Episode 6361

Extended Summary

Ricky’s world spins on its axis as she’s filled with shock and rage at Brax’s unexpected return. She can’t believe that he let her think he was dead for six months. Brax calms her down, and explains that the day she visited him in gaol with Casey made him realise he couldn’t spend 20 years waiting to be with them. But after lagging on Gunno and getting in the accident, Brax knew that Ricky and Casey would be safer if he pretended to be dead. Ricky thinks that Brax should have let her in on his plan, but he believes he did what was best at the time for everyone. Brax tells her that he’s been on the move since he escaped and trying to find Sam. If he can get Sam to confess he set Brax up he’ll clear his name, and get less time than for a murder charge. But Ricky’s firm, making it clear she hates what Brax has done.

Brax tries to wait for Ricky in the flat but his worry gets the better of him, and he finds her looking out at the waves. Ricky reveals that everything changed for her the day she found out Brax was dead. She admits that there was a time when she thought she wouldn’t get over losing him. Hating himself, Brax tries to apologise, but Ricky refuses to forgive him. Back at home, Brax asks Ricky how she got through it. She tells him she was relieved to be free of a life of being told what to do by him, of putting things aside for him. Brax defends himself, arguing that everything he did was to protect her and his family. Ricky apologises for snapping, but tells him she’s engaged to Nate now. He always puts her first and treats her with respect. Despite this, Brax tells Ricky he’ll never stop loving her and moves in for a kiss. But Ricky pulls back at the last moment and walks away.

When Ricky comes back Brax asks her to get Casey and go on the run with him. She thinks he’s crazy, but he knows they can make it work if she just says she wants to. Ricky takes a moment alone to consider her options, truly torn between Brax and Nate. She finds Brax in the backyard and tells him it’s too late – she’ll keep his secret, but she loves Nate and her life is with him now. Brax knows that this is the end for them, and asks to see Casey. She agrees to let him visit tomorrow. Brax leaves and Ricky’s bravado crumbles as she begins to sob.

Brax goes to the beach, and as he reflects over a photo from happier times, Ricky holds Casey close in hospital. Brax knows he’s lost Ricky forever, and he’s cut to his core.