Ukraine. Kholoyev. You won't have heard of it.

I bet you it's beautiful, though.

It has bad places and good places, just like here.

I couldn't wait to get out.

Yeah, I know the feeling.

So, Faith...you eat regular meals?

I eat when I can.

OK. And how is your sleep? I mean, are you getting enough or...

..or do you work most nights?

Well...you said that man was your client, you know, in the club,

and...and, um, I just... I wondered...

Wondered what? If I'm a call girl?

Are you?

I'm a prostitute.

Let's call me what I am.

Look, I am not judging you.

Getting an idea of your lifestyle, it can help us indicate

the cause of your problem, that is all.

-Is that it?

-Look, I need you to come back,

just so the nurse can take some blood samples for testing.

-When?

-Well, I mean, today would be good. Um, 11:30?

-Right.

-And I will need your full name and address,

-cos we're sending this out...

-No.

Look, anaemia can be an indication of a more serious condition.

OK? Leukaemia. Crohn's.

You urgently need to be tested. Look, even a...a postcode will do.

I can't.

Do you not even want to know if you're ill?

Look, if not, why did you come here?

-I'll see you later, OK?

-Right.

I can bring the rest through, if you like.

Oh, that's enough for now. It's very kind of you.

No worries, doll. Can't have you lugging boxes.

Not today of all days. I like the hair, by the way.

Oh, I'm glad to see somebody's paying attention.

You should have a celebration.

Oh, no, I don't think so.

Why not? Invite some fellow divorcees.

-Winkle them out their shells. See who's available.

-SHE SCOFFS

Give them a free drink or two.

You're too good to go to waste.

Oh, you just can't help yourself, can you?

When I see a beautiful woman, I have to let them know, that's all.

Well, I could maybe make a banner, announce it across the bar.

-Uh, I don't think so.

-Well, Pete was just saying

maybe I should have some sort of divorce party.

I know, I heard, and I said, I don't think so.

Well, you said I should do something to cheer myself up.

And I have the hair...

A new hairdo is one thing, but a party is, um...it's quite another.

Out with the old life, in with the new. Make an entrance.

Make a fool of herself, more like. Nice try, pal, but it's not for us.

Get your free drink elsewhere.

Right, I'll see you later.

You only live once.

Sorry, Alasdair, flying solo today.

You'll get a seat once Jules finishes her free glass of water.

-I'm sure I won't starve while I wait.

-So, what'll it be?

A bacon roll for me, please.

And whatever this young lady would like.

I'm OK with water.

Tell you what, AJ, get her the same as me,

and then bring us a couple of coffees, too.

-No, really, I'm OK.

-I insist.

I'll bring it over.

Why did you do that?

Selling prized possessions, drinking tap water.

You're clearly skint.

I'm not asking for hand-outs.

No, but I want to buy something. Information.

You're going to tell me what's happening with you -

and the price is one bacon roll.

Throw in a chocolate milkshake and it's a deal.

Lorna thinks she might be here illegally.

I'm gonnae sack the doorman responsible, Annie.

-What else do you want?

-But that just moves the problem on.

Mm-hmm, but out of my club.

But she'll still be working. She's going to be stuck in

-some stinking back-alley brothel.

-I doubt it.

Well, how do you know?

Cos girls like that don't get all glammed-up in nightclubs.

She sounds more like your top-end stuff.

And how do you know so much about it?

-Did you know about this?

-No! I've run bars my whole life.

And I know some of those girls earn good money.

So, you've been around prostitutes?

I'm no' the bad guy here. Don't make this about me.

I'm not, but are you not even concerned?

I mean, she might be trafficked.

Why are you getting so het up about this girl?

Because there is no-one else looking out for her, OK?

And she...well, she might be seriously ill.

So, what do you want me to do?

-We could help her.

-I run a nightclub, not a refuge.

If I interfere, do you know the grief that could bring us?

So, we just look the other way, then?

Yeah. You don't mess with these people. They're not nice.

I'll keep them out the club, I promise,

but we've done all we can. And that is it.

