23/02/2025

Frustrated Natasha thinks Emma’s wasting her time pursuing the water company when she should be focusing her efforts increasing footfall at the Tearoom. Later she apologises for being snippy, admitting she’s worried. They’re losing money and it’s demoralising. She’s pleased to see Kirsty, joking she’s at least one paying customer. Kirsty wonders whether Natasha and Tom have had a chance to progress the house purchase. Natasha promises they’ll all sit down together soon. Her priority currently is getting the business back on a firm footing. Emma suggests a Pancake Day initiative, and after some debate they settle on a pancake eating contest. What have they got to lose? Azra confides to Lynda there’s no chance they’ll be back in their own house in time for Ramadan – the house smells and the utility room is still damp. Kirsty reports she’s got a professional company in to clean her house. They’re doing a complete refit. She can’t afford to wait, she just needs the house sold. Later Azra explains to interested Lynda how she manages her and the family’s fasting arrangements, admitting that this year will be particularly challenging with all the stress of the house. Lynda suggests contacting Justin to see if he can advise on who should take responsibility for the sewage issues. Meanwhile she offers Azra the use of her kitchen as much as she needs it – she and Robert will work round her. In a moment of inspiration Lynda offers to fast alongside Azra so that they’re synchronised.