*** OUTSIDE SUN HILL POLICE STATION - 6:00 AM ***

Polly rushes through the front doors, late for the shift. Reg passes her, looking at his watch.

PC Hollis:

You're late, Poll! Boyfriend been keeping you busy?

PC Page:

Leave it out, Reg!

PC Hollis:

Mr Monroe has been looking for you.

Polly turns, rather confused.

PC Page:

He has?

Reg has a smug look on his face.

PC Page:

Reg, I'm not in the mood. What's going on? What's this about?

PC Hollis:

He has. He's a real stickler for arriving at the correct time. You should know

that by now!

PC Page:

I'm not that late, surely.

PC Hollis:

You'll find out soon enough, Poll.

Polly rolls her eyes as she heads towards Monroe's office.

PC Hollis:

Like I said, Mr Monroe is very strict when it comes to being punctual.

Reg walks off with a satisfied smirk.

*** INSPECTOR MONROE�S OFFICE ***

Polly knocks hesitantly on the door.

Insp. Monroe:

Come in.

Polly enters the room, shocked by familiar face sitting opposite the Inspector.

PC Keane:

Hi, Poll!

PC Page:

Debbie? What are you doing here?

Polly is delighted, but somewhat stunned.

Insp. Monroe:

Polly, I'd like to introduce you to our latest recruit.

PC Keane:

I've come back, Poll! I've transferred back to Sun Hill.

Polly looks between Andrew and Debbie, realising they are serious. Debbie rushes forward and hugs Polly.

PC Page:

What, when? Permanently?

Polly returns the hug.

PC Keane:

Yeah, I've come back for good!

Insp. Monroe:

And you'll be working together today. Because it's a special occasion, I won't say anything about you being late, Polly!

Polly lowers her head.

PC Page:

Yeah, sorry about that, sir.

Insp. Monroe:

Just don't do it again. Now, you two must have a lot of catching up to do, so I won't keep you any longer. You're in Panda 8-4.

PC Page:

Thank you, sir.

Debbie and Polly leave the room.

PC Page:

Debs, I can't believe it. What brought this all on?

PC Keane:

Well, I was sick of life in the country and I needed a change of scenery. I was looking for somewhere to go, so naturally I thought of my mates at Sun Hill!

PC Page:

Fantastic. Debs, why'd you leave so suddenly anyway?

Debbie and Polly walk out into the yard.

PC Keane:

Well, my mum became ill, so I moved up to Hertfordshire to take care of her. Things were going fine but about a month ago, she passed away.

PC Page:

I'm sorry, Debs.

PC Keane:

So I decided to rejoin the police and come back to the Met. It's pretty simple, really.

PC Page:

Yeah, well, everyone'll be pleased to have you back. There've been a few changes.

PC Keane:

Hey, forget it. We've all got to go sometime. Changes?

PC Page:

Well, we've had a few come and go. There's two new probationers, Roz and Ben. As well as new PCs, Cass Rickman, Smithy and Nick Klein. You'll meet 'em all at refs. Oh, and Luke left, I'm afraid.

PC Keane:

Little Lukie? What happened?

PC Page:

It's a long story. He decided the force wasn't what he wanted.

PC Keane:

Ahh, that's a pity. He was a nice boy. Reminded me a bit of Nick Slater...

PC Page:

Yeah, I guess. Anyway, we'd better get out there, don't need Monroe on our backs.

Polly and Debbie head for one of the pandas and get out on the streets.

PC Keane:

Hmm, the streets still look the same.

PC Page:

Yeah, just rougher.

PC Keane:

Same people, walking back and forth. Same lowlife hanging around. Ahh, I've missed Sun Hill!

PC Page:

Sun Hill's missed you too. Hasn't been the same really. Don't get into as much trouble with Vicks and Cass!

PC Keane:

I'm looking forward to meeting Cass, I've heard a bit about her. So Vicks is still here, is she? I thought she'd have moved up the ladder by now.

PC Page:

Vicky, no. As long as there's the car to drive, she's happy. Cass' real nice, you'll get along well with her.

PC Keane:

I hope so! I caught up with Tony outside the nick this morning but I couldn't find Dave. How's he going?

Polly speaks sharply.

PC Page:

He left. About two months ago. Another long story, but he married a nurse from St Hugh's over a year ago, and well, they moved to Essex.

PC Keane:

You seem a bit angry about it, Poll. What's the matter?

PC Page:

No, nothing, well, I dunno, it's just Dave wasn't all that keen on moving, that's all.

PC Keane:

There's something you're not telling me, Poll! Dave would never leave Sun Hill like that. And where's George?

Polly sighs.

PC Page:

George was with Jenny, before Dave took a liking to her. He left, after Dave shacked up with her.

PC Keane:

Jenny? That's this nurse, right? Is that why you're angry? Because she drove George away?

PC Page:

Yeah. Anyway, what about you, though? I mean, why didn't you say anything, you just left!

PC Keane:

I didn't get a choice, Poll! My mum became really sick all of a sudden and I had to leave quickly. I'm sorry that I didn't say goodbye!

PC Page:

I'm not holding it over ya head of anything, calm down. I was just surprised, that's all. Everyone was.

