09/03/2021
Jazzer’s short with Jim in the shop, still stung by the reaction to Jade at Greenacres. Alice arrives in need of serious chocolate to take her mind off a nagging back pain. As the pains grow it’s clear it’s contractions. With six weeks until her due date Alice is fearful. Jazzer and Jim work together to get her into Jim’s car. On their way to do some baby shopping Emma and Chris are discussing Emma’s intention to stand for parish council Chair when they take a call from Jazzer, who explains the situation with Alice. Already in Borchester, they arrange to meet Alice, Jazzer and Jim at the hospital. On the way to the hospital Alice starts to want to push. Jim stops the car and goes to find local help, leaving bewildered Jazzer to stay with Alice and dial 999. His prevarication is stemmed by Alice’s desperation and fear, and galvanised, Jazzer takes charge. Between them Jazzer and the call handler do their best to talk Alice along. Alice’s fears that the baby’s coming too soon, coupled with a fleeting memory of her hallucination in the bathroom a few months ago, threaten to overwhelm her. She lashes out and is desperate for Chris to be with her. Jazzer gently calms and reassures Alice, reminding her of her strength, and the baby girl is born. After a tense moment of silence, she emits a tiny cry.