Written by Ellen Taylor Directed by Tim Finn

Kirsty can't get through to her mother and is worried. Tyrone gives her a cold shoulder. He's staying home from work because he's got a headache after being bashed with a baby rattle the night before. He decides to take the baby for a walk. He's short with Kirsty as he gets Ruby ready to go.

Maria and Jason, Paul, Marcus and Aiden are gathered around a table in the cafe. Maria is distracted and doesn't join in the conversation about what to do that evening. Paul suggests a meal and then says he's planning a surprise party for Eileen on Friday. Maria's distraction is starting to be noticed, by Marcus at least. Mary arrives in the cafe with Norris who's fractious that his usual table is occupied. Mary is in a very good mood. Hayley mentions they're quite busy while Sylvia is in California.

Outside, Tyrone is wheeling the pram and passes Tommy and Tyrone and can't avoid them. Harsh words are thrown. Nick jogs by and sees David, Kylie and Max heading to school. Max has his football with him. Nick mentions the Junior trials next week, and because Simon is going out for it, Kylie declares Max is too. Nick suggests a park footie match and runs off. Kylie pulls Max's football boots out of his backpack, moaning about their disgraceful shape but David reminds her they can't afford new boots. Argument ensues.

Lloyd is hungover. Eileen wonders if Paul has forgotten about her birthday. Lloyd says he had a good time with Jenna once they were over the first hump. Jenna shows up and she's hungover too. She invites Lloyd to lunch, not at a pub as she'll be in the area. He offers her lunch in his flat and hands her the head remedy he was mixing.

Norris sees Tyrone's bruises and remembers the fracas in the street with Kirsty's dad. Mary opens her post and discovers she's a winner in another competition, this one quite a good prize too, from a magazine. A caption of a photo of two baby elephants swimming, with Mary's winning line of "Thank goodness we brought our trunks!" Two transatlantic flights and a lifetime subscription is what she's won. Hayley is thrilled for her. Norris is more interested in the "two" free flights and immediately he's not so surly anymore.

Fiz arrives on the cake run and sees a glum looking Tyrone. She finds out that Kirsty caused the bruise on his face. He explains what happened. He's at the end of his rope. She urges him gently to finish with Kirsty but he worries about Ruby. He doesn't think she'd hurt Ruby but Fiz rightly points out that it's bad for Ruby to be around all that stress and upset. Fiz can see the relationship is destroying Tyrone.

In the salon, Maria is walking around deep in thought as she brings tea for her clients. Rita arrives to see if she can be fit in. David is dismayed to find that Maria has to leave later, making an excuse about picking Liam up. Rita strops off to Claudia's instead and David complains because Maria forgot to tell David earlier.

Tyrone arrives back. Kirsty isn't home but comes in the door behind him. She was out clearing her head too. She seems purposeful. Tyrone tells her they need to talk. Kirsty sees to the baby first while apologizing. Tyrone tells her they have to split up and she's got to move out. Oh dear. After the break, Kirsty has finished changing the baby. She insists Tyrone isn't serious. He is. He wants her to go but she's not taking Ruby. That makes Kirsty realize he does mean what he says. Apologies pour out of her. Promises to change. She begs him, she cajoles. He tries to hold his ground. He admits he loves her but it's not enough.

Lloyd welcomes Jenna to his flat. He turns on the kettle and offers her the takeaway menus. She'd rather just have a sandwich. All he's got in is cheese and pickle but she's quite happy with that. They realize they have the same favourites!

David sees a client out and then chides Maria for not doing a very good job. Jason lopes in to have a word with Maria. He wonders if he can start moving his stuff into the flat. She'd rather it all be done at once. He offers to take her to lunch but she says she's got to go out and gives him the brush off as she leaves. Jason is confused.

Kirsty realizes that she's turning into her father. She remembers how it was living with her father. How her mother was too scared to leave and how she hated him. She hates seeing that look of fear in Tyrone's eyes. He thinks she needs to see a councilor but he won't let her stay even if she does.

Mary is in the Kabin helping out. Norris is sucking up with cups of tea and Ferrerro Rochers. She can see right through him. Rita returns from having her hair done at Claudia's and is not impressed. Mary suggests a week holiday somewhere warm, like Florida. You can tell she's winding Norris up and when Rita finds out about the competition Mary's won and how she hasn't decided who to give the other ticket to, she realizes exactly what Norris is up to, too. Norris huffs. Mary and Rita grin at each other.

Jenna is perusing Lloyd's record collection, loving the retro stuff. Ouch. He brings out some old photos and they're obviously all Craig Charles. Ace stuff! One photo shows him about 20 years old, with a square cut hair do and long sideburns! He tells her he met his mum and dad while out dancing. She asks to keep the photo but just then the door rings and it's Mandy. Jenna doesn't want her mother to find her there so hides in the bedroom, making Lloyd promise not to tell Mandy she's there.

David has a sandwich and juice ready for Max. Nick comes in with his washing for Gail to do. Max tells Uncle Nick about scoring three goals and asks for new boots. David again says they can't afford it. Nick looks thoughtful.

Kirsty is cuddling the baby. Tyrone comes back downstairs. Kirsty is near tears. He says he's going to work and they can discuss all the details later. He's made his mind up. She cries, and wants them to make it work. Finally she realizes she can't make him change his mind. She says she'll go but Ruby comes with her and he can't do anything about it. Ruby is not his baby, not legally. Seems she took the precaution of registering the birth and leaving off the father's name. In the eyes of the law, since they aren't married, he has no legal rights at all as Ruby's dad. That's what we call a pre-emptive strike, ladies and gentlemen! Kirsty looks triumphant. Tyrone looks shocked.

Mandy is fretting about Jenna. She hasn't been able to get hold of her and is getting worried. She's upset that Jenna's giving her the silent treatment. She did what she thought she had to and doesn't deserve this. Lloyd does agree. Presumably Jenna is hearing all this from the bedroom. He lies that he's not heard from Jenna. Mandy reckons maybe she should have been honest all along. She gets ready to go and spies Jenna's jacket and realizes her daughter is there. Jenna comes out from the bedroom, saying she'd told Lloyd to lie.

Maria is sobbing in the flat when Marcus comes in and catches her. He persuades her to tell him what's wrong and is floored when she says she found a lump in her breast last week. She has to go to a clinic that afternoon. He insists he's going with her, no excuses. She's scared and he holds her tight.

Tyrone is angry, shocked and appalled. She calls it insurance. She admits he is her father and just wants them to be a family. He doesn't see how that will work. She threatens that he'll never see Ruby again if he throws her out. He turns to see the baby sleeping in her carrier.

Tvor

Written by Jayne Hollinson and directed by Alan Grint

Mandy is angry that Jenna has been seeing Lloyd, Jenna is angry with her mum for lying to her and Lloyd is playing piggy in the middle. But when he tries to intervene, Jenna tells him not to try acting like her dad because he hasn't earned it yet and then she storms out of his flat.

Over at Ty's he's still trying to digest the news that Kirsty's left his name off the birth certificate. She offers to leave but then adds a proviso: if she goes she's taking Ruby with her. Ty protests that she can't force him to stay with her but Kirsty says she's not forcing him to do anything. Ty needs to clear his head and says he's going for a walk but there's no way Kirsty will let him take the baby with him, in case he runs off with her. As he stalks out she calls after him that she's doing this for them and that she loves him. If you ask me, she's got a funny way of showing it.

Things are no more cheerful over at Maria's where she's telling Marcus about her visit to Dr. Carter. She says he told her the lump she found is probably benign and nothing to worry about but Maria is naturally fearing the worst. Marcus is a bit taken aback when he finds out Maria hasn't said anything to Jason but she seems reluctant to talk to him and points out they've only been going out five minutes. She admits she wasn't even going to tell Marcus until he found out. Marcus gently points out it's time they were leaving for her hospital appointment. Maria says he doesn't have to go with her but Marcus isn't about to leave her to go through this on her own.

Back at Lloyd's he and Mandy are arguing about Jenna. Mandy tells him that Jenna was only seeing him to get back at her but then she realises that Lloyd genuinely cares about his newly-discovered daughter and apologises for saying such hurtful things. She tells Lloyd that Jenna may be pig-headed but she's totally honest. She says that she's glad that things are working out between them but then starts to cry as she says that she wishes that it didn't mean she has to lose her. Lloyd offers to back off a bit, Mandy tells him it's a bit late for that and Lloyd apologises once more saying that everything he does just seems to make things worse. Mandy starts to cry again and says that there's nothing either of them can do now and then she leaves.

Out in the street Fiz spots Ty looking sad and lonely on a bench and rushes over to find out what's happened. "I'm gonna lose Ruby," he tells Fiz, looking utterly distraught.

In the Kabin, Norris is doing his best to pump Mary for information about where she might go with her prize airline tickets or, more to the point, who she's planning on taking with her. He doesn't take kindly to being interrupted in his mission by Roy and Hayley who have come in to buy a card for Roy's mother. Roy helpfully suggests Mary could always go to Palm Springs in California and Hayley adds that it's where Silvia is at the moment and that she thinks Roy's actually missing her. As they leave, Hayley tells Mary that wherever she decides to go, she hopes she has a lovely time and Mary observes very pointedly to Norris how kind and generous Roy and Hayley are.

Ty and Fiz have moved to the café where he's told her all about Kirsty's devious trick with the birth certificate. Fiz is horrified and takes it upon herself to call the solicitor who helped her with her court case to see if he can give them some advice.

At the hospital, Marcus is doing her best to keep Maria distracted while she waits nervously for her appointment. She seems grateful for his support and when she finally gets called in, asks him to go with her.

Back in the café Fiz is coming off the phone from her solicitor but it's not good news. She tells Ty that Kirsty's right - without his name on the birth certificate he doesn't have a leg to stand on. She tells him that he can apply for something called "parental rights" but it still won't get him officially registered as the father. He could also apply for a "declaration of parentage" and, if the court grants that, he could get his name on a new certificate. Ty brightens up considerably at this news until Fiz explains that in order to do that he'd have to get a DNA test done and this would require Kirsty's permission. Realising the implications Ty tells Fiz that if Kirsty gets wind of what he's up to she'll be on the next plane out of there and he'll never see Ruby again.

We return to Maria's appointment at the hospital where the consultant is confirming that she does have a small lump and that she was right to do something about it. The plan is for her to have an ultrasound scan which they can do straight away. Maria takes this to mean that she definitely has cancer but the doctor tells her that in the vast majority of cases that isn't so. She's told that she'll have the results of the scan by the end of the day and we then see of close up shot of Marcus taking hold of Maria's hand and giving it a reassuring squeeze.

Ty has returned home where Kirsty is feeding the baby. He tells her that he's decided that she can stay and Kirsty replies that it's the right decision and he won't regret it. Ty points out she didn't give him much option. She tells him that she'll change her ways but Ty finds that hard to believe and says that he's sick of being her punch bag. Kirsty says she doesn't mean to do it but she gets stir crazy being at home with Ruby all day and she feels like she's not important any more, then Ty comes home and she takes it out on him. So Ty has a suggestion to make: what if she goes back to work and he stays home to look after the baby?

Over at the cab office, Eileen asks Lloyd how his lunch with Jenna went and he explains it was all going fine until Mandy turned up. He says he's beginning to regret ever bumping into her but Eileen doesn't believe that for one moment and points out he would never have found out he had a daughter if he hadn't. Lloyd agrees but says he wish it didn't come with all this stress. Eileen gives a hollow laugh and says welcome to family life. She says if he wants to be a dad then he's got to start acting like one. Lloyd asks her how and, rather less than helpfully, Eileen says she's a mum, not a dad but she's sure he'll work something out.

Back at Kirsty and TY's they're discussing his idea about becoming a house-husband. Kirsty suggests maybe they could take it in turns but Ty doesn't think that would work. She's worried she'll miss Ruby but Ty points out she'll see her in the evening and, as he tells Kirsty, they have to do something to change the situation so eventually, with some reluctance, she agrees to give it a go.

Over at the salon, David is in the middle of grumbling to Kylie about the fact that Maria hasn't come in to work when Nick comes in bearing a gift of a new pair of football boots for Max. "Oh, you shouldn't have!" declares, Kylie, looking delighted. "No, you shouldn't have," scowls David looking none too pleased.

At the hospital Maria and Marcus are pacing the corridor while they wait for her results. Finally a nurse calls her in.

We move to the factory where Kirsty has called in to let everyone know she's returning to work. Kirk's about the only one who seems pleased and Fiz looks positively stony faced when Kirsty explains that they've decided to do things the modern way and that Ty's going to become a stay-at-home dad.

Returning to the hospital Maria is receiving the rather worrying news that the results of her tests were inconclusive. They didn't match up with the scan and so they're going to perform a core biopsy. Marcus's look of concern matches Maria's.

In the Rovers, Aiden, Eileen and Jason are standing at the bar when Jason tells his Mum that Maria doesn't want him moving in his stuff yet. He's perplexed but reassures Eileen that everything's O.K. between them. Just as Aiden tells them he's waiting for Marcus to take him into town to try out a new Bistro, he gets a text from him, cancelling their date. There's only one thing for it: he asks Jason if he'd like to join him instead. It's a bit too much for macho-builder-man who hastily declines so Eileen jumps at the chance of a night out, leaving Sean wondering what's going on.

On the other side of the pub, David's moping into his beer when Nick comes in to apologise to him for buying the football boots for Max. David is upset that he's not able to buy the things Max needs and suggests next time Nick wants to give his nephew a treat he chooses something less flashy, like a bag of sweets.

Over at the garage, Ty has gone to break the news to Kevin about his plans for becoming a house husband. Kevin can't believe what he's hearing but Ty points out that loads of blokes do it and he's going to take a year off. He tells Kevin he can stop paying him and use the money to hire another mechanic; all Ty wants is his usual share of the profits. Kevin is really annoyed and can't understand why Ty would possibly want to do it since he earns loads more than Kirsty but Ty makes it quite clear his mind is made up and it's the end of the discussion.

Mary and Norris arrive at the Rovers. He's still bugging her about what she's planning to do with her prize and is thrilled when she tells him that if she took anyone with her at all it would be Norris. He looks a touch disappointed when she says she thinks California would be a good choice of destination but admits that it's her prize to do with as she chooses. Which is exactly what she does. While Norris watches open-mouthed Mary hurries over to Roy and Hayley to give them some wonderful news: she's decided to give them her prize so that they can fly to Palm Springs to surprise Roy's mother for her birthday. At first they don't want to accept but Mary insists she can't cope with flying and tells them she once caused a plane to make an emergency landing on account of her screams. Norris takes her to one side as he knows she's made this story up but Mary threatens him with all sorts if he dares to let on. She tells him that Roy and Hayley are the kindest people she knows, they've been wonderful to her and she wants to do this for them.

Maria and Marcus return from the hospital. If Maria wasn't feeling ill beforehand she almost certainly is now as they're met with the sight of Kirk and Beth getting frisky on the sofa. Kirk is aware that something's up but Marcus says Maria's just tired after a long day. Showing some unusual tact, Kirk suggests he and Beth should go to the Rovers and leave them to it. As soon as they're gone, Maria slumps down on the sofa and Marcus joins her. She's really upset and is convinced she has cancer. Marcus puts a reassuring arm around her and says that she doesn't yet know that and she could be fine. Keeping his arm around Maria he tells her that, whatever happens, he'll be there all the way for her.

Out in the street, seeing Kirsty leaving the house and Ty standing on the doorstep, Fiz takes the opportunity to go over and speak to him. She can see that he's decided to let Kirsty stay but he points out angrily that he has no option. Fiz tells him he's crazy and says he might still have his daughter but at what cost? Fiz is really upset and tells Ty that Kirsty has taken everything away from him: first his friends, then his dignity and now his freedom. He says he has to do this to protect Ruby but Fiz asks how he's going to protect her if he ends up in hospital. Ty shouts back that he's made his decision and tells her to back off.

Karen

It's early morning and Maria's worried about the second biopsy. Marcus is sure she's going to be ok.

Over at Tyrone's, Kirsty asks Tyrone if he's still happy for her to go to work while he looks after Ruby. He tells her he is, they're going to have a great day. She tells him she loves him, and he says that they (ie he and Ruby) love her too.

It's breakfast time at Eileen's, and Jason reminds his mum that he's going to be at Maria's flat from now on. Just then Kirk arrives with some cardboard boxes for Jason to move his stuff with. He shakes Jason's hand and welcomes him to the family, adding that he hopes he lasts longer than the other brothers in law that he's had. There's another knock on the door, this time it's Julie, all excited because today is the day she and Brian are moving into Jason's flat. "Only it won't be Jason's flat any more, it'll be ours!" she beams. Jason tells her she can have the keys at dinnertime, and she rushes off again, still really excited.

Marcus asks Maria if she'd like him to drop Liam off to nursery, which she gratefully accepts. She tells him she's not going in to work, all she can think is that she's got cancer and she's going to die. He tells her that this time is the worst, not knowing, but tomorrow it will all be over when she's seen the doctor. "All over or just starting," says Maria. He tells her that even if it is cancer, she's caught it early and she'll get the best treatment, she'll be fine. "Look at Sally Webster," he says. Maria thinks as Sally is fine it makes her chances slimmer. Marcus says he doesn't think it works like that. He offers to tell them downstairs in the salon that she won't be in, then puts his arm round her and kisses her head. "That's what we're here for, to help you get through this."

Mandy comes into the taxi office with a suitcase, she's going back to Nottingham, she has no reason to stay now her daughter isn't speaking to her. Lloyd talks her into going to the cafe with him for coffee.

Marcus goes into the salon and tells them Maria won't be in. Jason comes in then, looking for Maria so that he can move his stuff in. He's flummoxed when he learns that she's ill, but Marcus says he'll get her to phone him. Kylie thinks it's all very convenient, Maria being off work the day her boyfriend moves in.

In the cafe, Roy is worrying about leaving Anna to run the cafe on her own. Mary comes in then and says she's going to help. She tells Roy and Hayley she'll consider herself a permanent member of staff until they get back and she shoos them off to do their packing.

Lloyd suggests to Mandy that she comes to stay with him for a few days so she can have a chance to sort things out with Jenna.

In the factory, Kirsty tells them all that it was Tyrone's idea to stay at home to look after Ruby. Fiz suddenly says she's just remembered something and rushes out.

Lloyd takes Mandy back to the taxi office and tells Eileen he now has a lodger. He takes Mandy's case upstairs to the flat.

Fiz knocks on Tyrone's kitchen door. She's come to see how he's doing. He says he's fine. Fiz tells him Kirsty is enjoying being the centre of attention, and telling everyone it was his idea. He says that's true. Fiz asks if he would still be doing it if he was with someone who didn't behave like Kirsty. Ty mumbles that he doesn't know, he can't say what would happen, but he tells her that he doesn't want Kirsty to know that she has been round, she wouldn't like it. Fiz tells him he's turning into Kirsty's slave and he must leave her. Ty gets cross then, and says he's had enough and tells her to go. "Why can't you face the truth?" asks Fiz. "Just get out!" snaps Tyrone.

Marcus is talking to Maria about Jason. She says she didn't have space in her head to remember he was moving in. Marcus suggests she phone him. "And say what?" asks Maria, horrified. "Er...hi Jason, what time are you coming round?" says Marcus. No, Maria is worried about telling him she might have cancer. Marcus says she doesn't have to say anything, she might not have cancer. "What? Just let him move in and then tell him afterwards?" says Maria. Marcus tells her she must tell him something, she mustn't treat him like he doesn't matter.

The factory workers, Kirsty included, are in the Rovers. Fiz wonders if Kirsty should be at home helping Tyrone look after her baby. Kirsty wants to know who she thinks she is, telling her what to do. Sean tries desperately to keep the peace, and proposes a toast to little baby Ruby as Fiz and Kirsty scowl at each other across the table.

Maria goes to see Jason and blurts out that she might have cancer. She explains that she's had a biopsy and is waiting for the results. He looks stunned.

Roy and Hayley are all ready to head off to the airport. They thank Mary who assures them that everything will be fine.

Jenna arrives at the taxi office and, before Eileen can stop her, goes off up to the flat to look for Lloyd.

In the salon, Nick suggests they all go on a family outing. Kylie says that the local park is all they could afford. (Why? She and David are both earning and living in Gail's house, so the bills can't be that big.) Nick thinks the local park will be fine, and off he goes. When they're on their own, David tells Kylie not to keep broadcasting the fact that they don't have any money.

Jenna gets a shock when she sees her mother in Lloyd's flat, but Lloyd thinks it's good that the three of them are all together.

Jason is being very sympathetic to Maria, and is fine when she asks if he can just put off moving in for the time being. He says he'll do whatever she wants. He offers to go with her to get her results, but, hesitating, she tells him that Marcus is going with her because he's medical and will be able to explain everything. Jason says he'll come as well, but Maria makes it clear that she only wants Marcus. Jason says that's fine too, and hugs her, but looks a little crestfallen.

Up in Lloyd's flat, Jenna is furious when she hears that Mandy is staying there. "So my dad's dead and you move in with your lover?" She won't listen when they tell her she's only staying there so that she and Mandy can talk. She tells them they're welcome to each other and storms out.

