Breakfast with the McDonalds. Steve is snappy, Becky is meek and apologetic, Max looks from one to the other curiously. Steve is going to work with Lloyd, he tells Becky she'll have to do extra shifts, starting today. "But Tracy is working today," says Becky. "Is that a problem?" snaps Steve. Becky backs down and says it isn't.

Maria arrives at the factory, and she and Carla discuss her visit to Frank's house later. Carla dismisses Maria's idea of wearing something elegant and businesslike, and says that to keep him sweet she needs to wear something sexy, and sends her to town to buy something new and also to get her hair done. "Put it on expenses," she says.

Tracy walks into the pub, late for her shift. She and Becky snipe at each other until Steve walks in. Tracy tells him everything's fine, so he offers her more shifts which she accepts with a smile. As he goes off to Streetcars, Tracy plants a kiss on his cheek, and then smirks at Becky.

Gail goes into the salon for a chat with Audrey about David. Audrey isn't worried, they're not wed yet, and she thinks his holiday romance will fizzle out. Her advice is to pretend to accept it.

Becky works around Tracy without saying a word. Tracy wonders why she's getting the silent treatment. Becky tells her to keep her cherry gloss off her husband. Tracy says it was only a little peck to say thanks, but if it makes her feel better she won't do it again. She then sidles up to Becky and asks what the row with Sunita was about. "Nothing," snaps Becky. Tracy says it didn't look like nothing, and starts to run Sunita down. Becky stops her and says she can act as matey as she likes, but she's not going to tell her. Tracy says she'll just have to go round there and ask her herself. Becky seems about to lose her temper but then controls herself and goes off to change a barrel. "That's right, run away!" smirks Tracy.

Gail tells David she'll make some salmon sandwiches when Candy arrives, she's had time to think and maybe this girl will be the making of him. David tells his mother that Candy drinks him under the table and they both like having rampant sex! Audrey hushes him - customers! He goes on to tell Gail that he's got his eye on a ring that costs a few grand. Gail is shocked but notices Audrey gesturing at her not to react, so she swallows it and forces a smile. David says he's glad she's come around, as the wedding is in three weeks! Gail can't contain herself any longer and begins a tirade about how stupid he's being and how this girl must have seen him coming. As she stops to draw breath he bursts out laughing. "Got ya!" he says.

Tracy is talking to Becky, saying she sympathises with her, it must be terrible not to be able to have a kid of her own. She says Becky and Steve must have been trying for ages, whereas herself and Steve - bingo - first time! Life can be so unfair. She then talks about Amy, she's stopped asking about Becky altogether, apparently. She walks off with a smug smirk on her face as Becky leans on the bar and puts her hand to her forehead, sighing.

Izzy is in the pub having a meal with her dad. She tells Owen he always rubs people up the wrong way, and then bears a grudge. Owen points out that Eileen did the dirty on him, she needed money and he had some. Izzy says he started it by rubbing Eileen's nose in his relationship with Liz, and anyway, she's paid the money back, so why did he have her arrested? "She needed punishing," says Owen. Izzy doesn't agree. "No, you needed to punish her, there's a difference," she says. Owen says that if it will make Izzy happy he'll go and have a word with Eileen, who's also in the pub. Izzy says it will make her happy, seeing as she has to work with her. So he goes over and tells Eileen there are no hard feelings, as far as he's concerned it's all now done and dusted. He offers his hand, and without a word, Eileen takes it. "Good girl," he says, and goes back to his daughter. "Let's go," says Eileen to Sean, "I want to wash my hands."

David sees Graeme and Tina in the Street and tells them that he and Candy are engaged. Tina bursts out laughing while Graeme congratulates him. David tells them Gail is very wound up about it, and how funny he finds that. Tina wonders if he's just doing it to wind his mum up, but David assures her he's serious about Candy. Graeme thinks they should go for a meal to celebrate.

Maria gets off the bus clutching a bag from a store. Chris comes over and tells her that her hair looks nice, and she says it was done for the business meeting she has to go to. "Pin stripe suit then?" he asks, looking at the bag. Maria says it is. Chris assumes she's going with Carla and wishes the two of them good luck, and Maria doesn't put him straight.

Maria is now dressed up and ready for her meeting. She sees Carla in the street as she walks towards her taxi, and unbuttons her coat to show off the glamorous dress. "You don't think it's a bit too....." she starts to ask. Carla tells her she's clinched many a deal with her cleavage, and goes off back to the office.

Graeme, David and Tina are in the Chinese restaurant. David goes off to the gents and Tina's friend Xin comes over to take their order, glancing nervously over towards the manager. Tina however, is more interested in finding out how her friend is managing to pay the rent, rather than ordering her meal. Xin says she's looking for somewhere cheaper and hasn't had any luck finding a new job. Graeme starts to give her the order as Xin again looks over at the manager, who is watching her. As she takes their menus and goes off, Tina glares at Graeme. "Is that all you can think about? Food?" she snaps. He points out that it's a restaurant. "Men!" sighs Tina.

Maria arrives at Frank's house. He lets her in, saying that he's just dropped the soufflé all over the floor.

Dev finishes a phone call as Sunita walks in. He cheers and tells her they've just had an offer on one of the shops that he thinks they should accept.

Maria helps out in the kitchen while Frank clears up the mess on the floor. Their conversation turns to their mothers. He felt he was never good enough for his, she remarks that her mother would have chained her to the kennels, explaining it was the family business. They chatter on amiably, smiling and joking a little.

In the Chinese restaurant, David is talking endlessly about his new girlfriend, (she's very popular) and Xin brings the bill. Tina remarks that they've hardly seen her all night. (Hardly surprising as the restaurant is busy and the girl is supposed to be working!) Xin looks nervously over towards her boss, explaining that he wasn't pleased when she got upset before, it's not good for business. The boss then disappears so Xin sits down at their table. She tells them she needs to get a psychiatric nursing job soon, her visa extension runs out in two months and she'll be sent back to China where she has no family, or friends. Just then the manager walks back in and she jumps up and goes off to get their change.

Frank and Maria are finishing their dinner, chatting across the table. She tells him she's a single mum, and he tells her she doesn't look old enough to have a kid. She tries to ask him about himself but he takes her hand across the table. "I'd far rather talk about you, Maria," he says. Taking her hand away, she tells him he's a lovely man but she has a boyfriend, and he doesn't mind her being there, he knows it's only business. They then talk shop for a while, he says he wants to expand the lines and needs to know that Underworld could handle it, and he wants a better price. Maria looks flustered and asks for the bathroom, where she phones Carla, who advises her to negotiate but not drop the price too much.

Chris is in the Rovers. Tracy serves him, and tells him if he needs company she's available. He doesn't look impressed. Just then Dev comes in. Becky smiles and asks what she can get him. He ignores her and asks Tracy for his drink. As Becky turns away, Tracy thanks her. "What for?" asks Becky. "The whole street used to hate me, but now they hate you instead," says Tracy, adding that now it looks like Steve is going off her too. Becky snaps and grabs Tracy's throat, saying she's had enough. "Come on then," goads Tracy. Becky looks up and sees Dev staring from the other side of the bar, and backs down and walks off. Tracy remarks loudly that you can tell she used to live on the streets. "Once a lowlife always a lowlife," says Dev.

Frank and Maria are now sitting on the sofa, and she's given him the best price they can do. He tries to refill her wine glass but she refuses. "Do we have a deal?" she asks, smiling. He says he hasn't quite made up his mind, and she says she hopes he's not stringing her along. "And I hope you're not either," he says, and lunges at her. She struggles, reminding him she's got a boyfriend, but he says he's not after a relationship just a bit of fun, and if she's not, why is she there, all glammed up? Then he puts his whole weight on top of her, despite her cries to get off, and starts trying to get his hand up her skirt. Struggling and crying she manages to wriggle out from underneath him and runs for the front door.

Becky is snivelling in the back room of the Rovers when Steve comes in. She turns away from him and he asks how it went with Tracy. "Absolute doddle," she says, wiping her eyes with her sleeve.

Maria runs down the dark street and hails a passing taxi. Sobbing, she climbs in, asking for Coronation Street, Weatherfield. "Are you all right, miss?" asks the driver. "Just take me home," sobs Maria.

Anne Logan

We begin in the factory where Maria is greeting as a heroine by Carla and the machinists. Frank's placed an order for 3000 units. Maria looks stunned.

David's talking to his girlfriend and asking if she's bought him something in duty free. Gail comes down mid-conversation. He tells his girlfriend Gail will get over their engagement. Candy's boarding the plane and he disconnects the call. Gail thinks the luster of the engagement will wear off once Candy sees Weatherfield. David breaks the news that she's lived "round ‘ere" before. Gail wonders whether he's going to tell her anything else about the girl. He says she's White but Gail doesn't care if she's sky-blue-pink. "What do her parents think about this engagement?" David says she'd have to hold a seance to find out.

In the cafe, Gary asks Chesney (again) if he can borrow his van. He's got a house clearance to do. Chesney's adamant - he won't lend Gary the van. Anna apologises to Ches when Gary stomps out in a huff.

At one of the tables, Tina tells Graeme what a hard worker Xin is. Xin even came second in her year at college, even though English is her second language. Tina can't believe there aren't any jobs for psychiatric nurses. (Actually, I think there are plenty of jobs for psychiatric nurses. I wonder how the script writers settled on this occupation? Is there going to be a storyline where she declares one of the street residents to have a psychiatric illness? And how on earth will she choose which one?) Graeme thinks half the problem is that Xin is foreign. He doesn't mention employers' reluctance to hire someone with less than a month left on their visa . . . Graeme is suddenly inspired when he sees Ken at the counter.

In the factory, Julie is still "squeeeeee"ing - apparently Janice has agreed to move in with her. She's beyond thrilled. Sean tells Izzy they'll be scrapping in no time. Julie does lay down a house rule: "When I'm watching Jeremy Paxman, on no account are we to be interrupted." "We?" asks Janice. Julie means herself and Paxo! That's the only house rule, "But break it and I'll break both your legs." Sean goes to talk to Maria about why she looks down. Maria says she doesn't want to talk about it. He says she's saved jobs. Chris comes in and Maria tells him she's got a headache. He wants to take her to lunch but she'd rather not. He looks very grubby, like man who's been labouring all morning, but when he massages Maria's shoulders he leaves no mark at all on her fresh white blouse. Carla comes over and praises Maria. Then she tells her that Frank's coming in at lunchtime and she's going to the bank. She wants Maria to keep him sweet till she gets back.

In the Rovers' back room, Becky's apparently been sleeping on the sofa. She says it felt less lonely than in the marital bed. "I thought you were going to roll right off the edge, you were that far away from me," she tells Steve. She's taken a painkiller and Steve says if she's ill she can skip her shift but Becky says Tracy's dying to know what's going on and she can work. Steve explains that he has to keep Tracy sweet. She's the mother of his child and lives just through the wall. Becky asks for any crumb of comfort and he says he still loves her. He can only deal with a little bit of crazy, he says.

Ken tells Tina and Graeme that from what he's read, a job would be Xin's best chance of staying in the country but Graeme says that's not likely. Tina and Graeme point out that Xin's been here for five years and her life is here now.

Norris is in the pub. He tells Becky he's glad to see she's recovered from "recent altercations." Becky stays very cheerful-sounding when he says he's never known Sunita to be aggressive. She says she thinks it was the time of the month, leans forward and begins to give him a full-on description of just what happens to the lining of the womb! Norris backs away quickly. Hayley tells Becky it's a good sign that she can joke about it, but Becky says it's not. Hayley says she knows that whatever Becky's done, she knows she's got a good heart.

Nearby, Gail and Audrey discuss Candy. Audrey's sure the girl will have been in the salon at some stage. Gail doubts Audrey's is the sort of salon Candy would frequent. She thinks Candy would use the same salon as Becky. Becky sees them looking and is sure they're talking about her. Tracy comes in and greets Becky and Hayley as her two favourite people. She orders a cider and black and Becky asks if she's not worried about getting the blackcurrant colour out of her hair. "Becky! She's not worth it!" orders Hayley.

Maria's in the office when Frank arrives with Carla. He offers his hand but Maria silently refuses to shake it.

Frank and Carla are cheerfully agreeing the contract details and plan lunch to celebrate. Maria doesn't want to go and Carla tries to persuade her. Maria excuses herself and rushes out. Carla answers the phone and Frank steps out of the office. He looks across at Maria, who's over near the kitchen.

Anna tackles Gary about kicking off in the cafe. He says he's on a short fuse and when she keeps on at him, admits he knows he didn't behave well. He says he's trying to forget about the army and get his business off the ground. He agrees to go and apologise to Chesney. Anna tells him Faith's coming to stop for a few days. He advises her to relax and then Faith will relax.

Maria's at the water cooler when Frank comes over to ask if they're OK. She tells him they're just the opposite because last night he tried to rape her. Frank looks genuinely shocked. He admits "maybe I did push things a bit." She insists that she told him to back off and that she had a boyfriend. He says she turned up at his house looking sensational and he thought it was game on. "I'd had a bit to drink." Maria says quietly that she told him straight and he still kept pawing at her. "I was terrified, Frank, and you knew it." He says he thought it was "part of the dance - you know, the chase." The whole conversation is conducted with low voices because the machinists are nearby. Maria says he's lucky she hasn't called the police. He tells her he got the impression she was giving him the come-on. He says he assumes she hasn't called the police because of the contract both she and Carla want him to sign. "I apologise unreservedly for misreading the signals - for what I thought was the green light." "You make my skin crawl," hisses Maria. Carla comes over to fetch Frank for lunch and tells Maria they'll have a catch-up later when she's in a better mood.

Tracy's in a booth with, believe it or not, Norris and Mary. She tells Norris that Blanche used to call him a confirmed bachelor. Norris protests that he's been married twice. "They do say third time lucky," coos Mary, scaring Norris. She tells Tracy she was quite intimidated by Blanche. Tracy says Blanche would have had the information on Becky and Sunita. Norris agrees that Blanche was better than Reuters, which he begins to explain is an industry reference. "When you've worked in news for as long as I have . . ." "You sell knitting magazines," points out Tracy. She asks if they've got any more theories. Becky overhears and wants to rip Tracy's face off. Steve holds her back. Becky shouts that she's losing it. She can't breathe in here. She rushes out the back and Steve stops Hayley going after her. Tracy smirks.

Maria's talking to Kirk, who is babysitting Liam. She tells him she'll be finishing at five on the dot because she worked late last night. Carla's come back and Maria asks how lunch went. Carla says it was weird. And Frank still hasn't signed the contract. He's coming back at five because he had to go into the office. She wonders if he's spinning a yarn and has really gone cold on the idea because of the reception he got from Maria today. "You don't go treating clients like this, blowing hot and cold." The phone goes and Carla suggests Maria answer it. "Stick your tacky little job!" says Maria, storming out.

Becky's weeping and smoking outside the pub. In the distance she sees David greet someone and take her into the house.

Inside, Gail says that if Candy could afford a taxi from the airport then she must be solvent (though this isn't necessarily true once she's paid for the taxi!). He introduces Candy Kyle, but Kylie (for it is she!) says "Kylie" is fine. Candy is her stage name, apparently. "Aren't you Becky McDonald's sister?" asks Gail, perceptive as ever. Kylie says they had the same Mum but her Dad took off when she was eight. They still don't know who Becky's Dad was. "Milkman. Gasman. Loan shark . . ." "Hey, same as you!" David tells his mother, pointing out her father was also a complete mystery until he turned up out of the blue.

Carla's in the toilets with Maria. Maria asks her to lay off. Carla says she was doing brilliantly and she'll get used to the different environment. "I don't want you to leave, all right? I've got high hopes for you, madam." She says she knows she hasn't been the best boss this week, but that will change once Frank signs the contract. She looks at Maria weeping. "Is there anything I should know?" Maria tells her: "He tried to rape me."

The end of episode one.
Margaret Carr

Maria's weeping as she tells Carla more about last night. "I tried to stop him but he wouldn't listen. He started grabbing at me and pulling at my clothes," she says. Carla gives her a hug.

"Right, you've had your fun but enough's enough," Gail tells David. She thinks that David and Kylie's relationship is some kind of sick joke. She refuses to believe they met by chance while David was on holiday. Gail's shocked when Audrey tells her to wind her neck in. When Kylie mentions that Gail can't criticize others after being locked up for murder, Gail almost explodes with indignation. Audrey tries to calm things down and suggests David and Kylie go for a walk while she and Gail have a chat. Once they're alone, Audrey points out that at least Kylie's not pregnant.

