Episode 29 Waterloo Road

-It's a disaster.

-Waterloo Road will be taken over by the local authority.

I'd like you to be acting head teacher, Christine.

You leave my daughter alone.

Sorry, Mrs Barry, but I've got nothing against you.

It's obvious, you think we're scum.

I recommended you because I think you'll be a great leader.

The job's yours, Christine.

-Any sign of improvement?

-I swear I saw something.

A little flicker, when I told him what you were doing for him.

Were we a success?

We built this place up from nothing.

And these kids have a safe place to learn and grow, so yes.

I'd say we were a success.

We're here today to witness and celebrate

the marriage of Connor Mulgrew and Imogen Stewart.

I got us on the Julian Noble show.

Called them, told them our story. They want us on.

I think Julian can help us sort out this mess.

The whole country gets to see

what a car crash of a mother you are on TV?

What one?

Why don't you just wear what you normally wear?

-You look like you're going to court.

-Well, I might as well be.

As far as I'm concerned, my mum's on trial.

You should start getting ready, the car's going to be here in an hour.

You're not wearing that.

Look, I don't even want to come, let alone be on telly.

I'm only doing this for you.

I've got to call their bluff, Kevin.

I just don't think that you and your mum having a scrap

on the Julian Noble Show is going to be the key to our future.

Me mum's a massive fan of Julian Noble. She'll listen to him.

And if she doesn't, then she'll just expose herself for what she is.

There's no way a studio audience is going to side with her.

Who cares what they think?

This whole thing, it just...it's going to be embarrassing.

Black skinnies, grey shirt, bit of product, and you'll be sweet.

Feeling OK about today?

As OK as I'll ever be.

You'll have to make your own way in, though.

I want to be there early on my first day.

-I'm sorry.

-You can finish it if you want.

Sorry.

I know you're nervous. It's a big deal, bagging the head's job.

Didn't exactly "bag it," did I? It was more of a consolation prize.

You've hardly mentioned Michael since he left.

What's to mention?

He didn't want to be with me any more, so...end of.

Thanks for caring, though. I might not be lucky in love,

but I've got a good one when it comes to sons. Now.

I'm going to my meetings, so don't worry about me drinking, OK?

Right, wish me luck, I'm going in.

You'll be great, Mum.

SHE SIGHS

What do you think, too much?

Oh, it's the telly, Kacey. All them lights and whatnot...

Dunno why you want to drag everything up on TV.

It's family. The least you could do is come and support us.

I'm having nothing to do with it.

-I'll...catch you at the studio.

-Bye, love.

I thought he was going with you?

You know Barry. He's seen an opportunity.

15 minutes, tops, you lot.

Thanks, Tom, sorry to leave you to it.

Did the hospital say how long you'd be?

No, just that they want to review Grantly's situation.

-Something's wrong, Tom. I know it.

-He's in a coma, that's what's wrong.

Look, if anything had happened

they wouldn't call it a review, would they?

I suppose so. Hey, might even be good news!

That's the spirit. Go on, I'll explain to the office.

Hey, not so fast. What about your breakfast plates?

We don't want to be late for school, Mr Clarkson.

Your diligence is commendable,

but you've got plenty of time to clear up after yourselves, so do it.

We've missed the bus now anyway.

Cheers, on you go.

£5 to watch the Barrys make a fool of themselves?

I thought it was £3.

Yeah, but they only allocated us 25 seats in the audience.

I've still got to cover the cost of the bus, and the fuel.

If you're not interested, then somebody else will be.

Come on, Libs, it's a day off, it'll be a laugh.

Fine.

Thanks. Cheers.

Look, I don't feel right

stabbing my mum in the back on the first day of the job.

Well, I wouldn't go myself, but...I promised Dynasty.

No, no, it's cool. I understand, go.

Oi! Are you in or what? I've got a tight schedule to keep.

Just tell Kev to keep a low profile.

Let the Barrys slug it out amongst themselves.

Come on! Come on! Come on!

Thanks very much.

Here you go.

Oh. You again?

Apparently, Mr Windsor has become a permanent member of our team, now.

Breathe slowly, and the excitement will abate.

We were missing a modern languages teacher.

Well, I was missing a job.

This nothing to do with you being old pals with the new head, I suppose?

I hear you're introducing Mandarin lessons.

Morning, everyone.

-Morning.

-Morning.

-Morning, Christine.

I see George has made himself at home.

Wherever I lay my hat...

Or mao zu, as they say. That's hat in Mandarin.

I didn't know you spoke Mandarin.

She doesn't, or she wouldn't have mispronounced it - mao zi.

Oh, sorry. I was trying to be friendly.

I'm already married, Audrey, but nice try.

