Episode 6 brings us one of the most emotional and season-altering chapters we’ve seen so far. Long-buried secrets surface, marriages are pushed to their breaking point and a violent storm changes several lives forever. Things get pretty dramatic by the end of the episode that could change the future for almost every major character.### Archie and Caitlin’s Relationship Turns Dangerous
The episode starts with Archie coming home and developing photographs in his darkroom. He is excited to spend time with Caitlin, and does not see that some of the images show Maud’s secret relationship with Tony.
The two get even closer when Caitlin shows up. Their time together quickly becomes intimate, and then the mood changes when Caitlin stumbles upon the pictures. And then, all at once, the truth can no longer be denied. The pictures confirm her worst fears about her mother’s affair with Tony.
Caitlin leaves the darkroom to escape the situation and runs into Monica. Monica warmly greets her and insists she stay, unaware of all that has happened. But the secret pictures soon reveal a painful truth that Monica can no longer ignore.# Monica Has Her Breaking Point At Last
For years, Monica has put up with Tony’s selfishness and repeated betrayals. This is the episode where she finally loses it.
She does not immediately face the scandal but destroys the photographs. The emotional damage has already been done. Tensions explode over dinner when Archie confronts Tony. The illusion of a happy family, well tended, begins to fray.
As a storm brews, Monica walks out of the house, feeling lost in everything she’s been learning. A later talk with Lizzie helps her see how much of her life has been sacrificed for duty and appearances.
Monica goes home to face Tony and demand a divorce, with new clarity. Tony makes apologies and excuses to try to save the marriage but Monica is not going to be manipulated anymore. She publicly shames him for his actions, and reveals her disgust in how he has exploited Maud in his ongoing feud with Declan.
Monica, for the first time, chooses herself over obligation.# Declan and Maud Have a False Sense of Hope
With chaos breaking out elsewhere, it seems Declan and Maud are working on their relationship. Working on Maud’s television project together brings them together and their growing closeness gives hope that their marriage may survive.
The emotional climax of Declan’s confession is when he admits that he never acted on his attraction to Cameron. He promises Maud that he will always be loyal and loving towards her, believing that honesty will strengthen their relationship.
Unfortunately, viewers know a devastating truth that he has yet to learn. Maud still cannot confess her affair with Tony, a ticking time bomb that could blow apart everything they rebuilt.# Lizzie opts for passion over stability
Lizzie’s emotional rollercoaster continues as she struggles with her feelings for Freddie. She knows what the stakes are, but is increasingly convinced she can’t help but feel.
Her chat with Monica, and a creative breakthrough for her novel, inspire Lizzie to make a bold choice. She drives through the storm to visit Freddie and finally tells him that she loves him.
The two finally share a romantic moment long-desired, but their relationship is still complicated. The scene provides us with emotional satisfaction but also raises serious questions about the future, and whether their choices will ultimately lead to happiness or regret.# Rupert and Taggie Get Closer
The chemistry between Rupert and Taggie is building all through the episode.
Taggie comes to the rescue when one of Rupert’s horses disappears in the storm. Cameron is further frustrated by her kindness, which once again emphasizes the connection between them.
The conditions deteriorate and Rupert offers Taggie a lift home. She worries about the dangerous weather and asks him to stay the night. The request sounds innocent enough, but it further underlines the growing emotional intimacy between the two of them.
The episode continues to push them toward a turning point that must be inevitable, however the relationship is not resolved.# The Storm Brings Mourning
The final act presents a devastating twist.
Monica is determined to get Caitlin home safe and sound and drives into increasingly treacherous weather. In another part of town, Tony understands the ramifications of Monica discussing the affair, and warns Maud that the truth may soon get out.
Before any clash can take place, disaster strikes.
Monica crashes into a fallen tree. Caitlin survives and manages to get help but Monica isn’t so fortunate.
The storm has cut the communication lines so Rupert has to deliver the heartbreaking news in person. Monica was killed in the accident.
The revelation devastates everyone, particularly Tony, who now has to live with the consequences of their last argument.# Summary
Episode 6 might be the most important episode of the season so far. Killing off Monica is a shocker and immediately changes the direction of the story.
Monica had become one of the most interesting characters on the show. After years of disappointment and betrayal, she was finally beginning to reclaim her life. Her decision to divorce was a major turning point, making her sudden death all the more tragic.
The loss also leaves Tony with a lot of uncertainty. Monica was often the one person who could rein in his worst impulses. Without her around, he could be even more destructive in future episodes.
It’s emotionally understandable that Lizzie would go after Freddie, but she might be doing so recklessly. The relationship might simply lead to more problems in the future, rather than solving her problems.
The story of Rupert and Taggie continues to test the patience of viewers. Their chemistry is undeniable, but the delays are starting to feel long drawn out. Eventually the series is gonna have to decide if they’re gonna get together or move on from the romantic tension.
The most painful disclosure may still be on its way. The heartbreak of Maud’s affair being discovered is compounded by Declan’s devotion to her. When the truth is revealed, it may be one of the most emotionally gut-wrenching moments of the season.
Rating: 4.5/5 *
A powerful episode full of emotional confrontations, big character developments and a shocking ending that changes the course of the entire season.