Anna and Eddie welcome Faye. Anna seems very anxious to impress but Faye hangs on to her bag for dear life and wants to keep her coat on. Gary comes in just in time and treats Faye like a real person. She happily goes upstairs to see her new room and Anna opens her bag to have a look at what Faye's brought with her - almost nothing. Eddie gives her some cash he says he won on the horses and tells her to take Faye into town tomorrow and treat her to some new things.

In the Rovers, Xin says there's not a single vacancy for a psychiatric nurse. Tina tries to tell her not to give up. Graeme is about to tell her his idea when David and Kylie come in and she's introduced as his fiancee. Kylie turns to the bar and tells a shocked Steve she wants to speak to Becky. Steve says Becky is out and Kylie won't tell him what she wants.

Hayley's been to the dentist for a check-up. She's brought back an Indian takeaway as a treat for tea and Roy asks if there's enough for three. Inside the cafe, Becky sits staring into a cup.

Maria's doing something similar in the factory office, but it's some of Carla's whiskey. Carla wants to call the police but Maria says she isn't ready for this. She thinks she won't be believed without any bruises and because she went over to Frank's in the first place. Carla says she'll have to make up her mind what she wants to do before Frank comes to sign the contract.

At tea at the Windasses' place, Anna reveals the shopping plans and Eddie comments that some new clothes are needed. Faye realises they've gone through her bag. "If you've took anything. . ." She rushes to check. Anna confesses she was the one who looked in her bag. "You thieving cow!" says Faye, and dashes out the door with her bag. Anna rushes to follow, telling her menfolk to help. Gary says he'll go.

Carla's still trying to get Maria to make a decision. Maria won't. She says no-one will believe he attacked her. She thinks she should have just quit and not told Carla anything. There's a knock on the door. Carla goes to let in Frank. She's quite abrupt with him but lets him in.

Frank looks over the contract, which is on a clipboard, for some reason, while Maria pointedly looks the other way. "I think I know what this is about," says Frank. "If I could dig a hole and crawl into it, I would." Carla tells him Maria's upset. He says he'll go but Maria says he doesn't need to. "So, are we in business or what?" he asks Carla. She puts the contract in front of him and he signs without saying anything more.

Faye's sitting outside the medical centre. "They didn't try to rob you," Gary tells her. "How do you know?" she demands. "Because I'm the thief in the family," he says. He tells Faye he knows what it's like not to know who to trust, to be watching your back all the time. "But you've got to trust somebody at some point and I tell you what - I'd trust them with my life."

In the pub, Sean and Steve discuss Kylie and David, who are in a passionate clinch nearby. "Eww! It's like trying to watch a snake swallow its own tail," says Sean. Steve says he's got to nip out and asks Sean if he'll be OK. "If I can hold down my lunch," says Sean, still watching David and Kylie.

Graeme explains to Xin that he's got a mate who can forge anything, including visas. Xin points out that a fake visa is illegal. "Only in the eyes of the law," says Graeme. Xin says she'd be terrified every time there was a knock at the door. She says she has to go home and leaves.

Maria and Carla come in for a drink. Carla praises Maria's bravery.

Hayley's counseling Becky to go back and apologise. Becky says her life is like a record and every time she thinks it's coming right the needle jumps and she's back where she was before. Steve arrives at the door of the closed cafe and Roy and Hayley leave them alone to talk. Becky apologises for letting Tracy get to her yet again but Steve says it's as much his fault as anyone else's for making them work together. Becky's surprised he's being so good and understanding. "Has summat happened?"

Anna's fretting but Gary and Faye come back. Faye says sorry and so does Anna. Faye says she didn't have much to bring and thought she'd just be with them for a night or two. "That's how these things usually work." Anna says they want her to stay if she still wants to. Faye takes her coat off.

David and Kylie sit with Graeme and Tina. Kylie talks about their engagement and says David thought it reminded him of a film. "What was it now?" she asks. "Apocalypse Now," suggests Tina.

Carla and Maria are in a booth. Carla says she's had her fair share of prospective clients who tried to cross the line. Chris comes in and offers to buy a drink to celebrate the contract but Maria wants to go home.

A distraught Becky comes in with Steve close behind. He reminds her she said she'd stay calm. "I lied!" she says, telling Kylie she's got three seconds to get out or she's going through the window. When she tries to drag Kylie out of the pub, Kylie stops her and explains she understands why Becky's not over the moon to see her. "I'm not going to try to take Max away." Steve thinks that means she's after money. Kylie admits she's already spent the five thousand they gave her last time. "I'm not here for your money," she insists. Becky demands to know what else she's there for. "David and I are in love," says Kylie. (Every time she grabs David it's with her arm round his neck. I've often fantasized about getting my hands round his neck. . .) She says she's going to train as a beautician and work in his salon. "Whose salon?" asks a confused Steve. "David's!" says Kylie. She informs them that whether they like it or not, she's sticking round so they'd better get used to it.

In the street, Carla wants another word with Maria. She wants to know if Maria still wants to quit. Carla says she'll deal with Frank and Maria won't have to be in the same room. Maria agrees to stay.

David's talking to Graeme and Tina about Xin. Kylie gets back from getting some more drinks. When she catches up with what they're talking about she points out that all Xin has to do is find someone willing to marry her to enable her to stay in the country. "People do it for money all the time." David refuses. He says he's only marrying for love. This prompts Kylie to grab him and stick her tongue down his throat. Tina's face expresses the thoughts of a nation! Yearghhh!

In the smoking area, Becky tells Steve she's bricking it. "One word from Kylie about that money and everyone in this street's going to know what sort of person I am." Steve says she's a good person. He suggests she take a week off, relax and spend some time with Max. "Stay out of sight, you mean," says Becky. Steve says she should just let all this stuff with Sunita blow over and then start again. Becky can't relax with Kylie in the street. Steve says Kylie might realise what she's got herself into with David and fly out again. Steve hugs her but Becky has a lost look.

Chris and Maria head back to the flat. He thinks she's been avoiding him all day and wants to know what he's done. Maria reassures him with a kiss. "What was that for?" he asks. "I'm just really glad that you're here," Maria says.

The end.
Margaret Carr

Written by Chris Fewtrell Directed by Tony Prescott

Maria has reluctantly arrived at work with Carla who gives her a chance to take some time off if she needs it. Maria says she doesn't need it and says she'll be fine.

It's Norris' birthday and his close friends and Mary are celebrating with a full English in the cafe. Mary has the line of the night "Everyone deserves a banger on their birthday!" Norris is looking forward to the grand re-opening of the shop and Mary has been trying to book celebrities to help cut the ribbon so it sounds like she's got her feet under the shop counter already. Rita is unsure how it's going to feel walking back in the Kabin after all that happened. Even less sure of having to live in the rebuilt flat, what with having to start all over at her age. Mary scolds them all for raining on Norris' special day.

Kylie is bouncing around the kitchen to Lady GaGa on the radio. Poker Face comes downstairs in her dressing gown, complaining because Kylie has nicked her egg custard. They bicker a bit more and David comes down as well. Gail is surprised to hear Kylie is going to start work today at "his" salon. David squirms a bit and Kylie tosses the egg custard in the bin and drags David back up them stairs with a sly giggle, leaving Gail rolling her eyes.

In the Salon, Audrey is doing Rita's hair and sharing the gossip about Kylie being David's new squeeze. Rita is optimistic and Audrey is keeping her distance. Rita wants to hear the gossip about Claudia and Marc but since there isn't any recent news, Rita urges her to get hold of Claudia and get up to date. David arrives, late.

Graeme admires his window cleaning perfection in front of the Cafe. Tina tells him that the shop flat is ready and they have to vacate Victoria Court today. Too bad. They moan but they knew this day was coming. Graeme suggests that Xin should probably get married, maybe they can set her up with Kirk?

David complains that Gail won't even try to get to know Kylie. Audrey does a fine job of staying neutral as David asks if she could work there as a manicurist but Audrey turns him down. Kylie's personality is too big for the salon. And right on time, Kylie comes sashaying in, ready for work. David stammers and Audrey tells her there's no vacancy. Audrey realizes that David lied to Kylie about who owns the shop, earning David a smack on the face from his intended.

Frank arrives to see Carla. Maria turns her back and gives him the cold shoulder and Frank is uncomfortable with the freeze.

Xin finds Kylie eating in the cafe. They chat about Xin's situation. Kylie figures she could get some poor sap to marry her for the right price. And right on time, David comes slinking in. Kylie's eyes light up with pound signs.

After the break, David is apologizing for his deception. Kylie has bigger fish to fry. She proposes that David marry Xin for a price. All Xin has is an antique brooch worth 2 grand. It's not much, Kylie thinks, but it will have to do.

Claudia, Rita and Audrey are having a drink in the Rovers. Claudia is bragging up her business of course and Audrey and she are sharpening their claws on each other as usual. Rita brings up Marc. And right on time, Marc calls Claudia for a date! Claudia asks Audrey to do her hair.

Sophie is busy cleaning and hoovering. Rosie tramps through the clean house with outside shoes on. Sian is coming back and Sophie is excited to see her girlfriend again. Rosie asks after Sally who is apparently out to lunch with Jeff. Sophie seems less bothered about it, mainly because of Sian's impending arrival. Rosie says she'll leave them to it.

Back in the salon, Audrey is adjusting the hair dryer over Emily while David is washing the hair of another senior lady who is in ecstasies over David's fingers! David does not look happy with the old dear flirting with him and looks fairly nauseous when old Mrs. Hargreaves suggests he can have a rummage through her tall boy any time! David drags Audrey in the back and tries to get out of handling that client further. No dice. Audrey asks after Kylie and why on earth David lied about the salon. He just shrugs and says he was trying to impress her but does think the salon would benefit from Kylie's services. Audrey promises to think about it. David decides as it's his afternoon off, he will indeed abandon Mrs. Hargreaves and leaves them all to it.

In the pub, Sean, Izzy and Janice moan about having clients looking over their shoulders. Sean recognizes that it's Maria that Frank is interested in. Maria is there and brushes off their teasing about him. Chris comes over too, surprised to see her there. He teases her about her business acumen and she just looks uncomfortable. Xin has told Tina about David and Kylie's offer and thinks it's a lifeline, if nothing else. She seems to be considering the sham marriage. Tina's sympathetic but David is no lifeline.

The Kabin is about to open. The sign is covered in red sheets. The crowd gathers, and Norris starts a speech but Rita is having none of it when he mentions Shakespeare. She leaps forward and pulls the sheet from the sign to reveal.... "Norris's News" not the Kabin!!!! Oh dear! Norris is thrilled but Rita's face falls to the cobbles.

Back in the salon, Claudia has rollers in her hair and Emily asks Mrs. Hargreaves, now under the dryer herself, for the biscuits. Mrs. Hargreaves appears to have fallen asleep so Claudia reaches over and hands the biscuits to Emily, whose hair is still in rollers (but it must be dry by now? Shouldn't Audrey have seen to her before she started Claudia's do?) Marc arrives just then, having figured out where Claudia would be. They exchange small talk while Emily investigates and shrieks! It seems Mrs. Hargreaves has actually gone to meet her Maker!

In the pub, Graeme arrives to tell Tina he's got their gear moved back into the shop flat. Tina, Xin and Graeme discuss Xin's situation and Graeme realizes that, instead of David marrying Xin, Tina has decided that he should do it! Eep! He tries to point out that he's not single! (Neither is David!) Tina and Xin try to persuade Graeme who objects strenuously....

Will he be persuaded? Check back and see!

Tvor

Yes Mrs Hargreaves is definitely dead. Poor actress. She must have thought a Corrie contract was worth millions and instead just a few words and she pops her northern clogs.

Sophie was excited about Sian's return from holiday. As the girls ate their dinner together, Sian announced she was staying with her mum. Sophie cannot believe her ears that Sian prefers the mother who could not stand her and who wanted her out of the way whilst she got the new boyfriend settled only a few weeks ago! Sophie has missed her girlfriend while she'd been away, Sophie couldn't hide her disappointment - and the girls rowed. Sophie thought Sian's home was with her and Sian says it is only tonight. But the argument rages.

Elsewhere at the factory, Frank asked Carla to have a word with Maria to try to ease the tension in the office when he was around. He feels that is damaging the buyer seller relationship (can someone even explain why he keeps hanging around the factory - surely he has placed the order and unless there is a quality or timing failure he would go nowhere the factory as he must need to concentrate on selling the goods. When Carla asked her assistant to take some time off for a while, Maria couldn't believe what she was hearing.

Kylie and David argue briefly and then make up by rushing to bed! Later in the Rovers Audrey makes it clear that leaving the salon to David is not a great idea - after all there would be death duties to pay (really - is Audrey worth more than £600k, houses must be really valuable up north?). Audrey concedes she might sign the salon over now and that would prevent problems in the future.

Meanwhile, Graeme agreed to marry Xin until Xin mentioned he could go to prison. Even Tina seems to be pleased initially that Xin would be staying around. Would he back out? Xin makes it clear that they have to get it right or it will go seriously wrong.

And we close with Kylie thinking she and David have got their hands on the salon and she makes it worth his while with a huge snog in the side alley. She is so pleased her little plan is coming together. Has David actually found someone who is sharper at game playing than he is?

I thought I would keep it short tonight. See you next week.

K Richard W

Graeme and Tina are discussing the implications of him marrying Xin so she can stay in the country. Understandably, Graeme is worried about the prospect of a prison sentence, and tells Tina, and himself, that he's not doing it for profit, he's doing it out of pity. The doorbell rings, it's Xin, all smiles now. "So," she asks them, "what have the neighbours said about you splitting up?" They look at each other, and Xin points out that no one will believe Graeme is going to marry her if he's still with Tina.

Gail walks into the salon and finds it empty of customers. Audrey reckons Claudia has spread the word about someone dying under the dryer there. Kylie is looking through a magazine and loudly voices her opinion that they could get rid of everything in the salon and refit with the ultra modern equipment she's looking at. David hustles her out of the door before his gran changes her mind about signing the salon over.

Sally passes the garage and Kevin comments on her new, very short, hair style. "Audrey's done a good job," he says. She tells him she didn't get it done at Audrey's, Jeff treated her. "He loves running his fingers through it," she says. Tit for tat, Kevin tells her that he's accepted Lloyd and Cheryl's offer on the house. "Oh," says Sally, looking stunned. Kevin tells her she can't be surprised, and at least it's going to someone decent. Sally walks off.

Rita approaches The Kabin and finds a workman putting up a new sign that says The Kabin. She goes inside. Norris waves a white hanky at her, he thinks everything will be all right now that the old sign has gone. Before Rita can speak, the door bursts open and Mary storms in. She's furious that Norris has thrown her gift back in her face. Norris ignores her and tries to talk to Rita. Rita turns to Mary and tells her that Norris changed the sign for her, and if she's worried about the money she spent, Norris will reimburse her. "Will I?" asks Norris, and suggests that perhaps Mary now has other projects. Mary however, says that she's been the 'keeper of the flame' with the mobile Kabin, and with a combined age of 150 the two of them are going to need some help. Rita, furious, tells her she'll drag her crumbling carcass up the road then, and leaves.

Fiz and Chesney are at the hospital with Hope. The doctor is pleased with Hope's progress and say she may well be able to go home tomorrow. Fiz is delighted but anxious. "I can't believe it," she says, "home before your daddy!"

Sally's going through the local paper looking for an affordable two-bedroomed property for her and Sophie to feel safe in. This seems to be an impossible task in the Weatherfield area.

Tina comes into the cafe and speaks to Rita. She asks how her flat is now that she's back in it. Rita sighs that it's just an empty box, devoid of memories, an empty box where she'll end her days. Tina hands over a small chest, and Rita is delighted to find some of her precious knick knacks and photographs. Tina explains that they picked up as much as they could from the rubble and with the aid of a computer, got the blackened photographs touched up and reprinted. Rita is touched. "However can I thank you, you've made the thought of going back in that flat almost bearable."

Anna goes into the shop and without thinking tells Sophie that her mum was looking for a property. Sophie is shattered when she realises that her dad has sold the house out from underneath them.

Kylie is moaning to David that his family won't speak to her. He tells her to ignore them, and tells her that his gran was once a slapper from the wrong side of the tracks till she married a shopkeeper and became Lady Mayoress.

Norris and Rita come into the pub, deep in conversation about Mary. Rita wants to know how she came to be masterminding their business. "MY business," mutters Norris. "I don't remember you ever giving her an interview," snorts Rita. Norris is sure Rita will feel the benefit of having Mary around, so she can take time off now and then.

Just then Tina comes storming into the pub and finds Graeme with Xin, and starts a loud, full scale row, shouting that he's a two-timing scumbag, she's seen the texts on his phone! She tells him he's got to choose. "Is it her you want or me?"

