Episode 2.7 - The Setup
Written by Phil Ford
Produced by Brian Park
Directed by Jim O'Hanlon
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Helen has returned to Larkhall in a new Home Office position, much to the delight of Nikki and the dismay of Fenner and Hollamby. Helen is beginning to settle into her new relationship with Nikki, and her new job. Her new post means that she will have access to all Lifers’ files, including Nikki’s, but she is shocked when she reads Nikki’s statement to the police – is she a cold-blooded murderer after all? But before Helen can read further, Karen interrupts and offers her a drink. Over glasses of whisky, Helen advises Karen to keep a close eye on Fenner and not to trust him an inch.
Fenner, believing that he is in a position of power over Yvonne, tries to up the ante in their financial arrangements. But Jim discovers who’s really in control when he walks into Yvonne’s cell and sees photographs of himself receiving his pay-off. But there is worse to come when Yvonne concocts an escape plan. She will receive news that Charlie’s health has taken a downward turn. Fenner will arrange for her to be taken to the hospital, but on the way, the car will be hijacked and he will allow her to escape. Later, Lauren arrives in the visiting room in tears, but it isn’t an act, it’s for real – Charlie has been arrested and this time he’s in real trouble.
Helen goes to the library and confronts Nikki about the disturbing contents of her file. The statement Nikki made to the police did her no favours and thanks to the judge’s recommendations, it could be at least ten years before her case is reviewed. Helen, barely able to ask, needs Nikki to reassure her that she isn’t the cold-blooded killer described in the file. Needing some time alone, they head into the art room, but Helen breaks Nikki’s impassioned kiss. They talk about their relationship and Helen confesses that she is worried about the way her life is heading. Nikki tries to provide support, but she needs confirmation that Helen is as committed as she is. Helen reassures her – she won’t rest until Nikki is free.
Yvonne’s compassionate visit goes ahead, but she complains of a stomach upset on the way to the hospital. The car is pulled over outside a pub and Hollamby and Yvonne head into the ladies, where Yvonne locks herself in a cubicle and makes a bid for freedom out the window. Fenner is waiting outside when he catches a glimpse of a newspaper and sees news of Charlie’s arrest on the front page. He realises Yvonne is trying to escape and that, with Charlie inside, he can now stop her. Back at Larkhall, Fenner can’t hide his delight in Yvonne’s downfall. She tries to put on a tough front, but once alone, she breaks down in tears.
Zandra’s new glasses don’t seem to be the answer to her headaches and dizzy spells. She is sure that it’s something more serious, but the POs are un-supportive, still believing that she’s using drugs. Only after a serious seizure is Zandra finally sent to the hospital for tests. Upon her return, Zandra confirms that she is feeling much better now that she has been dosed up with proper painkillers. She is relieved that, with proper medical care, she can now look forward to getting better. Karen however, has received a phone call from the hospital and knows different.