PC Keane:

I really wanted to phone ya and stay in touch, but I just had so much on my plate. Anyway, I'm back now, so how about we just forget about the past?

PC Page:

Yeah, fine with me. The last three years never happened.

Polly grins over at Debbie, Deb grinning back.

PC Keane:

Hey, look over there, Poll! That car speeding off. And I can hear an alarm!

Polly takes off after the car, Debbie radioing in for back-up.

PC Keane:

Sierra Oscar from 561. Chasing possible robbery suspect down Askin Street. PNC check on a Ford Mondeo, blue, registration 8 9 9 Whiskey Charlie Yankee.

*** WPC's LOCKER ROOM - 2:10 PM ***

PC Keane:

Phew, am I glad that's over! I wasn't expecting to spend six hours stuck in a car chasing after a bunch of blaggers!

PC Page:

Ahh, welcome back! So, where�re we headed? The Grapes, or Pike's Head? We could always do dinner later?

PC Keane:

Um, well, I'd love to, Poll, but I'd rather have a quiet night at home, if that's okay.

Polly is rather put out.

PC Page:

Oh, well, tomorrow then?

PC Keane:

Yeah, sure. I'd love to, Polly.

Polly heads out of the room.

PC Keane:

Night then.

Debbie picks up her mobile and calls someone.

PC Keane:

Hello? Mum, is that you? Yeah, I was just wondering if you could pick up Naomi, 'cause I've got some things to sort out back at the station...

Polly realises she's forgotten her jacket and makes her way back to the locker room, stopping just outside the door as she hears Debbie's voice.

PC Keane:

Mum, can you please pick her up? I worry about her being on her own ever since that business with Simon.

Polly boldly enters the room, one eyebrow raised.

PC Keane:

Yeah, great. Bye, mum!

Debbie switches her phone off.

PC Page:

What's going on, Debbie?

Debbie turns around, looking shocked.

PC Keane:

Poll? What?

PC Page:

You heard me. Or at least I heard you. You wanna tell me what that was all about?

PC Keane:

Polly, let me explain.

PC Page:

I'm listening.

PC Keane:

Look, I'm sorry, but I've been having a lot of problems lately. I moved back here to escape from someone. I'm sorry that I lied to you, but I really just want to forget the past.

Polly looks shocked.

PC Page:

Debbie, I didn't mean to snap about it. Look, you wanna talk about it?

PC Keane:

Yeah, if you like. I mean, we're still best mates aren't we? And if I can't talk about it with a friend.

PC Page:

Look, you�re welcome to come round to my place if ya want, or we could head out for that drink.

Debbie and Polly walk out of the room.

PC Keane:

Yeah, I think I might. I need to relax a bit. Is the Canley Arms still there?

PC Page:

Sure.

Polly and Debbie makes their way out of the station.

*** THE CANLEY ARMS ***

PC Keane:

So what are you having, Poll?

PC Page:

Vodka and orange, I guess.

PC Keane:

Same.

Polly gets the drinks and heads back to their table.

PC Keane:

Right, well, what do you want to know?

PC Page:

Well, what's happened? I mean, June just up and told you'd transferred once day. That's all she'd say.

PC Keane:

There was a problem. My mum had nothing to do with it. She's been in Sun Hill all this time.

PC Page:

Go on.

PC Keane:

Well, I left 'cause of my little girl, Naomi.

PC Page:

You what?

PC Keane:

Basically, I was having a relationship with Matt Boyden and we weren't careful. When I found out that I was pregnant, I just had to leave before he found out!

Polly drops her jaw in disbelief.

PC Page:

Why didn't you say something? Does he know?

PC Keane:

No, I couldn't bring myself to tell him. Promise me that you won't say anything to him about it, Poll. Please!

PC Page:

Course not, but, it's just, this comes as a bit of a shock, that's all. So, you left �cause of the baby?

PC Keane:

Yeah, I couldn't face the rest of you in case it all came out. I really wanted to stay, but I didn't want Matt being dragged down 'cause of canteen gossip.

PC Page:

You know we wouldn't have done that. So you left your family and everything?

PC Keane:

I just had to get out of here, get a fresh start, y'know what I mean?

PC Page:

Yeah, but I mean it must have been so hard. With a baby and all.

PC Keane:

I had a couple of friends up in Hertford, they helped me get back on my feet. I even got a job in a law firm for a while.

PC Page:

So, what brought you back to us?

PC Keane:

Um, I really don't want to talk about that, Poll. Can't we just sit back and enjoy our drinks and you can fill me in on all the gossip?

PC Page:

Sure, but there's really not all that much. I mean, apart from Dave and George leaving, and all.

PC Keane:

Why did they leave? And who is this Jenny person? What do you think of her, Poll?

Polly is hesitant.

PC Keane:

What's the matter, Poll?

PC Page:

George left when Dave attached himself to Jenny. As I said before, she was a nurse at St Hugh's, they met after Dave was assaulted, couple of years ago.

PC Keane:

Dave was assaulted? I didn't hear about that. No, don't worry. I can see that it's a painful memory so I won't push it.

PC Page:

It's alright, it was a close call though, that's all.