After the break, Tina and Graeme are still in the Rovers, shouting at each other, watched by horrified and interested locals, plus Xin who's grinning and looking like she's enjoying the show (which she is!). The slanging match ends suddenly when Graeme shouts that at least Xin doesn't go on about her dead dad! There's a sudden hush and a sharp intake of breath from all around. Tina is stares at him open mouthed, Graeme's hand flies to his mouth, and Steve and Sean try to calm things down and hustle them out. Graeme apologises but Tina just shouts at him to get lost, so he and Xin leave quickly. Rita goes over and hugs and comforts Tina. "How could he say that, Rita, after all we've been through?" mutters Tina.

Sophie's working in the shop when Sian comes in. Sophie tells her that she's been kicked out of college, but it doesn't matter because she's got other, better things in her life. Sian looks around her. "What? Like working in a corner shop?"

Back in the pub, Rita tells Tina she can't go back to the flat and says she can stay with her. David comes over and sympathises with Tina, saying Graeme was out of order. At the bar, Kylie says she can't understand David, Graeme is his mate. Sean explains that Tina was the love of David's life once, which is obviously news to Kylie. Sean goes on to say how cut up David was when he and Tina parted, and Norris agrees. Kylie is worried - Tina is now a free agent.

Sally comes into the shop to break the news about the house, but Sophie tells her she already knows, Anna spilt the beans. Sally says it's not the end of the world, she's started looking for a new place, and they'll talk later. She leaves a dejected Sophie with Sian and goes off to work. As they talk about it, Sophie suddenly has an idea - she and Sian could get their own place. She could work more shifts and Sian could carry on at college. Sian doesn't seem to share her enthusiasm and says she's off to college.

Fiz is frantically cleaning the house. She tells Chesney that baby Hope will be susceptible to infections, she can't come home to a dirty house. She then sits down and puts her head in her hands, she wants to bring Hope home but has no equipment, no cot, no pram, not even a car seat to bring her back from hospital in. Chesney points out she hasn't got a car. "No, and no money to buy one," says Fiz. Chesney says he knows she's thinking of dipping into Joy Fishwick's money, but he wants her to promise that she won't. "I wasn't!" says Fiz, but her face says otherwise. She's worried that Hope is going from having round the clock care from a team of dedicated professionals, to her. "And me," says Chesney. "Yes," says Fiz, "Mr and Mrs Clueless!"

Sophie is at the computer. She's found photographs that Sian has posted on a social networking site, of her holiday. There's another girl in the photos with Sian, and they look like they're having a wonderful time.

Xin and Graeme are up in the flat. He now thinks he's going to be public enemy No. 1. Tina comes in, still upset at what Graeme said, although he repeats again and again that he's sorry. She starts packing up her things and tells him she's going to stay at Rita's. If they want Operation Visa to succeed they are all going to have to make sacrifices.

Sian comes home and finds Sophie in the conservatory. Sophie tells her she's seen the photos of Sian and Chloe, her friend from holiday. She wants to know if Sian wasn't keen on the idea of them getting a flat together because she's seeing another girl. Sian tells her that they could never afford it, she's not seeing anybody else, she's with Sophie and she loves her. Sophie tells her she's got a funny way of showing it, and won't be pacified. They argue and she tells Sian to go.

Outside, Norris and Rita help Tina with her things. "Well, aren't we the odd couple," says Rita as she opens the door.

In the salon, Gail is chatting to Audrey. She's worried that David and Kylie together will alienate most of the clients. Audrey reckons David just likes to shock, so they should just welcome Kylie into the family, accept all the suggestions for the salon and the novelty will soon wear off, she's just a phase David's going through. Just then Kylie comes in, beaming. She's been down to the register office and got a cancellation. On Friday, 8th April she becomes Mrs Kylie Platt. "Ladies, buy yourselves a hat!" she smiles, kissing David. "Welcome her into the bosom of the family?" mutters Gail. "Buy a hat? I'll eat it first!"

Anne Logan

Sophie's trying to call Sian but all she gets is the voicemail. Sally's left a note that she's gone to look at a flat.

Gail and David are in the kitchen and David's looking at an optimistic horoscope. Gail's very cynical. She tells him he just thinks he loves Kylie. He tells her he's going to be running a business and he's growing up. "I just think Kylie's . . ." she pauses as Kylie comes downstairs but Kylie tells her to keep going. "I don't think Kylie's worthy of you. I think she's a nasty little gold-digger," Gail finishes. Kylie sits on David's knee and drinks the milk straight from the bottle - always a sign of a bad egg in this street.

Graeme's embarrassed to be woken on the sofa by Xin. She's ironed his jeans, she says. And his shirt's drying on the radiator. She wants to be useful. Graeme tells her she can help by going to the pound shop and getting some cocktail glasses and plastic pineapples so they can take some pictures of their wonderful holiday in Trinidad. Tina's going to take the pictures and lend Xin some of her summer clothes.

In the street, Rosie's thrilled that she's going to be sharing a flat with Jason. Sophie's very glum. She tells her Dad that Sally's said they can barely afford a one-bedroomed flat. He tells Sophie not to try to make him feel guilty. He points out that it was Sally who kicked him out. Sophie says she's not trying to make him feel guilty. She just wants to talk. Kevin says he doesn't have time to talk and he wheels baby Jack away.

As Sophie crosses the road she passes Chesney and Fiz. Ches asks Fiz where she got the brand new stroller/pram for Hope. Fiz tries to say someone lent it to her but confesses she's taken a "loan" from Joyce Fishwick's money. She says it's because Hope is vulnerable and the money's just sitting there doing nowt. "It's not your money, though, is it?" he tells her. A taxi arrives for them to take them to the hospital to fetch the baby home.

At breakfast in the Windass household Faye seems to have enjoyed her stay, though she won't admit it outright. When she goes to fetch her schoolbag, Anna tells Gary that Faye left her comfort blanket on the couch last night. Eddie says that shows she feels more secure.

Graeme meets Tina and offers her flowers by way of an apology for yesterday. He tries to kiss her but they spot Mary coming out of the corner shop and Tina hits Graeme, shouting, "Don't you come begging me for forgiveness!" Mary rushes over to support Tina in seeing Graeme off. Tina chucks a bin bag at him, shouting that it's the rest of his clothes - she's already told him it contains the summer clothes for Xin. Graeme is seen off and Mary offers Tina a biscuit to calm her down.

Sophie's in the shop and Sunita's about to find out why she's so down when Sian walks in. Sophie is very short with her and Sian can't work out why Sophie's so paranoid. Sophie claims Sian's pushed her away. "Can you blame me?" shouts Sian. She says Sophie used to be fun but now she's a mess and Sian has to spend half her time trying to drag Sophie out of bed and make her do college work. "I'm sick of feeling more like your Mum than your girlfriend!" She shouts that she's had enough and leaves the shop, followed by Sophie who demands to know whether Sian is dumping her. "I can't take it any more," Sian tells her. "So you're dumping me? I knew you was cheating!" shouts Sophie, stomping back towards the shop. As she passes Sunita, who's come outside too, she shouts, "And you can stick your poxy job and all!"

The taxi is back with Fiz and tiny, tiny Hope. There's a lot of interest with people wanting a look at the baby. Maria's there and Sean sees Maria and says something sarcastic about her being off work.

Sunita finds Sophie slumped against the salon wall. She's drinking cider. Sunita wants to talk because she's worried but Sophie says nobody cares about her any more. "Not even God cares about me any more." Sunita says she cares but Sophie refuses to go with her. "I'm not leaving you like this," says Sunita. "I'll leave you, then," says Sophie, walking away.

Julie's presented Hope with a quilt sewn together by all the machinists, most of whom are crammed into the living room. Fiz is tearful, wishing John could be there. When it's time for Hope's feed, the visitors all leave at once. Maria admires the pram and Chesney quickly says it was lent by a friend. Once they're gone, leaving Katy, Chesney, Fiz, Hope and Schmeichel, Fiz decides the place isn't big enough for all of them, especially when one of them tries to slobber over the baby. She wants Schmeichel gone. "I don't want him anywhere near her or any of her things."

In the Rovers, Xin wants to see Tina but Sean tries to eject her. She's brought some post for Tina and Tina snaps her thanks before Xin goes. In the back, Tina opens one envelope which is a note from Graeme asking her to meet him later.

Sunita's at the garage to tell Kevin about Sophie. He tells her not to worry about it but Sunita says after the argument with Sian she found Sophie drinking. Kevin's surprised by that and says he has to go and pick up Jack but he'll talk to Sophie later. Sunita protests that she's really worried and Kevin says, "So? Tell Sally."

In the salon, David puts his client under the drier and tells her to keep turning the magazine pages regularly! David's in the other chair and he refuses to get her a cuppa. They start snapping at each other and then panic for a moment when Mrs Teed doesn't seem to move despite all the noise. She turns a page and they all breathe a sigh of relief.

As Sophie and her bottle of cider arrive at the church, the choir's belting out O Happy Days. Sophie stares in through the window at them. She takes another drink, crying as she does so.

Faye's done a picture of Gary wearing a medal. But the happy family turns to custard as Faye discovers Eddie's washed her cuddly rug. He says it reeked but Faye says it smelt like her mum. "It smells different," she screams. "I hate you! And I never want to come here again." She says she's going to get her stuff and wants them to take her home.

Sophie goes into the choir room. The choir members see her and stop singing. "That's right. Take a look at the lesbian!" she shouts at them. The pastor sends the choir home and goes to find out what's wrong. Sophie sobs that God hates her, just as the pastor said. The pastor protests he never said that. "Then why is he punishing me? Why is my life falling to pieces?" The pastor tells her that God can see her suffering. He says God loves and forgives everyone. Sophie says he doesn't care about her or he wouldn't have taken away everything she loved. She says she doesn't want to talk to the pastor but wants to hear it from the man upstairs. The pastor chases after her.

Chesney and Katy talk about parenting and kiss.

Nearby, Graeme meets Tina and sweeps her up in his arms. Too late they realise they've been seen by Kylie and David.

Sophie's standing on the parapet of the church roof, refusing to come down and screaming at God. She weeps that she's a lost sheep and not part of God's flock any more.

Audrey finds Claudia sitting mournfully in the Rovers. She's been stood up by Marc - again. "My gut tells me he's lying about something." Audrey agrees and suggests Claudia go round, confront him and demand the truth. She offers to drive Claudia to Marc's immediately.

Chris and Maria arrive in the pub. Maria tells Chris maybe she should just go back to the salon. Chris wants to know what's happened to put her off the factory job but Maria says she just doesn't know if she's got what it takes. Chris assures her she could be the next Alan Sugar if she wants.

Sophie's weeping but at least she's sat down. The pastor tries to convince her that God does care. "Come on. Give me your hand. Come back to us - we'll welcome you. He says she won't have to change who she is. His argument works and Sophie stand up and steps back towards him. But she catches her foot on something. "Aaaaarrggghhhh!" - and she tumbles off the roof, landing on a parked car and lying very very still.

More in the second episode.
Margaret Carr

Back again and the pastor's down beside the car calling an ambulance. He calls Sophie's name but there's no response.

Tina goes into the flat she supposedly shares with Graeme but there's something different. "Where's all my stuff?" Xin says they thought the flat should have more of her influence and less of Tina's. Xin's clearly a cat lover as there are now cats everywhere - on posters, as knitted toys, on cushions, on mugs. Graeme points out that visitors shouldn't see it looking just the same as when Tina lived there or their cover would be blown. When Xin goes to get another cushion cover, Graeme tries to reassure Tina that David won't say anything.

Sally and Kevin have clearly been told about Sophie. Kevin's trying to defend himself from accusations that he was in the pub. Sally grabs the keys and wants to drive.

Also driving is Audrey, with Claudia as passenger. Audrey likens them to Cagney and Lacey.

Julie comes into Fiz's with Schmeichel. She's got Chinese food and Schmeichel - Chesney's asked her to feed the dog. Fiz is appalled that the dog's back in the house and even more appalled when Schmeichel steps on to the quilt, which is on the floor. Julie feels sorry for the dog but Fiz can't stand the sight of him in the house.

Kylie's lying on the sofa doing leg lifts when David lets Tina and Graeme into the house. David's quite happy not to say anything but, without breaking leg-lift stride, Kylie demands 15 per cent of whatever Xin's paying Graeme to marry her. "Come on, shake on it," she demands. Tina shakes then breaks the news that Xin isn't paying them a penny.

In the hospital, Kevin arrives and the pastor introduces himself and explains what happened. Sally has finished parking and comes in with Rosie. The pastor delicately explains that Sophie got a bit emotional and hands over her bag. Rosie's horrified that it has blood on it. Kevin protests that he would have come looking for her but thought she'd gone home. A nurse comes to tell them that Sophie's got for a CT scan and they're checking for spinal damage.

Craggy and Racey arrive outside Marc's house. They're discussing whether or not they've tried something. Audrey never has. If she's asked she always refuses. Claudia confesses she tried it once just to see if she could make it work. Audrey's horrified. "Claudia! A comb-over has no place in a hairdressing salon." There's a light on at Marc's and they see him bring out the rubbish. "What man says that he's out when he's tidying the house?" Audrey wants to know. They realise he must be expecting company.

Norris is annoyed. Very annoyed. The barking coming from the yard next door is spoiling the start of Midsummer Murders. Grumbling and moaning at the source of the noise, he fetches a set of steps and climbs up so he can look over into the yard. Boo! As he puts his head over the top he comes face to face with Schmeichel, who's up on his hind legs to see who's talking! "Oooh hoooh... you monster!" squeaks Norris, quickly climbing down again.

Faye's locked in her room and won't come out. Anna thinks Eddie's ruined the trust they've built up with her. Hillary will be here for her soon. There's a knock at the door and before they can get to it, Faye comes down the stairs with her luggage and barrels past them. She's at the car before Hillary can find out what's happening. "That's it. That's just it," Anna says quietly, slumping down at the table.

At the hospital, Sian's arrived after Rosie rang her and Kevin blames her. He tells Sally they were rowing and that's why Sophie got into a state. Sally shouts at Kevin, accusing him of keeping information from her. Sian's horrified to hear that Sophie was on the church roof. Kevin and Sally screech at each other, making contrary accusations, until Rosie shouts for them to stop. Sally thinks for a moment before pointing out that this is what they've come to - Sophie could be dying and all they can do is argue.

Faye keeps locking the car doors so nobody can open the door to talk to her. "I'm not discussing this through a closed window," Hillary tells her. She tells Anna and Eddie that Faye's very protective of her things. She doesn't have much. She sends them inside and says the bigger deal they make of this, the less likely it is that Faye will back down. Hillary gets into the car and drives off with Faye.

Very very strangely, Kevin is on the phone to whoever's got baby Jack, making sure she's OK to keep him for a while yet. I say strangely because I'm absolutely sure he says "Tracy." Why would anyone leave a child with her? Maybe that just shows he wasn't thinking straight. A very tearful Sian tells Kevin they had a row but she didn't dump Sophie. She tells him about the plan to move into a flat and says they'd end up in some run-down dump, but that's where Sophie thought she and Sally would end up anyway. Sian tells Kevin that all the rows and uncertainty were doing Sophie's head in. He assures her that Sophie and Sally won't end up in some dive, but Sian says he can't know that. Kevin says all he cares about is whether Sophie will be all right. A doctor comes out and calls his name. "The CT scan shows no bleeding in the brain and Sophie's neck and back are OK. She's very lucky," she says. Yes, about as lucky as you can be with a broken rib, fractured wrist and concussion. Kevin goes off to find Sally without a backward glance at poor, distraught Sian.

Fiz is on the phone to John, being recorded by Julie, who says she'll put the movie on a memory stick so John can see Hope. Chesney comes in, slamming the door. Katy's with him. They plead to be allowed to hold Hope and Fiz demands to see whether her hands are clean first. "Is Schmeichel outside?" asks Chesney, just as there's a knock on the door. It's Norris, RSPCA phone number at the ready. "That dog is being mistreated!" Julie denies it. Chesney asks how long the dog's been barking and Norris says all the way through Midsummer Murders and a documentary and poor Emily wasn't able to concentrate on her Sudoku, which has turned out all sevens and is in the recycling! Fiz says Chesney can't bring the dog in but Norris suggests he does because he's going to be recording the noise for the authorities. And he slams the door on the way out, waking Hope.

"Oh, sweetheart! What were you thinking of?" Sally asks Sophie, who seems very groggy.

Craggy and Racey are still in the car, with Claudia swigging from a hip flask. Audrey thinks there's no point in staying longer. Just as she says it, a woman comes out of Marc's house. "I knew it," says Claudia, mournful again.

