The next morning, Matt calls out to Patricia that breakfast is
up. As he puts two plates down on the table, he adds that he hopes
she likes her eggs scrambled! Patricia comes in and says she doesn't
usually eat a big breakfast. Matt tells her that she should
- it's the most important meal of the day! Patricia remarks, "So
I keep reading!" Matt continues that it's especially important
when you've got a big day ahead of you. Patricia says, "Have
you?" Matt replies that he meant her; he hands her
the newspaper and tells her that he's gone through the employment
section and has circled all the jobs he thinks she should apply
for. Patricia laughs as she asks if this is his professional advice!
Matt, though, replies that, now that she and Stephen are separated,
she should start making a new life for herself. Patricia reluctantly
says she supposes so - it's just not exactly the sort of conversation
she expected to have this morning. Matt asks what she did
expect - a deep-and-meaningful over where they stand now with
regard to each other? Patricia says she thought it might have
been on the cards. Matt suggests that maybe they have it later
- he's far too happy this morning; he doesn't want to spoil it
all!
Gordon and Barbara are sitting at the breakfast table at Dural,
and Gordon tells his wife that she'll have to do something to
snap out of it. Barbara snaps that she's fine, but Gordon tells
her that she can't keep bottling it up; if she can't talk to somebody
close, then maybe-- Barbara interrupts and asks if he
means talk to a psychiatrist. Gordon replies that he was going
to suggest Matt - he did help her after the stroke.
Barbara says she'll think about it. Gordon heads off to make a
call from the study. As he crosses the hallway, Amanda is coming
downstairs, and she asks Gordon how Barbara is - any better? Gordon
glumly replies that she's worse, if anything. Amanda says she
could get out of her way for a while - give her a a break. Gordon
asks her where she'd go. Amanda tells him that she could go to
Melbourne - a friend of hers has just got back from St. Morritz,
and she's dying to hear all the news; she could go and visit.
Gordon tells her that he doesn't want her to think they're kicking
her out. Amanda tells him not to be silly; she'll catch the 'plane
this afternoon; the main thing is that Aunty Barb has a chance
to get back to herself. In the lounge room, Barbara looks up a
number in the 'phone index and then dials it.
At Matt's apartment, Patricia says they want somebody who's experienced.
Matt tells her that it won't take long to pick it up! The 'phone
suddenly starts ringing, and when Matt answers it, Barbara comes
on. Matt asks her how she is, and she retorts that she's fine
- although Gordon doesn't think so. Matt asks why. Barbara tells
him that Gordon thinks she should come and see him. Matt asks
her if she wants to make an appointment just to keep the peace,
and Barbara replies that that's about it! Matt tells her that
he'll be back from the office at about 4:30pm - she could pop
around then. Barbara says that's fine. She then asks Matt if he
realises that this isn't a professional visit. Matt replies that
she can use him as a sounding board. They hang up, and Patricia
asks if the caller was the Barbara she knows and loves! Matt says
it was. He then adds that it wasn't important. Patricia comments
that he doesn't discuss his patients. Matt suggests she stop fishing,
and he tells her to remember what happened when she tried to find
out about Angela. Patricia smiles that she was just trying
to make conversation!
Terry is working on the engine of his car; Fiona and Tony are
standing next to him. Terry tells Fiona that he had a chat to
the blokes and they're OK now. Fiona says she's just happy that
the place is running properly again! Terry then asks
Tony how he is, and he replies that he's on top of the
world! Terry asks how Shelley is, and Tony tells him that they're
going on another date tonight! Terry asks him where they're going,
but Tony's face drops as he says that, on the money he's
got, he can barely afford to take her to the fish and chip
shop. He then asks how about if he did a few odd jobs around the
place, to earn a few bucks. Terry says they might be able to think
of something! He asks Fiona if they can afford a casual labourer
for half a day! Fiona laughs, "Yes!" Tony heads inside
to get some overalls. Terry tells Fiona that he thinks the boy's
in love!
A while later, Tony is lying under Terry's car, and he asks Terry
if it's time for lunch yet. Terry points out that they only had
smoko an hour ago! Tony suddenly sees a pair of legs walking towards
them, and he smiles at the pleasant view! It's Jill, and she asks
Terry if Tony's around. Tony comes out from where he was hidden
under the car. Jill tells him that Shelley 'phoned - there's some
problem about the date tonight. Tony asks if she said what it
is, but Jill says she didn't. She adds that Shelley said she'd
meet him outside Terry's place after school.