So, thanks, everyone, for hanging on a few minutes.

As you know, I've stepped into the breach, now Michael's gone.

As...head teacher.

I know there's always a settling-in period,

and, uh, Michael's departure wasn't exactly clear-cut.

But it's business as usual,

and please do come and speak to me if you've got any concerns.

BELL RINGS

You're going to regret saying that.

There's nothing teachers like to do more

than to express their concerns.

Look, I know it must be hard after your own brief tenure as head.

Trust me, Christine, the job's all yours,

and good luck, you're going to need it.

Come and see me in my office after registration.

There's a few things we need to iron out.

You OK finding your feet today, George?

Think I'll manage.

Never thought I'd see my old drinking buddy in the top job.

A word of warning, though. Ten years in an international school

in Shanghai is pretty cushy, compared to this place.

Well, I'm looking forward to getting my hands dirty again.

And let's face it, Harrow didn't have a vacancy this term.

DOCTOR: Can we have a word in here, please, Mrs Budgen?

HE CLEARS THROAT

Has something happened, Doctor?

Well, your husband remains in a coma, Mrs Budgen.

And we've tried every treatment possible,

but his condition, it's...not improving.

OK, but it's not deteriorating, is it?

No. No, no. But the bigger picture, it's not hopeful.

We've explored every option

and now we have to discuss...limiting his treatment.

"Limiting?"

Taking him off the ventilator. I am really very, very sorry.

I'm not even listening to this.

You're aware of the fact that we have a donor ready and waiting?

-Mrs Budgen, I do appreciate...

-No. No, you don't.

But it doesn't really matter either way,

because I'm not consenting to anything.

But it would be better all round if we could come to, uh,

an understanding.

I don't...understand any of this.

Right, so, I'll tell you what I'm going to do.

I'm going to go visit my husband, and then I'm going to go to work.

Five minutes, OK?

-Then you have to join the rest of the audience.

-Hey.

Oh, babes! I'm made up you've come. I'm terrified now I'm actually here.

-You don't have to do this, you know.

-He's right.

I do. Or I've lost.

-In what way is this a competition?

-Why don't you understand??

No, thanks. I'm...I'm only here for moral support.

Just in case, eh? We'll want you to say something.

Hi. I'm Julian.

I just wanted to pop my head round, put you at ease.

I think it's, um,

a really brave thing to deal with your problems like this, um.

And um, I...I just wanted you to know that I'm not here to judge.

OK?

Mrs Barry. This is wrong.

Dynasty's been through a lot recently.

She doesn't need all that on the telly. Please call this off.

Excuse me. He's threatening me already, we've not even started yet.

-Let's save it for the cameras, yeah?

-No, look, I'm, just...trying...

Hi, I'm Julian. I just wanted to say hello.

Please, sit down.

You need to take your seat in the audience now.

No. You can't go. I can't do this on my own.

-In what way are you on your own?

-You know what I mean.

And I just want you to know that I'm not here to judge.

That's the third call about a stomach bug going round.

Great, let's hope it doesn't hit the staff.

We're already down with Ester leaving.

Yeah, well, you're going to have to make time to help

with all this council stuff, Mrs Mulgrew.

There's the electronic registration forms for all pupils, and we've got

to commit to regular parent council meetings.

That's just for starters. I can't manage on me own.

I'm not asking you to, Sonya.

Let's try and make some time this afternoon.

Nikki.

Look, I'll keep this brief.

You and Tom are currently joint deputy heads.

Currently. Nice.

And I'd like it to stay like that if it's possible.

But I know we've had our differences in the past,

and there's no point in denying that, is there?

Don't worry, I'm leaving by the end of term anyway.

Sorry?

I'm not pandering to any power game. Especially not with you, Christine.

It's not a power game!

I'm just saying, it won't go well if resentments are harboured.

Look. Let's just give it a week or two, at least.

I'd rather serve out my notice being able to speak my mind, thank you.

Well, I wouldn't have it any other way, Nikki.

Really? All right. George Windsor, for instance.

He's a rare find for a school like this. I had to persuade him...

Christine! He's a total misogynist.

I'd say more a misanthrope, but let's not split hairs. Look.

He's entitled to his opinions, and if he crosses any lines,

I will deal with it as I would with any other member of staff.

See, that's the problem. I don't think you will

because, quite honestly, I don't think you've got the clout.

Is that "speaking my mind" enough for you?

KNOCK ON DOOR

Yes?

Sorry to interrupt. Imogen Stewart's mum's here.

She wants to see you.

Well, no, tell her to make an appointment.

Well, I've told her.

This won't take a minute.

Then you can relax, have a drink, start a fire -

whatever takes your fancy.

