Two weeks later
THE VILLAGE - AFTERNOON
Caitlin pulls up in the car as Finn is passing with takeaway coffees, he stops as she gets out the car
FINN: Hey, you're back, how's it going?
CAITLIN: Ok I guess
FINN: No Milana?
CAITLIN: No, my brothers and their wives are all going over to France and taking the kids to Disneyland, she wanted to go so they're taking her as well and I figured she deserves a treat after the whole 'incident'
FINN: Why you not going with them?
CAITLIN: Well money's a bit tight, so I figured I should just come back and keep it coming in
FINN: Hmmm, seems a bit rough though that you can't share the experience with her, potentially once in a lifetime thing
Caitlin shrugs and smiles
FINN: Here, have a coffee to cheer yourself up
Finn hands a takeaway cup to Caitlin, Ross looks on from a distance
CAITLIN: Thanks, could do with a caffeine hit actually
FINN: So, have you heard from brother dearest since you've been away?
CAITLIN: I've checked in on his social media, but not exactly no, the whole texting, phone thing didn't really feel right somehow. I made the mistake of wearing my heart on my sleeve and venting my spleen of feelings at the hospital, I'm not really sure that it went down how I hoped it would
FINN: Well Melissa's out the picture, if that helps?
Caitlin looks pleased
CAITLIN: Hmmm, really?
FINN: Hmmm, yeah, she doesn't work at the nursery anymore, she got a job somewhere else
CAITLIN: Hmmm, well what a lucky escape the kids have had
FINN: Awe, that's a bit harsh don't you think?
CAITLIN: Oh come off it Finn, she was a little bit of an air head
FINN: Yeah well you don't have to be particularly intelligent for our Ross
Caitlin opens her mouth wide and smiles
CAITLIN: Awe thanks, who's side are you on?
FINN: The side of intelligence with sympathy for air heads
Finn and Caitlin both laugh
FINN: So is it just a coincidence that you've come back the week of his birthday?
CAITLIN: Is it his birthday, really?
Caitlin looks sarcastic
FINN: As if you didn't know
CAITLIN: I do have a present for him actually, I got it a while ago
FINN: So organised as always. We're having drinks in the pub, you should come
CAITLIN: Hmmm, maybe I should wait for an invitation from him first
FINN: Well he doesn't really know about it so that's not likely, it's a good way to reconnect with mum really
CAITLIN: Oh, so it's like a family thing then? Maybe I shouldn't come
Ross walks away and into Dale View cottage
FINN: No no, it's an anyone who wants to come thing and as his family are the only ones who like him, and you, we'll be the only people there
CAITLIN: Ok, so is it tomorrow then?
FINN: Yup, do you want me to knock on for you so you don't have to come over on your own?
Caitlin looks thoughtful
CAITLIN: Yeah, it might be less awkward
FINN: Ok, I'll come for you about 7.15
CAITLIN: Ok cool, see'ya in a bit
Caitlin locks her car as Finn walks away towards Dale View cottage
DALE VIEW COTTAGE – AFTERNOON
Finn enters the cottage as Ross sits at the breakfast bar
ROSS: What was all that about?
Finn frowns at Ross
FINN: And hello to you too
ROSS: You and Caitlin, was she talking about me?
FINN: Yeah, you're the only thing either of us think about. We were having a general chat actually, but yes you did come up in conversation, I know you didn't contact her while she was away
ROSS: I didn't have anything to say
Finn shakes his head and sips his coffee
FINN: I really don't know what she sees in you
ROSS: Where's mine?
Finn stares
ROSS: You gave it to Caitlin right?
FINN: She deserves it more than you
ROSS: Oh what, cause she got out of a car?
Ross claps his hands sarcastically
FINN: Pathetic
ROSS: Yeah yeah, whatever
OUTSIDE SMITHY COTTAGE - AFTERNOON
Caitlin stands waiting for the door to be answered, Rhona opens the door
RHONA: Hey, you're back, come in
Caitlin goes inside into the kitchen
RHONA: No Milana?
CAITLIN: No, she's at Disneyland. I just came to give you the money back that you lent me
Caitlin hands Rhona some bank notes
RHONA: Thanks, coffee?
CAITLIN: Nah I should get back, got to sort an appropriate-ish outfit out for tomorrow night
Caitlin smiles as Rhona stands with her arms folded
RHONA: Why, what's happening tomorrow night?
Caitlin sighs with uncertainty
Finn's asked me to Ross's birthday drinks in the pub
RHONA: Ah, do you think it's a good idea?
CAITLIN: Well I guess I can say happy birthday and see how it goes
RHONA: Do you want me to come as a backup?
Caitlin looks thoughtful
CAITLIN: Yeah, guess you can save me from looking desperate
RHONA: That's what mates are for
Caitlin laughs
CAITLIN: I'll get going, but Finn's knocking on about 7.15 tomorrow
RHONA: Ok, see you in the pub
Caitlin walks out the kitchen and out the front door, Aaron is walking past and stops when he sees Caitlin
AARON: Hey, when did you get back?
Caitlin walks over to him
CAITLIN: Today, not long ago actually
They kiss each other on the cheek and hug briefly
AARON: How's Milana, where is Milana?
CAITLIN: Fine, my brothers took her to Disneyland, they were going with their families and she wanted to go
Aaron nods
CAITLIN: I'm just heading home if you wanna walk down with me?
Aaron and Caitlin start walking in the direction of Tall Trees cottage
CAITLIN: Hey, why did we never do that?
AARON: Do what?
CAITLIN: Disneyland, I mean we were there
AARON: Dunno, money, never really thought to do it
CAITLIN: Hmmm, I dunno, it just feels weird that she's doing it with other people, seems like something parents should do with kids
AARON: Oh I don't know, as long as she gets to go it counts and you never know, we might take her one day ourselves
Caitlin laughs
CAITLIN: Huh, yeah right, in the dreams
There's silence for a few seconds
AARON: Hmmm, so what you doing back and not in France then?
CAITLIN: Eh, this thing called money Aaron, I don't know if you've heard of it but I kind of need to earn it
AARON: Right, so nothing to do with Ross then?
Caitlin doesn't respond
AARON: He really doesn't treat you very well, I think you should do yourself a favour and just steer clear of him you know, I mean it seems like he just uses you for sex whenever he feels like it anyway
Caitlin looks offended as they stop at the front of the cottage, she puts her hands in the back pockets of her jeans and becomes confrontational towards Aaron
CAITLIN: Oh ok, and you treated me better did you? You didn't use me for sex pretending to be straight did you? Cause you know that's kind've how Milana happened, I mean which title do you prefer, sperm donor or baby daddy?
Aaron looks surprised and awkward as James and Pete walk towards them from the opposite direction, looking equally awkward
CAITLIN: No you've got nothing to say to that have you cause it's true, and the only good thing to come out of us was Milana, and even that doesn't feel that good
Aaron frowns, and James and Pete look on in surprise
AARON: Well what's that supposed to mean?