Kirsty goes home and picks up Ruby for a cuddle. She tells Tyrone she got a slagging off from Fiz. Tyrone says she was probably joking. Kirsty says she wasn't laughing, and neither will Fiz be if she tries it on again.

Sean catches up to Fiz in the Street and wants to know why she had a go at Kirsty for going back to work and leaving Tyrone at home with Ruby. Fiz tells him there are things he doesn't know about. He says he just wants to understand, but Fiz tells him he can't, and goes in to her house and slams the door.

Eileen goes home and finds Jason still at home. He explains about Maria's lump and how she gets the results tomorrow. Eileen is shocked and asks if he's going with her. He tells her that Marcus is going with her. "Well, he is medical," says Eileen.

Meanwhile, Maria is in her flat, talking to Marcus about how lovely Jason was. She says how he offered to go to the hospital with her, but she only wants Marcus. She says she knows she should want Jason there, but she doesn't. "Maybe I don't want him moving in either. Maybe we shouldn't be together at all."

Anne Logan

Maria and Marcus are breakfasting and discussing the biopsy results, which Maria will get today. She's certain it won't be good news. David arrives and he's in a real strop. Maria doesn't look ill. She's just skiving, he's sure. Maria flees to the bedroom and Marcus shouts at David until he leaves.

Anna arrives at work to find Mary already there and chopping onions. Spanish onions. It seems she has plans to open the cafe tonight for a special Spanish theme night - Cafe Ole [I'm deliberately not putting on the Es because for some folk that just comes out as a garbled code in their e-mail]. Yes, Catalonia's coming to Weatherfield. I suppose that's much better than catatonia. Anna thinks it will be a disaster and Roy would hate it. Mary thinks Roy and Haley would love it.

Jason has a bunch of flowers but they're for Maria, not for Eileen's birthday. Oh no, he's forgotten. Or has he? Once Eileen's left the room, he and Paul discuss the plan for a surprise party. Paul tells Jason he'd better move all his boxes of belongings. Jason plans to shift them into Sean's room in the meantime.

Kirsty and Tyrone are also eating breakfast (they're all at it!). Tyrone has prepared breakfast for her because that's what househusbands do. They make arrangements to take Ruby for a walk at lunchtime.

Lloyd and Mandy discuss her plan to contact Jenna. Mandy wants to put everything right. Lloyd tells her she's welcome to stay at the flat for as long as she needs to.

Tyrone and Kirsty rendezvous outside the factory for the walk. Kevin sees Tyrone and comes over to shout at him about finding a replacement mechanic. "I'm not running this garage on my own. Understand?"

As Maria and Marcus head for a taxi, Jason trots up with the bunch of flowers, then says he'll look after them till she gets back. She promises to tell him the biopsy result as soon as she finds out. "I won't stop thinking about you." He makes Marcus promise to look after Maria. As the taxi drives off, David comes up to shout again that there doesn't seem to be anything wrong with Maria. This time it's Jason who shouts at him.

Anna's still worried about the Spanish night and seeks Norris's advice. Does he think Mary can manage something like this? Norris believes that Mary is a force to be reckoned with no matter what she decides to do. Mary arrives in from leafletting the neighbourhood and Norris says he now knows why she encouraged Roy and Hayley to go away - she wanted to run her own empire. Norris says he won't be coming - he's got a pre-arranged booking at the bistro to have a meal with Rita, Dennis and Emily. That fixed appointment proves to be pretty flexible when Mary offers him a ten per cent discount and a half carafe of wine. Norris bargains it up to a whole carafe and the deal is done.

Sean arrives home with party supplies, handing the receipt to Paul - one hundred and twenty pounds! After choking a bit, Paul discusses what still needs to be done, including moving Jason's boxes. Sean tells Paul he'll have to take them upstairs, and gives him a lot more orders at the same time. Sean can't possibly do it. He's got to finish his vanilla slice [custard square to you Kiwis] and get back to work.

Ken and Wendy arrive at the school for a board meeting. Brian tells Ken he hopes he'll have Ken's support in the meeting.

Marcus and Maria are at the hospital. She asks him to go into the doctor's office with her and is called through.

The doctor tells Maria the lump was a benign cyst and there's nothing to worry about. Maria's so relieved she bursts into tears. The doctor assumes they are a couple and tells them they can now get on with their life together.

Lloyd arrives home to find Mandy there. She wasn't able to see Jenna and now can't decide whether to go back to Nottingham before making up with her daughter. Lloyd invites her to take her mind off it by coming to Eileen's party but Mandy refuses. So he invites her out for a meal. "Let me make it up to you for everything I have put you through." Mandy agrees.

Apparently Bessie Street is the only school in the entire country which has a budget surplus. Brian wants to spend it on a new computer centre but Wendy puts forward an alternative plan - to spend the money updating the library. The vote is drawn and Ken uses his casting vote to support Wendy's idea. Brian is most annoyed.

Tyrone goes to see Kevin to show him the draft of the ad he's putting in the paper. Kev thinks it's fine but takes the chance to snap at Tyrone again. Ty stands his ground and tells him the arrangement he and Kirsty have come to suits them. Kevin should keep his opinions to himself, especially in front of Kirsty.

At the bistro, Nick and Gail are a little puzzled by all the cancellations they've had for tonight. Norris comes in to cancel his own reservation and lets them know why. They'll have to drop their prices if they're to compete with Mary.

Marcus and Maria have a celebratory drink (of fizz that was destined for Eileen). The discuss getting ready for the party. Maria has to contact Jason and Marcus has to meet Aiden.

Jason's getting quite anxious, checking his phone every five minutes, but still nothing has come from Maria. He refuses to tell Sean and Paul why he's uptight.

Mary's in her flamenco costume when Nick and Gail arrive at the cafe. "Have you come to book a table?" she asks. Nick explains that he and Roy have an agreement that the cafe won't open in the evening and the bistro won't open in the mornings. Mary says that Roy isn't there and she's in charge. Before she can say anything stupid, Anna says it's only for one evening. That calms down Nick and little bit.

Brian's very disappointed in Ken. As they stack chairs, Ken says he thought Wendy put forward a stronger case. Brian leaves the room and Wendy comes in. With Brian earwigging at the internal window, she invited Ken for a drink.

The guests are gathering for Eileen's party. Aiden arrives, complaining that he can't find Marcus. Sean gets a text message to say Eileen and Paul are on their way and everyone hides. "Surprise!" There are hugs and kisses all round.

Maria's changed and Marcus admires her. Maria says he's one of the most important people in her life. Marcus feels the same way about her. They decide they'd better get off to the party but first, a hug. The hug somehow turns into kissing. More-than-just-friends-type kissing!

The end of part one.
Margaret Carr

Written by: Jonathan Harvey
Directed by: Alan Grint

We open with Marcus and Maria kissing the face off each other, and the door buzzer sounds which brings them back to their senses, and they break apart. It's Jason, so Maria tells him over the intercom to come up. Marcus is standing there looking totally confused, and apologises to Maria, telling her he doesn't know what happened there. Maria is just as confused and flustered, telling him also that she is sorry. Jason comes in, and Maria immediately paints a smile of greeting on her face. He sees the champagne on the table and assumes it's good news. Maria tells him it is, and he throws his arms around her, saying how thrilled he is. Marcus is still standing there in shock with his mouth open. It's a good job our Jason is a bit on the thick side though, because he doesn't notice that Marcus is behaving oddly at all. He asks if they are coming to his Mum's, and Maria asks him to go on, and they will catch him up, as she wants to fix her hair. Jason says to Marcus "Do you know how many hours I've waited while she fixes her hair? You are so lucky you are into blokes". Marcus smiles weakly.

Jason leaves, and they turn to each other, still in shock and Marcus asks her "What just happened there?"

Spanish night is in full swing inside Roy's Rolls. They are very busy, and Mary and Anna are rushed off their feet, not that Mary minds, she is thrilled that her idea is so successful. In comes Rita, Dennis, Emily and Norris. Mary, all dressed up as a Spanish flamenco dancer, shows them to their table with a flourish. Norris is no doubt proud of Mary, as he remarks to Rita that Roy would be well impressed with the success of his business. I, on the other hand am not so sure about that! Mary hands them menus, and tells them she will be back to take their order shortly as she first has to deal with a gazpacho health & safety issue in the kitchen.

We flip back to Marcus and Maria, and they are still busy apologising to each other, and are both trying to rationalise why it happened. They decide in the end that it was just a weird day, that he is still into blokes, and so is she - straight ones that is, and that it will never happen again.

The guests at Eileen's party are in full swing now, Kirk is telling Beth that he doesn't want to dance any more, but she persuades him otherwise by grabbing his nether regions. Julie interrupts them, and tells Beth that when she and Kirk were together, he had two left feet. Beth glares at her, and tells her that he has changed a lot since he was with her - "alright?" Julie takes the hint and leaves. Beth tells Kirk that she doesn't want her thinking she has got her sloppy seconds. We now eavesdrop on a conversation between Julie, Eileen and Paul, and glean that Julie's present to Eileen was a book all about sisters, and Eileen lets Julie smell the perfume Paul gave her. She has a sniff and gushes that it's very citrusy, and that she loves citrus. Paul remarks that she could always suck a lemon.

The next conversation we eavesdrop on is between Sean and Aiden, with both trying to be pleasant through gritted teeth. Sean offers him nibbles, which he declines. He then asks after Marcus, and is told that he hasn't arrived yet. Sean tells him that he is sure he will show up, but punctuality was never his strong point.

We leave the party, and go to another celebration. This time it is a table for two, and sat at it are Ken and Wendy P. (yes I know, but I just can't be bothered to keep looking up the spelling of her name!). She is thanking him for supporting her at the meeting, but Ken assures her he only did it because her suggestion was the better one. She asks if he thinks that a peeved Brian might tell Deirdre how he (Ken) is her number one fan. Ken looks horrified, and replies that he sincerely hopes not. Wendy asks him if he has told Deirdre yet that they are now serving on the board together, and Ken admits that he has been putting that little revelation off.

Wendy then pulls out a little gift, telling him that it is for his birthday tomorrow, and not to open it until then. Ken is touched, and surprised that she would remember, and she assures him she only remembers because it is exactly two weeks after hers, and besides, she had bought him this gift while they were together, and didn't get the chance to give it to him at the time. Ken is obviously moved that she saved it all those years for him.

He apologises to her for letting her down so badly back then. She tells him it's all water under the bridge now, that they have both moved on with their lives since then. He squeezes her arm and thanks her. (Oh dear, methinks his brain is slipping back down into his trousers once again!)

Kirsty walks into No. 9 to a home cooked meal on the table. She tastes it and tells him it's lovely, however, two minutes later she decides it needs a couple of minutes in the microwave, which brings her an apology from Tyrone. They discuss the meeting with Kevin earlier, and she tells him he shouldn't back down. Ty assures her he is not going to, that he has already put an ad in the Gazette for a mechanic. She tells him that is good, but next minute she is asking him if the arrangement is a good idea, as she doesn't want him falling out with Kevin. He assures her it is, and that is the way it's going to be. So now she is only doing what Tyrone wants. See the psychology there?

Back at the party, Eileen and Paul are reminiscing back to a year ago, and she is remarking that if it hadn't been for her birthday back then, they would never have met. Paul suggests they go back on the factory roof and stick her head in the railings for old time's sake. She murmurs that a lot has happened since then, and he agrees, they hold each other tight.

Marcus and Maria arrive, and mingle with the guests. Marcus kisses Aiden and apologises for having his phone turned off. He tells him he will just get a drink and explain where he has been. As he moves across the room, he says "Hi" to Sean, who also leans in for a kiss, but Marcus swerves him, leaving him kissing the air.

Julie tells Eileen she has to go, because Brian has had a pig of a day and needs to 'offload'. Eileen tells her that's quite alright, and as she leaves, she and Paul have a chuckle about Brian having to 'offload'.

Lloyd and Mandy are in the Rovers, and he asks how she is feeling. She tells him that she feels she has been too hard on Jenna, but Lloyd suggests that perhaps Jenna has been too hard on her. He asks her where she would like to go to eat, and it is decided that they will go for a curry, and he will go to Eileen's party later.

Nick is taking yet another cancellation in the Bistro, and Gail telling him that the cafe is doing a roaring trade does not improve his mood one bit. They decide to head down there to check things out for themselves. They might as well, the Bistro is completely empty.

Maria is feeling a little tipsy back at Eileen's, and Jason assures her it's fine, because she has a lot to celebrate. Jason is busy talking about possibly moving in now she has had the all clear, but Maria's eyes keep straying over to Marcus, who is having the same problem concentrating on what Aiden is talking about too, as he keeps finding himself looking over at Maria as well. In desperation, she suggests to Jason that he move in tonight. He is over the moon, and hugs her, but she looks over his shoulder and her eyes are met by some belonging to Marcus. Is he jealous? I think he just might be.

After the break we are back in Roy's Rolls, and they are eating paella. Nick and Gail arrive, and are totally shocked to see how many paying customers are there. Gail asks Nick if they are allowed to sell booze, and Nick replies that they are indeed if they bring their own. Hmmm I could be wrong, but I don't think that is allowed in Canada on unlicensed premises. Nick has seen enough and tells Gail they are leaving.

The party is still swinging over in No. 11, and Marcus is suggesting to Aiden that they leave and go on to the Village. Aiden agrees, but asks if Marcus wants to leave because Sean is there. Marcus had obviously not thought of that excuse, but grasps at it, and tells him it is.

Eileen has a word with Maria, asking her if she is sure she wants Jason to move in, because she doesn't want to see him back home in five minutes with a broken heart. Maria assures her she is not going to hurt him, and Paul interjects that that is good, because Eileen has loads of plans for Jason's bedroom.

Over at the bar in the Rovers, Deirdre is complaining mildly that Ken hasn't shown up yet, because she was planning to make him a special pre-birthday tea. Tina asks what she is making, and is told it's egg and chips. Instead of laughing at Deirdre's idea of a culinary delight, Tina tells her she loves egg and chips, and is getting hungry just thinking about it. (Well, I guess Ken will be grateful for anything that's not stuffed marrow.)

Brian and Julie arrive, and Deirdre tackles Brian about why their Governors' Meeting has gone on for this long. Brian looks confused and asks what she is on about. On being reminded, Julie points out that the meeting was over hours ago, and that Brian has been moping at home for ages. Deirdre finds this strange, because Ken had told her he was heading for the Rovers straight after the meeting. Brian, looking a little sheepish, tells her he is sure he must have been waylaid on official business or something. (Or something is right!) Deirdre sits there sucking a thoughtful tooth.

Marcus is just leaving the party down the road, when Maria stops him and tells him that Jason will be moving in tonight, and asks if he is OK with it. "Why wouldn't I be?" replies Marcus, but you can tell his response is forced. With that, Aiden and Marcus bid their goodbye's and a subdued Sean tells them to have a goodnight, and to give Canal Street a kiss from him. Sean is so obviously still carrying a torch for Marcus. As the door closes, he mutters "I'll give it six weeks", Maria tells him not to say that.

Nick and Gail are sitting alone in the Bistro going over the goings on at Roy's Rolls. Nick is amazed at the slick operation over there, and Gail agrees that the paella smelled lovely. Nick is also amazed that it was Mary that managed to pull it off, saying he didn't know she had it in her. Gail replies that it's always the quiet ones who are the worst. (Mary? Quiet? I don't think so!) She then suggests Nick should head hunt her, which makes him burst into laughter, and she retracts that statement. They then muse on how to get their own back on her, and suddenly Gail has an idea.

Marcus and Aiden have gone back to the flat to allow Marcus to change his jeans before heading out. However, as soon as they arrive, Marcus pours drinks. Aiden asks why, if they are going out, and Marcus snaps at him that he just wants a drink first. Still under the impression that it was Sean's presence that had disturbed Marcus so much, he sympathises with him. Aiden then suggests that as they are back there, why not stay, as he can't be bothered going out. Marcus is not having that though, and tells him firmly that they are definitely going out. Aiden asks why he keeps snapping at him, and Marcus tries to calm down, asking what he would rather do then. Aiden suggests getting a bottle of wine, and cuddling on the sofa and watch a film. Marcus protests that Maria and Jason will be there shortly, which doesn't bother Aiden one bit, but it obviously bothers Marcus. Trying another track, Aiden suggests they have an early night instead, indicating that they wouldn't be going there for an early sleep. Most obviously not in the mood for that either, Marcus tells him once again that he would much rather go out, but wants another drink before they do.

Emily & co are the last to leave Roy's Rolls, and they are all full and happy, complimenting Mary and Anna on hosting a wonderful evening. When the door has shut behind them, the two women collapse into a chair, totally knackered. Anna remarks what a fabulous success it has been, but reminds Mary that it was just a one off 'do' wasn't it? "Oh no," says Mary, "With success like that, there are many more to come!" Anna looks dismayed to say the least.

In the ginnel, both Tyrone and Fiz just happen to be putting their rubbish out at the same time. She comes over and asks how things are, and in particular how Kirsty is. He assures her that everything is great. She says she is pleased about that, but the worried look in her eyes say that she is still very much afraid for him.

He beats a hasty retreat back into the house, and the minute he gets inside Kirsty spins round from the sink and asks him who he was talking to out there. He nervously denies talking to anyone, and tells her it was probably the party next door that she heard. By the look on her face, I would say she doesn't believe him, but lets it go for now.

An unsuspecting Ken walks in the front door with a cheery hello. Deirdre paints on a forced smile, and tells him his chips are burnt, and asks how his meeting was. He responds that it was long, lugubrious and dull. "Poor thing" mutters Deirdre through gritted teeth. She goes on to ask him if it only just finished. Ken tells her that after the meeting he went to the Flying Horse with Brian. (Oops!) Ken went on to bemoan how much Brian can talk, indicating a reason for his lateness, "But I survived", he says. Deirdre plonks his egg and burnt chips in front of him and says "For Now!", with a little forced chuckle.

Mandy and Lloyd have had their curry and are walking back down Coronation Street. She suggests they go to Eileen's now if he wishes. She then asks him if he is being so nice to her for Jenna's sake, or because he wants to get back with her? He links his arm through hers, and assures her it is for Jenna's sake of course.

Jason & Marcus are crossing the street to go home, and Jason spots Marcus and 'Thingy' as he calls him, just getting into a cab. He asks Maria if she is absolutely sure she wants him to move in, and she assures him she does, and that she can't wait to get him settled in. Just as she says that, the cab drives by, and her eyes meet those of Marcus, and as the credits roll, you can tell there is unfinished business there.

Christine Warren

Written by Mark Wadlow Directed by Duncan Foster

The morning after the Spanish night finds the cafe empty and the reason for that is soon evident. Owen tells them that the Bistro is offering breakfast! Mary goes running off to find Gail running up and down the walk with a big sign advertising the breakfasts, cheaper than the cafe and with free beverage top ups. Mary arrives breathless to Nick and Gail being smug. Mary is doubly determined now. Brian and Julie emerge from the Bistro and it seems he's going to the former Head's funeral.

It's Ken's birthday and Deirdre has given him a boring pullover. He isn't overly enthusiastic about it but thanks her. He's got school work to do, he tells them, and he's got to take his car into the garage for an MOT. He takes off the pullover and rushes off. Deirdre looks disconcerted but tells Tracy everything is fine but she does comment that Ken couldn't wait to get out.

Maria has presented Jason with a big cooked breakfast for their first morning living together. She's in a brighter mood and is quite happy with things. She apologizes for keeping her medical problems from him last week. Marcus is apparently not up yet.

Ken returns to an empty house so he digs through the sideboard where he hid Wendy's present. He opens it and discovers cufflinks that look like typewriter keys and he's chuffed. He picks up the landline and calls her to thank her. Turns out she'd bought them for him 20 years ago and never got to give them to him and had found them when she moved. She asks him to come to her house to help her with the proposal for a bio-mass boiler (or something) for the school. He leaps at the chance.

Maria tells Jason that Marcus hadn't come home last night after all but she seems worried because he'd not let her know. Jason advises her to text Marcus. He cuddles her and offers to take Liam to nursery but she said she'll do it.

Ryan finds a Thomas Hardy book and it's Sally's. They talk about her taking A-Levels. Sally suggests he and his mother patch things up but he's not being thrown out.

Ken has dressed up smartly and put the new cufflinks on. He tells Deirdre that Brian summoned him to look at this boiler proposal and he's taking a cab as a birthday treat. Deirdre notices the cufflinks and he lies further and says he's had them for years, just doesn't wear the right sort of shirt often. They confirm they're still going for a drink later.

Michelle comes across Ryan and Sally talking about Thomas Hardy books. She is surprised to hear Ryan is cooking tea. He walks away, pretty much ignoring Michelle who is envious of Sally's ease with him. Sally says she's working on him and it's easier because she's not Ryan's mother. She thinks Michelle needs to leave it a little longer.

David tries to find out why Maria has lost so much time all week but she's evasive. He tries to pull rank but she can't be bothered. Kylie asks if Max can go on a class trip but David reminds her they're skint. She hollers at him for it. Aiden arrives looking for Marcus and tells her that Marcus had got drunk and gone off in a strop last night and also hasn't gone to work. Maria gets more worried and promises to let him know if she hears from him.

