Beyond Paradise’s Anne flustered about “delicate” Mr Smith news – but we’re left hanging
Could this be exactly what Humphrey needs?
lt fully in her latest interaction with the detective.
Martha’s mum, who’s recently become a local councillor, crossed paths with Mr Smith on the golf course, which resulted in her being given a seat on the police and crime panel. So, she’d been spending some time in the office, shadowing Humphrey, observing the rest of the team, and lending a hand where needed – which Margo wasn’t thrilled one joy about.
And if Humphrey had it his way, she wouldn’t be anywhere near his work. But he kept that one to himself.
Will Anne prove to be a help or a hindrance? The jury’s still out – although we have a feeling it could be the latter.
Towards the end of the episode, when everyone had left for the day, Humphrey stayed behind to catch up with some work when his mother-in-law appeared and asked if she could have a word.
“It’s delicate, it’s about James Smith,” she explained. But that was enough to get Humphrey all fired up and shut the conversation down.
“Right. Well if James Smith has another demand of me, I’d like a hazard warning first, maybe a siren,” he snapped. And if this is about me hurrying up and firing one of my team due to an impossibly small budget, then kindly tell him I’ve tragically perished!”
Deep breaths, Humphrey.
While her news could be any one of a number of things – and we’d be here all day if we began running through the various scenarios – Anne’s demeanour, and the use of the word “delicate”, both heavily imply that it’s a private matter Mr Smith would rather stay, well, private.
And that could work in Humphrey’s favour.
Despite his efforts to find ways for the station to cut costs and protect his team, he’s had zero success – with Mr Smith continuing to push for a decision. And even if Humphrey were able to come up with alternative savings, his boss wouldn’t budge; for him, it’s about asserting control — and Humphrey’s attempts to dodge him have only riled him further.
So, will it be Anne, armed with some “delicate” news about Mr Smith, who saves the day?
With Humphrey’s decision now imminent, they need to act quickly.
Beyond Paradise season 4 airs on BBC One and iPlayer at 8pm on Friday.