Shelley and Tony walk into the Hansen place. Shelley asks Tony
if he's sure it's alright to be there, and Tony tells her that
Terry's parents have gone away for a while. They sit down. Shelley
looks at Tony and tells him that her rat of a younger brother
heard her talking about him being in jail once and ran straight
to their dad. Tony says, "So?" Shelley replies that
her dad doesn't want her mixing with criminals. Tony points out
that he's an ex-crim, but Shelley says that doesn't make
any difference - once you've been inside, that's it. Tony tells
her that they could still see each other - her dad doesn't have
to know. Shelley, though, tells him that he knows what country
towns are like - you can't do anything without everyone
knowing about it. Tony asks how about after school, but Shelley
replies that 'bigmouth' goes there, too; she adds that she means
her brother! Tony then suggests that he go round and see her at
her parents' and show her dad what a good bloke he is. Shelley
says it wouldn't work - her parents have got really funny ideas.
Tony asks her if she wants to keep seeing him. Shelley asks him
what he wants to do. Tony tells her that he wants to
see her. Shelley says that's how she feels, too. Tony
says they'll have to think of something, then.
Barbara arrives at Matt's, and he invites her in and tells her
to sit down. Barbara says she's fine. Matt asks what's wrong,
but Barbara tells him that it's nothing. Sensing some awkwardness,
Matt points out that they've been through the nervous bit with
each other before, and he asks if she doesn't trust him. Barbara
admits that she should, she supposes. She then asks for
a drink: scotch and water - lots of it. Matt goes to his drinks
table and starts to pour it. As he does so, Barbara asks what
you do when you find out that the man you've loved all your life
has lied to you for years.
Amanda is just leaving Melbourne airport when Wayne comes up
behind her and calls out to her. She stops and turns round. He
tells her that he's sorry he's late. Amanda, though, says she
didn't even expect to see him there. Wayne tells her
that he admits that, when she called to say she was coming, he
was surprised. Amanda asks why. Wayne replies that he thought
it would take a few more days to pluck up the courage to tell
people that she was living with him again. Amanda sheepishly says
she hasn't told them; she made up an excuse. Wayne suggests
that, if there's any heaviness, they should handle it together.
As they walk to Wayne's car, Amanda remarks on how civil he's
being! Wayne tells her that he meant what he said when she agreed
to come back: he wants everything to be as pleasant for her as
it is for him.
The 'phone rings at Dural, and Gordon answers it. It's Andy;
there's loud music playing in the background. He asks for Amanda,
but Gordon explains that she's gone to Melbourne - she flew down
this afternoon. Andy asks what for, and Gordon replies that she's
just taking a break. He asks if there's anything he can do. Andy
says she's making a big mistake. He adds that he can't talk about
it over the 'phone, and so Gordon suggests that he drop in. Andy
tells him that he'll be there as soon as he can. Gordon looks
thoughtful.
Barbara tells Matt that, when she first met Roland, she thought
that at last there was a man she could love and trust - and she
did - he was the perfect companion. She continues that
she'd had a rather cold upbringing with Dee - that lasted for
more than twenty years; and then Roland came into her life; she
loved him so much. Matt tells her to go on. Barbara tells
him that Roland was everything she ever wanted in a man; he was
more than just a lover - he was her friend; that's why
it was so good; and then to find out... She starts crying and
tells Matt that she's sorry. She sniffs, and Matt tells her that,
if she wants to cry, cry. Barbara says, "No..."
She continues that, to think she'd found someone so honest and
trustworthy... and that's what's so hard... She sniffs
again as she says she's never asked anything of anyone that she
doesn't expect of herself - and that's why she loves Roland so
much... She starts to break down and cries that she thought
his ideas were the same as hers, and they weren't; and
she loves him and how she doesn't know what she feels.
She starts sobbing heavily, as Matt comforts her.
At Dural, Andy says he doesn't even know if he should be
there - he promised her that he wouldn't say anything; but she's
only going to make trouble for herself. He tells Gordon, "She's
gone back to Wayne." Gordon asks him if he's sure. Andy tells
him that she's done a con-job on him. He continues that he didn't
want to get involved, but she's come up with an idea for getting
back at Wayne for all the rotten things he's done - something
about a forged Power of Attorney, for starters. He adds that it's
just that Amanda is a decent girl and he doesn't want to see her
make an idiot of herself. Gordon listens and then says he'll see
what he can do. He tells Andy that he did the right thing, telling
him. Andy says he can't understand anyone wanting to
make life rougher than it already is.