In the Kabin, Rita and Deirdre discuss Ken's birthday drinks do just as Brian comes in. Deirdre complains about Ken spending so much time at school and notes that Brian is also dressed as smartly as Ken. But Brian drops Ken in it by saying he's going to a funeral. So where's Ken going then? Deirdre runs outside just as Ken's getting in a cab. She watches it go just as Rita comes out as well and she gets Rita to drive her to follow Ken because he's up to his old tricks again. Rita is quite happy to play Lacy to Deirdre's Cagney and they're off like a shot.

After the break, Rita and Deirdre are a few cars behind the cab. Deirdre lays out the evidence. They're having a difficult time keeping up while Deirdre urges her to go faster.

A hungover Marcus is looking thoughtful while sat in the cafe. Jason comes in and sits down with him and thanks him for supporting Maria. Mary comes into the cafe from the flat, she'd been watering the plant. She and Anna discuss the competition and they need to up the ante, she thinks. Anne cries that it's much better if they just all go back to doing what they all do best but Mary's determined.

Maria works on a client while Kylie moans to David about becoming a junior stylist and learning from him. Marcus comes in looking woeful. He tells her the story, too, and apologizes. He tells her they need to talk so they plan to meet up at the flat shortly.

Sophie lets Tracy in and leaves. Tracy has found Ryan running the Hoover. Tracy slags off Sally and then pulls him back for a cuddle but he's busy with the food on the stove and puts her off.

Maria angers David by telling him she's leaving again.

Rita and Deirdre are driving through a very nice neighbourhood. Deirdre has spotted the taxi down a lane. She watches him and gets out of the car to get a better look as the thunder rumbles overhead. The OMG moment of the year has Deirdre's neck, chin and mouth in overdrive as she recognizes the woman that's come out to greet Ken. WENDY FLAMIN' CROZIER!!!!!!!

Tracy sees Michelle go into the Kabin. Brian and Julie have taken shelter from the rain in a doorway and he tells her about Ken's old flame turning up and Ken using him as cover. Inside the Kabin, Michelle is buying sweets for the knicker stitchers. In comes Tracy who starts poking her with an emotional stick. Steve running away avoiding all the problems. Sally taking over as Ryan's new mother. Michelle pretends she's not bothered with all Tracy's pointed remarks about Sally.

Ken thanks Wendy again for the gift and shows them for her. Wendy tells him the story, having them made years ago and not giving them to him. She found them after her husband died. They talk about the old days.

Michelle goes into the factory and hears Sally being a bit smug about how good a mother she is. Michelle snaps at her for no good reason that everyone can tell (we know it's a reaction to Tracy's barbs). Sally questions her and Michelle goes on the attack, accusing Sally of sticking her oar in where it didn't belong and is stirring up trouble on purpose. Sally insists on an apology or she'll walk out. Michelle informs her that if she walks, she's sacked!

Deirdre and Rita shelter from the rain in the car, Deirdre fretting about her formal rival. Rita wonders if there's a good explanation but Deirdre know Ken's been lying to her. She asks Rita to take her home.

Tvor

Part 2:

Written by Mark Burt and directed by Duncan Foster

Sally might mean well but giving Michelle the benefit of her opinion on her relationship with Ryan isn't the cleverest move, especially in front of everyone in the factory. As they all listen in open mouthed, Michelle points out to Sally that Ryan's only been living with her for five minutes and she reckons Sally only took him in so she could look down on Michelle. She adds that she probably only wanted to have a bit of eye candy around the place. Sally is outraged and tells Michelle she doesn't need to stand there and take abuse from her. She tells Michelle that she can stuff her job because she quits but Michelle responds that she's already sacked her. With that Julie steps forward and says in that case she'd better fire her as well. Sean walks out, swiftly followed by Beth and Kirk. "'Ang on, you can't do this," wails Michelle. "Watch us," declares Julie as they all walk out in sympathy with Sally.

Over at Wendy Crozier's, she and Ken are philosophising over a cup of coffee. Ken agrees that the happy marriage Wendy enjoyed with Kristos wasn't a bad swap for all their heartache. Then Wendy asks Ken if he ever wonders "what if ..." and he replies that sometimes he does but then he reminds himself that there are certain questions best left unasked.

The atmosphere at Maria's is less congenial. Marcus is suffering from a combination of a hangover and guilt over their kiss and he asks Maria if they can postpone their conversation. He tells her he's confused and can't face Aiden but Maria accuses him of burying his head in the sand. At that moment, Jason arrives with his stuff, all bright eyed and bushy tailed. Maria seems greatly relieved by the distraction and welcomes Jason with open arms while Marcus looks as though he has the weight of the world on his shoulders.

At the Bistro Nick's lamenting to Gail that his plan to open for breakfast has backfired. What with all the freeloaders taking advantage of the pastries and coffee refills he reckons he's actually lost money. But when Mary drops in on the pretext of offering her congratulations, Gail can't resist boasting that the breakfast promotion was so successful that Nick had to empty the till in order to fill it up again. With a fixed smile pasted onto her face, Mary tells them that she's glad they've embraced the idea of a bit of competition so enthusiastically but we can see from her face as she departs that she's not going to let this one go in a hurry.

Further up the street, Kylie's about to get stuck in to a client with a bowl of hair tint but her career as a colourist is short-lived when David arrives back in the nick of time. As he explains, Mrs. Weston is supposed to have Mango Intense and the stuff Kylie was about to plaster onto her head would have made her come out looking like Nicki Minaj.

Meanwhile, Deirdre is in the backyard sucking the life out of a cigarette when Ken returns and makes out that the governors' meeting went well. "Odd that," says Deirdre "because I'm sure I remember hearing Brian say that he had a funeral to attend." The cat's out of the bag and when Deirdre demands to know where he's been and who with, Ken has no option but to come clean and admit he was with Wendy Crozier.

In the Rovers, Gloria tells Beth that she's been eyeballing every man who comes into the pub in case he's the Mystery Drinker is for the Pub of the Year contest. Beth says she thought she did that with every man. Gloria says yes but now it's no longer recreational.

Beth carries the round of drinks over Julie, Kirk, Sally and Sean who are discussing the factory walkout when Rob comes in and wonders what they're doing in the pub when they're supposed to be working overtime. "So you're on strike?!" exclaims Rob when he's been filled in. Sean tells him that they prefer to think of it as a time out.

Back at Ken and Deirdre's he's doing his best to explain how he didn't know that Wendy Crozier was a governor until after he'd agreed to apply. Deirdre isn't going to be placated that easily and tells Ken she saw him at her house. Ken is aghast that Deirdre should have followed him and says that it's beyond the pale. "And lying isn't?" retorts Deirdre. Ken tries to tell her that they were only having a meeting and that their relationship is strictly platonic which leads Deirdre to ask him about the cufflinks he's wearing. "You make me sick" says Deirdre. An exasperated Ken tells Deirdre it's ancient history. "Not to me," replies Deirdre. "Not to me."

Deirdre decides to share her concerns about Ken and Wendy with Tracy. Tracy can't believe it; she reckons Wendy must look like an old fossil by now and says her father must be really scraping the barrel. Deirdre says she doesn't know whether to believe Ken when he says it's all above board but Tracy tells her mother she's been really reasonable and now it's time to be unreasonable. She advises her to confront Wendy and give her hell. "I intend to," says Deirdre.

Rob goes over to the factory to talk to Michelle. He uses a clever bit of reverse psychology to get her to admit that maybe she did overstep the mark a bit with Sally and provoke her into walking out. Rob tells her that the only reason Sally behaves as she does is because she's jealous that Michelle is better looking and more successful than her. He also tells Michelle that where Ryan's concerned she's the best mum in the world. Once she has a smile back on her face Rob adds "now let's see you grovel!"

We move to Maria's flat where she, Jason and Marcus are just settling down to an evening in when Aiden walks in. Marcus is angry when he discovers Maria has invited him over and then looks shocked when she tells Aiden that last night was completely her fault. But she's not about to spill the beans on what went on between them and merely explains about her cancer scare and how Marcus needed to let off steam because she put so much pressure on him while he gave her support. Jason adds that Marcus is a really top bloke. Aiden couldn't agree more and envelopes Marcus in a big hug and says that's why he's crazy about him. Marcus certainly looks crazy but clearly not in the way that Aiden means.

Over at the cafe Anna's at her wits' end when she finds out that Mary has ordered 22 pounds of beetroot so she can make borscht for a Russian theme night. Mary tells her they have to do something because the Bistro are wiping out their breakfast trade. Anna says she's making it sound like a war. "It is a war," replied Anna. "And come next week it will be the cold war."

Following Tracy's advice, Deirdre goes round to Wendy Crozier's house to confront her. She demands to know what's been going on between her and Ken. Without turning a hair Wendy explains they were discussing the new biomass boiler for the school. She tells Deirdre that Ken was never the love of her life and that the man who was died five years ago. But Deirdre's a woman on a mission and she tells Wendy to stay away from Ken and adds that it's her only warning. With that she flings down the box of cufflinks and turns on her heel.

In the Rovers, Dennis is asking Rita what she's going to say to Ken. Gloria pricks up her ears when Rita replies that she's going to stay well out of it but Rita's not about to enlighten her.

Across the pub, Beth and Tracy are enjoying a drink. Beth tells Tracy that she's really got Michelle wound up by her relationship with Ryan but she doesn't look altogether convinced when Tracy insists that she and Ryan really care about each other.

Ken comes in and joins Emily, Rita and Dennis who exchange glances when Ken explains that Deirdre won't be joining them as she has a headache. Just then Tracy comes over and hauls her Dad out of his seat so she can have a quick word. She accuses him of being a hypocrite over her and Ryan when all along he's been seeing his ex-mistress. Ken insists that Wendy's just a colleague but Tracy's on the warpath and tells Ken that if she hears otherwise he's going to wish he'd sailed away on that other trollop's barge.

Next to arrive in the Rovers are Rob and Michelle who make their way over to Sally, Sean et al. Michelle asks if she can have a word with Sally who replies that anything she has to say to her can be sent in front of everyone. "Budge up," says Tracy as she joins the group, not wanting to miss out on any of the action. Michelle glowers at her and Tracy asks if the cat's got her tongue. "Belt up," Rob says to Tracy. Michelle gives a fulsome apology to Sally and then adds that she's really grateful for everything she's doing for Ryan. Just as she's adding that she's sorry, Ryan steps in behind her and wants to know what she's sorry for. With a degree of relish, Tracy tells him that his Mam's had a little "industrial dispute".

At the salon, Kylie's sweeping up as she tells David how much she's enjoyed her first day as his trainee. She's got the whole thing planned out in her mind, including going back to college but David has bad news for her. He looks awkward as he tells her that it's not criticism of her but he thinks it's best if she sticks to doing beauty and nails for the time being. What with his gran back and Maria, hair-wise the salon's pretty much sorted. Kylie is upset - she thought it was all agreed. She saw it as a step up and wants more for her life but David tells her profits are down and it's difficult. "Believe me you haven't seen difficult," sobs Kylie as she grabs her coat and rushes out.

In the Rovers, Ken's gone off to buy another round. Emily is perplexed about what's going on and the story about Deirdre having a headache. Rita and Dennis exchange glances. While Gloria serves Ken she tells him to cheer up - it might never happen. Ken replies that it already has. Then Gloria excuses herself to go and answer the phone. It's Lancashire Leisure returning her call and we hear Gloria telling them that she was going through the paperwork and couldn't help noticing that they hadn't been entered for the Bed and Breakfast section ...

Back in the bar, Emily is just wondering whether she should go and check on Deirdre when Brian arrives. Before he has time to settle himself down Ken grabs him for a quick word. He tells Brian that Deirdre knows about Wendy. Brian moves over to sit with Julie, Beth and Kirk where he informs Julie rather cryptically that "the pigeons have come home to roost".

Ken has rejoined Rita, Dennis and Emily. Emily says she's overheard that Deirdre's on the warpath so Ken tells her that there are some crossed wires. Emily sees Rita and Dennis look at each other again and wants to know what they know that she doesn't. So Rita comes clean and admits that she was the one who drove Deirdre to Wendy's house. Dennis says he's sure there's some perfectly innocent explanation to which Ken replies that there is but it's completely wasted on most of his friends and family. He adds that if they'll excuse him, he'd rather suffer the happy occasion of his birthday on his own and wishes them a goodnight.

Back at home and angry Deirdre is nursing a glass of red wine when Ken returns from the Rovers. He says that thanks to her he's now front page news and she retorts that he always did like to see his name in print. She tells him about her visit to Wendy Crozier. Ken is worried that she might have made a scene to which Deirdre replies that she didn't because, unlike him, she's still got some self-respect left. "Of course she swears blind there's nothing going on," adds Deirdre. So Ken insists, yet again, that's because there isn't.

Ken goes on to tell Deirdre how he didn't want to jeopardize his new governor's role as the work he's doing matters. He's rediscovered a part of himself that he thought he'd lost. "And very attractive she is too," mutters Deirdre. An exasperated Ken accuses Deirdre of being irrational.

Ken tells Deirdre that he's trying to pour his heart out to her. "And what about my heart?" sobs Deirdre. She tells Ken that the lies hurt twenty years ago and they still hurt. "I deserve better," she sobs. "I always 'ave." Then Deirdre gives Ken an ultimatum: "I'm sorry," she says. "It's the job or me."

Karen

Eva hears Gloria on the phone taking a booking for a bed and breakfast guest. She tells her they're not set up for that and warns her that Stella will go spare. Gloria assures her that only the people from the magazine know they're doing bed and breakfast, so this guest must be the judge, and he'll be their only customer. If he's satisfied they're home and dry. Eva says that Gloria had better tell Stella.

Ken is pleading with a frosty Deirdre to let him continue as a school governor. He says he's 73 years old, and past philandering. Deirdre reckons he'll never be past it. Even if she trusted Ken, she'll never trust Wendy, so Ken must resign, today!

Beth, Eva and Sally are chatting over a cuppa when Michelle comes in, tired and grumpy. She snaps that it's after 9 and they should be at their machines. Beth mutters that she knew the apology was a sham. Michelle takes a deep breath and says she's sorry, she's very tired and not been sleeping well. Sally points out that it's not their fault. Michelle reminds her that her son has turned his back on her and become the plaything of the friendly neighbourhood psycho, and she doesn't know how much more she can take.

David and Maria are going through the appointments book. Kylie remarks that at least they're doing something worthwhile, she's not happy at making tea and sweeping up, and at the first decent chance she gets she's getting out of the salon.

Sally takes a cuppa into Michelle in the office. Michelle confides that since Ryan got back there's been nothing but trouble. He's like a stranger to her. Sally suggests that they both sit down and talk out how they feel. She tells Michelle she can't afford to lose her temper, she needs to stay calm so that Ryan can see she's taking him seriously. Sally suggests Michelle comes for her tea so that she can talk to Ryan without Tracy being there.

Anna goes to the Bistro, where they're serving breakfast, to see Nick, she says it's time they stopped treading on each other's toes and things got back to normal. Nick tells her to sit down and goes to get her coffee. While he's gone, Gail sticks her oar in, telling her that what they're serving in the bistro is far superior to the plates of lard and mugs with bags in them that the cafe serve up. Anna gets so angry she walks out.

Sally goes back to her house and tells Ryan and Tracy that Michelle is coming later for tea so they can talk. Tracy says they'll be there, but Sally tells her she's assured Michelle it will only be Ryan, just mother and son. Tracy doesn't like it, but Sally tells her it's her house and her dinner table.

Helped by Sophie and Ryan, Sally is getting the table ready for tea when Michelle arrives.

In the pub, Brian goes over to Deirdre and tells her off as if she's a child. He's upset because Ken has tendered his resignation. Rita tells him that Deirdre doesn't have to explain herself to him, it's none of his business. Brian says it is very much his business, and seems to think that as Ken and Wendy are now both pensioners nothing could possible happen. Deirdre, however, is adamant. She tells him she's upset that Ken and Wendy meet at all, there has been too much between them in the past, and it is not happening again.

There's an awkward atmosphere at Sally's dinner table, she urges Michelle and Ryan to talk to each other. Michelle tells her son she doesn't know how it's come to this, she only wants him to be happy, and if that's what Tracy makes him, she'll accept him. She just wants him to come home. Ryan says he's sorry, and he's sick of them arguing. He misses her and wants to start again.

Nick comes into the cafe, he's found out what Gail said, and wants to apologise. He wants them both to go back to what they do best. They should both go back to what they do best. His place does fine dining, they are a greasy spoon. This gets Anna and Mary very annoyed and they chase him away.

Deirdre is talking her situation over with Rita, who says that Ken has probably changed.

Michelle, Ryan and Sally are in the pub too, having a celebratory drink. Tracy comes in, demanding to know why Ryan hasn't answered her calls. Michelle tells her that Ryan is moving back home. Tracy is outraged and tries to pull him to one side, saying they need to talk. He tells her to back off, and says he may call her tomorrow. He then walks out. Michelle and Sally smile at each other.

Kylie tells Gail that she wants more than just to drift along and get by. She wants Max to have all the chances she never had and wonders why David can't see that. Gail tells her that David has a lot of qualities but isn't the dynamic type. Nick has all the ambition in their family.

Just as Gloria and Eva are wondering how to tell Stella about the bed and breakfast guest, Stella comes in and tells them that she's been invited to a hen do in Dublin - this weekend! Gloria assures her that she and Eva can manage, and urges her to go and get packing.

Ken is huffing a puffing, so in the end Deirdre gives in and says he doesn't have to stand down as a governor, but she warns him she'll be watching him like a hawk.

Ryan arrives home and is just sitting down with his mum when a very stroppy Tracy arrives. She tells Ryan she's been feeling moody and queasy all day, so she went to the chemist. "Oh no!" says Michelle. "Oh yes," says Tracy. Ryan looks bewildered. "Will someone tell me what's going on here?" he says. "You're going to be a daddy," says Tracy.

Anne Logan.

Written by Carmel Morgan Directed by Duncan Foster

Ryan is shell shocked and Michelle is sarcastic. How could he have got himself into this? Ryan can't understand how it happened because Tracy is on the pill and that's why he didn't take precautions. Michelle tries to call Steve who's still in Spain. Ryan admits he's not ready to be a father.

Ken is polishing shoes and saying he's giving the shoes a new lease on life. Deirdre takes that to mean he himself has found the same. Ken is heading to the school autumn fair. It's clear Deirdre is not ok with him staying on in the position what with all the loaded remarks she's been tossing in his direction.

Across the road, Kylie is bored and David is slumped in front of the telly. He's quite happy to be there but she wants to do something. Gail comes downstairs and mentions that Leanne has taken Max out for the day and suggests David take Kylie out. He's not bothered and claims he's knackered. Gail thought Audrey was due back from their cruise holiday yesterday but hasn't heard anything yet. Kylie sighs. David yawns.

Deirdre tells Tracy about the school autumn fair. Tracy and Deirdre play tag team insulting Ken for a minute. Tracy goes back upstairs and Ken invites Deirdre along. She agrees with a smile.

Gloria is also knackered, having cleaned the place from top to bottom in anticipation of their B&B guest. Eva thinks Stella will murder her mother but Gloria doesn't think Stella will find out, as it's only the one night. She also instructs Eva as to acceptable topics of conversation with the guest.

Michelle approaches Ryan and apologizes for going off the deep end. She says if this baby is what he really wants, she'll back him. He looks terrified. Steve bursts through the door, carrying a multicoloured pinata, sporting sunglasses and basking in post-holiday glow. He didn't get any of Michelle's recent messages because his phone battery died. He's soon brought back to earth by the news. Michelle seems to be blaming Steve. She doesn't think Tracy is faking it because after losing twins, why would she? (um. Are you new here?) She orders Steve to sort it.

Kylie and Gail watch David snore on the sofa. Kylie is painting Gail's nails. Nick comes in, wakes up David with a smack and says he's had an odd phone call from Audrey, to pick her up at the train. Gail offers to go with. Nick asks for help in the Bistro as he has a crowd of lorry drivers' wives in this afternoon. Gail volunteers all of their services, much to David's chagrin.

Steve bangs on the door of Number 1. Ken and Deirdre come out just as Tracy approaches up the pavement. He's beside himself and it's evident that her parents don't know the latest so he fills them in. Ken is exasperated and Deirdre has a good moan (Ohhhh Trayyyyceeee!!!!) the likes of which we haven't heard for some time. Did Tracy not think her parents would find out? Ken invites Steve in.

After the break, everyone is inside. Tracy maintains a perky demeanor. Deirdre is trying to be positive. Ken is disgusted. He's sure the relationship will crumble, they'll be responsible for another child and Tracy will continue to avoid responsibility. It's deeply unedifying, Ken exclaims, to which Tracy chirps "It's deeply Jerry Springer!"

The Bistro is rocking with rowdy women. David and Kylie are run off their feet and complaining about the customers. Gail fields the complaints from one of the women and then makes a bit of a dolt of herself with small talk.