Caitlin looks awkward as they've both realised James and Pete are nearby
CAITLIN: It means maybe I should've had her with someone else or not at all
Caitlin stares at Aaron as they all look on surprised, Caitlin brushes past Aaron and goes into the garden, she turns back
CAITLIN: Oh and by the way, me and Ross are none of your business, so just keep your opinions to yourself
Caitlin carries on up the garden and into the cottage as James and Pete approach Aaron
JAMES: She probably didn't mean any of that mate
AARON: She sounded pretty brutal on it
PETE: She really should take your advice on Ross though, he uses everyone for his own personal gain, there's gotta be something in it for him
James puts his hand on Aaron's upper arm
JAMES: Come on mate, we'll buy you a pint
Aaron, James and Pete walk off as Caitlin angrily watches them leave out of a window
THE WOOLPACK – AFTERNOON
Aaron, James and Pete walk in as Chas is standing at the bar
CHAS: Hey
PETE: Hey, three pints please Chas
Chas looks at Aaron wondering what is wrong
CHAS: What's wrong with your face?
AARON: Did Caitlin have a personality transplant and we just didn't notice?
PETE: No she just had an unfortunate Ross lobotomy
Chas looks on curiously
JAMES: Eh, she said some unusual things when Aaron tried to warn her off Ross
CHAS: Such as?
Aaron goes to speak but James cuts him off
JAMES: I don't think it's worth talking about, I just don't think she's herself and she just came out with things she didn't mean, she's probably tired if she just got back
CHAS: What did she say?
James and Pete look at each other
JAMES: Aaron seemed to suggest Ross was using her for sex and she said that Aaron used her and the only good thing to come out of it was Milana, that she probably should've had her with someone else, or not at all
Chas looks amazed
CHAS: Right, well I'm going over to have a word
Chas moves from behind the bar, James goes round to stop her from being able to leave
JAMES: Just leave it, she wouldn't have meant it, it was a spur of the moment reaction to Aaron interfering
CHAS: I'm not having her acting like a vicious little cow running her mouth off
JAMES: And you getting into an argument with her will help how exactly?
Chas looks at James, knowing he's right, she relents
CHAS: I'll get your pints, but she can look out when I do see her
James goes back round next to Pete and Aaron
JAMES: Are you coming in here tomorrow night?
PETE: I come in here most nights, why?
JAMES: Well Finn's organised drinks for Ross's birthday, did he not tell you?
Aaron shakes his head
PETE: I'll come for Finn cause he organised it, not for Ross
JAMES: Fair enough, it'll be a nice family get together
Chas puts the pints up on the bar, James hands her money and points to Aaron
JAMES: Treating him
Chas smiles and goes over to the till, she goes back to the bar with James' change
CHAS: So you're all coming in here tomorrow then?
JAMES: Yeah, Finn might take Ross on somewhere else after
CHAS: Yeah well we've got a hen and stag on in here tomorrow night
PETE: Ah so it'll be worth coming for the talent then?
Chas looks unimpressed at Pete
PETE: Not that there isn't anything nice already to look at in here
CHAS: Yeah, well I was gonna ask Caitlin to do a shift, but if that's the way she's being I think I'll find someone else
JAMES: Oh come on, that's not fair, she's got a kid, she could use the money
AARON: Yeah, a kid she doesn't want and a kid she doesn't want with me apparently, not exactly fair on Milana
Rhona is approaching the bar as Aaron talks about Caitlin, she looks confused
RHONA: You're not talking about Caitlin, are you?
Aaron looks round
AARON: Well I wouldn't be talking about anyone else would I?
RHONA: Well don't be ridiculous, she wouldn't say anything like that
PETE: She did, we were there
Rhona looks surprised
RHONA: Well you must've misheard surely
AARON: "Maybe I should've had her with someone else or not at all" doesn't really sound like I misheard it
Rhona is taken aback
RHONA: Well I was gonna have a drink, but I think I'll go and talk to her instead
Rhona turns round and leaves as Aaron shakes his head and sips his pint
TALL TREES COTTAGE – AFTERNOON
Caitlin is standing looking at some outfits she's thrown on the back of the couch, trying to decide which one to wear for Ross's birthday when there's a knock at the door, it opens, Rhona stands in the doorway
CAITLIN: Oh hey, good timing, I'm just picking my outfit for tomorrow, you can help me decide, do you want a drink, I'm getting one?
Caitlin goes into the kitchen and takes a bottle of wine out of the fridge and two glasses out of the cupboard as Rhona stands quietly in the doorway, Caitlin looks at her wondering what she's looking at her for
CAITLIN: Something wrong?
RHONA: Well I don't know, you tell me. "Maybe I should've had her with someone else or not at all"
Caitlin looks embarrassed
CAITLIN: Ok, so you've seen Aaron
Rhona walks over to the worktop
RHONA: Yeah, and he was upset, I can't say I blame him
Caitlin swings her head to the side, Rhona widens her eyes, waiting for an explanation
RHONA: So, are you gonna tell me what it was about?
Caitlin pours the wine into the glasses and hands Rhona one
CAITLIN: I don't know, he wound me up, I opened my mouth and words just started coming out
RHONA: Well he must've wound you up a hell of a lot for you to say something like that
Caitlin takes her glass and walks back into the living room, she sits on the couch, Rhona follows and sits next to her
CAITLIN: He just stuck his two cense worth in about Ross, I'm so sick of hearing everyone's opinions
RHONA: Yeah, cause it's opinions you don't wanna hear I bet
CAITLIN: I'm just sick of listening to everyone about it, he just hit a nerve
RHONA: Must've been a pretty big nerve
Caitlin shrugs as Rhona squints her eyes
RHONA: You know have you thought that you might be investing a little bit too much time on trying to win Ross back, I mean is he really worth all the effort?
Caitlin raises her shoulders defensively
CAITLIN: I love him Rhona, I don't want anyone else, I'm just so into him
RHONA: Yeah, but he seems to be struggling with the concept of forgiveness no matter what you say or do and I'm worried that your split with him has affected you more than you realise, I mean your outburst to Aaron, that isn't you, you're a great mum, and surprisingly he's not a bad dad, so what would make you say that?
Caitlin gets up from the couch and goes round the other side of the coffee table
CAITLIN: Maybe it was just a reaction to how I feel
Rhona looks confused
RHONA: Well what does that mean?
Caitlin looks thoughtful
CAITLIN: I don't have the money that I want to be able to raise her and mostly all the money I do have goes on her, I scrape enough for digs and food and I'm lucky to have anything left for myself
RHONA: Yeah, you and millions of other mothers, join the club, that doesn't make you different
Caitlin looks at Rhona
CAITLIN: It does if you don't even know how you feel about your child
Rhona looks shocked
CAITLIN: Milana exists, but not in the way that I imagined and because of that I just find her a chore. I look forward to her not being around, and I can't help thinking that if I'd had her with someone like Ross it might be different
Rhona looks stunned as she listens to Caitlin
CAITLIN: I'm saying I resent my child Rhona cause of the way she was conceived, she irritates me, she bores me, and I don't know if that will ever change, if I will ever feel differently and sometimes I just think she'd be better off living with someone else
Caitlin looks upset
CAITLIN: So there, do you still think I'm a great mum? Cause I think that makes me a selfish bitch who never got over the father of her child turning out to be gay
Caitlin drinks the whole glass of wine and walks into the kitchen to pour another, she goes back into the living room and sits on a chair as Rhona stares at her in complete shock
RHONA: How long have you felt like this?
CAITLIN: I dunno, I think I've buried it for a long time, I always knew deep down that something just never felt right, but I couldn't put my finger on it, then I started concentrating more on relationships so I didn't have to focus as much on Milana
RHONA: Right, but you must've felt something when she was in hospital, right?
