Coffee Shop
Harold introduces Vera (his new assistant) to Paul, Christina, Caroline and Adam who are sitting at a table having their lunch. Paul jokes that Harold is a slavedriver!
Caroline asks Christina if she's going to come on the double date with Rory. Christina isn't sure because she hasn't met Rory yet! Caroline and Adam think Christina will like him though - he's very charming. Paul thinks Rory sounds a bit of a worry and walks off.
Gemma and Matt's flat
Madge has popped around to see Gemma for a cup of tea. The flat is rather dingy and dark, but Gemma says she's quite happy in it. Madge apologises for nagging her so much about Matt and the exams - if she wants to come back to Ramsay Street, she's very welcome. Gemma thanks her for the offer. She'll give Tom a ring in the morning to tell him what's going on.
Matt comes in and is a bit shocked to see Madge but relieved that she hasn't come to argue!
No.22
Christina has got the magazine with her modelling photos in them and is very pleased with them. Caroline is impressed too - there's a whole photo of Chrissie in there because the shoe company also sell handbags and belts. Also, she's got another job on the next catalogue.
CAROLINE: I should never have doubted you!
CHRISTINA: No, you shouldn't have!
(Later)
Adam and Rory are waiting for the twins to be ready for their double- date. Paul comes in and asks where Christina is - he's brought some food home as a bit of a celebration for the modelling, and to apologises for taunting her about the peanut job. He didn't know she was going out and looks a bit disappointed.
Christina comes down and Rory compliments her on her dress. Paul compliments her too. They all leave, leaving Paul standing on his own in the middle of the living room.
Gemma and Matt's flat
Gemma has been cleaning the flat. Matt asks why Madge was being so nice before - she thinks Madge has just seen the error of her way. She's not looking forward to telling Tom though. Gemma is a bit worried about money because of the traffic fine. Matt says they can dip into their holiday money, but Gemma reminds him that they've already used half of that. She's going to get a job straight after the exams.
The loud music starts up again and Gemma sighs - this place is starting to drive her crazy!
No.24
Madge is sitting in a quiet house when Harold comes in. He has been to grief counselling and found it reasonably helpful. It was good to meet other people who had been through the same thing. Apparently they've advised him to distract himself with physical activities, such as sports etc. Also to show physical affection, but he didn't like hugging the other members of the group! Madge says he's being silly - he is allowed to hug anyone he likes.
Madge admits that she's had a bit of a cry tonight - she's been feeling a bit old and lonely since Gemma moved out. She asks Harold to give her a hug!
No.22
Paul is asleep on the sofa when Christina and Rory come home. They've had a great time at the restaurant and are obviously rather drunk. When Christina is in the kitchen, Rory asks Paul to give him and Christina "some space". Rory and Christina drink another toast while Paul rolls his eyes.
No.24
Harold tells Madge that Vera is getting on well at the Coffee Shop, although she's quite timid. Gemma and Matt pop around to use the phone to ring Tom. Before she does, Harold tells Matt and Gemma that he and Madge will always be there for them and wants them to come to him if they're ever in trouble. Then he gives them both a hug (he's obviously practising!!) Harold then hugs Madge goodbye, and goes to the door...but then comes back for another hug!
Coffee Shop
Melanie tells Gemma how well Christina is doing with her modelling. Harold comes over and introduces a shy Vera and gives her a hug around the shoulder. Harold gives Melanie a hug goodbye!
There is a crash in the kitchen, so Harold runs off.
MELANIE: This place is definitely weird!
Matt comes in and sits down with Gemma. They chat about the loud music at the flat and Tom's reaction (not good!) Gemma says she's 18 now and she can live her life as she likes!
No.28
Rory tells Adam that he doesn't know which twin he likes the most!
ADAM: Are you going out with Chrissie again?
RORY: I hope so, but there's some pretty heavy competition in the field!
ADAM: Yeah? Who from?
RORY: Mr Jealous. Hot- shot Paul Robinson.
ADAM: What? Paul's not interested in Chrissie.
RORY: Think again, mate. You saw how he reacted to her going out with me.
ADAM: There's nothing going on...it's common knowledge.
RORY: That doesn't mean he's not interested. Trust me, Adam, I understand these things. Paul fancies Chrissie and that's a fact.
ADAM: Yeah...he did make a few comments last night, come to think of it. I thought he was just being protective of Chrissie as a friend!
RORY: Hardly.
ADAM: Well, what are you going to do? Back off?
RORY: Have you ever known me to back off?! Paul Robinson may have some devious strategy up his sleeve - he probably does. But it doesn't worry me - there's nothing I enjoy more than a good challenge.
Coffee Shop, the following morning
Vera hasn't turned up for work. Tom has apparently had a go at Madge for "allowing" Gemma to move out. Harold hugs Madge. Paul comes in and says that Harold needs to cut down the hugging - it's making people feel uncomfortable. He's had a call from Vera to say she's resigning - she thinks Harold has been overly physical with her. Harold protests but Paul says Vera's sister has already reported him for sexual harassment!