Deirdre and Ken are getting ready to leave for the school, pleased to get out of ground zero for a bit. They leave Tracy and Steve to it. He tells Tracy that Michelle is struggling. He lays it on the line. He knows she's playing games and he knows she wouldn't cross a line out of respect for their twins. That hits home and her face has the grace to fall. He whips out his chequebook and asks how much she wants. He'll pay for the termination and a bit extra for a holiday to recover. Oh it's not going to be that easy. She is hurt. Murder and a mini-break... she calls it and tears up the cheque, affronted, insulted and on the attack. They holler at each other and she throws him out but it's clear some of the things he said really did hurt her.

Nick has brought Audrey home from the train station and she's clearly upset about something. Lewis is not with them. Rita and Dennis call over to greet her and welcome her back but she's a bit evasive and agrees that Lewis is home doing the unpacking. Nick hurries her into the Bistro. Rita looks concerned. Inside the Bistro, Gail can tell right away that something is wrong. She along with David and Kylie come over. Audrey tells her that Lewis has disappeared.

In the pub, Audrey's friends are gossiping. Rita has obviously said that she thought Audrey was not as happy as you would think after a nice holiday but since nobody knows what's going on, speculation is the order of the day. Norris and Dennis are suspicious and more gossipy than the women. They change the subject and play the game, who would you invite to your last dinner party. Rita has celebs and Tina along with her mates. Rita guesses Dennis' guests spot on after one wrong move. Emily has some lofty names but includes the name of the woman from church that plays the organ. Oh right. Lovely little slice of life.

Steve comes back to the flat where Michelle has been furiously cleaning to burn off that energy. He hasn't said what he tried but admits Tracy isn't going to listen to him. She grabs her jacket and is spitting tacks as she leaves. Outside, Ryan is on Maxine's bench brooding. Sophie comes along and he tells her his news. She is surprised but thinks he'll be a great dad.

Over to Bessie Street school. Julie looks a million bucks in a 1950s retro dress and floofy fascinator. Brian and Julie make small talk about the turnout and other parents. Wendy joins the group and greets Deirdre who calls her Mrs. Papadopalous, curtly. Wendy wants to get stuck in and help at the booths. She's brought some cakes. Deirdre decides to help Wendy on the cake stall. This may not be pretty. Ken looks worried.

Written by: Carmel Morgan
Directed by: Duncan Foster

Audrey is sobbing in the Bistro. She is explaining to Gail and Nick that Lewis had disappeared from the Eurostar around Lille, she had reported it to the transport police, who took all the details, but didn't seem very interested, she then waited and waited until the last train had arrived, but no Lewis.

Kylie and David are standing across the room, speculating on what has happened. David reckons he has probably run off with a minted widow, which is not an unreasonable speculation under the circumstances.

Tracy and Ryan are standing in the hallway of No. 1. She asks him if he really believes that she is 'up the duff', and he asks why he wouldn't believe her. (Obviously he doesn't know her as well as we do).

She goes on to say that she knows exactly what his mother has been saying to him, and she is right, he is young, and that she can't tie him down, she loves and respects him too much for that. She ends that sentence with a sob, which makes him rush over to comfort her. She assures him that she didn't do it on purpose she has been taking her pills religiously, then boosts his morale by telling him he must be extra virile or something. She promises him it was an accident, and this is why she is setting him free.

He is shocked that she wants to split up with him, but she sobs that she can be a single Mum again, she has done it before. She then plays her trump card, and tells him that it wouldn't matter how much his Mum and Steve offered her, even if it was six figures, there was no way she would be willing to kill their baby. Ryan is shocked, and asks if they offered her money, and she tells him that it was blood money. She then sobs that he should just hold her for a minute, then she must set him free.

Gloria is upsetting all the punters in the Rovers by going round spraying an air freshener. A stranger walks in, and Gloria gushes all over him because it is apparent that he is the B&B guest/contest examiner she was expecting. She invites him through the flap into B&B heaven - as she calls it. Eva whispers to her Gran that "Less is more", but Gloria replies "No love, less is less".

Michelle is knocking back her drink, and Rob remarks that he has a feeling she is not exactly celebrating. Michelle tells him that they could be wetting the baby's head. He is puzzled, so she goes on to explain that Ryan is going to be a father, and begins to cry. Rob puts his arm around her, and tries to console her. Steve comes in just at that moment, and is not best pleased to see Rob being so familiar. He decides then and there to stay close by to Michelle for the rest of the evening.

The Bessie Street School Autumn Fair is well underway, and Brian is happy that Deirdre and Wendy haven't pulled out the sharp knives yet. Ken however feels they don't need them as Deirdre's tongue could lacerate equally well. The ladies are discussing cakes, with Julie saying her first choice would be a Victoria Sponge, followed by Lemon Drizzle, and finally a Malt Loaf. She then asks Deirdre for her choices. She also plumps for a Victoria Sponge first, followed by a Coffee & Walnut, then possibly a Danish.

Julie then asks Wendy, who pompously replies that she is more a cheese and crackers person, she loves a lump of gooey Stilton with a fig. Deirdre asks if she eats cake at all, and Wendy reminds her about a moment on the lips and all that. Ooh if looks could kill, there would be vultures circling above her head about now! But Deirdre quickly recovers her composure and asks her "Where do you stand on Manchester Tart?" Ken and Brian look at each other in dismay.

Gloria is still gushing over her house guest, and is offering a selection of breakfasts for the morning never seen in any B&B I have ever stayed in, including fresh eggs laid only two ginnels away! She has also bought every single newspaper, plus the Sunday supplements for him to peruse at his leisure. He mentions that he might take one into the bar with a Newton & Ridley's. "Oh no," she tells him, "Our guests are royalty, there is no need for you to slum it with the Hoi Polloi", and goes on to tell him to sit himself down and make himself at home right where he is.

Audrey is at Gail's, and staring despondently at Lewis' photo. Nick, David & Kylie come in and Nick is thanking Kylie for her help, that she has done really well today. Kylie replies that she enjoyed it. Nick asks if there is any news on Lewis, and is told that there is not. Audrey says that she rang a contact at the Gazette, because he always knows someone that knows someone. She is fretting that he might be lying in a gutter somewhere, but Gail figures it's more likely that he got off the train at Lille, and was taken ill or something.

The B&B guest comes down the stairs to find that Gloria has ironed his shirt for him. How she got her hands on it we may never know, because the Lawrence is still wearing the same shirt he arrived in. He thanks her, and tells her to add it to the bill, but she says it's all part of the service. He asks where the Guest Book is, as he would like to sign it. She looks stricken for a minute, but tells him that she doesn't hold with them, as far as she is concerned, they are just tools to fish for compliments. She's a very quick thinker is our Gloria! They get into conversation about how often he travels, he tells her he is away five nights per week, but his wife Dilys quite likes it. He then asks if they are busy, and Gloria assures him they are, and get people from across the globe. Eva corrects her, and tells him she means the UK, although they did once have a couple of Australian pack packers.

He then went on to say something that really got my back up. He suggested that they should exploit the fact that Weatherfield is so close to Salford, and promote Cool Britannia and all that jazz. 'Weatherfield is so close to Salford'? Why can't these writers make up their minds where Weatherfield is? Originally it was a fictional place based on Salford, then a while back, they referred to Weatherfield 'as' Salford - i.e. Jason said "I am just a Salford Lad", and Roy remarked that his was a Salford back street cafe. The writer in question explained on Twitter that Weatherfield was a suburb of Salford, which doesn't explain why Weatherfield has always had it's own Mayor, councilors, town hall, fire department, hospital, and refuse collection department - and now they are saying it is 'near' Salford! Why can't they read their own history and keep it consistent? So now, if it is near Salford, the boundary line has to run down the middle of Rosamund Street, putting Roy's Rolls and the Kebab Shop in Salford and the Rovers and the Salon in Weatherfield. Not sure which side of the line Streetcars and the Betting Shop fall! Sorry - but it always makes me angry when they make such blatant mistakes - I will get off my soapbox now and get on with the story!

Back at Bessie Street school, Deirdre is watching Wendy and Ken from afar with a worried look on her face. Julie comes over and asks if she is alright. She replies that she is, but asks if she is correct, that Wendy is flirting with Ken, that it isn't her imagination. Julie agrees that she is, that she can't help herself. Deirdre remarks that Ken too likes a big lump of gooey Stilton. Julie admonishes that it doesn't matter if they have some things in common, the fact remains that Ken is hers. Deirdre ruefully remarks that they have a lot of things in common. Julie looks over to Wendy and says to Deirdre "Look at the behind on her - she's no stranger to cakes!" This cheers Deirdre up no end. :-)

However, her cheerfulness doesn't last long. She asks Julie if Brian has mentioned what Wendy is like at meetings, and she replies he hasn't said much about her. Deirdre said that all those years ago, Ken couldn't stop talking about her at first, it was Wendy this and Wendy that, then he suddenly stopped talking about her, and she found out later that it was then that the affair began. She asks Julie what Brian thinks of her, and is told that he can't stand her. However, he has said that she is a real go-getter. "Sounds about right for a home wrecker", says Deirdre. Julie goes on to say that she does feel Deirdre has done the right thing by allowing Ken to continue on the board. Deirdre murmurs that only time will tell on that one.

Tracy and Ryan come into the Rovers, and the sniping continues between Michelle and Tracy. Tracy loudly tells Michelle that she is carrying her grandchild, and it's about time she started showing her some respect. This perks up the ears of the rest of the punters, including Norris, so it will be all round the street in five minutes. Michelle turns to Ryan and tells him to pack a bag and jump on a train and leave as quickly as possible. He calls her on the fact that earlier she had told him she would support his choices. Michelle tells him that was earlier and this is now. He then tells her that he knows she tried to bribe Tracy into getting rid of the baby. Michelle is in total shock, as this is the first she has heard about it. She turns to Steve in horror, and he tells her that it was worth a shot - that she had told him to make it go away, and he was trying to do just that. It all then kicks off again between Michelle and Ryan, and Tracy tells her that she should be pleased that he is stepping up to the plate. "The only plate I can see sweetheart is one with 'is 'ead on it!" spits back Michelle.

Oh I don't believe this! They have just done it again! In the heat of the argument Ryan shouts to his mother "Why are you being so judgmental Mum? You were knocked up with me at 15". No she wasn't! She was knocked up with Alex, Ryan isn't her real son, they were switched at birth, remember? Nobody, but nobody in the pub contradicts him though, including Michelle. Oh this makes me SO angry when they sweep their own storylines under the carpet!

Michelle is furious, and Tracy asks her if she would have gotten rid of him if someone had offered her money? Michelle is speechless, and makes to leave. Steve tells her he will come with her, but she rounds on him, pointing her finger and snaps for him to stay away from her. Rob gets up and tells Steve he will go after her, which doesn't make Steve's day either.

After the break Steve is still drowning his sorrows in the Rovers, and getting smug looks from Tracy and daggers from Emily. He's finally had enough and decides to leave. On his way out he bumps into Stella who has arrived back a day early. Eva tries her best to send her across to the cafe for a cup of tea, but she is not going to be put off and barges her way into the back room. Lawrence smiles at her, believing her to be a fellow guest. Before she can contradict him, Gloria appears, tells her she must be Stella and welcomes her to the Rovers, quickly ushering her back out the door, saying she will show her to her room. As the door closes behind them, Stella finally manages to speak, and she says to her mother "This had better be good!". Gloria and Eva explain what is going on, and Stella is not pleased at all. She is all for going in there and throwing Lawrence out immediately, but Gloria begs her to hold off for just one night, as he doesn't know that they know he is a judge for the competition, and therefore they stand a good chance of winning.

Gail is persuading Audrey to stay with her tonight. Audrey frets that Lewis might call her at home. Gail assures her that if he doesn't get an answer there, he will know that she is at her daughter's. Nick suggests they put his photo online, and says he will look for a missing persons website. Gail suggests they also ring the British Embassy in Paris.

Audrey thanks them for not saying what she knows they are thinking, that Lewis has done a bunk once again. She goes on to say that she knows he hasn't done that, she knows he has changed, and she has faith in him. She sobs again in Nick's arms, worried sick that something really awful has happened to him.

Talking about sobbing, Michelle is doing the same thing in her flat, but the one comforting her, with his arm around her is Rob, so of course Steve has to arrive home just then and doesn't like what he sees. He tells Rob that he can handle things from here - thank you very much! So Rob takes the hint and leaves.

He tries to explain to Michelle why he offered Tracy money to make the 'problem go away' - as Michelle herself had requested. Michelle shouts at him that she didn't mean for him to throw money at the problem, that he has now made things ten times worse. He tries again to explain to her that money is the only thing that Tracy understands, and nothing else would have worked. But that doesn't go over as a valid argument, because that didn't work either, and Michelle now feels that they will be more determined than ever to have the baby, and will never believe she wasn't in on the plan to get rid of it.

Steve has a dig about Rob being all over her when he came in, which only serves to make Michelle more irate than she was before, if that is possible. She screams at him that there is nothing going on between her and Rob, never has been, that it is his (Steve's) past that is robbing her son of his future.

Ken & Deirdre arrive home to No. 1, and find Tracy and Ryan sitting on the sofa. Tracy can't wait to fill them in on Steve's attempt to buy an abortion for Tracy. Deirdre is horrified, unlike Ken who mutters under his breath that the situation does rather call for desperate measures. After a long snog from Tracy, which makes Ken more than a little uncomfortable, Ryan comes up for air, and tells Ken & Deirdre that he is happy with the situation, and is looking forward to raising their child together. Ken replies that he is impressed - he hadn't even seen Tracy's lips move when he said that! LOL!! Ryan tells him that he knows his own mind, and Ken hits right back with "And I know my own daughter".

With that, he says he is going to have a lie down. Deirdre calls him back, asking him if he doesn't think they have things to talk about, as a family? Ken tells her to wake up, that Tracy is going to sing whatever tune she wants, whenever she wants, and they are all going to dance to it - end of!

The bigger fight is still going on in Michelle's flat. Michelle is still blaming Steve for the whole thing, saying he has succeeded in pushing them even closer together, and she is now the villain. Steve protests that she was the one who sent him round, told him to fix it - he was only following orders. He points out that it's not his fault if Tracy is demented. Michelle then hits him below the belt with - yeah and you only went and married her didn't you! He starts to explain his reasoning for that error in judgement, then decides against it, not wanting to drag over the past yet again.

Michelle then points out the obvious (and the not so obvious), by saying that Tracy is going to manipulate him, deceive him and confuse him (obvious), and he is her only child (not so obvious....reminder Alex), and that Tracy will use this baby as a bargaining tool, a weapon, and there is not a single thing she will be able to do about it.

Her voice then drops an octave, and she reminds Steve that when they first got back together, she told him she didn't want a future with him if it involved Tracy. Steve tells her that he is not going to let Tracy come between the two of them. "Stuff me and you!", says Michelle. She goes on to tell him to get out, that she can't bear to look at his gormless face.

Rather than looking gormless, Steve's face looks very hurt as he turns and leaves the flat. As the door closes, Michelle picks up the donkey thing that Steve brought her back from Spain and throws it at the door, then collapses in a sobbing heap.

Christine Warren

Written by Simon Crowther Directed by Laurence Moody

The police have come to go over the details for Audrey's report of a missing person. She says he did have his passport with him. Gail brings cups of tea all around (you notice they never actually drink it?). Audrey also spoke to the Gazette the day before and says they didn't have a row. Him disappearing was out of character, well, except for the time he disappeared for 18 months.

Steve has slept on the mini-sofa. Michelle wakes him up with an owly mood. They row about him trying to buy off Tracy because Ryan thinks she was in on the idea. Ryan comes in to get more stuff. Steve insists that the money thing was all his idea nothing to do with Michelle. He's willing to take all the blame but doesn't understand why he's always in the wrong. It was the best idea considering it's Tracy.

Gloria reads a newspaper article about Lewis' disappearance from the Eurostar at the Lille stop. Stella asks after the B&B guest. Gloria reminds Stella that she's supposed to be a guest too so think on!

In the Kabin, Norris is continuing the Gazette article, reading out loud while Mary busies herself at one of the shelves, listening. There's a picture of Lewis on the front page but as we switch camera angles we can see the headline on the back and it's spelled wrong! "Surprising Result" (to do with the Korean F1. I didn't even know there was an F1 race in Korea but apparently there is!) Norris figures he's after some French woman.

Ken continues the story from Number 1. He thinks Lewis is returning to type, poor Audrey. He gets up and searches for some paperwork as he has a governors' meeting later. Tracy makes a few caustic remarks regarding Wendy. Ken defends himself and says Deirdre and Wendy got on fine at the fair the day before.

In the Salon, Kylie reckons Lewis is conning Audrey again. He's gained everyone's trust and is off on one again. She does feel a bit of pity though. "Con men and trannies... she don't have much luck" (I love Kylie!) Nick arrives to find if there's any news. He's told that Audrey is sure he'll return. Nick thinks he will too and then offers Kylie a job at the Bistro. David is not happy but since Kylie feels she's going nowhere at the salon, she accepts the job.

Gloria fawns over the guest over breakfast, catering to his every whim. Stella arrives and agrees to a full cooked breakfast. Glo calls her Mrs. Johannesburg. Stella calls it Swedish. He asks what she thinks of Gloria. A one off, is Stella's opinion and says she felt very much at home. That's high praise. The guest/judge says it's been the best he's seen to date and admits he's a judge just as Gloria comes in from the kitchen. He tells her that she's passed with flying colours and there will be a mystery drinker in later in the week. Stella grins cheekily at her mother and reckons she'll have to be on her best behaviour on a go forward basis. Glo looks exhausted already!

Mary has the groceries in for Russian night. Anna tells Mary that the cheap breakfasts at the Bistro are no longer on the menu. Mary calls that a victory. Mary lists the menu, including borscht but Kirk, waiting at the counter, doesn't like the idea of cold soup. He says he's not really into foreign foods, preferring pizza and kebabs. (I love Kirk, too!) Mary lures him with a competitive price. Over at a table, Mandy is leaving infinite messages for Jenna who is maintaining radio silence. Lloyd figures Jenna will come around but Mandy isn't so sure.

Tracy and Ryan arrive back at Number 1, having been to the doctor to confirm the pregnancy. Ken is dismayed to hear Tracy has already quit her job, it will be too tiring. He wonders where they're all going to live because there's no room in Number 1. He's quite sarcastic and then takes himself off to the pub for a bit of peace and quiet. Tracy explains that Ken has lived in the same house his whole life (near enough). Ryan suggests they leave and move to Glasgow. He knows a mate with a spare room. (that's good. One spare room, two adults, a child and a baby.) She tries to put him off but when he says Michelle will explode, Tracy says she's all for it.

After the break, Audrey comes into Gail's with her overnight bag. She says she'll wait another hour or two and then go for a drink if he's not back. She's got to face the neighbourhood gossips sooner or later. In the pub, they most certainly are gossiping. Norris and Ken are chatting across the bar with Gloria.

Steve comes in and has already heard that Tracy has quit her job when Ken mentions it. They chat just as Rob gets up to head back to the factory. He mentions the atmosphere in the factory that morning and hopes there's no hard feelings over what happened the day before. Steve is fine with it. Rob doesn't think he'd be so happy to have seen his girl holding another man's hand.

Mandy is showing Lloyd some photos of Jenna when she was younger. Jenna comes into the cab office, she was in the neighbourhood. She's nervous with her mother. Lloyd suggests they all go out for a meal tonight. Jenna agrees.

The factory workers try to decipher the complex relationships between Amy and Ryan and Tracy's new baby. Sounds complicated to me too! Rob hollers at them all for gossiping about Michelle. Tracy and Ryan walk in to have a word.

Gail and Audrey enter the pub and overhear the chatter. Norris asks if her bank account is intact. Ken avers he's on Audrey's side but has his own problems. Audrey is short with him but apologizes.

Ryan has spread the good news about Glasgow. As expected Michelle is not happy about it. Ryan thinks they need a fresh start. Michelle doesn't take him seriously and doesn't think the living arrangements are going to work out. She turfs Tracy out of the office to have a private word with Ryan.

Nick is showing Kylie all the rest of the Bistro amenities. A blonde woman comes in and asks if it's where Lewis Archer worked.

Back to Michelle and Ryan. She wonders what the future is going to bring. They'll be camping out in a room in a shared house and then what? Ryan thinks Tracy will go where the spirit takes her. He wonders if his dad was still alive then... Ha ... don't use that one, Michelle says, his dad is gone and so are his uncles so she's all he has. She tried her best to make sure he always had a roof over his head. He's flippant which only fires off Michelle's temper and she screams at Tracy out in the factory and has to be held back by Rob from throttling Tracy. Tracy plays up sympathy and Rob tells the rest of the workers they can go home.

In the pub, Audrey tells Gail that there's no sign of Lewis from the hospitals. Stella tells Gloria she's had an invitation from her friend for a holiday in Minorca. The factory bees come in. Gloria's overflowing with friendly Mein Host manners. Nick leads the blonde woman in and they join Gail and Audrey. He introduces her as Penny. She has some news about Lewis' behaviour. She says that Lewis saw her get on the train at Lille and ran like a scared rabbit. Everyone at the bar is listening over their shoulders so the news is going to spread fast. Penny says she and Lewis have unfinished business.

