Dee falls in love with a local plumber after she moves to the street so that she can get her children into a better school. Their happiness is threatened though when she meets his father.

Nick Calshaw attempts to call his family from Afghanistan where he is serving in the army and ends up leaving leaving a message which leaves his family worried. Later they learn from two army officers that he has been involved in an accident. Nick's family throw a surprise party for him on his return home but are shocked by the extent of his injuries. Nick attempts to seek sanctuary with girlfriend Gemma but soon becomes increasingly depressed and withdrawn.