Sara

Episode 1

Pilootaflevering (pilot)

50 mins

Recent college graduate Sara De Roose, a rather unsightly good worker without any fashion-sense, auditions for the job -also coveted by the bitchy receptionist Britt Van Hove- of executive secretary in fashion enterprise Présence, to gentleman Simon Van Wyck, the successful commercial director above designer Marnix Standaardt, who just heard his father Léon Van Wyck is finally about to step down as director general (CEO) and leaves the choice of his succession to the board, which means the financial director Alexander de Lannoy, orphaned son of the other co-founder, is going to fight Simon for it. Helena de Lannoy, Alexander's sister and Simon's fiancée, insists the job goes to Britt, the devil she knows. Sarah accepts instead a lower, open job in the 'economaat', logistics clerks mainly in charge of office supplies, under office secretary Ellen; she tells former college friend Arne, who runs a pub, not her proud dad Hans, who would be terribly disappointed. Sara's first day is so horrible she almost chucked it in, despite some kindness shown by a few colleagues including the runner Thomas, but one glance at Simon, who would have been her direct boss, and is reluctant to accept Britt, changes her mind, whirling with girlish butterflies.

Episode 2

Episode #1.2

Now Sara has dragged drunk commercial director Simon from his Porsche just before it exploded after the fashion show, saving his life without serious injury so he can come to work the next morning, his father, CEO Léon who's about to step down, insists Simon must show his appreciation; when he learns Sara is a college graduate who wanted the executive assistant job, Simon decides to give her that job; as his fiancée Helena insists to keep Britt on, the compromise is to create as second EA job, but instead of sharing the office desk with Britt, Sara gets a glorified broom closet.

Episode 3

Episode #1.3

The reconverted filing cabinet she must use as office makes Sara consider to decline the secretary job, but that changes when Simon's division of labor almost turns rival Britt into the window-dressing. The mysterious ex-con Koen is back in Antwerp, and seems to blame Thomas for his sentence. Sara notices Simon's "business meeting" is actually fashion journalist Brenda, a floozy, and tries to cover versus his fiancée Helena, who hears about it from Britt. Still nobody listens to Sara about the errors she alone spotted in the Powerpoint presentation, which Helena orders her to hand back over to Britt. Simon has insisted his agenda is to be seen by nobody, and Sara holds out denying it to Helena, who even threatened with immediate dismissal, but is told off by Simon.

Episode 4

Episode #1.4

Simon still insists to Helena that Brenda is just an ex and a fashion journalist, but shares a hotel room with the old bag in boxer shorts, claiming his engagement to Helena is to get her vote for the CEO post. Sara is caught trying to spy in Alexander's PC, gets invited to go out by ex-con Koen when he hears her tell to Arne she likes runner Thomas, who is hitting with the new supplies clerk, then gets dumped by Britt with the hurried representatives from the Dutch firm Van Veen, who are not amused Simon is absent at the agreed time; her clumsiness amuses them enough to wait, yet Simon is all but grateful. Alexander conspires with Brit, to make sure Simon's presentation to the board will be embarrassing.

Episode 5

Episode #1.5

Supply clerk An Verbiest is happy to hear from runner Thomas he isn't engaged either, while Simon is a hopeless flirt. Desperate now Simon seems to have turned against her, Sara accepts to go out with Koen and writes a farewell notice. Alexander sees his CEO cards go sour when Simon pops champagne: Van Veen has placed its major order. He tells Sara to tear up the resignation she just failed to nick from his desk and even that he needs a woman like her; she stupidly imagines that to be meant romantically. When she refuses to give information about Présence, Koen dumps her sneering nobody would want to be seen with such an ugly critter. Back home, she suddenly realizes Simon's presentation isn't adjusted for indexation. Helena keeps pestering Simon about his unexplained lateness.

Episode 6

Episode #1.6

The board vote for the next CEO approaches. Britt plays double game, promising Alexander to sabotage Simon's presentation while kissing his lieutenant Lieven. In the pub, Anne is surprised how strongly Thomas feels about Koen's verbal abuse of Sara; when Arne shows the ex-con the door, Thomas even fights to enforce the expulsion; later his mother Ellen embarrasses the brave gentleman in the firm as if he were an unruly schoolboy. Alexander plants doubt in the mind of founder Léon, Simon's own father's, about spying on his files using Sara. Sara switches the presentation disks at the last minute, as Simon finds for the better, but fears to be bullied for her bursting in. Yet by a single vote Simon carries the day and gets Présence's helm. Alexander bets for Simon's resignation or the sale of his own shares that Simon's megalomaniac business plan will sink the ship in less then a year.

Episode 7

Episode #1.7

Sara was happy to see Simon triumphant at his acceptance champagne reception, even got commended for her help, but appalled to be ordered to put his reckless bet with Alexander on paper and sad he's taking his father's office and leaving her in the converted broom-closet, now far from him. Even Sara's dad Hans, the only one who bothered to bring colleague Martine to hospital and visit her, thinks Sara is too good to rush pucking up Simon who's thrown out of his taxi for throwing up drunk as a skunk and help him change shirt in his office before he heads for his fiancée Helela, which requires the night guard George's help.

Episode 8

Episode #1.8

Helena fixates on Simon's changed shirt, supposing him unfaithful, ironically the one time he was too drunk to cheat on her; Britt eagerly confirms Simon lied about being with her all night, Sara saves his bacon by bringing in the vomit-soiled shirt, as reward he decides to keep his office close to hers. Thomas barks bitch Britt off, his bossy mother nags such a dangerous enemy can easily cost him his job, hinting at some earlier drama. Designer Marnix isn't prepared to work even harder to serve Simon's ambitions, and considers his plan to launch a perfume line 'stinks'; Sara must study if this can bring in 10% more sales, suggests a real estate alternative, decides only after Arne's encouragement to persist after Simon told her off without even hearing the details.

Episode 9

Episode #1.9

Alexander refuses to give Sara numbers for her efficiency study, but fails to get his sister Helena on his side, she even intends to work out an alternative plan for Simon with Britt. Sara's dad Hans is finally tempted to try his grateful colleague Martine's car; their nursery boss Roger is as grumpy and impatient as always. When Simon plays with Lieven on the 'ideal partner choice' DVD he confiscated from Britt this stirs another of Sara's absurd pink dreams about him as her adoring lover. Meanwhile Simon keeps fooling around with Brenda behind Helena's back, working late Sara catches them kissing on his desk, him with his pants down. Now Simon orders his executives to give Sara all necessary documents, and she finds an expensive 21% error on the cost of fabrics.

Episode 10

Episode #1.10

Designer Marnix obviously won't hear about saving on fabrics, so the CEO intends to replace some top-quality used for the creations with knock-offs for actual production. Marnix gets wind of it, and Alexander dares him to make his theatrical threat to leave serious. Sara realizes she should demand a pay fitting her new responsibilities, but swallows her complaint about the minimum wage for Simon's bet's sake. Thomas's mother Ellen De Graeve admits to a colleague she always told the boy his -in fact emigrated- father was dead, but he just returned to Belgium. Simon keeps juggling his fiancée Helena and lover Brenda, a dangerous game despite Sara's help. Lieven convinces Brenda to 'make Simon jealous' by dating him, so he brushes off Britt, who finds out about Sara's mission to collect sales data behind Helena's back for Simon's business plan.

Episode 11

Episode #1.11

Gay designer Marnix teases hot runner Thomas about his straight crush for Annie. Simon has another flirt date, swimming with model Margot. Since Helena viciously opposes Sara collecting 'her' shops' sales data for Simon's business plan, Sara gets them working with Arne from his pub PC; they are quite disappointing, so Simon decides on the spot to launch a publicity campaign, Sara should budget it. Britt and Helena spot Lieven dating Brenda. Ex-con Koen taunts Thomas.

Episode 12

Episode #1.12

Thomas is embarrassed by the theft -as he suspects by Koen- of the GPS from the Présence van he neglected to close up properly; his ma worries Koen will become as big a problem as 'before', Marnix promises to cover the boy if necessary, but Thomas decides to pay for a new one himself. Britt and Alexander manage to sneak into Sara's computer guessing her password is 'Simon' but Simon catches them before they had a good look at the numbers. Sara's pa Hans's colleague Martine has to help him start his ancient car, he finally asks her price for hers. To Simon's surprise, Alexander casts the decisive vote for his new publicity campaign, and even suggests a far bigger one, over double the budget: to be saved elsewhere, perhaps closing some stores, a declaration of war in Helena's eyes, so she turns to her ex, labor union rep Steven.

Episode 13

Episode #1.13

The rumor Présence would close some shops causes panic, especially with Anne whose mother works in one, but after a threatening visit from her labor union mate and Steven, Simon tells Helena it was just a hypothesis, Sara has an alternative: a contest for Antwerp's graphics students, dead cheap, and carried by the board. Now he needs money for a car, dad Hans insists even more Sara should go for a more fitting wage. Flattery won't make Marnix consider any savings on fabrics. After Simon slips out to Marnix the wedding dress he designs for Helena won't be needed for months, she gets a reassuring ring, which shatters Sara's romantic delusions about actually almost ingrate Simon.

Episode 14

Episode #1.14

Sara picks Simon's initialed engagement ring for her rival Helena, but can't get it off after trying it for size; Lut helps her get it off, but now she drops it down the sink drain, Thomas gets it out but Simon gets it a day late and all dirty. Her dad Hans has decided to take a loan to buy Martine's car but the bank decides his income and mortgage disqualify him. Simon demands a year to prepare a wedding in style. Brit plays games to make Sara seem unreliable.

Episode 15

Episode #1.15

When Sara takes dad's car loan on her name, he notices her minimal wage. Thomas and Annie get stuck in the elevator. Mother Ellen and girl-friend Annie decide last-minute to throw a surprise party in Arne's café for Thomas' birthday. When Marnix catches Lieven kissing Britt while searching Thomas, she suggests he sends Sara on an errand, who just arrived back, Simon is not amused, she grumbles to be demoted to interim runner, but is tickled-pink she 'must' receive the arts students submitting campaign ideas, but Britt makes Lieven allow her to handle part- the boys, but the first manages to monopolize her attention, clearly willing to return for more intimacy, while eternal flirt Simon takes a girl student to lunch. To Britt's fury, Simon supports Sara's romantic pick over her young beau's abstract design.

Episode 16

Episode #1.16

Only Alexander opposes Sara's campaign choice at the board: carried. Simon agrees to update her contract and charges her with a campaign budget, but the numbers confirm his 10% bet with Alexander is practically hopeless. Britt tries in vain to make personnel chief Lieven block Sara's promotion, then asks Helena the same raise. Silly Sara fantasizes the surprise party preparations are for her from Simon, till she's invited to Thomas's birthday. When Présence's computer network crashes, Britt claims Sara let a virus in, so she gets Arne, who solves it and e-mails around it came from Britt's PC. Thomas's party is a real surprise and a hit, even his boss Marnix came, but so does ex-con Koen, who is thrown out and prepares a violent revenge.

Episode 17

Episode #1.17

While Thomas' party rocks, vindictive ex-con Koen swings his bat in the underground parking, especially at Sara's dad's 'new' car, and he had 'postponed' the insurance; Thomas guesses right. Lieven assures Simon he lets no girl sleep with him, just to avoid steady hassle. Simon's retired dad Leon clearly still worries about Présence. One consoling cuddle from Simon when she arrives late in tears sets her romantic fantasies in motion once more.

Episode 18

Episode #1.18

An extra zero in a supply order has caused a huge overstock. Simon and Lieven try to hide the problem, especially for Alexander, Marnix refuses any cooperation, just now Simon's pa Leon drops by, bad for his heart. Sara is told to falsify the numbers, but Alexander finds out soon; Sara insists on a loan, based on her business plan, which banker Hermans pre-approves. After a written order to help solve the stock problem (recycling?) Marnix gives his notice, even Thomas can't find his designs portfolio, Simon has no choice but grovel in the designer's gay bar and agree to raise his budget.

Episode 19

Episode #1.19

Marnix has his demands promised and triumphs in a rather ostentatiously queer way. Leo has an urgent cardiology appointment. The police has caught Koen, but he denies everything. Now she has no car, Thomas drives Sara to the golf club where he once was a professional caddy, to deliver business papers to Simon, only her cheap appearance means no-entry. Britt has financial problems, so she flirts and asks Lieven for a loan, in vain, then signs for papers from the bank she shows to Alexander, who tells her to open the envelop 'by accident', for which simple service she extorts payment of her rent.

Episode 20

Episode #1.20

While Alexander already knows as Britt opened the bank's envelop in Sara's name, Simon and Lieven conspire in the gym how to keep the loan secret. Simon reproaches Alexander to have read the papers, he counters the board will be asked for a check-up of all numbers, Helena leans rather to her brother. Simon's retired pa Leon promises his cardiologist to take it really easy but can't stop worrying about Présence. Sara is tickled when Simon promotes her to personal assistant, even retrograde, but is asked as a favor to doctor all numbers into a fake budget, and Arne points out a promotion without a fitting raise is a bad joke. Hans fears his boss Roger's business problem will cost him his job. Thomas meets his old school friend Tine and makes a date for the evening. Sara spots Simon kissing another floozy.

Episode 21

Episode #1.21

Thomas's innocent date makes Annie jealous. Arne brings Sara and Hans champagne to make up and celebrate her official promotion properly. Pa panics when the wallpaper proves beyond repair because he can't afford a professional, but Lut offers to do it for free. Simon suggests his parents should visit their foster child in Ivory Coast to distract dad Leon who has a weak heart. The bitchy battle of Simon's secretaries continues.

Episode 22

Episode #1.22

Lieven joins the doubts about Sara's promotion, Simon still believes her despite the lie she threatened to fire Britt. Leon claims a clean bill of health and accepts to take an African holiday. Thomas is shunned because of his misunderstood date with Tine who kissed him till he gets a chance to explain properly. Alexander claims all numbers in Simon's absence, the boss insists they must doctor the accounting. Leon already knows about it but is turned away by Simon, Sara lies for him. Hans treats his wallpaper-volunteer to a home-cooked dinner, privately as Sara is working late on the books.

