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Alistair’s not keen on a party for his birthday, but Jim’s determined and Jazzer’s on board. He remarks that Chelsea similarly doesn’t want a fuss for her upcoming eighteenth. Money’s tight, so she won’t be lucky enough to get a big do. Alistair suggests kindly that she shares his party, and that Brad could come too to celebrate his exam results. Jazzer thanks him for his generosity. Alistair reckons both kids deserve it.
Shula suggests to Justin that Alice might make a suitable replacement for her to manage the Stables. She’s spent all her life around horses. Justin agrees but questions Alice’s business experience. Shula reckons she has the necessary skills. Justin also points out Lilian’s reservations – she’d be worried the responsibility might hamper Alice’s rehabilitation progress. Shula’s confident Alice’s skills outweigh the risks, and offers to sound her out.
Ben laments the loss of the old Ruairi, but Beth points out it’s important to allow people to change a little and still have room for them. She can’t see what Ben has against Ruairi’s girlfriend when he hasn’t even met her, but Ben remains stubborn. They’re distracted by Bess, who’s dug up some pants in the field. To their surprise Jill admits they’re hers. It’s part of a soil health monitoring initiative – you bury cotton pants and see how well they rot down. Jill comments it’s nice to see Ben and Beth walking the fields. Beth reminds her of herself, a townie with a good country boy who cares deeply for her. Beth assures Jill the feeling’s mutual.