Jack finds the missing piece of the murder investigation puzzle – the motive that ties a well-known Summer Bay identity to the death of Josh West. Armed with the motive, Jack confronts McGrath about Peter’s involvement in the murder – and a frantic police hunt soon begins when they discover their once-applauded detective has fled town. Robbie and Colleen play cupid to Irene and Hyde.
Extended Summary
Martha is still reeling from the possibility that Zoe may still be alive. Martha is skeptical but Jack reiterates the fact that Laura went missing on the same day as Zoe and the burnt body in the shed was not officially identified. Martha questions if Peter is back in Bay to catch Zoe but Jack has something more sinister in mind – what if Peter is working with Zoe?? Jack knows the idea sounds ludicrous but he is determined to get to the bottom of this. He moves off, leaving behind a concerned Martha – how far will Jack go to uncover the truth? Peter in his office on a call to his liaison assuring them that everything is set. He puts the phone down with a grim look on his face – what is Peter planning? He emerges from his office and overhears Jack talking to one of the other officers about Laura McPherson. Peter’s ears prick up at the mention of her name. Peter cuts in, assuring Jack that case is closed. Jack insists Headquarters have asked him to look in to it further and Peter moves off, very unimpressed that Jack is sniffing around his case. Once Peter is out of sight, Jack takes the opportunity to sneak into Peter’s office. Jack searches around but finds no clues on Zoe. He then eyes Peter’s computer with thought, before picking up the phone and dialing the tech guys – he wants to see the deleted files Peter obtained from Josh’s computer. He’s going to get to the bottom of this once and for all! Jack is returning from a call out when he passes the lane way he noticed Peter suspiciously leaving from last week. His curiosity gets the better of him and drives along slowly, before spying an old shed.
Checking the coast is clear, he moves to the shed and pries the door open. Jack is in shock as looks at the array of surveillance pictures, maps and articles plastered on the walls. Jack can’t believe his eyes but as he turns to go, he comes face-to-face with Peter. Jack demands the truth. Peter braces himself as he proceeds to inform Jack he received a call from Tracey, a private investigator, who spotted Zoe in the city. And so the hunt for Zoe began! Jack insists Peter has gone to extreme lengths but Peter insists he couldn’t stand back and watch Zoe hurt his loved ones a second time. It’s personal now. Jack then questions if Peter had any part in Josh’s murder but Peter denies any involvement. Jack processes all that Peter has told him – but is not entirely convinced it’s the truth! Meanwhile, Martha has become more alarmed that Zoe may still be alive. Jack brings her up to speed on his run in with Peter and the discovery of the shed. Jack is still not sure what to believe, given the lies Peter has told in the past. Just then, the fax beeps, as Jack removes the document retrieved by the computer guys. Jack scans the previously deleted computer files with growing concern. He turns to Martha to reveal the email suggests Josh knew Zoe was still alive and that there was a meeting between Peter and Josh organised on the same day as Josh’s murder! Jack is convinced this is motive – did Peter kill Josh to protect his secret?!
Robbie and Tasha are in the Diner enjoying a meal. It’s the first time in a while that Tasha hasn’t had morning sickness and they are looking every bit the couple in love. Irene watches on wistfully from the kitchen, wishing she had someone special. The moment is broken by the arrival of Hyde, who invites Irene out for a quick stroll. Upon their return, Robbie watches on as Irene and Hyde share a laugh, obviously enjoying each other’s company. Robbie wonders why they are not together and suggests to Tasha he may be able to help them along. Tasha doesn’t agree it’s a good idea – but it’s too late, as Robbie continues to observe and clearly an idea is forming…Colleen is shocked by Robbie’s suggestion to help play cupid to Irene and Hyde…but in no time Colleen is thrilled to be of assistance. In fact, she has a special love potion from Italy which she insists will help things along. Robbie isn’t so sure of the “African deer sack” Colleen is talking about but is willing to give it a go.
Colleen begins cooking up a storm and adds a few drops of her special aphrodisiac. Tasha questions if it actually works. Colleen insists she couldn’t keep her hands off the man that sold it to her in Florence – but on second thoughts, it may have been the wine she had with lunch that day! Robbie has a taste – it smells horrible – but proceeds to pretend he’s utterly attracted to Colleen. She hits him playfully for being cheeky, as the three enjoy the fun and laughter. Now all they need is Irene and Hyde to take the bait!
Irene and Hyde arrive at the Diner and are surprised to find the place filled with candles and a little note to enjoy their meal. They look to one another, knowing full well they’ve been set up. As they polish off their bottle of wine, neither has touched their meal. Irene discovers the bottle of aphrodisiac – at least that explains the horrible taste! Hyde and Irene can’t help but laugh at their efforts, it’s been a fun night after all – could there be hope for a renewed relationship?