6548: Carmel makes a move on Karl

When Karl learns of Ajay's marriage problems, he offers to cancel their Christmas performance at the community centre. However, Carmel insists that Ajay could use the distraction and convinces Karl to encourage Ajay to play. Karl soon regrets his decision after Ajay is forced to cross with Paul, but he is relieved when Rani's surprise attendance leaves Ajay buoyed.

A grateful Karl thanks Carmel for her insight and gives her a lift home. But seeing the cramped conditions at Susan's place, he steps up and offers her his spare room. Carmel gladly accepts and when she misreads Karl's signals over dinner, she decides it's time for her to make a move. But how will Karl respond?

Meanwhile, Chris struggles to hold back on giving Aidan support ahead of his disciplinary hearing. He is relieved to learn that Aidan's job is safe, and he hopes this will return their relationship to normal. However, as Aidan continues to offer Chris help but not accept it in return, Chris starts to worry their relationship is fundamentally unequal.

Elsewhere, Sophie is thrown when Rani pushes her away, quickly blaming Paul for ruining their friendship. But when Kate urges Sophie to see Rani's point of view, she pushes through Rani's anger to offer her support.