Amanda and Wayne are walking upstairs at Toorak, and Amanda comments
that she supposes she should be saying something like 'it's good
to be home'! The 'phone suddenly starts ringing, and she heads
back down to get it, while Wayne heads for his room. When she
picks up the call, Gordon says it's him. Amanda tells him that
he's lucky to catch her there - she just dropped in to-- Gordon
interrupts her and snaps that he knows she's back staying with
Wayne, and he knows why. Amanda tells him that she doesn't
know what he's talking about, but Gordon snaps that of course
she does. Amanda realises that Andy told him. Gordon replies that
he was only doing what he thought best. Amanda snaps to put Andy
on, but Gordon says he left a few minutes ago. He then continues
that he wants Amanda back in Sydney straight away. Amanda
snaps no: he can't order her around. Gordon tells her that what
she's doing is totally childish. Amanda retorts that he can think
what he likes - someone has to make people see how low
Wayne really is. Gordon says he already knows. Amanda
suddenly hears a noise upstairs, and she says to the 'phone that
he isn't there at the moment; she can give the caller the office
number if they like. Gordon realises that Wayne is there, and
so he tells Amanda that he'll leave it for now - but if she doesn't
ring him back as soon as she can, he'll ring Wayne and tell him
exactly what she's doing. They hang up, and Amanda tells Wayne
that it was someone wanting to talk to Kevin. She looks worried.
Matt is writing some things down, and Barbara asks if she gets
to read her file! Matt tells her that she doesn't - he only dragged
it out to refresh his memory! Barbara asks if she's going to be
alright. Matt replies that she's one of the strongest people he
knows; she didn't need professional help - just someone
to talk to outside the family. They go to the front door but as
Matt goes to open it, Patricia comes in. Looking surprised, she
remarks that she thought they'd be gone by now. Matt tells her
that he's just going to walk Babara to her car. They go out and
Patricia goes in. She suddenly spots Barbara's file lying on top
of the television - labelled 'Barbara Armstrong'. She looks at
it, a thoughtful expression on her face...
Jill and John are sitting in the lounge room at Woombai, looking
at a brochure. Jill points out that it's not cheap. John
explains that it's a full-time course - you live in. He adds that
he's got the money if he does decide to take it on -
thanks to Beryl. As he says this, Fiona comes in and asks him
what he's talking about. John explains that it's a flying course.
Fiona comments that she thought he'd given all that away, but
John says he's still tossing it around. Tony suddenly comes in
and excitedly asks if David's there. Fiona explains that he's
sleeping. Tony says he wanted him to be the first to know: he's
going back to school! There's silence. Tony asks what everyone
reckons. Fiona says she thinks it's a great idea! John
remarks that it's a change of tune, and Tony replies that you
have to take the opportunity when it comes! John says he supposes
so. Tony then asks where Terry is, and Jill says he's over at
the Reid house. Tony rushes off. Fiona says she wonders what made
him change his mind.
At the Reid house, Terry tells Tony that he reckons he's doing
it for all the wrong reasons. Tony insists that he isn't - he's
killing two birds with one stone. Terry points out that he's just
doing it so he'll get to see Shelley, but Tony retorts that he'll
be learning as well. He adds that he's been thinking about it
a lot, and Dave and old Mr. Palmer have been talking about it
a lot. Terry remarks that he didn't think Tony was taking any
notice of them. Tony replies that he was; and it'll make
his mum proud of him; and he'll be able to get a decent job! Terry
says, "Whatever you say, Tony." Tony sarcastically thanks
him for all the enthusaism. Terry tells him that if that's what
he really wants to do, then great. Tony says he's going to work
hard! He then asks Terry what he thinks about Shelley. He adds
that she isn't bad, is she! He continues that he's never felt
about anyone like he feels about her; no one's going
to stop him from seeing her - not even her old man. Terry looks
wary.