PC Keane:

Well, I'm just glad that he pulled through. You must miss him now that he's moved to Essex.

PC Page:

Yeah, but, well, things change, eh?

PC Keane:

Why are you looking so uncomfortable, Polly? I know that you and Dave were great mates, but...

PC Page:

Well, like you, it's complicated.

PC Keane:

You're not happy about his marriage, are you Poll?

PC Page:

Let's just say that it brought a lot of unresolved issues to a head, okay?

PC Keane:

You mean you... and Dave?

PC Page:

Well, it dragged out for over a year, but yeah, I suppose I was a contributing factor in his decision to leave.

PC Keane:

Oh. I'm sorry if I brought up painful memories, Poll. How about we talk about something more cheerful, like your new flat?

PC Page:

Ah, well, yeah, you'll have to come over and have a look sometime. Had it all redecorated. Cost a bomb, but it's worth it, I guess.

*** SUN HILL POLICE STATION CANTEEN - 5:30 PM ***

Debbie is munching on a bacon roll gazing around the familiar canteen. Matt walks in and spots Debbie. She looks up upon hearing the chair across from her move, suddenly feeling rather uncomfortable.

Sgt. Boyden:

Hello, Deborah.

PC Keane:

Matthew.

Sgt. Boyden:

Nice seeing you again. We should do this more often.

PC Keane:

Right, Sarge.

Sgt. Boyden:

Well, don't you think you owe me an explanation?

PC Keane:

Do I? I wasn't aware that I owed you anything.

Sgt. Boyden:

Here one minute, then you do a disappearing act? I think you owe me a great deal more than an explanation, Debbie.

Debbie sighs.

Sgt. Boyden:

Well?

PC Keane:

Any particular reason you're sitting here, Sarge?

Sgt. Boyden:

I could ask you exactly the same thing.

PC Keane:

And I could just not hear you.

Sgt. Boyden:

Well, you'd better listen up, 'cause I'm not going to let it drop. Why did you run away like that?

PC Keane:

I don't have to answer to you, Sarge, and you know it!

Sgt. Boyden:

No, you don't. But we're gonna be stuck in the same nick from now on, so at the very least you could apologise.

Debbie looks at him, completely stunned.

PC Keane:

You've got to be kidding!

Sgt. Boyden:

No, you left me in the lurch and I'd like to know why.

PC Keane:

It's personal. Leave it, yeah?

Sgt. Boyden:

Yeah, well, I was part of your personal life back then, or have you forgotten that?

PC Keane:

I've not forgotten.

Sgt. Boyden:

So why can't you tell me? Or do I mean nothing to you at all?

PC Keane:

It's none of your business, Sarge!

Sgt. Boyden:

Sarge, is it? So that's the way you want to play it.

Matt gets up.

Sgt. Boyden:

You'll have to tell me eventually, Debbie, whether you like it or not!

Debbie looks over his shoulder as the canteen door swings open. Polly walks into the canteen.

PC Page:

Debbie?

Polly rushes over to the table

PC Page:

You okay, Debs?

Sgt. Boyden:

She's fine.

PC Page:

I wasn't talking to you, Sarge.

PC Keane:

It's okay, Poll. Shall we head back out there?

PC Page:

What's he been saying to you, Debbie?

Sgt. Boyden:

Why don't you mind your own business, Polly?

Debbie glances with disregard across at Matt, as she makes her way across to Polly.

PC Page:

This is my business. Let's go, Debs.

Matt looks at them as they leave the room.

PC Page:

What did he say to you, Debbie? Was he trying to pressure you?

PC Keane:

In a word, yes. I can't really blame him though. I mean, I did just up and leave.

PC Page:

Don't be silly, Debs. He didn't care enough to try and find you and you've done nothing to be ashamed of.

Debbie looks at Poll questioningly.

PC Keane:

You don't think? I mean, as much as I wanted to get away from everything, I should have told him the truth.

PC Page:

He�s the one who got you pregnant, Debs. You don't owe him anything.

Debbie sighs.

PC Keane:

It wasn't all down to him, was it? It never is.

PC Page:

Maybe not, but it's certainly wasn't your fault. Don't let him get to you. He's trying to wind you up.

PC Keane:

He's succeeding. I dunno, maybe I did the wrong thing, coming back here. I just, I wanted to get back to the people I trust.

Debbie and Polly talk their way into the WPC's locker room. Polly closes the door and the pair of them take seats on the bench.

PC Page:

Well, you can trust me. Just stay away from Boyden, alright?

PC Keane:

It's gonna be difficult if we're in the same nick! I suppose he'll let it drop eventually. I still feel bad for not telling him, ya know. I mean, he'll be all the more angry when he eventually finds out, won't he?

PC Page:

No! He doesn't have to find out, Debs. Just ignore him for a few weeks and he'll let it drop for good.

PC Keane:

Perhaps. Doesn't make me feel any better though.

Debbie sighs, a long, exhausted sigh.

PC Page:

What's up, Debbie? We're only halfway through the shift, but you look ready to drop!

PC Keane:

You ever had to convince a terrified two year old that's there's not a boogie man, or a hungry lion under her bed every night?