What could that be? Stay tuned for part two.

Tvor

Written by Chris Fewtrell and Directed by Laurence Moody

Audrey and family have gathered round Penny in the Rovers to hear what she can tell them about Lewis - or rather Hugh, as she tells them she knew him as. Nearby, Norris and Gloria are gagging to know what's being said. Norris bets a pound to a penny she's one of Lewis's fancy pieces while Ken tells him to stop staring.

Audrey looks a bit shocked when Penny tells them she was engaged to Hugh/Lewis although as she says, the ring was no more real than the promise that went with it. She's just told them that Huwis scarpered with ten grand of her money when Gloria appears with a cloth in her hand, ready to earwig on the conversation. Audrey suggests they should all go over the road where they can talk in private.

In the cab office, Steve is pouring his heart out ... to the pinata he brought back from Spain. As he tells the brightly-coloured donkey, he knows how it feels: he's also spent his life having people beating him with a stick, trying to see what they can get out of him. Then Michelle comes in, sobbing her heart out. She tells Steve that Ryan is leaving for keeps and that he and Tracy are moving to Glasgow. Steve says he doesn't care what Tracy says, she's not taking his daughter anywhere or Ryan, come to that.

Over in the cafe, Mary is entering into the spirit of her Russian night, stirring her stroganoff and singing Russian folk songs.

Back in the Rovers Norris is beside himself with excitement over the gossip he has to share with Emily, Rita and Dennis. He tells them how a woman came in earlier with news about Lewis. Dennis asks what the news was and Norris explains he doesn't know any more because Audrey and party went over the road. "Call those jungle drums?" asks Dennis. "I think you're a couple of bongos light." Rita tears Norris off a strip for sticking his nose in Audrey's business.

Behind the bar, Stella and Gloria are talking about the number of customers. Stella bemoans the fact that once the cafe opens for the latest theme night, the Rovers will empty out. Gloria tells her not to worry, as soon as they win Pub of the Year, things will start to look up. She says all they to do now is keep a look out for the mystery drinker and make sure they get five star treatment and a few free drinks. We see Dennis pick up on this last comment and a gleam come into his eye. When Stella goes over to serve him he asks her how the Pub of the Year is going. Stella reveals what a nightmare her mother's being and how she turned the place in to a B and B the minute Stella's back was turned. She tells Dennis she's been invited to Menorca for a week but daren't go in case her mother opens up an 18 hole golf course in her absence. Dennis says it would be a shame for her to give up the chance for a break and Stella's delighted when he says that he and the gang will keep an eye on the place for her while she goes away.

Audrey and party are now round at Gail's where Penny is telling them how she met Huwis. It sounds like a horribly familiar story. He charmed her into starting a new life with him abroad and suggested they took £10,000 in cash as a deposit on a property in France. After they arrived he nipped out for a baguette and never came back. That was five years ago and the next time Penny saw him was on the train in Lisle. Penny says that if the train had moved as fast as Huwis did when he saw her they would have been home in twenty minutes. Penny says she got the next train home and then she opened the Gazette and there he was again. She says he's there today because she doesn't want anyone else wasting any tears on him and that Audrey should know him for what he is - a baddun.

In the Rovers, Lloyd and Mandy are discussing Jenna. They seem on very relaxed terms with each other but Mandy points out that this evening has just been the beginning and they have a lot of issues to deal with. For instance, she asks, are they going to have spring rolls or satay chicken? "Maybe I'm not ready for this kind of responsibility after all," jokes Lloyd.

Tracy and Ryan have gone round to tell Ken about their plans. He's understandably shocked that they intend to go to Glasgow and points out they'll have no support up there. Just then there's a knock on the door. While Ken goes to answer it Ryan tells Tracy the sooner they go the better but she says she doesn't want to be rushed and that her Dad's right, they've got loads to sort out. Steve and Michelle have arrived, to have an 'adult conversation rather than a row', according to Steve although judging from Michelle's attitude that doesn't seem likely to happen.

Back at Gail's, Penny is starting to get tearful as she continues to talk about Huwis. She says she doesn't know whether he got bored or whether he was planning to do what he did all along. Audrey tells her that she's really sorry for what happened and wherever Lewis is, she's sure he'd be sorry, too. Penny is incredulous and asks Audrey if she's been listening to a word she's said. Audrey is insistent that Lewis is a changed man but David tells her to get real. Meanwhile Nick is the calm voice of reason and thanks Penny for letting them know she saw Lewis but Penny advises Audrey not to make her mistake and tells her he's not worth it.

Over at Ken and Deirdre's, Ryan can't understand why Michelle doesn't want them to move to Glasgow. Tracy and Michelle continue to trade insults then Tracy puts her arms around Ryan and says Michelle can insult her all she likes but it's not going to make her change the way she feels about him. Tracy tells Steve that they haven't got a choice. "Yes you have," says Steve. He tells Tracy and Ryan that he wants what's best for Amy, and for the baby. He's having to think on his feet and tells Tracy and Ryan that he and Michelle want them to move in with them. Michelle looks at Steve in horror and Tracy starts to smile.

Penny has now left and the family are discussing Lewis. Nick is still on Audrey's side but David points out that Lewis was a male escort who got it on with Deirdre Barlow in order to rip off the bookies so this latest news is hardly a revelation. Audrey isn't about to be swayed from her belief that Lewis loves her and makes her happier than she's ever been. "So where is he now?" asks Gail. She points out that Audrey has been out of her mind with worry and Lewis hasn't even phoned her. Eventually Audrey says that Gail is right and says that if Lewis cares so little for her then she's done fretting over him. She picks up her coat and announces she's going to Emily's birthday meal. David says Gail had better go with her. She's reluctant but Nick says she'd better go in order to protect her mother from the Weatherfield branch of the KGB, a.k.a. Norris.

Back at Ken's, Steve and Michelle are having a desperate, whispered argument out in the hallway. Michelle can't believe what Steve's just done and says she'd rather have a Bengal flaming tiger move into her flat than Tracy. Steve tells Michelle they'll work it out somehow. It's the only plan they've got and they have to stop them moving away.

Steve and Michelle go back into the living room to tell Tracy and Ryan the good news: they can move in. Tracy insists on hearing the offer from Michelle herself. "Are you happy, love?" asks, Tracy. "Oh, I'm over the moon," replies Michelle sarcastically.

Gail and Audrey have arrived at the cafe where the Russian evening is in full swing. Emily and Rita are delighted to see her and Dennis offers her a drink but Norris dives straight in and asks what "that woman" in the pub had to say. He claims he's only showing a bit of neighbourly concern but Audrey retorts that they're all aware of his concern and she'd surprised he isn't circling overhead. Rita tells her to pay no attention to Norris. Audrey tells Norris that the woman was just a friend of Lewis's who wanted to know the latest. Before Norris has a chance to ask more, Dennis rescues Audrey by proposing a toast to Emily.

At Lloyd's, he and Mandy are waiting for Jenna. Lloyd's hopeful she's just been delayed and offers to ring her but Mandy knows she's changed her mind. She tells Lloyd that she's obviously had time to think and decided that she can't forgive her. Mandy says she doesn't deserve a second chance but Lloyd replies that of course she does and then adds that he does, too. He tells Mandy she must know that she was the one and that she then became the one who got away. But Mandy doesn't think it can work between them all. She tells Lloyd that she's already hurt too many people that she loves and she's going to return to Nottingham.

Over at Michelle's flat she and Steve are awaiting the arrival of Tracy and Ryan. He's drying up and Michelle suggests he should hide the sharp knives. Steve says he knows what Tracy's done in the past but he doesn't think she needs to worry that much. Michelle says it's not Tracy she'd worried about - it's what she might do. The doorbell rings and Tracy swans in while Ryan struggles with all their luggage. As Tracy points out, she's pregnant and she couldn't possibly lift anything. She flops down on the sofa, asks if the kettle's on and says she takes two sugars in hers. As Steve catches sight of Michelle's face he drapes the tea-towel over the knife rack.

Back at the cafe, everyone's in high spirits, thanks to the vodka which they've brought along. As Emily's cake arrives and they all sing happy birthday, talk turns to their men and Kirsty says "let's be honest, none of them are lookers." Fiz shoots her a venomous look and asks her what's wrong with Tyrone. Kirsty wants to know what's rattled Fiz's cage so she tells her she shouldn't be slagging Ty off, especially when he's stuck in the house babysitting.

Norris is still harping on about the woman in the pub. Rita tells him to leave it but Audrey's had enough so she puts him straight and informs him that Penny was on old flame of Lewis's, he ripped her off for thousands then when he saw her on the Eurostar he did a bunk. She finishes by telling everyone that they were right and she's a silly old fool. She apologises to Emily and then leaves, despite Rita's pleas for her to stay. "Are you satisfied now?" Rita asks Norris. He can't understand what he's done so Rita tells him that he's done nothing but grill Audrey all evening. She says she's surprised he didn't put Audrey on the griddle and have done with it.

Out in the street, Gail is running after Audrey. She tells her mam that she's sorry so Audrey replies that Gail's not as sorry as she is. She asks how she could have allowed herself to be sucked in again after what he put her through. As they arrive back at the house and Audrey is telling Gail that she's never going to trust another man for as long as she lives the camera pulls back and we see Lewis sitting behind the wheel of a car across the street. He watches Audrey go into the house, starts the engine and then drives away.

Karen

Audrey hasn't slept well and Gail less than tactfully asks her whether she's checked the bank account. That doesn't go down too well and an angry Audrey stomps off to work.

Outside, Lewis watches from a car as the stomping Audrey barges into Mary because she's so angry she s not looking where she s going.

Dennis admires Gloria's window-cleaning skills outside the pub, making sure she notices the copy of Lancashire Leisure he s carrying before saying he'll be back later to sample her wares. Now that s more like the old Dennis...er... the young Dennis!

Tracy's made breakfast for Steve and Michelle and is being very very nice to them. I once worked with someone who reckoned the best way to annoy your enemy was to be really nice to them. I think she trained Tracy, who's being very nice indeed. Steve and Michelle clearly haven't slept very well and it doesn't help when Tracy tells them what lovely grandparents they re going to make for her baby.

Lloyd tells Eileen he's giving up. Jenna didn't turn up last night and now Mandy's talking about going back to Nottingham. Eileen tells him he has to be prepared to fight for what he wants.

Gail calls in at the salon, where Audrey tells her she's checked the bank account and there's not a penny been moved. Gail's unimpressed. That doesn't alter the fact that he's done a runner and left you to save your own skin. Audrey's had enough. She orders Gail out of the salon and tells David to take an early break. Back by the basins she picks up her bag and looks at a picture of her and Lewis together. Tears in her eyes, she rips in it half and tears the Lewis half into many pieces. The salon door opens. Thinking it's a customer she straightens up and goes around the corner only to find Lewis standing there.

Mandy's ironing up in Lloyd's flat. Lloyd has an ironing board. Who knew? She asks him if everything is all right. Not really, he says. He tells her that seeing her again has brought back all the feelings of 30 years ago. If she cares anything for him, she should stay. Mandy tells him she cares for him but their situation was messy 30 years ago and it's messy now. I wish things were different but they re not.

In the cafe, Mary is very tired but is also wired on three coffees and tells Anna she can't have another because too much caffeine makes her tetchy. Anna says it's just as well they've finished with the theme nights because it's too tiring. But then Kylie comes in. Not to buy or say anything, apparently. Just to fix Mary with one of those Kylie stares. She tells Mary she looks tired and Mary accuses her of spying on Nick's behalf. If you don't want refreshment, perhaps you would like to leave. Kylie goes, but she's got Mary's dander up! Make me another coffee, Anna. Yes, another theme night is on its way, this time Moroccan.

Lewis is sorry. That's all very well but Audrey wants to hear more. He tells her the truth about seeing Penny on the train and panicking. He thought she would alert the police so he fled. He tells Audrey what he did to Penny and discovers Audrey already knows this because Penny has been round looking for him. Lewis looks very worried by this revelation.

Gloria's put posies on all the tables ready for her not-so-mystery drinker. Stella's trying to take her through the list of how to run the pub while Stella's away and Gloria's trying to get Stella to notice the posies but they're talking past each other. Stella goes off to call a cab just as Dennis comes in. He doesn't want his usual today. He's like to see what other wares the pub has to offer, he tells Stella.

Lewis admits Penny had every right to track him down. Audrey's so tense and upset she's in a bit of a tidying frenzy and Lewis asks her to stop. He tells her he loves her and wants to be with her and nobody else. He knows he's messed up before but the future is what matters. He tells her they could go away together, right now.

Gail and David wait outside the salon. David can't get in because when Audrey hustled him out he left his keys behind. He can see them through the window. Gail's about to ring Audrey again when she comes up to them, apologising and saying she went for a drive to clear her head. She lets David in and tells Gail she's decided to shut up shop for the day. She apologises to Gail and hugs her. She's got that tearful tremble in her voice suggesting she s having trouble controlling her emotions.

In the taxi office, Lloyd tells Steve and Eileen what Mandy said. Eileen suggests he talk to Jenna. Steve thinks Mandy isn't Lloyd s usual type (after all, the last one was a bed-hopping pole dancer). Lloyd's not sure whether to be offended by this but Eileen assures him that Mandy is nice and normal.

Nick's furious when Kylie reports back though she left before Mary announced another theme night, so I'm not quite sure why he's angry. Audrey comes in and tells him how proud she is of him. She leaves him an envelope to be given to David later. After she's gone, Kylie says she's worried and opens the envelope. Inside are the salon keys.

Mary's been buying the ingredients for a lamb and apricot tagine and explains Moroccan food to Beth. Anna's just annoyed that she's been left on her own while Mary's off shopping.

Steve chats to Tracy in the cafe. She tells him how much she loves Ryan and how much they re looking forward to having a baby together. All this is overheard by Beth. Tracy asks if Steve and Michelle are OK and after a significant pause, Steve says it is. Tracy's pleased to hear it.

Stella's cab is here but she's not leaving until she's had a word with her mother, who seems to be flirting a little too much with Mr Rita. Gloria doesn't mention Dennis being the mystery drinker but just says she does it out of habit.

Gail's at home when David comes to tell her that Audrey's been canceling all her appointments for next week. Clients seem to think the salon is closing down. Nick arrives and shows him the keys. They're the master keys for the salon and Audrey doesn't usually let them out of her sight. There s a note for David, asking him to take care of the salon. Gail tries to ring Audrey but the phone keeps going straight to voicemail. They decide to go straight to Grasmere Drive.

Beth stops Tracy in the street. She overheard what Tracy said to Steve and can't believe Tracy would let herself get pregnant by Ryan. Tracy admits she s not pregnant but has said she is in order to wind up Steve and Michelle.

Dennis thinks he should be making tracks but Gloria persuades him to stay with the offer of a beer on the house.

Jenna comes into the pub to see Lloyd. She tells him she had every intention of meeting Mandy last night and even got dressed but then couldn't do it. It felt as if she was being disloyal to her dad. Lloyd tells her to act her age (28) instead of behaving like a ten-year-old. She's annoyed by this and he says she's welcome to walk out of the pub but if she does then she won't be seeing him again. She agrees she'll meet Mandy in the cafe. After all, that's neutral ground.

Lewis and Audrey have their bags all packed and in the hall. Audrey's reluctant to go after all, they don't even know where they re going. She's not sure she wants to leave everything she knows and everyone she loves. The door opens as Gail uses her spare key and in come Nick and David as well. They see the bags and then they see Lewis. Before any shouting can start there s a ring at the door and Audrey goes to answer it. It's Penny. She goes through to the other room to confront Lewis. I'm so sorry have I called at a bad time? she asks.

The end of the first episode.
Margaret Carr

Written by: Julie Jones
Directed by: Laurence Moody

This episode starts where the last one left off, in Audrey's living room, and Lewis looking as if he wishes the ground would open up and swallow him. Penny confronts him, and tells him that it wasn't just the money he took from her. She had loved him, and truly believed they had a future together, and he left her not only penniless, but without her confidence and self respect. All Lewis can tell her is that he is truly very sorry, but she throws his apologies back at him, telling him that his cheap sentiments don't work on her any more.

In the Rovers, Gloria asks Eva if she will do a couple of hours behind the bar as she has to concentrate on catering to Dennis and his every whim. When she looks puzzled, she goes on to explain that Dennis is the mystery drinker, whom they have to impress in order to win the contest.

Speaking of the devil, Dennis lurches up to the bar, more than three sheets to the wind on all the free booze that Gloria has been plying him with. He only has to mention that all this liquor on an empty stomach is not good for him, and she immediately suggests he have a hotpot - on the house of course, along with yet another pint to wash it down. While she has been pandering to Dennis, another punter has been trying in vain to get her attention. He finally catches her eye, and tells her that the men's toilet has run out of paper. She snarls at him to let it drip dry like nature intended, she is far too busy catering to Dennis to bother with such matters. Eva overhears and is horrified at the way she spoke to a customer, she immediately apologises on behalf of her Gran, explaining that she hasn't been very well lately, but she would fetch him a roll of triple quilted immediately.

Norris comes in looking for Dennis, and is disgusted to find him as drunk as a skunk. He reminds Dennis that he is supposed to be helping Rita at the Cash & Carry, and Nellie Craddock has been waiting in vain for her usual Friday quarter of Dolly Mixtures, and is not best pleased that he hasn't yet picked them up. Not getting any sense out of Dennis, he finally leaves in high dudgeon.

Back at Audrey's, Penny is telling Lewis - or Hugh as she knew him - that he is going to pay for what he did to her. She tells Audrey that she did the right thing in letting her know where he was. Penny asks Audrey if she wants to phone the police, or she will do it. Audrey replies that there is no need for that, she suggests that there is another way to sort all this out, and asks her to bear with her for a moment.

Michelle is finding work to keep her in the office as long as possible. Rob guesses that she is reluctant to go home, and she agrees, saying that having Tracy move in with them is the worst idea Steve has ever had. Rob points out that there is no pleasing her, she didn't like it when Ryan was living at Sally's, she hated it when he was in Glasgow, so at least now she knows he won't be going anywhere all the time Tracy is there.

Beth comes into Roy's Rolls to speak to Tracy, who is sitting at one of the tables, much to Mary's chagrin, because they are closing, and trying to get the premises dolled up for Moroccan Night. Beth assures her it will be quick, and plonks herself down next to Tracy. She tells her she has been worrying about her and her fake pregnancy all afternoon, and asks her what exactly she intends to do in nine months time - tell everyone she left the sprog on a No. 10 bus? Tracy admits she hadn't thought things through that far, that she only said she was pregnant on the spur of the moment just to annoy Michelle. While Beth doesn't blame her for that, with Michelle being the smuggest cow on earth, she questions whether she is being fair to Ryan. Tracy points out that this is war, and you have to expect some people to get hurt. Beth shakes her head, and tells her she is hard as nails.

As Mary drains her coffee cup, Anna cautions that she has possibly had too much of that, as she appears to be flying already. Mary mutters that she really needs to if they are going to pull off yet another theme evening. She tells Anna to pull out her creative side, and start draping the fabric all over the cafe in a sensual, magical way, with the finished result like the inside of a Bedouin tent. Anna is not convinced, and seems to think by doing that, it will look more like a tart's boudoir. Mary will not be brought down however, and insists that the finished effect should give one the idea that an inquisitive camel could peek round the door at any moment. Anna is dismayed that she has to do all that with a few bits of rag off the market.

Audrey comes back into the room, and to Gail's utter dismay, begins to write a cheque.

Eileen is hanging up the phone in Streetcars office, telling a despondent Steve that Mrs. Braithwaite wants picking up from Bingo. He doesn't want to do it, he is too depressed at having to share a home with Tracy. He tells Eileen that he knows full well that she is up to something, because he has noticed that when he and Michelle are around, she is all over Ryan, but he has watched her without her knowledge, and it seems as if she can hardly stand to be around him when she thinks nobody is looking. He is sure she is only with him because it causes problems for his relationship with Michelle. Eileen points out that as low as Tracy is, surely she wouldn't go as far as to have a baby with someone purely out of spite. He leaves, saying he plans to put an end to this once and for all - and I guess Mrs. Braithwaite is going to have to wait!

The transformation of Roy's Rolls has taken place, and both Mary and Anna are in long tent like frocks and hats which are not unlike those favoured by the late great Tommy Cooper. Anna is on the phone with Roy, and is assuring him that everything is just fine, and that they are just closing up for the day. She explains the Moroccan music as just being the radio. After hanging up, she tells Mary that she hates lying to him, but Mary just brushes it off with "Needs must when the devil drives" which could possibly mean she is referring to herself as the devil, as she is certainly behind the wheel on this one.

The punters are streaming into the cafe, all dressed very exotically, ready for their Eastern delights. Beth and Kirk are there along with Izzy and Julie, which is an odd foursome, but there you go.

Two more customers are Lloyd and Mandy, who are waiting for Jenna to join them. Mandy is very nervous as to how it will go. Jenna arrives, and Mary gushes a welcome, telling her that she wishes peace be upon her. I bet Mandy is hoping for that too.

