26/05/2021

Lee’s grateful to Adam for dropping off some of Jennifer’s donated furniture. It’s so kind of Jennifer, when she has so much going on. He asks Adam for a second opinion on Jack’s newly painted bedroom. It’s done out in Spiderman colours, but they agree it looks very dark. Adam’s diplomatic about the finish and the shelves Lee’s put up using his new drill. He primes Ian before the two of them return to Beechwood later. They find an even worse scenario as Lee’s attempts to improve things have only exacerbated the situation. Ian pulls no punches on the paint job: Lee’s created Dracula’s man cave. Lee’s distraught. He wants to impress Helen’s boys but instead he’s letting them – and Helen – down. Kind-hearted Ian rashly offers to help with a makeover before Helen and the boys see it. Jennifer feels they’ve been part of Alice’s problem by normalising drinking. Brian disagrees. Jennifer feels helpless, and Ruairi steps in with an offer. He suggests Alice comes to Willow Cottage. He can move out to the Nest or in with friends. Brian and Jennifer don’t see this as an option – they don’t want him on his own at such a crucial time with his A level work. But they can definitely see the benefits of having Alice with them. It’s a conundrum – to which Brian thinks he might have a solution.