Episode 23

Episode #1.23

Simon orders Britt to buy a small gift for a girl, to be delivered by -oops- for Sara. At Lut's suggestion, Hans trades the wallpaper in for painting, the next day, they choose a red shade. Simon can't be bothered with his wedding details, least of all a day before another crucial board meeting. Sara worked late and arrives late next morning. When Simon blatantly tells Britt she's now Sara's subordinate, she's ready for Alexander's web; she sends Sara on a wild goose chase to Marnix, but instead of copying deletes the 'updated' numbers.

Episode 24

Episode #1.24

Sara convinces Simon to delay the board meeting so she can re-enter the data Britt deleted; Alexander suggests to Leon it's dodgy, and urgently demands an audit; Alexander has a friend waiting to do it his way, Daniel De buck. Now Britt has refused the job, Marnix recruits Ann as creative fitting model; Thomas likes the sight, but an innocent cellphone photo he takes causes her to run off to Arne, where he brings her flowers and even uses the L-word, but doesn't want any colleagues to know. Meanwhile Simon goes on preparing the launch of a perfume line and lures manufacturer's representative Michèle Devos to his place.

Episode 25

Episode #1.25

Britt and Helena are convinced Simon's lack of attention is work stress, actually it's just flirts and floozies, this time including perfume rep Michèle, who drops the engagement ring; Sara must retrieve it before Helena notices, launching a bubble bath and champagne fantasy with her as good as imaginary 'dream prince'. Thomas is back in favor, kissing in the lift. Britt no longer buys Lievens excuse his place is too messy to receive her, or anyone, she cancels their date; Alexander secretly desires her. Helena convinces Simon to take a day off together, so Sara gets carte blanche for the campaign posters; Britt makes the deadline notice disappear. . .

Episode 26

Episode #1.26

Sara has made an ass of herself by not noticing an obvious, hilarious anomaly on the publicity poster proof prints she approved: the boy's zipper is open! Simon is livid, orders the whole batch canceled to avoid ridiculing the firm Présence, but Helena agrees with Sara's suggestion to try it out as a humorous campaign, altering the slogan to 'nothing is perfect'. Simon's rude reaction finally gives Sara the courage to stand up for herself as she does way more then her job description entails and complain he's so often unavailable, with amazing results: she gets apologies and even a mandate to handle his commercial division's paperwork.

Episode 27

Episode #1.27

Sara is proud to get Simon's commercial division's financial operations mandate. Alexander believes this only proves Simon is desperate the audit will bring him down, and complains to Leon, who asks Helen to reconcile the heirs. Simon shows Sara fine figures when Michèle Devos makes her perfume firm's offer, she's secretly jealous he has another flirt; Arne warns Sara she's probably being set up as stooge when the number dodging leads to a lawsuit. Thomas' mother Ellen De Graeve must choose: keep hid dad Patrick De Graeve (she made the kid believe he is dead) at arms-length even now he's back in Antwerp or demand 'delayed child support', and makes a restaurant date- only now Patrick is told to be a father, she still refuses any details or contact, so no doe. Alexander is furious his 'friend' auditor Daniel Debuck found no fibs in Sara's numbers and refuses to pretend.

Episode 28

Episode #1.28

Simon chews Sara out for spilling coffee, then tells the board he won't tolerate further scheming against his authority. Dad Hans continues the house painting, Sara brings Chinese. Simon is down after a row with his fiancée and gets Sara for a pep-talk in a restaurant, as his personal confident, but says he's sure she ain't in love with him, then rushes out leaving her stranded with the bill and without transport. Simon's parents plan a drink on Présence before they depart for Ivory Coast.

Episode 29

Episode #1.29

Simon demands Lieven's help to get cheaper fabrics from textile baron Felix Van Uytsel, then misses his parents' going away party. Hans manages to make up with his colleague so he'll get lifts again. Thomas saves Annie's bacon when she forgot to order copying paper; he doesn't know it, but the stock clerk in the shop is his dad Patrick De Graeve, Annie who recognizes him tells Ellen. Simon gives Sara homework while he will be on business trip to Milan, but first invites her along to Felix' grand evening party.

Episode 30

Episode #1.30

Simon and Lieven are off to Milan, Sara is named the CEO's representative. She shows Felix's fabrics to designer Marnix, who is immediately convinced, but calls the prices excessive; Felix wines and dines her and throws in a fancy watch, to Britt's utter shouted fury. Thomas meets his dad Patrick (still ignoring each-others identity), who works in the storage of the shop where he'll regularly pick up paper for Présence, and is naturally drawn to him. Alexander has Brit ask other fabrics quotes. Simon suspects Felix's 30% rebate is at the expense of the quality...

Episode 31

Episode #1.31

After Felix told her the rebate is based on partial substitution with polyester, Sara agrees to consider Alexander's alternative fabrics offers, but designer Marnix says he'll strike till Felix' good stuff is ordered. Britt keeps the expensive pen Felix sends to help Sara decide, and Alexander calls it bribery. Now the plant nursery is doing badly, dad Hans is at risk of firing, the pink slip follows in the mail. Daniel thanks Alexander for convincing his boss to promote him.

Episode 32

Episode #1.32

Marnix uses cute runner Thomas as male fitting model. Felix and Sara are pleased to have signed the fabrics contract at a celebratory lunch, after talking to Arne she realizes his gifts smell after bribing- especially when she finds 50,000 Euros on her bank account, but intends to keep it now dad Hans is fired and his car was wrecked. Alexander shows Marnix the torn-up contract copy with Felix's impossibly low price, he reminds Sara he expects the best quality. Thomas takes Patrick's advice about caring courting, realizing he never took as much to a man old enough to be his father. Alexander asks Daniel to tape a phone conversation with Sara to prove bribery, so he pretends to be Felix's secretary and waves her offer to refund the money.

Episode 33

Episode #1.33

Thomas enjoys Ann's company, but is utterly sick of shopping, he rather joins Patrick in Arne's pub. Alexander is happy with Daniel's recording to bring Sara down for bribery, and her boss Simon, who just returned from Milan. When Sara offers her dad Felix' money and explains it's dirty, he insists she returns it at once. Simon says she should wait till he has considered the matter, then tells Lieven it could serve him to start a sports firm, all the risks remaining with Sara. Hearing Britt brags she'll get Sara's job after an axing, Simon orders Lieven to stay her boyfriend as his spy.

Episode 34

Episode #1.34

Britt's hope the tape will be Sara's end is frustrated, when Alexander plays it Simon's dismisses it, as Sara hoped, remarking it was cut. Dad Hans finds job-hunting hard, Sara suggests an interim agency. Simon tells Lieven he wants to use the foreign front firm he plans to found with Sara's money from Felix to cheat on VAT (sales tax), lets her do all the work but gives no details, only a 25% raise; Alexander gets wind of it but Britt can't get him details. Thomas and Ann exchange secrets. Simon lunches with reporter Brenda.

Episode 35

Episode #1.35

Despite Arne's warning it smells like a dodgy front company, Sara intends to execute Simon's orders with the 5,000 Euro. Ann is disappointed Thomas's shared secret is his musical soft spot for old-fashioned singer Paul Anka, while she confessed she moonlights as nude model in art school, which he even wants her to give up, even before she admits she also draws, even male nudes. Helena nearly finds out about Simon and Brenda, but remains suspicious. Just then Michèle stops by, next Brenda. Sara was told to prevent designer Marnix discovering the lesser fabrics quality, but Britt had them delivered to him, and feel unacceptably inferior to his expert touch, cause for fury.

Episode 36

Episode #1.36

Having shared in Simon's anger after Britt blew the secret fabrics-substitution, Sara intends to leave Présence completely as her beloved CEO is unreasonable, his plea and promise no longer to use her for private matters convince her. When Leon calls from Ivory Coast, Marnix reassures him there is no serious problem, then gets Simon to bet: if the new collection sells less then last year's, they'll go to his gay bar the Pink Panther as drag queens. Thomas and Sara make practical preparations for the fashion show, but the abandoned factory site Marnix chose was just declared unsafe: no show allowed, by fire department order. Simon confides in Lieven he's loosing confidence, and tells Michèle he's now prepared to go for the budget perfume plan. Thomas joins Ann's art academy as drawing student, only to see for himself she kisses the studly male model on the lips before he goes bare-arse for the class. Simon gets a fax: scorned Brenda is writing an article on his fabrics fraud.

Episode 37

Episode #1.37

Simon calls Lieven to a bar at night, getting desperate as the business seems to slip between his fingers. Fashion reporter Brenda Vermeulen's article is published; Simon promises revenge and blames Marnix, who tells Thomas and Ann it's time to look for another employer. Ingrate Simon pays no attention to Sara's announcement the new firm is ready. Alexander announces even before Brenda's scandal the firm's accounts are nearing bankruptcy under Simon. Sara suggests to Simon to risk Felix's 50,000 Euro speculating on the stock market, Arne promises to help her- it proves frantic nightly work, but it pays off: dad Hans thinks Présence has money to burn, the fivefold winnings suffice for loan to keep the fashion firm afloat, she dreams of gratitude extending to love.

Episode 38

Episode #1.38

Thomas really can't stomach Ann is drawing and even kissed hunky nude model Sven, gay Marnix' joking suggestion to pose himself gets a vicious reaction too, only Patrick understands him and convinces him to prove he's not excessively jealous. Sara's dad Hans is getting desperate for job prospects. Marnix guesses right Simon has new resources when he hears the fashion show and his quality fabrics will go trough, Alexander smells a rat. Britt hopes to be taken along to Turkey but Lieven says it's a working trip, she points out she would have to obey Alexander as acting CEO, Simon won't hear about it and sticks Lieven with the pub bill, again.

Episode 39

Episode #1.39

Simon takes Sara out lunching, Britt makes Lieven treat her. When Brenda calls, Simon rushes back to his office to meet her, but refuses to take her to Turkey- until she promises positive exclusive photo-shoot coverage. Thomas refuses to tell his ever nosy mother anything anymore, then goes to Arne's pub Chocolat talking with Patrick, ma sees them here, tipped off by Lut, who insists it's time to tell Thomas the truth. Sara convinces Simon her firm must give Présence a loan now, in case Alexander, who insists to stay behind during the shoot, arranges a thorough audit, but he gets Leon on video-link from Ivory Coast.

Episode 40

Episode #1.40

Thomas' terrible mood over Ann's nude model drawing and friendship with that very stud, Sven, makes mother Ellen think again whether to tell him Patrick is his dad, but the couple makes up. Leon tells Simon either he or Alexander must hold the fort in Antwerp during the Turkish photo-shoot. Simon tells Sara her firm is to be only a loan vehicle, without any actual activities, till Lieven, their only other confident, confirms the tax office would get suspicious: she gets a free hand, on her own responsibility. She's disappointed she must stay home watching Alexander, who already mistrusts the delivery of a safe for her office.

Episode 41

Episode #1.41

Sara tries to convince herself Simon's trust outweighs missing out on Turkey, a prize the other girls go to great lengths for, Britt even throwing herself at the travel agent for an extra ticket. Now Thomas meets nude model Sven, a cop's son, they hit on, even go out together, but suddenly Ann objects. Ambitious Marnix and virtually broke CEO Simon agree on two models for the,photo-shoot, Marnix' choice, and best quality fabrics, paid for by another loan from Sara's front company.

Episode 42

Episode #1.42

In order to keep Alexander in check during Simon's absence, Lieven must forgo the Turkey trip. Sven tells Ann his feelings for her are deeper then superficial friendship.

Episode 43

Episode #1.43

Arne reassures Sara getting the top model Viviane Verminne, which Marnix absolutely wants, can't be too hard. Sven tells Ann he saw in his cop ma's computer Thomas has a criminal record, he's furious when she blames him for not telling her, even invites Sven for a drink instead of Thomas, whom she tells she lost her trust in him. Britt accidentally knocked Sara a bloody nose and deliberately gets chewing gum in her hair, jealous to learn Sara is to negotiate with the modeling agency, where she gets a facial make-over from ex-model Mrs. Bossiers, but is told Viviane is already under contract with a good client, Lescaut. Simon concludes the model needs to be persuaded with all his own charms.

Episode 44

Episode #1.44

Top model Viviane Verminne's present employer accepted a bid from Sara to let her off there for three days, but Simon didn't now yet, tried to charm her, a former flame, and is told that blows it anyway; Sara lies to take the blame. Thomas is desperate now Ann no longer trusts him, blows off at Marnix, at Arne where he gets thrown out as a drunk and at Patrick; only the last -his dad, neither knows yet- gets him to tell in tears, they find to be both Paul Aka fans. Sven is tired of Ann's endless ranting about Thomas. Alexander is furious Simon leaves him behind but without any interim competence, and is eager to get the presumably bad quarterly results, which Simon expects Sara to keep off by working at Britt's desk so long. Lut is disappointed Hans already has a dinner invitation from Martine; she tries to get Ann back to Thomas.

Episode 45

Episode #1.45

Sara taking Britt's front desk is reason for havoc but goes trough now the Turkey-party leaves Présence headquarters, including Britt, who wasn't invited but scammed a ticket, and even invites herself to Simon's hotel room. In Antwerp only Lieven still stands by Sara, who resists Alexander's first verbal assault; Arne is her witness for the notary's deed to found 'her' firm. Marnix couldn't choose two models, but finally follows Thomas's suggestions, whose Paul Anka music strikes Lut. When Sven refuses to be told off Ann by Thomas, the desperate lover gets violent. Hans still enjoys treats from both his admirers...

