Episode 4303

Australian Air Date: 25th October 2006

Jack is saddened by the reality his marriage has come to an end, as Ash and Martha’s romance blossoms. Brad continues to be tormented by the gang. Rocco is forced to succumb to Johnny’s threats in fear of his own life.

Extended Summary

The police are busy questioning Amanda and Peter, who are both still shaken after their ordeal. Peter is frustrated that they can’t give a description. Peter thanks Amanda, although things aren’t rosy between them, Peter has seen a caring side from Amanda. Fitzgerald comments on perhaps calling into the hospital to see Jack and mentions how sad she is to hear his marriage has ended. Ash uses the opportunity to dig for some info on Martha – clearly he’s still secretly pining for her.

Peter arrives home with Leah, Dan and Drew and Drew who comments on Peter changing his tune about Amanda. Peter bites back insisting Drew needn’t make things harder for her, given her ordeal. Peter races to his jacket retrieving his pills and once again checking the coast in clear, he downs a few and instantly feels relieved…he’s in a bad way. Later, Amanda is there when Peter drops the pill bottle and she notices what they are – clearly his problem is a lot more worse than she originally thought. Peter realises he can’t hide it any longer and opens up to Amanda about his addiction. Amanda promises she still cares about him and will keep it a secret.

Martha is at the hospital fussing over Jack. He insists she’s not obligated to do that but Martha insists she wants to. Jack questions if Martha has seen Ash lately and she instantly becomes awkward. Despite her denial there’s anything happening between them, Jack is saddened further when he realises Martha is no longer wearing her wedding band. Fitzgerald arrives at the hospital, followed shortly by Ash who has found a clue at Amanda’s. As they discuss the chain found on the floor, Brad passes on his way to see Rachel when he spots the chain… he knows exactly who that belongs too. Ash and Fitzgerald are instantly curious.

Sally and Brad are taking care of Rocco following his assault. The police arrive to question him about the chain found at Amanda’s and if he has ever seen Johnny wearing it. Rocco is as nervous as hell but quickly finds an excuse, leaving Sally and Brad frustrated that he keeps covering for his brother. The police leave but Rocco is clearly worried as they edge closer to the truth. Johnny walks around smugly, knowing there’s not a damn thing they can do about it! Meanwhile, Brad walks into his apartment and is startled to see Johnny sitting on the lounge and Johnny wastes no time in threatening Brad for dobbing him in with the cops. Johnny tells him to watch his back before moving off, leaving Brad well and truly rattled.

Back at the hospital, Ash has popped in to spend some time with Jack. Ash talks of Martha and Jack questions him on it. Ash openly admits he likes her and although it takes a lot of guts, Jack insists things are over between him and Martha so if Martha wants to move on, that’s fine with him. Ash appreciates it, knowing how hard it must be. Later, Ash visits Martha to talk to her about his conversation with Jack. Martha is surprised but agrees she wants to see Ash – their relationship is starting to blossom. But it’s in contrast to the lonely Jack who is laying in his hospital bed, staring at his wedding ring. His face is one of deep sadness as he finally accepts his marriage to Martha is over.