UK Air Date: 3rd May 2006
Writer: Sam Meikle
Director: Geoffrey Nottage
Leah and Dan’s marriage is on the line in the wake of Leah’s discovery. Flynn and Sally renew their wedding vows – but devastation is just around the corner.
Extended Summary
The $20,000 betting ticket still clutched in her hand, Leah can’t believe this is happening as Dan tells her the whole story. Anger and hurt in her eyes, Leah slaps his hand away and walks out of the room, leaving Dan feeling like crap. Meanwhile, Flynn checks to see if the coast is clear as he grabs the picnic basket and esky from the pantry… Sally, Ric, Cassie and Pippa are all dressed up ready to go. But don’t know what’s going on? But Flynn’s remaining tight lipped.
Leah’s fussing over birthday boy VJ. Her attention is 100% on her son and she barely acknowledges Dan when he comes in. Dan quietly says they need to talk… But Leah’s having none of it – it’s her son’s birthday – she’s not going to let him ruin this as well. Meanwhile, Flynn’s Kombi pulls up in a secluded bush setting and everybody gets out, bemused. Loving every second of it, he leads them around some trees to reveal – an immaculate picnic set up on the shore of a secluded lake! It’s beautiful! Alf and Colleen are waiting there – having set the whole thing up. Flynn reveals that today is going to be more than just a picnic. He’s brought Sally here today so they can renew their vows. Sally is stunned! Music plays as Cassie leads Sally walks towards Flynn. Colleen watches on, Pippa in her arms, overwhelmed with emotion at the touching scene. The ceremony begins and they exchange touching vows – a beautiful moment, full of joy and sadness.
Leah’s told Irene the whole story as VJ’s party goes on around them. She explains that it’s not the gambling that has upset her – everyone has flaws – it’s all the lies he has told. Irene’s the voice of experience and reason – he was ashamed, love, that’s all. Leah continues, distraught – You should see his bruises, Irene and Amanda’s had to take Ryan away because they have threatened him –– why has Dan done this to us? Irene tells Leah that if anyone can get through this – they can. She’s not saying it will be easy but they can get through this together. We all make mistakes, Darl – maybe you can forgive him this one. What will Leah decide? Meanwhile, everyone else is laughing and chatting in the background as Flynn collapses to the ground! The laughter turns to shock as Sally and the others race to Flynn’s side. Ric drops the camera and races over as well! Flynn?!
The kids are tucking in to the banquet of party food splayed out before them. It’s like feeding time at the zoo, and Irene can’t help but laugh… Leah cracks a smile, which Irene’s pleased to see. Then the kids all look to the door and start cheering. Dan has returned – and he’s dressed as a clown. The kids jump from the table and encircle Dan as he starts a wacky performance. Shrieks of laughter fill the house – and Leah can’t help but start to thaw towards her husband…a proud smile making its way onto her face. Meanwhile, Sally, Pippa and Cassie open the door for Ric, who’s helping a very downbeat Flynn in to the house. Sally helps him upstairs as Ric and Cassie are left watching on – concerned at how sick he is getting by the day… Sally wants to stay with Flynn, but he says he wants to be alone. Once she is gone, we see Flynn slump – he’s weary and drained; his spirits at an all time low…
After the party, Dan approaches her and apologises for being late – it took a while to sort out the costume. Leah looks into his eyes and Dan can see that she’s softening towards him. She understands this isn’t something he wanted to happen and everyone’s entitled to make a mistake. Dan can’t help but feel hopeful – what are you saying? Leah – I’m saying that I love you so much, Dan. And together we can get through this.
Meanwhile, Flynn wakes and he moves to his medicine bag and pulls out a full vial of morphine. What’s he planning to do?