Matt comes back into the flat, and Patricia remarks that she
thought he'd got lost. Matt explains that he and Barbara went
for a walk - Barbara had a rough day. He then tells Patricia that
that running into her didn't help! Patricia starts to
say that if she's going to go upsetting his patients... Matt tells
her that Barbara isn't a patient. He walks over to where Barbara's
file is resting on the table, and Patricia remarks that the name
on the cover should be 'Hamilton', not 'Armstrong'. Matt looks
at her suspiciously. Realising what he's thinking, she tells him
that she didn't read it - although she can't say she wasn't tempted;
it would have been very interesting to find out all Barbara's
deep-down secrets - but she didn't. She asks Matt if he doesn't
believe her. Matt assures her that he does. Patricia
continues that she really is serious about changing her ways.
Matt tells her that she's off to a good start, then.
A while later, Patricia tells Matt that he hasn't heard all her
news yet. Matt asks what he's missed out on. Patricia replies
that if he ever gives up psychiatry, he could always set up an
employment agency! Matt smiles as he asks her if she got the job.
Patricia tells him, "Yep!" Matt asks her why she didn't
tell him earlier, and she replies that it was because she was
so busy facing the Spanish inquisition over some file she was
supposed to have read! Matt looks sheepish! Patricia thanks him
for pushing her into it, and they each raise their glasses and
say, "Cheers." Matt asks her when she starts. She replies
that it'll be in a few days. She then adds that she can just see
that some of her old friends are going to be looking down their
noses at her working as a receptionist. Matt tells her not to
worry about them, and Patricia says she won't - as far
as she's concerned, it's not a comedown but a new start.
Matt remarks that everything is working out well, and Patricia
agrees that it seems to be. Matt asks if, in that case, can she
stand one deep-and-meaningful? Patricia says she can't if it's
going to develop into something longwinded and tedious. Matt assures
her that it will only take three words: "I love you."
Patricia looks at him intently.
Gordon and Barbara are sitting at the table at Dural, having
finished dinner, and Gordon asks if there's any coffee left. Barbara
looks in the pot and says there's half a cup. Gordon says that'll
do! He then comments to his wife that he can't believe the change
- did seeing Matt make that much difference? Barbara says it's
marvellous, isn't it! She thanks Gordon for suggesting she see
him - it was the best thing she could have done. Gordon asks her
if she's going back for any more sessions, but she says she isn't.
She then adds that one good thing came out of today: she thinks
she can finally face Helen and Andy - she thought she might invite
them for dinner next week. Gordon, looking concerned, asks if
she isn't moving too fast. Barbara says she doesn't think so.
Gordon tells her that, in that case, he'll look forward to it.
Patricia tells Matt that it's the worst thing he could
have said. Matt replies that she knew how he felt - he just put
it into words. Patricia, though, says it makes all the difference;
it makes her feel she owes him something. She continues
that, for the first time in ages, if feels like she's Patricia
Dunne - not Hamilton or Morrell - just her; she's always
lived her life through men - always relised on them for something
- and always felt she had to give them something in return; and
now she's free of all that - it feels good. She continues
that she doesn't want to be involved - not yet, anyway; she wants
to be independent for a while. She asks Matt if he can understand
that, because the last thing she wants to do is hurt him. She
concludes that that's the way it is - she's sorry.
At Dural, Gordon asks Barbara if she's having an early night.
Barbara replies that she'll stack the dishwasher and then go to
bed. She picks up the dinner plates as the 'phone starts ringing.
Gordon says he'll get it, as he's expecting a call. He
answers the 'phone by saying, "Amanda?" Amanda warily
says, "Gordon..." Gordon tells her that he's not going
to argue. Amanda says that's good - because it'll be a waste of
time. She continues that she doesn't want an argument,
either - she knows what she's doing. As she talks, she doesn't
realise that Wayne has heard her and is standing at the top of
the stairs... She continues that she's made up her mind and that's
all there is to it. Gordon sighs and tells her that he doubts
she'll achieve anything. Amanda insists that she has to try.
Gordon asks where Wayne is now. Amanda replies that he's
gone to bed. She then asks why the question - is Gordon going
to tell his son what she's up to? Gordon says he should.
Amanda muses, "Maybe..." She then continues, though,
that she knows he won't; Wayne may be his son, but everyone knows
he wants nothing to do with him. At the stop of the stairs, a
thoughtful look crosses Wayne's face. Amanda then tells Gordon
that no matter what he says, if she does find Beryl's
Power of Attorney, he'll be smiling as much as she will.
Suddenly realising that he's being set-up, Wayne looks annoyed...
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