Episode 46

Episode #1.46

Simon dines and wines his fiancée romantically on the pier, their only evening without Marnix' Présence photo-shoot crew, who arrive the next morning, even photographer Bo is under his tyrannical orders, but complains to Simon. Sara and Arne are proud to have founded her firm, baptized Ecomoda, Alexander catches them putting the papers in a company safe. Ann tells Lut Sven wasn't an interesting conversationalist in Arne's pub. Hans prefers Lut's home cooking-invitation to Martine's fancy restaurant date. The accountant accepts Alexander's orders to deliver the quarterly figures to him, highest ranking present director, before Sara, who only gets confirmation of Simon's orders to beat him at it, no help or suggestion, still she fantasizes about sharing the sky on a beach with him.

Episode 47

Episode #1.47

Britt asks Brenda to suggest a compromise for Marnix and photographer Bob's dispute whether to shoot the models out or in the water; her idea to do it on a yacht is a hit, she's promised a private thank-you from Simon, for which Britt provides the excuse: the start of a cycle of lies and deception... Ann stays late in the office so Lut can go cook for Hans, and thus overhears Thomas tell 'to Lut' how he loves and misses her and regrets his fight with nude art model Sven, whose silence about it both admire; the lovebirds finally make up. After wining in Arne's pub, Sara goes after the quarterly numbers at the source: the accountant, Daniel Debuck, whose orders from his mate Alexander as financial director are overturned by CEO Simon's over the phone, she even hijacks Alexander's copy altogether. After hearing Sara ignore Alexander, adding her power is greater then he realizes, Lieven warns Simon Sara can be very dangerous for them.

Episode 48

Episode #1.48

Sara phones to Simon the quarterly figures are even worse then expected: 18% down. Thomas and Ann tell each-other between kisses they're both virgins. Lieven gets Lut to redecorate Sara's broom closet office as a surprise, she accepts if Thomas, Ann and Hans may help; to get her out Lieven gives her a ticket first class to bring Simon the full report in Turkey. While the photo-shoot goes great, gay Marnix melts burning with desire for a hot Turkish stud, Simon has a quickie on the yacht with a model, yet escapes getting found out.

Episode 49

Episode #1.49

Thomas takes Patrick's advice in Arne's pub: the main thing about a first time is to take one's time, then refuses categorically to tell his far too nosy ma anything about a girl-friend. In Turkey, where the shoot goes well, Sara has arrived despite Marnix's perfectionism angering photographer Bob, according to Lieven's plan but to Simon's anger. Meanwhile the renovation of Sara's office progresses well, even gets her a fine city view, but Alexander orders her safe moved to his office and calls his friend, accountant Daniel, who puts him in contact with ex-con Koen Meuris, to open the safe. Thomas sneaked off for a quickie with Ann, but his hot rod couldn't follow Patrick's wise advice, not even till the condom is properly affixed.

Episode 50

Episode #1.50

Thomas and Ann volunteer to clean the brushes so they can fool around in Sara's office. Thomas pays Koen 5,000 Euro to get the documents out of Sara's safe. In Turkey, drunk and cranky Simon shouts at Sara to leave him in peace, she falls from the yacht and experiences him diving after her as romantic; he got nightmares, they meet sleepless on the beach, but he's off fast. Back home, she is kept out of her office long enough and hands Alexander the quarterly figures before the safe is cracked.

Episode 51

Episode #1.51

Sara is delighted with her now bright office, to Britt's furious envy, only Alexander still seems a valid ally for her. Thomas enjoys fooling around enough to suggest living together, An fears their low budget would make that a recipe for frequent fights. Simon promises Felix cash payment for a 20% rebate, Lieven fears another Ecomoda-loan to pay for it gives Sara even more power. After Britt's gazes at her safe after it is moved back into her office, Sara moves the papers to Arne's. Offended by an urge to speed up his new collection, Marnix takes a day off to visit Paris. Mere thank you-chocolates from Simon delight Sara enough to search a better present for him in her super-scarce spare time: a huge office pot plant.

Episode 52

Episode #1.52

Simon refuses Sara's thank you-office plant, scorned Sara wants moral revenge by building up Ecomoda, but can't spend enough time on it, so she hires Arne to do most of the work. Marnix' absence inspires the lovebirds further frolicking in his sanctuary. Simon is delighted to hear Ecomoda is starting to trade in fabrics, so Présence can easily absorb it later, Lieven finds growth even more scary. Alexander pays Koen his half up-front the burglary, which he specifies in detail, and lets him in. Ellen blames An for son Thomas's intention to move out.

Episode 53

Episode #1.53

Sara and Arne -who ignores Alexander's sneer to wait for her outside- hope to maximize Ecomoda's profit on fabrics by wholesale. Hans and Lut are amazed how clumsy Sara is in the kitchen; his colleague is also fired. Thomas and Ann enjoy another private evening in absent Marnix's domain, night watcher George nearly catches them. Lieven warns Simon Britt may be on to Ecomoda. Koen sneaks past George, beats the safe but finds only cash, not the documents Alexander hired him for, Thomas hears something while going to the johns.

Episode 54

Episode #1.54

Nightguard George finds innocent Thomas standing at the emptied safe, a body-search shows only condoms; Simon decides no police and believes in his innocence, but he feels shunned and mistrusted, even by Ann, as he tells Patrick. Simon is relieved the papers were not in the safe, but without the money he must cancel Felix' cash contract, Marnix says without his fabrics only five pieces per shop may be sold, which means he wins the drag queen bet. Sara has an idea: buy alternative fabrics from Ecomoda. Koen breaks off all contact with Alexander.

Episode 55

Episode #1.55

After the safe robbery, Alexander is certain Simon dares not tell the police because he and Sara keep secrets for the board. Marnix can only be persuaded to help Sara select Ecomoda's new fabric suppliers by keeping his drag queen promise, prepared painfully professionally. Arne takes charge to rush the search for fabric samples. Hans learns sacked ex-colleague Martine is disappointed in her husband. Lieven reminds Britt he's still not even considering a steady relationship. Sara warns Ann she must stand by her despairing boy-friend Thomas.

Episode 56

Episode #1.56

Simon barely makes an appearance as drag queen Lulu in Marnix' gay club, finds his car blocked and orders the 'queers' so roughly to clear it that he is thrown out, so he calls Sara, at home, who gets him out; to his fury the story spreads the next morning. Thomas is furious to overhear at Arne's pub his ma and lover Ann still can't help doubting his innocence, then calls drunk to Patrick, who puts him up for the night. Alexander asks Daniel to contact Koen again. Britt warns Simon for Helena's suspicious nature. Lieven suggests Simon can use Britt's implicit overture instead to spy on Alexander.

Episode 57

Episode #1.57

Thomas and Ann make up and go pick up Simon's Jaguar at the gay club Pink Panther, but Alexander receives the police, which reports the company car got fined for speeding and careless driving (by Thomas). Sara is in tears and takes a few days off; Lieven insists Simon must go make up at her place; instead he goes to Britt's, but leaves when she flirts physically. Daniel has fixed Alexander's appointment with burglar Koen, who reports the safe contained only cash, no papers, but a tape recording allows Alexander to force him to remain on call for a next job. Finding Sara and Arne crashed on her bed after slaving on Ecomoda research, Hans and Lut think they're a romantic item.

Episode 58

Episode #1.58

Alexander calls a staff-board meeting with Simon's parents, the CEO is ordered to make a full report on the state of the firm, which he claims will shift for the better soon thanks to the new perfume line. Lieven pushes Simon to go make up with Sara at her home, but she is enjoying working for Ecomoda, now at Arne's pub, Hans makes Simon wait for her return outside. Burglar Koen calls Alexander to meet the next day. Lut enjoys seeing lovebirds Thomas and Ann and tells them about Arne and Sara. Thomas tells his ma he took a second job as night guard to pay for the Jaguar fines, an excuse for a hotel night with Ann. Alexander hears Felix demands payment of the canceled fabrics order according to contract, and considers legal action. Sara and Simon collaborate the whole night on his report, she thinks he changed for the better.

Episode 59

Episode #1.59

Thomas has his hot hotel night with Ann, but is furious to be called a lier by his meddling ma who guessed after asking Ann's ma her whereabouts, Lut suggests Elle should be glad her son chose such a nice girl. Simon asks rep Michèle Devos to persuade Alexander to budget the perfume line, he won't even read her simulated numbers. Marnix tells Sara he dreams of a Barnum fashion show, she convinces him to save his grand ideas for the next, unlimited collection. Sara suggests Ecomoda may get a loan the bank refuses Présence, Lieven gets even more suspicious. Alexander refuses to sell his tape recording of Koen's burglary confession for cash from the safe, only the documents interest him.

Episode 60

Episode #1.60

Lieven can't share Simon and Sara's confidence that another Ecomoda loan for the perfume line would permit Simon to present to the board an acceptable report and warns him that Sara is getting too rich, while Alexander wonders where the funds come from. Hans and Lut plan a date but jealous Martine makes him cancel, wining her husband Frans mentioned a divorce. Ann insists to present Thomas to her parents, but Marnix has too much urgent work for him, preparing the fashion show in another desolate factory. Arne has found another paying customer for Ecomoda but isn't prepared to see all the profits drained to Présence. Thomas refuses to tell Koen anything about Alexander and seems sad when Sven drops by Ann in the pub.

Episode 61

Episode #1.61

Marnix orders Thomas to keep looking for a perfect fashion show location, Koen approaches Thomas in vain, again. Simon is not amused to learn Sara chose Arne, not Lieven, to co-sign Ecomoda's statutes, tries to find out more about him while taking Lieven's advice to stay in Sara's good books by giving her flowers, she naively thinks 'her' Simon fears Arne as a romantic rival 'for her'. Jealous secretary Britt hits rock-bottom now her slander is found out, Lieven cheers her up.

Episode 62

Episode #1.62

Thomas is not amused when Marnix says the perfect location won't be used after all, yet enjoys preparations with Ann. Lut easily accepts a make-up date with Hans, this time a restaurant. Arne objects to Ecomoda running loan-risks merely for Présence's, well Simon's, convenience; Sara is furious to find he speculated on stocks behind her back, despite a 13,000 Euro profits, and tells Simon, who now fears the pair may be a threat like Lieven thinks, who urges Simon to give Sara a bracelet, while Helena stupidly demands Sara should be fired, just for insisting on the normal signature for a petty cash advance, out of the question for Simon.

Episode 63

Episode #1.63

Hans and Lut try and enjoy sushi, next fries, enough for a longer date the next day. Thomas tells his ma he'll spend the night with Ann, no objections to their relief; at night he steals a nude sketch by Sven, later puts it back in the office but is caught and taunted by Alexander, then knocks him over. Sara makes Arne swear not to speculate again on his own, and promises him entry to the fashion show. Michèle brings the Présence perfume but refuses to present it at the fashion show, so he plans Helena in the showstopper, Brenda gets the exclusive.

Episode 64

Episode #1.64

Hans gives Lut a house-key and greatly enjoy her home-baked cakes. Marnix's fashion show goes well: Helena triumphs presenting the perfume carried by bare-chested hunks, only Lieven worries Arne may have a dangerous grip on Sara. Alas Felix's cheap fabrics are so bad the T-shirts easily rip to pieces, a commercial disaster, not even insured, Felix still demands payment. Alexander refuses to return Ann's nude drawing to Thomas. Sara thanks Simon for the bracelet and offers Ecomoda can buy the junk cloths, Arne thinks ripped could become a new trend, as in jeans.

Episode 65

Episode #1.65

Britt gets Helena's permission to date her rich-born first love, union rep Steven, and refuses Lieven's flowers and offer to go out. Ex-con Koen first beats up Thomas and steals his neck-lace, then is caught breaking in at Alexander's and knocks him on the head worse then intended. Arne's ripped-up T-shirt style actually sells. After Lieven's latest insisting that Arne may become Sara's lover, Simon asks her along to the golf club, but then hears Alexander is in hospital...

Episode 66

Episode #1.66

Alexander's visiting colleagues plus union rep Steven must wait for medical news; Simon informs his parents, who decide to cut their African voyage short. Simon tells Lieven he worries what was stolen from his safe, two weeks after Sara's, and the written 10% sales increase- bet he's likely to lose. Thomas confesses to Ann that it's Koen who stole his necklace, a birthday gift from his ma; Ann manages to find a nearly identical replacement, while Marnix suggests to pretend having lost the ugly thing. Lut is practically pressed into meeting her rival for Hans. Alexander tells the police about only one incident, with Thomas' revenge-threat about Ann's nude drawing.

Episode 67

Episode #1.67

Seeing the ripped T-shirts sell well only convinces Lieven more that Simon must prevent Arne becoming Sara's partner, so he gives her a golf club membership card 'from Simon'; they speculate they can get out of Simon's bet if Alexander's contract copy was stolen. Britt enjoys her date with rich union rep Steven. Alexander discharges himself from hospital, regardless of his concussion; his malicious 'tip' set the police on Thomas's trace, the boy's ma Ellen worries his past record -because of Koen- is bound to look bad, an accidental witness describes someone fitting his description hung around; Ellen is Thomas's alibi but shares secret doubts with Ann, who learns the full truth from her lover. Alexander hisses he'll see Thomas hang; feeling beleaguered the kid wants to leave Présence, Ann reacts selfishly. Simon takes Lieven's cue to ask for Ecomoda's books, Sara agrees but says Arne does the accounting, to their amazement.

Episode 68

Episode #1.68

Now Ann won't even answer if she trusts him enough to remain an item, Thomas begs Marnix to get him fired so he can go on the dole; he kindly intervenes with Lieven, who even accepts to make it immediate if Marnix pretends to be the problem; ma Ellen asks Thomas to reconsider as it only makes him look more suspect, Marnix warns there is no way back, but Thomas persists. While Hans generously tells boss Sjarel to keep Martine on rather then him if it comes to firing, she is actually breaking in at his home. Simon is worried Arne has such a big say in Ecomoda and how large and profitable that firm already got, as he tells Lieven who suggests to spoil her; Simon offers to take Sara to the golf club for her first lesson and drinks, literally a dream for her, only Simon can't resist his 'old' flirt Carine...