But you'll be doing it without my daughter.

I'm removing her from Waterloo Road.

I'll leave you to it.

What exactly is the problem, Mrs Stewart?

Well, I'm hardly going to spell it out, am I?

I was going to phone the council, but I'm not waiting six weeks

for them to tell me it's none of my business.

Imogen can finish out the week and then I'm moving her to Havelock,

and I've told every member of the parent council exactly why

they should be doing the same.

Look, I know you don't approve of them, but Imogen

and Connor seem pretty committed regardless of what we might think.

Are you saying that Imogen is still in contact with your son?

Were you not aware of that?

Ah. I need to speak to you and Imogen.

-Was that Imogen's mum?

-Where is Imogen?

I could ask him the same thing. In fact, half my class are missing.

Yours as well, Tom?

Apparently, most of the sixth form have come down with a mystery virus.

Yeah. It...it might be a boycott, I'm afraid.

About what?

Me. Mrs Stewart wants to remove Imogen from Waterloo Road.

Apparently, she's not overly keen on me being the head

and she's been stirring it up with the other parents.

I think they might have kept their children at home...

No, Mum! That's nothing to do with why everyone's not here.

OK, Connor. What's going on?

INTRO MUSIC PLAYS

OK, this is it now, everybody.

Please give a big round of applause for Mr Julian Noble!

Good morning, and welcome to Noble Thoughts with me,

Julian Noble, where we go round the country

trying to put broken families back together.

Now, sometimes it's not possible. Sometimes, it's a beautiful thing.

But always, it's got to be worth trying.

CROWD APPLAUD

Now, today we're in Glasgow.

Our guests are a family from Greenock

who've stopped communicating because, as mum Carol says,

"My daughter's boyfriend has poisoned her mind".

AUDIENCE BOO

Let's bring Carol out, shall we? Carol!

CROWD APPLAUD

Carol, thanks for coming. Watch your step up there.

Any one of those, lovely. Make yourself comfortable.

I thought this was about you and your mum.

Don't bite the bait, babes. What can she say?

Are you sure Audrey's the right person to send?

I need to stay at the helm on my first day.

Audrey, just explain that whatever Carol Barry has

planned for her kids, no-one - I mean no-one else -

has permission to be off school premises.

Don't you worry, leave it to me.

Maybe I should go, warn Imogen about Mrs Stewart.

You're going to stay right here and explain to me why you lied.

You two said you'd tell her about the wedding.

Look, Imogen just kept bottling it.

Did you think I wouldn't find out?

-I was going to invite her over!

-You've seen what she's like.

Maggie! >

How is he?

Same. No change.

Hey, come on, he's going to be OK.

Come on, Maggie. Let's get you inside.

Have they given you a time frame?

No. And I'm not listening to any of it.

Maggie, I know it's hard, but we can't ignore what...

We? We aren't doing anything, Tom. I am.

I'm standing up for the man I love.

Unlike his so-called friend, I'm not prepared to give up on him!

I didn't say any such thing.

You know, I bet that this is just the news you've been praying for, isn't it?

So you don't have to go through with the transplant.

It's the perfect solution!

You're off the hook without having to back out yourself.

Halo still intact.

Come on! Maggie looked dead worried.

It must be something bad.

He's just another cost to them, isn't he, eh?

He's taking too long to get better. So they're calling time!

What do you mean, "calling time?"

She means pulling the plug on him, don't you, Maggie?

It's...complicated.

I think Maggie needs another meeting with the consultants.

No, I don't.

Mr Budgen is getting better,

so there's absolutely nothing to worry about.

Now. I believe I've got a class to prepare for.

So, Carol, what is it about Dynasty's boyfriend that worries you?

Well he's got a, um, a personality disorder, from what I can make out.

What?!

He's arrogant, manipulative. He's got these delusions of grandeur.

I mean, he's been in and out of care most of his life,

and he's got my Dynasty wrapped round his little finger.

Kevin is a kind, considerate person.

And he cares about me and me future, unlike you!

Oi, you, get off me!

Carol's daughter, Dynasty, everyone.

CROWD APPLAUD

She wanted me to quit school and get a job as a pole dancer.

Oh, come on, come on, I'm sure that's not the case.

Er, seriously, ask her!

She's taking it out of context.

Mum. You'd sooner I married a criminal, like me dad,

-than choose me own boyfriend.

-Watch your mouth.

That's right, your father's in prison, isn't he?

He was stitched up!

It was armed robbery!

Look, I'm not denying my husband's made mistakes,

but he's paying for them,

and in the meantime I'm putting food on the table

and clothes on me children's backs, which is more than she'll be able

to do if she ends up with a monster student loan from some poncy "uni."