Audrey is asking Penny for her surname. Penny protests that she can't realise that he took her for ten thousand pounds, and David agrees that this is total madness. Audrey quietly asks Penny once again for her surname, and is told it is Thornley. As she writes out the cheque, her family once again try to stop her, reminding her how many years of hard work it has taken her to earn that money. Lewis too tells her his conscience won't let her do it. Penny snaps that he doesn't have a conscience.

As she hands Penny the cheque, she asks for her word that this will be an end to the matter, that she won't go to the police. Penny asks how she knows it won't bounce, so Audrey tells her that if it does, she can then go to the police, and Lewis will go to prison. Penny shakes her head, and says "My God, he's really done a brilliant job on you!". Audrey tells her that he is the man she loves, the man she wants to spend the rest of her life with. Penny laughs, and asks her if she really thinks she is the exception? That he won't do the same thing to her? Audrey replies that she really does think that. With another laugh, Penny leaves.

Michelle is getting a meal ready, and when Steve comes in, she apologises for being so crabby earlier, tells him she loves him and gives him a kiss. Tracy comes out of the bedroom, and has a sarcastic remark to make about the candle light in the room, telling Michelle that you can't beat it for flattering the older woman. Michelle bites her tongue, and tells her that her and Steve's meal is almost ready, and asks if they are off to the Rovers now. Tracy tells her that she is sorry, but is feeling too queasy from her pregnancy to go anywhere. Michelle starts to put up a fight, when unexpectedly Steve takes Tracy's side, telling Michelle it's a good idea for them to stay, as they have things to talk about. Suddenly, Steve dumps Michelle, just like that! He tells her that things are just not working between them, and it's over. Michelle looks devastated, and Tracy looks shocked, but positively thrilled.

The Platt/Tilsley family are still giving Audrey a hard time about writing the cheque. David wants her to phone the bank immediately and cancel it. Nick tells her she shouldn't have to pay for Lewis' mistakes, and Gail asks her how many more women are going to come out of the woodwork, and is she going to pay them all off? All valid points, but Audrey doesn't want to hear any of it. She tells them she could easily have left today with Lewis, and turned her back on everything and everyone, but she paid Penny off so she could stay here with her man and her family, therefore she doesn't want to hear another word about it.

Leanne comes into the Bistro, and has a go at Kylie for reading a magazine on the job. Kylie points out that she has to do something or she will die of boredom, business is so quiet. Leanne tells her there is always something that needs doing. Leanne remarks that Roy's Rolls had been buzzing when she walked by, and is worried that Mary might be working her way round the globe, which will only be bad for their trade.

Talking of Roy's, it is indeed buzzing. The fully booked restaurant is full of very happy customers. Mary brings around some Moroccan mint tea, which reminds Kirk that he used to make mint tea when he was a boy. Julie is impressed, saying that was quite sophisticated for a small boy. Encouraged, Kirk tells them how he made it, that he used to put his used chewing gum in water, and let it fester for a few days, "Quite tasty it were!". The others were not quite convinced about that.

On the other side of the room, Mandy and Jenna are making their peace. They apologise to each other, and Jenna explains that it had just been one thing thrown at her after another. But she now had thought it all through, and was coming to terms with it all. She tells Mandy that in getting to know Lloyd, she likes him, and can see what it was she saw in him all those years ago.

Michelle is in tears, begging Steve to stay so they can talk it through. Steve tells her there is no point, his mind is made up. Ryan is uncomfortable being a witness to it, and suggests to Tracy they go out, or at least take off to the bedroom to give them some privacy. However, Tracy is enjoying it far too much to leave, and tells Ryan she really doesn't feel well, and has to lie down, there and then on the sofa. Michelle rounds on her, telling her it is all her fault, that all her lying and scheming is at the bottom of everything. Tracy protests that she has done nothing. Steve mutters that he cannot go on living like this, and leaves. Michelle is sobbing, Ryan looks sad, and Tracy looks delighted.

Back in the Rovers, Eva is still trying to placate the punter that Gloria insulted. He is telling her that her staff needs better training. Eva explains that she is not really staff, but is her Gran, and although she tries, bless her, it can't be easy when you are not all there. The man is very concerned now, and tells Eva he is very sorry to hear that about the poor woman. Eva tells him that she is family, and you can't put family out to pasture just because they are knocking on a bit, and besides, the regulars know how she is, and make allowances for her. The man is now very impressed, and tells Eva that is a very laudable sentiment. He tells her how refreshing it is for a pub to have that sense of community, and although he shouldn't be telling her this, he will be putting in a very good word, and with that, he gives Eva a knowing wink. She winks back, knowing now that her suspicions are correct, this is the secret drinker, not Dennis.

Eva goes over to the bar, and tries to extricate Gloria, who is fawning all over Dennis. She is not to be put off though, and tells Gloria she is busy. Yes, she is very busy stroking his drunken face, and asking him what else she can bring him. Just then Rita walks in, and is furious to find Gloria draped all over her husband. She rants at her, and Gloria explains that it is all because Dennis is helping them to win the competition. Eva finally gets a word in edgeways, and tells her that it's not Dennis, but the man she was so rude to. A disgusted Rita tells Gloria she is a ridiculous woman. Dennis agrees, just as he passes out cold on the floor.

Audrey and Lewis are alone now, and Lewis tells her how much he loves her, and what an amazing woman she is. He goes on to tell her that he doesn't know how, but he will find a way to repay every penny to her. She tells him she isn't worried about the money, that this time yesterday she thought she had lost him forever, that she has had a glimpse of what her life would be without him, and she couldn't bear it. He kisses her tenderly.

Mandy is thanking Lloyd for arranging her reconciliation with Jenna. She then goes on to tell him that she thinks they are so lucky to be given this second chance with each other. Lloyd looks at her surprised, so to confirm that she is saying what he is hoping she is saying, she moves in and kisses him.

The Moroccan evening is over, and the very satisfied customers are on their way home. Mary is still buzzing from all the caffeine she has consumed, and won't let them go without the Moroccan custom of leaving a tip.

Anna is knackered, and tells Mary she can't go on with these long hours. Mary is still on a high though, and is busy planning the next theme night. Anna is horrified, and asks if she has been listening to her. She screams at Mary that she cannot go on working day and night, it's not fair on her or Faye, and she wants her life back! Mary is in a trance though, plotting and planning the next one.

There is a family conference going on at the Bistro. They are picking over the bones of Audrey's decision to pay Lewis' ten thousand pound debt. Gail has decided that Penny and Lewis are in a scam together. That it was all a scheme to part Audrey with her money. The others are skeptical, but Gail is sure she has Lewis Archer's number, she is on to him, and is going to set about proving it.

Christine Warren

Written by Mark Wadlow Directed by Nicky Higgens

Mandy and Lloyd have had a lovely night together and cuddle over the kettle in the morning. They are interrupted by Steve who has slept in the spare bedroom. Mandy makes herself scarce and Steve tells Lloyd he's dumped Michelle.

Lewis is ready to look everyone in the eye and hold his head up in the face of the neighbourhood kangaroo court. He's going to see Nick as well and is going to find himself a job.

Steve tells Lloyd that he and Michelle rowed and is very nonchalant about it. Lloyd doesn't understand this attitude. He really doesn't seem bothered at all. Anyway he's off to fetch his stuff.

Audrey and Lewis arrive in the salon to David's Death Stare. Lewis is off to pursue his errands and kisses her goodbye. David outlines his theory that Lewis is in on it with Penny. Bah!

Ryan and Tracy approach a very downcast Michelle. Tracy pretends sympathy, having had the painful experience herself. Michelle insists it was just a heat of the moment thing and they'll sort it. Tracy isn't so sure. Michelle points a claw at Tracy and informs her that this isn't about her (oh yes it is but she doesn't know it). She reckons she and Steve just have to talk and they can work out the problems. But Steve arrives just then to get his things. She tries to reason with him, watched by Tracy and Ryan. Steve is cool with her and says he won't be long.

David has been mithering Audrey about the conspiracy theory. Audrey doesn't want to know. She shuts him down and insists that Lewis has been honest and will pay her back.

Ryan is comforting Michelle with Tracy as well. Steve comes out and they get into it again. He's visibly upset that she's heartbroken but puts on a cold demeanor and says some rather hard things. It's upsetting Ryan too, that his mother is hurt and when Steve says he was only helping out with Ryan to get off with her, Ryan charges at him. Tracy is just loving this. Michelle asks for her key back and turns to her son for comfort.

Tommy hobbles into the cafe where Anna is rushed off her feet. Owen and Gary are at the counter. Tommy is planning to paint in the flat so Gary goes back out with him to the van to get the tins of paint. Anna is having trouble keeping up because Mary was supposed to go to the cash and carry and hasn't been seen yet this morning. Nick returns his breakfast as a bad job just as Mary arrives. Nick thinks they need to concentrate on being a good caff, not wasting all their energies on the theme nights. Mary, of course, is resentful and accuses Nick of being afraid of the competition. He accuses them of running Roy's business into the ground. Mary is unrepentant.

Michelle stalks into the factory and hollers at the workers. In the office Rob ask if she's ok but she doesn't tell him what's wrong.

In the cab office, Steve arrives. Lloyd is on the switch. He expresses sympathy. Steve then admits it was all a performance on his part and tells Lloyd the whole story, swearing him to secrecy. He did it to get Tracy to dump Ryan and then he'll get back with Michelle. Simple. Really? Lloyd thinks he's lost his tiny mind. Steve does regret that Michelle is upset but it had to be realistic or Tracy wouldn't have bought it. He also expresses his doubts about the pregnancy. Steve scuttles off to check on his plan.

Nick has told Kyle about Mary's fighting words (i.e. they're making money, Nick is not). Gloria arrives to get a few bowls of olives to upscale the bar to make it nice so there will good comments on the cards. She admits to Nick they've noticed a little dip in trade since the theme nights have been on but not as much as the Bistro as food in the evenings isn't really what people come in for anyway. She decides to stay for a cappuccino so she's at the bar when Lewis comes in. Gail comes sweeping out behind him. Between Gail and Kylie, you can see this little interview is not going to go well. Not with that Greek chorus calling from the wings.

Steve is in the flat with Tracy, having pretended he forgot his razor. She figures out that excuse and admits she's chuffed that he and Michelle have split up. She brags that she and Ryan are strong, and she is really into him. Steve is stymied once again. Not going as well as he'd hoped.

Instead of taking Lewis into his office, Nick is sitting with him at a table where all and sundry, (Gail and Gloria and Kylie) can see and hear. Lewis apologizes with Gail's sarcasm and accusations echoing over his shoulder. Nick can't hire him back. Lewis understands, shakes his hand and leaves. Gloria has taken all this in without a word. She ascertains from Nick that Lewis was good at his job and people spent more money when he was serving them. Gloria is thoughtful.

Michelle is brooding in the office. Rob comes in when she doesn't show any interest in business talk, he asks again. She admits Steve has dumped her. Rob shuts the office door on a couple of curious gossip-seekers. Michelle sobs and Rob says Steve is an idiot. He's very supportive and drags her out to lunch.

Mary has brought in a tray of food from the cash and carry. One of the items is a huge rope of garlic. Anna knows something's up. Mary admits there's another theme night tonight. French Night! No NO NO.... Anna objects strenuously. Mary says she's already fully booked (How? I can't understand how she can plan it, book it, buy it, cook it all in one day). Anna is horrified to find out that Mary is going to clear the furniture out of the way in the flat upstairs and fit a few tables in there as well, clearly invading the Croppers' personal space.

Michelle is glum while she and Rob share a bottle of wine. Michelle is over analyzing things and wonders if there's something Steve isn't telling her, like if he has someone else. She can't understand it otherwise. Rob takes her hand and starts complimenting her and telling her how great she is just as Steve arrives to pick up a taxi fare. He notices straight away and is affronted that Rob is making moves on Michelle, or so it looks. Didn't take her long! Michelle shouts at Steve, it's none of his business. Nick ushers Steve out with his customers.

Mary and Anna are in the flat while Mary sees the set up in her mind. She pays no attention to Anna's arguments and accuses Anna of pulling rank. Anna points out she's in charge, she's allowed to pull rank. She won't have it but Mary says it's happening, like it or not. Anna declares she's not helping her and she can't do it alone.

Tommy is in the middle of painting when Tina comes in and spoils Tommy's surprise. She's tickled he thought of it. She tells him she's got the night off. The door buzzes and interrupts their snogging. It's Gary come to help with the painting.

Lewis comes into the Rovers for a drink. David is there and wastes no time having a go. Lewis doesn't rise to it. Gloria overhears David say Lewis will never get a job around here and she offers him a job in the pub!

Steve gets back to the cab office. Lloyd says the clients he picked up called to complain about his driving. He was upset! He paces he office while ranting about his plan going pear shaped.

What's Steve going to do? Stay tuned to find out.

Tvor

Written by Mark Wadlow and directed by Nicky Higgens

Steve is sharing his woes with Lloyd in the cab office. When Lloyd points out that Tracy's a smart cookie and that he'll never get one over on her, Steve has a light bulb moment. He realises he's been barking up the wrong tree and that Ryan's the one he should be working on.

Kylie's browsing the magazines in the Kabin when Mary stomps in, grumbling to Norris that Anna's put French night in jeopardy. She tells him that Anna's walked out and she can't possible cope on her own. Norris thinks she should give up on the idea of theme nights and Kylie joins in by telling Mary she should leave it to the professionals. But Mary's not a quitter and asks Norris if he'll help her out. He doesn't look keen until Kylie tells Mary you can't turn just anyone into a waiter. Norris informs Kylie that he trained in silver service at a poncy French restaurant before moving to the world of stationery. At this revelation Mary tells him he has to help and Norris finally agrees.

In the Rovers Gloria is offering Lewis a job as a barman. David is hovering in the background, objecting on the grounds that employing Lewis would be an insult to his victims. But Gloria informs David she can hire who she likes and tells Lewis he can start straight away and that she thinks he'll be a great asset. Just then Audrey comes in and is a bit taken aback when Lewis asks if she'd like a gin and tonic and then goes round to the other side of the bar to get it for her. Gloria informs Audrey that Lewis comes highly recommended by her grandson. "Not that one," she says, nodding at David. "The nice one".

Over at the Bistro, Mary is togged up in her French chef's outfit, issuing instructions to Norris. He doesn't look too happy, especially when she tells him that he has to call her chef and then makes him have a practice run. Then the first customers start to arrive: Kirk and Beth, clutching bottles of wine, followed by Rita and Dennis. They look surprised when Norris asks if they'd prefer to sit upstairs.

Back in the Rovers, Lewis is having his training while Audrey watches from the other side of the bar. Gloria tells him he's a natural and that she could listen to him talk all night and then, turning to Audrey, comments that he could charm the birds from the trees. Just then Eva walks in, takes one look at Lewis behind the bar and asks her gran what he's doing there.

At Tina and Tommy's, Gary is helping with the decorating. Tina comes home with some pizzas and invites Gary to stay and join them. Tommy doesn't look too thrilled, especially when Gary starts talking about the surrogacy and reminds them that Izzy's having her eggs harvested tomorrow.

David's in the Rovers buying a drink from Lewis. He tells him he's been short changed and says he gave him a £10,000 note. "Oh no," says David, "that was me gran." Audrey says she's not going to listen to any more nonsense then tells Lewis she's going home. As she leaves she passes Dr. Carter who has come in to see Gloria. We watch Lewis listening in as the concerned doctor takes Gloria through to the back.

Steve goes round to see Ryan. He says he's glad he's on his own because he wants to explain the real reason he split with Michelle. Steve tells Ryan that he and his mum weren't happy with his relationship with Tracy but once she got pregnant Steve really admired the fact that Ryan stood by her and now he thinks they're really good together. He says the problem is that Michelle doesn't agree with him.

In the cafe the relationship between Mary and Norris is strained to say the least as he rushes to keep up. Rita and Dennis ask for a bottle of wine but Norris tells them they don't have a licence and it's bring-your-own so Dennis goes off to the corner shop to get some red to go with their steak.

We return to Michelle's flat where Steve is telling Ryan that if he's going to give him his backing he needs to know he's in it for the long haul. Ryan reassures Steve that he's really into Tracy and he even considered asking her to marry him. Steve visibly perks up at this point. He tells Ryan that if he got engaged to Tracy they could annul their marriage. Ryan asks if Steve thinks that's what Tracy wants. He says it would be her dream and suggests Ryan should do it properly and get down on one knee in front of everyone. Ryan looks really happy and thanks Steve. "Any time," he replies.

In the Bistro things are so slack that Kylie's been reduced to polishing the glasses. Nick tells her that he doesn't want to lose her but he's overstaffed and doesn't need her to work the evening shift. He apologises and Kylie tells him it's not his fault. "It's her," she says venomously, referring to Mary.

In the Rovers, Dr. Carter is just leaving. Eva asks Lewis whether Stella knows he's working there. He tells her that her gran gave him the job.

On the other side of the bar, Steve's filling Lloyd in on his plan. He says that if, as he suspects, Tracy isn't really pregnant then she won't agree to marry Ryan. Steve's pleased to note that Ken and Deirdre are in the pub. Just then Ryan comes through the door with Tracy who's complaining that she's not in the mood for a drink.

Lewis goes through to the back room to ask Gloria for some change. He's shocked to discover that she seems to have been crying. He looks embarrassed but she insists he stays and talks to her. She says she'd promised herself that she wouldn't tell anyone but he seems such a sensitive person. "Well, if you want to talk to someone ..." Lewis begins, hesitantly. He looks suitably askance when Gloria comes straight out with her secret and tells him that she's dying.

Back in the bar an excited-looking Ryan is getting a round of drinks in. Steve watches eagerly from the sidelines as Michelle comes in. She refuses a drink and just wants to know why she's been summoned. Judging by the worried expression on Tracy's face as Ryan pulls her to her feet, it looks as though she might have guessed what's about to happen. As Ryan starts to make a little speech, Michelle puts her head in her hands. Ryan gets down on one knee to propose, Tracy looks like she's about to throw up and Steve looks like he's won the lottery.

In the back room, Lewis is still trying to digest what Gloria's just told him. He tells Gloria she looks so well and asks if anything can be done. Without actually revealing what wrong with her, Gloria replies that Doctor Carter has just confirmed her worst fears. She then swears Lewis to secrecy, telling him that she wants her last days to be happy and so she's not even going to share the news with her family. Lewis looks very troubled at the burden of the secret she's asked him to keep.

We return to the bar where Michelle is telling Ryan he can't marry Tracy. He doesn't look too happy when Tracy says Michelle's right. She tells him that he's just a kid and he doesn't really know her. She wants to know why he chose to do it in such a public place and suggests they should go back to the flat to talk about it. Tracy tries suggesting that he's only done it because of the baby. "No!" exclaims Ryan. So Tracy tells him she's just found out she's not pregnant any more. In the background we see Steve punch the air in triumph and Michelle raises her eyes to heaven. She questions whether Tracy was ever pregnant in the first place and, from Tracy's reaction, it looks like she's hit the nail on the head. Ryan can't believe it, especially when Michelle tells him Tracy only used him to get back at her. Lloyd points out that Michelle still looks gutted but an ever-optimistic Steve is convinced she'll forgive him once she knows the real reason he behaved as he did.

In the cafe, Norris has turned from silver-service to surly service as he slaps two bowls of apple crumble down in front of Rita and Dennis. He informs them that they've run out of anything more French and stalks off when they ask for custard. Mary tears him off a strip and instructs him to go and see to the customers upstairs. It's the final straw for Norris who takes off his apron, hands it to Mary and tells her he's out of there.

Out in the street Kylie is staring at the outside of the cafe when David comes along and asks why she's not at work. She explains about the theme nights affecting business and how she could lose her job. Just then Norris comes hobbling across the street. He tells them that Mary has morphed into Gordon Ramsey and that the place is full of drunks. Kylie turns to David and tells him that they're not allowed to sell booze so Norris explains that they're not actually selling it but the customers have to take their own. After Norris walks away Kylie points out to David that the council don't know it's bring your own. He wants to know what the council have to do with it until Kylie explains that if someone were to tip them off they would be interested because it's against the law to sell alcohol without a licence.

Steve arrives on Michelle's doorstep clutching a small bunch of red roses but she's not about to welcome him back with open arms. He's keen to tell her how he was responsible for getting Ryan to propose to Tracy. Michelle is less than impressed when she points out that first he split them up and then he did the same to Ryan and Tracy. She can't quite believe what she's hearing when Steve tries explaining how he didn't really want to finish with her and only did it to try and force Tracy's hand. As Steve stands there clutching his flowers Michelle gives it to him with both barrels. It seems that his plan might not have been too successful after all as Michelle tells him that he's dumped, before slamming the door in his face.

Karen

We start with the fallout from the night before.

A morose Steve is sitting with Lloyd and Mandy. She says that if he wants Michelle back it's quite simple. "Grovel till your knees bleed!"

Over at her flat, Michelle tries to comfort Ryan, but he's angry, he knows she hated Tracy. She assures him she knew nothing about Steve's plan, and says she wants nothing more to do with him.

