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21/09/2026

Ruth has concerns for a friend, and Brad is the topic of debate.

Ruth calls in at Glebe Cottage, waking Anna, who realises she’s late for court in Bristol. Ruth suggests that Anna should perhaps call in sick, or ask for compassionate leave. Anna says there’s no time to instruct alternative counsel, even if she wanted to. She accuses Ruth of interference when she tells Anna that her stress could affect the case and her career. When Anna returns home, Ruth is at Glebe. Ruth shares that she lost her mother very suddenly. Anna replies that Ruth’s mother was much younger and her death unexpected. Carol was 95 and in hospital. It’s very different circumstances and Anna is absolutely fine.

Brad is frustrated that the bus timetable has changed, meaning he’ll be late every day for his final Uni year. Brad wonders if Tracy would teach him to drive, like she did with Chelsea. Then he could use Tracy’s car, and Tracy could use the Riley, which is currently off the road in need of repair. Tracy feels she has to agree and Brad offers to update the insurance. Later she confides in Jazzer – Brad is wonderful but doesn’t have Chelsea’s co-ordination. Jazzer says that the Riley’s repair has defeated him and, with Jim’s blessing, should be sold. Brad announces that he’s updated the insurance and is ready for his first lesson. Jazzer steps in and offers to take him out. Brad returns from the lesson upbeat and confident, and goes to check out test applications, whereas Jazzer is shellshocked. He tells Tracy that Brad’s going to need a lot of practice.

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