Episode 69

Episode #1.69

When Sara catches up with Simon, his other 'golf pupil' Karine on her knees had just undressed him down to his undershorts. Alexander is less confident then Britt their row in the office may undermine their collaboration, so he asks Sara to become his personal assistant, she accepts. Ellen tells Lut and Ann that Thomas is arranging to get fired, Ann feels guilty. Marnix finishes the charade with a gentle goodbye-embrace, Sara fails to talk Thomas over, sadness all around. Lieven realizes Sara's excessive reaction indicates she loves Simon, so reciprocating -at least a kiss- should convince her to stay on...

Episode 70

Episode #1.70

Britt gets a dinner date with Steven. Lieven coaches Simon to prepare for his golf club dinner with Sara, even change clothes and kiss; his fiancée's surprise dinner reservation is canceled. At septic Arne's pub a palm-reader tells Sara she'll find love in the office, but no marriage, only hardship. Simon tells Alexander Sara's transfer is no done deal yet, but drinks a bit too much and is late, Arne advises her to bail out, in vain, she even promises to stay on and lets him off their date, Lieven insists a kiss is necessary to counter Arne, but Simon takes off with Brenda again.

Episode 71

Episode #1.71

Drunk as a skunk, incorrigible flirt Simon and difficult reporter Brenda Vermeulen strip in his office, Sara is no valid alibi, Lieven must lie for him while insisting that doesn't solve the Arne risk, but blurts out they saw Alexander, who later seems not to be believed reporting he saw Simon kiss Brenda in a pub. Steven De Sutter tells Britt that Helena was his first love, at college. In the morning, Sara finds lingerie in Simon's office and announces she remains with Simon, to Britt's despair. Lieven gets Simon by a dare to promise he'll kiss Sara to prove not to be 'disgusted by her ugliness'...

Episode 72

Episode #1.72

Sara can't make head or tail of Simon coming onto her, up to a drunk kiss, and retreating, his engagement party invitation shatters her romantic dreams again. Lieven warns again it's getting very touchy, but was overheard in the johns by Alexander. Ann meets lover Thomas again and suggests him to look for a job with Patrick. Britt still ignores her new flame Steven is married, albeit unhappily. Pressed by Lieven to give her a sober kiss, Simon asks Sara out again.

Episode 73

Episode #1.73

Simon asks Sara out once more, again rather drunk; she is confused enough to accept first, then slaps him after a second insincere kiss. They make up the next morning. Finding out Steven is married unhappily doesn't deter Britt in the least, but there is more to it. Thomas visits the Présence staff to tell them Patrick is helping him to get a new job in the same stationery firm, Marnix insists Lieven must get him another runner urgently, while Ann and even Sara help out with Margot's return and birthday reception. Alexander has a dark plan...

Episode 74

Episode #1.74

Alexander has found a better way to get academically brilliant, even thesis-published Sara out of his way: he convinces his banker Pierre Cools she is overqualified for her Présence post, indeed he offers her a board position, with doubled salary; still she rather tests Simon for a significant raise. Arne proudly announces he has another client for Ecomoda, she won't even confide in him, he demands Simon does something about her unhappiness. At second thought recently downsized Hans is interested when Sara suggests he could postulate as runner replacing Thomas, but Lieven knows his legally seniority-linked salary would be too high. Thomas's hope for a job with Patrick is already torpedoed. Sven and Ann plan to take Thomas parachute jumping.

Episode 75

Episode #1.75

Sara imagines Simon would miss her as much and personally as she him, and turns down the bank's dream job, even with a firm car thrown in. Yet she refuses another kiss from Simon, and immediately doubts both her choices, while Lieven and Simon think she's in love with Arne; Alexander guesses right she must in love with Simon. Felix has started legal steps to demand payment for his sub-standard fabrics. Father Leon questions Simon about the firm. Ann and Sven have a surprise for Thomas: planning his first glide flight. Sara picks a Présence outfit, disappointingly conservative, even plain according to its own designer Marnix, but the point is Simon notices, unlike Arne.

Episode 76

Episode #1.76

Thomas feels in heaven already when he finds out Sven and Ann are treating him to his first-ever parachute-jump, even if she hesitates to join him, strapped to instructors, once he does she is at least as excited. Leon is easily tired, and wants to give Simon's engagement party a miss. Lieven advises against asking Sara there, rather send her on a mission abroad, but Simon hits right-on by asking her 'as a friend', a ploy which doesn't impress Arne. Britt promises Alexander to prove Simon is unreliable, showing Sara a fake hickey she supposedly got from a flirting Simon, enough to burst Sara's bubble already. The police found a neck-lace near Alexander's place, which he identifies as probably Thomas's.

Episode 77

Episode #1.77

The police makes Ellen identify her son Thomas's neck-lace, found near Alexander's place, in fact stolen by Koen. This news cuts short Thomas's fun frolicking in bed with Ann, still high from the parachute jump. He won't take ma's advice to turn himself in, but promises to do so when Ann concurs, yet disappears. Sara feels tricked after Britt's hockey)lie, and resolves to reduce Simon to a professional level, but doesn't explain to him. Marnix nags to Lieven about the need to replace Thomas as runner, Hans gets the temp job starting immediately, initially welcomed till Marnix realizes he'll have to show and teach him everything. Présence prepares a grand engagement party for CEO Simon, but his father Leon collapses while toasting: his weak hart.

Episode 78

Episode #1.78

Simon's father Leon is in hospital, but with good prospects for total recovery, yet it is a serious heart warning; Simon's engagement party is not rescheduled till further notice, Sara takes over his work so he can join Leon in hospital. Bailed-out Sara hears it only now, but also that Britt's hickey is from Steven, not Simon. Hans is as unhappy with Marnix as boss as vice-versa, but Marnix actually demands from Lieven his replacement, fast. Ellen is in in tears about Thomas' going underground. Thomas tells Patrick he fears nobody else believes him, not even Ann, who actually tells the police his true version Koen stole the neck-lace, but admits some doubt. Alexander won't agree to Simon's plan to delay the board meeting, the Felix problem is urgent and ideal to verify Présence's financial debacle.

Episode 79

Episode #1.79

Thomas visits Ann but runs again, still not convinced she really trusts him, Patrick reproaches her wavering support. Simon accepts to pay Felix, but sue him to ask the money back; Arne asks Simon what the collateral for Ecomoda is still worth. Lieven tells Hans he looses the job as Marnix's runner, doesn't even get a chance to offer Hans another job, but after Lut makes him reconsider and Lieven allows him, gratefully becomes handyman. Sara accepts Simon's dining invitation 'now we have a relationship', Britt refuses Lieven's now she aims for Steven. An is desperate when Thomas says he'll go aboard, as volunteer, unless she trusts him 100%, she still can't. At diner Sara tells Simon Arne's won't go for another loan, both consider instead to scare Felix with his own dodgy record.

Episode 80

Episode #1.80

Hans assures Lut he never had serious feelings for anyone since Sara's mother died, certainly no colleagues; Martine feeds her a story about his hair being a turn-off, Lut's questions only make him doubt if she has a hair frustration. Sara is unable to eat lobster properly, Simon gives her shares as collateral for Ecomoda-loans, thanks to Arne, whom she first practically scorns, but starts to realize he's right, it is far more their firm then Simon's. Lieven is worried, and doubts if Felix can be made to withdraw his payment lawsuit by turning the tax service on him, as Alexander must ask his friend Daniel to do Présence this new favor; they both accept but grudgingly. Thomas drops by, only to tell his mother he's leaving the country -to Bukarest- till his innocence is proven. Lieven show Simon a trick to watch a pretty girl's photo hidden in a hand while kissing an ogre like Sara, but it's not accepted.

Episode 81

Episode #1.81

Lut tells Ellen her only doubt about Hans is if he keeps a wig silent, she gets drag-queen Marnix to use his expert eye: it's real. Simon and Sara tell each-other they have deep feelings, she feels queen of the world except for his spoiled fiancée, so she buys new cloths; the girls wonder who would be her rich boy-friend. After more coaching from Lieven to keep Sara close but not too, a single red rose from Simon moves her to tears, and a declaration of (hopeless?) love in his arms.

Episode 82

Episode #1.82

Sara wrestles with the illusion Simon is in true love with her and her honorable duty to respect his engagement, but sees another model offering romantic means to 'earn' a models casting selection, however he sends Kim to Lieven, who gives him an exposition alibi for his date with Sara. Leon is better and dead-eager to get home again and to be informed about the situation at Présence. Alexander won't even thank 'ingrate' Daniel after the tax inspection intimidation they planned worked to make Felix call off his bailiffs, asks Simon for his own reward and is ostentatiously sure to win their bet. Desperate Thomas doesn't call, Ann dates Sven. Britt badmouths Steven's wife Sylvie before and during a home-cooked chicken dinner with him.

Episode 83

Episode #1.83

At Leon's hospital bed, Alexander takes full credit for solving the Felix situation and suggests to attack a new market, France, together. At Simon's alibi photo expo, he and Lieven bump into Michèle, who has a soap line proposal for him, artist Jurgen refuses entry to his ex 'without an invitation, no degenerated aristocrats', even has her thrown out. So Sara waits over a hour for Simon, then he confidentially admits at dinner his fiancée is more a business alliance then a personal one, she still runs when he doesn't want to be noticed as he usually dines there with his fiancée. Ann cries in Sven's arms about Thomas's silence, then dumps him 'forever' after a friendly kiss. Britt keeps preying for Steven's marital situation.

Episode 84

Episode #1.84

Simon has a hard time to handle his fiancée's suspicion about his night with Michèle, the firm's security officer George says he can't lie, he would get to obviously red in the face; instead they find Sara's poem by some Anna Corado neither knows. Simon rebukes Sara for her indiscreet letter, but charges her with compiling an inventory of possible take-over targets in France under Alexander's plan, while his parents would prefer him to work on the project as engagement bonding. Leon also tells him he is scheduled that evening for 'routine' bypass surgery. Britt goes tell Steven's wife Sylvie she's his mistress- and meets her lover, Herman, in bathrobe.

Episode 85

Episode #1.85

Britt tips off Steven's wife Sylvie's lover's wife hoping to break up the marriage. Just before his bypass surgery, father Leon stops Simon from starting Présence France in Paris, first nearby Lille. Simon's fiancée is too suspicious, neither is still sure an alliance is a good idea. Sara finally tells Simon off privately, secretly hoping he will stop her; both are miserable, Lieven insists the business risk is unacceptable, Simon should keep control over her at any cost, even carnal consummation. Arne asks Sara to handle an Anglophone customer, she refuses although his English is poorer.

Episode 86

Episode #1.86

Sara is devastated, takes a day of 'to work for Ecomoda', Lieven calls that proof Présence no longer comes first and worries about Arne's influence. Lut convinces Hans it's about time to tell Sara about them two. Margot presses Leon and even Alexander -who disagrees, hoping to become acting CEO- to help convince Simon to take his fiancée prospecting in France. Britt is obsessed with Steven. Marnix decides Ann is the only one left to look for locations in Thomas's place: streets with colorful house fronts this time. While scouting, Ann hears from Sven's mate Niels De Rovere that Sven just left on an Erasmus (EU exchange program) scholarship to Finland after she told him off, Niels helps with her search. Simon brings Sara back by daringly- appealing to her love for him.

Episode 87

Episode #1.87

When Koen and a cahoot bother Sara, Simon hits and chases the scum, she feels obliged and celebrates by buying an outfit which amuses only those he like ridiculing her. Steven is happy his wife Sylvie is ready for divorce after Britt's phone stunt, but refuses such a traitorous lover: she's dumped. Hans tells his girl-friend Lut that Martine is behaving 'strangely familiar'. Ellen sort of rebukes Ann for coming out of gloom now Thomas is gone, Marnix tells the sour winer to shut up and stop blaming him and hanging on, admits to Ann he shouldn't expect her to guess his desires as well as Thomas, and accepts Hans's suggestion to use Présence as fashion show location. Simon insists on trust, or the engagement is over...

Episode 88

Episode #1.88

Simon finds Sara miserable, embarrassed how badly her new outfit was received; his assurance it's not bad but he still prefers the original version hits the right note. Next Simon learns his 'trust or no engagement' ultimatum has worked, so he drops his demand to go alone on Northern French prospection trip and makes up, to Alexander's anger. Hans and Lut get used to calling themselves love-birds, like school-kids. Marnix presents Ann's idea to use Présence as location to Simon as his own. Alexander feels Léon would really be a loss, especially against Simon and his own formerly adoring kid sister. Ellen is in tears to have to write an ad for a replacement for her son Thomas as runner. Now Steven is a lost cause, Britt wants Lieven back, he refuses to go out that night. At Simon's request, Sara asks startled, yet not unwilling Arne to play her lover in order to hide 'her relationship with Simon'.

Episode 89

Episode #1.89

Sara finds Hans and Lut kissing at home, is first startled and somewhat shocked, soon realizes they are right together. Marnix does the usual effective threatening to get not the 'silly' photographer from the Turkey trip for his fashion show in Présence but Jurgen, Helena's ex. Marnix planned the country's two beauty champions, but Miss Belgium spills her guts in the toilet, so Britt is asked to model instead, refuses to be second choice- till Simon offers full pay. Arne reluctantly plays Sara's beau, but falls at first sight for Britt, regardless of everybody's warnings against the bitch, who however seems more interested in flirting with accountant Daniel.

Episode 90

Episode #1.90

Simon's engagement seems back on track, especially in the sack, after the happy show even her scorned ex Jurgen is back in her grace. Simon's parents insist he should make Alexander deputy CEO, in charge in his absence. Hans and Lut enjoy their short coast trip, he's impressed by her parents's weekend house and insists it's easy for handymen like them to turn it into a dream residence. Sven's mate Niels convinces Ann to share a light lunch in Arne's pub and secretly goes trough her things while she's in the lavatory. Britt and Daniel really get closer; Arne also approaches her by phone Ecomoda's 'general manager', as such insisting it's about time Présence starts honoring some of its debts, Simon says he doesn't have the money, so Ecomoda needs a bank-load to pay its own suppliers. .