The pastor finds Sian and asks if there's any news. Sian won't speak to him. "Are you going to blame me and all?" She wants to know what the pastor said to Sophie. She tells Rosie he's the one who said they were sinners. "He thinks we're scum." The pastor denies it. He wants them both to be happy. He tries to say he's on their side but Sian won't believe him and shouts at him. Kevin comes and tells Sian that Sophie wants to see her. He apologises for what he said earlier. Sian goes off and the pastor says he'd better leave. He insists he just wants the girls to be happy and to find peace with themselves and with God. When he's gone, Kevin sits down beside Rosie and apologises and says he'll never let it kick off like this again. He hugs her.

Sian asks Sophie if this was on purpose. Sophie denies it. "It's not my life to take." Sian wants to know what she was doing. "I don't know. I just wanted . . . I just needed things to change." Sian says she could have died and Sophie should know that she loves her and would never go off with anyone else. Sian pleads with her not to break up and asks if she can come back tomorrow. She kisses Sophie goodbye, leaving her with Kevin. Kevin says she should sleep. "You're still my baby girl."

Schmeichel's stolen the left-over pork balls. Chesney wonders whether he's got worms. That's the last straw for Fiz, who announces they can't keep the dog. "Hope is too vulnerable. We need to protect her." "He was here first," says Chesney, but Fiz is adamant.

Kevin and Sally reminisce about Sophie's babyhood. "It's now that's the worry, teenage," says Sally. She wouldn't want to go through that again. Kevin tells Sally about Sophie's plan to get a flat to get away from the rows. He says it's all his fault. "I'm so sorry, Sal. I'm so sorry." He puts down his head and weeps in Sally's arms.

The end.
Margaret Carr

There was wonderful contrast between almost-tragedy and humour in this episode. If you'll see it eventually, watch out for the wonderful writing of Audrey and Claudia in the car, and the scene where Norris climbs up to the top of the wall is priceless.

Written by Simon Crowther Directed by Graeme Harper

Sally has spent the night watching over Sophie. Kevin arrives and is told that the doctors have said Sophie can come home in a few days. Kevin has brought some things for Sophie from the house and Sophie wakes up.

Xin and Graeme are rehearsing their "history", when they met, how, etc. trying to get it straight. Xin is anxious that they find out all their details like birthdays and they need photographic evidence too, to prove that they are known as a couple.

While Becky and Steve are prepping the pub for opening, Becky mentions that one of Max's friends is taking karate and wants Max to do it too. Steve points out, again, that they can't afford it. Becky uses the argument that Amy is taking swimming lessons at his expense. Survival, Steve declares. Bullies, is Becky's counter-argument. Steve complains about Amy not living there anymore, which Becky takes as a low blow.

Over in the corner shop, Dev is talking to Eileen about Sophie's fall. Sunita is sympathetic, looking like she's feeling a bit guilty, too.

David and Kylie discuss their wedding bands outside the Salon while Kylie has a smoke. Audrey comes out hollers at David to get back inside. Just then, Becky comes outside with Max who spies Kylie. So much for trying to get him to look both ways, he speeds across the street to Kylie without looking. Luckily, there are no cars at that moment! Kylie doesn't look overly comfortable, mainly for facing Becky but she tells Becky about the wedding while David distracts Max. Becky is afraid the wedding is her plan to get Max back and she warns Kylie to keep away from Max, she's his mother now. Kylie tells Becky she agreed and she'll stick with it. Becky takes Max away and David asks her if she wants Max back. Kylie reckons she's got the perfect set up. Becky and Steve have all the responsibility, financial and otherwise, and she can just see Max when she wants without any strings.

In the hospital, out in the hallway while the nurse is checking Sophie over, Kevin and Sally wonder how the fall could have happened with the Pastor right there. Sally also wonders why Sophie was drunk. Kevin decides they need to talk to Sian too. Sally lightly but sarcastically suggests that his interest as a parent is a bit too late.

Sunita is going to bring flowers to Sophie. Dev picks out a small cheap bouquet of carnations and tells his wife that the sale of one of the shops has fallen through. Oh dear. Anyway. Better flowers that than are required so Dev picks up a larger bouquet and Sunita gives him a kiss for it.

Emily brings out a cup of tea for Graeme who's doing the windows. Norris minces no words about paying Graeme their hard earned money. Seems that Norris has taken a further dislike to Graeme because of the perceived love rat title he's now taken, a title that Becky has heard too. She comes along and casts aspersions on Graeme's character as well for breaking Tina's heart! Graeme defends himself as just someone that fell out of love and in love with someone else. When she leaves, Graeme invites Norris and Emily round for their tea tonight to get to know Xin better so they can see how lovely she is really. She's the yin to his yang, the stud to his muffin! Norris is appalled at the idea but they have accepted anyway.

In the Salon, Audrey has the Renshaw Twins in the chairs and Claudia is moaning about the downturn in her love life to the tune of "There Goes My Everything" on the radio. (Perfect!) Claudia is swearing off men until the summer but Audrey rightly points out that while they all get hangovers, they don't stop drinking. Audrey thinks Claudia should phone up and find out the truth straight from the horse's mouth. David looks faintly turned off by the idea of these two older women and their love lives and the Renshaw Twins can hardly believe how good their luck is today, to be able to eavesdrop in on such juicy goss! Claudia refuses to make the first move and the twins agree that they're gripped with the drama! She thanks Audrey for not rubbing her nose in it.

Fiz is griping at Chesney for leaving open tins of dog food around the baby's things. She is adamant and is sorry, but the dog has to go. Chesney is devastated, the dog is the one steady thing in his life but even Kirk understands Fiz's point of view. He offers to take Schmeichel but can you imagine that great beast in that tiny flat over the Salon with Maria and little Liam too!

Becky has told Steve about Kylie marrying David. His reply "Do you take this lunatic to be your lawfully wedded wife?" and wonders if they will exchange rings or ringtones! Ha! Becky is worried that Kylie will be living across from them for the rest of their lives and what the effect on Max will be. Steve rants about all the things that have gone wrong including his mother's disappearance and to top it all off, his cartoony socks have shrunk to Max's size in the wash! Poor baby! Kylie and David come in for a drink, much to Becky's chagrin and Dev, too, arrives for one which surprises me given the acrimony between him and the Alahans. You'd think he wouldn't want to contribute any money into Steve's pocket? (And who's minding the shop? Sunita is taking flowers to Sophie, isn't she?)

Sian is sitting on the side of Sophie's bed and they're giggling over a magazine but Sophie is also thoughtful. She asks if Sian still loves her. Of course she does! Sophie apologizes and Sian asks if she can move back in which makes Sophie's day.

Katy and Chesney discuss the problem with the dog. Chesney reckons he has to get his own place.

Back at the hospital, Sian has told Sally that Sophie got jealous over this new friend Sian had met on holiday and over-reacted. Sian feels really bad but Sophie's melt down wasn't really her fault. Sunita finally arrives with the flowers. She admits she tried to get Sophie to go home and then spills the beans that she did tell Kevin but he said he was busy with Jack and that Sally could sort out Sophie. That lights a spark under the gunpowder keg as you'd expect and Sally goes off on one. She whips around and glares through the window into Sophie's room where Kevin is.

Tina approaches Graeme and asks her to take her out to town tonight but he admits he's got that dinner party with Emily and Norris as part of the plan. Tina isn't too happy about it and Graeme reminds her it was all her idea in the first place. Eileen comes out of the factory so Tina starts screaming at Graeme and slaps him, stropping off.

Steve attempts to make conversation with Dev who isn't having it. Dev says he can't forgive Becky or him and walks out.

Claudia and Audrey are still in the salon. David drops in to see if Audrey has any hoover bags and Audrey reminds him he's got an appointment to do someone's roots. Marc arrives and Claudia launches straight into it, saying they were spying on him and saw his wife or girlfriend or someone! He's ready to explain and asks her over to the pub.

In Sophie's room, with Sian and Sunita watching, Sally and Kevin are showing that although they might have been oh so contrite and regretful that their wars have taken a toll on Sophie, they still continue to disregard their daughter. They're screaming at each other hammer and tongs, each blaming the other. She tosses Jack and Molly in his face and he chucks Jeff back in hers. Sian finally leaps up and tells the pair of them off. Sally takes exception and Sophie, with tears in her eyes, defends Sian who can do a good defense on her own. She tells them that Sophie has been through the wars and none of them have been there for her or told her things will be ok. Nobody's listened to Sophie or talked to her and this is the result. Sally and Kevin look shamefaced.

Katy is leading Chesney down Victoria Street, saying she's got an idea and it's not that expensive. She takes him to where Janice's old flat is. (if it's cheap enough that two kids can afford it, why couldn't Janice?) Katy wants to live there with him and guess what? She wants a baby!!

Becky finds Steve out front smoking and joins him. She says Max was disappointed that he couldn't join karate. Steve reckons disappointment is good for a kid. You can hear the diesel rattle of what is probably a taxi behind them as Becky reminds Steve that Max has been through a lot. Steve isn't giving in about the lessons. She makes him promise he's not resenting Max. He says he's not the resenting type. A voice from behind them speaks up "You? Not the resenting type??" They turn around and clap eyes on the vision they see before them, a vision in a red and black Spanish Bolero outfit with a hat that has Amy's name on it. It's Liz in all her glory back from the Costa del Andy and she's asking after her favourite grandchild!

Tvor

Well the Websters are in hospital - Kev promising things are going to be different (I think we have heard that line before). Sal wishing that Sophie had talked to her (now pardon me but how many times in recent weeks has Sophie tried to talk to her mother and been interrupted by a combination of Kev, Rosie or Jeff or indeed almost anyone else who seems more interesting?). Sal is we should note wearing her new gamine haircut - but at least it is her own hair. Sophie says she did try - but everyone was too busy. Kev says never again - well until the next time baby Jack is more important or a car needs repairing or well almost anything other than Sophie.

Elsewhere, Katy and Chesney are discussing becoming parents. Now pardon me for breathing but neither of them are out of short trousers yet - just why is becoming a parent so important to either of them. Come on Chesney sow some wild oats. Katy has clearly given the matter a lot of consideration and Chesney agrees to consider the matter.

Liz McDonald has returned from sunny Spain, few signs of the short skirts and even less of the cleavage which always used to be on view - I wonder if she has suddenly realised her age? Anyway what she has missed is her grand-daughter - little Amy. Anyway Steve and Becky lie initially saying she is out, not giving away her move next door.

In the Rovers Marc is clearly on the point of telling Audrey and Claudia about the mystery woman they had seen the previous night leaving his house, but then thinks better of it. He says she was not a woman at all - at least not in the sense they think! He thinks quickly and explains to the doubting ladies that the woman they had spied on was really his sister. Well you might think that but I guessed that in fact it was not a sister but it was someone with whom Marc shares a lot of genetic material. No doubt it will all be revealed (well on second thoughts I hope not).

Along at the Kabin Liz finds Amy being looked after Emily and takes her "home", without having a chance to hear that Amy lives at Number One. Rita is looking after baby Jack. Emily has to tell Tracy what has happened and the latter enjoys storming the Rovers and tearing Amy away from her loving grandmother. Liz wants to know what is going on - but Steve and Becky are giving nothing away. They say it is unusual but it is working as Tracy wanted to catch up on time with her daughter having got out of jail. Liz is not convinced - she thinks she is in a different dimension.

Back at home Sal and Kev seem to agree a fresh start is in order and Kev even offers to get the tea whilst Sal has a break and it would appear that everyone is being more friendly.

Norris and Emily enjoyed a meal with Graeme and Xin who have decorated the flat to look like Christmas and take pictures to prove a Xmas party. Norris asks some fairly straightforward but for the unlikely couple difficult to answer questions about their relationship, the pair can hardly remember where and how they me and how they have managed without alerting Tina to events.

Back home, after Jason and Rosie leave Sally invites Kevin for a nightcap, which he accepts. She starts crying and rests in his arms. He holds her and then tries to comfort and kisses her properly but Sal turns on him for trying to worm his way back into the house, starts shouting and tells him to leave.

And that is your lot for tonight. See you again soon.
K Richard W

A furious Liz wants to know why Steve should think it's all right for his daughter to be brought up by a cold, calculating killer. Steve points out that Tracy is Amy's mother. "Some mother!" snaps Liz. Steve says she has to have an equal say in bringing up their daughter. "Equal say? She's living with her lock, stock and barrel!" says Liz. Steve reckons he can see her whenever he wants. (Can he? I don't think so!) Liz isn't having that, and says that when she sees Tracy she'll tell her that Amy is staying with them tonight. She also wants to find out what Amy thinks about it all. Steve and Becky just sit and say nothing until Liz leaves the room. Then, "Becky, what've we done?" mutters Steve.

Sophie arrives back in a taxi, with her mum and Sian. Kevin rushes over from the garage to greet her, and gives her a hug. Sally scowls and orders her inside the house, it's cold.

Deirdre and Tracy walk into the Rovers, and while Deirdre gives Liz a welcoming hug, Tracy walks behind the bar. Liz is shocked to hear that she's working there now.

Sally is fussing round Sophie who's on the sofa under a duvet. Sally doesn't want to go to work and leave her, but Sophie says she'll be fine, Sian will look after her.

Frank wanders into the Rovers and Tracy's perks up. "Who's that? he's gorgeous," she asks Sean. Sean advises her to steer clear, Frank's been sniffing round Maria. Ignoring him, Tracy goes over and, all flirty, asks Frank what he's having. He says he'll have lager, if she's paying. "Oh know," says Tracy, "I always like the man to pay, I know my place." "Usually behind you with a blunt instrument," mutter Liz in the background. Tracy continues to flirt with him, and when he pays for his drink he tells her to get one for herself. "Where'd you get her from?" he asks Liz. "Tarts R Us," says Liz, to Deirdre's horror.

Fiz is pressuring Chesney to get rid of Schmeichel. She doesn't like him round the baby. "Look at him, he's jealous of her," she says, as poor Schmeichel just sits there. Chesney takes him off to work with him, telling Fiz that when he gets back later there's something he wants to talk to her about.

Tracy is still flirting with Frank, and eventually he offers to buy her a drink later, and they arrange to meet up in the Rovers at 8pm, much to Liz's annoyance. "Is there anything else you're not telling me?" she asks Steve. Just then David and Kylie come in and stand at the bar. Liz can hardly believe her eyes. "What are you doing here?" she asks Kylie. "Well, here's a clue, this is a pub and I'm thirsty," says Kylie. Liz is stunned to hear that she and David are an item, but relieved to learn that she's not actually living at the Rovers. Before she goes, saying she has to have a lie down in a darkened room, Liz stops to tell Tracy that if she's going off to paint the town with her fancy man, she can leave Amy with them. "Bring her pyjamas," she says. Tracy smiles and agrees. "It's all about teamwork," she says.

What Liz actually does is to go outside and sit down on the bench with a ciggie. Deirdre goes out to her and asks what's bothering her. She wonders if it's because Amy is living with her mum. "Give the girl an A-level," says Liz. Just then, Owen comes along. "Welcome home," he says. Liz wants to know how he can stand there all sweetness and light after what he did to Jim. Owen feigns ignorance and walks away. Deirdre then stands up and says they need to have this out, so they go off together to the cafe.

Kevin sees Sally outside the factory and asks how Sophie is. She tells him that Sophie's ribs hurt but was adamant Sally went to work, and that Sian is keeping an eye on her. Kevin asks if they can talk. "What we doing now, singing?" snaps Sally. "About us," he says. "There is no US," Sally shouts, "Sophie is all that matters now."

In the cafe, Liz asks Deirdre if she honestly thinks Tracy is fit to look after Amy. Deirdre hotly defends her daughter, saying that Steve and Becky aren't exactly model parents. Liz points out that they haven't been inside for murder. Deirdre retorts that they were turned down for adoption, but Liz reckons the system is at fault. They continue arguing until Deirdre snaps that Liz wasn't bothered about Amy when she went off to Spain - she's a fair-weather grandma, and with that she gets up and walks out.

Tyrone then comes in and Liz tells him she was sorry to hear about Molly, and he thanks her. She says it seems like she turned her back for five minutes and the whole world has changed.

Sally's getting dinner and talking to Sophie when there's a knock on the door. It's Jeff, with a card for Sophie, and he asks if there's anything he can do to help. Sally says no, but Sophie thinks he could take her mum out for a drink. He thinks that would be a good idea too, so, after a small protest, Sally goes off upstairs to change her top.

Liz goes into the newly refurbished corner shop and enthuses about it to a rather sullen Sunita. She then tries to make conversation about Sophie and Molly but it's like pulling teeth and Sunita gives curt responses. Liz presses on. "Thank God Becky found you in time, you could call her your guardian angel," she says. Sunita stares at her. "I could think of better words."