So, you're "sofa surfing", as you so eloquently put it?

Don't even have that option any more.

Do your parents know where you are?

-Uh...doubt it.

-Well, we must ring them.

-I don't think so.

-They must be frantic.

Um... My...

My parents are dead. I've been living with my sister.

Oh, I had no idea.

I'm so sorry.

Car crash. A long time ago.

You poor thing. Why didn't I know about this?

Why would you? They don't make you wear a badge.

Why aren't you at your sister's place?

It's...it's complicated.

Look, just for once, let someone help you.

-Where are they?

-I'll go and see where they are.

-Oh, hi. On you go.

-Thanks.

If you've come for Lorna so as you can go and get drunk again,

-she's not in.

-What's your problem?

You are. Sticking your nose in where nobody wants it.

Really?

And how's the rehab going?

So slow that she may have to give up her job, I heard.

Change her mind, did you?

You're not gonnae turn my sister into a wee wifey indoors.

What, is that what I'm doing?

What is the matter, Greig?

I mean, you're worried if she's let loose, she'll work out

-she's better off with someone else?

-Like you did, Annie?

I remember exactly how you are when you're let loose.

You took advantage. DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES

You knew exactly what you were doing.

That night with you was the biggest mistake of my life!

And taking you back, that's my sister's biggest mistake!

What's going on?

It's just your Auntie Annie.

She can't take a joke, as per usual.

That's cos nothing your dad says is funny.

Tell Lorna I'll see her later.

Didn't sound like nothing.

Huh? Oh, here come the cavalry.

See you later, love, huh? All right, mate?

Oh, just put it over there, out of sight.

There was loads of Christmas stuff,

but I didn't think Santa in April was right.

Maybe this isn't such a good idea, hmm?

Perhaps a celebration is a bit inappropriate.

No. Start as you mean to go on.

A brave new single world.

Brave? I'm terrified, if truth be known.

You? Why? You can go where you like.

See who you like.

-Hmm. I'm not as young as I used to be.

-More experienced.

More to say, less to look at.

No way. A classy-looking lady, like you?

You'll be fighting them off.

Oh, thank you. You don't have to be kind.

-I'm not. I just say it how it is.

-Oh...

I got a wee bit over-ambitious with the dance moves.

-Ended up on a table at one point.

-SHE LAUGHS

-Well, that's tequila for you.

-I know.

I cannae even remember getting home.

Please don't tell me that. I'm not your pal at the moment,

-I am your doctor.

-You are my pal.

Well, look, have you tried yoga? Pilates? I mean, all that helps.

-Yoga? Really? Never again.

-THEY LAUGH

-No.

-I haven't got the time. Running the pub,

It's, like, lugging barrels and humphing crates,

it's wear and tear.

Look, I wouldnae be asking if I wasnae desperate.

Right, OK.

-Just promise me that you will try other methods, OK?

-Promise.

-Not just pills.

-I'll even buy a leotard.

-Thank you. You're a life saver.

-OK, see you later.

-Bye-bye.

-Any sign of her?

-No. No phone call, either.

OK. Thanks.

Could you please not eat that on there?

Dad eats in bed all the time.

Well, he doesn't have a choice, does he?

And he doesn't need you winding him up, as well.

What, as well as you, you mean? Or Annie?

Nobody winds him up as well as your Auntie Annie.

Why is that, do you think?

Why does she hate him?

She doesn't hate him. They both care about us and...

they clash.

Sounded like she was trying to split you and Dad up.

You heard me and your dad talking earlier, didn't you?

Look, nothing is happening, I promise.

I only ever texted Andy out of concern

and Annie didn't encourage me. Your dad's wrong about that.

But that's not what she was saying earlier, on the stairs.

When?

-When Dad was off to physio.

-How? What did they say?

That you were making a big mistake, being with Dad.

She was, like, really in his face,

you know, like, proper nasty.

She wouldn't.

Well, she did. I heard her.

SIREN WAILS IN DISTANCE

PHONE RINGS

-FAITH (through intercom):

-Who is it?

Oh, hi, Faith, it's Annie. Um, Annie Jandhu.

