Chapter 30

Chris hosts Patrice during her half-term visit, trying to impress her with healthy habits and a planned jazz dinner at Le Pont Noir. Before they leave, Donna calls: Ryan Baird has been arrested following a tip about drugs and a stolen bank card.

Chris drives to the station, interviews Ryan, and hears claims of being framed by a “plumber.” With cocaine and Ibrahim’s bank card found at the flat, Chris and Donna decide there is sufficient evidence and charge Ryan with possession with intent to supply and robbery.

Later, Chris, Patrice, and Donna meet in the snug at Le Pont Noir. They reconstruct the Club’s role: Ibrahim’s stolen phone, Ron posing as a plumber, and Elizabeth likely sourcing the cocaine. Patrice questions the legality; Donna emphasizes they followed the evidence, expecting Elizabeth has anticipated any courtroom pitfalls.

Patrice is impressed and curious about the Club, but Chris prefers to keep his personal life separate, joking the group would rush them into marriage. The trio’s banter underscores Chris and Patrice’s growing intimacy, with Donna playfully policing boundaries.

They note Elizabeth’s unusual silence despite Ryan’s arrest. The night ends with Patrice signaling she wants to leave with Chris, while Donna reacts with mock disgust, and the unresolved question of Elizabeth’s whereabouts lingers.