Oh, come on, Carol, to be fair,

most parents would like their kids to go to university, wouldn't they?

See, this is what he's like.

He wants you to believe he's got her best interests at heart,

but no, he wants her away from her family

because we're a threat to his control.

Mum. You are unbelievable.

The truth is, Dynasty's never really had the grades for uni.

-Until now.

-Where's it going to get her, eh? Up to her eyeballs in debt

and out of the job market for three more years.

-That's for me to choose.

-But it's not, though, is it, babe?

It's been put in your head by the puppet master

so he could drag you halfway across the country.

Like he's not already isolated you enough as it is?

So, is he a manipulative home wrecker,

or just a kid who wants his girlfriend to go to university?

Shall we get Kevin out here and see what he has to say for himself?

CROWD APPLAUD

I think so.

Don't be fooled. Don't buy it.

CHANTING Home wrecker, home wrecker!

OK, Kevin, thanks for coming on, very brave of you.

Pop up there, let's hear your side of the story, yeah?

CHANTING CONTINUES Home wrecker, home wrecker!

Look, if you won't let me remove them from the audience,

then at least could I join them, and I could supervise?

All right, then.

Oh, thank you. Appreciated.

CHANTING CONTINUES Home wrecker, home wrecker...

Leave him alone!

Why are you keeping me away from me daughter?

OK, let him, let him speak. We're not here to judge, OK?

It's Miss McFall.

So, Kevin, what exactly is your problem?

It's clear you've taken against Carol.

-No, no, no, I don't...

-And why wouldn't he?

She's been against him from the start because he's not one of us.

What have I done except love you too much, eh?

What have I done except try to protect you?

Protect me? You set me up with a rapist!

AUDIENCE GASP

-Uh, right, OK, I, I don't think we should, um...

-No, that's true.

It wouldn't have happened if she'd been at home with us!

-Let's get out of here. Now.

-Yeah, Kevin, sit down.

Uh, I think the main thing, ah,

we're learning is that there's clearly a breakdown

in communication between mother and daughter on a very basic level.

I don't want to communicate with her any more, Julian,

not after the way she's treated me.

Look, Dynasty, I know I'm not perfect, OK?

But I love you so much. I'd do anything for you.

Can't you see you're breaking my heart?

Excuse me. Mum!

Ah, Dynasty's brother, Barry Barry.

AUDIENCE BOO

You'll pay for this.

Is that a threat? He just threatened me!

All right, Kevin.

Get off, Barry Barry, you're an idiot!

Right, that's enough. What on earth do you think you're doing?

You...oh!

AUDIENCE SNIGGER

Oi! What do you think you're doing?

That's only Mr Budgen's classroom, innit!

Sorry, are you speaking English?

He's only off sick, you know. He's coming back!

Yes, and in the meantime,

I'm using his classroom to teach modern languages,

as designated by the head teacher, and not a couple of kuan lu.

-You what?

-Ignorant pack donkeys.

And what do you think you're doing with his things, man?!

OK, I've enjoyed our little chat,

but it's probably time that you ran along now.

Unless you're here to sign up for the Mandarin classes,

which I seriously doubt as you're

so clearly still struggling with the mother tongue.

What do you...? Where are you...? Leave that...

-Ah, my first exclusions. What fun.

-Come on, then.

Run, Harley, run!

No, please stop, this minute. Or you'll be in serious trouble.

Quick, Harley, he's following us!

Go in!

Oh God! Oh, I'm knackered.

-SHE LAUGHS

-Did you see his face?

Oh.

What's wrong? Oh, come here, you.

OK, I'm done playing now.

When you come out, you can clear your lockers.

Your parents will be very proud.

He could have come round ours to see Dynasty like normal people.

What? Barry said he'd have his legs broken!

Yeah, says Kevin. He had other plans for you, though, didn't he?

Mostly revolving round getting you into bed, no doubt.

-Kevin was a virgin when I moved in!

-Dynasty!

CROWD LAUGH

Was?

CROWD CHANT Virgin! Virgin! Virgin!

Shh! Shh!

Stop it!

Sonya said you wanted to see me?

Yeah. I'm just trying to get my head round the final schedule

you put together with Michael.

Yeah, well, change as you see fit. It's no secret you weren't a fan.

I don't agree with some of it, but you're more familiar

with the timetable as a whole, and we need to accommodate some

curriculum imperatives, now we're not an independent.

KNOCK ON DOOR

Sorry, Mrs Mulgrew, but I've had three calls from members

of the parent council asking to speak to you urgently.

Thanks.

And it seems you're not the only one with the vote of no confidence.

It's nothing personal.

Really?

"The job's all yours." "Good luck, you're going to need it."

You've had an attitude about me getting the job since you found out.