CAITLIN: I worried, I care about her and I didn't want Dougal to get away with it, but I just don't feel like I have that natural instinct that you're meant to have as a mother, I wasn't really worried when I was told she was there, I was pretty dismissive actually, then I saw her there and I kind of panicked, but when she recovered and came home I was more interested in Ross than I was her, that isn't right or normal being bored and disinterested in your own child
RHONA: And you think it's to do with Aaron being gay?
CAITLIN: I dunno, maybe if we were doing it all, raising her as a couple, together, I would feel different and then I had a scare recently and I was kind of happy at the thought of having a child with a straight guy, as part of a couple, but then I panicked thinking that I thought Aaron was straight and that things might turn out the same way with Ross
RHONA: Yeah I seriously don't think you've got anything to worry about with Ross, we can safely say women are definitely his thing, just not sure the whole kids thing is though, I mean he's got a cute bond with April, but she's not his so that's a dip in and out thing
CAITLIN: Yeah and he's so cute with Milana, that's part of the reason I wanted it to work
Rhona stares at Caitlin
RHONA: What you wanna be with Ross cause he makes you want to be a mother to your own child? That's not a reason to be with someone
CAITLIN: No, he makes me a more genuine mother, that can't be a bad thing, and I love him and I'm really attracted to him, I mean who isn't? He's so fit, you just wanna rip his clothes off him every time you see him
RHONA: Hmmm, you speak for yourself
Caitlin looks embarrassed
CAITLIN: I know I sound like an awful person, I just can't help it
RHONA: You don't wish that she'd never been born though do you?
CAITLIN: I just wish I'd had her with someone else sometimes and sometimes I do wonder what it would've been like if I hadn't had her, I mean there's so much I want to do and sometimes I do feel tied down
RHONA: Have you thought of seeing a counsellor?
CAITLIN: Not really, never thought it'd help
Rhona's phone beebs, she looks at it
CAITLIN: Do you have to go?
Rhona looks up at Caitlin
RHONA: Kind of yeah
CAITLIN: No worries
Rhona gets up and moves towards the door
RHONA: But we haven't finished, we need to talk more about all of this, I really think I can help you, so don't worry
Rhona and Caitlin smile at each other, she leaves, Caitlin's smile fades as she thinks deeply about her confession to Rhona
The following day
DALE VIEW COTTAGE – MORNING
Finn is drinking coffee and reading a paper at the breakfast bar when Ross enters from upstairs
ROSS: Hey little bro, what's for breakfast?
FINN: Morning, happy birthday and I made you scrambled eggs and toast, they're keeping warm under the grill
ROSS: Awe nice one, cheers
Ross pulls out the grill tray and takes out the plate, he gets some cutlery from the drainer and sits at the opposite end of the breakfast bar
ROSS: So is that it then, do I not get a present?
FINN: I got you some music shop vouchers and some beers
Ross looks deflated
FINN: Well you know, you're not the easiest to buy for and I'll buy you some drinks later as well, when I take you to the pub
Ross looks happier
ROSS: Sweet, so is it just the two of us, or…
FINN: There might be a surprise for you
ROSS: And there's you saying you're crap with presents
FINN: Well it won't be wrapped, but I think you'll like it
Finn smiles at Ross as there's a knock at the door, James enters
JAMES: Hey, happy birthday son
Ross looks at James, he hands him a card
ROSS: Cheers
James eyes up Ross's breakfast
JAMES: That looks good, is there any left?
Ross puts the fork to his mouth with scrambled egg on it and eats it
ROSS: Nut
James has an un-surprised look on his face
JAMES: Right, well I'll see you later then
FINN: See you later dad
James shuts the door behind him, Finn looks at Ross
FINN: Could you be any more unpleasant?
Ross looks at Finn
ROSS: What? I thanked him
Finn shakes his head as Ross opens his card, a twenty pound note falls on to the counter
ROSS: Nice one, more drinking money, well actually I won't even have to spend it if other people are just gonna buy me drinks all day
Ross smiles
FINN: I'm going for a shower, it's preferable to sitting here with you, yes, before you say it, even on your birthday Ross
Ross's phone beebs, he sees it's a text from Caitlin, he opens it:
Happy birthday, have a good day x
Ross sighs, looking thoughtful, he eats another mouthful of scrambled egg and toast
TALL TREES COTTAGE – MORNING
Caitlin is sitting on the couch drinking coffee and looking at her phone, wondering if Ross will message her back when there's a knock at the door and Rhona walks in
RHONA: Hey, how you feeling today?
CAITLIN: Ok. Just texted Ross to say happy birthday
Rhona exasperates
RHONA: I think you need to stop clinging on to the hope that you've got a future with him and concentrate on sorting yourself out
CAITLIN: Yeah, but he made me happy, we made each other happy and it made things better with Milana, I cope better with her in a relationship than I do when it's just the two of us
Rhona looks dismayed
RHONA: Yeah, but you can't depend on a relationship with a guy because you think he's keeping your relationship with your daughter at a good level, you need to be able to do that yourself cause you are in effect, a single mother
Rhona hands Caitlin a card
RHONA: It's the contact details of the counsellor who helped me deal with things with Leo
Caitlin reluctantly takes the card
CAITLIN: I'll think about it. Do you want a coffee?
RHONA: I've gotta get to work, but I really think you need to talk about this. I'll see you in the pub tonight and we can chat more. See you later
Rhona leaves, Caitlin looks fed up
THE WOOLPACK – EVENING
Ross walks in to the pub, he sees James, Emma and Pete sitting at a table and goes over to join them
ROSS: I take it this was Finn's idea?
PETE: Well it wouldn't have been mine that's for sure
Ross looks sarcastically at Pete
ROSS: So where is he then?
JAMES: Said he'd see us in here
Rhona walks in and goes towards the bar
RHONA: Hey, is Caitlin here?
DIANE: Haven't seen her no
RHONA: Well I'll just grab a white wine then please
DIANE: Right
Finn walks in followed by Caitlin. Ross, Emma, James and Pete spot them
ROSS: Oh please don't tell me that's my present
Pete shakes his head as he sips his pint
PETE: No idea what she sees in you, no matter what she does you're just not interested, why don't you just tell her that instead of just using her whenever you feel like it?
ROSS: Who asked you?
Finn and Caitlin approach the table
CAITLIN: Hey
Ross smiles awkwardly
CAITLIN: Eh, happy birthday
Caitlin smiles and hands Ross a card, he takes it
ROSS: Thanks, yeah I got your text
CAITLIN: Good. Do you want a drink?
ROSS: I've got one, thanks anyway
Everyone feels awkward
JAMES: Do you wanna join us?
CAITLIN: Eh
Caitlin looks at Ross for approval
ROSS: Where's Milana?
Caitlin and Finn sit down at the side of the table
CAITLIN: Disneyland
EMMA: Nice, why you not with her?
CAITLIN: Well I had to come back to work so, anyway, she's with my brothers families so she'll be fine
EMMA: Sure it would've been nice for you to be there though
CAITLIN: Pretty sure she'll enjoy it if I'm there or not really, she won't even notice
PETE: Don't tell me mother, you've sniffed out another candidate for mother of the year, or decade in your case, I mean I guess it'd take one to know one
Everyone looks at Pete in surprise
CAITLIN: Eh, sorry, what's that meant to mean?
