Amber Thomas, Darcy sister, stops in Wandin Valley with her boyfriend Howie on their way to Sydney. Leaving town, they are involved in a car accident that kills Howie and leaves Amber brain dead. Esme insults Hugo croissants instigating a bake-off between the two. Darcy father arrives and is told about Amber's accident. Looking for a horse, Kate passes on what could very well be the perfect horse in favour of an old broken down horse that used to work in the circus.