Tracy comes down to a very frosty reception from Ken and Deirdre. Deirdre wonders how she could do such a thing, making a fool of Ryan in front of everybody, just to get back at Steve. "And no thought of Amy in any of this," says Ken, "being dragged around from pillar to post." Tracy's attitude is that if she hadn't let him down, someone else would have done.

It's breakfast time at Audrey's, and Lewis is very thoughtful. Audrey wonders if Gail is responsible. Lewis confesses that Gail has been getting him down, but he brushes it aside and tells her that he's really enjoying his new job. Audrey jokes that he should watch out for Gloria, she's sweet on him. Lewis tells her he's finishing work at 5pm, so they decide to go to town. Audrey will book a table somewhere nice.

In the cafe, Mary is telling Anna about the evening before, and how successful it was, much to Kylie's annoyance. Anna is more worried about Roy's flat, but Mary assures her that he would never know anyone had been there. She adds that they made a tidy profit as well. She then tells Anna she's now preparing for a Greek night - and Anna is furious.

Kylie marches over to the table that David is sitting at, and tells him how annoyed she is. He asks if she rang the council, and she tells him she didn't. He says it's just as well, it wouldn't do to get on the wrong side of a nutter like that. Kylie is worried that her job at Nick's will finish if they're too quiet, and decides that Mary needs teaching a lesson.

Tommy and Tina meet Gary and Izzy outside in the street. They're off to the clinic for the egg harvesting, and Izzy is nervous, but excited.

Michelle is in the flat with Ryan when Steve rings on the door phone. She tells him to get lost, and slams the phone down. He keeps ringing, and she keeps telling him to go away.

Lewis is concerned about Gloria working in the pub, and tells her to go and out to the back and sit down. Checking that he's told no-one about her illness, she agrees.

Michelle eventually gives in to Steve's persistent ringing, and lets him in. She then slaps him and tells him to get out, she's not interested in his apology. He says he was an idiot and also apologises to Ryan, but Ryan just says he knows he's not come to see him, he just wants to get back in Michelle's bed. When Ryan finds out that Michelle also wanted him and Tracy to break up he gets angry and storms out, telling Michelle he'll never trust her again. Michelle turns to Steve. "Now look what you've done!" she yells.

Beth and Eileen are in the cafe. Beth compliments Mary on the previous evening.

Ken sees Ryan sitting out on the bench, and goes over to him. He tells him that he's sorry for what happened. "Yeah, thanks, bye," mutters Ryan. Ken wanders off.

The next person to come along is Sophie. She says she heard what happened and if he ever wants to talk..... He tells her that all he wants to do right now is drink. She says that never solved anything. Just then he sees Tracy coming along. A taxi comes down the road so he hails it and jumps in. "Where are you going?" asks Sophie. "As far away from here as I can," he says, so she jumps in the taxi too. "I'm coming with you," she says.

Steve tells Michelle he knows he messed things up, but points out that he did split Tracy and Ryan up. She tells him he's just about destroyed Ryan in the process. He argues that she would have done that if they'd stayed together. He says he's sorry he pretended to finish with her. She says if he really loved her he would never have done that. He says he does love her, and will do anything to put things right. If they split up, it will mean that Tracy has won, they'll be miserable and she'll be laughing. He swears he'll never hurt her again. "You are one infuriating lump of a man, you know," she says. "I've got other qualities," he says. She tells him he's got lots more groveling to do, and picks up the phone to call Ryan and find out where he is.

Ryan, meanwhile, is in a bar with Sophie. He sees it's his mother calling and doesn't answer. He orders more shots and leaves Sophie the money to pay, saying he's got a call to make. He goes off outside.

Gloria is in the back room of the Rovers with her feet up, reading a magazine and looking the picture of health. Lewis knocks on the door, so she hastily hides the magazine and leans her head back, closing her eyes. "Come in," she says. He says he's come to see how she is, he thinks she's extraordinary the way she's dealing with it all, and if she ever needs to unload, she knows where to find him. She asks what he's doing that evening, and he says that Audrey has booked a table, but if it would help her to chat he could put her off. She says it would help, it would help no end.

Back at the bar, Ryan is downing the shots and feeling sorry for himself. Just then someone catches his eye and he goes over. It's his drug dealer friend and a transaction takes place. Sophie watches, horrified.

Lewis goes to see Audrey at the salon and says he's had a call from a friend whose wife has walked out, he wants to go over and see him. He suggests they go for their meal tomorrow.

As Ryan becomes increasingly drunk and disorderly, Sophie struggles to get him out of the bar. She wants them to get a taxi home, telling him his mum will be worried.

Izzy is back at Anna's, feeling a little sore after her procedure. She and Gary explain to Owen what happens next, how the eggs are inseminated and then they'll know how many viable embryos they've got. Then it's over to Tina.

Ryan is marching along beside a very busy road, with Sophie imploring him to get a taxi and go home. He suddenly walks out into the traffic and crosses the road. Sophie shouts that he could have killed himself. "Who cares?" he shouts back.

At the cafe, Mary's Greek night is getting underway. Beth is sitting with Kirk, Eileen and Paul and she has brought her own bottle of Ouzo, which she shares among them. Mary watches, looking worried.

Ryan and Sophie are still beside the busy road. She manages to run across to him, and continues urging to get him to go home. "Fine, you win!" he shouts at her, and steps again into the traffic. She runs after him, there are headlights, and car horns sounding. "Ryan!" she screams, and shoves him forward out of the way, as the car hits her. She's flung up the bonnet and into the windscreen, before falling, limp and motionless, onto the road.

Anne Logan

Sophie's still lying in the street, so let's get a move on with the first Friday update.

Ryan's panicking. Sophie's hair is matted with blood. The driver who hit her has to call the ambulance because Ryan's no good for anything.

There's revelry at the Greek taverna. Mary smiles as she sees how much everyone's enjoying it, though she does warn Kirk, Eileen, Beth and Paul that they should drink in moderation. She clears away their starters and goes to fetch the mains. Eileen wonders whether she should pop home for a bottle of wine to go with the main course but Beth has plenty more Ouzo.

The other driver can't get a sensible word out of Ryan. He wants to know what they were playing at in the middle of the road. They're interrupted by the arrival of the ambulance. "I can't do this," says Ryan, running off through the stopped traffic.

In the Rovers, Tommy thinks Tina's being taken advantage of because she's working on her own. Gary and Owen come in. They've got out of Izzy's way because she's tired after her clinic visit. Tommy refuses their offer of a drink. Behind them, Kevin gets a phone call. Steve and Michelle come in, with Michelle fretting about Ryan's whereabouts. Kevin's phone call was from the hospital and he heads off after telling Steve what the call was about.

Maria and Jason are at home. Her arm is bandaged because she sprained it tripping over Liam's toys. Jason thinks it's a bit crowded with five people in the flat and he's annoyed anyway because Marcus took so long in the bathroom it made Jason late for work. Maria's suggests she put some pizzas in the oven and they can have a quiet night in. That's blown when Marcus arrives. He's invited Aiden for dinner. But he promises to cook.

In the Rovers' yard, Lewis arrives a bit late. He tells Gloria he had trouble getting away. With his reputation, the fewer people who see them together the better. Gloria announces she has tickets for the dog track. They head off down the ginnel, where they're seen by a worried looking Emily.

Kevin's at the hospital. The consultant tells him Sophie's been sedated. She needs scans of her head and spine.

Ken, Eccles and Deirdre are in the street near the cafe when a taxi pulls up. Roy's home! Apparently Milton recovered but then fell off a ladder. He was fine but Sylvia broke his fall and is now laid up with a badly bruised hip. Hayley's stayed to look after them both. The whole time Roy is talking, his eyes keep darting to the cafe, where the lights are ablaze and the music is loud.

As Roy nears the door, it open and the noise of gaiety is even louder. Inside, he grabs a bottle off a table and looks at it just as a loud crash sounds from up in his flat.

Kevin's by Sophie's bed. The nurse says Mr Phillips will be along to talk to him once he has the scan results. Kevin needs to ring Sally but has left his phone in the car. The nurse gives him change for the payphone down the corridor.

In Roy's flat, Beth gives Eileen a lesson in Greek dancing. She'd like Mary to dance, too, but Mary won't. As Beth tries to tug at her, Mary falls across the table, smashing something. Roy stops the music. He'd like an explanation. So would the council licensing man who has followed him up the stairs. It seems someone has complained that the cafe has been selling alcohol. He looks pointedly at the bottles Roy is holding.

Kevin has reached Sally and tells her to get to the hospital. Sophie needs her. "I need you." The police arrive and tell Kevin of the reports that Sophie was with a young man. Does she have a boyfriend? Kevin assures them she doesn't.

Anna and Izzy chat about the clinic. Izzy says she got through the procedure by remembering why she was doing it. And if this cycle doesn't work she's happy to do it all again.

In the Rovers, Gary suggests a game of darts to Tommy.

Audrey arrives and goes to sit with Emily, who says she's escaping Norris.

Ken also arrives. In the course of conversation, Steve tells him about Sophie. "Is Ryan OK?" asks Ken. He says he saw Ryan and Sophie getting into a taxi together. Steve tells Michelle and they leave to try to find Ryan.

Eileen offers to help clean up but Roy just wants everyone to go. Paul says he thought Roy knew. "Knew what? That my home and place of business had been turned into a drunken taverna?" Mary reiterates that no alcohol was sold, though customers did bring their own. The inspector says the complainant was adamant liquor was being sold. He tells Roy he must attend the council offices on Monday. He could be liable to anything from a fine to imprisonment.

Tracy's painting her nails when Steve and Michelle arrive to find out whether she knows where Ryan is. She's very annoyed when she realises they're back together and Steve reveals they tricked her. She snaps that her relationship with Ryan was never going to last because of his lack of intelligence. Next thing, Michelle's got Tracy by the throat. "If anything's happened to Ryan I'll have you!" she snarls.

It's the end of dinner at Maria's and Aiden plans to wash up. When he kisses Marcus, Marcus and Maria exchange glances.

Emily's on her third drink. Audrey says she's lucky to have a Lewis instead of a Norris. She tells Emily that Lewis has gone off to console his friend in Knutsford. Emily needs another drink.

At the darts oche, things are going well until Gary starts going on about how he'll bring up his child. Tommy quits and stomps back to the bar.

Kev's talking to Sophie and stroking her arm. The consultant tells him there's no brain injury but Sophie has broken her back and there's a bone fragment putting pressure on her spine. They won't know how bad the damage is until she wakes up. At this stage there are no guarantees. "She's just a kid," says Kevin. "She's my little girl!"

The end of episode one.
Margaret Carr

Written by: Susan Oudot
Directed by: Nicky Higgens

Kevin is holding an unconscious Sophie's hand and speaking to the doctor, who is telling him that they plan to operate on her to remove the piece of bone fragment that is sitting very close to her spinal cord. But before that can happen, they have to remove her tube to make sure she can breathe on her own, and give her a neurological assessment to see if there has been any nerve damage, and if so, how much.

Emily and Audrey are just leaving the Rovers, as Audrey returns the empties to the bar, Tina inquires after the whereabouts of Lewis. She tells him he is on a mission of mercy, visiting a sick friend. Emily looks a little shocked.

After they leave, Tina moves over to speak to Tommy, who is looking all sad and forlorn. She asks him what has gone on between him and Gary. He tells her he is sick and tired of listening to Gary going on and on about this flaming surrogacy, and can't face listening to nothing else for the forthcoming nine months. She puts him straight, telling him that it is natural for Gary to be excited at the prospect of becoming a Dad. She also points out that they need them just as much if they are ever going to put all their debt behind them, and get on with their lives. She tells him in no uncertain terms that she expects him to go over to Gary and apologise, and then they should keep their fingers crossed that this works for all their sakes.

With a sigh, Tommy gets up off the bar stool and goes over to Gary. He apologises for his behaviour earlier, and Gary does the same, saying he had thought he was cool with the idea now. Tommy tells him that he is, but that he should understand that he loves Tina, and this whole thing is weird for him. Gary tells him he understands, and they shake hands.

The doctor is explaining to Kevin now, with the aid of Sophie's spinal x-ray, exactly what they will be doing when they operate. He tells him that he should know that it will be a very delicate operation as they will be working so close to the spinal cord, but the team who will be working on her are very experienced, and she will be in good hands. He tells Kevin they will need Sophie's consent when she comes round before they can proceed, which Kevin right away accuses him of wanting just in case something goes wrong. (If I was in the medical field in Weatherfield, I think I would refuse to treat anyone from Coronation Street, their relatives are always so rude to those taking care of their loved ones!)

Poor Roy is looking around at the disaster that used to be his little train sanctuary, at the broken plates on the floor, the tired looking balloons, the Greek paraphernalia everywhere. Mary comes downstairs in time to see Roy discover a broken train on the floor. He picks it up and tells her it had been a 5th wedding anniversary gift from Hayley, that she had bought it for him when they went to the National Railway Museum because it was the same colour blue as his eyes. Mary tells him she is terribly sorry, and of course she will replace it. Roy loses it then, and shouts at her that it cannot be replaced. She cannot go round with her bin bag and rubber gloves and put everything back the way it was. He goes on to yell that she has destroyed his life and his memories.

Mary protests that she did it for him. Roy cannot believe his ears! He accuses her of using that as an excuse for acting out yet another of her bizarre fantasies, Mary the restaurant owner. She protests again that it wasn't like that, but Roy interrupts her by telling her to just go - please! She leaves, as he flops into a chair and tries to piece together the bits of his train.

Sally has arrived, and she and Kevin are hugging each other. Kevin is filling her in on what has happened and what they are going to do for her. When he gets to the part about there being a lad with her who ran off, he loses his temper, and tells Sally he can't wait to find out who he was.

Maria and Jason are arguing over the type of films they like to watch, and it is obvious they don't have much in common when it comes to taste in movies. Jason then decides he is still hungry, even though they have only just had their dinner, Maria is shocked. Thingy (I can't remember his name - but Marcus' boyfriend) announces he is hungry too, and the two of them take off for the chippy. Maria tells him as he leaves that she will save a fortune on food when he goes away for two weeks. After they left, Marcus asks Maria where he is going, and she tells him he is off to Scotland for a couple of weeks to do a job for Owen. Marcus tells her she should pack his thermals if he won't have her there to keep him warm.

Sophie is waking up, and Kev and Sal want to know how she is feeling. She tells them that her back hurts, and that she can't feel her legs. Kevin tells her to stay calm, because the doctors will sort that for her. She wants to know what has happened to her. They explain it all, and tell her that the police are going to want to speak to her. Her memory is obviously coming back, because she says she doesn't want to speak to the police, and asks where Ryan is.

Maria and Marcus are sitting beside each other on the sofa, sharing a bottle of wine. Marcus is talking about Thingy (But doesn't mention his name, and I still can't remember it!) he tells her that he buys all kinds of tools, but he has never seen him do any DIY. Maria replies that it is probably why he and Jason get on so well. They both agree that their relationships are going very well.

Marcus goes to pour Maria another glass of wine and slops it all over her. He rushes to get a cloth, and with one arm around her, and the other sponging the front of her, their eyes meet, and.... in comes Jason and Thingy. They spring apart, and Maria, claiming she has a headache heads off to bed. Leaving a confused looking Marcus, going for yet another refill.

Kevin is trying to persuade Sophie to tell the police about Ryan, but she is adamant, saying he is a friend, and she won't tell them he was there. Kevin in furious, saying he is not a friend because he ran off. Sophie makes him promise not to say anything.

Michelle is fretting about where Ryan is, just then he arrives home. Michelle demands to know where he has been, and Steve warns him that Kevin has been on the phone, so not to bother lying. Ryan wants to know if Sophie is alright, and is told that she is not, that she is lying seriously ill in hospital. He admits that he was with her, then starts crying, saying he didn't know what to do. Michelle hugs him.

Business is certainly picking up in the Bistro, and Kylie remarks that it will get better yet before long. Nick asks her why that would be, but before she can answer, Roy comes in. He apologises to Nick for what has been occurring in his absence, and assures them that the cafe Continental Gourmet Night has reached a conclusion. He tells Nick that it was never his intention that their two establishments would be in competition, and trusts there are no hard feelings.

He holds his hand out to Nick, who shakes it, and tells him he is glad it has reached an end. Kylie asks what happened, and Roy tells them that the Council are accusing him of selling liquor without a licence. Nick tells him that he knows that is serious. Roy continues that Mary has assured him that no alcohol was sold, that it was all brought in by the customers. But that an anonymous tip-off to the Council had been nothing but malicious. Kylie tells him that he had better hope the Council see it that way. Roy makes his departure, telling them he has a lot of cleaning up to do.

Nick turns to Kylie after Roy leaves and asks her if it was her who phoned the Council. She admits it was, and Nick is furious with her. Telling her that Roy could be in deep trouble.

Michelle is asking Ryan what he was doing on that road. Ryan replies that he didn't care which road it was, that he was just larking about running across it. Just then Kevin arrives, and does what Kevin does best. He throws himself across the room and smacks Ryan in the mouth! He calls him a little toe rag, and goes on to fill Michelle and Steve in on the whole truth. They find out that he had been high on cocaine, that he had been playing in the traffic, and Sophie had saved his life, and then he had run off and left her to possibly die alone. He warns him that if she doesn't pull through he will be back.

Gloria and Lewis are sneaking in the back door of the Rovers, and they have obviously had a great time at the dog track. She tells him that he is not as bad as people make him out to be. He thanks her. She kisses him on the cheek, and wishes him goodnight. He tells her to make sure she now gets some rest. and leaves.

Nick is still grilling Kylie on what she based her accusations on when she phoned the Council. It seems that she got it all from Norris, who had told her that people were coming out of there legless. Nick is furious that she hadn't actually seen any sale of liquor going on, and tells her that first thing Monday morning she is to go to the Council offices and make this whole thing go away, as he is not going to see an innocent man suffer for her stupidity. She protests, but he tells her she will do it, or lose her job.

Ryan is apologising to his mother, who is not accepting it at all. She tells him that his apologies mean nothing. He protests that it wasn't his fault, he was upset over Tracy and the baby, and that the two of them hadn't helped either. They are incensed that he would have the audacity to blame them. Steve asks him if someone handed him the drugs as a gift, and forced him to take them. Ryan says that he didn't mean for Sophie to do what she did. Steve replies that she did it because she is a nice person who thinks about other people. Michelle asks him if he gave a single thought for the poor driver, what he must be going through.

Ryan replies that if he could make it all end differently he would, that it should have been him lying there in that road. (I can't disagree with him there!). Of course, when he says things like that, and starts crying again, Michelle softens towards him. She tells him that perhaps Kevin was exaggerating because he was upset, and perhaps it is nowhere near as serious as he was making out. She goes on to tell him that it was an accident, that it was the drugs, and the fact that he was upset about the baby. Steve looks as if he can't believe his ears when she goes on to tell him that if anyone is to blame for all this, it's Tracy.

Lewis arrives home, and Audrey greets him warmly, asking after his friend Jeremy. She pours him a drink to relax, and tells him they will take it upstairs, as he must be exhausted.

Tina arrives home early, Gloria having told her to go. She cuddles up to Tommy on the sofa, and thanks him for apologising to Gary. She tells him she loves him, and assures him that in nine months they can put it all behind them, and spend the rest of their lives together. Tommy asks her if she means that, and she asks why else she would be doing the surrogacy. She assures him that she is doing it because she loves him, and that she knows that he is the one for her.

Kevin arrives back at the hospital much to Sally and Sophie's relief. He says he just needed to get some air, and to clear his head. He leaves out the little bit about rushing over to Coronation Street and punching Ryan Connor's lights out.

Sophie is about to go into theatre. She makes them promise again that while she is asleep they won't go to the police and tell them about Ryan. They are ready for her now, the doctor tells them they can see her after the operation on the orthopedic ward. Sally asks for a minute to speak to Sophie before they take her. She then tells Sophie she loves her, and if she could change places with her she would. She tells her that as she can't she wants her to know that she is not going to let anything happen to her, that she will get through this, and will get better. Sophie tells them both she loves them, then is wheeled away, leaving behind a sobbing Sally in Kevin's arms.

Christine Warren

Written by Joe Turner Directed by Griff Rowland

Sophie wakes up and asks for Sally. Kevin tells her that her mum has gone home to get some clean clothes. Sophie is scared and still can't feel her legs but she's still showing flashes of her sense of humour when Kevin expresses the wish that he could fix people instead of cars. She reckoned she'd take her chances with the doctors, thanks.

Tommy's walking well these days, as he comes out of the bathroom where Tina is gazing out the window. They must have had words and she's telling him she's going through with the implantation today. She won't know if she's pregnant for a few weeks. He's got a job interview at 10:30 at a call centre. He's glum for all sorts of reasons including that.

In the Windass house, everyone is buzzing about today's events. Izzy is nervous.

Ryan, sported a busted lip thanks to Kevin, wonders if he should go see Sophie in hospital. Steve and Michelle both think he should leave it awhile and keep his head down. Pray that Sophie recovers. Ryan is distracted and goes back to bed. Michelle moans that she will probably lose him.