PETE: Nothing, just going off your little outburst to Aaron yesterday, you practically said you wished she didn't exist
Caitlin looks annoyed at Pete
CAITLIN: You know what, when you've actually got kids yourself, I might take advice from you, till then, why don't you mind your own business?
Caitlin gets up from the table and looks at Ross
CAITLIN: Enjoy the rest of your birthday
Caitlin walks away, she talks to Rhona as she walks past
CAITLIN: Going home and I don't want company
Rhona looks on as Caitlin leaves the pub, she looks over at the Bartons, the hen and stag dos enter, Ross eyes up the hens
ROSS: Are they my present Finn? I like it
Finn looks round
FINN: No but I might treat myself to a stag later
Pete laughs
PETE: Just make sure it's not the groom
JAMES: Does no-one care that Caitlin's left and she's been upset?
ROSS: Oh she's always upset about something, she'll be fine
JAMES: Never mind mother of the year, are you going for boyfriend of the year?
ROSS: I'm not her boyfriend
James shakes his head
JAMES: I'm gonna get some nuts and crisps
EMMA: Yeah and I'm just going to nip to the loo
Emma and James leave the table
ROSS: Wow, if you wanna empty a place, just ask Pete to do it
PETE: You're the one that last spoke and you don't have the first clue about anything
Pete and Ross look angrily at each other
FINN: Guys please, do you really have to argue on his birthday?
PETE: It doesn't matter what day of the year it is Finn, he'll still be irritating. He thinks he knows about mum and he thinks he knows about Caitlin, he doesn't even give a toss about her, she doesn't give a toss about her kid just like mum didn't give a toss about him, or us
ROSS: WHY DON'T YOU STOP TALKING IN RIDDLES AND JUST SAY WHAT YOU WANNA SAY?
Pete leans forward
PETE: Mum tried to kill you, if it wasn't for dad you probably wouldn't still be alive, she was smothering you with a pillow, and that's the reason she left us, dad kicked her out that night
Ross and Finn look stunned
ROSS: You're lying
PETE: I was there, I saw everything
FINN: Why would she do that? She's our mum
Pete sips his pint
PETE: Cause she's off her head, much as he is
Ross glares at Pete as James and Emma return to the table, James puts crisps and nuts down, all three boys stare at them
JAMES: What?
Ross looks angry
ROSS: Is it true?
James and Emma look confused
JAMES: Is what true?
ROSS: Is it true that she tried to kill me and that's the reason why she left?
James and Emma look dumbstruck, realising that it's true, Ross looks at them in disgust and ebruptly leaves, Emma rushes after him and follows him back into Dale View cottage
DALE VIEW COTTAGE - EVENING
EMMA: Ross, please let me explain?
Ross looks out the living room window, he laughs insincerely
ROSS: You think there's an explanation for trying to kill your own kid?
EMMA: I was under a lot of pressure, your dad wasn't much help, he spent most of the time in the pub or with Moira for all I knew, I was at the end of my rope
ROSS: Oh so you thought you'd just lighten the load a bit?
EMMA: I had post natal depression, they just didn't have a name for it then
Ross turns round looking confused
ROSS: Isn't that like a new baby thing? Why was it me you went for and not Finn?
Emma becomes upset
EMMA: It shouldn't have been any of you, I know that, I just snapped and lost it
Ross shakes his head
ROSS: I guess I should be thankful dad was there to stop you or I wouldn't be here now for you to try to justify yourself to
EMMA: I didn't want to hurt you, any of you, I couldn't help it
Ross shakes his head
ROSS: I can't listen to anymore of this, you need to be gone by the time I get back
Ross walks over to the kitchen, grabbing a bottle of whisky from a tray with bottles on it, he goes out the door, slamming it behind him
A couple of hours later
TALL TREES COTTAGE – EVENING
Caitlin is sitting watching TV and fiddling with her phone as she drinks wine when she hears a noise outside, she looks over towards the door, but dismisses it quickly, a couple of minutes pass before there is an extremely loud knock at the door, she looks over, putting her phone down on the coffee table she gets up and goes over cautiously towards the door, she opens it, stepping into the porch she see's Ross through the glass, she reluctantly opens the door, frowning at him as he is clearly visibly very drunk, he sways as he holds on to the door frame
CAITLIN: Ross, what are you doing here? It's late. I thought you were having birthday drinks?
ROSS: (Slurs) Sorry, I fell on your bins and knocked them over
Caitlin continues to frown
CAITLIN: Wow, I was right about the drinks, how many have you had? You're incredibly drunk
Ross continues to sway and slur his speech, he throws up his hand with the bottle of whisky in it to show her
ROSS: Not drunk enough cause I'm not numb yet
CAITLIN: Whisky, all to yourself, greedy. Why have you drunk so much?
Ross falls through the door, Caitlin rolls her eyes, she looks down at him, she bends down to help him up and puts him through the inside door into the living room as she closes the front door, she goes inside, Ross is slumped on the edge of the couch with the bottle of whisky, Caitlin goes over to him
CAITLIN: Well you won't be needing any more of this
She pulls the bottle out of his hand, Ross puts his eyes up to look at her
CAITLIN: What's going on Ross, what are you doing here?
ROSS: You're the only thing that makes sense
Caitlin widens her eyes looking at him
CAITLIN: Well you don't, look at the state of you, you're drunk and you're freezing, so I'm gonna go and make you a coffee and something to eat while you think about it ok?
Ross falls back on the couch as Caitlin grabs her phone before heading into the kitchen, Ross turns his head to the side, noticing the glass of wine on the coffee table, he sits up, he picks up the glass and gulps the wine down in one, he looks over at the kitchen before getting up, glass in hand he goes towards the kitchen, staggering into the drawers on his way
CAITLIN: Ross, what are you doing? Just go and sit down will you? You're safer that way
ROSS: I thought you'd want your wine glass
Caitlin looks at the wine glass and at Ross
CAITLIN: Eh I would've preferred it to still be full
Caitlin is annoyed as she grabs the glass off Ross and puts it in the sink, as he slouches on the counter, she goes back over to where she is making Ross a sandwich
CAITLIN: So are you gonna tell me what all this is about?
ROSS: Came to see you
CAITLIN: Oh, well should I be honoured? It's just you didn't seem that interested in me at the pub, so excuse me if I don't believe you
ROSS: Has anyone ever told you you talk way too much?
Ross goes behind Caitlin, putting his hands on her waist, he kisses her on the neck
ROSS: Can I have my present now?
CAITLIN: Do you wanna wear this sandwich?
ROSS: I actually fancy a scrambled egg
CAITLIN: I think you're scrambled enough
Caitlin turns round and grabs Ross's arms
CAITLIN: Ross, what's going on?
Ross looks reluctant
ROSS: Pete shot his big mouth off
Caitlin shakes her head, frowning
CAITLIN: Right, well that's nothing unusual is it?
ROSS: Except it was the first time he's ever said that my mother tried to kill me
Caitlin looks shocked and intrigued, she shakes her head, confused
CAITLIN: What?
ROSS: It's why she left
Caitlin continues to frown
CAITLIN: Look just go and sit down over there and I'll get us a coffee and we can talk properly
Ross makes his way over to the dining table, slumping himself into a chair as Caitlin waits for the kettle to boil, she makes percolator coffee and takes it and the sandwich over to the table and sits down next to Ross
CAITLIN: What do you mean about your mum?
ROSS: Pete was winding everyone up as usual, mum and dad left the table and then he said the night that she left she tried to smother me and that dad saved me
CAITLIN: Wow that's… Have you spoken to her?