Owen and his two daughters are round at Fiz and Chesney's. While Izzy coos over the baby, Owen wants to know why they've been summoned. Chesney tells them all that he understands why Fiz has a problem with his dog, so he's moving out. Katie stands up and tells them all that she's moving in with him. Owen, obviously, is not at all happy to hear this, but they tell him they're going - now. Everyone is shocked, and Izzy asks where they're going. Ches tells her it's Janice's old flat, and off they go.

Tracy takes Amy into the Rovers with her overnight bag. Sean asks Tracy if she's looking forward to her date. She is, and she asks what Frank's name is and what he does. Sean explains he's in the lingerie business, he buys the knickers they make in the factory. This pleases Tracy, but she's not so pleased that he had his eye on Maria. Just then, Frank comes in and Tracy is obviously delighted to see him. Her delight is short-lived however, as he tells her he's had a work call so can't make their date. He'll make it up to her, he promises. She tells him blokes only get one chance with her and he just blew it. He says he's sorry, and he came in person to tell her. "Your loss, mister," she says, turning away and downing her vodka.

It's happy families however, in the back room of the pub. Amy is clearly overjoyed to be with Steve, Becky and her nana again. Liz then mentions to them how strange she thought Sunita was behaving earlier, and wonders if the crash has sent her a bit funny. She says everything has changed since she went to Spain. Steve and Becky say nothing, and then he suggests she has an early night but Liz says nothing is going to stop her having a top night with her favourite grand daughter. Nothing except Tracy that is, as next minute the door bursts open and she comes in, telling Amy to get her stuff, she's going home. Liz points out that Tracy agreed that Amy could stay with them, but Tracy says Frank changed their plans. Liz says she can't just take her on a whim, the poor child won't know whether she's coming or going. She asks Amy what she wants to do, and Amy says she wants to stay. Tracy won't be moved, however, and ends up taking a weeping little girl away. Liz turns to Steve and tells him he's as much use as a chocolate Teasmade.

Chesney and Katie, along with Schmeichel, let themselves into their new home. There's no furniture, the place is bare. They sit on the floor with fish and chip boxes and Katie says she feels it's all going to go pear shaped. Chesney assures her he's going to work really hard to get furniture and all the things they need. Katie says that now they're living together they can start trying for a baby.

Kevin walks into the pub and sees Sally at the bar. He asks if he can get her a drink but she declines, and then Jeff comes up. Taking in the situation, Kevin snaps that she's left their sick daughter alone so she can come out with her new boyfriend. Sally turns to Jeff and suggests they go to the Wethy Arms, then she turns back to Kevin and informs him that her coming out with Jeff was Sophie's idea, and she isn't alone but with her very nice girlfriend who is more than capable of keeping an eye on her. Then she tells him he'll soon be hearing from her solicitor. "Have a nice night, Kevin," she says as she walks away.

In the back room, Liz is pondering on why Steve and Becky seem to be letting Tracy call the shots. Steve tries to tell her that they've decided not to make scenes in front of Amy, they don't want to buy into that kind of parenting. Liz reckons they won't be doing any parenting at all that way, and isn't satisfied. "I know something's up," she says, sure there's something they're not telling her. Eventually she decides that there's one person who will tell her, Tracy herself, and Liz is going to ask her tomorrow!

Anne Logan

Only one update for Friday because there was only one episode - an hour long one.

Things are very cheery in the Webster household but Sophie worries when Sally says she's got an appointment after work. She asks if it's the hospital but Sally says she's going to see a solicitor about a divorce. Sophie says she's fine with that but she is suddenly not so cheerful.

Max wants his Mickey Mouse socks and Liz wants Amy back in her household. She asks Steve if it was Becky who didn't want Amy there. She's still going on (and on and on and on) about how odd it is that Amy's living next door.

Chris thinks it odd that Maria's reluctant to go back to work. She's only been there a couple of weeks. As they get to the factory Carla arrives and announces that Janice will be training Eileen today. Carla checks with Maria that she's OK coming back to work and tells her that Frank will be there later.

Liz isn't leaving it! She's next door talking to Deirdre about Tracy snatching back Amy last night. Tracy comes in and is annoyed to see Liz. Liz questions her about why Steve gave up Amy. "Maybe he's mellowing in his old age," says Tracy. Liz thinks Tracy must have some kind of hold over Steve and Ken urges Tracy to tell them anything she's holding back. Tracy snaps that there isn't and that she's going back to bed. Liz tells her that whatever the story is, she'll find out. Deirdre rolls her eyes and sighs in graphic close-up.

Chesney and Katie wake up on the floor of their flat wondering if Katie's pregnant already.

In the factory, things are very snippy among the machinists, with Janice breathing down Eileen's neck. Eileen insists she's been sewing all her life and threatens to stitch Janice's head to the bench as a demonstration of her skills. Maria shouts at them to shut them up and tells everyone to get on with their work. "I love it when you're masterful," says Frank, who has just walked in. Sean reckons he'll love Tracy Barlow then, because she was furious at being stood up. Carla sends Frank to the office and then rounds on Sean, telling him not to speak to clients as if they're mates. Maria's horrified to hear that he's interested in Tracy.

Graeme and Xin rehearse their back story. Apparently they met in the supermarket. They look at the pictures of Christmas with the neighbours. Graeme asks about Xin's family and she says her parents died in a car crash.

Kevin calls to see how Sophie is. She asks if Kevin's going to the appointment with Sally. It's clear he knows nothing about it. He asks Sophie how she feels and she says if it's going to happen then they might as well get on with it.

In the cafe, Chesney and Katie discuss sources of furniture . . . like the skip on Viaduct Street. they're sharing a Cola with two straws. Owen comes in and breaks the news to them that he's contacted their landlord and asked about the guarantor. He's let the landlord know that the couple forged Owen's signature as the guarantor on the flat. He expects Katie home for tea at six, "because you're about to be evicted."

In the Rovers' bar Becky tells Steve Liz hasn't spoken to her all morning. Eileen's talking to Sean about the factory job. She's not happy. At least at taxi office she was the boss, even if that's not what Steve and Lloyd thought.

Dev comes in and Liz, who's busy serving someone else, calls for Becky to serve him. Dev says he'll wait.

In the street, Chris tells Maria that if she doesn't like the job she should pack it in. Once he's gone back to work, Maria dashes across the street to talk to Tracy. She tells her she's had a lucky escape. Tracy thinks Maria's trying to get Frank for herself so Maria has to spell out exactly what she's trying to warn about: "He tried to rape me."

Xin meets Tina in the street and says Graeme's gone to the registry office to book a date. Izzy comes out of the factory door and they scream abuse at each other and part.

Tracy doesn't believe Maria, so Maria stomps off.

Izzy meets Chesney and Katie and she's not that sympathetic because they shouldn't have forged Owen's signature in the first place. But Katie says if they can't get somewhere round here they'll just have to leave and go somewhere where they can be together.

Liz cross-examines Dev and says he looked as if he was trying to avoid Steve and Becky earlier. He says she'll have to ask Steve and Becky about that, then just swigs down his drink and walks out. Eileen tells Liz there was some kind of row, Becky got thrown out of the shop and Dev hasn't spoken to Steve or Becky since. Liz remembers that Sunita was very funny with her earlier.

Janice rushes in and says she's sure she saw Trevor in a bin lorry.

Chesney and Katie are moving - that means rolling up their sleeping bag. The doorbell goes and Izzy asks if they can come down.

Liz traps Becky in the back room and asks about her falling out with the Alahans. Becky's very evasive. Liz says Becky's already wrecked Steve's family and now she's wrecking his friendships as well. "Is there any part of his life you haven't destroyed?"

Janice goes to see Carla and asks if she knows whether Trevor is back. It's news to her. When Janice goes, Carla thanks Maria for coping and keeping cool when Frank was there. She says another client has gone bust so Frank's business is vital.

Kevin's shutting the garage when he sees Sally. He races over to ask her about the solicitor. He thought they'd agreed to put things on hold because of Sophie. But Sally says Sophie's fine with it. What really upsets her is seeing them at each other's throats. She suggests he stop kicking off and act in a civilized manner. She tells him they should meet with their solicitors to decide who gets what.

Fiz and Owen congratulate themselves on stopping Chesney and Katie living together. But the kids come round the corner with Izzy, who has just signed to be their new guarantor. She says they were going to run away but now they'll be across the road where the families can keep an eye on them. Owen's furious and shouts that Katie can't come running back to him when it all goes wrong. Ches marches straight up to him, puts his face close to Owen's and says quietly: "It won't. I'll make sure of it." As he walks away, Izzy looks pleased.

When Tina arrives at the flat, Graeme and Xin look very glum. All the register offices are booked up for the next eight weeks and by then Xin's visa will have run out.

Liz arrives in the shop and Dev immediately says he can't talk to her about it. She keeps questioning. Dev says he'd love to talk to her but Sunita's sworn him to secrecy. He does reveal that although Becky saved Sunita's life, it came at a price. Liz wonders why everyone's protecting Becky. As with most people on the street, Dev can only stand up to a maximum of six questions before telling Liz that Becky looted the shop and stole five grand.

Frank parks his car and gets out to talk to Tracy. Tracy immediately tells him what Maria said. He says it was a misunderstanding and he misread the signals or she changed her mind. "I swear to you, apart from a kiss nothing happened." He says he's been apologising to Maria but apparently it's not enough. He thinks Tracy won't be interested now but she says he owes her a night out. They agree to meet in the Rovers later. He has to do something first.

In the factory, Carla shuts down the computer, turns off the lights and heads for the door. Frank is waiting in the darkness and terrifies her. He says he's canceling the order. He won't work with people who slander him. Carla's confused. "Ask Maria," he says.

Norris tries to get some service in the pub. Behind the bar, Steve's trying to reassure Becky that everything will be all right. Liz comes in but she's not interested in service Norris either. She demands that Steve and Becky come to the back room - now. "Problem?" asks Norris, interested. Tina comes in with some mixers and asks him what she's missed.

Becky admits the theft to Liz. She says she paid Kylie to save Max.

Carla's trying to get Maria but it keeps going to voicemail.

Liz points out that in some countries looting is a hangable offence. She says they should have gone to social services and the police and taken their chances. Kylie was trying to sell her own son and had already abandoned Max once. Steve admits that Kylie didn't abandon Max that time but they paid her money which was borrowed against the pub. Liz is appalled they've put her pub in danger. It gets worse when Liz discovers that Tracy also knows. "Now this makes sense. That's why she's got Amy."

Back in the bar, said Tracy has arrived. Liz comes out and cheerfully asks for a quick word. Watched by Norris (sure he would have learned to lipread by now?), Liz asks what Tracy thinks she's playing at. "I knew you were damaged goods but blackmailing Steve with his own daughter?" Tracy still claims innocence. Liz takes her by the coat lapels and threatens her, which draws the attention of Ken and Deirdre. Tracy says Liz doesn't think she's a fit mother. Deirdre tells Liz that's for Steve and Tracy to sort out. Liz flounces off and Deirdre neck frenzies her annoyance at not being able to have a quiet drink.

In the back hall, Becky tries to talk to Liz but Liz screams, "Stay away from me!"

Becky goes into the bar and snaps at Kylie and David, who have just come in. They ask to see Liz - they're thinking of organising their reception at the pub. Becky says she's unavailable. Becky says she's not having Kylie and her scummy mates turning the place over. Tina and Sean are interested to hear they've set a date - April 8.

Carla finds Maria and Chris in the street on their way to the Rovers. She asks for a quiet word and Chris goes ahead to the pub.

Tracy's drinking with her parents when Frank comes in and they're introduced. Frank and Tracy are leaving when Frank hears someone call Chris by his name and introduces himself.

Back in the factory, Carla pours a couple of drinks and tells Maria about Frank. Maria admits she spoke to Tracy. "I felt I had to warn her about him." Carla wonders how the "poor, defenceless, ‘I topped the last fella who tried to mess with me' Tracy" reacted. "don't tell me she laughed in your face." Carla tells Maria that Frank's pulled the contract. "I hope you're proud of yourself Maria, I really do, because your little display of female solidarity's just killed this woman's business. Cheers."

At home, Sian asks Sophie if she's really all right about the divorce. Sophie says she is. She says she needed a wake-up call and now she's had it. She thinks God chipped in and helped with her landing.

Tina goes home and Becky goes into the bar to talk to Steve. "I do need you to tell me that it's all going to be all right," she says. Steve can't. She says that's how they roll but Steve says it's not just about them any more. Becky says Liz wasn't there that night. This infuriated Steve, who thinks Becky is playing the victim. She says she's going to find a way to put their little family back together. She begs him to stand by her just this one last time.

Xin's still glum. Tina arrives and tells them she might have found a solution but they might not like it because it kind of involves David and Kylie.

Maria tries to tell Carla there are options. Selling on the internet. Diversifying. Carla's pessimistic about everything. Maria says she's not the bad guy her but Carla tells her honesty isn't always the best policy.

In a nice restaurant or maybe a club, Frank speaks to the waiter by name and Tracy says he knows how to live. He admits he likes nice things. Tracy describes herself as hard work. "you're bad," he says in an admiring voice.

Graeme etc have put the idea to David and Kylie. Kylie thinks a double wedding might be fun. Graeme says they'd foot the bill for the reception. David's still reluctant but Kylie's keen and persuades him.

Becky apologises to Liz. "I will make this right," she says, but Liz laughs. Becky is dead to her, she says. She tells Steve that Becky hurts people. She says Becky has cost Steve his daughter, his livelihood and his good name. "I might only lose my best mate." She tells them about the confrontation with Tracy downstairs but says she didn't say anything to Ken and Deirdre. Becky's already humiliated the family enough without Liz adding to it. When Becky says goodnight and leaves the room, Steve tells Liz she didn't have to be so hard on Becky. "Someone has to," she answers.

Frank's brought Tracy home and tries to say goodnight but she points out it's not even midnight. He thought maybe she wanted to take it slowly. Tracy says she likes him. She's a big girl and isn't taking dating tips from that loser Maria. She suggests they go to his place. He says he has a very nice bottle of wine he's been saving for a special occasion. Tracy kisses him and it's not long before they're off to his place.

Liz thinks Steve looks tired. "What has she done to you?" Steve says he's as much to blame as Becky is. He's being loyal as a husband and father. Liz points out that he's Amy's father, not Max's. She tells him he can't live like this. Steve asks if she's trying to make him choose between his wife and his daughter but Liz doesn't think there's any question of making a choice. She starts to go on about their quest to have children. "Oh, belt up!" he says. But Liz keeps going. "Becky was never meant to be a mother! you're not the problem. She is!" Steve says he's never going to leave Becky so Liz will just have to deal with that. Liz shouts back that he shouldn't expect her to pick up the pieces. Then she leaves him in the bar with his head in his hands.

The End.
Margaret Carr

Written by Martin Allen Directed by Duncan Foster

Things are still frosty in the McDonald household. Becky tries to be friendly to Steve when she comes in but he's cool. She's so anxious to make things right with him and even Liz and she knows it's all her fault but would appreciate him supporting her when he knows she has to put up with his mother's sniping constantly. He doesn't seem inclined and as Max comes in just then, Steve takes the opportunity to leave.

Janice sees Katy and Chesney moving stuff into her old flat. She's surprised they're even old enough to live on their own. We're 16, Chesney admonishes her. Right. Across the road, Frank has driven Tracy home while Maria stalks by with a knot in her face. Tracy unhelpfully hollers down the road as Maria walks past trying to ignore her, accusing her of running off after crying rape. Nice.

Janice is in the cafe, all gloomy and down. She asks Anna about her weekend. Anna says they're still waiting to hear about the adoption. Janice turns around to go and walks right into Tall Trevor who's just come in. Seems he has been back about a month but has been busy. He's back on the bins and they make a tentative date to meet up for a drink sometime. Janice fairly skips back to the factory, she's that pleased to see him again.

Kevin sees Sally coming in to work and asks after Sophie. He also asks if she is willing to hash out their agreements without the solicitors to save them some money. He says he's not going to try to win her back, just wants things to go smoothly and asks her to lunch in the Rovers. Maybe.

In the factory, Janice is telling the others about Trevor. She's not told Carla yet. Carla has arrived and in the office, Maria has been making lists for places to try to call to drum up business. Carla isn't very optimistic. She goes out to tell the workers that they've lost the order and she's going to have to reduce their hours. Everyone is agog.

Tina arrives for work, full of the joys of spring. She walks into the frosty air behind the bar. Liz gives her her work orders for the first few chores and then criticizes the state of the glasses. Becky takes it as given and asks Liz to make an effort, same as she's trying to do. Liz rudely turns her back on Becky. Graeme comes in and Tina pretends to be stroppy with him. Graeme has actually come in to see Liz and make arrangements for the wedding reception in the pub. Becky is shocked to hear that the wedding includes Kylie and David and even more shocked that Liz allowed this all right under Becky's nose. When Graeme asks if they can change a 10 pound note, Liz says there's no change. Becky says there's money in the safe but Liz points out that she knows exactly how much they have and checks it very carefully these days, making it very clear she doesn't trust Becky. There's more pointed remarks but when Liz is sarcastic about Roy, Becky shouts just as Steve comes in and witnesses it.