DOG BARKS

What are you doing here?! You'll get me into trouble!

You didn't come in for your blood test!

And look, I just came because I brought you these.

Having a clear-out?

My mother is. It's just stuff from the spare room.

She wants it dumped.

-Even this wee fella?

-ROBBIE GASPS

I didnae know she still had him. This is Teddy.

Teddy, this is Pete.

-An old friend, I take it?

-Yeah, my dad gave him to me.

He wanted me to get into rugby, but... Loved Teddy, hated rugby.

-Poor Dad.

-At least you've got one thing in common, eh?

THEY LAUGH Maybe.

They always seemed happy. You know, at least to me.

But they were just pretending. Trying to make it work.

-Maybe everybody does that.

-You're asking the wrong man.

I thought they'd go on forever, you know? Like The Archers.

At least you've got your mum here with you here now. Even better.

ROBBIE SCOFFS Is it?

Single and living with Mother, bickering into our old age,

-like Jack and Victor.

-Your mum doesn't want that.

And suddenly, you're an expert on my mother?

I've been through it, haven't I? Moving on.

I mean, why keep all that baggage?

For the memories.

Who needs reminding? Now is all that matters.

At the end of the day, the past is a box of old garbage.

This is not garbage!

Get rid. Live in the moment, like your mum's doing.

This isn't garbage.

Is this the kind of life that you want, though?

Could be worse. A lot worse.

But...were you trafficked?

I wasn't stolen off the streets, if that's what you think.

What, you chose to do this?

Who chooses this?!

I wanted to be a teacher.

Well, then why don't you just do that? Run away? Leave?

I owe them money.

I also make them money. Lots of it. Do you understand?

Yeah, but can you not just go - disappear?

-And what would I do? Where would I go?

-Back home.

That's the first place they'll look.

And if I'm not there, then my mother will have to pay.

There must be somewhere safe.

Not for me.

This is home now.

-It's not that bad. And they...they trust me.

-SHE LAUGHS UNCONVINCINGLY

LOUD BUMP FROM UPSTAIRS

Thank you for these. I promise I will take them,

but please don't come back here again, OK? Ever.

At least take my card.

Go home, Doctor Jandhu.

-Get oot my hoose, you bampot!

-I'm calling the police!

Oh, look, it's Jules.

What are you doing here, dear?

Alasdair said it was OK.

You nearly gave us a heart attack. We heard the television,

we thought we had a burglar.

Sorry, Alasdair said he'd ask you. I'm so embarrassed.

Jules? Jules, dear?

What's the hurry?

You nearly took her head off with that!

Now, we should call Alasdair.

Call him? Are you kidding? Back down these stairs.

Me and him are gonnae have words!

Is this your dirty washing that you're hanging?

It might as well be.

This isn't happening.

I'm afraid it is.

Allow me, Madam.

To the rescue again, Sir Peter.

This isn't just about you.

This is my childhood that you two are dancing all over.

-No-one is dancing on anything.

-No, right, so while I'm trying

to pick myself up off the floor, you're partying?

Do you think this is easy for me?

I thought I would grow old with the man I married.

And now I'm doing my best not to hit the floor.

Because if I go down, I won't get back up,

so to hell with that!

And if it's my dirty washing, I couldn't care less.

All I'm saying is...the whole thing makes me really sad.

I know! And I'm sorry your childhood is over.

But perhaps it's time you finally grew up.

-That's it Suzie, girl. Stick to your guns.

-Hmm.

KNOCKING AT DOOR

Not interrupting, am I?

No, come in.

-Everything all right?

-Aye, aye, nothing major.

Whoa! She's a stunner. Is that the wife?

-Girlfriend.

-Even better.

-We're engaged.

-Spoilsport.

-Drink?

-Aye. Never too early for me.

My father has the same philosophy.

So, what can I do for you?

It's a bit embarrassing, really.

It's about somebody at the club. A doorman? Carl?

The guy I sacked this morning?

Aye, he's an old acquaintance of mine, you know, school days.

-Cheers.