ROSS: She didn't deny it when I said it to them and then she came running home after me trying to explain, that's when I left and here I am
CAITLIN: And where did the ocean of whisky come into it?
ROSS: Took it before I left the house
CAITLIN: So what did she say?
ROSS: Reckons dad wasn't around enough and she had post natal depression
Ross slurps the coffee and bites the sandwich
CAITLIN: Yeah well it does happen sometimes after birth
ROSS: I was two, it took a long time to kick in
CAITLIN: Yeah but she would've just had Finn wouldn't she?
ROSS: So she has Finn but tries to kill me and not him, how does that work?
CAITLIN: I don't know Ross I wasn't there
Caitlin's phone beebs
CAITLIN: Finish that, I'll just go and answer that, be back in a sec
Caitlin goes into the living room, pulling her phone out of her dressing gown pocket, she texts Finn
Hey, Ross is with me,
don't worry, looking after him
She looks at the picture message she received, a picture comes up of Milana with her cousin's at Disneyland, Caitlin smiles, heading back into the kitchen and back to the table
ROSS: You make a great sandwich
Caitlin smiles at Ross
CAITLIN: I've always made a great sandwich
Ross smiles back at Caitlin
CAITLIN: You should go and sleep it off, we can talk properly in the morning
Ross looks sad
ROSS: I can't go home, not while she's there
CAITLIN: It's ok, you can stay here, you can sleep in Arthur's room, I'll go and change the sheets
Caitlin smiles at Ross and gets up from the table, she leaves the kitchen, Ross looks miserable
A few minutes later
Caitlin re-enters the kitchen
CAITLIN: All ready for you
Caitlin walks back over to the table, she's taken aback to see Ross crying
CAITLIN: Hey
Caitlin crouches down, she comforts Ross
ROSS: What's wrong with me? I mean there must be something wrong with me
CAITLIN: There's nothing wrong with you, it wouldn't have been a conscious thing, you were just there, wrong place, wrong time, it's not your fault
Caitlin stands up
CAITLIN: Look, I've gotta go to bed cause I've got a shift tomorrow, do you need anything else before I go up?
Ross shakes his head
CAITLIN: Ok, well there's spare tooth brushes in the bathroom cabinet and the towel's are in the airing cupboard if you wanna have a shower, I'll see you in the morning
Caitlin and Ross smile at each other, Ross grabs her arm as she walks away, he looks up at her
ROSS: Thanks
CAITLIN: It's ok, bill's in the post
They smile at each other again
CAITLIN: In fact I might treat myself to another glass of wine, you know, since you nicked the last one?
Caitlin goes over to the fridge, she pulls the bottle of wine out of the door and grabs a glass from the drainer
CAITLIN: Oh to hell with it, I'll take the rest of the bottle up with me
Caitlin goes out of the kitchen, leaving Ross alone
An hour later
Caitlin is lying in bed reading a magazine, she sips her wine, she looks up, bored, she turns her head to look at the clock, she throws the magazine on the floor and puts the glass on the bedside table, as she is about to put out the light there's a light tap on the door, Ross enters
CAITLIN: Hey, you ok?
Ross stands in the doorway in a t-shirt and boxers
ROSS: I don't wanna be on my own
Caitlin smiles sympathetically, she stretches her arm over and pulls back the duvet, Ross comes in and goes round to the other side of the bed, Caitlin dims the bedside lamp as Ross climbs in, she pulls the duvet tightly over them both as they both lie on their sides facing each other, they smile at each other, but remain silent. Caitlin stretches her arm around to get her phone, she clicks on the photo her brother sent her of Milana at Disneyland
CAITLIN: Check this out, cute hey?
Caitlin turns the phone to show Ross the picture, he smiles
ROSS: You're a mother, can you ever imagine doing that to her?
CAITLIN: Every mother can get that angry, it doesn't have to be down to PND, she's wound me up, I'm not a role model mother, I'm not a good mother at all
Ross frowns
ROSS: Yes you are, you're an amazing mother
CAITLIN: No, no I'm not, I'm just looking after this rug rat snapping at my heels, it makes me feel tied and I do feel like strangling her, I think it's cause I'm a single mother and her dad turning out to be gay really didn't help at all
ROSS: Yeah but you've never felt like actually killing her have you?
CAITLIN: There's been times I could've, but it's just a feeling, I never actually did anything about it, you just have a great big long scream out the back door and carry on
ROSS: And that's obviously the difference between you and my mother
CAITLIN: I don't think I ever had PND, but I had some low moments after she was born cause everything with Aaron was still pretty raw
ROSS: You're always so cute together, like a little team
Caitlin smiles
CAITLIN: It's pretty much all a front, trust me
ROSS: Well you make it look easy
CAITLIN: Yeah and that's half the problem, we all put on a show every minute of everyday but we're all screaming out from the inside out
Ross smiles, he takes Caitlin's phone and looks at the photo again
ROSS: She's got your eyes, you've got beautiful brown eyes
Caitlin looks as if she's thinking
CAITLIN: Well they're hazel actually, but I'll take that
Ross and Caitlin both smile at each other for a few seconds as he flips the phone down on the duvet, Ross moves his head towards Caitlin's, they kiss each other for several seconds, Caitlin stops
CAITLIN: We should go to sleep
Caitlin takes her phone off the duvet and puts it on the bedside table, switching the light out, she turns on her side, keeping her back to Ross
A little while later
Caitlin is lying on her right side sleeping, Ross is lying on his back wide awake trying to fight back tears in his eyes, he looks round at Caitlin, turning, he puts his arm around her, kissing her neck, she turns her head sleepily, they kiss, she turns round, grappling with each others clothes he climbs on top of her, she wraps her arms around his neck, sliding down to his back, his hands move down her body as they make love
TALL TREES COTTAGE – MORNING
Caitlin is in the kitchen making breakfast when Ross walks in from upstairs
CAITLIN: Hey
ROSS: Hey
They smile at each other. Ross goes over and sits at the dining table as Caitlin gets the coffee pot and plates up poached eggs, she takes the coffee and plates over to the table, she puts the coffee in the middle and a plate in front of Ross and puts the other plate in front of her as she sits down
CAITLIN: So, did you eventually manage to sleep?
She smiles awkwardly
ROSS: Must've
CAITLIN: Coffee?
ROSS: Yeah
Caitlin pours coffee into a mug in front of Ross
CAITLIN: So what are you gonna do today? You going into work?
ROSS: Nah, sacking it off for the day. Actually, do you mind if I stay here a bit longer? I just don't think I can face going back home yet
CAITLIN: Sure, Marlon and Laurel won't be back for a while yet, they're helping her sister out in Lytham and I think Marlon's got a temporary chef's job in the local
They smile at each other again
CAITLIN: Do you want me to go and get you some stuff from the house?
ROSS: I'll text Finn
Ross takes his phone out of his trouser pocket and goes to send a text to Finn
ROSS: Or not, battery's dead
CAITLIN: It's ok, I'll go over before I head to work
ROSS: Thanks
Ross sips his coffee as Caitlin eats her egg
CAITLIN: So you think you'll get to a point where you can face talking to your mum then? Cause you know I think you do need to have a conversation, probably as a family because you won't remember and your mum, dad and Pete obviously do and you should probably hear what they have to say
Ross looks reluctant
ROSS: Yeah well whatever happens it won't be today anyway
CAITLIN: Ok, well, just as long as you're not shutting yourself off to it that's all
Caitlin smiles at him reassuringly
CAITLIN: So are you just planning to lounge around here while I go off to work then, lazy sod?