Episode 91

Episode #1.91

Simon's resistance against Alexander as acting CEO in his absence is subdued again by his own parents. Sara is out of the running with influenza. Marnix naturally ignores Anne's petty advice to ignore Sven's friend Niels De Rovere's solicitation as runner just for not telling her he considered postulating, he actually gets the job after clever flattery. Hans and Lut finally express mutual love. Britt gets Daniel to tell Alexander was behind cracking Sara's safe and demands promotion to his personal assistant.

Episode 92

Episode #1.92

Sara's influenza kept her sick in bed, adoring how Simon personally takes care of her till dad Hans returns with Lut from the sea. Alas Sara returns to Présence too soon and immediately infects Simon, who is now pressed by his parents to hand over management to Alexander, who feels both black-mailed by and attracted to vamp Britt, who has meanwhile besotted Arne too...

Episode 93

Episode #1.93

It's Simon's turn to be sick in bed, meanwhile Jurgen makes the private photo-shoot he promised his own ex, Simon's fiancée, as a 'saucy' surprise, stripping to the last stitch. Arne makes an ass of himself turning up at Britt's desk in Présence as Ecomoda's general manager, supposedly with an important appointment he can't even remember, next asks Ann -who once more wines she feels used, now for Sara's sake- to pretend on the phone to be his secretary and plans a birthday celebration for Sara in his pub, like her dad and Lut at home. Alexander pays Britt's silence with the requested promotion, provided she gets him an appointment with Daniel, who assures him to have told nobody else about the safe, yet phones Daniel's superior to get him fired from the job Alexander once got him to. Marnix tells Ann he's fairly happy with Niels, yet both miss Thomas.

Episode 94

Episode #1.94

Now Simon is sick, Alexander orders Sara to hand him all Présence data, fast. At Lieven's advice, she tries to make it complicated and stalls so she can make non-suspicious versions, but he watches like a hawk and demands all files on her office PC, 'personal' isn't even allowed; then Simon reappears, just in time to stop Alexander carrying it all off; they agree henceforward she will hide confidential stuff at home. When Brit hears Daniel is fired, she calls it 'her' bad luck her lover is no longer financially attractive; she tries to get the accountant hired by Lieven, but neither he nor Alexander would even consider him, so the gold-digger dates dead-eager Arne after all, alas only to ask for an accounting job. Niels can't appreciate Ann enjoys e-mailing with Sven's other mate, Mathias. Ellen tells Lieven she can't put Thomas out of her mind and recently told Patrick after 20 years he's the boy's dad.

Episode 95

Episode #1.95

Alexander can't stop Sara from evacuating Simon's 'confidential' data on the CEO's explicit orders. Simon gets his sick fiancée's blessing to go prospecting in northern France alone. Thomas's parents have drinks together and try to make up. Arne complains about the faults of Ecomoda's expensive accounting firm, and hires Daniel as part-time accountant, to please Britt, who brags to the Présence brass, so Lieven is alarmed. Sara is disappointed nobody seems to mind her birthday, then all the more pleased with surprise parties in the office and at home; Lieven convinces Simon he must top both by taking her along to Lille, now the big private party is incompatible- dad insists the job can wait a day. Ann dates Mathias at Arne's but finds him a childish bore, and sneers at 'jealous' Niels just for informing.

Episode 96

Episode #1.96

Nils and Ann -who now admits Mathias is a loud, immature drunk- agree to be friends for life, never lovers. Simon' parents grumble he doesn't get on with Alexander -once raised in their home with his sister, now Simon's fiancée with flu- and accepts to hop in at Sara's home birthday party despite his Lille prospecting trip. Arne plays Sara's lover. Britt and Daniel are quite tactile by now and discover Ecomoda' address is Sara's home, just when Simon arrives. When Simon agrees to take Sara along to France after all, she can't wait till after 'her' party, even imagines it to be 'like their honeymoon'.

Episode 97

Episode #1.97

The party goes on after birthday-girl Sara eagerly left with Simon. Patrick tells his ex Ellen he left her believing they could never be happy together. Sara is elated when Simon takes her to a posh French restaurant which he pays extra to stay open late, next to a karaoke bar where she shows surprising vocal talent. To Sara's secret relief, the hotel is fully booked, so they must take the double room she booked when his fiancée was still presumed to come along. Afer Simon tells her making love is impossible, she decides to sleep on the floor, but is told he does love her.

Episode 98

Episode #1.98

When Simon tops Sara's splendid birthday evening out by making love to her, she can barely believe her luck waking up naked in bed with him, while he feels guilty for (ab)using her relative innocence for business sake, yet she won't tell him if Arne undid her virginity. At home, dad Hans and Lut feel ready to cohabit, but where, and how will Sara take it? At Présence, Arne makes another clumsy move at Britt, promising to swing Daniel's solicitation, she openly realizes he's after her; Sara mandates Arne to pick a company car for Ecomoda. Nils and fascinated Ann meet Sara's nephew Filip, a paintings restoration artist, more her type then Mathias, Nils leaves semi-openly angry. Sara does another good job professionally, Simon insists they rush home before night, yet his fiancée's welcome is too suspicious again.

Episode 99

Episode #1.99

Now Arne has Sara's blessing to buy a company car for Ecomoda, he takes Britt along to choose a 'classy' one, she accepts to humor him as long as Daniel isn't engaged, so it's a pointlessly expensive French car, exorbitant to frugal Sara's taste. Simon nearly gets a fit when he thinks his hot night with Sara got out, she reassures him everybody thinks it was her and Arne. When Marnix asks him for the budget margin, Alexander insists to consult Simon's parents to convene the board; they inquire with the CEO how the preparations for his report advance, a worry for her and Sara how to keep their secrets hidden. Hans tells Sara he wants Lut to move in, she gets a warm welcome.

Episode 100

Episode #1.100

Daniel and Britt wonder if Ecomoda could be good for both of them. Anne is too thin to understand Nils's sneers at her sudden interest in Philip's subject philosophy. Marnix suggest a fancy wedding dress with real gems, affordable if shown in the fashion show, Simon hesitates for the 15,000 Euros price tag, so Marnix pleads the case in staff meeting, Britt suggests it's another ploy from Simon -whom Lieven told- to delay his wedding; when he seconds Alexander's motion to delay the decision till the budget is cleared out his fiancée says rather cancels the wedding, Alexander suggests to cancel the bet and split Présence instead. Hans is somewhat startled that Lut doesn't intend to move all her things over, rather keeps her apartment. Arne begs Nils till he agrees to play the barman during his meeting with Daniel.

Episode 101

Episode #1.101

Alexander's suggestion to split the firm -and thus cancel the bet- worries everyone, but Simon denies even to consider it, so Alexander tries to organize it unilaterally. Ann is pleased with a visit from Sara's cousin, philosophy student Filip, who looks down on her job etc., poor Nils is ignored- till she can't even think of something to philosophize about. Arne keeps flirting with shameless seductress Britt, who actually kisses with Daniel. Hans isn't angry but disappointed now Lut isn't completely committed yet, she reassures him enough. After consulting Lieven in the gym, Simon tells Sara he's only pretending temporarily to go trough with his wedding to avoid a disastrous business split.

Episode 102

Episode #1.102

Alexander tells Leon about his Delannoye-Van Wyck split plan, practically the end of Présence. Daniel tells Britt he knows Arne and Sara manage Ecomoda, but decide to stay silent rather then risk his new job. Lieven is startled Simon now kisses Sara without physical aversion. Lut moves in with Hans, they wrestle with minute housekeeping differences, her cooking is a hit. Simon mends his engagement and the firm by a wedding dress compromise.

Episode 103

Episode #1.103

Arne pretends Sara is Ecomoda-director only in name. Simon and Lieven ask Marnix to make the wedding dress design more affordable, the designer is in a good mood now the classy model Viviane Verminnen (Phaedra Hoste!) they couldn't get for Turkey will do his fashion show; while Lieven isn't in to finalize her contract, Viviane insists to see her ex-lover Simon, now amicably, a frightening sight for jealous Sara, who even gets thrown out aloud after several silly intrusions, Lieven makes him apologize after signing up Viviane. Leon desperately hopes to convince the heirs to call off the split and collaborate, Alexander has to anyhow now the wedding is back on.

Episode 104

Episode #1.104

Arne has a hard time cheering up miserable Sara, who won't even tell him what's bothering her. Lieven grumbles in the gym locker-room because he must stay in Lille for a while, and insists Simon must make up big-time with Sara for Viviane, but she now became defensive, even at Jurgen's exposition, where Simon sees his fiancée's nudes. Gullible Ann keeps adoring pretentious Filip and looking down on direct Nils. Alexander feels deserted now even Britt only has eyes for Daniel; she's furiously jealous to hear Sara owns all of Ecomoda, and considers getting a job there. Hans catches crazy Martine who broke in again and jealously noticed another woman's hand: Lut.

Episode 105

Episode #1.105

Simon frolics to make up with initially reticent Sara in Lieven's apartment, they get physical again. Hans insists Martine imagined anything between them, he loves only Lut, who is not amused when walking in. Niels finally has a fun evening with An, then Filip walks in and is told off. Jurgen's nude photos, surprising even for the model, don't lead directly to a break-up, until the make-up sex proves an embarrassing failure. Daniel and Britt are happy together.

Episode 106

Episode #1.106

Simon phones with Lieven in the gym, instructions for Sara-care follow by mail. Arne tells Sara a fabrics manufacturer insists to meet Ecomoda's client Présence to check if it's legit. Sara notices Martine made herself look just like her late mother Myriam, Hans tells Lut who demands the mad woman barred entry before she returns. Britt finds Alexander has a hang-over, out of character, he throws her out, Simon doesn't even want to know. Ellen finally gets a postcard from Thomas.

Episode 107

Episode #1.107

A personal card from Thomas relieves Ellen; Niels proves a truly understanding and supportive friend, finally acknowledged by fickle Ann. Sara pretends to ignore who is Simon's lover, yet the Présence alliance by wedding is endangered by mistrusting maneuvers. Hans and Lut consider making up properly, yet don't agree what to think about Martine, who has a fall in his home. Sara's peeking in a letter from Lieven proves a rude awakening: his wooing instructions for Simon.

Episode 108

Episode #1.108

Now Martine is found and thrown out, by Hans, Lut is back. Heartbroken Sara asks Arne along to the model agency's party, but won't explain to anyone. Now Alexander has stopped payment of her rent, Britt asks Daniel to move in with him, he accepts. Alexander is bitter, gloomy, drinking whiskey early, in a bar. Wining 'everything wilts' on the way back, he accidentally runs over Daniel and disappears after calling an ambulance on Daniel's own cellphone. Leon is physically recovered but refuses the suggestion to return temporarily to the torn-apart Présence management.

Episode 109

Episode #1.109

Britt is furious at Alexander for causing Daniel's supposed dumping her, he's worried stiff till he knows she ignores about the accident, yet still offers her to pay her rent again, she scorns the offer. Deadly hurt by Simon's double game, Sara is far less job-committed, even refuses to attend the durability control meeting with Ecomoda's supplier but saves the day at the last minute, yet tells Arne to prepare calling the collateral on Ecomoda's loans to Présence, Simon is Godstruck. Only when Arne comes pick her up for Esther's model agency's party Sara tells him about Lieven's instructions. Britt and Arne dine again- now Daniel is out, she accepts to keep silent about Sara's part for the time being. Léon asks Alexander what's the trouble, in vain.

Episode 110

Episode #1.110

Arne convinces Sara they must go to the models agency's party despite Simon and Lieven's dirty game, playing for money and power themselves using Ecomoda's markers. When the police reports Daniel has died in a hit and run, Britt is a total wreck, she invites Arne; Alexander is worried. Léon is preparing himself for the possibility the heirs' feud may require his return as CEO.

Episode 111

Episode #1.111

Alexander condoles Britt, who blames him -ironically the unknown, unintentional physical killer- for 'causing' Daniel's death by canceling her rent, yet accepts him resuming payment, but she shows him out to receive now eligible Arne. Sara remains vindictively cold to Simon, without telling him she knows about Lieven's wooing coaching, which goes on by phone; she now craves Arne, who is released by Britt. Jurgen explains about the nudes. Marnix finds Nils drawing while without tasks, demands a few days off himself to seek inspiration, yet Simon not only refuses but suggests looking at his parents' Senegalese souvenir fabrics collections.

Episode 112

Episode #1.112

Simon is worried sick now Sara takes a day off unannounced to tour on Arne's Vespa. Marnix is back, even in a good enough mood to tell Nils his sketches prove more talent then his academy failing grade suggests, Ann also compliments his work. Britt is startled Alexander sort of steals a kiss. Jurgen offers to donate the nudes to the 'happy couple' after his exposition.

Episode 113

Episode #1.113

Now Sara checks all Simon's affection tokens at Lieven's wooing instructions, nothing works anymore, both are in a morbid mood. Sara decides to treat the colleagues, even Marnix, to a dinner in a fancy restaurant for Ann's birthday. Alexander is depressed, feeling guilty about Daniel. Arne makes Sara consider starting an Ecomoda collection using Nils's designs, the boy is surprised but quickly interested. Patrick accidentally learns from George that Thomas worked at Présence too, and blames Ellen for not telling him. Now the trust between Simon and Sara is broken, elated Britt becomes his agenda secretary.

Episode 114

Episode #1.114

Nils surprises Marnix by refusing to become his assistant. Simon refuses Lieven's advice how to handle his date with Sara. Arne enjoys flaunting Ecomoda's wealth, but Sara -who is excused to come late at the birthday party she pays for Ann- grimly stops trying to look good as Simon considers her ugly anyhow. At the pub where Sara asked to meet Sara Simon is approached by Tanya and other foxy girls, she keeps bitching, he offers a pay-rise and perks, she sneers only Ecomoda can afford it, he tries kissing and proposing frolicking in Lieven's place, which backfires. Britt freaks when she gets car trouble.

