23/01/2023

Frail Brian’s alone in his bedroom, ignoring his calls. Adam can’t persuade him downstairs. Tony and Lilian comfort one another. Lilian thanks Tony for breaking the news to Peggy. Tony confirms Peggy’s staying at Bridge Farm for now. Lilian observes their mum is looking small, her spirit drained away. The siblings agree it’s every parent’s worst nightmare to lose a child. Lilian’s brought back Jennifer’s belongings from the hotel. She couldn’t bear the thought of them being packed up by someone else. The others appreciate how hard this must have been, but Lilian says it gave her something to do. Adam hugs her. Alice can’t get in touch with Ruairi – she just hopes he’ll listen to his messages.
Tony goes upstairs to Brian, and makes the mistake of sitting where Jennifer usually sat. Brian snaps at him, before confessing he’s pleased Ruairi hasn’t yet had the news. He’s lucky – he can carry on a bit longer thinking Jennifer’s alive. Tony’s attempts at kind words aren’t met well, and Brian leaves the cottage. Adam goes after him, but not before Brian’s waylaid by Stella. Adam swiftly updates her, requesting space for the family. Sympathetic Stella confirms she’ll take care of the farm.
Alice collects Martha from Chris, taking comfort from her and appreciating Chris’s attentive kindness. She reassures him she knows what to do if she feels tempted to drink. She’s very worried Ruairi still doesn’t know what’s happened. She doesn’t have an address for him, though she’s sure she could find it. Chris offers to drive her to London tonight.