Ross squints his eyes
ROSS: It takes a lot of hard work and skill to watch Loose Women actually
They laugh
Ross sips his coffee
ROSS: So, about last night…
CAITLIN: Yeah, I know, as nice as it was, it was a one off thing, doesn't mean anything, you don't have to say it all
Ross looks surprised
ROSS: Well I wasn't gonna say any of that actually
Caitlin looks confused and intrigued
CAITLIN: Okaaay
ROSS: Look, my head's mashed, but all I know is I want us to be back together again, there's enough messed up crap in life and I don't wanna stuff around anymore
Caitlin looks surprised
CAITLIN: But I thought you hated me because of your mum
ROSS: I was angry, but maybe Finn might never have found her and I would never know the truth
Caitlin frowns
CAITLIN: What you think it's a good thing finding out what your mum did?
ROSS: It's better than being lied to my whole life
CAITLIN: Yeah but your dad and Pete wouldn't have been doing that maliciously, it would be to protect you, I don't think I'd find that an easy conversation to ever have either so I totally get it
ROSS: Yeah well I still think they should've told me before, but it's out there now so better late than never I guess
CAITLIN: You're being very reasonable about it, it's very eh, un-Ross like
ROSS: Yeah well, you make sense of situations more than me
CAITLIN: Well I hardly said anything last night cause you were drunk and I'm pretty sure what we did wasn't making sense of anything
ROSS: You were there, and it counts
They smile at each other as Ross drinks his coffee
ROSS: So what time do you finish? I'll get us a takeaway
Caitlin slurps her coffee and takes a mouthful of egg
CAITLIN: About 8 I think, you can get some wine as well
ROSS: Hmmm
CAITLIN: What?
ROSS: Well I was planning on getting you to get the takeaway
CAITLIN: Oh I see, are you just gonna stay indoors and never go out? I'll tell you what, I'll come back, we can order and go and pick it up together
ROSS: Is that the way you speak to your patients? That's a very bossy bedside manner
CAITLIN: Only the annoying ones and you've already sampled my beside manner, more than once, I don't recall any complaints
ROSS: Well I hope you don't go round sleeping with all your patients cause you know that'd just be awkward
She laughs
CAITLIN: Not for the want of them trying
ROSS: Wow, and you say I've got tickets on myself
Caitlin gets up and goes over to the sink with her dishes, shse turns, leaning on the worktop
CAITLIN: Hey, not my fault I'm irresistible
Ross goes over to the sink with his dishes
CAITLIN: So you'll be alright here on your own then?
ROSS: I think so, I'm big boy now
CAITLIN: Yeah, I'm pretty aware of that
Ross pulls Caitlin towards him
ROSS: Eh, which reminds me, have you got time for anything else before you go?
He leans down and kisses her neck
CAITLIN: Hmmm, well it depends what you've got in mind
ROSS: Well what I've got in mind'll only take 10 minutes
CAITLIN: Oh really? I'm honoured. I'll tell you what, I'll come home at lunch time and interrupt 10 minutes of your Loose Women viewing, how's that?
ROSS: Not if Ruth Langsford's on, but then again there's always the ad breaks
CAITLIN: Oh so that's what the ad breaks are for? So all the viewers can have 3 minutes of frisky time, here 3 minutes each ad break, you could knock a minute off your record
She laughs
CAITLIN: Nah, I did a click and collect thing last night, was planning on picking it up on my way into work, but I'll see you tonight
They cuddle each other as there's a knock at the door, Rhona walks in and see's them, Caitlin looks round, she and Rhona look equally surprised
CAITLIN: Hey
Ross looks round as he they stop cuddling each other
RHONA: Hey, just popped in for a chat
ROSS: Do you mind if I grab a shower?
CAITLIN: No, go for it
Ross smiles as he walks past Rhona, Caitlin goes past Rhona into the living room, she takes her jacket off the stairs and puts it on as she grabs her bag off the table and opens the door, Rhona follows
RHONA: Are you leaving so you don't have to talk to me?
CAITLIN: No I'm going over to Ross's to get some stuff for him
RHONA: So, what, are you and him back together now?
CAITLIN: Looks like it. Something happened last night, I can't tell you what but he came here because of it and things just happened from there
RHONA: Yeah I got some weird vibe from their table after you left then Ross left and Emma went after him
CAITLIN: Yeah well I'm heading over there now if you wanna walk with me?
RHONA: Sure
Caitlin opens the door, she and Rhona walk out, they talk as they go down the path
RHONA: So did you make an appointment?
CAITLIN: Well I haven't exactly had a chance have I? Anyway I don't need to
RHONA: What, because you think Ross is gonna solve all your problems for you? It looks like he's got enough of his own
CAITLIN: Yeah and I'm trying to help him right now
They stop walking
RHONA: And sleeping with him helps either of you how exactly?
Caitlin looks embarrassed
RHONA: You know maybe you should help yourself before you think about helping other people, just a thought
Rhona looks empathetically at Caitlin before she walks away, leaving her thinking
DALE VIEW COTTAGE – MORNING
Caitlin knocks on the door, Finn opens it, he steps aside letting her in
CAITLIN: Hey, I just came round to get a few things for Ross, he was gonna text, but his battery's died, so here I am
They go into the living room
FINN: Is he ok, does he not want to see us?
CAITLIN: Eh, well I don't think he wanted to come back whilst Emma's here, he told me everything, he was in a bit of a state last night, turned up drunk with a bottle of whisky as his best mate
FINN: Right, is he ok?
CAITLIN: He's getting there, but he's not ready to see her again yet so he asked if he could stay with me
FINN: Do you think he'd see me?
CAITLIN: Well he was gonna ask you to bring his stuff over so I'm taking it he would've seen you
FINN: Do you mind if I come back with you then?
CAITLIN: Sure, do you wanna help me get a bag together for him? You'll probably find things quicker than me
They walk round to the stairs
FINN: Yeah and his room's always a tip anyway
They are both surprised to see Emma leaning against the wall of the staircase
EMMA: So Ross is with you then?
Caitlin looks annoyed
CAITLIN: Eh, yeah
EMMA: Do you really think you're the right person?
Caitlin frowns
CAITLIN: Sorry
EMMA: Well it's just with the amount of times you've messed him around
FINN: Mum, seriously just leave it. I'll go and get started on the bag
Finn goes past Emma as she walks down the stairs with her arms folded
EMMA: So how exactly are you helping him? Sleeping with him and then cutting him loose again?
Caitlin looks unimpressed
CAITLIN: You know it's really none of your business
EMMA: He's my son
CAITLIN: Yeah, and he was your son when you put a pillow over his face as well
EMMA: Well you're hardly one to talk from what I heard last night
CAITLIN: Ok, well we've both got nothing to be proud of in the parent stakes then
Caitlin smiles sarcastically as she pushes past Emma and goes upstairs
EMMA: If you hurt him
Caitlin turns back
CAITLIN: You know you don't actually know anything about our relationship and anything I do to him could never be worse than anything you've already done, so why don't you keep your opinions and your advice to yourself?