-Right. And?

He knows we have business dealings, so he's been on the blower,

he's all sorry and that,

hoping I could help him get his job back.

Look, I don't want to get involved, but the boy's got two weans

to feed, so I told him I'd put in a word.

And did he happen to mention why he got sacked?

Naw. Drugs, was it?

Naw. Ladies. "Of the night" variety.

But then, you know that.

This is down to you, isn't it?

It's bringing good business through your door.

I don't need that kind of business.

Look, I'm no' gonnae lie to you. It'd be a big loss of income to me

if you're going to be a killjoy.

I don't care how much it makes, it can't happen in my club.

Are you sure you don't want to reconsider?

Not in my club, Rick.

Not now, not ever. And I mean it.

Now, was that all?

Aye, well, I suppose you have to run things the way you see fit.

Cheers for the drink.

-What have you been saying to Greig behind my back?

-What, when?

In the close, apparently.

Why? What's he saying I said?

Frankie said she heard you telling him that I'm making a big mistake.

-Well, keep out of this!

-Ssshhh!

-This is my life, my choices!

And this is hard enough as it is, without you sticking your oar in.

You're not helping me.

Look, Frankie got it wrong.

I swear.

Look, I don't know what she thinks she heard, but she got it wrong.

Greig and I were just doing our usual, OK?

He was winding me up and I didn't see the funny side.

Ask him yourself.

Why is Frankie saying something different?

Why does she do half the things she does?

So, you never said any of those things?

No.

I don't know where Frankie got it from, but it wasn't from me.

ANNIE RECEIVES A TEXT Oh, I think I might have an idea.

It's Faith. She's given me her number.

Why?

I went to see her.

Annie!

Look, I can't talk about it here. Come on.

She's not in the cafe.

Well, she's no' in there, either.

I feel awful.

If only you'd told us before, we would never have let her go.

You two head home.

There's no reason why you should be chasing around Shieldinch

on my behalf.

I made that promise to that girl.

Oh-ho! What're you promising now, Sir Galahad?

To help her with her accommodation.

Looks like she doesn't want your help!

But she needs it.

And so do I.

Ooh, Jiminy Cricket chirping loudly on the old shoulder, is he?

Yes, Molly.

I admit it. I don't want to let another young person down.

Not again.

I want a chance, maybe, to right some of my past wrongs.

Is that so terrible of me?

Oh, how can it be?

What was the plan, bringing her to the flat?

-Well, it was only for a night at the most...

-Oh, no, no.

Jules is a sweet lassie,

but I cannot have a teenager living on my sofa.

-But Molly...

-No.

We put you up when you had nowhere else to go.

That's where my charity ends.

Is someone looking for somewhere to stay?

Yes. Jules Belmont. A lovely wee girl.

She's desperate for a roof over her head.

Well, if she doesn't mind living above a pub,

she's welcome to our spare room. Would she be interested?

I'm sure she'd be delighted.

Oh, fabulous. Well, tell her to pop by whenever suits.

I will!

Now I've just got to find her.

I mean, she talks tough, but she's scared.

Well, there's no point in getting her to go to the police, then.

Won't they protect her, though?

If they can.

But it's going to be her word against some very violent people.

Well, then, she could just stay with me, then.

Annie, you can't do that. You hardly even know this girl.

Yeah, but I can't just give up on her, without trying.

She came here to teach, Lorna.

She came here illegally.

She has no rights.

There's no point.

Then, how does she get rights?

If she got asylum status, but that could take months.

She told me that she can't go home.

So, can we try that?

I suppose...

Does that mean you'll talk to her?

Come on, please.

Look, just at least make her see that she's got choices.

-She's got no-one else.

-OK.

I'll talk to her, if she's willing to talk to me.

Thank you.

Sorry about what I said.

You'd think I'd be used to Frankie's ways by now.

Yeah, well, don't give her too hard a time, eh?

I remember you were a bit of a drama queen at that age.

-Look who's talking!

-Mm.

-I'll see you later.

-See you later.

Anyone on there for me?

This isn't for your eyes, trust me.