-What's your problem with me?

-Honestly?

I think this school needs strong, clear, leadership,

and...I'm not sure you've got the thick skin required for the job.

Oh, what, and you do?

I lasted a day, Christine, so what do you think?

But at least I didn't lose half of my sixth form.

Have you heard from Audrey yet?

She's not answering her phone.

Look, it's been a baptism of fire, I'll admit.

But we'd both get more done if we put our egos to one side.

I don't have an ego.

Good.

Because I'm new to this, I need to be able to ask for help.

Especially from my deputies. Nikki, look, if I fail, I fail.

But don't you think I deserve a chance?

KNOCK ON DOOR

-Sorry to bother you again, Mrs Mulgrew.

-Yes, Sonya.

But Mr Windsor says Rhiannon

and Harley have gone native in the cooler.

What's wrong with this picture?

He's in it!

Shut up, Barry. You're the last person that should be judging.

Don't hit each other, talk to each other, that's why you're here.

I wasn't going to hit him. That's Barry's speciality.

That and loan-sharking,

when he's not too busy sexually harassing teachers.

-Watch your mouth or I'll smack it.

-Get back to me when you've evolved.

Very sure of yourself, aren't you, Kevin?

But to be perfectly honest, you're coming across as a bit of a snob.

And you're quite the expert at splitting up families, aren't you?

He doesn't even know what family means.

Isn't it true that you're not exactly close with your own mother?

I don't, I don't even know where she is.

No. I do.

She's right here in this studio.

AUDIENCE GASP

And she's got a bone to pick with you, son.

Please welcome Daisy, Kevin's mum.

AUDIENCE APPLAUD

Now, Daisy, you haven't seen your son, Kevin, for some years now.

Why are you here today?

I agreed to come in because I can't stand by

and see another mother suffer because of him.

Because I know better than anyone how dangerous he really is.

AUDIENCE GASP

Come on, guys, this isn't the answer.

Just leave us alone.

I'm not wasting any more time

arguing with Free Willy and her little sidekick.

For Pete's sake, George, you can't go round calling pupils names!

I wouldn't worry, I'm sure she's cloth-eared as well as fat.

I mean it, George. I won't have it!

You don't know the first thing about Rhiannon Salt.

I've don't have any interest in either of them

given the fact they're about to be excluded the moment they step out.

-They're upset. I'll go and get Tom.

-You can do what you like, darling.

But I'm going to be registering a formal complaint.

I came here to teach, not to be attacked in the classroom.

And how about I register a formal complaint

about sexism in the workplace?

-Careful what you wish for, sweet cheeks.

-George!

Grantly Budgen is critically ill. Rhiannon and Harley board with him.

He's the only decent father figure those kids has ever known.

Come on, from what I hear, Budgen's an embittered old soak.

No disrespect to your good self, of course.

These are school kids, ergo they hate school teachers.

They've seen an opportunity and they've gone for it.

I mean, I may be new,

but I'm not going to fall for a load of old twaddle like that.

I know those children and their histories.

Now, I am head teacher, not some NQT from back in the day,

and this is not the same school.

Quite. Because the other school had some pupils in attendance,

whereas your entire sixth form seems to have gone missing.

I've said I'll deal with it, and I will.

And if you can't respect that, then we have a problem.

I'll keep it in house this once.

But I'll expect some apologies tomorrow.

Still glad you hired him?

Yes. Yes, actually, I am.

He's reminded me of what I'm doing here.

Now, go and fetch Maggie, tell her what's happened with Rhiannon

and Harley and she needs to speak to them.

Do you think it'd be better coming from you?

-It's a bit...sensitive, isn't it?

-You'll handle it.

If I'm not going to let George Windsor walk all over me,

I certainly won't let a bunch of Barrys.

Oh, and Nikki, if you're serious about your resignation,

I'd like it on my desk in writing by the end of the day, please.

Best to know where we all stand.

Even as a little boy he was overly possessive.

First toys, then people.

The temper on him if he couldn't get his way!

Little wonder his dad took off.

I did my best. Nothing was ever good enough for him.

This is wrong. She doesn't even know who I am any more.

Did I ever? My life turned into a nightmare because of him.

All down to his jealousy over me trying to make a life for us

with my second husband.

I won't pretend I wasn't glad when Kevin finally went off.

I didn't...I didn't "go off." Rob kicked me out.

And why was that?

Why was that, Daisy?

See, the social workers always blame the parents.

But there was no living with Kevin.

From the moment I met my new fella, he tried to split us up.

Telling us lies about each other, stirring it between us.

Sounds familiar.

Rhiannon, Harley, it's me.

If you think you're doing Grantly any favours by getting

ourselves expelled, then you can think again.

