16/12/2016

Johnny has shaved off his beard. Helen's heard about the fashion show and tries to console him by telling him that Amber has missed out on the loveliest young man in Borsetshire.

David is feeling delicate - yesterday he went to the NFU Christmas lunch as well as a wedding anniversary dinner with Ruth. When Ruth tries to discuss Christmas dinner, Pip reveals that she's spending Christmas Day with Toby in Rickyard Cottage. Ruth suggests she and Toby join the rest of the family, insisting David and Jill will be on their best behaviour, but Pip's mind is made up. Ruth tells David that they need to respect Pip's choice and they have to try to like Toby.

With only her and Johnny at home, Helen opens the door to Rob who has presents for Henry and Jack. He desperately wants to be part of their Christmas in some small way. Rob explains that he's been speaking to Alan, trying to make sense of what happened. Alan has made him see he needs to apologise. Helen wobbles. She takes the presents and agrees to think about giving them to the boys. But when Rob begs her to forgive him, Helen gains strength. They are over and he must know that. Helen shuts the door on Rob as Johnny comes into the room. He asks if she's OK and she tells him she's fine, absolutely fine.