Season 3, Episode 26: "Fear and loathing" (original air date: October 30, 2002)

Nicky is prepared to gift to Cliff an entire drawer in her bedroom, but won't admit she's wary about commitment. Apart from this, all in her world is civilised and good: She is a caring doctor who gets gifts of marmalade from the grateful Reids and gives lifts to former patients like Henry Chadwick.

However, at the mail box that evening, everything changes. Nicky gets mugged by an unseen assailant, who takes her car - and her doctor's bag, with a large amount of morphine meant for Errol Reid. Nicky can't help but suspect Henry, since she discussed this with him. She expects Cliff to side with Henry, but he has an open mind. Henry strenuously denies any wrongdoing and Cliff believes him. But when Nicky returns to visit the Reids again, she finds that they have also had an attempted burglary. She can't ignore the obvious connection. She tells Ken her suspicions.

Cliff is very unhappy to hear this, sure that Nicky has jumped to conclusions. She feels misunderstood and upset. Seeing how shaken she is by the whole incident, Cliff offers a solution. He could move in. This kind offer lays something on the line. Nicky isn't keen. A distinct frost descends over the relationship.

Paradoxically, things seem much more straightforward with Kieran. He is concluding helpful home security suggestions on the street, when Henry passes. Nicky is awkward. Henry feels hurt and is therefore rude. All Kieran sees is Nicky's distress and decides to have a word about manners to Henry. When this turns into a scuffle, Henry is injured.

The next Nicky hears of it, Karina Chadwick is blaming Nicky for her son's injuries. The good citizens of Bassett are divided on the topic of vengeance - according to Gabrielle, Kieran's a real man. According to Manu, the situation needs to be sorted, presumably by Cliff. Seeing his rivals occupied, Alistair offers Nicky protection and company.

Louise meanwhile, seeks passion in the form of tango lessons. But it only provides another weapon in Ross's arsenal for her former relationship crimes. Louise admits her anguish to William, but he can offer no comfort.

As a result of Cliff's intervention, the assailant is discovered and Henry's name cleared. Nicky invites Cliff over and it looks as though all will be happy again. Except they both know that now the real truth is out about their relationship.