Episode 115

Episode #1.115

Now spiteful Sara is no longer his reliable right-hand, Simon has to trust Britt to mail the crucial board report to Lieven in Lille. He has a hard time explaining to his parents why he is always occupied as Helena handles the wedding, Sara the report. Although the tension remains, Simon and Sara mutually reaffirm their love. Britt is desperate to finance a new car, so she tries her luck with Arne in his 'hobby' pub, he replies it's really Ecomoda's money, yet she gets a dinner date and brags about it to Sara. When Patrick drops by, Ellen tells him the boy is in Rumania, he promises to search for him, they decide to form a parental team; Patrick soon finds out Thomas worked a month as volunteer in a Rumanian builders camp, but left two days ago without a trace. Jurgen eagerly tells Simon was publicly seen kissing Sara. Sara decides Arne has forfeited her trust and fires her only true friend.

Episode 116

Episode #1.116

Alexander sneers when Britt asks him a 20,000 Euro loan to buy a new car, he rather offers a gift- if she, whore, sleeps with him. Simon follows Arne, who needs to talk things trough with Sara, who insists to talk inside a restaurant; she makes him cancel by SMS Britt's date and loan and makes up, sees Simon there and asks Arne to order lobster aloud and kiss. Patrick is pleasantly surprised by a nightly visitor: Thomas; alas the boy had to return from Rumania because of bad health, but insists not to tell his mistrusting mother. Financially desperate, Britt accepts Alexander's offer, all the way, and finds it's not too bad- till he pays only 200 Euro 'her worth'. When Simon jealously follows Sara home, he's so noisy that dad Hans asks him to leave. Simon's declaration not to have done it with Helena since their Lille night gives Sara hope again he may truly love her, without conviction.

Episode 117

Episode #1.117

The doctor assures Patrick and Thomas the boy has a virus and should recover fairly easily. He made Patrick promise not to tell his ma, fearing she might still turn him in to the police; Patrick tells Ellen anyhow and fails to keep her away; seeing his ma makes Thomas run off, cursing Patrick as another traitor, then he gives criminal 'mate' Koen a 24 hours ultimatum to flee or the cops hear everything he knows. Hans can't believe how little his daughter still cares for Présence. When Simon tells Lieven he's at his wits end, the wooing coach returns to Antwerp immediately. After their 200 Euro night, Britt demands a car's price from Alexander for 'priceless' information. It takes both his parents to make Simon join Helena looking for a house to live in after their wedding; overhearing them confuses Sara, Lieven's phrase "I'm trustworthy" convinces her both men are pigs. Marnix shows Nils fitting on a model like An only goes so far, and insists the bride drops by, stat.

Episode 118

Episode #1.118

Sara successfully makes Simon crazy by deliberately wasting time on the board report, Lieven grumbles Simon seems more upset about Sara's attention for Arne than about the firm's peril. Alexander is ready to pay Britt's car for information to use against Simon before the board meeting, but she sneers he's too late now Helena grants her a loan for a new car. Ellen tells only Lut in confidence about Thomas's return. Koen calls Alexander, who refuses to meet him. Sara wonders who to confide into, deciding on modeling agency executive Esher Bossiers, then calls Arne, who just fixed Ecomoda's Ivorian fabrics supply. Ann is impressed because Nils's designs will be used for an Ecomoda collection. Koen offers Alexander the tape and the bet contract in exchange for a call to the police that he saw Thomas. Arne can't lodge Thomas but arranges a 'neutral' meeting, in his pub, with ma Ellen.

Episode 119

Episode #1.119

Arne arranged for Thomas and ma Ellen to meet in his pub, but she barely promised not to turn him in to the police -who just got Alexander's call at Koen's instigation- or she suggests he should present himself and asks another confirmation of innocence; next they go to Patrick, where Thomas is shocked his ma kept from him all those years his dad is alive, but Patrick convinces him a chance to be father and son is a more important cause for celebration. Sara meets Mrs. Ellen Bossiers and recalls her long perilous 'affair' with Simon, who meanwhile accidentally meets a certain Stefaan Vanderlinden in a pub and tells his loveless wedding dilemma, both are advised to follow their hart. Arne considers to give the Ivorian fabrics to Nils for the Ecomoda collection, rather then to Marnix for Présence's. The police detective finds Britt at the restaurant, then gets Alexander's fake statement about seeing Thomas, Koen listens hidden.

Episode 120

Episode #1.120

Alexander and Koen are relieved they can go their separate ways. The police tells Ellen Alexander reported seeing Thomas and remembering his 'guilt', worthless 'mother' Ellen takes his word against her own son's and repudiates the kid as incurable lier by phone, yet Marnix seriously doubts Alexander's sudden memory recovery. Simon happens to be at Arne's pub when Nils presents there his designs for the Ecomoda collection. Arne's protective boyfriend - and publican - act taunts Simon till he hits Arne hard, Nils risks his job trying to stop Simon. Sara is even more disgusted, feels guilty and considers a complete new start, in another business. Drunken Simon makes an ass of himself, Alexander eagerly informs his parents.

Episode 121

Episode #1.121

Thomas tells astonished Patrick how Ellen threw him out, dad happily takes him in. Nils tels Hans and Lut about the bar fight. To already sore Arne's horror, Sara wants to terminate Ecomoda after a last treat. Marnix accepts to let Britt model in the next show, but she gets no advance. Simon writes a love letter to Sara; his pa Leon finds him drunk and sends him home by cab. Alexander now has a shot at proxies for parental shares. Arne is invited at Britt's 'to nurse him', in fact for wine.

Episode 122

Episode #1.122

After paying him a little attention, Britt asks Arne a 15,000 Euro loan, he admits Ecomoda won't help anymore. Hans can't get details out of depressed Sara. Patricks surprises still sick-feeling Paul Anka-fan Thomas with a Platters record, a shared pleasure fit for pa-son-bonding. Simon is back with a killer hang-over and 'sends' Sara another cheesy card, she just demands he apologizes to Arne and publicly to the staff for his drunk talk, which he does, but not that he was jealous of Arne, afterward claims it's impossible business-wise. Leon is preparing to return as CEO, believing Alexander may be as unreliable as Simon presently. Koen makes Alexander inquire with the police if Thomas is found- no trace. Simon calls Michèle about an extension of Présence's lucrative perfume line, ignoring she's no longer a consultant but has her own firm, In Fine, with a partner, Jan Nyman, who wants her to learn all details about his plan before telling Simon.

Episode 123

Episode #1.123

Britt is finally ready to sell Alexander the info to break Simon at the board-meeting, and produces the copy Daniel left about Sara's legal position in Ecomoda; both are pleased, they may grow closer again. Simon tells Michèle Présence wants two more scents for men and one for women, she gets him to allow her business partner Jan Nyman to drop by. Ellen lies to the police not to have heard about Thomas's whereabouts. Sara grumpily puts all Simon's gifts way, but accepts to work all night to include the perfume extension figures he still has to negotiate in the report. Jan has a quick meeting with reporter Brenda, one of Simon's flirts, Michèle mistrusts his methods to land Présence as client.

Episode 124

Episode #1.124

Nils asks Lut to confirm Ann has no lover, then successfully invites Ann to a movie and drinks. Simon's parents keep breathing in his neck while they await Alexander's news at the board meeting; it's a bomb shell: the notarized Ecomoda statutes, signed by Sara; Alexander drags her in, she pretends Arne is the owner, she only has a small share- Britt only brought one page, which doesn't mention the figures, Alexander demands she gets the rest from Arne or no pay, but her admirer has had enough of the gold-digger. Patrick tells Ellen Thomas is sicker again, she fears the police may trace her if she visits him; after learning this, Thomas sneaks out, leaving a thank-you note for pa Patrick. Hans finally accepts to join Lut to the theater. Jan questions Brenda about Présence's power and financial structure, then presents In Fine's offer to Sara, insisting Simon agreed to a contract already, Sara makes him add a clause Michèle will help set up the perfume line.

Episode 125

Episode #1.125

Sara regrets her lies to the board now she disbelieves Simon's love, yet is persuaded by his pleading to go on; seeking comfort with Esther, she brings her chocolates as thank-you, and is startled when model Kim is fired on the spot for a rude giggle at Sara. Hans cancels the theater evening Lut was looking forward to, working late and not really interested; she goes anyway, has drinks afterward and calls Hans she'll spend the night at her flat again. Nils was looking forward to a movie with An, but she brings along another girl, Elke, when they meet in Arne's pub Chocolat; he's offended by the obvious matching attempt. Marnix is delighted to find Thomas at his doorstep, shocked the dear boy is on the run for the police, again to sick to eat, and calls his friend Frederik, M.D. Jan Nyman and Michèle celebrate landing the Présence account. When Esther learns Sara wants to leave Présence, she asks her as her modeling agency's financial director.

Episode 126

Episode #1.126

Marnix's friend the doctor diagnoses Thomas with encephalitis, he really should go to hospital. Sara doesn't tell Simon she has accepted another job, yet continues the report to the board. Steven blames Britt for chasing off his unfaithful wife. Simon walks out on Helena's celebration for finding a marital villa, so she drinks with Steven, who questions her fun-less way of living. Arne agrees with Nils to produce only four of his designs for an Ecomoda line, only later Sara tells Arne she plans to pull the plug on both jobs, he makes her reconsider.

Episode 127

Episode #1.127

Hans is delighted Lut still came home to sleep with him. Recalling their romantic past, Steven and Helena kiss; just then Simon arrives and calls the wedding plan a farce, then confers with Lieven how everything goes wrong in his life and is told to start up the larger perfume line with Michèle, who is a bit suspicious of his frisky side. Marnix calls Ellen, shocked she still doubts Thomas, and tells the terrifying diagnosis. George finds Nils using Marnix's office for his own designs. An, who must model for Nils, brings her new silver-spoon boyfriend Charles, a charming archeology student, Nils refuses a bit jealously to join them for lunch. Sara finally goes to Esther to sign up for her agency's financial directorship, then goes instruct Arne to shut down Ecomoda completely. Marnix tells Patrick about Thomas.

Episode 128

Episode #1.128

Patrick and Elken worry about sick Thomas at Marnix's. Nils presents his designs to Arne, who must tell him he'll be paid but Ecomoda is being shut down, no line. Once again, shallow An brags about her date to Nils. When Sara hands the finished report for the board to Simon, he hugs and kisses her, she still doesn't tell him she has signed a contract elsewhere. Alexander eagerly looks forward to toppling Simon at the board, but the Van Wyck parents meanwhile doubt his intentions. The doctor decides Thomas must be hospitalized immediately, never mind the police. Simon and Helena agree to call off the wedding neither would be faithful to, and tell Lieven viz. his dismayed parents.

Episode 129

Episode #1.129

Now Thomas is in hospital, Marnix finds his cellphone and redials, but information won't give him Koen Meuris's address. Sara finishes her nostalgic goodbye-tour, reminiscing alone before telling Hans and Lut she has accepted another job, then goes to Arne, whose last attempt to save Ecomoda fails. Simon's parents can't believe the wedding is off even before the board starts, but when he tells Lieven, his mother's shares proxy depend on it, they are overheard by Sara pondering if the 'business alliance' is inevitable.

Episode 130

Episode #1.130

After hearing Simon and Lieven plan to send her to Ivory Coast, Sara drops a bomb shell at the board: her true part in Ecomoda and Présence's debt. Alexander triumphs as even Leon demands Simon's resignation, then refuses to succeed him as CEO of a ruin. Then Sara pleads against closing down, both de Lannoye siblings want Sara's resignation, she goes as she planned. Marnix hands the police Thomas's cellphone, but maintains to ignore his whereabouts, yet Ellen dares say he 'went too far', Patrick tries to calm her. Nils is surprised An now encourages him to keep designing and look for another manufacturer. Arne changes Ecomoda's announcement 'out of business' to 'temporarily'. Jan Nyman insists Michèle must work on Lieven personally.

Episode 131

Episode #1.131

Even now Sara has spilled the beans and ruined his career, Simon wants her to stay and tries kissing, in vain, but Helena sees them and wines to the board, where Alexander's offer to become CEO is now rejected as disloyally late by Leon, who seriously considers returning himself and refuses to speak with son, both till further notice. Lieven has to leave Michèle- with the bill. When Ann worries about losing her menial supply job, boy-friend Charles promises he would take her on his yacht in the Canaries, for months, meanwhile an evening at the casino, she may keep any profits. Arne accepts to find a lawyer to negotiate Ecomoda's credits on Présence, but is offended to hear Sara went first to Esther, so he shows her out. While Patrick and Ellen prepare to visit Thomas and decide against taking Ann along, Marnix has a phone-call with him.

Episode 132

Episode #1.132

An brags insensitively to Nils about her champagne Charles, but can't handle him telling she's but a toy for the golden boy. Thomas is relieved to have his parents besides him 'as a family', but they're not ready to consider living together. Leon insists Simon is immature and completely in the doghouse, but finds Sara's business efforts saved most Simon would have ruined, yet realizing how deep Présence has fallen gives the acting CEO another heart-attack. Lieven can't get desperately gloomy Simon to talk or drink, he even idiotically dumps his last friend as 'bad adviser'. Sara starts telling Hans and Lut the truth and welcomes Arne warmly. After a talk with Lieven, Michèle doesn't tell Jan how bad Présence's peril is.

Episode 133

Episode #1.133

Hans and Lut worry although they know only half how down Sara is, only Arne comforts how now she can't even bothered to chose a lawyer to handle Ecomoda's interests versus Présence. Simon still blames Lieven's well-intended advice, he still can't believe Simon feels for the ugly duckling. Britt has no luck trying to make her benefactor Helena bid for the CEO-position. In hospital, where Patrick and Ellen dare not tell they just visited Thomas, Leon's heart-attack is diagnosed much worse then his first, permanent respiratory damage may keep him in bed for life, the CEO succession is most uncertain.

Episode 134

Episode #1.134

Sara's now scorned lover and sacked CEO Simon melancholically wanders trough Antwerp, totally depressed. Lieven finds him, in vain advising to stop pitying himself. Lut tells Hans she can't get used to restrictive country life, asking him to consider moving to her city apartment, in-living Sara gives her blessing. Now Leon's wife is in temporary charge of Présence, Britt courts her, shooing Brenda. Ellen hands Patrick Thomas's fathers-day-presents. An commends Nils on his first aid to Leon, he is angry she falls for Charles.

