Concerned Ruth allows Leonard to continue trying to be useful as he recovers from his injury; he’s getting busy vacuuming. David’s not sure how much more he can take. Ruth points out they can’t order him not to help. After damaging a lampshade, Leonard helps Ruth and David with fresh bedding for the Herefords. Leonard talks fondly of his son in Singapore, who he misses. Leonard feels like a hindrance. Ruth and David show their appreciation and offer him more jobs to take on: he can be on mulled wine duty for guests in the events barn this evening. Leonard realises he’s better helping around the farm than in the house, but as David lists more jobs, Ruth points out he’s not free labour. Later Leonard tells them how much he’s looking forward to sharing this special time of year with them. He hasn’t looked forward to Christmas this much for a long time. David assures him the feeling’s mutual.

Susan reminds Emma that they can’t force George to see them. Brad reports back from his prison visit that George thinks it’s better for everyone not to have any contact for a while. Someone else has visited George, though, but Brad didn’t find out who. Susan tries to distract Emma by talking about the upcoming concert at St Stephen’s. Emma’s snappy, before apologising as they reflect on how awkward it is between the Grundys and Carters right now. Emma would like all the people she loves to be together for Christmas, but that’s not going to happen.

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