Oh, I trust you.

It's me you don't trust.

We're more alike than you think.

So, come on, spit it out.

Something happened last night.

The guy ran off.

I was left standing there with his drink in my hand.

Oh, no, Robbie.

And then he posted afterwards and said I was "Not As Advertised".

It was so humiliating.

Well, he's probably just some little idiot who treats it like a game.

But it is a game, Mum. That's what I'm trying to tell you.

How you advertise yourself is everything.

Well, I'm not advertising. I'm re-branding.

Maybe you should, too.

I'm not sure what it is I want any more.

And soon, it's going to be too late. Game over.

Oh, nonsense! Look at your father.

Oh, I hate to say it, but if he can find true love at 65,

then so can you.

And so can I.

Nothing's over till it's over.

Mm.

Just at least meet her, Faith. OK? That's all I'm asking.

Even if it's just for half an hour.

Yeah, but... but if you didn't want help,

then why did you text me your number?

Great.

Look, just text me where you want to meet, OK?

I'll be there later.

You won't regret this. I promise.

I've been looking for you.

I couldn't stay. I scared them to death!

And I haven't totally run out of friends yet.

But what if I were to tell you that I've found you a room?

At the Tall Ship.

Thanks, Alasdair, but I can't afford that.

No money required.

What's the catch?

No catch. Suzie says you can have her spare room.

No charge.

-Seriously?

-Mm.

Look, I don't need pity.

It's not that.

It's free until you get back on your feet.

Why are you doing this?

You hardly know me.

I'm not being totally selfless, I can assure you.

Maybe there are some things I can't change,

even if I wanted to...

..but helping you means I can sleep at night.

Should you not be getting ready?

I'm not going down.

I don't want you upset.

I won't be.

Come on. Let's go downstairs and have a great time.

SHE SIGHS

Hmm!

-Oh...

-Oh, yeah.

There's not going to be enough.

Yeah, there is.

Look, just spread that last bit out, go on, right up to the edge.

There you go, see?

Now, put it to the side until the oven's ready.

Simple.

I don't know why you're sucking up to her.

It shouldn't be you in the doghouse.

it should be Auntie Annie, if anyone.

Why do you say that?

Because she's slagging you off to Mum, isn't she?

No. She's looking after her sister.

Well, that's what you women do.

Now, go on, turn the oven to 180.

-That's you.

-But you even said it.

I heard you talking...

-about the text to Andy.

-Frankie, just...

Keep out of this, please.

OK? It's parent stuff. Thank you.

But say if, like...

..if Mum were to leave...

Yeah, it's not up for public discussion, Frankie,

so if you could just drop it. DOOR OPENS

'Hi!'

Daddy, look what I made!

Oh, what's this?

That's you!

Oh, check you out! You're a proper little Picasso, aren't you?

Oh, you're a child genius, so you are.

Right, darlin', go and put your stuff away

and get your wee hands washed.

Oh, and, Katie, we've made you your favourite for dinner tonight -

-Shepherd's pie.

-Yuck!

I like pizza.

-Pizza(!)

-You've made us dinner!

And to what do we owe the pleasure?

Dunno, you tell me.

Frankie!

I know...

none of this is easy on any of us.

Especially not Frankie and...

I guess we've all got to let some steam off, somehow.

I know I have a lot to be grateful for.

I do.

And for what it's worth...

..I'm really sorry.

So, is this true? Free drinks for divorcees?

One. And only one.

Nothing for you. Somebody's got to want to marry you first.

-I was, once. Actually.

-What?

-Married. Aye.

And divorced.

Twice, I think.

You think?

I scarpered, before she wanted any money,

so who knows?

Second time was in Vegas, but that doesn't count.

What are the rules here?

Because, technically, I should have two free drinks,

because I've been divorced twice.

And what about the twice widowed? Surely that deserves a double.

Right, stop it, the lot of you,

or you'll be wearing your first drink as aftershave.

Jules is here.

Oh, she looks delightful.

Now, that'll be £75 a week all-in.

Oh...