Episode 135

Episode #1.135

Lieven tells Simon he fears to have started on the wrong foot with Michèle, only then learns about Léon's condition. Alexander hopes in vain nursing Léon would stop his wife standing for CEO; Britt is determined her mentor-friend should stand. Nils insists An should consider Charles's sincere motives before accepting his two months yachting offer, they kiss after declaring they are ready to be together. Lut complains Hans seeks excuses not to move into her city apartment, but when Sara's new employer Esther insists she must join her on a photo-shoot on the Canaries the trial-move is decided. In Arne's pub, Patrick and Ellen tell him they're Thomas's parents.

Episode 136

Episode #1.136

Helena has forced Sara to show her the personal belongings she wants to take home, thus facing Simon's 'purposeful' stream of gifts. Marnix is told not only Léon is probably crook for life, his new season's production is 'on hold', his designing too- he tells Nils to consider transferring to another firm soon, being in demand. Alexander was eager to keep Présence afloat, but then hears his sister changed her mind and stands for CEO, as Britt always suggested. Jan insists to join Michèle's meeting with Lieven, who points out he agreed to work with her. Hans can't help Simon reach Sara.

Episode 137

Episode #1.137

Marnix calls the police to be assured they have no trace of Thomas. Nils is delighted he can use Marnix's workshop in his indefinite absence, An thinks of more intimate uses, like with his predecessor as runner and her lover, Thomas. Leon stubbornly refuses any contact with Simon, who is in danger of becoming a lush, Lieven fails to get him out of the pub. Steven fears architect Olivier Mathyssen may become a rival for Simon's ex-fiancée, she keeps both at distance. Brenda refuses to spy on Lieven for Jan Nyman, rather tests Michèle about Jan. Patrick and Ellen are delighted Thomas is to be released from hospital and agree to let him decide with which parent he'll stay, being still a fugitive.

Episode 138

Episode #1.138

23 mins

Hans and Lut move to her city apartment, with some nostalgia for his cozy rustic house. Présence's lawyer Wouter Douwe insists they must take on Ecomoda soon, before Sara can get good advice; Simon can't find her either but turns up tipsy at the De Roose home while she's alone there, so she hides; even threatening Hans with the sack doesn't make him tell Simon where Sara is. Nils and An enjoy each-others naked company in Marnix's workshop, she can't forgot nor precisely remember Thomas physically. Thomas decides to live with neither parent, Marnix is safer. The police tells Alexander they found the nude An-drawing with many other stolen stuff at Koen Meuris's home: Thomas is off the hook. Arne promises he and their lawyer will defend Ecomoda while Sara is on the Canaries.

Episode 139

Episode #1.139

Hans fears Simon might make true on his firing threat, Lut verifies it won't happen and tells Simon she's 'abroad'. Just when his parents were helping Thomas to move, the police inspector arrives- to return his cellphone and tell the drawing was found in -now fugitive- Koen's home: Thomas is no longer a suspect; he decides not to move to Marnix's and wants to re-contact An, but she's kissing Nils meanwhile and agrees to meet Charles, albeit to turn him down and accept Nils's suggestion to take the fast train to Paris for three days. Alexander heads Présence's economizing exercise. Arne only tells that Ecomoda has taken a lawyer, Elisa, which he meets and likes at first sight.

Episode 140

Episode #1.140

Steven learns the disastrous truth and consoles Helena in his arms, refuses to get closer to Simon again. Sara realizes Ellen took her along days before the Canaries shoot as a diversion, there's no real business to do; Arne assures here things are going well, and Ecomoda's lawyer Elisa Degroot is a woman to his taste. Leon is slowly recovering a bit, but fears Présence is even worse off, much depends on their lawyer Wouter's defense against Ecomoda's claim. Thomas finds Ann absent and gets Alexander's hypocritical apologies 'by the way'. Marnix is back. For once Lieven is 'in between jobs', Britt is busy as everyone's secretary. The lawyers turns out to be colleagues in the same large firm, and propose an amicable settlement, or a fusion between both firms.

Episode 141

Episode #1.141

Lieven and Britt become friends again. Simon is the only one confident Sara will grant Présence time to become solvent before refunding its debts to Ecomoda, considers the general advice to reconcile with his ex-bride, but when they meet spontaneously tells her he has shared Sara's bed. Alexander promises Marnix a lunch date well worth attending. Leon hates the nurse's infantile nursery tone. Arne feels for the lawyer's suggestion to ask Sara's proxy, so they to can handle he claims matter- together, Esther convinces Sara to oblige.

Episode 142

Episode #1.142

Alexander's news for Marnix is a shock: a fusion Présence-Ecomoda could mean his designs loose the label anyhow, so why not join his own de Lannoye firm, yet no deal: the founding designer is loyal, till full creative control and his own name on the label make Marnix reconsider. Arne is in a playful mood when Ecomoda's lawyer approves Sara's proxy, which allows her to get into the holiday spirit, till Simon's gifts rekindle her longing, a message Simon makes Arne pass on makes her intend to return home. Hans finds it hard to get used to Lut's city apartment. Britt gets Lieven to go out with her again, believing she may have changed. Lieven can hardly believe Simon bluntly told his ex he shared Sara's bed, she gets the same reaction from Britt. Leon remains miserable in bed. Arne is told he must attend Présence's staff meetings to guard Ecomoda's interests.

Episode 143

Episode #1.143

After a reluctant evening, Lieven admits Britt has changed for the better, they agree a 'real' date. Lut tells Hans she doesn't object to him checking by at his house. Leon is finally home, in bed with a private nurse, youngster Gert Hermans, who even offers to cook; Simon is desperate to see him and make-up, before his pa might die. Thomas tries to see Ellen and really An, in vain. Ecomoda's lawyer's request to admit Arne to Présence's staff meetings is accepted. Arne pretends to accept a date with Britt, who lies to Lieven she has family obligations.

Episode 144

Episode #1.144

Marnix is happy to see Thomas up again, is thanked for his brave hospitality but keeps silent about Ann and Nils; later he tells Elle she or Patrick should bring the bad news. Leon is getting used to life at home with nurse Gert. Lieven is eager enough to date Britt again to wait and invite her at his place, but she rather stops by Arne's pub, where she is only kept on a string and then presented to Ecomoda's lawyer, even told he prefers to date Elisa, Alexander is amused to observe her lousy mood. Hans has 'found' Sara's diary, and starts reading it against Lut's warning to respect her privacy. Despite her utter bumbling wen presented to stylist Jacob, Sara thinks they'll get on and disposes of Simon-mementos.

Episode 145

Episode #1.145

Arne arriving to attend the Présence staff meeting as Ecomoda observer allows Lieven to find out bitch Britt two-timed both of them, and dump her. Both de Lannoyes decide to boycott the meeting, Arne leaves affronted and asks Sara to return, she refuses even long-term, attorney Elise's promise to attend too next time restores his confidence. Leon tells nurse Geert his hard way to the top was tops, enough to raise his blood-pressure; he fails to turn worried Simon away but demands he restores the firm before really talking to him; to please his parents he must accept to attend again, but against Lieven's wise warning boozes too badly to pick up in the bar. Jan begins to loose confidence in the new Presénce perfume line plan.

Episode 146

Episode #1.146

Léon is feeling desperately useless, lonely despite good nurse Gert, losing interest in Présence as 'ever worse bad news show'. Thomas visits Marnix, but is told his runner job couldn't be kept open; he wishes his successor Nils, a fashion academy graduate, well, ignoring he's also his successor as An's lover...

Episode 147

Episode #1.147

Hearing his ma has removed Simon from both the meetings with Ecomoda and the commercial service depresses Léon so much that he doesn't want to hear about the firm anymore, nurse Gert gets him to talk about it and avoid a black hole. Arne learns his lawyer is pregnant, and married. Thomas tells Hans he fears without a diploma getting another job may prove very hard, the sees An and Nils kissing, yet stays gentle. Sara's restyling puts her in a good enough mood to tell pa to buy a new kitchen at her expense, but soon feels it's not like her, too artificial.

Episode 148

Episode #1.148

While they have a bite together, Nils is enthusiastic about his Paris trip with An, she and Thomas rather hint at their past. Side-tracked Simon seems totally unattractive, so Brit suggests Helena should dump him for Steven, whose invitation to meet over drinks is reluctantly accepted, but still still motivates her to ask Margo the union negotiations back so they can meet regularly. Ellen finally convinces Sara at least to accept stylist Jacob's drinks invitation, next a promenade. Arne is again denied Sara's return, so suggest a one-to-one on his own...

Episode 149

Episode #1.149

Lieven makes Ellen admit she was just too chicken to tell Thomas about Ann and Nils replacing him both as runner and lover. Thomas is desperate in Arne's pub. Steven gets absolutely nowhere with spasmodically inflexible Margot and warns Helena that must lead to union action, she invites him for a happily embraced home meal. Britt first sneers at Alexander for his dull love-life, then apologizes and offers dinner, which after an initial icy refusal is coolly accepted, there she compliments his CEO potential, wisely mistrusted but "that's exciting". Even now Arne makes her a generous spread payments proposal without fusion, amateur Margo only 'considers it' haughtily mistrusting. Sara enjoyed the walks enough to try Jacob's next suggestion, mediation, after accompanying him checking out photo-shoot sights by jeep.

Episode 150

Episode #1.150

Thomas is the first whose polite refusal talks Simon out of another Whiskey round; Simon successfully requests 'another chance' at Présence, but he'll have to prove himself. Ellen is no help for Thomas, but one call to Ann and she leaves to meet him, Nils isn't happy but lets her. Steven tells his plight. Leon learns about Arne's fairly accommodating payment plan. Meditation had got Sara some self-confidence, but after meeting the charming law student who came on the photo-shoot as photographer's assistant, moving on unable to keep the conversation going over a minute, she bumbles out again knocking over a tray of appetizers; only Jacob's second attempt gets her back from moping in her room. Lut drags Hans to a movie and drinks, he sees former village-neighbor Miel who wines he couldn't get used to city-life in 20 years.

Episode 151

Episode #1.151

Thomas hears Ann had others after him and is with Nils, to stay. Patrick is glad his son doesn't blame him anymore, but the boy is totally down after talking with Ann and feels it's his own fault for leaving her without a word so long, dad advises simply talking to Nils. Drunk Simon gets roughed up in an alley by nasty motor-bikers. Driving and talking with Britt after dinner gives Alexander nightmare memories of running over Daniel. Hans and Lut agree city-life isn't nearly as dreary as Miel feels, Hans even has a surprise for her, but... Just now Sara was feeling better, Simon appears in her dreams. Brenda tells Jan she overheard Alexander about Présence's plight and he wonders why Michèle didn't tell him; Simon refuses to comment when Brenda asks him if it's true.

Episode 152

Episode #1.152

Simon's smacking seems a new start, at last. Brenda keeps snooping, Marnix only says things are crooked and cracking in Présence, no details; Simon refuses to dot the I's but agrees to a business lunch, according to Britt absurd given his suspended competence. Thomas passes by his successor Nils, promises not to steal An back, gets the green light for drinks all three. Michèle tells Lieven she fears Jan is getting wind of Présence's problems, he refuses to tell Jan yet. The police wants to contact Thomas to help catch Koen, he agrees to phone the ex-con, getting his voice-mail, supposedly for quick money, a heist together. Léon warns his wife she's doing too much, in vain.

Episode 153

Episode #1.153

Brenda isn't fooled by Simon's explanations, but offers to forget about publishing Présence's perils provided they continue their 'cover' story in a hotel-room; naive Margo nearly ruins it by insisting Brenda should come talk to her, her next miserable move is to tell Michèle the contract requires her part-time presence at Présence, next deservedly is told by Alexander to keep her nose out of his love-life. His never supportive ma Ellen wines to Thomas now he collaborates with the police to catch Koen it's 'too dangerous'. Simon ultimately tells Brenda he can't make love to her, not because of whom.

Episode 154

Episode #1.154

Despite cold feet, Thomas helps the police set up a trap to arrest Koen, which works. Léon worries Margo is doing too much, nurse Gert convinces him he must get better to be there for her if she crashes. Haunting memories of Daniel make both Alexander and Britt take a rain check for their dinner. Margo idiotically discredits Simon herself towards Brenda, who is not amused to be suggested to talk to Helena henceforth and tells Lieven she feels it's time to drop her empty flirts, then confers with Jan.

Episode 155

Episode #1.155

An is delighted Thomas helped the police arrest Koen, her present lover Nils clearly irritated. Syeven brings Helena flowers for a dinner invitation, inappropriate according to meddling matron Margot, who is confronted by Jan who loses his patience, they agree Michèle comes work part-time, then perfume production starts. Hans takes Lut out- choosing a new kitchen for his house, she's unwilling to be involved. Léon makes Lieven contact Simon again, hoping he'll regain his positive influence. Sara broods on.

Episode 156

Episode #1.156

Hans is surprised Lut questions the sense of a new kitchen now they may stay in the city and Sara might move out. Steven is looking forward to his new start as his divorce is finalized; Helena helps him celebrate, they kiss, yet he feels she's not quite ready so quickly after her engagement to Simon. Lieven tries to return Simon to real life, notable business- the payment plan proves a sufficient lure, only doubting Sara's part still seems out of bounds, then that starts sinking in too. Nils demands Ann clearly chooses him over Thomas, or breaks up, she only says to fell less for Thomas then before, he's not satisfied but stays with the doubter.

Episode 157

Episode #1.157

Alexander and Britt dine and conspire against Sara, she assures him to be over missing Daniel and tells startled Hans his daughter is to face fraud charges. Lieven enjoys Brenda for sex, Michèle for talk and job. Now the photo-shoot is finished, Sara is finally happy with her make-over. Dad Patrick realizes Thomas worries more about Ann and Nils then about finding a job, so he and Ellen plan a family evening- bowling. Simon is told to remove all his things, even gifts, from his ex's loft. Britt tells Alexander she's ready for evening intimacy, already.

