Cirrus@Austlit

Fred is disconcerted when Nikki fires a series of questions at him. Though he tries for humour in his responses, she does not unbend towards him.

Meeting Adam makes Jess feel inadequate. Adam seems to have everything worked out - his house plans, his house, even his future garden. He seems very positive and certain about everything. Jess, an artist eking out a precarious living, is used to feeling left out by this talk of houses and plans and mortgages. She is surprised when he says something encouraging about her work.

Peter wants someone to share his life but is sure it is not Chrissy, whose bright red lipstick, fluttering eyelashes and desire to name her daughter Unique fill him with a strong desire to flee. Peter does not want children. He thinks the world is over-populated as it is.

Paul doesn't want to explain to Beth that his last girlfriend, Trish, died of melanoma. So he pretends they broke up via text message. Beth tells him she broke up with a guy three hours into a twelve hour dance-a-thon. Paul is intrigued: he would like to learn to dance. They smile at each other.

Harry is transfixed by the breasts of Polly seated opposite him. He tells her he is a structural engineer. He imagines Polly as a model, or an exotic dancer, but is surprised and pleased to learn she is a successful architect.

Tara finds herself across the table from Malcolm, with whom she once had a one night stand. Malcolm had seemed interested in getting to know her better back then, but Tara had brushed him off.