In the factory, everyone is trying to figure out what is going on. Janice figures instead of reducing hours, they should sack someone. Last in first out means it would be Eileen and you can imagine how well that goes down. Carla has overheard Janice mouthing off and tells her off for wasting time.

Back to the pub, Steve is scolding both of them for griping in front of the punters. Becky is holding herself quite well while Liz's temper boils over. Becky implores Steve to understand that Liz is baiting her. He thinks she should rise above it and she is trying, but .. but... Steve says they have to make a go of the pub or it's game over so basically, he's telling her to suck it up. (and not telling his mother to give it a rest). He leaves and Liz moves in for the kill. She blames herself, there's Steve for going with women that are in and out of prison, looting their neighbours, where did she go wrong? Becky reaches the end of her tolerance, snatches a large bottle of cider off the bar that Tina's just brought up from the cellar and tells Liz she wins and storms out.

Outside Steve sees her carrying the booze and runs after her. Becky defends herself and says Liz turns on her the minute he was out the door. If Liz thinks Becky's a lowlife, she's going to behave like one. Steve orders her back to work. No dice. Expect her when he sees her!

I guess Sally isn't meeting Kevin, or at least not right away, because she's having a sandwich at home. Cheryl arrives to measure up for when she and Lloyd take over the house. Sally is a bit taken aback but allows it. In a typical soap opera plot, Cheryl insults Sally's decorating taste and mentions various things she's going to change.

Rosie is chatting to Kevin in the pub and he's telling her that he doesn't think Sally would consider coming back. Seems she's not meeting him and he's been stood up. Over at another booth, the factory bees are having a drink. Eileen and Janice are bitching at each other. Sally finally arrives to talk to Kevin. Rosie leaves them to it and Sally sits down. He proposes they split everything down the middle. But he also tells her he's taking the house off the market and she can stay there as long as she wants. She's happier now.

Chesney comes in to get the last of his stuff. She's in the middle of a cleaning frenzy and tells Chesney that John is coming home from the hospital. She's nervous that he isn't ready but Ches reckons they wouldn't let him out otherwise. He says she's not hurting for money at least but isn't happy when she says she's not telling John about Joy's money. Chesney thinks John being home with her and the baby will probably be good for him. He might even make a decent husband. He also won't hold his breath.

Becky lurches off the bus, trashed. Tracy sees her and starts in on her. Becky isn't having it and sinks down on Maxine's bench, dazed.

In the pub, Maria is making phone calls and isn't getting very successful results. Lloyd and Cheryl come in and Sally makes Kevin tell them they've taken the house off the market due to the new settlement. Seeing as they've not exchanged contracts yet, he can get away with it. Sally gets her smug face in there, too, of course. Back in the factory girls' booth, Janice is trying to convince them all to strike to protest the cutbacks. Unfortunately, Carla has arrived and has overheard. This isn't going to be good. And indeed, Carla slinks around the corner and sacks Janice. I hope she can back that up because Janice would have a good cause for a tribunal. Carla tells the others that the factory is very close to shutting down.

David and Kylie come giggling across the road. Kylie sees Becky propped up against a wall and gives her a dirty look. They continue on. Anna sees Janice come out of the pub, her face down by her knees somewhere and asks if everything is ok? Janice admits to being sacked due to her big gob. Now she's got no job, no flat and no fella.

Becky is now sucking on a bottle of voddy and she pounds on the Platt door. Gail opens it, face like thunder. Becky wants to see Kylie but Gail is trying to prevent her. Unsuccessfully. Becky pushes past her. She slurs insults to Kylie, calling her down for grassing her up to the adoption panel and blackmailing her. She accusing Kylie of ruining Becky's life. Kylie isn't afraid of Becky but perhaps she should be because Becky launches herself at her sister and there's a massive physical knock down drag out on the Platt carpet. Becky ends up with a bloody nose but she's given Kylie one and rounds back on David as well before she's finally shoved outside and had the door shut on her.

In the factory, Maria comes in and admits she knows things aren't going to improve unless she apologizes to Frank.

Becky staggers into the pub, blood running down her face. Liz doesn't look surprised. Becky points out she's just proved Liz right. Liz thinks Becky needs to sober up before Max comes home. Becky rants at Liz, saying that Steve owns the pub and her name is only over the door because of Steve's record. Liz can't get two words in around Becky's ranting and accusations. She tells Liz that she's no better than her and calls her a tart with a bus pass! Liz hollers at her to get out but Becky turns it back on Liz. She throws Liz out and has a right to, she's the wife of the owner. Get out before she does something "what she regrets". Liz leans in, face to face, and hisses. "You have no idea what you have just started!" She turns on a heel and stalks out, Becky bloody behind the bar and thinking job's a good'un. Sorted.

Stay tuned for part two. It's really going to kick off!

Tvor

Okay Tvor promised that it was all about to kick off - so time to dive in. Events tonight were written by Peter Whalley and directed by Duncan Foster.

The Underworld girls are largely heading to the Rovers for a drink - although Sal is off elsewhere. Eileen asks Liz if she is alright but the latter says she is not. A drunk has just thrown her out of her own pub. Liz asks Lloyd to tell Steve to go and run the pub because Becky is not capable. In the Rovers a blood covered Becky is trying to run the place - Sean dashes behind the bar and takes over serving whilst Hayley ushers Becky into the back room for a cup of coffee. Becky reckons she is the one calling the tune - but she is a rambling drunk.

Carla and Maria discuss seeing Frank - Maria agrees to phone him and give him the required apology. Maria is extremely nervous.

Becky tells Hayley she has rowed with Liz and Kylie. She is finding it difficult and tries to down another drink. Hayley wants to know what has happened but Becky refuses to tell her - she used to be happy but well before that she miserable but then she met Steve and got married - but now it has all gone wrong.

Liz is with Eileen who is running down her daughter in law. Liz knows that Steve will take Becky's side - he always does.

Steve returns to the Rovers and Hayley departs. Becky tells Steve about the ding dong with Kylie and Becky says she is not having that woman look at her like that! Like what asks Steve. Like I have just crawled out of the gutter Becky answers. Steve is going to make her another cup of coffee and he wants to know what happened - she tries to remind him they were fine until Liz came back. Steve and Becky continue to argue and Steve reminds her that Liz is the name over the door. Becky complains about Liz.

And a few doors along over a glass or more of vino, Liz is complaining about Becky in very similar terms. And of course what they both want is to know which one Steve loves the most. Liz's mobile rings - it is Steven and Liz denies that there has been a falling out - but she has been shouted at by a drunk and told to get out of her own pub. Anyway Steve does not want an argument. Steve offers to go round and talk to her.

Lloyd has brought Peter, Leanne and Simon back to the Street and they find Janice waiting for them. Janice wants to see the photos and she offers to make a brew.

Carla and Maria discuss what she is going to say to Frank, who arrives in the background but we have to wait until after the break.

Carla tells Frank they do not want to lose the order. He is willing to find a new supplier and has been thinking about using his solicitor. Eventually and with great reluctance Maria says she is sorry - but does not sound as though she means it. They discuss it further and she apologises again and she says that they both misread the situation. With reluctance Frank accepts the apology.

Janice has told Leanne that she is out of work and no chance of going back to work. Peter wants to get on - and Janice takes the hint and goes. [I wish Leanne would put some weight on]. Janice goes outside in the rain looking unloved when Trevor finds her and he takes her for a pint so she can tell him about the burglary.

Sal and Jeff head out leaving Sian and Sophie at home. They head for the Rovers.

Carla and Maria are in the Rovers and tell the workforce they have plenty of work now. They see Janice and Trevor and Janice hopes the sight of Trevor upsets Carla.

Becky comes into the bar and slags Liz off to Sean - who would like some help.

Steve is trying to pour oil on the troubled waters by asking both Liz and Becky to behave better towards each other. Eileen reckons Liz should return and should say nothing and wait for Becky to make the first move. Steve's phone goes and Liz shouts at Steve that Becky should control her temper. Becky shouts down the phone telling him that Liz had better behave. He ends the call and Becky is not amused - she hatches a plan.

Sal makes it clear to Jeff that he will not be staying over for a while.

Frank and Tracy come into the Rovers and he offers to buy a drink - which Maria can hardly refuse.

Trevor has split up from the girlfriend again.

Becky comes rushing downstairs with armfuls of clothes and as Liz, Steve and Eileen come out onto the Street Becky throws all of the clothes skywards and then land in a puddle and Liz's clothes are ruined. Becky tells Liz that she is barred from the pub and from their lives. It is her home and that is it forever.

Eileen takes Liz back home and Tracy just smirks and rushes into the Rovers to tell everyone what happened.

Steve and Becky argue. Steve reminds Becky about Amy - handed over to Tracy so they could keep Max. And Becky realises she is responsible for everything and that she is driving everyone away - including Steve. And he leaves her.

Back next week.
K Richard W

Sean comes downstairs to find a very tired Eileen watching over Liz who's asleep on the sofa. She hasn't had much sleep, she wanted to wait before going upstairs to make sure an inebriated Liz didn't fall asleep with a burning ciggie in her hand. Sean asks if Eileen found out why Becky threw Liz out. Eileen doesn't know, but says that Liz was very upset.

Becky creeps downstairs and opens the door to the back room. Steve is there, going through paperwork. She says that she's going to take Max to nursery, he was asking why Steve slept downstairs, so would he like to come with them? "What, and pretend everything's all right?" snaps Steve, adding that his mum now hates his guts and has gone AWOL. "It wasn't all my fault you know," mumbles Becky. Steve says she should listen to herself. They are skint, and their car crash of a marriage is heading towards a cliff, and all she can do is say it wasn't her fault. Becky says she's got a guilty conscience, and Steve says she's earned it.

Back at Eileen's, Liz has woken up, hungover. Her phone rings, it's Steve, so she doesn't answer. Eileen points out she'll have to speak to him sooner or later, and Becky too. "The only way I'll speak to her again is through a medium!" says Liz.

Outside the factory, Sean tells the girls how Liz spent the night on Eileen's sofa. They discuss how sad it is not to have a man and a home at Liz's age, and then Sally comes across the street. Sean points out that she's almost Liz's age and she got back in the saddle pretty quickly. Sally's quick to point out that she's a lot younger than Liz and anyway, Jeff is just a friend.

In the Rovers, Steve is leaving yet another message on Liz's phone. Tracy says she might not be a saint, but at least she doesn't stagger around drunk, picking fights with people. "No, you just off 'em when they get on your nerves," retorts Steve, and walks outside. Tracy runs after him and tells him that being married to Becky has rubbed off on him. He's become viscous. He apologises, and tells her he's tired of it all. She pats his arm sympathetically, just as Becky comes out of the Kabin across the road and sees them.

Across the Street, Peter is standing with a cuppa, smoking. Leanne comes out to see if he's ok. He says he is, it's just weird being back. He asks her to give him a bit of time. "How about the rest of my life?" she says, kissing him. Just then Cheryl and Lloyd appear and Leanne says she was sorry to hear about the house falling through. Lloyd tells them they've got their eye on No 13, Claire and Ashley's house. Peter didn't know it was on the market. It isn't, but Lloyd can't see Claire coming back, and it would be perfect for the three of them. Leanne invites them for dinner later, so they can have a proper catch up.

Julie announces to the factory workers that Fiz's John is coming home tomorrow. "Is he all right?" asks Sean. "He was never all right," snaps Sally. Just then Janice comes in, she's come for her wages and her P45. Julie hands her an envelope, they've had a whip round for her. Sean says some people will miss her. "Not many," mutters Eileen, and a few moments later a fight breaks out. Carla comes in and shouts at Janice to get in the office so they can get it over with, and then shouts at Eileen, saying she's just got rid of one trouble maker, she doesn't need another.

Steve arrives back at the Rovers to find Liz heading off out of the door with her bags packed. He apologises to her and asks where she's going. "Anywhere that's away from here," she says. He says the Rovers is her home. "Not while she's in it, she's poison," says Liz, and tells him he made the biggest mistake of his life when he let her in to it. Steve mutters that Becky is his wife and he still loves her. Liz tells him Becky will ruin his life and she can't stay there and watch it happen. Tearfully, she kisses him, picks up her bags and walks out.

Janice is on the steps outside Underworld, counting her wages. Trevor comes along and they decide to go off to the pub to spend it.

We then see Liz, sobbing, and shuffling off down the Street.

Tracy's working in the pub (and short-changing Gail!) when Frank comes in and asks if she'd like to join him later and take a trip into town.

The factory workers come in and find Janice drinking her wages away with Trevor. Julie is shocked to realise that she's been in the pub all afternoon, and says that Carla might be in later. Trevor doesn't want to hang around so Julie says they can go back to her place.

Liz is sitting alone in a hotel bar when a suited gent starts chatting her up. After a few minutes of listening to his flannel, she tells him she heard him on the phone earlier, saying goodnight to his wife and kids, and tells him to get lost.

Sally is in the pub, chatting to Gail about Jeff. She says she never thought she'd be with anyone except Kevin, but she likes Jeff, he's funny and charming. Gail tells her if he makes her happy, go for it. Just then Jeff comes in, so Gail makes a quick exit.

As she's heading for the door, she bumps into Frank, who reckons she was a little harsh with Tracy earlier. He wants to know what the problem is. Gail tells him they have history. "Well, it's hardly a crime, is it?" he says. "About the only one she hasn't committed," says Gail.

Lloyd and Cheryl are at Peter and Leanne's place. Leanne asks Cheryl if she's met the new head teacher at the school. Apparently he's some kind of super head who wants to push the children to be outstanding achievers. Cheryl says she's been asked to go up and see him next week. "Sounds ominous," says Leanne.

Liz is still in the bar when Jim comes up behind her. She's amazed to see him, and he tells her that Andy rang him and told him she was feeling down, and told him where she was staying.

Sally takes Jeff home, but they both seem a bit awkward with each other. He asks where Sophie is, and Sally tells him she's staying at a friend's. (Who? And where's Sian?) She offers him a drink but then finds there's none in the house so he goes off to the shop to get a bottle of wine and some milk.

Jim and Liz are discussing Steve and Becky. He can't see how Steve can take Becky's side against his mother's. He wonders what sort of person Becky is, who can steal from an injured woman. He says he's got a good mind to go round there..... Liz interrupts him, telling him he mustn't, it would just make things worse. Steve is up to his eyes in debt, he hardly ever sees Amy and before long Becky will run the pub into the ground. Jim asks if she's just going to run back to Spain and forget everything she's worked for. Liz asks if he's got any better ideas. "Well, why don't you buy the boozer off them?" asks Jim.

Back at the Rovers, Frank starts to make excuses again to Tracy. She says she saw him talking to Gail and wants to know what he was told. He admits that Gail said Tracy was banged up for killing the last fella she was with. Tracy tells him that she'd been in a bad relationship and was attacked. She defended herself and he died. Frank asks why he should believe her, if he's wrong it's a high price to pay. Tracy says he should give her the benefit of the doubt, the way she did when Maria accused him of trying to rape her. Frank pauses for a moment, then tells her he'll go and get the car and see her outside. He goes off and Tracy goes to the phone. She orders several large pizzas to be delivered to 8 Coronation St. "And the name is Gail," she says, "Gail McIntyre."

Sally and Jeff are on the sofa, finishing off the bottle of wine. She tells him she's enjoyed the evening and really likes him, but she's a bit scared. He tells her he understands, she only has to say the word and he'll go. "Stay," says Sally, and they kiss.

Out in the Street, Gail is shouting at a delivery driver that she did not order pizzas. Steve finds Becky outside the Rovers, and she says she saw that Liz had come for her stuff, and adds that she's not proud of herself. He tells her he doesn't want to talk about it, he wants a drink and he wants to go to bed. "Do you want to go to our bed? Or the sofa again?" asks Becky. He tells her he's not ready for that yet. "Do you hate me that much?" she asks. He tells her he'll see her in the morning, and goes inside.

As Jim walks Liz to her hotel room, he tells her she should go and see the bank manager to see if she can raise the capital to buy the pub. Then he leaves her at the door and goes.

Anne Logan

It's breakfast time and Jeff and Sally are in the kitchen. She's surprised he's still there. He's taken the morning off but Sally says she has to be at work at 9.

