Nikau chases after a humiliated Naomi, insisting that she must be confused. Defiant, Naomi accuses Nikau of being confused. He says he has a girlfriend, but why isn’t she here?
John checks in with Nikau after his decision not to attend the ceremony. Feeling attacked by both Alf & Naomi, Nikau becomes defensive, declaring that he hates being the centre of attention. John is understanding – Nikau should have just said so earlier. Frustrated, Nikau demands John give him the day off work. John is unimpressed. Is this the new, unreliable Nikau?
A compassionate John & Tane plan a more low-key celebration for Nikau, away from the spotlight. John books a table at Salt & invites Naomi. Meanwhile Tane works on Nikau – they don’t get many wins in their family so they should appreciate the rare ones they get. Taking responsibility, Nikau apologises to John and agrees to a celebration lunch. But Nikau’s mood takes a sour turn when Naomi arrives. Tane notices the awkwardness between them. John turns the mood around with a heartfelt speech congratulating Nikau’s courage. But John goes too far when he pushes Naomi & Nikau together for a memorial photo, sending Nikau out in a rage.
Feeling unresolved, Naomi shows up at Nikau’s house to confront him – there is something undeniable between them that could be realised if Nikau weren’t holding out for Bella’s return. Brutally, Nikau sends Naomi packing, saying he never wants to see her again. Tane presses Nikau for details about what happened with Naomi, Nikau concedes that maybe he gave her mixed signals, but didn’t intend to. A tormented Nikau wishes that Bella was around to make everything right.
Roo makes a determined pitch to Alf to keep Tex on as a handyman. Everyone sings Tex’s praises and it would allow Alf to see Martha in Merimbula whenever he liked. Alf concedes the idea has merit, maybe they should offer Tex a permanent position?
Arriving late for work, Chloe is flustered and apologetic. When Irene suggests it may be time to lessen her load, Chloe quits on the spot. A regretful Chloe feels like she is letting everyone down by not managing the double work load. Marilyn has a more positive take – perhaps this is a blessing in disguise? Refusing to concede there’s a problem, Chloe resolves to ask for her job back.
Leah worries that Chloe won’t confide in her – she thought Chloe was family now. Why is she pushing Leah away? A wise Justin advises that it takes time & trust. Besides, Leah is Chloe’s boss and her boyfriend’s aunt – she probably seeks Leah’s approval.
Irene & Leah make the ‘tough love’ decision to fire Chloe. But it’s delivered with support – they want Chloe to pursue her dreams as a businesswoman and the Diner is holding her back. Still paralysed by guilt, Chloe begs to keep her job. But Leah & Irene give Chloe their blessing to go work full time at the gym since it’s a great opportunity for her. Chloe is relieved.
Tane finds the missing photo of Mia & Ari on his car with a threatening note attached – ‘Your brother stole our money. We want it back.’ Tane looks around, fearfully. Who is after him?
Home and Away airs weekdays at 1.45pm on Channel 5
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