He's going to die, isn't he?

Come on, open the door, let me in.

Are you alone?

I am now.

And you're not lying?

No lying. I promise.

-Rob gave you a chance!

-I never even had a bed.

There was a perfectly comfortable sofa in the lounge.

Rob already had a houseful.

And like I said before, nothing was ever good enough for Kevin.

Well, let's be fair,

big changes like a new stepfather can be traumatic for a kid.

I was the one who was traumatised.

That movie, We Need To Talk About Kevin?

That could have been written for him.

Oh! And yes, before you ask, that includes murder.

AUDIENCE GASP

That's a pretty audacious claim.

It's true! He as good as murdered my unborn child.

She had a miscarriage.

You caused it! All that stress, day in, day out.

I didn't even know you were pregnant.

Oh, I doubt that very much, you were always lurking round corners,

your ears flapping, provoking people.

No wonder Rob lost his temper from time to time.

I mean, how much was he supposed to take?

Kevin wound him up to breaking point.

I was ten years old. I missed my real dad.

Whoa, whoa, ten? You kicked him out when he was ten?

Surely you can't blame a ten-year-old.

You drove your useless father away,

and then set about driving me to distraction.

I wish you'd gone with him in the first place.

-Daisy, come on!

-But even that good for nothing scumbag didn't want you,

because he knew what we all know,

you're worthless through and through and I wish you'd never been born!

Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa. I think...

I think you can stop right there.

Turn your cameras off. This circus has gone on long enough already.

You touch me and you'll have a lawsuit on your hands

as well as the very big problem of explaining why you have

half my school on your premises without permission.

Kevin? Kevin, come here.

No, no, I'm sorry, they've signed release forms

and everything, this is...

So they're open to public abuse, ridicule and humiliation?

They're children, for God's sake.

Barry, Dynasty, you clearly have your mother's permission

to be out of school, so I can't force you to come back.

But for the rest of you, you have one hour or you face exclusion.

All of you.

AUDIENCE GASP

I'm so sorry, I've been...

Barry, are you coming?

Go on, then. It's all right.

No, no, I'm sor...we haven't, haven't finished recording yet.

I have.

AUDIENCE GASP

Some people don't deserve kids.

Mrs Barry, we do not condone violence.

Christine, they wouldn't let me stop it.

Your mistake was asking. Imogen, you're coming with me.

-I'm sorry.

-What were you thinking?

You must have known the mum was a wacko. Brilliant. Great job.

She always blamed me for me dad leaving.

I was five.

She said...

I dunno. She said I was hyper. That's why he left.

Kevin, you were just a little boy.

Kids can be challenging and sometimes parents can't cope.

I just wish social services had stepped in earlier.

I wish she'd had that baby. I just wanted her to be happy.

She was all right when she was happy.

I just can't believe that's your mum.

I mean, I thought my mum was bad.

But she does love me, I've always known that.

Too right, I do.

And I don't want to lose you because of my own pig-headed stupidity.

Kevin, I'm so sorry.

You didn't stand a chance with her, did you, eh?

I can see now why you'd want to make a home with our Dynasty.

I just hope you see how destructive

dragging all this up on a cheap TV programme has been, Mrs Barry.

Give it a rest, Mother Teresa. I'm trying to say sorry.

And I want to be there for both of you.

I just...I just need to know I've not lost you, babe.

Looks like you've got everything covered here.

So I'll leave you to it.

Nice right hook, by the way.

Come back to ours for your tea.

You swear it's not a trick?

Oh, cut me some slack, Dynasty.

Look, I know you don't live there no more.

I just, I want to spend the evening with you.

Get to know Kevin a bit better.

We'd like that.

Good.

Imogen, I've asked your mum to stop by the school at the end of the day.

Eh? Why, what's happened?

It's what's not happened that's the question.

You haven't told your mother about Connor?

-How...?

-I'll explain in the car.

Hmm. I would have thought you'd have polished this off by now.

Well, we tried some.

It's proper minging!

Yeah, well, Grantly would have begged to differ.

Would have? So you're saying...

Would. I said would.

Do you think he's in pain?

I don't know, I don't think so, he's...

They're giving him painkillers.

I'm hoping it's just like he's asleep.

Oh, good. Least he's out of it. I mean, until he gets better.

Look, I said I wouldn't lie.

The only person I'm lying to is meself.

Grantly isn't going to get better.

I'm sorry.

You all right?

I'm so sorry. I never meant to say those horrible things.

I know.

Will you come with us? To the hospital?

Yeah. Of course.

Connor!

You. Stay away from my daughter, do you hear me?

No, Mum, you can't just...

I can do what I like, especially now I know you've been lying to me.