Caitlin storms upstairs
DALE VIEW COTTAGE – MORNING
Caitlin and Finn come downstairs as Emma sits on the couch seething
CAITLIN: I'm going to work, he'll have the place to himself so his ipod can keep him company as well as the TV
FINN: He'll probably just sleep, but I can keep him company anyway
EMMA: So you get to see him and I don't?
Finn rolls his eyes and looks over at Emma
FINN: Well since you're the reason he's not here it's hardly surprising is it?
CAITLIN: Look, I'll ask him, you need to talk eventually, he knows that, but don't hold your breath right now
EMMA: Oh how very reasonable of you
FINN: She doesn't have to put in a good word for you mum, especially after the way you've just spoken to her so why don't you wind your neck in?
EMMA: I'm just mean to stand by and let her use him
CAITLIN: You know I'm not actually using him Emma, but even if I was, it'd still be none of your business
Finn opens the door and he and Caitlin leave Emma alone
TALL TREES COTTAGE – MORNING
Ross comes out of the kitchen sipping a cup of coffee, Caitlin enters as he sits down on the couch
CAITLIN: Oh, so this is what you get up to when my back's turned, just sit lounging around watching This Morning?
Ross smiles at Caitlin
ROSS: Huh, well, what can I say, Holly Willoughby is well fit, or in the words of Keith Lemon "bang tidy"
CAITLIN: Oh ok, is she fitter than me?
Ross thinks as Caitlin sits next to him and puts the bag on his lap
CAITLIN: Don't you dare say yes cause she won't be as nice to you as me
ROSS: Well that depends, how nice are you gonna be?
Ross leans over to kiss Caitlin, she smiles as she moves her head slightly
CAITLIN: Eh, I didn't exactly come back alone
Ross looks annoyed, Finn reveals himself from the porch, Caitlin looks round
FINN: Surprise
Caitlin looks back at Ross
CAITLIN: I didn't think you'd mind, you know, since you were gonna get him to bring some stuff over for you anyway
Ross puts his mug down on the coffee table
ROSS: What are you doing here? If you've come to sing mum's praises then I don't wanna hear it
FINN: I haven't, you're my brother, I was worried, I've just come to see you
Ross looks at Finn and Caitlin
CAITLIN: Well I'll leave you to it cause I've gotta get ready for work. Your charger's in there by the way if you wanna charge your phone, I'll see you's in a bit
Caitlin gets up from the couch and goes upstairs, Finn goes to sit down on the couch
ROSS: Do you want a coffee?
FINN: No ta
Finn and Ross sit in an awkward silence
FINN: So, you kept your thing for Holly Willoughby quiet, respecting her being a married woman then?
ROSS: Have you seen her husband? I reckon she'd be on to a good thing with Keith
FINN: Dan, he's quite fit actually, I've seen him, he's the producer of Celebrity Juice you know
Ross looks round at Finn, frowning
ROSS: Have you come round to bore me to death with your knowledge of ITV? I only said she was fit, I didn't want her life story, oh and before you start on as well I know she's got 3 kids, so we can get that bit of trivia out the way as well
FINN: Yeah, yeah and Keith Lemon's not really called Keith Lemon you know, no he's actually called Leigh Francis
ROSS: Finn
CAITLIN: God even I'm bored of this conversation
Ross and Finn turn to look at Caitlin standing at the bottom of the stairs
Caitlin points her thumb back
CAITLIN: Sorry, I just came to get my uniform. Haven't you two got anything better to talk about or are you gonna go through the whole team at ITV? One of the continuity announcer guy's is married to Angela Griffin as well, he sounds well fit too, you know, in case you're collating a list or anything
Caitlin smiles, shaking her head as she heads into the kitchen
CAITLIN: You know if you want any breakfast or anything just help yourselves
Caitlin stands in the doorway of the kitchen holding the washing basket, Ross looks over
ROSS: I'm good thanks
CAITLIN: Ok
Caitlin goes back upstairs with the washing basket
FINN: I didn't know about mum you know
ROSS: Yeah, I know, but Pete did, and dad
FINN: You shouldn't be too hard on them you know, I mean it's not exactly something you want to have to say to someone about why their mother left, is it?
ROSS: They still should've told me, I had a right to know
FINN: Yeah I know
ROSS: What kind of a cold bitch tries to kill her kid then runs off and never shows her face again for over 20 years? I suppose she's been giving you all kinds of excuses
FINN: She's tried explaining but I'm not up for hearing it yet. She wants to see you by the way
Ross gets up and takes the mug into the kitchen
ROSS: Yeah well it'll be a cold day in hell before that happens
FINN: You have to see her sometime Ross
ROSS: Yeah I know that Finn, I've had all this from Caitlin
Caitlin looks awkward as she looks over at them from the stairs
CAITLIN: Eh, I'm going now, do you want me to call you about the takeaway so you can tell me what you want and I can just pick it up?
ROSS: Yeah, that'd be good, thanks
CAITLIN: Ok, I'll see you later then
Caitlin disappears out the door
FINN: She's such a nice person
ROSS: Yeah I know and I know I haven't been nice to her lately, I guess it's not her fault she ran into mum, if she didn't we might never have known, don't know if that's a good or a bad thing
FINN: I brought the playstation if you fancy a thrashing to take your mind off it?
Ross looks smug
ROSS: You trash me, yeah right, as if
FINN: Yeah, you're right, I always let you win
Ross sniggers
ROSS: Go on then, you deluded idiot
TALL TREES COTTAGE – EVENING
Caitlin walks in from her shift to find Ross and Finn on the couch playing computer games, she stands looking surprised
CAITLIN: Eh, please tell me the two of you haven't been sitting here since I left
Ross and Finn look round equally surprised
ROSS: Ok, we haven't been sitting here since you left
FINN: It's a big fat fib
Caitlin walks over to the couch, she lifts up a packet from the table
CAITLIN: And don't tell me, your lunch consisted of peanuts, crisps and biscuits right?
Ross stuffs his mouth with peanuts
ROSS: Yeah, we went for the 3 course option. Did you get the takeaway?
CAITLIN: Well if you'd answer your phone when it rings so I can ask what you want, but you didn't, so that would be a no
Ross looks disappointed
ROSS: Well I could tell you now
CAITLIN: Oh so I'm going back out again am I?
ROSS: Well I'll come with you, to help you with the bag
Caitlin picks up all the rubbish
CAITLIN: Oh forget it, we'll just eat something out the freezer, it looks like you've filled yourself up on crap anyway so it'll just get wasted
FINN: Eh, no it won't, I'll help anywhere I can
Caitlin looks at Finn
CAITLIN: Yeah? Well, you can start by cleaning up the mess you made while I get showered and changed and you (points to Ross) can go and buy me a suck up gift, nothing to extravagant, just a bottle of prosecco, a box of chocolates and flowers should do it
Caitlin smiles sarcastically as she drops the rubbish in Finn's lap and goes upstairs, they look at each other realising they've annoyed her
FINN: I think I'll get out of here before she does some serious damage to your man bits mate
A little while later
Caitlin comes down from the bathroom, she picks up the TV remote and selects the DVD in the machine to play, as it starts up she goes into the kitchne, Ross is leaning against the worktop waiting for her, gifts in hand
ROSS: As requested
Ross hands her gifts
CAITLIN: Lets see what delights you got me
Caitlin puts everything down on the worktop
CAITLIN: Wow, a bottle of wine from Doug's collection in the rack, a Toblerone from Laurel's chocolate stash in the cupboard and a little basket of flowers stolen off a grave, great suck up gift, not
Caitlin looks unimpressed at Ross
ROSS: Huh, why do you think they're off a grave?
