07/12/2017

In the village shop Keira objects to Emma's choice of beans. Johnny plays along, pointing out the brand that he prefers. Outside, Emma angrily confronts him. He had no right to interfere - she doesn't want the inferior brand, but they're saving every penny for a house. Johnny tries to apologise, but Emma reminds him that he hasn't helped by taking Ed's job.

At Grey Gables Ian is preparing to launch the Christmas menu. Pip's late with the meat delivery, increasing his stress. Ian berates her for not answering her phone. Lexi thanks Pip on Ian's behalf, and Pip explains that she had a difficult appointment in town. The launch gets off to a splendid start. Ian starts to relax, until Brian tries to help by reassuring him that being infertile doesn't make him less of a man.

Ian avoids the crowds after the launch by staying to clean the kitchen, and tells Lexi about their scuppered baby plans. Lexi tries to reassure him that being unable to have children doesn't diminish anyone, but Ian can't help how he feels. Even if Adam fathered their baby, Ian always imagined having a child who reminded him of the mother he lost too young. Lexi helps Ian see that a child would learn his mother's positive qualities from him, whatever the circumstances.