I didn't think there'd be any rent. I thought it might be...

What? For free?

Oh, stop it!

Oh...

Oh, first drinks are one thing, but lodgers?

I'll pay!

On one condition - you don't tell Jules.

Why ever not?

She needs a helping hand, but she's proud.

So, our secret, please?

Oh, you're a kind man, Alasdair.

£75 a week, or £300 at the end of the month.

Up to you.

There's some serviettes in the drawers, there, as well.

Where are we - Downton Abbey?

HE CHUCKLES

Are you going out?

Dinner's nearly ready.

You guys can go ahead.

I'll just heat it up when I get back in.

Why, where are you going?

Only to Annie's.

I promised her I'd see that girl that I told you about.

She's coming over this evening. Annie texted.

Told you.

What's that meant to mean?

Nothing. She's just got a stupid idea in her head.

It's not stupid. Annie's a stirrer.

If anyone is a stirrer, it's you.

How, exactly?

Making out that they were arguing on the stairs,

-when they've done no such thing.

-What's this?

She said that Annie told you

that I was making a big mistake taking you back.

Is that true?

Go on, Dad. Tell her.

I told you, darlin',

me and your Auntie Annie, we were just messing around.

-You just took it the wrong way, that's all.

-Dad.

There's nothing to it, Frankie.

Fancy meeting you here.

Oh, Frankie. Look, I don't have time...

Why do people lie? Lie to people's faces?

-What?

-It's to cover something up, isn't it?

-Well, who's lying?

-You.

-Me?

-Yes. You and my Dad.

-Look, Frankie, I...

-You're lying through your teeth.

I don't have time for this, OK? I need to meet someone.

"The biggest mistake of your life." That's what you said.

That's what you were talking to my dad about on the stairs.

Well, you must have misheard.

Now, I've got to meet someone, OK? and it's urgent.

What was the big mistake, Annie?

I was talking about your mum, OK?

and I'm sorry if that upset you.

No, you weren't. Otherwise, why would my dad lie?

Why would he cover for you?

I heard it right. There was no joke.

Look, I don't know what you think you heard, OK?

but when I was talking about "that night",

I was talking about the night your mum took your dad back.

What happened "that night", Annie? Something with my Dad?

No. No, look, I...

You argued with him like he was your ex lover.

Now you're being ridiculous.

You know, he's given me his side of things.

How you're hiding feelings for him.

How you came onto him.

Now, that IS a lie!

-You slept with him.

-No.

I know, Auntie Annie. You can't deny it now.

I didn't, OK?

-I'm not...

-Don't embarrass yourself.

Stop it.

What about Mum?

Are you going to tell her or should I?

Tell her what?

You've made up another story...

another lie?

Who's going to believe you, Frankie?

Look at you.

It's written all over your face.

Frankie!

Ahem!

Oh, this is much cheerier, isn't it?

Aye, we'll be dancing together next.

Oh, see? We may be single, my darling, but we're not alone.

Is it OK if I take my stuff up?

Yes, of course, my dear. It's on the left.

Make yourself at home.

What's that about?

Our new lodger. I told you we weren't alone.

Ugh!

It's not for me.

Oh, thank heavens you're still here.

Look, I'm so sorry that I'm late.

I'm not coming with you.

Look, I know you're nervous, OK? It's understandable.

Who do you think you are?

You know nothing about my life

and you think you can walk into it with your expensive heels

and easy answers - and what?

Save me?

But..you're ill.

I haven't asked to be saved.

ENGINE STARTS

Go save African babies

or adopt a donkey or whatever you ladies do...

..but stay away from me!

You are not needed.

Shieldinch is the swinging capital o' Glesga!

But not Cassie and Angus, surely?

Since when do you like swing music?

You don't know everything about me.

Oh, look at that rock!

Have you told AJ?

It's not like you to be stuck for words.

Please, Amber, I need your help. I'm in trouble.

When were you going to tell me this Fraser character's back in town?

If Lenny sees you, he will try and take her off you.

Can you take me home, please?

Um, sorry to bother you, boss, but I've got a bit of a situation.