Caitlin pulls up a little card
CAITLIN: Just a small thing: "To granny, I hope you're resting in peace, I miss you lots and lots, lots of love, Cooper". You know I really wouldn't have minded a bunch from David's, they're not that bad, you thieving cheapskate
Caitlin slams everything on the worktop as she looks annoyed at Ross
ROSS: So we're not skipping to the make up sex bit anytime soon then?
Caitlin picks up the Toblerone bar and hits Ross over the head with it
ROSS: Ahhh that hurt
CAITLLIN: It was supposed to you lazy idiot, I'm surprised there's anything there to hurt. I let you stay in my house and I'm not even worth spending money on, huh
Caitlin turns and goes into the living room, Ross follows
ROSS: Well in fairness it's not actually your house…
CAITLIN: You're really not helping yourself
Caitlin sits down on the couch pulling a nail file out of her dressing gown pocket
ROSS: I don't have any money on me so I was just gonna show all my gratitude in kind
Ross sits next to her
CAITLIN: Oh really, so who was paying for the takeaway then?
ROSS: Well you obviously, but I would've said thank you
Caitlin rolls her eyes, she turns putting her back against the arm rest and her knees up as she files her nails, the theme tune to Happy Valley comes on
ROSS: Oh my god you're not watching this crap
CAITLIN: It's not crap, it's really good, besides it has a criminal in it Ross, should be right up your street
ROSS: Yeah I know, Tommy Lee Royce, I know him
Caitlin stares at Ross
CAITLIN: What, personally?
Caitlin laughs
ROSS: You should see what Sarah Lancashire does to him at the end, I wouldn't mind if she did something to me, she's well fit, but not what she did to him, it is not nice
CAITLIN: I take it she doesn't fall for his irresistible charms and fall into bed with him then?
ROSS: Hardly, he raped her daughter, she had his kid and then hanged herself. No, she kicks the crap right out of him and by the end he's begging her to burn him alive cause that's what he was gonna do with his little boy anyway
Caitlin looks really annoyed at Ross
CAITLIN: Oh thank you, thank you so much for that Ross, do you think there's any point in me watching it now? I'm only at episode 3
ROSS: I saw it when it was on TV, didn't you?
Caitlin shakes her head
CAITLIN: I'm gonna do you some serious damage in a minute
Ross leans up on his knees on the cushion, stretching over to Caitlin's face
ROSS: Oh good, do you think you could start now cause I am so horny right now?
Ross kisses Caitlin, she talks as they kiss
CAITLIN: Why would I buy a DVD if I'd seen it on TV?
Ross looks confused at her
ROSS: Everyone does, I've got the whole series of Friends and I saw it on TV
Caitlin frowns at Ross
CAITLIN: Ya weirdo. Well you can just get off on Sarah Lancashire now then since you've totally spoiled my viewing
Ross smiles flirtatiously
ROSS: Oh I will right after I've got off with you
Ross starts kissing Caitlin again, pulling down her dressing gown
CAITLIN: (Squealing) Nooo, stop it, get off
Ross pulls Caitlin by the legs, flattening her out on the couch, she laughs as he kisses her neck
CAITLIN: Just for reference I'm still annoyed and I really think you should put the flowers back cause even I feel guilty
Ross laughs as he looks at Caitlin
ROSS: It's a flower pot from a dead woman's grave, she's not gonna know about it
Caitlin hits Ross on the arm
CAITLIN: Cold, unfeeling, show spoiling pig
ROSS: Fine
Ross gets up off the couch, Caitlin looks at him in surprise
CAITLIN: Hey, I didn't say you had to do it now, you can't strip the wall and then not put the paint on, you can't leave a job half done
Caitlin pulls Ross back, she kisses him, pulling his t-shirt off. Unbeknown to them James has come in the door
JAMES: Sorry to interrupt, you really should eh lock the door if you're planning to you know
Caitlin and Ross spring up from the couch, embarrassed
CAITLIN: Oh my god
ROSS: Dad, you could've knocked
JAMES: I did, twice
Ross puts his t-shirt back on as Caitlin puts her dressing gown back on
ROSS: Yeah well if you don't get an answer it means you go away
JAMES: Well Finn said you were in so
ROSS: What do you want?
JAMES: Just wanted a chat
Caitlin gets up from the couch, she goes over to the TV and ejects the DVD from the player
CAITLIN: I'll go and watch this upstairs, see you in a bit, sorry James about…
ROSS: Don't apologise to him, he shouldn't have walked in
Caitlin mouths sorry to James as she heads upstairs, he smiles
ROSS: First Finn, now you, is Pete coming next, then her as well? You should've all come together, brought a picnic, we could've made a day of it, save on all the separate visits
James sits next to Ross
A little while later
Caitlin is lying on top of the bed watching Happy Valley and eating a big bag of crisps when Ross enters, she pauses the DVD
CAITLIN: Hey, how did it go with your dad? I'm so mortified you know
Ross goes over and lies on the bed beside Caitlin
ROSS: Fine, well you know, he wants me to go home and listen to mum
CAITLIN: Yeah but you kind of already knew that anyway, right?
ROSS: I'm putting it off as long as I can
Ross takes some of the crisps from the packet and eats them
CAITLIN: Get your hands out of my crisps you. Yeah well, you might as well just get it over with, come on you know I'm right
ROSS: Yeah, yeah I know
They smile at each other
ROSS: Did you get to the end of Happy Valley?
Caitlin turns her head to look at the screen
CAITLIN: Does it look like it? I've just started episode 5
ROSS: Come on then, stick it on, lets watch it, so we're ready to go when series 2 comes on
Caitlin turns her head to look at Ross
CAITLIN: What are you gonna pop round every Tuesday night, or whenever it's on?
ROSS: No I mean if you move back in
Caitlin looks surprised
CAITLIN: Isn't that rushing things a bit?
ROSS: Why? I only fell out with you cause of mum, and I'm not gonna let her wreck everything in my life just cause she tried to end it once
Caitlin looks unsure
CAITLIN: Well going by the way she was being interfering and judging when I went over to get you some stuff, I don't think I'm on her Christmas card list
ROSS: Why, what did she say?
CAITLIN: Oh just not to hurt you and making out I have no room to be mad at her when I have issues with my own child
ROSS: Like she has the right to take the moral high ground
CAITLIN: Well she's kinda missed out on doing the whole 'protective mother thing' so she's just making up
Ross looks confused
ROSS: She's the one I needed protection from. No, you're moving back in and that's it, she's moving out
Caitlin smiles, surprised
CAITLIN: Oh, that's very masterful of you
ROSS: Hmmm, I can be very masterful
CAITLIN: Hmmm, I might just have to test you out on that
Ross rolls on top of Caitlin, kissing her
CAITLIN: Did you put the cute little pot of flowers back?
ROSS: Yes, are you gonna shut up now?
CAITLIN: Yeah I am, cause we're gonna watch Happy Valley remember?
Caitlin pushes Ross away
ROSS: Oh yeah
Ross looks bored, he dips his hand in the crisps again
ROSS: These are really nice, what are they?
CAITLIN: Walkers Cheese and Onion Extra Crunchy
Caitlin snuggles into Ross as she presses play on the DVD