The uneasy tension between Harper and Jo only deepened when Harper later walked into the surf club and was greeted with a sight she could hardly bear. There, in full view of everyone, Jo was briefly cradling baby Archie, helping Tane out for just a moment. To outsiders it might have seemed like an innocent gesture, but to Harper it felt like a betrayal, a sharp reminder of just how entangled Jo was becoming in the two most important parts of her life — her child and her ex-fiancé. The image of Jo holding Archie cut Harper to the core, stirring jealousy and discomfort in equal measure.

Meanwhile, Tane’s mind was elsewhere, focused on the bombshell news that the Beach House was officially on the market. Concerned for Harper and Archie’s future, he wasted no time in offering them a solution. With genuine sincerity, he suggested that Harper move in with him, pointing out that his spare room could give both her and their son some stability. For Tane, the arrangement would be a dream come true — the chance to have Archie under his own roof every night, to be there for the small, everyday moments that fatherhood so often misses.

But for Harper, the suggestion landed like a ton of bricks. The idea of moving back in with Tane, after everything that had happened between them, was unthinkable. The wounds from their failed relationship were still too fresh, and the thought of sharing a home again only filled her with dread. She rejected the offer outright, making it clear that no matter how practical it might seem, she couldn’t bear to put herself through that kind of emotional turmoil.

Next week, while Harper wrestles with her options, Irene sits down with Leah (Ada Nicodemou) to carefully map out the details of her long-awaited travel plans. The conversation is filled with excitement and anticipation, as Irene dreams of the adventures that lie ahead. But their planning session is suddenly interrupted when Irene’s phone rings. On the other end is her real estate agent, calling with news that takes her completely by surprise: David has officially made an offer on the Beach House. The development not only leaves Irene stunned, but also raises new questions for Harper, Dana, and everyone else connected to the property, as the future of the iconic home suddenly hangs in the balance.

Irene stumbles as the weight of the news truly sinks in, her composure faltering under the sudden rush of reality. For so long, the idea of selling the Beach House had been discussed in abstract terms — a plan for the future, a step she’d eventually take. But now, with a concrete offer on the table, it no longer feels distant. The sale of her beloved home is no longer just a possibility; it’s a decision that demands to be faced head-on. The walls that have sheltered countless memories, laughter, and heartbreaks over the years suddenly feel closer, as if pressing in on her, reminding her that once she lets go, there will be no turning back.

Leah, sensing Irene’s unease, gently reassures her. She reminds her friend that the decision is entirely hers to make. If Irene feels she needs more time, there’s no rush — she can pack at her own pace, tie up loose ends, and continue planning her trip in a way that feels right. Leah’s words are kind, practical, and full of support, aimed at easing Irene’s turmoil.

But deep down, Irene knows that the luxury of time isn’t something she can count on anymore. Her Alzheimer’s diagnosis has forced her to face the fragility of her future, and every passing day is a reminder that her independence is slowly slipping away. As much as she longs to delay the inevitable, she also recognises the importance of seizing the moment while she still can. The pull between wanting to hold onto her home and needing to embrace her final adventure is agonising, and for the first time Irene feels the true emotional cost of the choice before her.

When Dana walks in and overhears Irene mentioning the offer, she’s taken aback, realising just how close Irene is to selling up.

Irene assures Dana and Harper that nothing’s been finalised, and admits she feels guilty about the effect her decision will have on them and Archie. Harper encourages her not to worry, to put herself first for once, and Dana agrees—they’ll manage, like they always do.