Um. Actually, no, you can't, Mrs Stewart.

Do what you like, that is.

Imogen is a person - a young adult.

She's 17, as is Connor.

And regardless of what you or I might want,

-they appear to have their own ideas.

-So it would seem.

You and that boy have been seeing each other all along, haven't you?

Well? Spit it out!

We're married.

SHE SCOFFS

It's true. We got married last term. In a registry office.

And there's nothing you can do to make that not true.

Let's go into my office, shall we? Get some privacy?

I've spoken to the doctor. It's all arranged.

Right.

Where are the kids?

They, uh...wanted to sit with him for a bit.

Is this really the only option?

If I want him to go with dignity, it is.

I cannae just watch him dissolve into nothing,

hooked up to a machine. Nah. Go and say goodbye to him.

MACHINES BEEP RHYTHMICALLY

Really?

Really, is this how it ends, you grumpy old bugger?

You should be kicking and screaming

and swearing your way out of the world.

We're the only ones left, you and me. Waterloo Road as was.

All those head teachers, and...all those kids.

Christine's the head, now.

Had a hell of a first day. I think she'll be all right.

She cares, you see?

Like you.

Not that you'd want anyone to know.

It's why those kids are out there now, breaking their hearts.

Don't worry, mate.

I'll keep putting your bets on. Sleep well.

Maybe you should take the kids back to the schoolhouse.

I think we'd all rather be here. If that's OK.

Doctor, can I spend a little time with him?

Please, take as long as you need.

You OK?

Night-night, flower.

Sleep tight.

Don't let the bedbugs bite.

I was fairly unimpressed when I found out what they'd done. But it is done.

Let's hope it's not a mistake, let's support them if it is.

Let's support them here and now, because this is where we're at,

and I for one don't want to lose my son.

I don't care about your son.

Then you don't care about me. You can't make me change schools.

-We'll move.

-You'll move. I'm staying with my husband.

We'll get jobs, apply for housing.

They won't have to. You can live with me.

I can't believe you're a mother, let alone head teacher here.

It's exactly because I'm both that I'm offering.

If Imogen had to move schools now, against her will,

how well do you think she'd do?

It could affect her future for ever.

Only today I watched a family nearly self-destruct

because the mother tried to control the daughter.

She didn't like her choice of boyfriend either.

Connor's a good kid, Mrs Stewart.

But even if he wasn't - don't you think we'd all be better off

if we didn't drive them away for good?

We've still got a lot of talking to do, Imogen.

But no more lies, OK?

If I'm going to be on board with this, I need to be included.

I promise.

Connor.

Mrs Mulgrew.

Please, call me Christine. After all, we're family now.

-Don't remind me!

-Oh, and, um...Sally?

I'm arranging a parent council meeting for the end of the week.

I'll be happy to answer any concerns you may have then in person.

Perhaps you could spread the word?

Thanks, Mrs Mulgrew.

You're totally epic.

I'll see you at home.

Excuse me!

-What?

-You as good as pushed me out of your way.

Well, I suppose you must have been in it. It wasn't intentional.

You really are an overbearing bully, aren't you?

I haven't got time for this.

It's your wife I feel sorry for, poor thing.

She must be either a saint, or she's stupid.

How dare you speak about my wife like that!

Either way, she's welcome to you.

HORN BEEPS

Yeah. Oh, just one second.

It's Jack MacAlister's mother on the phone.

She isn't exactly best pleased you've taken over from Mr Byrne.

Mrs MacAlister, I was just about to call you!

I'm afraid your son failed to turn up to school today.

Obviously he'll be given a detention, but I thought you should

be warned - truancy is a criminal offence on the part of the parent.

Now, we can discuss this at the next parent council meeting,

but in the meantime, I think

you'd be well advised to give Jack a stern talking to.

Thank you for calling.

Right. Well, get the kettle on, get the biscuits out,

and let's make a start on all that council paperwork.

Yes, boss! Oh, yeah, um, by the way, uh, Simon Lowsley phoned?

Never heard of him.

Dui bu qi, qin ai de. Wo bu zhi...

English, please, George. How am I going to learn, hmm?

-Anyway, your Mandarin sucks.

-Sorry.

School is so hard to find.

Well, I did say, my darling,

that I would find my own way home, didn't I?

But thank you, very sweet of you to come.

I wanted to pick you up, hmm? First proper day in new job!

So, how did it go?

Well, it's, um...a dump.

Um, full of filthy council estate rejects,

and Christine has turned into some kind of despot,

expecting me to kowtow...

What is it?

You blame me.

No! No, no, no, princess. No, we both needed a change.

Shanghai was too expensive, remember?

No, I don't want you to have trouble.