Trevor and Janice have breakfast in the cafe, discussing their good night last night. Trevor says he's gone off being a bin man. Janice tells him he needs the job. Trevor's now not hungry and goes off to work. Julie comes in and tells Janice she's not a big fan of Meatloaf at full volume in the early hours of the morning but Janice ignores that in her excitement to tell Julie that Trev kissed her. "Then what?" asks Julie. "He passed out on the sofa," says Janice. "Ooh, it's like Prince Charming in reverse," says Julie.

There's a banging and a hammering on the door of the Rovers. It's Jim, come to shout at Steve and Becky for being nasty to Liz. Jim says Liz doesn't know if he's here. He apologises for shouting and says he wants to see if he can sort things out.

Sally and Jeff discuss whether he'll be invited back and Sally says she'll be a free agent once she and Kevin have signed the divorce papers this afternoon. They start at a knock on the door and Jeff says he'll hide in case it's Kevin.

Yes, it is. And when Sally refuses to let him inside he clicks straight away that Jeff must be inside. Sally tells him to go to hell.

Becky, Steve and Jim talk about Liz, who is staying at a wee hotel in town and who hopes they can resolve things. "Families fall out, son – ours more than most. But there's always a way back so there is." "Not this time," Steve tells him. "I think you've had a wasted journey." Jim leaves but not before saying he's not giving up.

Leanne finds Janice looking very unwell near the bookies and it's clear that it's not just the hangover making her miserable. She still fancies the Day-glo tabard off Trevor but he's not interested and never has been.

Fiz polishes like crazy, ready for John to come home. Chesney is less than sympathetic about John and thinks he doesn't deserve Fiz. Fiz leaves him in charge of the baby while she goes to fetch John home.

Steve's at the garage seeing about getting his car serviced and Kevin tells him and Tyrone that he won't be there this afternoon because of what's formally called a Round Table meeting where he and Sally thrash out the details of the divorce and sign on the dotted line. He says there's no hope of a reconciliation after what happened this morning.

Jim meets Liz in the cafe (it's a long way to come for breakfast if Liz is at a hotel in town) and tells her he thinks Becky's got Steve under his thumb. Liz can't see a way out. Steve wants rid of the Rovers and she can't afford to buy it. Jim urges her to at least go and see her bank manager.

Roy has received a letter.

Kevin and Steve discuss Sally having a bloke in the house. You can almost see Norris's ears flapping. While Norris is getting Kevin's change, Steve asks for a couple of scratch cards. "Give us a couple as well," says Kevin, then, to Steve, "Sorry to jump in." Norris hands Kevin his cards, then Steve his.

Liz has called the bank and leaves to see them.

Anna's got a called to say the review meeting about the adoption has been moved again. Anna's stressed out at all the delays.

In the Rovers, Steve scratches his cards. "Nowt!" On the other side of the bar, Kevin scratches his and realises he's won. "Two hundred thousand quid!" And it's the first time we've seen him smile for ages.

Kevin's still smiling and Steve's mouth is hanging over.

Trevor's back, sans tabard. He's quit and tells Janice it's the best thing he's ever done.

Steve tells Kevin that he asked for the tickets first so by rights the winning ticket should be his. Kevin points out they're not a syndicate. He gives Steve what looks like ten quid for a drink. Then he orders drinks for the whole bar. Steve tells everyone Kevin's won the money, just in time for Tyrone to hear it and refuse to have a drink. Steve is annoyed and tells Becky he shouldn't have let Kevin jump in front of him (he's somehow forgotten that Kevin was already at the counter and being served).

Fiz and John head towards home. Fiz thinks he seems a lot better and John says that's the pills. He's ready to face everyone except Julie. Too late! Julie races almost the length of the street to hug him and welcome him home. John excuses himself, saying he's desperate to see Hope.

Inside, he asks Katie if he can hold the baby. "Of course you can. You're her dad." John sighs as he takes the baby.

Jim finds Owen in the cafe and takes the chance to have a go at him, saying he's here to see Elizabeth but while he's there he might look up an enemy or two. "I don't scare that easily," says Owen, turning away.

Trevor's bought himself a vehicle. Janice says now he can drive himself to the Job centre. But Trev says that last night when he was throwing up in Julie's bog for the third time, a voice in his head kept telling him to follow his dreams. "I got the car to go travelling in." Janice turns to the bar and orders a triple brandy and a lager top. "Kevin's paying."

Steve's still obsessing about his bad luck. Kevin doesn't look that happy. "I might be rich but I'm still getting a divorce," he says. Becky says Sally will be well chuffed that he's won the money. Kevin says she can go whistle. "We're separated. This money's mine!" Tyrone hears him.

Gary's at the door asking Chesney about borrowing the van. He's got a load of furniture wants shifting to Oldham. But Ches says he needs it tomorrow. "Bury Market – got to be there by eight." Chesney reminds Gary about his cut of the last use of the van and Izzy says it's so Ches can keep her sister in the manner to which she's accustomed.

As they walk away, Gary tells Izzy he needs his own wheels.

Kevin's late to the meeting with Sally. She's annoyed to smell alcohol on his breath. "I was celebrating," he says. He seems about to tell her about the money but Sally is very sarcastic about him celebrating the divorce before they've even signed the papers and says that afterwards she'd like to celebrate with a stretch limo and stick her head through the roof. They're called into the solicitor's office. Sally gives him a mint.

John's surprised at the clobber Hope has. Fiz says babies need a lot but John says he's just surprised at how much, considering money's tight. Fiz mutters something about generous friends and neighbours. Chesney saves the day by asking how John spent his days in hospital. John admits that he's realised that though he's made some terrible mistakes he now realises he can't change them so he just has to accept them and move on. He spots another piece of baby kit. "Blimey, we have got some generous friends and neighbours!"

Liz tells Jim the bank manager couldn't have been more than 18 and had a bright blue Crimplene uniform on. "I'm a bad risk, I've got no deposit and I'm too old," she tells him.

Sally and Kevin look at the outline agreement they have to sign and Sally has another piece of paper – her acknowledgement of service agreeing to Kevin's request for a divorce. Kevin tells her it's not too late and she doesn't have to sign anything.

It's pouring down in Weatherfield and Trev and Janice shelter under his coat as they leave the chippy. Trev asks Janice if she thinks he's mad going to Spain but Janice tells him she'll miss him. She tells him she realises last night was a drunken mistake. Wise Trevor tells her not to say that because it puts her down and it puts him down. She tells him she's liked him ever since he first came to look at the flat and doesn't want him to go because she'll miss him. "Come with me then." Janice's mouth falls open.

Sally tells Kevin the trust has gone so yes, she's sure she wants to end the marriage. "Where do I sign?" Just as Sally picks up the pen, Tyrone bursts into the room (lucky this is the one solicitor's office with internal glass windows so you can see who's in which room!). "Sal! Sal! Don't sign owt!" He asks if Kevin's told her about the money. Kevin says it isn't relevant. But Tyrone tells Sally Kevin's won the money. "Is that true?" she asks.

The end of the first episode. More soon.
Margaret Carr

Me again, with the second episode.

Sally realises why Kevin was celebrating. "He was trying to hide the money from me – that proves that legally he knows it's half mine." Kevin says he bought the ticket after catching Sally in bed with her boyfriend. His solicitor thinks he could have been told about it. Tyrone cheerfully leaves for the garage. "My work here is done," he says. Sally says she thinks they need to discuss a new settlement.

Trev quotes the Clash. "Should I stay or should I go?" Janice points out he's asking her to give up everything to go travelling with him. "I can't just up sticks." Trev says they've got a couple of hours to think it through logically and make a list of pros and cons. "OK, let's go!" says Janice. She's made up her mind and Trev seems pleased.

Julie tells Sean and Hayley how cheerful John seemed. She suggests popping in to see John but Hayley points out they should give him some time with Fiz and Hope first. This leads Julie to philosophise about mental illness and wonder if she'd know if she was ill. She urges Sean to tell her if he thought she was going funny. Sean points out she's batty already but Julie thinks he's joking. They go into the pub.

Roy hides his letter behind his back as Hayley pops in to say she's going to the Rovers. She asks what he's hiding but Roy refuses to admit he's got anything. Hayley gets annoyed and doesn't believe him when he says there's nothing for her to worry about. He does but Hayley isn't convinced and tells him he should have a good think about whether whatever it is is important enough to lie to her about.

Sally's very annoyed but Kevin points out he's let her keep the house and has shared the other assets. The money is his. Oh no it isn't, oh yes it is. . . The solicitors agree it's a very unusual situation. She says they were married when he won the money. Kevin says they were in the middle of a divorce and she had plenty of time to change her mind about that so the money's his. The lawyers suggest getting clarification of the legal position and ask for time.

Izzy asks her dad what he'd say if she asked for two thousand pounds but she can't tell him what for. "Are you pregnant?" he asks. "Is it a gambling debt? Is it drugs? Is it a medical problem?" It's none of these, so he says it's not important. Hypothetically he'd give it to her but without knowing the reason, he won't. Izzy tells him the reason but Owen refuses immediately. "It's not about Gary, it's you." He says he's remembered that she made it possible for Katie to shack up with her teenage boyfriend. "Bank's closed!"

The solicitors are both on their phones asking for advice. Sally's asks whether Kevin has the money. He says he's got the scratch card in his wallet. Sally's appalled that it's not somewhere safer. She wants to see the card but Kevin refuses. The lawyers come back and suggest an arbitration meeting, perhaps next week. Kevin thinks this is just a ruse so they can charge more. He's very annoyed and shouts at Sally to sign the papers she'd already agreed to. Sally's determined not to do that. Kevin offers her a hundred quid. She says it's mental cruelty but Kevin thinks her lying about sleeping with Tyrone was mental cruelty. Sally counters with his sleeping with his best mate's wife while she had cancer. Shout! Shout! Shout!

In the closed cafe, Hayley wonders if she should prepare for a nice surprise. Roy tells her not. He hands her the letter. It's from his mother and he's not opened it. "As soon as I saw that handwriting it brought it all back. Memories of unhappiness." He half hopes she's dead and the solicitor's sent the letter on after her death. Hayley opens it for him. Roy's mother's not dead but his stepfather is.

Leanne's incredulous. She can't believe Janice wants to go off with Trev. She urges Janice to change her mind. "Wake up! Get back to the real world." Janice asks for one good reason why she should stay around here. Leanne points out she's a reason. Janice points out Leanne's got Peter and Simon and doesn't need her. "I'll always need you!" says Leanne. Janice asks if Leanne is saying she should stay round her and be really miserable "because you can't cope on your own." She says she doesn't care what Leanne thinks. "I didn't come round here for permission. I came to say goodbye."

Sally and Kevin - Argue! Argue! Argue! (in circles) "My daughter needs to be at her piano class in half an hour," says Kevin's lawyer. Sally says there's no way she's signing anything. "This divorce is off!" She storms out.

In the Rovers, Roy says he last saw Roger over 30 years ago. He'd feel like a hypocrite going to the funeral. "I'll send a card." Hayley says he's all wound up and suggests he have another drink. Roy refuses. The oil in the fryer needs changing.

Sally's at the bar talking to Tyrone, Eileen, Gail and Julie. Gail says Sally's entitled to half of the money. "I know, Gail, and I'm going to get it," says Sally. Owen, Jason and Kevin are also talking about it. Owen suggests Kevin get the money put into the baby's name. Nobody would take money off a baby.

Norris is also at the bar, trying to stay neutral while Steve tries to persuade him the winning card should be his by rights.

Izzy and Gary are in the street and Gary's annoyed she asked Owen for a loan. He can sort his own life out. Gary explains he just likes to know what's going on. They agree to go for a drink.

A bit further away, Janice and Trevor load his new car. Izzy and Gary watch as Trevor calms down Janice by kissing her. She asks if she's got time to repack – she really doesn't need five bags. Trevor says they've got an hour. "But one thing first . . ." He kisses her again.

Back in the Rovers, Sally answers Norris's questions about whether or not Kevin's offered to share any of the money. Anna and Eddie are at the bar but seem pleased about something else. Owen's holding forth to the blokes that Kevin bought the ticket with his own money and he's entitled to keep the winnings. "This is obviously far more complicated than it seems," says Norris, wringing his hands.

Gary and Izzy come in and Anna and Eddie tell them they've been to the review meeting and Faye has said she'd like to live with them. "She's going to be placed with us permanently."

Julie's at Fiz's, telling her and John about the scratch card fuss. She says John should come to the Rovers. He's got nothing to worry about. "Everyone I've spoken to has been very supportive." Fiz ventures to ask who she's been talking to. "Trusted friends and co-workers." Fiz tells her they'd rather Julie didn't discuss their private life. John says maybe he could go for one drink. Julie leaps up and says she'll go and make sure everyone knows they're coming so nobody stares.

In the pub, Gail's making a speech on Sally's behalf and Owen's speaking on Kevin's. They're strictly separated by gender, apart from Tyrone being with the women. Kevin's on the phone to the childminder and says he'll pick up baby Jack in half an hour.

Julie comes rushing in and has to calm herself down at the thought of the Stapes coming into the pub. Sean is bemused at it all.

Izzy asks what's going on with Janice and Trevor and says she's just seen them kissing and packing up the car.

Rosie comes in and the two groups call for her to join them. Sally wants her with the women. Jason wants her with him and the blokes. She goes to the women and Sally explains what's happened. Anna says Rosie has to take sides.

Janice and Trevor get into the car. Leanne approaches and Janice urges Trevor to start the car. He doesn't. Janice shouts at him then tells Leanne she's said all she's going to and nothing will change her mind. Leanne hands her something – it's the 15 Euros left over from her holiday. "Don't spend it all at once. Send us a postcard every now and again, yeah?" Leanne's crying and now Janice is. Leanne says Janice will hate it and be back in a week but Trev says this adventure's going to last a lot longer than a week – "Unless we miss that ferry." Leanne tells him to drive carefully. They get into the car just as everyone spills out of the pub and Fiz and John leave the house. "Let's show them what we really think of them," Janice tells Trev. He revs the car and they hoot past the pub, right through the big puddle outside it, drenching everyone. "Losers!" shouts Janice as they take the corner on two wheels and zoom away.

"Maybe tomorrow, eh?" suggests Fiz. She and John turn to go home.

Sally meets Kevin and asks what he's doing. He's got a kebab and now he's going to get a cab. She accuses him of enjoying this too much. Kevin tells her he's not enjoying any of it. He says the money would pay off the mortgage and give them a comfortable life. He urges her to take him back. "I wouldn't take you back if you were the richest man in the world showering me with pearls and diamonds," shouts Sally. "There is no amount of money in this whole world that would ever buy you another chance with me." She leaves him standing forlornly in the street.

The end.
Goodbye, Janice.
Margaret Carr

Written by David Lane Directed by Dominic Leclerc

Rosie, Sophie and Sian have their heads together, chattering about Kevin's newfound wealth as they come across the road towards home. Sally is taking delivery of a lovely big bouquet of lilies, pleased as punch. Tyrone's impressed. So are the girls. They all assume they're from Jeff. Her phone rings and she passes the flowers to Rosie and takes a call from her solicitor. She goes inside and Rosie thinks they need to stay on their father's good side because of the money. Sally returns, off to work and Rosie accompanies her, passing off the flowers back to Sian who badly needs a hairbrush.

Becky arrives in the back room where Max and Steve are. Becky and Steve are all smiles this Monday morning. Things are suddenly a lot less frosty this week! She suggests a day trip to the safari park, just the three of them. There's a knock at the back door and Steve goes to find Jim has arrived. He's come on Liz's behalf. Becky admits she's the cause of all the stress due to what she'd done but they can't manage with Liz underfoot trying to break them up all the time. Jim reckons they could all put it behind them but Steve isn't in any mind to. Jim says that Steve has disappointed him. Steve zings back with "Makes up for all the times you've disappointed me!" (ouch!) Jim sighs and leaves. Steve sighs, too, and goes to get ready.

In the factory, everyone is chatting about Janice leaving town with Trevor. Sally's skeptical, Julie's romantic and Sean is sentimental. Carla chivvies them along and Sean tells her about Trevor and Janice. She doesn't seem too bothered. She says she's working on a replacement worker. She checks on Frank's order, which Maria is overseeing with a long face, as per. She warns Maria not to let Frank see her moody mug.

In the cafe, Jim and Liz are hashing over the problems. Jim thinks Steve could be convinced if Becky wasn't around but Liz knows Steve won't go against his wife. She also admits that she wants to be back behind the bar. Jim has an idea and it might be a long shot. We don't hear what it is just yet.

In Platt Towers, Gail has come back from shopping. She pushes the loved up couple to the kitchen where they promised to clean up. She brought a bridal magazine for Kylie, trying to be helpful. Nick is wandering around with his phone glued to his ear. David and Kylie reject any suggestions Gail makes and Kylie laughs thinking of Gail's face when she finds out they're sharing their wedding with Graeme and Xin.