PC Page:

Well, no, but things can't be that bad. Can't your mum help out?

PC Keane:

She baby-sits Naomi all the time as it is. Well, I divide it between her and day-care, but she does all she can. I just didn't realise how tiring this job is, when you can't just go home and soak in a hot bath at the end of every shift, after having had a long relaxing drink with the gang.

PC Page:

Hey, don't be like that, Debs. Can't the job sort out some sort of help? Have you spoken to Reg about it?

PC Keane:

You are joking! Telling Reg would have the same effect as putting an all units out, only quicker!

PC Page:

I know that Reg is a gossip but you don't have to tell him everything. He's our new Fed Rep. Maybe he can sort you out some support?

PC Keane:

I'll think about it. But I'll get used to it, I hope.

PC Page:

Debbie, there's nothing wrong with accepting help. Can I help you out in any way?

PC Keane:

You don't want an instant two year old, by any chance? But thanks though, if I get stuck, I'll holler.

PC Page:

Debs, you're crying! What's the matter?

PC Keane:

Huh, oh, it's nothing. I'm so sorry Poll, it's just, well, my life's completely changed, and I just, I feel trapped by it!

PC Page:

Why did you come back, Debs? It's great that you're here, but you knew that you'd only have to face Boyden. Why did you do it?

PC Keane:

Boyden was the lesser of two evils. I don't wanna get into it, but, well, it's safer for the both of us back here.

PC Page:

I won't insist, but do you promise to tell me one day, when you feel up to it?

PC Keane:

Yeah, one day. Look, Poll, thanks for all this, yeah? I knew that at least I'd have support from the majority of the gang, and Boyden's not the hardest person in the world to have to answer to, believe me.

PC Page:

If he ever tries it on again, just threaten to report him and he'll get the message soon enough!

Debbie scoffs.

PC Keane:

Been there, done that. Trust me, in my experience it doesn't do any good.

PC Page:

Well, if you ever need support or a shoulder to cry on, I'm always around. Remember that.

PC Keane:

Thanks, Poll.

*** THE SERGEANTS OFFICE ***

Matt walks in with a snarl on his face. June looks up from the pile of papers in front of her.

Sgt. Ackland:

Something up, Matt?

Sgt. Boyden:

What is wrong with that woman? Why won't she answer a simple question?

Sgt. Ackland:

Who are we talking about here?

Sgt. Boyden:

Debbie Keane, who else?

June puts on her most innocent voice.

Sgt. Ackland:

What's the problem?

Sgt. Boyden:

Oh, don't act the innocent, June. You and her were all over each other when she left. Don't pretend she didn't tell you about our relationship.

Sgt. Ackland:

You two having problems sorting out where the land lies then?

Sgt. Boyden:

All I want to know is why she left all of a sudden. Is that too much to ask?

Sgt. Ackland:

You'll have to talk with Debbie, Matt. Afraid I'm completely in the dark.

Sgt. Boyden:

You know why she left, don't you? You wouldn't tell me then, but I think I'm entitled to know that much!

Sgt. Ackland:

It's not up to me, Matt.

Sgt. Boyden:

Yeah, well whether you like it or not, you're in this up to your neck. Tell me.

Sgt. Ackland:

Not a chance, Matthew. But take a hint and give the girl a few days to settle back in, yeah?

Sgt. Boyden:

Settle back in? Why the hell should I? She didn't even have enough consideration to say goodbye when she left, so give me one good reason why I should make her life any easier!

Sgt. Ackland:

Matthew, in case it had slipped your mind, you're both POLICE OFFICERS. I don't' give a toss what goes on in your off duty hours, but she's a member of the team, just like you are. From that point, you owe it to her to act civilly!

Sgt. Boyden:

Bah, you're a woman. You don't understand!

Sgt. Ackland:

Don't give me that garbage Matthew! For heaven's sake, I've not known it to take you so long to get over being let go by a colleague!

Sgt. Boyden:

Look, I don't give a toss what Keane wants to do in her private life. But disappearing like that without even saying a word is downright suspicious.

Sgt. Ackland:

If you don't give a toss, then why does it bother you?

Sgt. Boyden:

Because Debbie meant something to me. I could understand rejection, but I just don't know why she left like that.

June lowers her voice, to a whisper.

Sgt. Ackland:

Look, I know you were hurt, Matt. Really, if you just give it a few days, let her get back on her feet. Then try and talk with her, yeah?

Sgt. Boyden:

Yeah, maybe. But how she can have the nerve to walk back in here as if nothing had happened?

Sgt. Ackland:

I'm not the person to be talking to, Matt.

Sgt. Boyden:

If you say so, June. But I'm not letting this go.

Matt storms out of the office. June lets out a sigh, as she returns to her paperwork.

*** FOLLOWING MORNING - AREA CAR - 6:40 AM ***

PC Stamp:

Huh. I hate days like today, they're so miserable.

Tony munches on a jam donut.

PC Page:

Yeah, watch it, Tone, you�re getting jam everywhere!

PC Stamp:

Sorry, Poll. Here, have a bite! It's delicious.

Polly cringes.

PC Page:

I'll take your word for it. I can smell the calories from here!

PC Stamp:

Ahh, you don't know what you're missing out on. There's more to life than watching your waist line!

Tony pats his stomach. Polly chuckles, gazing out of the window.

PC Stamp:

So, what were you and Debbie talking about yesterday?

PC Page:

Oh, nothing in particular. Just catching up, ya know.

PC Stamp:

You must have had a lot to talk about! It's good to see Debs back again.

PC Page:

Yeah, it is. You and her were good mates too, weren't ya?

PC Stamp:

Yep, I like Debs. She's got balls!

Polly raises an eyebrow, bursting into a giggle.

PC Page:

Whatever you say, Tone!

PC Stamp:

Well, she does! It's just a shame about that boyfriend of hers.

Polly is taken off guard.

PC Page:

What you on about, Tone?

PC Stamp:

That scumbag boyfriend of hers. She told me about it yesterday.

PC Page:

What'd she say?

PC Stamp:

Oh, come off it, Poll! You and Debbie have been as thick as thieves ever since she got back! She must have told you about Simon what's-his-face.

PC Page:

Well, only what you know. I mean, that he was her boyfriend for a time, before she came back to Sun Hill.

PC Stamp:

Yeah, and the rest. He beat her up! That's why she came back. Hanging's too good for 'em if you ask me.

Polly is rather shocked at Tony's extent of knowledge.

PC Page:

I, erm, hadn't got the full story. When did she tell you all this?

PC Stamp:

When we went out for a drink last night. You mean she hasn't told you about it?

PC Page:

She mentioned it, not in that much detail, but there were more pressing issues to work on.

PC Stamp:

So what were you chatting about, then?

PC Page:

Well, the reason she left actually. She was pregnant, and she's got a two year old daughter now.

Tony looks shocked.

PC Stamp:

You're having me on, Poll!

PC Page:

No, I'm not, really.

PC Stamp:

A baby? Who's the father?

PC Page:

Oh, no-one in particular, just a one night thing. What's she said about this Simon guy?

PC Stamp:

He's filth. Maybe he's the father? What sort of sicko beats up his own girlfriend?

PC Page:

Tony, I'm really not following ya here?

PC Stamp:

He beat up Debs up! I tell ya, if I ever met him in a dark alley...

PC Page:

You're not serious. She never said anything, Tone. She told you all this?

PC Stamp:

Yeah, I'm just amazed that she didn't tell you! I thought you were mates.

PC Page:

So did I. I guess she didn't wanna bombard me with it all...

PC Stamp:

He's filth. He couldn't control his drinking, so he took his anger out on Debbie by bashing her.

PC Page:

She didn't mention it.

PC Stamp:

If I ever meet that bastard, I'll...

PC Page:

Look, Tone, don't work yourself up about it. The main thing is she's back with us now.

PC Stamp:

Yeah. Just keep an eye on Debs, will you, Poll? For me?

PC Page:

It'll be fine, Tone.

Polly pauses.

PC Page:

You've a soft spot for our Debs, ain't ya?

PC Stamp:

She's a good mate. Like you, Poll.

Polly smiles softly at Tony, as an all units comes through.

*** WPC's LOCKER ROOM - 2:10 PM ***

Polly and Debbie are quietly changing out of their uniforms, Polly not working up the nerve to ask Debs about Tony.

PC Keane:

Uncle Bob hasn't changed much, has he?

PC Page:

Nah, he's the same old reliable Bob Cryer.

PC Keane:

He's part of the furniture around here, isn't he? Say, Poll...?

Polly closes her locker door and looks across at Debbie.

PC Page:

Yeah?

PC Keane:

Would you like to meet my daughter?

PC Page:

Sure.

PC Keane:

Are you free tonight?

PC Page:

Yeah, that'd be great.

PC Keane:

Well, how about we meet up for dinner at seven o�clock? I'll introduce you to Naomi and we can have a long chat about what's been going on since I left!

PC Page:

Fine by me. Where�re we meeting?

PC Keane:

How about my flat? It's on the Jasmine Allen.

PC Page:

Great. House? Number?

PC Keane:

Flat number 63. It's on the sixth floor.

PC Page:

Okay. I'll see you at seven then.

Polly smiles briefly as she grabs her bag and heads for the door.

*** THE PIKE'S HEAD - 3:30 PM ***

Vicky, Cass, Tony and Gary are settling into their second drinks, as they search for a new subject of conversation.

PC McCann:

It's great to see Debbie again, isn't it?

Tony grunts.

PC Rickman:

Yeah, she seems really nice. Good copper too, pity I didn't show up earlier.

PC McCann:

She's a great copper, don't you think, Vicky?

PC Hagen:

Yeah, well, she was. There's something different about her, don't ya think, Tone?

Tony grunts again.

PC Stamp:

She's a good mate and a great copper.

PC Rickman:

Wished she'd have joined us. Haven't really had much of a change to talk with her. Off the job, that is.

PC Stamp:

She's got a lot on her mind right now.

PC Rickman:

Yeah? What's going on, Tone?

PC Stamp:

She's just having a few problems adjusting to the job again.

PC Hagen:

I see. You sure that's all it is? She and Poll have been huddled in corridors all week!

PC Stamp:

It's not your problem, Vicky. Just drop it, yeah?

PC McCann:

Umm, Debbie's looking well, isn't she?

Vicky scoffs.

PC Hagen:

Looks like she's been through ten rounds if you ask me.

PC Stamp:

It's none of your business, Vicks! Change the subject.

PC Hagen:

Calm down, Tone, no need to blow a tyre or anything!

PC Stamp:

I'm not blowing a tyre, I just don't think we should drag it all up in a pub!

PC McCann:

Yeah. Um, did you hear about the big CID cock-up today?

PC Rickman:

Yeah, I did actually. Apparently they went bursting into a day-care centre, to arrest one of the workers. They had half the kids in tears and it was all on false information!

PC McCann:

Typical CID!

PC Rickman:

That'd be right. Boulton and Skase rushing in there, poor kids will probably have nightmares!

PC Hagen:

She'll be needing therapy until she is a teenager!

PC Rickman:

Tone, you alright? You seem a bit preoccupied.

PC Stamp:

I'm fine. I've just got a lot on my mind.

PC Hagen:

Yeah, you have had a lot more on it since Debs came back. What's up, Tone, you fancy her or something?

PC Stamp:

Leave it out, Vicks. I'm not in the mood.

PC Hagen:

No, but you are in A mood. For God�s sake, Tone, out with it. What's up?

PC Stamp:

Just leave it out! Debbie's been through a lot and she doesn't need this on top of it all the rest!

Vicky raises an eyebrow.

PC Hagen:

The rest?

Cass looks suspiciously over at the pair.

PC Stamp:

Keep your nose out of it, Vicky. I'm serious.

PC Hagen:

Out of what, Tony! Give us a chance here, I mean, we only want to help. We are her friends too, you know!

PC Stamp:

Yeah, well, you can help her a damn sight more if you just shut up and leave it alone.

PC Rickman:

Look, you calm down too, eh?

PC Hagen:

I don't know where you are getting off, Tone, but you are way out of order. We are only trying to help a friend and you are going round acting like her over protective Dad! Relax!

PC Stamp:

I'm not the one who needs to relax, Vicky. Just drop it.

Vicky mumbles under her breath.

PC Hagen:

I was only trying to help!

PC Stamp:

No, you were being a pest. Come on, Cass, I've had enough.

PC Hagen:

Fine, be like that. You obviously have something to hide!

PC Rickman:

Vicky, leave it, yeah?

Cass and Tony polish off their drinks and stand from the table.

PC Stamp:

Night, Gary.

PC Rickman:

See ya both tomorrow, yeah?

Tony and Cass leave the pub.

*** DEBBIE'S FLAT - 6:50 PM ***

Polly makes her way to Deb's flat, knocking on the door. Debbie opens the door.

PC Keane:

Hi, Poll! Come in.

Polly steps into the flat.

PC Page:

Sorry I'm a bit early.

PC Keane:

No problem. It's not very flashy, but it's home.

PC Page:

Nah, looks real cosy.

Polly smiles warmly.

PC Keane:

Well, it's better than the section house! Here, have a seat and I'll fetch Naomi.

PC Page:

Thanks.

Debbie walks into the room with Naomi.

PC Keane:

Naomi, this is Auntie Polly.

Naomi stares up at the unfamiliar face.

Naomi Keane:

Auntie Polwy?

PC Keane:

Aww, how sweet.

Polly smiles and bends down to the little girl.

PC Page:

Hi, Naomi. So, how old are you?

Naomi Keane:

Hello Polwy. Two.

PC Page:

Isn't your hair beautiful! Just like your mum's used to be.

Debbie groans.

PC Keane:

Don't remind me, Poll.

Polly grins as she stands up again.

PC Page:

She's adorable. You shoulda said something.

Naomi Keane:

Bye-bye Polwy.

PC Keane:

You should hear her in the middle of the night. Adorable is NOT the right word.

Polly chuckles.

PC Page:

Better you then me, eh?

Debbie smiles.

PC Keane:

She has her good points.

PC Page:

So, what ya have in mind for tonight?

PC Keane:

Well, I thought that we could have a bite to eat then maybe go out on the town. Mum's coming round later, so Naomi will be taken care of.

PC Page:

Fine by me.

Polly places her bag on the sofa. Debbie and Polly sit at the table.

PC Keane:

It's a bit simple, so I hope you weren't expecting anything fancy!

PC Page:

This is great! Wow, when did you get time to whip this all up?

PC Keane:

Aww, it only looks good 'cause you can't see the empty microwave dinner packets.

PC Page:

Give over, there's no way this is out of a packet! I've tried 'em all, believe me!

Debbie rolls her eyes.

PC Keane:

If you say so, Poll.

Debbie and Polly get stuck into the meal.

PC Page:

So, how long have you been back in Sun Hill?

PC Keane:

About a week. I called into the station and saw Mr Conway when you lot were off-shift.

PC Page:

I see. So, what made you wanna come back all of a sudden?

PC Keane:

Well, I was in a relationship and things didn't, well, work out.

PC Page:

So why leave? Why come back here?

PC Keane:

I wanted a change of scenery. Look, what are you driving at, Poll?

Polly puts her fork down slowly.

PC Page:

It's just, well, rather sudden, isn't it?

PC Keane:

I came back here because it was, I dunno, familiar. A nice, safe place to be.

Polly raises an eyebrow.

PC Page:

Why safe? I mean, weren't you safe where you were?

PC Keane:

No. Well, I mean, yeah ,sure, but...

Naomi walks into the room.

Naomi Keane:

Ma-ma. Dwarwing!

PC Keane:

It's lovely, Naomi. Now, mummy's busy, so go and play, okay?

Naomi Keane:

Dwarwing, Auntie Polwy!

PC Page:

Lovely. Is that you and your Mum?

Polly looks at the messy scribbling the child has drawn.

Naomi Keane:

Naomi. Polwy.

Naomi points proudly to the picture.

PC Page:

Oh, I see.

Naomi Keane:

Ma-ma, I'm hun-gwy.

PC Keane:

You've had your dinner already, Naomi.

Naomi Keane:

Hun-gwy!

PC Keane:

Naomi! I've already fed you and it's time you were asleep. Go straight to bed or I'll smack you, you hear?

Naomi leaves the room, crying.

PC Keane:

Sorry about that, Poll.

Polly looks strangely from the little girl to Debbie.

PC Page:

It's okay. Is she usually much trouble?

PC Keane:

No, she's usually much worse!

PC Page:

Oh. Must be a big change for her. Moving and everything. Not being with you all the time.

PC Keane:

It's tough on both of us. Sometimes I just don't have the patience to deal with her.

PC Page:

Especially at that age. Your mum helps out though, yeah?

PC Keane:

She helps when she can. But there are times when it all gets too much.

PC Page:

I'll bet. Trying to juggle full time work and a little kid.

PC Keane:

Yeah, not to mention... No, forget it.

PC Page:

Nah, what were you gonna say?

PC Keane:

It doesn't matter. Look, do you want some dessert?

Polly looks slowly at Debbie, who has become rather worked-up.

PC Page:

Debs, you okay? You seem, I dunno, stressed out?

PC Keane:

Look, it really doesn't matter. I'm dealing with it.

PC Page:

If you're sure. It's just, well, Tony mentioned something about an ex-boyfriend.

Debbie looks stunned.

PC Page:

Debs?

PC Keane:

He hasn't told you about Simon, has he?

PC Page:

Well, yeah, we were talking. He just assumed I knew too. Why didn't you mention it?

PC Keane:

I didn't want you to think that I was just another battered woman who couldn't handle herself.

PC Page:

Deb, I deal with this everyday. You didn't really believe that I'd think that, did you?

PC Keane:

It's just, we've been friends for years and I wanted you to think that I was coping.

PC Page:

Debs, from what I've seen over the past few days, you're doing better than coping. We all misjudge people at times.

PC Keane:

But I trusted him, Poll! I even left him alone with Naomi. I had no idea that he was like that.

PC Page:

How were you to know? The important thing is you got out of it. You didn't just stay there and take it.

PC Keane:

Yeah, I guess. Look, mum should be here soon so how about we drown our sorrows in this place I know?

PC Page:

Great. I'll help you clear up.

Polly stands and helps Debbie stack the dishwasher and clean up the table.

PC Keane:

Thanks, Poll. You don't have to do all this, you know.

PC Page:

It beats saying home and channel-flicking all night! Besides, I wanna make up for lost time.

PC Keane:

Yeah, we have heaps of things to catch up on! What have you been doing these last couple of years?

PC Page:

You mean besides work? Nothing, really.

PC Keane:

Come on, you must have done something!

PC Page:

Not a thing, rather pathetic actually.

PC Keane:

C'mon Polly, tell me all about it.

PC Page:

There's nothing to tell you about.

PC Keane:

You can't have spent the last three years doing nothing!

PC Page:

Not nothing. Working, the flat, moving from one unsuccessful relationship to another.

PC Keane:

So you still haven't found "Mr Right" then? I know I didn't.

PC Page:

Well, though I had, but no. Almost given up.

PC Keane:

What's the matter, Poll? Did he hurt you?

PC Page:

Nah, nothing like that. Just well, we had different opinions as to what we wanted out of the relationship, that's all.

PC Keane:

There's something you're not telling me!

PC Page:

No, that's how it was. Anyway, it sorted itself out.

PC Keane:

You still seem depressed. But at least you're coping! There are some days when I just don't want to get out of bed.

PC Page:

I don't blame you. Look, I'm not gonna force the issue, but if you wanna talk about anything, I'm always around.

PC Keane:

Thanks, Poll. Is that a knock at the door?

Polly and Debbie make their to the door. Debbie opens the door.

PC Keane:

Hi, mum!

Mrs Keane:

Debbie. Sorry if I was a bit late, dear, I hope I didn't hold you two up.

Mrs Keane makes her way into the flat.

PC Keane:

No, that's fine, mum. Thanks for this!

Mrs Keane:

Glad to help out dear. You need a chance to get out now and then.

PC Keane:

Okay, we should be back around eleven. Bye! Bye Naomi!

Naomi pokes her head around the doorframe.

Naomi Keane:

Bye-bye Ma-ma. Bye-bye Auntie Polwy.

Polly waves at the little girl.

PC Page:

Bye, Naomi. I'll see ya another time, okay?

Naomi doesn't reply. Polly goes over to the child.

PC Page:

Won't I?

Naomi Keane:

Bye Polwy.

Naomi pouts. Polly makes her way back to Debbie, and they head out the door.

*** THE SATURN WINE BAR - 8:15 PM ***

Polly and Debbie head inside the wine bar, and over towards one of the table near a window. Debbie and Polly walk over to the nearest free table. Debbie spots something.

PC Keane:

Poll! Quick, let's get out of here. I just spotted Tony and Sergeant Boyden in the far corner.

Tony notices Debbie and shouts.

PC Stamp:

Hey, Debbie! Over here! Join us for a drink!

Debbie whispers.

PC Keane:

Darn.

PC Page:

We don't have to, if you don't feel up to it.

PC Keane:

We'd better. Otherwise Tony will get suspicious. I'll just ignore Matt.

Debbie and Polly go over to the table.

PC Page:

Evening, guys. Didn't think wine bars were your thing.

PC Stamp:

Well, the Pike's Head was closed for renovations.

PC Keane:

Hello, Tony. Sarge.

Sgt. Boyden:

Polly, Debbie.

Matt nods at the women.

PC Stamp:

Here, let me shout you both drinks.

Polly looks questionably at Debbie.

PC Keane:

No, we're fine Tony.

PC Stamp:

I insist. You both need cheering up.

Polly scoffs, somewhat surprised.

PC Page:

Oh, thanks, Tone! We look that miserable, eh?

PC Stamp:

A man can tell these things.

PC Keane:

Alright, Tone. One drink!

PC Stamp:

Great.

Polly and Debbie take seats, next to Tony and Matt.

PC Stamp:

So, what are you having?

PC Keane:

I'll have a soda water, thanks.

PC Page:

Erm, G and T thanks, Tone.

PC Stamp:

Right. Oi!

Tony waves at a barman.

PC Stamp:

Same again, plus a G and T and a soda water.

Matt shifts awkwardly in his seat, looking from Polly to Debbie.

Sgt. Boyden:

So, you out for a night on the town?

Debbie avoids looking at Matt.

PC Keane:

Yeah.

PC Stamp:

Um, where were you headed?

PC Page:

Hadn't quite got that far yet. Were just gonna hang around here for awhile, and take it from there.

PC Stamp:

Right. Say, is anything the matter, Poll?

PC Page:

What you on about, Tone? Course not.

PC Stamp:

It's just that you seem a bit edgy.

PC Page:

Nope, I'm fine.

Polly replies crisply.

PC Page:

Just fine.

PC Stamp:

You sure, Poll? You don't look fine to me.

Matt whispers under his breath:

Sgt. Boyden:

Give it a rest, Tony, eh?

PC Stamp:

Why, Sarge? If there's a problem, then I'd like to do something about it!

PC Page:

Look, would you just forget it?

PC Stamp:

Okay, okay! I'm sorry I mentioned it. Let's talk about something else then.

PC Page:

Right.

Debbie and the gang sit around in an uncomfortable silence.

PC Stamp:

So, what do you think about having Debbie back then, Sarge?

Matt glances across at Debbie, discreetly.

Sgt. Boyden:

Well, we can never have enough members of the team, can we?

PC Stamp:

But Debs is more than a member of the team, Sarge! She's a great mate and a fine woman to boot.

Sgt. Boyden:

And you'd know, eh Tony?

Matt forces a chuckle.

PC Stamp:

That's not funny, Sarge.

Tony looks deadly serious.

Sgt. Boyden:

I'm only taking the mick, Tony. Settle down, will ya!

Polly glances uneasily across at Debbie, who is looking more uncomfortable by the minute. Debbie looks up as the drinks arrive.

PC Keane:

Thanks.

Polly sighs as the drinks are placed in front of them, carefully reaching for the glass as the others join her.

PC Stamp:

Right. A toast!

PC Keane:

What to?

PC Stamp:

To a fresh start for an old face! To Debbie!

PC Page:

Cheers!

PC Keane:

An old face! Cheers!

Polly and the three touch glasses, Matt looking thoroughly uncomfortable.

PC Stamp:

Cheers!

Tony and the others drink up. Matt quickly polishes off his lager.

PC Stamp:

So, are you staying for another drink, girls?

Polly looks across at Debbie.

PC Keane:

No thanks, Tone.

PC Page:

I'm not feeling too great, I'm afraid. Ok if we pass? Thanks though.

PC Stamp:

But we'll be lonely!

Sgt. Boyden:

I guess we'll have to take the girls from earlier up on their offer, eh Tone?

PC Stamp:

What, the ones who looked like they were fifteen years old? I would have thought that you had had enough of that, Sarge?

PC Page:

Yeah, after the trouble you gotcha self into last time.

Polly thanks Tony for the drink, and gets to her feet.

PC Keane:

What's all this?

Sgt. Boyden:

Nothing.

Matt looks angrily at Polly.

PC Stamp:

Are you sure you have to go?

Tony looks forlorn