12/01/2024

At Bridge Farm the family is gathered for Pat’s birthday tea. During the celebration, Natasha and Tom are furiously whispering about their idea of renting the 10 acres. Tom is reluctant but they’re forced to reveal their plan by Pat. Tony is furious, calling them selfish and out for their own gain. A shouting match ensues, with Helen struggling to be heard. Pat is upset, saying the row is exactly what Rob would have wanted. Natasha apologises, explaining that she thought Helen would be open to it after the things she said recently about moving on and taking the positive from a negative. Helen firmly asserts that she wants nothing to do with the land and she understands the impact that Rob has had on everybody. But she is adamant the boys will be raised as friends and brothers - she is determined to move on. If the family won’t allow that, then she will have to leave.

Oliver is showing Lily round the refurbished Grey Gables ballroom. She’s impressed by the state-of-the-art facilities. During the tour he reveals that management have given the go-ahead for her to start a placement. On her way out, she bumps into Brad who has just come from a job interview. They have an awkward conversation in which she tries to persuade him to stay at Lower Loxley. He’s clear he wants to take the job at Grey Gables, citing the benefits of gym membership and free meals. She offers him a lift back but he refuses, taking his chances with the rain.