"J'Alfie" has arrived at the factory. Sally is pleased to see him and kisses him. Tyrone mentions the flowers while Kevin is looking extremely smug. Yep, you guessed it, he's the one that sent them! (no card). He points out that he knows they were her favourites and he knows Sally far better than Jeff does. Sally tells Kevin off and she and Jeff goes off arm in arm, much to Tyrone's delight.

Leanne and Cheryl are chatting about Janice in the cafe. Roy chips in that due to Jan and Trev not planning anything, they could be in for some unexpected hiccups. No romance there, Leanne laughs. Roy, of course, doesn't really get that concept. Lloyd arrives to let Cheryl know he's got a crisis to deal with. He leaves again and the women sit down at a table to have their coffees. Cheryl says she has to go see the new head teacher about Russ. Leanne and Peter have already seen the head who told them that Simon was a bit disruptive in class.

In the corner shop, Sophie is trying to stack shelves with cereal boxes and drops one. A nice looking young man helps her with a joke but she's not really very receptive to his teasing. She short changes him but thinks he's trying one on and hollers at him until she realizes it really was her mistake. But she still chews his ear off for flirting and thinking so much of himself. No apology.

In the put, Jim and Liz arrive. Tina and Betty serve them and Betty says she hopes things improve because the atmosphere is not very good lately. Jim takes Liz over to a table and Betty tells Tina she's got a suspicion something's up. These suspicions are confirmed when a man comes in and joins the McDonald's. This is Richard Willmore, an executive for Newton and Ridley. Betty gasps, and tells Tina that he's someone that Jim thumped in a jealous rage years ago! (When Liz had the pub called the Queen's)

After the break, we see the young man knocking on the door of Number 9. Sian comes along asking if he's looking for Tyrone. Yep, that's the one. She says Ty will be in the garage or the cafe, most likely. She goes off and the young man looks quite appreciatively at her retreating figure.

In the factory, Julie wonders how Fiz is coping now John's home. Frank has examined the order and has approved. He suggests Carla should go to a textile convention in London, it would do her good to make the contacts. He isn't able to go, himself. Carla considers it but Maria is starting to worry about managing the factory on her own. Frank thinks Maria will be fine and it will be a help to him if she goes. Carla says she will, reassuring Maria that Hayley will help her in the factory. Frank says he'll pop in too. That doesn't make Maria's day.

In the pub, Jim is about to describe his plan. Betty is still skeptical. Liz tells Willmore she's been away in Spain for a few months, leaving Steve and Becky to run things. Jim adds, "badly". Liz admits there's been a falling out and Jim says he thinks the brewery should buy back the pub and put Liz in as manager!

Gail takes a cup off the counter and sees two fag ends put out in it. Gross!!! She scolds Kylie who has just come downstairs with David, added with some scolding from Nick. David tells Gail they will be living there after the wedding until they have enough money to move out and finally tells Gail that they are sharing their wedding day with Graeme and Xin. Gail, as expected, isn't happy about that. She thinks a wedding day should be special for the happy couple. (why wouldn't it be, sharing it with friends? under normal circumstances, of course) David defends their decision, it's their wedding and they're looking forward to it. Criticism from his mother or from Nick goes down like a lead balloon, David throws all their failed marriages back at them. Nick thinks David should do a bit more to keep his mother happy after all the times she's supported him. David points out Gail married more than one psycho even if he objected. Why should he support her? He is getting married the way they want it.

Back to the pub, Richard wants to see the books before making any decision. Jim says they won't be a pretty sight and takes him back of the bar to go look at them. Willmore has a friendly word with Betty on the way through, remembering how good her hotpot always was. Flattering the staff, good move! Tina tries to prevent them coming back, because she thinks Steve won't want them on the premises but Liz pulls rank and Tina backs off. Betty advises Tina to just keep her head down.

Cheryl arrives at Leanne's and brags that the Head, Mr. Packham, told her that Russ could be a gifted child and should get some extra instruction. Leanne says all the right things, cheerfully congratulating her friend but her eyes are not quite so happy.

Kevin is shouting to his solicitor on the phone out in the forecourt as the young man from earlier comes along. Kevin accuses him of listening in and he rightly points out that private conversations ought to be held in private. Kevin snarls at his insolence. The young fellow asks after Tyrone. Out on a job, Kevin snaps and it'll take as long as it takes. Fine.

Steve and Becky arrive back at the pub and she chases Max into the back because he's running for the loo. Steve stops in the bar for a minute to talk to Lloyd. Lloyd is teasing Steve about putting diesel fuel in a petrol engine. Tina is about to tell Steve what was going on but he goes past into the back. Becky comes downstairs and they go into the back room where they catch Richard Willmore, Liz and Jim examining the books. What's going on????

Tvor

Well Steve and Becky are in financial trouble and Liz and Jim thought they by selling the Rovers to the brewery they would be able to clear their debts and make a fresh start. However the brewery boss is far from impressed by the figures and is not willing to invest (an investment by the way which would only work if he were willing to employ Liz McD as the landlady, surprise, surprise) in the Rovers and takes himself off - but did he actually mean what he said? The McDonalds of course raise voices and start arguing.

Jeff and Kevin exchange comments about the flowers - Kev may know that Sally loves lilies but his inside knowledge cuts no ice - Sally no longer loves him and is never having him back. Kev announces he has forgotten more about Sal than Jeff will ever know - because they have history. As Sal points out that history means that they do not have a future together.

The stranger in Coronation Street finally finds Tyrone in Roy's Rolls and identifies himself as Tommy Duckworth - Vera and Jack's grandson. Yes, Terry's son. Now with genes from the Duck egg pool I reckon we should lock up our daughters and hide our savings - but I may be wrong.

Jim McD turns the screws - unless Liz is living on the premises they are trading illegally as she is the named landlady above the door (excuse me she has been in Spain for months - how long can the named person be absent). And Steve says only if someone dobs them in. Jim will do it so he will which rather undermines Steve. Liz says she wants to get back into her pub and despite Becky's complaints Steve can see he has been dealt a valueless hand. Jim will blackmail his own son. Steve lets Liz back in the pub - but she is not to work.

Ty has to explain that Jack has joined Vera and he did let the Hortons (Tommy's other grandparents) know. Apparently Tommy fell out with them six months ago, over differences about his educational future [they thought he had one], so they rowed and Tommy walked. He has spent the last six months back packing around India Thailand and Australia. Ty wonders why he has returned - usual reason the money ran out. He had come looking for his grandfather and some work and had not expected this. Ty offers him a cold one.

Jim and Liz are out the back of the Rovers and they discuss the situation. Liz realises that the current situation is unlikely to work and so does Jim, so he does. However the brewery will not play ball and Steve is not likely to give up easily. Anyway Jim has put his thinking cap on so he has and he has come up with a stunning plan. He will make Steve an offer for the Rovers - and seeing that it is losing money it does not need to be that large and he has come into some money, so it will be straightforward - he just needs to get it sorted.

Ty and Tommy bond over a beer and Ty says that staying on the Red Rec will soon make him ill. Ty suggests he moves into the spare room until he sorts himself out.

Jim tells Liz there is nothing he wouldn't do for her. They kiss - but then she pushes him away, saying she cannot do it with so much hanging over her.

See you all again next week.
K Richard W

Steve, Becky and Max are having a jolly breakfast with much laughter when Liz comes in. The atmosphere then turns distinctly cool, and the only person to respond to her greeting is Max. Becky then asks Steve if he can mind Max this morning as she's having her roots done. Steve can't, he's seeing the bank manager. Liz pipes up that she could mind him, but they both ignore her. Steve suggests Becky takes Max with her, but he's not allowed after last time, when he opened bottles and poured their contents on the floor. Liz chuckles, but stops when they turn to glare at her. She says again that she can mind Max, but Steve says no. She tells them they're behaving like a couple of kids, and wants to know why Steve is going to see the bank manager – to beg himself out of his debts? Becky says it's ok, she'll cancel her appointment.

Tyrone comes down with a hangover and Tommy hands him a fizzy vitamin drink, and says he's making him a fry-up, it's the least he can do. Tyrone asks if he fancies a day's work at the garage valeting cars, cash in hand. Tommy asks if his boss will mind, and Tyrone tells him Kevin's his partner, not his boss. Tommy asks what the problem is between Kevin and Tyrone, they don't seem like partners. Ty says they used to best mates, and tells him to grab a brew and then he'll tell him the whole story.

At Gail's house, David kisses Kylie goodbye as she sets off to her manicure class. Gail walks into the kitchen and mutters that Kylie's finished the milk again. She then goes on a rant to David asking him what he really knows about her, why doesn't her own sister speak to her and what kind of monster lives across the road from her own little boy and doesn't even see him? "If you started thinking with your brain instead of your trousers you'd see I was right!"

Graeme is at the top of his ladder, cleaning Tina's window. She opens it and kisses him and asks if they can meet for a drink later. He reluctantly says he can't, he and Xin are going to be swotting up on their history after their run in with Weatherfield's answer to MI5 – Norris and Ken.

Nick comes marching along, talking into his mobile phone, and bumps into Audrey as she comes out of the Kabin. She asks what's wrong and he tells her his wine supplier has gone bust and he's due to be opening tomorrow. Audrey tells him she can help, her friend Mark is a wine dealer, and he owes her a favour. He hugs her and says she's a life saver.

Tracy and Betty are chatting as they get the bar ready for the day ahead. Betty wonders why Liz is back but not working. Just then Jim comes in to see Steve and goes off through to the back, and starts to tell Steve he's here to make him an offer. Steve hushes him and opens the door suddenly to find Tracy trying to eavesdrop. He orders her back behind the bar. Jim then continues, telling Steve he wants to buy the pub off him. Steve tells him it's not for sale. Jim starts to argue, and Liz says she thinks Steve should listen, but Becky sides with Steve and tells him it's not for sale. Jim points out they have debts and he wants to help. Steve however, reckons he only wants to buy the pub so he can get back with Liz. Furious, Jim marches out. Liz leaps to her feet, tells Steve he's an idiot, and rushes after him.

Kevin arrives at the garage and demands to know why Tommy is working there. Tyrone tells him they're really busy, they need a valet and besides, he's getting them extra work. Kevin doesn't care, he says they can't afford extra staff, and Tyrone can't go employing people behind his back. "Who says?" asks Ty. Tommy pipes up that Kevin has done enough behind Tyrone's back. Just then, Sally appears with a bouquet of roses. She shouts at Kevin saying she hates roses and he should get it into his head that she's not interested. She throws them to the ground and stamps on them before rushing off. Tommy and Tyrone laugh as Kevin picks up the flowers. One of them falls out and Tommy picks it up.

Jim and Liz are in the cafe, discussing the situation. Liz says she thinks they may have to accept that that particular ship has sailed now. Jim says he doesn't mind swimming after it.

In the Barlow residence, with Deirdre's help, Amy is putting the finishing touches to a mother's day card she's made. Tracy comes in just then and Amy is pleased to give it to her. Then she shows her another card she's made for Becky. Tracy is not pleased and, pointing out that Becky is not Amy's mummy, she screws it up. Amy wails and Ken and Deirdre are shocked. Tracy hastily backtracks and tries flattening out the card again, saying she'll take it to Becky herself after lunch.

Kylie goes into the cafe to join David. Xin and Graeme are in there, making notes and learning all they can about each other. Kylie drapes herself around David and tries to kiss him. He tries to shrug her off. "Not now, eh," he says. Just then Becky comes in for chips and tells her sister this is a public place and to take it somewhere else. David turns round and asks Becky if he and Kylie could take Max to the zoo at the weekend. Becky says he's busy. "Too busy to spend time with his mum?" asks Kylie. "So that's what you're calling yourself now is it?" snaps Becky. David starts to say she has no right to stop Kylie seeing Max, but Kylie gets up and walks out, telling David to leave it.

Sally meets Jeff in the pub, and tells him what a hectic day it's been at the factory. He asks if she got any deliveries and it takes her a couple of moments to realise that the flowers must've been from him. She thanks him and tells him roses are her favourites, they're now in a vase at home.

Tracy gives Becky the spoiled mother's day card, telling her that Amy screwed it up, although she did try to stop her. "She screwed it up? How thick do you think I am?" mutters Becky, looking at the card. She asks how Tracy dares to manipulate the little girl. "My daughter?" queries Tracy, "well at least I've got one which is more than you'll ever have!" Becky loses it then and pushes Tracy up against the wall raising her fist, but Sally shouts and she backs off and goes out. Tracy tells them Becky is off her rocker and she should get danger money for working there.

Steve finds Becky in the back room, lighting up a ciggie. He asks why she always rises to Tracy's bait, she makes it too easy for her. Becky says Tracy has Amy, she misses her. Steve admits he misses Amy too, and puts his arm round her, telling her it won't be for ever. Becky thinks it will, they'll never get Amy back while she has Max, and she just can't give him up, and she knows Kylie could just take him at any point. "Why would she?" asks Steve. "Because she's a spiteful little cow," says Becky, adding that their whole lives are built on sand and she can feel it slipping from under her feet. She thinks they should consider Jim's offer, it would mean they could have a fresh start somewhere else. Steve is astounded, and says she's a bigger fantasist than his dad.

Tyrone and Tommy are in the bar, and Tommy starts flirting with Tina. She's cool at first, until her pulls a rose (the stray one from Sally's bunch) out of his jacket pocket and hands it to her. "Idiot!" she mutters, but grins. When she's out of earshot, Tyrone warns Tommy to be careful, Tina's just split up with someone. "So she's on the rebound?" asks Tommy, "it's in the bag then, isn't it!"

Jeff and Sally are sitting close together and talking about a weekend away when Kevin comes in and dumps the rather tatty bouquet of roses down in front of them. "Thought you might want these back as you left them on the garage forecourt," he says. "Look, you can still see the heel mark!" As Tina looks at her rose and puts two and two together, a rather embarrassed Sally tries to explain to Jeff that she thought they were from Kevin.

Kylie puts a rather burnt looking burger and chips down in front of David and wishes him bon apetite. He tells her Becky can't stop her from seeing Max. Her attitude turns frosty and she asks what it's all about. He thinks now they're getting married they could all spend more time together. "I didn't think you were marrying me just because of Max," she says. He thinks it's odd that she doesn't want to see him, and wonders why he lives with Becky. "Full of questions tonight, aren't you?" she snaps, and wants to know where all this has come from. Just then Gail comes in and the penny drops. "You interfering old witch!" shouts Kylie, "you've been sticking your oar in, haven't you!"

Back in the pub, Tina marches over to Tommy and hands the rose back. "I don't take stolen goods!" she says. He tells her it's the thought that counts, and flirts some more, eventually asking if she'll come round to their place after work to watch a dvd with him, Tyrone and Kirk. "Maybe," she shrugs.

Nick and Audrey are sitting with Mark, going through an order for wine. Just then Claudia comes in and looks shocked to see him. Audrey urges her to join them, and Nick goes off to get her a drink. Mark tells Claudia he's missed her, and walked past her salon several times just for a glimpse of her. "I bet you have," she says, but he then tells her everything she's been wearing every day, and she seems pleased.

Back at the Platt's, Gail tells Kylie she won't apologise, her son has every right to know what he's marrying and if Kylie's coming into the family then Gail has the right to know as well. "Fine," says Kylie, and then proceeds to give Gail a potted history of her life, involving a drunk mother and a father who was handy with his fists, only he was closer to Becky than her. "Really, really close....want me to spell it out?" she says. Becky was supposed to look out for her, but one day when she was eight, Kylie woke to find Becky had gone, had left without a note or a phone call. "She knew what would happen," sniffs Kylie, "and it did." When she got pregnant they threw her out, and she was on the streets. Max was taken off her and she tried not to care. "Where was Becky then? Where was my family? Excuse me if bride side's a bit empty!" She runs off upstairs. "Happy now?" says David to Gail.

The three lads and Tina are watching the film. Tommy tries to put his arm along the back of the sofa behind Tina, but she pushes it away.

Liz, Steve and Becky are in the living room at the pub. Becky is playing a video game and then Liz goes off to bed. When they're on their own, Steve asks Becky if she was serious about them leaving. "Deadly," she says. He points out that Tracy wouldn't let them take Amy and social services wouldn't let them take Max. "They would if they didn't know," mutters Becky. "Are you saying snatch the children and do a runner?" asks Steve. Becky confirms that she is. "Think about it," she says, telling him they could take the money from the sale and start a new life far, far away with no debts, no Tracy, no Kylie. Just them and their kiddies and a wad of cash.

Anne Logan

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Updates written by K Richard Whitbread, Martin Rosen, Ann Logan, Margaret Carr, Stella McLoughlin, Tvor.

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