26/08/2021

Jazzer wonders why Tracy’s going to so much effort preparing a meal for Russ and Lily. Tracy explains it’s to thank Russ for his help with sourcing learning support for Chelsea. She also wants to ask Lily’s advice on how to encourage Chelsea to knuckle down to her studies. Lily thinks the last eighteen months must have been strange for Chelsea; at her age friends are your world. Lily envies Chelsea; she didn’t have a gang of friends like that. When Lily suggests good old-fashioned bribery as a tactic on Chelsea, the only thing that Tracy can think of is driving lessons. But Tracy can’t afford those. Lily suggests that Tracy could teach Chelsea, which Tracy thinks is a genius idea! Jazzer however isn’t so convinced and thinks it’s a recipe for disaster. That doesn’t put Tracy off – it will be a chance for her to spend quality time with Chelsea.

Things don’t begin well when Susan and Neil go for their surprise meal at Grey Gables. When Neil marvels at the redecoration, Susan retorts it was only done because of the explosion that could have have killed her daughter and sister. Despite champagne, things continue to go downhill as they struggle to make small talk – especially when Neil mentions Shula. Tearful Susan says there’s something wrong with them – they can’t even have a conversation. She wants to go home. Later when Neil suggests snuggling up on the sofa, Susan says she’s tired and is going to bed.