Eccles leads Ken in the back door. He's spoken to Sally and heard about the operation. There's a chance she might not walk again. Deirdre is horrified. Ken tells Deirdre and Tracy who is sat at the table about the accident and Ryan's involvement. Tracy is defensive. It's not her fault! Ken rightly points out that she used Ryan and discarded him thoughtlessly. She doesn't think it's anything to do with her. She didn't tell him to play in the road, did she? Ken is angry that Tracy never accepts any responsibility for her actions.

Roy has a thick file folder of paperwork to take to the council hearing. He tears a strip off Mary who tried to excuse her actions as only trying to help his business. Some help! Nick man handles Kylie into the cafe. He makes her tell Roy that she was the one that rang the council. Cue more slings and arrows between Mary and Kylie and Roy takes Kylie and leaves.

Rita overhears Lewis and Gloria speaking quietly in a corner in the Kabin. Gloria tells Lewis she's going to put money on a horse. Rita hasn't been able to overhear not for lack of trying. They ask after Sophie and Rita tells them Sophie's tough. Emily comes in and looks uncomfortable to see Lewis and Gloria as they leave. Rita tells Emily of her suspicions that Lewis and Gloria might be up to something, what with all this whispering going on. Emily starts, and practically shouts "What would I Know?" (not suspicious or anything!)

Anna serves Tina and Tommy their teas in the cafe and exchanges a few words about how excited they all are. Tommy grumbles. Owen arrives and offers a lift but Tommy says he's got it covered. Owen anxiously suggests they arrive early and Tommy again brushes him off. Owen leaves and Tina shores up Tommy's confidence for the interview. He promises to be back later to take her to the clinic.

Ryan has gathered his nerve to approach Sally who's just leaving to go back to the hospital. He asks how Sophie is and she nearly rips his head off. Sally tells him that Sally's had an operation with screws and metal plates and they don't know if she'll walk. She castigates Ryan for leaving her there after all the times Sophie defended him and befriended him. She's disgusted. Ryan admits Kevin gave him the split lip, surprising Sally but when he cries that he wishes it had been him, Sally comes over him and wishes that too, he deserves all the pain and agony and fear Sophie's feeling right now. She forbids Ryan to go near Sophie again. When she drives away, Ryan looks near to tears.

Gloria has had Leanne fake a winning cheque from a winning bet. Leanne's not happy about it and Gloria won't say why she needs it but it's important. Leanne reluctantly agrees to do what was asked. Out in the bar, Gloria comes out and tells Lewis and Gail she's won twelve and a half thousand on an accumulator bet. Leanne plays it like she's not happy about having to pay out. Lewis and Gail are surprised and pleased for her. She shows off the (fake) cheque. Leanne takes herself back to the bookies. Gloria looks overwhelmed and Lewis asks with concern if she's ok. She says she's just excited. Lewis buys the drinks in celebration. When he turns around we can see Gail with an odd look on her face as she glances at Gloria and the cheque. Rita and Emily look on, thinking Gloria has no shame! It looks to them like she's flirting with Lewis. Rita thinks Gloria's harmless and Lewis isn't a fool. Emily looks like she disagrees but says nothing. Eva comes in and Lewis tells her that Gloria's won a big amount on the horses. Champagne is poured all around.

After the break, we're still sipping fizzy wine. Lewis takes her to one side for another congratulations. Gloria says she's pleased she'll have something to leave her granddaughters. Lewis urges her to tell them the truth. She asks him to keep her secret for awhile longer. When he turns his back, she has a calculating look on her face. It's seeming more likely she's scheming, doesn't it? Everyone else chats about luck. Emily comes to the bar and is cool with her congratulations.

Outside, Rita finds Tommy brooding on the bench. She tells him she'll go if he doesn't want her sticking his nose in but he just says he didn't get the job because he couldn't concentrate on the interview. She invites him to the shop for a brew.

Ken is off to a Governors' meeting even though it's half term. Brian thinks they'll get more done. He suggests Tracy send a card to Sophie. Cue Tracy flapping about refusing to take responsibility for other people's choices. She flounces off and Deirdre defends her, as per. Ken scolds her. Deirdre has the grace to look a bit guilty.

Tommy tells Rita today's the day for the embryo transplant. Tommy feels like his father, as he's renting out Tina's womb to the neighbours. Rita insists he is nothing like Terry because he cares although Terry was never a moaner. She orders Tommy to stop feeling sorry for himself. He needs to tell Tina he's either with her or not. Tina needs Tommy on her side, she's doing all this for him after all. Rita thinks Tina deserves honesty, not whinging. Support her or walk away. Tommy agrees he's got to take control and asks Rita for a favour. We don't hear what it is just yet.

At the school, Wendy is rattling on about something or other but Ken is far away. Tracy doing stupid things and Deirdre defending her...he reckons he can't take much more. Wendy says they'll finish the board work and then have a nice chat if he wants to unload.

In the cafe, Anna tells Nick that Roy isn't back yet but just then, they return. Roy informs them that he's had a verbal warning with no further action. Kylie is jubilantly confident. Mary said they were treated like murder suspects. Roy says they were thorough and fair. Kylie reckoned they were pussycats. All done now, Anna says. Mary says she's learned her lesson and will work at the cafe for free for two weeks. Roy declines and goes further, he doesn't want her in the cafe at all. Mary runs out in tears.

Tommy drives up in Rita's car (the favour, I assume) to take Tina to the clinic. He seems in a better frame of mind.

Izzy and Gary are waiting outside the clinic for Tommy and Tina who seem to be a bit late or they're just overly anxious. They go inside.

The doctor is testing Sophie's feet for feeling. She can't feel much. The doctor says everyone heals at a different rate. Once it starts to return, they can brace her up and start physio. Sophie is really scared she'll never walk. Sally and Kevin assure her they'll cope no matter what. Sophie wonders if she'll need a wheelchair then asks her parents to get Ryan to come and see her. They don't think it's a good idea but she insists. Sally tells them she saw Ryan and his cut lip. Sophie is not happy with her father or her mother for sending Ryan packing. She insists she wants to see Ryan.

Tommy pulls over to the side of the road. She wonders what he's doing. He says he doesn't want her doing this and decides he'll drive her as far away as he can get her. He pulls out again.... as the episode ends.

Tvor

Written by Peter Whalley and directed by Griff Rowland

Tommy has driven Tina into the middle of a wasteland to tell her that he won't let her go ahead with surrogacy. As they argue she points out that it's too late as they've taken Owen's money and they're waiting for her at the hospital. Tommy tells her that he knows she's talked him round before but not this time.

At the hospital, Izzy and Gary are waiting. Gary's sure Tina will turn up but Izzy knows there's something wrong and gets out her phone to call Tina.

We return to Tommy and Tina who have now got out of the car to continue their argument. Tina's phone rings. She sees it's Izzy calling and asks Tommy what she's supposed to say to her. He wants her to tell Izzy she's not going ahead but Tina says she can't do that because she's made a promise. She tells Tommy to take the call, then changes her mind and throws the phone inside the car, unanswered. They continue to argue and Tina asks Tommy what will happen if she goes ahead? Will he leave her? He tells her he might have to.

In the street Kevin drives up outside Michelle's door and rings the bell.

Next we move to the hospital where Izzy's been called in for her appointment. They're told that although Tina hasn't turned up, the embryos remain viable for another 24 hours so, if she's willing to go in the next day, they can do it then. Gary seems hopeful but Izzy doesn't share his optimism. The doctor tells them to make an appointment for tomorrow and wishes them luck.

Michelle opens the door to an angry-looking Kevin who tells her that Sophie wants to talk to Ryan. Ryan hovers in the background looking worried. Michelle asks him if he's sure he wants to go but Ryan says that if Sophie wants to see him then of course he's sure.

Back at the wasteland, Tina and Tommy are still arguing. He says he'll pay back the money Owen gave them although it's not clear how. But Tina says it's not even about the money it's more about the fact that she promised to help Izzy. Tommy says he'll tell them that he was the one who made her change her mind but it doesn't seem as though she has. Tina tells Tommy that he wouldn't even be aware she was pregnant until near the end but he says he doesn't want her carrying someone else's baby. End of.

Nick calls into Roy's Rolls for a coffee. He looks very interested in a conversation Anna is having with Rita and Dennis. He overhears Anna telling them that Mary might have been a nightmare to work with but while she was running the cafe the takings shot up. Rita says that the food she cooked was some of the best she's eaten and Dennis agrees. But Roy won't even entertain the idea of employing Mary after what went on in his absence. Nick looks thoughtful.

Ryan and Kevin arrive at Sophie's bedside in the hospital. Kevin reminds Ryan that she's there thanks to him. Kevin can't quite believe it when Sophie asks him to leave her alone with Ryan for ten minutes.

At Bessie Street school, Ken and Wendy have a brief word in the corridor. We gather that their governors' meeting is long and boring and Ken suggests they should have a drink together afterwards. Wendy looks pleased with the idea but asks Ken if he needs to get back to his family. He makes it quite clear that he's not going to let that worry him.

Back in the hospital Saint Sophie is lying flat on her back, asking Ryan if he really intended to kill himself. He confesses that he was just being an idiot, out of his head on coke. She asks if it was all because Tracy dumped him. Ryan admits that it was partly that but also because of the way he'd messed up his life. He says that when he learned Tracy was pregnant it gave him a purpose but then he discovered it wasn't true and he turned to the drugs again. Saint Sophie says that something good must come out of her accident and asks if it means that Ryan will now stop taking drugs. An anguished Ryan swears that he won't touch them ever again. He's almost crying as he tells her he's so, so sorry. Saint Sophie tells Ryan she's forgiven him and he must do the same.

Izzy and Gary are at Anna's talking to her about Tina not turning up. Owen works out that it must have been Tommy who talked her out of going. Gary wants to find out direct from Tina what happened. Just then, Izzy's phone rings. It's Tina who has rung to let her know that she's sorry but she can't go through with it. A tearful Izzy tells her that she's never felt so dependent on other people as she does right now and she's also never felt so let down.

Gary reminds Izzy that they still have a chance to go back to the hospital the next day. Anna and Owen think she should wait for Tina and Tommy to come round and find out what they have to say. But Izzy's in a state and convinced it won't make any difference and that Tina and Tommy won't change their minds.

We move to the Rovers where Gloria is asking Lewis if she can take him out to dinner tomorrow evening. "While I've still got the strength," she adds when she see Lewis hesitate. He says he'll have to make sure he's free and Gloria suggests he can do that right now as she sees Audrey walk through the door with perfect timing. Audrey looks put out when she sees Gloria and suggests she and Lewis should move away from the bar, out of Gloria's earshot.

Ken has gone back to Wendy's for a drink after the governors' meeting. As Wendy plies him with red wine and olives and seductive music plays in the background, Ken's phone rings. It's Deirdre to tell him dinner's on the table. Wendy makes "stay and eat with me" gestures in the background so Ken tells Deirdre to go ahead without him as he's eating out. Back at home Tracy wonders whether he's staying out because of her. She observes that she can't remember the last time she did anything to please her father and Deirdre says that neither can she.

A contrite Mary goes into the Bistro to apologise to Nick for any harm she's caused to him or his business. As she grovels, Nick seems quite happy to accept her apology. Unlike Kylie who glowers when Nick asks her to get Mary a drink on the house and says that he has a proposition to make.

In the Rovers Michelle is sharing her concerns over Ryan with Steve. She can't understand why he hasn't even texted her and is worried that this will tip him over the edge and send him back to his druggy mates. She contemplates cancelling her trip to Ireland but Steve tells her not to worry, he'll keep an eye on Ryan.

Meanwhile Lewis and Audrey are standing by the bar. She starts to question him about where he went with his friend Jeremy the previous week. When Lewis says they had dinner in Knutsford, Audrey produces a greyhound racing programme which she tells him he found in his jacket pocket. Quick as a flash Lewis tells her he found it lying on the bar at which point Gloria, who's been listening in, comments that men put the strangest things in their pockets. Audrey looks distinctly unamused. Meanwhile Lewis remains his cool, charming self and tells Audrey that he'll be going out to dinner with Gloria the following evening. He claims it's for work but when Audrey asks if that means all the staff will be going he tells her not to be silly because someone has to stay behind and run the pub.

Michelle is relieved when Ryan finally comes into the pub. He looks upset and tells his mum that Sophie is the kindest most forgiving person. He says that he made promises to Sophie that he intends to keep. Michelle takes him in her arms and gives him a hug.

Back in the Bistro Nick shares his proposition with Mary: he would like her to do for him what she did for Roy. "What, fall out with you?" asks Mary, looking alarmed. Nick laughs and explains he'd like her to run some theme nights for him, perhaps once a week to begin with. Mary is thrilled that someone finally has faith in her but Kylie wants a word with Nick. She can't believe what he's doing after Mary nearly closed down the cafe but, as Nick points out, unlike Roy's Rolls, his premises are licensed.

Tommy and Tina are back home. They know they have to go round and face the music with Izzy and Gary. Tommy tells Tina to remember that she had every right to say no but as she points out to him, she left it a bit late.

Over at Wendy's she and Ken have moved to the sofa with their glasses of wine. Ken's talking about his marriage and saying that he and Deirdre are happy enough. Wendy says that's terrible and he might as well say that they're miserable enough. She asks him how Deirdre feels and Ken reckons pretty much the same as him. Wendy chuckles and says it sounds like they deserve each other.

Tina and Tommy arrive at Anna's to apologise to Izzy and Gary. Tommy tries to take the blame but Tina steps in and says it was her decision. Gary tells them that they can still go back tomorrow if they have a change of heart but Tina says she's made up her mind. Tommy tries suggesting that they could always use someone else but a tearful Izzy says she couldn't put herself through this again in case the same thing happened. Tina looks very, very guilty. As they leave she tells Izzy once more how very sorry she is and that it's all her.

In the hospital Kevin and Sally are standing at the end of Sophie's bed. Sally is incredulous that Sophie forgave Ryan and Kevin tells her that he certainly won't. Sophie points out that she can hear their conversation. Kevin asks her how she's feeling. "Still nothing in my legs, if that's what you're on about" replies Sophie. Sally tries to be reassuring but the look she gives Kevin tells a different story.

We return to Wendy's where Ken has fallen asleep on the sofa. As he snores away, Wendy tucks a blanket around him and wishes him sweet dreams.

Next we go to Tommy and Tina's where they're receiving an unexpected visitor. Without a by your leave, Owen lets himself through the front door. Not surprisingly he's come to tell them he wants his money back. Oh, and of course he wants them to move out of his flat. He tells them he's not inhuman and he doesn't expect them to move out straight away - he'll give them until the end of the week. He adds that he'd like his money back by then, too. Tommy asks if they can pay him back by instalments. "Remind me," says Owen. "Did you let my daughter down by instalments?" He tells them he wants them out by Friday and £5,000 back. As Owen slams the front door behind him Tommy looks at Tina and asks her what they're going to do. She looks at him despairingly as she shakes her head.

Karen

It's morning, and Tina has had a sleepless night worrying about how they're going to pay Owen back and find somewhere else to live. Tommy can't come up with any answers, and she's annoyed because he was sleeping soundly while she fretted.

Ken wakes up and finds himself on Wendy's sofa. He's horrified that she didn't wake him, and he's worried about what Deirdre will say.

Tommy comes out of the shower and tells Tina that she's perfectly within her rights to back out of the surrogacy. Tina, however, can't see any other way to clear their debts. They argue, with Tommy reminding her that she's told Izzy now that she's not going ahead with it. He storms off out, saying he's going to find a job or rob a bank! As soon as he's out of the flat, Tina picks up her phone and makes a call.

Tracy and Deirdre are discussing Ken's absence. Tracy thinks her mother should ring him, but Deirdre has put two and two together, she knows that Wendy was at the governors' meeting too, so she's going to wait and see if Ken chooses to come back at all. "Your father has spent a good portion of his life chasing other women," she says, "perhaps now he's finally managed to catch one."

Ken, meanwhile is taking his leave of Wendy. She acts the innocent, saying that surely Deirdre can't object to him having a drink. "That's not what the argument will be about," says Ken.

Audrey is in the Kabin chatting to Rita, telling her how she found the programme for the dog track in Lewis's pocket for the night he was supposed to be out consoling his mate. Rita asks if she would mind if he went to the dog track and she says she wouldn't. She goes off, and Tommy comes in and tells Rita how Tina has promised she won't go through with the surrogacy, and she'll be all right when she stops worrying about money. He tells Rita that now they have to pay Owen back and be out of the flat by the end of the week. She tells him that the offer to lend them the money is still there, but she just wants to run it past Dennis first.

Tina knocks on Anna's door, and tells her that she's been trying to ring Izzy but she's not answering. She's changed her mind and believes that they can still do the implantation today. Anna rushes to the phone, saying she'll ring her, and if she doesn't get an answer she'll go over to Underworld and get her.

Ken arrives home and sheepishly tells Deirdre and Tracy that he went to Wendy's, had too much to drink and fell asleep on a chair. "You spent all night on a chair?" says Tracy, in a disbelieving tone. He says he couldn't believe it when he woke up. "That makes two of us," says Deirdre. She goes on to ask him that if the situation were reversed, and she came home after staying out all night, with a similar tale, if he would believe her. He says he'd like to think that he would. "That's all right then," says Deirdre, obviously not believing him for a minute. She tells him to go and have a bath.

In the hospital, Sophie tells Kevin that she thinks she can feel her feet. She gets Kevin to push against them, and then he rushes off to find someone to tell.

At Anna's house, Owen asks Tina if she's sure Tommy is happy about it all now. She says she's sure, but it's not really his decision. He doesn't want her to let Izzy down again.

Audrey, Rita and Emily are in the Rovers, and Lewis brings their drinks over on a tray. When he gets back behind the bar, Gloria points out that Audrey is looking at her as if she'd like to stick a knife in her. Lewis says it's just because her eyesight isn't so good.

Audrey mentions Lewis and the dog track, and Emily confesses that she saw him going off with Gloria last Wednesday. Audrey is furious, Lewis has told her a pack of lies, she gets up to go out and confront Gloria.

Out at the back, she asks Gloria exactly what is going on between herself and Lewis. Gloria then reveals that it was all Gail's idea.

Sally has arrived at the hospital and they are all delighted with Sophie's progress. She starts physio tomorrow.

Audrey and Gloria arrive on Gail's doorstep. Audrey wants to know if it's true that Gail asked Gloria to seduce Lewis to test if he could be faithful. She can't believe that it's true, and she doesn't like it at all. Gail admits that it is true, and they didn't tell her because they knew she would never agree to it. Audrey says she won't go on with it, it's humiliating. Gail says it would be more humiliating if he makes a fool of her again. She thinks they should send Gloria on the meal with him and see what comes out of it.

Tina and Izzy are at the clinic. Izzy asks if she talked Tommy round. "Something like that," says Tina. Then a nurse comes out and calls her name.

Meanwhile, Rita is writing a cheque for Tommy, made out to Owen Armstrong. He thanks her and says he'll pay her back as soon as he can. She tells him to look after Tina, that will be the best investment she's ever made.

Tracy's off to fetch Amy. She tells Ken and Deirdre not to kill each other before she gets back. When she's gone, Ken asks if Deirdre believes him. She says she doesn't. She wants to know why he was even at Wendy's house. He says they went back for a drink. "Which you could have got anywhere," she says, and adds that he would know she wouldn't like it. Did he not care what she thought? "I don't think you do any more, do you?" she says.

Audrey and Lewis arrive at the Bistro for dinner. Nick shows them to the table, and Gloria orders champagne. Gail comes in to do a spot of 'people watching'.

Tina is back at Anna's, with Izzy and Gary. Tommy arrives, he's looking for Owen with Rita's cheque. "He doesn't know, does he?" says Izzy. "Know what?" asks Tommy. "I've done it," says Tina, "I've had the transfer."

Nick tells Gail that Gloria seems to be all over Lewis.

At their table, Gloria tells Lewis it's like God is playing tricks, giving her all this money but very little time to spend it. There are places she'd like to go, but it's hard on your own. He tells her there are always groups she could join, but she says she's not a group person, she's looking for companionship, someone to share it with. She asks him where she could go to find the man of her dreams to take round the world in first class comfort. He advises her to be careful, and make sure her companion is someone she can trust implicitly. "Like I trust you, you mean?" she asks, coyly.

Tina and Tommy get back to their flat, arguing. He's furious that she did it, after saying she wouldn't. She says they needed the money, to get them out of the mess he made. She did it for them, her and him, not for Izzy, Gary or anyone else. "Me and you!" she shouts.

Gail and Gloria get back to see Audrey. Gloria says how charming Lewis was, Audrey points out that he's like that with everybody. Tomorrow she's going to suggest that they run away together, then they'll see what his reaction is.

Tina tells Tommy she did it for him, she loves him. He says he loves her too. She says this will give them a new start, get rid of all their problems. "Let's hope so," he says. "It will, I know it will," she says.

Anne Logan

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Updates written by K Richard Whitbread, Martin Rosen,Duncan Lindsay, Christine Warren, Ann Logan, Margaret Carr, Tvor, Karen Jankel.

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