I'll get used to it. And we'll both get back on our feet.

And before you know where we are, we'll be moving into a big house,

with a swimming pool, just like Shanghai,

and you can have anything your beautiful heart desires.

How does that sound, princess?

All I want is to take care of my husband.

And so you do. I couldn't be luckier.

Good. So I booked a table at Chez Maurice tonight.

Really, darling? Chez Maurice? It's quite pricey, isn't it?

You said celebration. New beginning.

Well, yeah, I thought a bottle of wine, perhaps.

No. No, no, um...you're right, of course.

Dinner in a nice restaurant is a much better idea.

Princess loves her Georgie. For ever and ever and ever.

So. Now you close eyes and relax for the drive home. OK?

ENGINE STALLS

I said relax!

Sorry, sorry.

ENGINE STARTS

GEARS CREAK

Clutch, darling?

To be honest, I'm surprised you're not a psycho,

the way you've been treated.

Yeah, well, Chalky, Daniel Chalk, he looked after me.

-He's my family now.

-Yeah, and now he's flipping miles away.

That was down to me. He still comes back at weekends.

Yeah, well, from now on, when he's not here -

you got all the family you need, with us.

And Dynasty knows I don't say that lightly.

She doesn't say that lightly.

Yeah, I don't think Barry's going to be so happy about that.

Yeah, well, he's been told.

Yeah. I've got your back. It's law, now.

Thanks.

PHONE RINGS

Thanks.

Mr Clarkson?

-Just breast for me, Mum.

-Yeah, thought it would be.

So, do you think you're going to get, like, married now?

I'm too young for that.

What do you mean, too young? I was your age.

Mum, I want to go to uni.

Uni? Oooooh.

OK. I'll be there.

That went straight in her eye! Have some sauce.

Sometimes it's very quick, sometimes the patient will continue

breathing erratically for a short time.

I can't believe it. Mr Budgen's dead.

Yeah, I might stay the night at the schoolhouse,

given the circumstances.

Yeah. You should. I'll stay here, then.

I don't really want to be at Chalky's flat on me own.

Dynasty, I was thinking. Maybe we should move out of Chalky's.

I've seen you with your family.

And, yeah, they're not perfect or anything,

but they really care about you.

-Are you finishing with me?

-No! No, totally not! I love you!

You swear?

Cross my heart, I just want you to be happy.

But I think Maggie needs all the support she can get at the moment.

I guess we don't have to hide any more.

Now you're not the enemy.

Bye, love, don't be a stranger.

Thanks, Mrs Barry.

Look, you're lucky to have what you've got.

I think you should make the most of it.

Come here.

Kevin?

Hmmm?

I love you too.

See you.

KNOCK ON DOOR

Mm-hmm.

Peace offering? Instead of my resignation letter.

-Thank you.

-It's all right.

I'm so glad you've changed your mind.

And thanks for backing me with George today.

SHE LAUGHS

You've got your work cut out with that one.

We've got our work cut out.

I would like you to stay on as deputy if you're willing.

Deal.

And to be honest, I think a change bodes well for the future.

I think, well, Michael could be a little bit rigid at times.

Yeah, well, Michael's gone.

And I'll say it once in private - good riddance!

You sure you're all right?

But I will be.

We're better off without them, him and Lorraine.

We are!

KNOCK ON DOOR

-Christine?

-Can I help you?

Apologies, I tried calling to say I was running late.

I'm glad I haven't missed you.

Sorry, I...I don't understand.

Simon Lowsley. Your new deputy head.

Simon, I'm afraid there's been some mistake.

I've already appointed my deputies.

I was appointed last week, by Michael Byrne. I thought you knew.

Michael Byrne no longer works here.

I know, my appointment was part of his exit deal.

The council insisted. I can't believe they didn't tell you.

Talk about awkward turtle.

Doctor? How long?

It's his breathing.

But you said that it might...

Yeah, yeah, but not like this.

I can't explain it, but...for now, at least,

your husband's breathing on his own.

Ms Boston's given me the PRU reports for this year.

So this is a bust.

Kyle? Kyle Stack?

-And what a perfect time to break the news!

-What news?

The kidney transplant! You must be bursting to tell Grantly

you're giving him a new lease of life.

Let me formally introduce my new deputy alongside Tom, Simon Losley.

-That hurts!

-Now, did you run away or what?

-I've done my time!

-So what are you doing back here?

You on some kind of vendetta?

You're the one with the vendetta. I've got nowhere else to go!

He's not interested in this school.

He's not here to do his exams. He's here to cause trouble!

If that's the case, he'll be out on his ear.

You having second thoughts? About Grantly?

Second, third and fourth.

I can smell it on you. Prison.

Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd