Packed to the Rafters (2008–2013): Season 6, Episode 1 - High Hopes - full transcript
We start each day
with high hopes,
hopes for the good health
of our loved ones,
hopes for our kids' safety
wherever they may be,
even our unofficial kids.
We hope that work
will keep rolling in
so that bills
will be paid on time
and that family life
will go on.
♪ Living in
The moment ♪
♪ Living my life ♪
♪ Easy and breezy ♪
♪ With peace in my mind ♪
♪ With peace in my heart ♪
There's no better way
to start a new day
than with high hopes
and clean sheets.
-Baa, lamb.
- Okay,
I've made the bed,
washed extra sheets,
cleared some space
in the wardrobe.
Don't forget Nathan's
plane lands at--
-3:25.
-3:25.
All right, just checking
you've been paying attention.
Yeah, well,
you won't let us forget.
I hope the poor lad's prepared
for the smothering
he's going to get.
One of our kids is moving home.
I admit I'm excited.
Really? You're covering it
so well.
So, Dad, are you still
going to come
to the airport with me?
Yes, I am at 3:25
if memory serves.
Hold on.
"Due to ash, there's no flights
in or out of Europe
for at least two weeks."
-What?
- Yeah.
A volcano in Iceland
wreaking havoc.
-Where?
-Too easy.
-Oh, hilarious.
Not even you can ruin
my day today, darling.
-I can give it a shot.
Oh, coat hangers.
- That's beautiful.
How's it look?
Like we're kind of desperate.
Well, we kind of are.
But we've only been opened
a couple of months.
Yes, but you know what?
Our customers are out there.
Yeah, it'll be better
if they were in here.
Look, we've just got to send
out positive vibes
and we'll get positive
results in return.
Yeah, I have been but so far,
it's just all one way.
Okay, you've just
got tell yourself,
"I've got a really good
feeling about today."
Say it.
I've got a really good
feeling about today.
"Today will be the day
we land the big one."
Today will be the day
we land the big one.
-Yes.
- Yes, and if
a discount like this
doesn't get them in,
nothing will.
High hopes.
Sometimes, they need a bit
of bolstering.
So it's finally come to this?
Living out of the back
of your car.
And it's not
even your car.
Ha-ha-ha-ha-ha.
You don't fool me, missy.
Keep your eyes off my treasures.
And what I wouldn't give
for a squash racquet
and a best of John Farnham,
a dead cactus.
For your information,
it's a succulent.
It's not dead, it's...
Okay, it's dead.
One less thing Dave
will have to store for me.
So are you homeless?
Well, what do you reckon?
The lease is up,
the joint's too exy for one,
and Jake's OS, Coby's, away.
And all the animal shelters
are full.
Funny.
Well, where are you
going to live?
Oh, I'll bunk down with a mate.
You really think Dave's
going to let you
-keep all your stuff here?
-Are you kidding?
It's Dave.
-Dave!
-No.
It's only for a week.
This is a functioning
work place,
not a self-storage facility.
You won't even know
it's there, mate.
Um, no.
Well, where am I
going to put it?
You really want me
to answer that?
Buzz here?
Not yet.
Well, I know the traffic is bad.
Yeah, well, on a trial day,
the smart thing
would've been to give
yourself more time.
Let's get these vans loaded
and you,
just put that junk back
where it came from.
Righto.
God, Julie!
A man can't hear himself think
above that infernal racket!
Dad?
Dad, I'm sorry.
Buzz, look,
if something's happened,
can you please just call me?
Twenty-five minutes.
Look, honestly,
this is not like him.
He was never late
when he worked for Dad.
-Buzz here yet?
- Nope.
Oh. Hey, what's with
that name anyway?
Well, maybe his parents
were Buzz Aldrin fans, yeah?
Conceived during
the moon landing?
You know, it was quite sexy.
You know what,
I'll let him tell you.
Well, I look forward to it,
if he ever gets here.
I'll try him one last time.
Really, something major
must've happened.
Well, as long as it's not
"My car got a flat."
You know, when I was
a young sparkie,
if you were late,
you were docked.
No excuses.
You woke up three hours
before you went to bed,
lived in a shoebox,
end of the road.
And women were seen
and not heard.
How's it going?
Well, I just had a run in
with Dad out of nowhere.
"Stop that infernal racket,"
he says
and stomps from the room.
Infernal racket?
He sounds like Yosemite Sam.
-Yeah.
- Well, we all know,
mood swings are a part of it.
-He's here.
-G'day. G'day.
I'm sorry. I'm sorry.
You're not going to believe it.
I was halfway here
and my car got a flat.
What? It's true.
-Forget it. I'm Dave.
-Great.
-I'm Julie, hi.
-Buzz Graham.
-Did I mention, I'm sorry?
-Why didn't you call?
Well, my phone took a bath
in the toilet last night.
Right, well let's get moving.
We're already behind.
Look, I'll make it up to you,
I promise.
I'm rapt to be working
with Frankie again.
Yeah, glad to hear it.
Let's go.
-Okay, have a good day.
-Yeah, you too.
Give Nathan a punch for me.
Yeah, I'll see you at the
welcome home extravaganza.
Don't forget the brass band.
Yeah, I reckon
I must've run over
a bottle or a nail or something.
Or maybe a bottle full of nails.
Okay, I'll give it
a rest.
Look, you're here now.
Frankie's got the job sheet.
Just familiarize yourself
with that.
-Oh bugger, keys.
-Oh, I'll get them.
No, I know where they are.
Dude, you're late
on your first day.
-Yeah, I know.
-What got into your head?
Jackson got into my head,
that's what.
-Is everything okay?
-Yeah, everything's fine.
Don't worry,
it won't happen again.
All right, let's roll.
Does he always run everywhere?
Put the duck in the truck.
There you go, sweetheart.
Good girl.
Oh, you going out, Dad?
One of your good shirts.
Oh, it's not a crime, is it?
-No, no, I... I was just--
- A man can't sit around
all day like a bloody turnip.
No. No.
Well, it's a beautiful day
for an outing.
Where are you off to?
I haven't made up my mind yet.
You will take
your phone, though?
I will. You don't have
to remind me.
No, I was just...
But are you still going
to come to the airport
-to meet Nathan?
-If it's all right.
Yeah, of course it is.
Well, the plane lands at...
3:25 from memory.
See? I haven't lost
all my marbles yet.
Dad, no one's saying that.
But I will,
and that's the bugger, isn't it?
-Oh, Dad.
-That's life.
Well, I'll just put this away
and get a move on.
No, leave that, Dad.
I can... I can... Oh--
Julie, I can do it.
I know you can. I was just...
offering.
Are you still seeing
that bloke in remand, Cody?
Coby.
And he's not in remand.
He got convicted.
Ah, right.
So what, you're just baking
lots of cakes
with files in them?
Um, look, I haven't seen him.
No one has for ages.
He says it makes it harder.
Dumb question really.
When was the last time
you baked?
Heads up.
So Buzz, tell us a little bit
about yourself
-starting with that name.
-Not much to say, mate.
I'm a sparkie.
If the name fits, you know.
-You married?
-Nah, not married,
-never been married.
-Girlfriend?
-Nah.
An uncomplicated
life then.
Half your luck. Dave Rafter.
Yeah, that's right.
Hang on, I'll just get my book.
Are you going to tell him
about Jackson?
Nah.
Oh, hello.
Wrong number.
I was just passing,
so I thought I'd drop by.
-Do you want a quick cuppa?
-Ooh, yes, please.
What time does Nathan's plane
get in?
Oh, 3:25 which we're not
going to make it
-if Dad gets home soon.
-Oh, still,
it always takes them a while
to clear customs, doesn't it?
I had a friend,
Shirley Buckland.
-Did you ever meet Shirley?
-Nah, not sure.
Well, she got
detained in customs
for hours once coming back
from Thailand.
They called her to one side
and they gave her
-the full search.
-Oh.
Gloves and everything.
-Oh, ouch.
-Mm,
that's just what Shirley said.
Incidentally,
do you remember Logan,
my friend I brought with me
to your anniversary dinner?
Did he get the full search too?
-What?
-By customs.
No, no, no, no.
Do you remember that I told you
that he was in public relations?
Vaguely.
Well, he actually specializes
in, um...
private relations.
Not quite sure what that means.
Oh.
He's a male escort.
And I hired him for the night.
Oh.
And I was thinking
of hiring him again.
Now it's going straight
through to voicemail.
Oh, he'll be here
soon, Julie,
-I'm sure of it.
-Yeah, I'm sorry,
what were you saying?
Well, because he was off
the clock,
technically speaking,
I never did pay for--
-Sex?
-Intimacy.
So, technically speaking,
I never did engage
-the services of a--
-A professional.
I prefer escort.
Professional always sounds so--
Professional?
Well, Logan was professional,
but he was also gentle
and kind and sophisticated
and, well, you met him,
you know.
Yeah, briefly.
I mean, he didn't
exactly stick around.
-I can see why.
-So, I'm thinking
that I'm going
to employ him again,
but this time for the full
range of services.
-Oh.
Does that make me a bad person?
-A slut?
- Donna.
I mean, it's just a simple
business transaction,
don't you think?
I'm still a youngish
vital woman who has needs.
Donna, if it works for you,
then yes.
Dad, where are you? We need
to leave for the airport.
-Oh, boy, when I say needs...
- Look, I'm just...
I'm starting to get worried.
Can you please call me
when you get this message?
I'm sorry.
Here I am rabbiting on
about needs.
He'll be all right, Julie.
I know he will.
Hey, Buzz, could you just
assemble that...
bunker light?
It's a skill I have.
Yeah, thanks, Helen.
Look, if he does turn up could--
Yeah, okay, thanks.
-No luck?
-No.
It's just so unlike Dad.
Well, unlike the old Dad anyway.
Is it time to call the hospitals
-or am I being alarmist?
-You're being alarmist.
Sorry.
Maybe you should call Dave.
Hey, what's up?
I can't find Dad.
-What do you mean?
-Well, he went out,
he took his phone,
he said he'll be home
in time for the airport
and he's not.
Can you go without him?
You won't be that long.
Yeah, I know, it's just...
If he's confused, I don't...
I don't want him
coming home to an empty house.
Okay, well, you wait there
for Ted
-and I'll go and fetch Nathan.
-Are you sure?
Yeah. No worries.
I'm sure everything
will be fine.
Great, thanks.
I've got to go
and pick up Nathan.
You guys all right
to finish up here?
-Yeah, sure.
- Great.
Well, I'll see you tomorrow.
You too, Buzz.
Bright and early. Promise.
It looks like you got the job.
Against all odds, huh?
-So who's this Nathan bloke?
-That's his son.
-What is he, a kid?
-Oh, early 20s.
What, he needs his old man
to pick him up?
I guess some parents
just like to be responsible.
Pretty funny, aren't you?
Hm?
Poor Ted, poor you.
You know how he can be.
And it's getting worse?
Yeah, by degrees.
Mood swings, angry outbursts.
I'm sorry.
I haven't been able to spend
much time with him lately.
Oh, he's our responsibility.
It's just...
What is it?
It is getting worse.
Eleanor.
Ted Taylor.
I did hear that Louise
had passed away.
Heart attack,
at one of
our grandkids' wedding.
Oh, how terrible.
Oh, Ted, I am so sorry.
It was pretty rough.
I wanted to get in touch
with you at the time.
I just lacked the courage,
I guess.
What about you and Brian?
Oh, that finished years ago.
Divorce.
It was never really
a match made in heaven.
Did he ever suspect?
Oh, I don't think so.
You know Brian.
He only ever saw
what he wanted to see.
So, you've been
on your own ever since?
Mm.
I sometimes regret
that we didn't have children,
but you can't rewrite
the past, can you?
More's the pity.
Is there anything
you'd really change
from all those years ago?
What do you mean,
our time together?
Well, when you broke it off,
you said it was a big mistake.
I loved Louise,
I loved my little girl,
and I realized
that what I'd done
had seriously threatened
all of that.
And I really understood
your decision
as much as it broke my heart,
but I don't regret
our time together,
not for a second.
Oh, darling.
Welcome home.
-How was the flight?
-Oh, it was the best
-24 hours of my life.
-Oh, you didn't sleep.
No, not one bit
but it's all worth it
to see you little, miss.
Ted, it's Donna.
Just felt like a chat.
Give us a call. Okay, bye.
-Nathan, welcome home.
- Thanks, Donna.
Is everything good
with Granddad?
Oh, yes, it's fine.
I'll let you know
if I hear anything from him.
-Bye.
Ooh, and here he is.
Dad?
Dad, where have you been?
-Nathan.
-Granddad.
-Good to see you.
- You too, mate.
Dad, I've been ringing you.
Why didn't you answer
your phone?
-I had it turned off.
- Are you all right?
Of course I'm all right.
How was the trip?
Long, it was long.
How are you? What's going on?
Look, we'll catch up later.
I'm going to have a bit
of a lie down.
Okay, what's the story?
Oh, nothing. You know,
he's just getting old
and forgetful
like the rest of us.
Jules.
He should know.
Know what?
Hey Dad,
is Coby going to come
and work for you
once he gets out?
Yeah,
well, that's the idea,
not that I've spoken
to him for a while.
I guess you'll find out
once he lobs in the shed.
- Yeah.
Nothing was ever certain
with Coby around.
So, when does the family arrive?
That would be
once Saskia packs up
and leaves the flat,
I find a job,
and then I find us
somewhere all to live.
-No pressure then.
-No.
In the meantime, it's so
great to have you home.
Well, it's good to be back.
-How's Living Balcony going?
-Fantastic.
-Amazing.
-Great.
What, have you done
much advertising?
I mean, it's important
to get your name out there.
Yeah, we've... We've done a bit.
It's something
we have to look into.
Mm.
Could you pass
the spuds, please, Ben?
Ben?
He hasn't been gone
that long, has he?
-What?
-You just called him Ben.
- No, I didn't.
-Carbo, it's okay.
-He knows what I meant.
-Yeah, course you do.
Dad, do you want some gravy?
No, thanks, love.
Have you heard from Ben?
Yes, I saw him last week.
He's off to Berlin,
but no plans
to come home just yet.
So, how is little Edward?
Oh, good, yeah,
really good.
He's a handful,
but no he's amazing.
♪ Mmm, women ♪
♪ All around the place ♪
♪ Come and see me ♪
♪ Face to face ♪
♪ If you got troubles ♪
♪ I'm the man for you ♪
Hello.
Yes, I'd like to book
one of your gentlemen
for this evening.
Yes, I do have a particular
gentleman in mind.
Logan.
Oh, he's unavailable.
Um...
No, I'm not really interested
in anyone else.
Yes, yes, if there's any change,
that would be good.
Thank you. Bye.
The universe has spoken.
Hello?
Oh.
Logan is available?
Oh, well, wonderful.
Yes.
Well, whenever he's ready.
Thank you. Bye.
Can't argue with the universe.
♪ Women,
Come along to me ♪
♪ I'll treat you good now ♪
♪ Just wait and see ♪
♪ If you are dying ♪
♪ Of a broken heart ♪
♪ Just come and see me ♪
- Logan, hi.
-Hi.
You probably don't remember me.
Of course I remember you.
It was a month
or so ago--
Donna, I remember you.
We had a great time.
Your friend's anniversary party.
That's right.
And then back here
for a nightcap.
Yeah, I was hoping
you'd call again.
I know it's late.
I hope that's--
Oh, that's fine, really.
So, why don't we get
the business
-out of the way, first shall?
-Oh,
why don't we have
a glass of wine,
relax a bit,
and I'll give you
a foot massage.
Oh, that'd be nice,
except my feet
are a bit ticklish.
-You can set the pace.
-Hmm.
That
was a delicious meal, love.
Oh, thanks, Dad.
Where's Nathan?
Uh, calling Saskia.
Yeah.
Look, I'm sorry about today.
I didn't mean
to cause you grief.
Oh, it's okay.
I'm just glad you're all right.
Mm.
I went back to our old house.
Bumped into Eleanor McCormack.
Ended up talking
about old times.
Why'd you go back there?
There's no law against it,
is there?
No, I...
- Yeah.
-How is she?
Oh, the same.
Except 40 years older.
You know old age
has absolutely
nothing to recommend it.
Still I guess it beats
the alternative though,
-doesn't it?
-Sometimes I wonder.
Don't say that, Dad.
When Nathan's off the phone
I'll have a word with him,
bring him up to speed
on my condition.
Ah, Dad, he already knows.
-What?
- He knows.
When he got home
you weren't here.
You told him?
-Well no I--
-You had no right.
-Dad--
-You have no right
to discuss my illness with him
without my permission.
Now, I regard that
as a gross breach of trust
and I will not stand for it,
-do you hear?
-What's going on?
Dad's upset
because Nathan knows.
She told him
without my permission.
Ted, I told him.
He's family.
He has a right to know.
You told him?
That's right.
Well, maybe you're right
he is family.
Yeah.
Probably for the best.
I'm off to bed.
Night, Ted.
-Night, Dad.
Well, he went
to visit our old place.
He can't have been back there
for, like, 40 years.
He must've been
feeling nostalgic.
Yeah, maybe but he ran
into Eleanor McCormack.
Apparently,
she still lives next door.
-Are you all right about that?
- I don't know.
I just don't know where
it's all coming from you know,
choosing to see an old flame
over meeting his grandson.
Yeah, Jules,
he has to be allowed
-to live his own life.
-Yeah.
Does he have to live
in the past?
It's not like he actually
thinks it's the 70's.
Oh, I know.
Oh, I don't know I just...
I don't want to see him
getting hurt
-rekindling things.
- Yeah, like I said,
it's just a trip down
memory lane.
You can't protect Ted
from his choices, Jules.
Not yet.
Just get some sleep.
Things will look brighter
in the morning.
-You think so?
-Yeah.
Nathan's home.
Yeah, Nathan's home.
Well, that's just the way it is.
I know your father
told you earlier
but I just wanted you
to hear it from me.
You're still one
of the sharpest pencils
in the box.
Not that anyone
uses pencils anymore.
Hmm.
Anyway,
how are you travelling?
Good.
You had a good talk
with the missus?
Yeah, yeah,
she got a little bit teary.
I mean we always knew
it was going to be hard
but I just miss little Ed
so much.
It actually hurts.
I know how you feel.
When your mother was a baby,
I had to go away for work.
There I'd be in a phone booth
shoveling 20 cent pieces in
until I ran out
and they cut us off.
I never got to say
"I love you, princess".
But what you're doing is good.
You're making a future
for your family.
Just don't leave them
waiting for you
for too long, eh?
I won't.
-Ah!
That's very cruel and unfunny.
Oh, I'm sorry,
I couldn't resist.
What happened to your dozens
of mates with crash pads?
Oh, the planets must be
out of line or something.
You are homeless.
Temporarily.
Well, if you're parked
out here...
Yeah, all I really want
is to use your bathroom.
I'm hanging for a shower,
a shave and a sh...
Clean my teeth.
No hairs in the plughole,
clean up after yourself,
no puddles on the floor
and toilet seat down.
You won't even know I've been.
Ooh.
Seriously, I can't believe
you slept out here all night
without knocking on my door.
What do you think I bite
or something?
Of course not.
Oh, I know you bite.
Rubbish. All right.
Be out of here
-by the time I get home.
- Ooh.
-Morning.
- Hi.
Fifteen minutes early.
Making up for lost time?
Oh you know, new day,
new chance to suck up
with the boss.
How'd you finish up yesterday?
Yeah, all good,
all done on time.
Excellent. Well, uh, relax.
-Finish your coffee.
-Thanks, boss.
I'll be back in a tick.
Excuse me. Oi.
What are you doing?
Um, actually,
this is my backyard.
What are you doing?
Well, trying to enjoy
my morning coffee.
Didn't know
I'd be getting a concerto.
I mean what are you doing
in the Rafters' backyard,
whoever you are?
I'm Dave's new sparkie.
The name's Buzz.
Oh, as in Lightyear?
So, why are you playing
Tchaikovsky to tomatoes?
It's Vivaldi.
You're avoiding the question.
Okay, the tomatoes
belong to a guy
who used to live here
and I'm looking
after them for him.
That's really nice of you.
Weird but nice.
Look, I don't know anything
about gardening.
Maybe you could teach me?
I don't think so.
What is it Mr. Tomato Vine?
There must be something going on
if he's got you playing Vivaldi
-to his veggie patch.
-Mm.
Come on what is it?
An ex?
A long term crush?
Stop me
from getting warm husband?
Okay, you know what?
You're warm.
He's a recent ex
and if you must know
his name's Ben.
- Mmm-hmm.
-Ben Rafter.
Rafter? What as in...
That's right.
Your new boss' son.
Well, I can't gab all day.
I've got to get back
to some work.
You don't waste any time,
do you?
What? I'm just being neighborly.
No, that's good, that's nice,
if she was your neighbor.
Really? It's come to that?
Yeah, well we have
to face some facts.
The business just isn't working.
-We're heading for the wall.
- And fast.
We need an idea
because I am pretty sure
they don't make
"100% off" signs.
Well, what about
what Julie said last night?
You know a decent sized ad
in the local paper.
Yeah, but that takes money.
Yeah, in the old days
I would've asked my parents.
You can't now?
Em, they're in Greece.
And I've got no one I can ask.
Well, thank you
for a very special night.
My pleasure.
Hopefully, we can do it
again soon.
As much as I'd love to,
I don't think my finances
will stretch that far
any time soon.
Oh, it doesn't have to be
for the whole night.
We can get plenty done
in an hour.
Oh, well, I guess that's true.
My mobile number.
It's easier than going
through the agency.
Call me any time, day or night.
Well, 'til then.
-Hi.
-Hey, Emma.
Hi, I'm Craig the handyman.
Emma the daughter.
Craig here has just been
fixing my pipes.
Sink, I mean.
Just getting
a quote at this stage.
That's right.
Anyway you've got my number.
Call me if you decide
to go ahead with it.
I will.
-Are you all right?
-Yes. No.
Well, it's this whole
plumbing issue.
There's a lot of work
to be done.
-It sounds expensive.
-It is expensive
and I'm a bit stressed
about the cost.
So to what do
I owe this pleasure?
Oh, no reason, just passing.
Right, then, well,
I'll pop the kettle on.
Mmm-hmm.
Morning.
Ah, good morning, sweetheart.
How'd you sleep?
Oh, I woke up at 3:00,
fell back to sleep at 6:00.
Half the day's gone.
-Jet lag.
-Yeah.
Well, I'll make you some brekkie
-and a nice strong coffee.
-Thanks.
I'll start with the job ads
in the local rag.
-Dad.
- Mmm-hmm?
I was thinking,
if you'd like to invite Eleanor
over for a meal sometime.
What, I need permission now,
do I?
No, I was just saying.
Julie,
I do not need you interfering
in my private life.
Wow, I see what you mean.
I try and be nice and he...
just always takes
it the wrong way.
He loves you, Mom.
Look, you should've heard him
last night.
Well, he came into my room late.
He wanted to talk
about what's been going on.
-And how was that?
-Good actually.
Then we started talking
about families
and how when you were little
he couldn't bear being away
from you.
Well, things change.
-Are you okay?
-Yeah, I'm fine.
- Ooh, sorry!
-Sorry, my bad.
-Sorry.
- Hey.
Emma the daughter, right?
-Craig the handyman.
-That's right.
You've got a good memory
for names.
You too.
Yeah, in my line
of work you have to.
As a handyman?
Yeah, go figure.
Do you live around here?
No, my friends
and I opened this business.
Oh, I've seen it.
I've thought about dropping in
once or twice.
Yeah, you should.
We've got some really cool stuff
and if any of your clients
need a balcony makeover.
I'll send them your way.
It's so freaky running
into you twice in one day.
I'm not stalking you
if that's what you think.
Well, I wasn't but now
that you mention it--
Okay,
totally innocent explanation.
I live around the corner,
on my way to uni.
Oh. Learning to be a handyman?
Mm, the other way around.
I'm working as a handyman
to finance my degree.
Oh, what are you studying?
Political science.
-Wow. That's--
- Mm.
-Boring?
-Yes.
-Anyway, um--
-Yeah.
Good to see you again.
You too.
-Bye.
- Bye.
Emma.
Craig.
Ah, totally forward
isn't usually my style but...
my number.
Feel free not to use it.
Okay.
Just can you do me a favor,
if you're going
to chuck it away,
can you wait 'til
I'm out of sight?
I'm sensitive.
Sure. I can do that.
- Oh, hey. Come in.
- Hey.
Have I caught you at a bad time?
No, no, no,
I'm just blogging away.
Oh, well, I don't want
to interrupt.
No it's fine. Come in.
Hey, so, we were thinking
about what we were talking
-about at dinner last night.
-Which--
-About doing more advertising.
-Oh.
Yeah, and we were hoping
to run something in your paper.
-Well, that's great.
- Yeah.
Well it's not exactly
'my' paper.
Oh, well, you know, to us it is.
But do you think
there'd be any chance
of opening an account?
Oh, and running the ad
on credit?
I know, I know
it's pushing the friendship.
No, no, no, I don't see why not.
I mean we like
to support local business.
Oh, thank you.
Actually, you know what?
I think I could go one better.
Hey, guys, good news.
We've got 30 days
to pay for the ad
and Julie's going to write
a column about us as well.
- Yeah, good one babe.
- Ooh.
We can get her to talk up
our low prices.
No! No more discounts.
We've got to start
backing ourselves.
Yeah, Emma is right.
Let's start charging
what we are worth.
- Yeah, exactly.
-Okay, okay.
Well, let's give Julie
some ideas
-about what to write.
-Yeah, that couldn't hurt.
You know,
focus on everything
we bring to the table.
Mm, starting with your
rugged good looks.
Yeah, whoa, whoa, hey, hey.
How about my salesmanship?
Carbo, I was joking.
Yeah, and the fact
I can, you know,
-set the security systems, eh?
- Guys, just come on.
- Carbo, I was joking.
- I...
Ooh,
you're looking dapper.
Yeah, I've got a job interview.
Well, that was quick.
Yeah, I teed it up a couple
of weeks ago from London.
I've just got to make
enough adrenalin
to keep me awake
and knock their socks off.
-Do you want a lift?
-No, no, I booked a cab.
I've got to say
it's a really cool company.
It's IT, the money's good,
it's not great
but there's some
blue sky potential.
-Good.
Ooh, that's my cab.
Wish me luck.
Good luck.
Do your fly up, darling.
Watch the stool!
Ooh, ooh.
I told you to watch the stool.
-Who are you?
-I'm Jackson.
-You must be Dave.
-Yeah.
-What do you want?
-I'm Buzz's brother.
Could be half-brother.
Same mom but as for dad,
there are a few options
there, so.
Right and you,
you're waiting for Buzz or--
-Yeah. Nice place.
-Thanks.
I hope Buzz makes
a good go of this job.
You know, his last one
only lasted two weeks?
Oh, yeah, why's that?
Well, usually,
it takes them a bit longer
to work out. He's a junkie.
Of course, by then,
he'd taken anything
that wasn't bolted down.
Dave. Sorry.
This is Jackson.
-He's my--
-Brother.
Yeah, he already knows.
Don't break the other arm!
Hey, Frankie.
Don't listen
to anything he says.
He fell off his skateboard.
He's a born liar.
Oh, right,
so you're not a junkie?
No, definitely not
and he's not my brother.
He's my son.
Come on, Dad. I had him going.
I told you to wait
at the corner.
Did he tell you his real name?
-He's not interested.
-Ah, actually I am now.
I gave him the nickname
after Buzz Lightyear,
you know, the cartoon.
His real name is Fergus.
All right.
The secret's out. Let's go.
Hey, what about
knock off drinks?
Not today. Come on.
Let's do it.
And anything you've taken,
put it back.
I didn't take anything.
They're joking.
Why are you still here?
Oh, God.
Woman, you scared
the termites out of me.
I almost had a disaster
on my hands.
-What is this?
-What, it's dinner.
Lasagna and it smells awesome
if I don't say so myself.
-You cooked this from scratch?
-Yep.
Where's the mess?
Oh, there's no mess.
Yeah, clean as I go.
-How was your day?
-Good until now.
You're supposed to be gone.
Yeah, yeah, slight problem.
I still haven't found
anywhere to live.
I had to get all my stuff
out of my cab
before I handed it over
to the next driver
and it was either going to be
in the street or in here.
And your stuff is where?
Matt, no! No, no, no, no, no.
Oh, come on, mate,
I am desperate.
Matt, you move in
without asking me first.
Well, I was afraid
you were going to say no.
- I would've!
-Yep, see?
Come on, mate. Please?
Have you ever wanted
your own man slave?
I look great in a loincloth
and shackles.
God.
It does smell good.
Yeah, it tastes even better.
Better get some plates.
So...
One week maximum.
You're a lifesaver.
- It's getting late.
- It is.
I've had a lovely day, Ted.
So have I.
It's nice.
Especially after...
Well, I've been having
some hard times lately.
Are you all right?
Right now, here with you,
I have never felt better.
I'm so glad that you decided
to pay your old house
a visit, Ted.
I am too.
-Here you go, Jules.
-Oh, thanks, Carbo.
Right, so, what sets
Living Balcony apart?
Well we offer
a complete service,
consultation, design,
and supply.
And even though
we're a new business,
we have an amazing passion
for what we do.
Oh, okay.
How about we put that down
-as 'youthful energy'?
- Yeah.
Yeah. Heaps of energy. Heaps.
Well, it's hard to be tired
when you've only had one job.
Yeah, but that...
That's off, off the record.
Wouldn't write that.
Okay, and what do each
of you bring to the table?
Well, I know plants
and Retta has a fantastic
eye for design.
Two fantastic eyes.
And Carbo has
the retail experience.
See, I'm the overall mastermind
-and that's on the record.
- Yeah, mastermind,
-I don't think so.
-That's off the record.
Why don't you describe
Living Balcony in one word?
What captures the essence
of the company?
Ooh.
Fun. Fun.
Life should be fun, right?
-Yeah.
-Yes. Fun.
Good.
-And mastermind too, yeah.
-Yep.
So. you've all got high hopes
for the future.
- Definitely.
-Mmm-hmm.
Right.
No article is complete
without a picture, so.
You ready? Here we go.
Smile.
High hopes for the future,
but how things
will actually turn out
is anyone's guess.
So, let me get this straight,
a spunky plumber...
-Handyman.
-Studying politics,
-gave you his number?
-Yeah.
So, he's good with his hands
and his brain?
What are you waiting for?
Call him.
-Well, you think?
-Em, if you don't, I will.
Ring him now.
Mm...
Sweetie, you heard
what Nathan said last night.
Ben doesn't have any plans
to come home anytime soon.
I know. You're right.
So... make your move.
-Hello.
-Hello, Logan.
Oh, sorry,
it's actually Craig, isn't it?
It is.
I heard you this morning
introduce yourself
to, well, never mind.
It's Donna here.
I haven't caught you
at a bad time, have I?
Ah, no, not at all.
I bet you didn't expect
to hear from me again so soon.
I'm always pleased to hear
from you, Donna.
- Anyway,
I had such a lovely night.
-I was just wondering...
Sorry, Donna.
Do you mind if I pop you
on hold for just one second?
Oh, okay.
Hello.
Craig, hi.
It's Emma from this morning.
So, you didn't chuck my number?
Course not.
I was just wondering if
you'd like to get a coffee
maybe tomorrow?
Yeah, yeah, that'd be great.
How about lunchtime?
I could meet you
at your shop.
Fantastic. Great.
We can work out a time tomorrow.
See you then.
See you. Bye.
Sorry about that, Donna.
Well, I want to make
another booking.
A short one if that's okay.
Tomorrow night?
Same time same place?
That'd be lovely.
Great. I'll see you then.
Do you want to come in
for a cuppa?
Oh, not today. Thank you anyway.
Oh, Julie knows
all about the past.
She's a big girl now.
She understands.
Still. All in good time.
Okay. No pressure.
-Thanks for the lovely day.
-Thanks.
Need a hand, love?
That'd be great. Thanks.
Was that Eleanor?
Yeah, I asked her in
but she took a raincheck.
Dad, I'm sorry I upset you
this morning.
You didn't upset me, love.
Didn't I?
No. Whatever gave you
that idea you silly duffer.
You haven't called me that
since I was a little girl.
Oh, you'll always be
my little girl, love.
Always.
♪ When the lamps
On your street start to dim ♪
When hopes are high,
nothing can touch us.
Yeah, but how did
the interview go?
I got a serious
"don't call us,
we'll call you" vibe
but I'm not worried
because there's
plenty more jobs
and I'm going to get one.
-Mm. That was great, Dave.
- Yes.
Yes, it was surprisingly edible.
Watch it, boy.
You're not too old
to miss out on dessert.
Oh!
Yes, I'd hate to miss out
on your famous charcoal cake.
I don't think we're
going to have any dessert now.
I'm sure they said
180 degrees for 60 minutes.
With the right amount
of positive thinking,
we can face any disaster.
Start each day with high hopes
and there's always
a bright future.
with high hopes,
hopes for the good health
of our loved ones,
hopes for our kids' safety
wherever they may be,
even our unofficial kids.
We hope that work
will keep rolling in
so that bills
will be paid on time
and that family life
will go on.
♪ Living in
The moment ♪
♪ Living my life ♪
♪ Easy and breezy ♪
♪ With peace in my mind ♪
♪ With peace in my heart ♪
There's no better way
to start a new day
than with high hopes
and clean sheets.
-Baa, lamb.
- Okay,
I've made the bed,
washed extra sheets,
cleared some space
in the wardrobe.
Don't forget Nathan's
plane lands at--
-3:25.
-3:25.
All right, just checking
you've been paying attention.
Yeah, well,
you won't let us forget.
I hope the poor lad's prepared
for the smothering
he's going to get.
One of our kids is moving home.
I admit I'm excited.
Really? You're covering it
so well.
So, Dad, are you still
going to come
to the airport with me?
Yes, I am at 3:25
if memory serves.
Hold on.
"Due to ash, there's no flights
in or out of Europe
for at least two weeks."
-What?
- Yeah.
A volcano in Iceland
wreaking havoc.
-Where?
-Too easy.
-Oh, hilarious.
Not even you can ruin
my day today, darling.
-I can give it a shot.
Oh, coat hangers.
- That's beautiful.
How's it look?
Like we're kind of desperate.
Well, we kind of are.
But we've only been opened
a couple of months.
Yes, but you know what?
Our customers are out there.
Yeah, it'll be better
if they were in here.
Look, we've just got to send
out positive vibes
and we'll get positive
results in return.
Yeah, I have been but so far,
it's just all one way.
Okay, you've just
got tell yourself,
"I've got a really good
feeling about today."
Say it.
I've got a really good
feeling about today.
"Today will be the day
we land the big one."
Today will be the day
we land the big one.
-Yes.
- Yes, and if
a discount like this
doesn't get them in,
nothing will.
High hopes.
Sometimes, they need a bit
of bolstering.
So it's finally come to this?
Living out of the back
of your car.
And it's not
even your car.
Ha-ha-ha-ha-ha.
You don't fool me, missy.
Keep your eyes off my treasures.
And what I wouldn't give
for a squash racquet
and a best of John Farnham,
a dead cactus.
For your information,
it's a succulent.
It's not dead, it's...
Okay, it's dead.
One less thing Dave
will have to store for me.
So are you homeless?
Well, what do you reckon?
The lease is up,
the joint's too exy for one,
and Jake's OS, Coby's, away.
And all the animal shelters
are full.
Funny.
Well, where are you
going to live?
Oh, I'll bunk down with a mate.
You really think Dave's
going to let you
-keep all your stuff here?
-Are you kidding?
It's Dave.
-Dave!
-No.
It's only for a week.
This is a functioning
work place,
not a self-storage facility.
You won't even know
it's there, mate.
Um, no.
Well, where am I
going to put it?
You really want me
to answer that?
Buzz here?
Not yet.
Well, I know the traffic is bad.
Yeah, well, on a trial day,
the smart thing
would've been to give
yourself more time.
Let's get these vans loaded
and you,
just put that junk back
where it came from.
Righto.
God, Julie!
A man can't hear himself think
above that infernal racket!
Dad?
Dad, I'm sorry.
Buzz, look,
if something's happened,
can you please just call me?
Twenty-five minutes.
Look, honestly,
this is not like him.
He was never late
when he worked for Dad.
-Buzz here yet?
- Nope.
Oh. Hey, what's with
that name anyway?
Well, maybe his parents
were Buzz Aldrin fans, yeah?
Conceived during
the moon landing?
You know, it was quite sexy.
You know what,
I'll let him tell you.
Well, I look forward to it,
if he ever gets here.
I'll try him one last time.
Really, something major
must've happened.
Well, as long as it's not
"My car got a flat."
You know, when I was
a young sparkie,
if you were late,
you were docked.
No excuses.
You woke up three hours
before you went to bed,
lived in a shoebox,
end of the road.
And women were seen
and not heard.
How's it going?
Well, I just had a run in
with Dad out of nowhere.
"Stop that infernal racket,"
he says
and stomps from the room.
Infernal racket?
He sounds like Yosemite Sam.
-Yeah.
- Well, we all know,
mood swings are a part of it.
-He's here.
-G'day. G'day.
I'm sorry. I'm sorry.
You're not going to believe it.
I was halfway here
and my car got a flat.
What? It's true.
-Forget it. I'm Dave.
-Great.
-I'm Julie, hi.
-Buzz Graham.
-Did I mention, I'm sorry?
-Why didn't you call?
Well, my phone took a bath
in the toilet last night.
Right, well let's get moving.
We're already behind.
Look, I'll make it up to you,
I promise.
I'm rapt to be working
with Frankie again.
Yeah, glad to hear it.
Let's go.
-Okay, have a good day.
-Yeah, you too.
Give Nathan a punch for me.
Yeah, I'll see you at the
welcome home extravaganza.
Don't forget the brass band.
Yeah, I reckon
I must've run over
a bottle or a nail or something.
Or maybe a bottle full of nails.
Okay, I'll give it
a rest.
Look, you're here now.
Frankie's got the job sheet.
Just familiarize yourself
with that.
-Oh bugger, keys.
-Oh, I'll get them.
No, I know where they are.
Dude, you're late
on your first day.
-Yeah, I know.
-What got into your head?
Jackson got into my head,
that's what.
-Is everything okay?
-Yeah, everything's fine.
Don't worry,
it won't happen again.
All right, let's roll.
Does he always run everywhere?
Put the duck in the truck.
There you go, sweetheart.
Good girl.
Oh, you going out, Dad?
One of your good shirts.
Oh, it's not a crime, is it?
-No, no, I... I was just--
- A man can't sit around
all day like a bloody turnip.
No. No.
Well, it's a beautiful day
for an outing.
Where are you off to?
I haven't made up my mind yet.
You will take
your phone, though?
I will. You don't have
to remind me.
No, I was just...
But are you still going
to come to the airport
-to meet Nathan?
-If it's all right.
Yeah, of course it is.
Well, the plane lands at...
3:25 from memory.
See? I haven't lost
all my marbles yet.
Dad, no one's saying that.
But I will,
and that's the bugger, isn't it?
-Oh, Dad.
-That's life.
Well, I'll just put this away
and get a move on.
No, leave that, Dad.
I can... I can... Oh--
Julie, I can do it.
I know you can. I was just...
offering.
Are you still seeing
that bloke in remand, Cody?
Coby.
And he's not in remand.
He got convicted.
Ah, right.
So what, you're just baking
lots of cakes
with files in them?
Um, look, I haven't seen him.
No one has for ages.
He says it makes it harder.
Dumb question really.
When was the last time
you baked?
Heads up.
So Buzz, tell us a little bit
about yourself
-starting with that name.
-Not much to say, mate.
I'm a sparkie.
If the name fits, you know.
-You married?
-Nah, not married,
-never been married.
-Girlfriend?
-Nah.
An uncomplicated
life then.
Half your luck. Dave Rafter.
Yeah, that's right.
Hang on, I'll just get my book.
Are you going to tell him
about Jackson?
Nah.
Oh, hello.
Wrong number.
I was just passing,
so I thought I'd drop by.
-Do you want a quick cuppa?
-Ooh, yes, please.
What time does Nathan's plane
get in?
Oh, 3:25 which we're not
going to make it
-if Dad gets home soon.
-Oh, still,
it always takes them a while
to clear customs, doesn't it?
I had a friend,
Shirley Buckland.
-Did you ever meet Shirley?
-Nah, not sure.
Well, she got
detained in customs
for hours once coming back
from Thailand.
They called her to one side
and they gave her
-the full search.
-Oh.
Gloves and everything.
-Oh, ouch.
-Mm,
that's just what Shirley said.
Incidentally,
do you remember Logan,
my friend I brought with me
to your anniversary dinner?
Did he get the full search too?
-What?
-By customs.
No, no, no, no.
Do you remember that I told you
that he was in public relations?
Vaguely.
Well, he actually specializes
in, um...
private relations.
Not quite sure what that means.
Oh.
He's a male escort.
And I hired him for the night.
Oh.
And I was thinking
of hiring him again.
Now it's going straight
through to voicemail.
Oh, he'll be here
soon, Julie,
-I'm sure of it.
-Yeah, I'm sorry,
what were you saying?
Well, because he was off
the clock,
technically speaking,
I never did pay for--
-Sex?
-Intimacy.
So, technically speaking,
I never did engage
-the services of a--
-A professional.
I prefer escort.
Professional always sounds so--
Professional?
Well, Logan was professional,
but he was also gentle
and kind and sophisticated
and, well, you met him,
you know.
Yeah, briefly.
I mean, he didn't
exactly stick around.
-I can see why.
-So, I'm thinking
that I'm going
to employ him again,
but this time for the full
range of services.
-Oh.
Does that make me a bad person?
-A slut?
- Donna.
I mean, it's just a simple
business transaction,
don't you think?
I'm still a youngish
vital woman who has needs.
Donna, if it works for you,
then yes.
Dad, where are you? We need
to leave for the airport.
-Oh, boy, when I say needs...
- Look, I'm just...
I'm starting to get worried.
Can you please call me
when you get this message?
I'm sorry.
Here I am rabbiting on
about needs.
He'll be all right, Julie.
I know he will.
Hey, Buzz, could you just
assemble that...
bunker light?
It's a skill I have.
Yeah, thanks, Helen.
Look, if he does turn up could--
Yeah, okay, thanks.
-No luck?
-No.
It's just so unlike Dad.
Well, unlike the old Dad anyway.
Is it time to call the hospitals
-or am I being alarmist?
-You're being alarmist.
Sorry.
Maybe you should call Dave.
Hey, what's up?
I can't find Dad.
-What do you mean?
-Well, he went out,
he took his phone,
he said he'll be home
in time for the airport
and he's not.
Can you go without him?
You won't be that long.
Yeah, I know, it's just...
If he's confused, I don't...
I don't want him
coming home to an empty house.
Okay, well, you wait there
for Ted
-and I'll go and fetch Nathan.
-Are you sure?
Yeah. No worries.
I'm sure everything
will be fine.
Great, thanks.
I've got to go
and pick up Nathan.
You guys all right
to finish up here?
-Yeah, sure.
- Great.
Well, I'll see you tomorrow.
You too, Buzz.
Bright and early. Promise.
It looks like you got the job.
Against all odds, huh?
-So who's this Nathan bloke?
-That's his son.
-What is he, a kid?
-Oh, early 20s.
What, he needs his old man
to pick him up?
I guess some parents
just like to be responsible.
Pretty funny, aren't you?
Hm?
Poor Ted, poor you.
You know how he can be.
And it's getting worse?
Yeah, by degrees.
Mood swings, angry outbursts.
I'm sorry.
I haven't been able to spend
much time with him lately.
Oh, he's our responsibility.
It's just...
What is it?
It is getting worse.
Eleanor.
Ted Taylor.
I did hear that Louise
had passed away.
Heart attack,
at one of
our grandkids' wedding.
Oh, how terrible.
Oh, Ted, I am so sorry.
It was pretty rough.
I wanted to get in touch
with you at the time.
I just lacked the courage,
I guess.
What about you and Brian?
Oh, that finished years ago.
Divorce.
It was never really
a match made in heaven.
Did he ever suspect?
Oh, I don't think so.
You know Brian.
He only ever saw
what he wanted to see.
So, you've been
on your own ever since?
Mm.
I sometimes regret
that we didn't have children,
but you can't rewrite
the past, can you?
More's the pity.
Is there anything
you'd really change
from all those years ago?
What do you mean,
our time together?
Well, when you broke it off,
you said it was a big mistake.
I loved Louise,
I loved my little girl,
and I realized
that what I'd done
had seriously threatened
all of that.
And I really understood
your decision
as much as it broke my heart,
but I don't regret
our time together,
not for a second.
Oh, darling.
Welcome home.
-How was the flight?
-Oh, it was the best
-24 hours of my life.
-Oh, you didn't sleep.
No, not one bit
but it's all worth it
to see you little, miss.
Ted, it's Donna.
Just felt like a chat.
Give us a call. Okay, bye.
-Nathan, welcome home.
- Thanks, Donna.
Is everything good
with Granddad?
Oh, yes, it's fine.
I'll let you know
if I hear anything from him.
-Bye.
Ooh, and here he is.
Dad?
Dad, where have you been?
-Nathan.
-Granddad.
-Good to see you.
- You too, mate.
Dad, I've been ringing you.
Why didn't you answer
your phone?
-I had it turned off.
- Are you all right?
Of course I'm all right.
How was the trip?
Long, it was long.
How are you? What's going on?
Look, we'll catch up later.
I'm going to have a bit
of a lie down.
Okay, what's the story?
Oh, nothing. You know,
he's just getting old
and forgetful
like the rest of us.
Jules.
He should know.
Know what?
Hey Dad,
is Coby going to come
and work for you
once he gets out?
Yeah,
well, that's the idea,
not that I've spoken
to him for a while.
I guess you'll find out
once he lobs in the shed.
- Yeah.
Nothing was ever certain
with Coby around.
So, when does the family arrive?
That would be
once Saskia packs up
and leaves the flat,
I find a job,
and then I find us
somewhere all to live.
-No pressure then.
-No.
In the meantime, it's so
great to have you home.
Well, it's good to be back.
-How's Living Balcony going?
-Fantastic.
-Amazing.
-Great.
What, have you done
much advertising?
I mean, it's important
to get your name out there.
Yeah, we've... We've done a bit.
It's something
we have to look into.
Mm.
Could you pass
the spuds, please, Ben?
Ben?
He hasn't been gone
that long, has he?
-What?
-You just called him Ben.
- No, I didn't.
-Carbo, it's okay.
-He knows what I meant.
-Yeah, course you do.
Dad, do you want some gravy?
No, thanks, love.
Have you heard from Ben?
Yes, I saw him last week.
He's off to Berlin,
but no plans
to come home just yet.
So, how is little Edward?
Oh, good, yeah,
really good.
He's a handful,
but no he's amazing.
♪ Mmm, women ♪
♪ All around the place ♪
♪ Come and see me ♪
♪ Face to face ♪
♪ If you got troubles ♪
♪ I'm the man for you ♪
Hello.
Yes, I'd like to book
one of your gentlemen
for this evening.
Yes, I do have a particular
gentleman in mind.
Logan.
Oh, he's unavailable.
Um...
No, I'm not really interested
in anyone else.
Yes, yes, if there's any change,
that would be good.
Thank you. Bye.
The universe has spoken.
Hello?
Oh.
Logan is available?
Oh, well, wonderful.
Yes.
Well, whenever he's ready.
Thank you. Bye.
Can't argue with the universe.
♪ Women,
Come along to me ♪
♪ I'll treat you good now ♪
♪ Just wait and see ♪
♪ If you are dying ♪
♪ Of a broken heart ♪
♪ Just come and see me ♪
- Logan, hi.
-Hi.
You probably don't remember me.
Of course I remember you.
It was a month
or so ago--
Donna, I remember you.
We had a great time.
Your friend's anniversary party.
That's right.
And then back here
for a nightcap.
Yeah, I was hoping
you'd call again.
I know it's late.
I hope that's--
Oh, that's fine, really.
So, why don't we get
the business
-out of the way, first shall?
-Oh,
why don't we have
a glass of wine,
relax a bit,
and I'll give you
a foot massage.
Oh, that'd be nice,
except my feet
are a bit ticklish.
-You can set the pace.
-Hmm.
That
was a delicious meal, love.
Oh, thanks, Dad.
Where's Nathan?
Uh, calling Saskia.
Yeah.
Look, I'm sorry about today.
I didn't mean
to cause you grief.
Oh, it's okay.
I'm just glad you're all right.
Mm.
I went back to our old house.
Bumped into Eleanor McCormack.
Ended up talking
about old times.
Why'd you go back there?
There's no law against it,
is there?
No, I...
- Yeah.
-How is she?
Oh, the same.
Except 40 years older.
You know old age
has absolutely
nothing to recommend it.
Still I guess it beats
the alternative though,
-doesn't it?
-Sometimes I wonder.
Don't say that, Dad.
When Nathan's off the phone
I'll have a word with him,
bring him up to speed
on my condition.
Ah, Dad, he already knows.
-What?
- He knows.
When he got home
you weren't here.
You told him?
-Well no I--
-You had no right.
-Dad--
-You have no right
to discuss my illness with him
without my permission.
Now, I regard that
as a gross breach of trust
and I will not stand for it,
-do you hear?
-What's going on?
Dad's upset
because Nathan knows.
She told him
without my permission.
Ted, I told him.
He's family.
He has a right to know.
You told him?
That's right.
Well, maybe you're right
he is family.
Yeah.
Probably for the best.
I'm off to bed.
Night, Ted.
-Night, Dad.
Well, he went
to visit our old place.
He can't have been back there
for, like, 40 years.
He must've been
feeling nostalgic.
Yeah, maybe but he ran
into Eleanor McCormack.
Apparently,
she still lives next door.
-Are you all right about that?
- I don't know.
I just don't know where
it's all coming from you know,
choosing to see an old flame
over meeting his grandson.
Yeah, Jules,
he has to be allowed
-to live his own life.
-Yeah.
Does he have to live
in the past?
It's not like he actually
thinks it's the 70's.
Oh, I know.
Oh, I don't know I just...
I don't want to see him
getting hurt
-rekindling things.
- Yeah, like I said,
it's just a trip down
memory lane.
You can't protect Ted
from his choices, Jules.
Not yet.
Just get some sleep.
Things will look brighter
in the morning.
-You think so?
-Yeah.
Nathan's home.
Yeah, Nathan's home.
Well, that's just the way it is.
I know your father
told you earlier
but I just wanted you
to hear it from me.
You're still one
of the sharpest pencils
in the box.
Not that anyone
uses pencils anymore.
Hmm.
Anyway,
how are you travelling?
Good.
You had a good talk
with the missus?
Yeah, yeah,
she got a little bit teary.
I mean we always knew
it was going to be hard
but I just miss little Ed
so much.
It actually hurts.
I know how you feel.
When your mother was a baby,
I had to go away for work.
There I'd be in a phone booth
shoveling 20 cent pieces in
until I ran out
and they cut us off.
I never got to say
"I love you, princess".
But what you're doing is good.
You're making a future
for your family.
Just don't leave them
waiting for you
for too long, eh?
I won't.
-Ah!
That's very cruel and unfunny.
Oh, I'm sorry,
I couldn't resist.
What happened to your dozens
of mates with crash pads?
Oh, the planets must be
out of line or something.
You are homeless.
Temporarily.
Well, if you're parked
out here...
Yeah, all I really want
is to use your bathroom.
I'm hanging for a shower,
a shave and a sh...
Clean my teeth.
No hairs in the plughole,
clean up after yourself,
no puddles on the floor
and toilet seat down.
You won't even know I've been.
Ooh.
Seriously, I can't believe
you slept out here all night
without knocking on my door.
What do you think I bite
or something?
Of course not.
Oh, I know you bite.
Rubbish. All right.
Be out of here
-by the time I get home.
- Ooh.
-Morning.
- Hi.
Fifteen minutes early.
Making up for lost time?
Oh you know, new day,
new chance to suck up
with the boss.
How'd you finish up yesterday?
Yeah, all good,
all done on time.
Excellent. Well, uh, relax.
-Finish your coffee.
-Thanks, boss.
I'll be back in a tick.
Excuse me. Oi.
What are you doing?
Um, actually,
this is my backyard.
What are you doing?
Well, trying to enjoy
my morning coffee.
Didn't know
I'd be getting a concerto.
I mean what are you doing
in the Rafters' backyard,
whoever you are?
I'm Dave's new sparkie.
The name's Buzz.
Oh, as in Lightyear?
So, why are you playing
Tchaikovsky to tomatoes?
It's Vivaldi.
You're avoiding the question.
Okay, the tomatoes
belong to a guy
who used to live here
and I'm looking
after them for him.
That's really nice of you.
Weird but nice.
Look, I don't know anything
about gardening.
Maybe you could teach me?
I don't think so.
What is it Mr. Tomato Vine?
There must be something going on
if he's got you playing Vivaldi
-to his veggie patch.
-Mm.
Come on what is it?
An ex?
A long term crush?
Stop me
from getting warm husband?
Okay, you know what?
You're warm.
He's a recent ex
and if you must know
his name's Ben.
- Mmm-hmm.
-Ben Rafter.
Rafter? What as in...
That's right.
Your new boss' son.
Well, I can't gab all day.
I've got to get back
to some work.
You don't waste any time,
do you?
What? I'm just being neighborly.
No, that's good, that's nice,
if she was your neighbor.
Really? It's come to that?
Yeah, well we have
to face some facts.
The business just isn't working.
-We're heading for the wall.
- And fast.
We need an idea
because I am pretty sure
they don't make
"100% off" signs.
Well, what about
what Julie said last night?
You know a decent sized ad
in the local paper.
Yeah, but that takes money.
Yeah, in the old days
I would've asked my parents.
You can't now?
Em, they're in Greece.
And I've got no one I can ask.
Well, thank you
for a very special night.
My pleasure.
Hopefully, we can do it
again soon.
As much as I'd love to,
I don't think my finances
will stretch that far
any time soon.
Oh, it doesn't have to be
for the whole night.
We can get plenty done
in an hour.
Oh, well, I guess that's true.
My mobile number.
It's easier than going
through the agency.
Call me any time, day or night.
Well, 'til then.
-Hi.
-Hey, Emma.
Hi, I'm Craig the handyman.
Emma the daughter.
Craig here has just been
fixing my pipes.
Sink, I mean.
Just getting
a quote at this stage.
That's right.
Anyway you've got my number.
Call me if you decide
to go ahead with it.
I will.
-Are you all right?
-Yes. No.
Well, it's this whole
plumbing issue.
There's a lot of work
to be done.
-It sounds expensive.
-It is expensive
and I'm a bit stressed
about the cost.
So to what do
I owe this pleasure?
Oh, no reason, just passing.
Right, then, well,
I'll pop the kettle on.
Mmm-hmm.
Morning.
Ah, good morning, sweetheart.
How'd you sleep?
Oh, I woke up at 3:00,
fell back to sleep at 6:00.
Half the day's gone.
-Jet lag.
-Yeah.
Well, I'll make you some brekkie
-and a nice strong coffee.
-Thanks.
I'll start with the job ads
in the local rag.
-Dad.
- Mmm-hmm?
I was thinking,
if you'd like to invite Eleanor
over for a meal sometime.
What, I need permission now,
do I?
No, I was just saying.
Julie,
I do not need you interfering
in my private life.
Wow, I see what you mean.
I try and be nice and he...
just always takes
it the wrong way.
He loves you, Mom.
Look, you should've heard him
last night.
Well, he came into my room late.
He wanted to talk
about what's been going on.
-And how was that?
-Good actually.
Then we started talking
about families
and how when you were little
he couldn't bear being away
from you.
Well, things change.
-Are you okay?
-Yeah, I'm fine.
- Ooh, sorry!
-Sorry, my bad.
-Sorry.
- Hey.
Emma the daughter, right?
-Craig the handyman.
-That's right.
You've got a good memory
for names.
You too.
Yeah, in my line
of work you have to.
As a handyman?
Yeah, go figure.
Do you live around here?
No, my friends
and I opened this business.
Oh, I've seen it.
I've thought about dropping in
once or twice.
Yeah, you should.
We've got some really cool stuff
and if any of your clients
need a balcony makeover.
I'll send them your way.
It's so freaky running
into you twice in one day.
I'm not stalking you
if that's what you think.
Well, I wasn't but now
that you mention it--
Okay,
totally innocent explanation.
I live around the corner,
on my way to uni.
Oh. Learning to be a handyman?
Mm, the other way around.
I'm working as a handyman
to finance my degree.
Oh, what are you studying?
Political science.
-Wow. That's--
- Mm.
-Boring?
-Yes.
-Anyway, um--
-Yeah.
Good to see you again.
You too.
-Bye.
- Bye.
Emma.
Craig.
Ah, totally forward
isn't usually my style but...
my number.
Feel free not to use it.
Okay.
Just can you do me a favor,
if you're going
to chuck it away,
can you wait 'til
I'm out of sight?
I'm sensitive.
Sure. I can do that.
- Oh, hey. Come in.
- Hey.
Have I caught you at a bad time?
No, no, no,
I'm just blogging away.
Oh, well, I don't want
to interrupt.
No it's fine. Come in.
Hey, so, we were thinking
about what we were talking
-about at dinner last night.
-Which--
-About doing more advertising.
-Oh.
Yeah, and we were hoping
to run something in your paper.
-Well, that's great.
- Yeah.
Well it's not exactly
'my' paper.
Oh, well, you know, to us it is.
But do you think
there'd be any chance
of opening an account?
Oh, and running the ad
on credit?
I know, I know
it's pushing the friendship.
No, no, no, I don't see why not.
I mean we like
to support local business.
Oh, thank you.
Actually, you know what?
I think I could go one better.
Hey, guys, good news.
We've got 30 days
to pay for the ad
and Julie's going to write
a column about us as well.
- Yeah, good one babe.
- Ooh.
We can get her to talk up
our low prices.
No! No more discounts.
We've got to start
backing ourselves.
Yeah, Emma is right.
Let's start charging
what we are worth.
- Yeah, exactly.
-Okay, okay.
Well, let's give Julie
some ideas
-about what to write.
-Yeah, that couldn't hurt.
You know,
focus on everything
we bring to the table.
Mm, starting with your
rugged good looks.
Yeah, whoa, whoa, hey, hey.
How about my salesmanship?
Carbo, I was joking.
Yeah, and the fact
I can, you know,
-set the security systems, eh?
- Guys, just come on.
- Carbo, I was joking.
- I...
Ooh,
you're looking dapper.
Yeah, I've got a job interview.
Well, that was quick.
Yeah, I teed it up a couple
of weeks ago from London.
I've just got to make
enough adrenalin
to keep me awake
and knock their socks off.
-Do you want a lift?
-No, no, I booked a cab.
I've got to say
it's a really cool company.
It's IT, the money's good,
it's not great
but there's some
blue sky potential.
-Good.
Ooh, that's my cab.
Wish me luck.
Good luck.
Do your fly up, darling.
Watch the stool!
Ooh, ooh.
I told you to watch the stool.
-Who are you?
-I'm Jackson.
-You must be Dave.
-Yeah.
-What do you want?
-I'm Buzz's brother.
Could be half-brother.
Same mom but as for dad,
there are a few options
there, so.
Right and you,
you're waiting for Buzz or--
-Yeah. Nice place.
-Thanks.
I hope Buzz makes
a good go of this job.
You know, his last one
only lasted two weeks?
Oh, yeah, why's that?
Well, usually,
it takes them a bit longer
to work out. He's a junkie.
Of course, by then,
he'd taken anything
that wasn't bolted down.
Dave. Sorry.
This is Jackson.
-He's my--
-Brother.
Yeah, he already knows.
Don't break the other arm!
Hey, Frankie.
Don't listen
to anything he says.
He fell off his skateboard.
He's a born liar.
Oh, right,
so you're not a junkie?
No, definitely not
and he's not my brother.
He's my son.
Come on, Dad. I had him going.
I told you to wait
at the corner.
Did he tell you his real name?
-He's not interested.
-Ah, actually I am now.
I gave him the nickname
after Buzz Lightyear,
you know, the cartoon.
His real name is Fergus.
All right.
The secret's out. Let's go.
Hey, what about
knock off drinks?
Not today. Come on.
Let's do it.
And anything you've taken,
put it back.
I didn't take anything.
They're joking.
Why are you still here?
Oh, God.
Woman, you scared
the termites out of me.
I almost had a disaster
on my hands.
-What is this?
-What, it's dinner.
Lasagna and it smells awesome
if I don't say so myself.
-You cooked this from scratch?
-Yep.
Where's the mess?
Oh, there's no mess.
Yeah, clean as I go.
-How was your day?
-Good until now.
You're supposed to be gone.
Yeah, yeah, slight problem.
I still haven't found
anywhere to live.
I had to get all my stuff
out of my cab
before I handed it over
to the next driver
and it was either going to be
in the street or in here.
And your stuff is where?
Matt, no! No, no, no, no, no.
Oh, come on, mate,
I am desperate.
Matt, you move in
without asking me first.
Well, I was afraid
you were going to say no.
- I would've!
-Yep, see?
Come on, mate. Please?
Have you ever wanted
your own man slave?
I look great in a loincloth
and shackles.
God.
It does smell good.
Yeah, it tastes even better.
Better get some plates.
So...
One week maximum.
You're a lifesaver.
- It's getting late.
- It is.
I've had a lovely day, Ted.
So have I.
It's nice.
Especially after...
Well, I've been having
some hard times lately.
Are you all right?
Right now, here with you,
I have never felt better.
I'm so glad that you decided
to pay your old house
a visit, Ted.
I am too.
-Here you go, Jules.
-Oh, thanks, Carbo.
Right, so, what sets
Living Balcony apart?
Well we offer
a complete service,
consultation, design,
and supply.
And even though
we're a new business,
we have an amazing passion
for what we do.
Oh, okay.
How about we put that down
-as 'youthful energy'?
- Yeah.
Yeah. Heaps of energy. Heaps.
Well, it's hard to be tired
when you've only had one job.
Yeah, but that...
That's off, off the record.
Wouldn't write that.
Okay, and what do each
of you bring to the table?
Well, I know plants
and Retta has a fantastic
eye for design.
Two fantastic eyes.
And Carbo has
the retail experience.
See, I'm the overall mastermind
-and that's on the record.
- Yeah, mastermind,
-I don't think so.
-That's off the record.
Why don't you describe
Living Balcony in one word?
What captures the essence
of the company?
Ooh.
Fun. Fun.
Life should be fun, right?
-Yeah.
-Yes. Fun.
Good.
-And mastermind too, yeah.
-Yep.
So. you've all got high hopes
for the future.
- Definitely.
-Mmm-hmm.
Right.
No article is complete
without a picture, so.
You ready? Here we go.
Smile.
High hopes for the future,
but how things
will actually turn out
is anyone's guess.
So, let me get this straight,
a spunky plumber...
-Handyman.
-Studying politics,
-gave you his number?
-Yeah.
So, he's good with his hands
and his brain?
What are you waiting for?
Call him.
-Well, you think?
-Em, if you don't, I will.
Ring him now.
Mm...
Sweetie, you heard
what Nathan said last night.
Ben doesn't have any plans
to come home anytime soon.
I know. You're right.
So... make your move.
-Hello.
-Hello, Logan.
Oh, sorry,
it's actually Craig, isn't it?
It is.
I heard you this morning
introduce yourself
to, well, never mind.
It's Donna here.
I haven't caught you
at a bad time, have I?
Ah, no, not at all.
I bet you didn't expect
to hear from me again so soon.
I'm always pleased to hear
from you, Donna.
- Anyway,
I had such a lovely night.
-I was just wondering...
Sorry, Donna.
Do you mind if I pop you
on hold for just one second?
Oh, okay.
Hello.
Craig, hi.
It's Emma from this morning.
So, you didn't chuck my number?
Course not.
I was just wondering if
you'd like to get a coffee
maybe tomorrow?
Yeah, yeah, that'd be great.
How about lunchtime?
I could meet you
at your shop.
Fantastic. Great.
We can work out a time tomorrow.
See you then.
See you. Bye.
Sorry about that, Donna.
Well, I want to make
another booking.
A short one if that's okay.
Tomorrow night?
Same time same place?
That'd be lovely.
Great. I'll see you then.
Do you want to come in
for a cuppa?
Oh, not today. Thank you anyway.
Oh, Julie knows
all about the past.
She's a big girl now.
She understands.
Still. All in good time.
Okay. No pressure.
-Thanks for the lovely day.
-Thanks.
Need a hand, love?
That'd be great. Thanks.
Was that Eleanor?
Yeah, I asked her in
but she took a raincheck.
Dad, I'm sorry I upset you
this morning.
You didn't upset me, love.
Didn't I?
No. Whatever gave you
that idea you silly duffer.
You haven't called me that
since I was a little girl.
Oh, you'll always be
my little girl, love.
Always.
♪ When the lamps
On your street start to dim ♪
When hopes are high,
nothing can touch us.
Yeah, but how did
the interview go?
I got a serious
"don't call us,
we'll call you" vibe
but I'm not worried
because there's
plenty more jobs
and I'm going to get one.
-Mm. That was great, Dave.
- Yes.
Yes, it was surprisingly edible.
Watch it, boy.
You're not too old
to miss out on dessert.
Oh!
Yes, I'd hate to miss out
on your famous charcoal cake.
I don't think we're
going to have any dessert now.
I'm sure they said
180 degrees for 60 minutes.
With the right amount
of positive thinking,
we can face any disaster.
Start each day with high hopes
and there's always
a bright future.