Episode 158

Episode #1.158

Jan asks Brenda to stop seeing Lieven. Thomas tells his parents he won't bowl, only watch them, but when a girl his age insists he joins her and her sister, getting on great with Jana. Hans and Lut worry about Sara's fraud charges, even Arne thinks all is in her diary and Alexander ignores she kept one. Britt further seduces Alexander. Sara enjoys her new looks, wardrobe and confidence, yet won't quite respond to Jacob's overture.

Episode 159

Episode #1.159

On her last Canaries night, Sara finally gives herself to Jacob- but retreats at the last moment because she's not quite over Simon yet, they actually sleep together as intimate friends. Alexander is no less passionate in bed with Britt, even declares to love her, but is clearly tortured by his Daniel secret. Simon finally tells Lieven he hates Sara now, and is finished for good with his ex, who tells her no-longer-ex Steven the same, drinking on their future together. Patrick and Ellen enjoy bowling, and especially seeing son Thomas has fun again, even sort of dating a girl. Arne is startled to hear from Thomas Présence is going to sue Sara.

Episode 160

Episode #1.160

Sara is near tears now even dad confirms the impending fraud charges, just now she hoped to be over Simon. Léon has lost faith in Présence and Simon's future. Lut stops Hans from giving up his job as a sign of solidarity. Britt is furious Alexander left just a note by her bed and startled to see Steven banned by the acting CEO except for official union meetings, but it only drives the ex-couple even further apart, only teaming up to tell the would-be-coupler off. Simon tries desperately to avoid a fraud trial, but neither side seems willing to come to a menial agreement, so he tells Lieven his fear to be convicted for instructing her, but nobody will tell him where she is.

Episode 161

Episode #1.161

Leon isn't surprised to hear from his wife their arranged engagement hope is gone forever, even working together requires grudging effort now, yet promises to give son Simon another chance if he shows professional progress. Seve warns Simn the rumors make the staff restless. Alexander tells Brit his shallow habits with women aren't quite adequate for their growing development. When An meets Thomas, she learns about his 'bowling conquest' Jane and his hating unemployment, while Nils is sick of the empty runner job. Nurse Gert told Hans to tread carefully when visiting Leon, but he announces the fraud charges plan, and adds Simon also 'abused Sara privately', which is believed.

Episode 162

Episode #1.162

Hans, Arne and Lut welcome made-over, more confident Sara approvingly. Britt is jealous of lawyer Niki's business lunch with Alexander, but they make up kissing. Leon worries about Hans's emotional abuse claim, even would prefer Présence's fraud charge dropped. After bumping into Thomas, who meets with his 'bowling conquest' Jana in Arne's pub, Sara -finally without dental retainer- is approached by a hot gay with a horoscope line but shows no interest; at home she's furious when dad betrays himself having read her diary. Ann discourages Nils to throw in his job even before he can resume his fashion studies, both wonder who the girl is they see Thomas with.

Episode 163

Episode #1.163

After Présence's lawyer claims Sara's short career was nothing but fraud and demands she relinquishes all Ecomoda's security claims in exchange for dropping the fraud charges, the board hesitates to take her word then they should sue her; she goes see Simon, who instructed her, privately. Patrick convinces Thomas dating Jana doesn't mean giving up Ann for good, and gets him and Ellen to join him as a family for a restaurant dinner. Thomas visits Présence: Ann, Nils and Marnix, who advices against seeing his ex as 'just friends'. After Sara admits doctoring the numbers, Simon states it was always on his orders: exit fraud charges; next she makes up with diary-violating dad.

Episode 164

Episode #1.164

Now Simon has confessed instructing Sara, Britt licks her heals and everyone wonders how things must progress. Thomas's parents are surprised he leaves their family dinner early for a 'friends date' with Ann, where Nils's arrival isn't appreciated. Steven demands a personnel briefing and is pleased to get his contact back. Alexander confers with his lawyer whether to start his own firm after all; Sara's has a spectacular alternative to demanding Ecomoda's dues back...

Episode 165

Episode #1.165

Sara ponders her lawyer's suggestion to demand the CEO position at Présence but decides to demand all Ecomoda's claims back instantly, which would sink Présence; Simon considers an alternative to change Sara's mind. While Jana drags Thomas along to interdisciplinary art installations all over Antwerp, they bump into Ann, who runs off. Marnix warns Nils against open jealousy; when Nils shows his superior art understanding Thomas is the insecure one. Simon's idea is for Sara to become CEP, Leon wanted her to return anyhow, but everybody else is against, Sara lacks confidence.

Episode 166

Episode #1.166

Nils and Ann make up, declaring confidence is restored, he tells to have seen Thomas with a girl who made a good impression; seeing Thomas enter, she demonstratively kisses Nils. Arne joins the pro's of the Sara temporary CEO-plan, she mainly intends to save dad's and friends' employment at Présence. Britt produces a positive pregnancy test, but isn't completely certain Alexander is the (presumed) father. After Alexander blames Simon for the disastrous past and a pause to confer with her lawyer, Sara poses her terms to accept- a free hand for six months, Simon and Lieven become mere employees, Arne her deputy. The board grudgingly accepts, with one counter-clause: if she doesn't generate enough revenue for Présence to pay Ecomoda back after six months, the difference is struck anyhow.

Episode 167

Episode #1.167

When Nils must leave Arne's pub first, he proves not to be jealous by suggesting she talks to Thomas at the bar. Hans and the Présence girls insist Sara gives a nomination staff drink, Marnix is furious not even to have been consulted; Leon sees no problem, despite Simon's demotion. Ellen is finally ready to dine with Patrick without Thomas. Britt can't believe Alexander voted for Sara, but accepts to spy for him without knowing he and his lawyer secretly prepare his own firm founding. Sara recruits Arne as deputy CEO, suspending his publican-job, who takes charge of the celebration; she has her resignation accepted by Esther and invites her and Jacob to the drink, Marnix scorns the 'rabble take-over'.

Episode 168

Episode #1.168

Episode 169

Episode #1.169

Patrick and Ellen enjoy dinner, reminiscing, before joining Sara's nomination party. Nils came with Ann, but she dances with Thomas, who brought Jana and impresses enough with his bar skills to be offered Arne's pub interim. Proud dad Hans feels glorious, but his idea to alternate homes doesn't appeal to Lut. Britt discovers Arne is the new no. 2. Lieven tells Simon he's not waiting to be reinstated at Présence after Sara's six months term. Alexander tells his sister about his delayed exit plan. Simon turns up uninvited, saves Sara from a drunk employee insisting on a dance and wonders who Jacob is.

Episode 170

Episode #1.170

The party at Présence gets wilder, only Ellen is a wet blanket for both Thomas and Patrick. Depressed Lieven meets for drinks with Brenda, who is startled by Sara's power take-over but remains interested in him, Jan sees them kissing. Alexander stops by to make up with Britt, she has a startling announcement: pregnancy, claiming a pill slip-up, he asks suspicious questions, they part in anger. Sara refuses Simon's help, tells him to keep at arms-length and has a fall-out over staff turning up late the next morning.

Episode 171

Episode #1.171

Alexander is persuaded he should discuss Britt's pregnancy with her over lunch, but he demands she has an abortion, unthinkable horror to her. Thomas starts in the pub. Sara's strictness over the staff coming late the morning after her party antagonizes even her friends; after a warning from Lut, she decides to limit the overwork to half the lost time. Leon feels better, Gert is confident he may really recover. Simon unconditionally supports Sara's ideas to cut corners on payments timing, Alexander bags on such fake solutions.

Episode 172

Episode #1.172

Simon infuriates his peers by reminding Sara to raise her pay according to promotion, while Lieven 'forgets' about the personnel data she demanded but advises Simon to seduce her now she's in a power position, in vain; when Lieven tells her it's all on the company server she fires him as personnel chief and puts Arne in charge of HR. Thomas likes his new pub job and the music record Jana gives him on Ann's suggestion, not her probing for his past nor Ann telling about them and his fugue; Nils learns the girls are becoming close friends. Sara even plays though when Marnix, who scorns her anyhow, urgently demands a design budget.

Episode 173

Episode #1.173

Thomas reproaches Ann to turn into a mindless clone of Jana, who makes him admit he still loves Ann a bit. Now Marnix is playing the diva again, Sara accepts Arne's suggestion to give Nils a chance too: a youth collection; Marnix is livid to lose his runner again and predicts disaster. Steven isn't amused Helena doubts if his wife Sylvie really has cancer, she fears to be dumped. Britt is panicking now Alexander completely refused any paternal responsibility. Jan protests Lieven no longer is his firm's contact, but accepts the contract allows this; Arne's flippant sense of humor only annoys Michèle. Leon has another heart-attack.

Episode 174

Episode #1.174

Doctor Dirk finds Leon's situation isn't critical this time, but given the set-back a heart transplantation must be considered, nurse Gert agrees a real life is worth the small risk. Michèle can't collaborate with flippant Arne, and insists Sara should either get Lieven back or find a third person- so Lieven is offered a part-time contract. Simon insists Sara should forgive his beastly abuses; when she says to feel nothing for him anymore and he is back at his old games, playing several fields, Simon makes Helena clarify they're not getting back together even now she lost Steven to his terminal wife. Alexander refuses Britt any further support if she keeps the unwanted baby.

Episode 175

Episode #1.175

Patrick and Ellen double-date in a restaurant with Hans and Lut, but come to realize the tense situation. Lieven discusses Sara's contract proposal with Michèle and Simon. Alexander decides he still wants Britt's love and goes talk to her again.

Episode 176

Episode #1.176

While the other board and staff members still doubt what to expect from Sara, she and Arne brainstorm how to make Présence healthy in six months, staring in the pub with Thomas; she insists against him to ask the old board members for ideas too. Lut insists Hans must tell they're no longer together. When Gert explains the risks and hopes of an operation for Leon, Simon is convinced. Comparing Arne-Sara's ideas with Simon before the meeting starts bringing the ex-lovers closer together again.

Episode 177

Episode #1.177

When Sara and Arne invite both designers for the staff meeting, Marnix only accepts in order to oppose her plans to increase production and start using a non-exclusive sales channel. Meanwhile Arne insists to follow up on a comment from Lut that only 'models' can wear Marnix's high fashion, by launching a 'real women' line to be designed by Nils, who is delighted by such an intimidating but irresistible career opportunity, while such loss of exclusivity drives Marnix into Alexander's arms, so his future firm may inherit the star designer, who could meanwhile sabotage Présence's line- therefore Marnix convinces the board to accept the plan. Britt hopes to keep her pregnancy secret longer, Simon finds the news hilarious. Patrick turns up in her office to make up, but Ellen's stubbornness drives him away, to the pub where Thomas admits finding his ex's photo in his wallet seems to have lost him Jana; both of them are depressed enough to consider emigrating.

Episode 178

Episode #1.178

Now Sara has transferred human resources from Lieven to Helena, she comes up with an acceptable plan to redistribute duties between Ellen, Lut -both angry to get more work at their age-, Hans, An and Britt. Lieven admits to Simon he only accepted the part-time contract at Présence to be with Michèle, who is instructed by Jan to get a move on. Simon asks in vain for more responsibility to regain his sick dad's respect. Nils convinces Arne his 'real women' line requires no models on the cat-walk, rather Présence's own staff. Now Jana has broken up with Thomas, she seeks comfort from Nils, Marnix catches them kissing. Patrick and eager Thomas ponder further if and how to emigrate, the worst is telling Ellen...

Episode 179

Episode #1.179

When Ann calls by for Nils, Marnix sneers he's quit in demand, work is hardly done anymore. When the elder employees complain the new duties weren't even discussed with them, exposed weakling Sara just wines she can't do right for anyone anymore and visits Leon, who plans to buy a boat after his operation. Jan insists on a meeting that day. Alexander keeps plotting with his lawyer Nicky. Ellen finally admits she needs Patrick, who now asks Thomas to reconsider Jana. Lieven and Michèle enjoy working and being together again. Alexander tells Marnix to select some of his classy creations to dress Britt more ladylike as his formal companion, but sparks the predicted diva clash, yet next...

Episode 180

Episode #1.180

Now Helena can't get along with her ex Steven who is back with his terminal wife, she insists Sara should make someone else his social negotiation counterpart, yet suggesting Simon is unacceptable to Sara, who gets another intrusion at home from him but slaps him and says she never wants to see him again, even at Présence. Thomas tells Jana he decides to stay if she wants him still, but she warns him not to stay just for her.

Episode 181

Episode #1.181

Episode 182

Episode #1.182

Episode 183

Episode #1.183

Simon has left indefinitely, to Denmark. Alexander has another terrible nightmare about the accident. Lieven's trick advice for Simon is becoming generally known; now the perfume line is prepared his contract runs out, but Michèle agrees to keep seeing him, Brenda refuses any further contact with either. Thomas has decided to choose for Jana all the way, to his parents's delight, now even ma seems ready to commit...

Episode 184

Episode #1.184

After his heart surgery, Leon wants to buy a yacht, fast, and is ready to see son Simon again, who no longer wants to go to Denmark, but feels he must to prove himself to dad. Nils and An enjoy kissing, but feel guilty towards their partners. Lieven and Michele are really ready preparing the perfume line, but continue for the fun of each-others company.

Episode 185

Episode #1.185

The less Sara wants to think about Simon, the more he dominates her dreams and diary, which she now carries around. Learning Britt is pregnant, Arne is all helpful arranging the French prospection trip in her place while she looks for daddy-to-be Alexander, who is still tortured by the Daniel incident. Michèle dumps Lieven having learned how masterly he coached Simon manipulating Sara for the firm's sake. After a sneer from Marnix about his unconventional collection, Nils tells An he has kissed Jana, she dumps him flat-out. Thomas cheerfully approves his parents's anxious announcement they'll live together again.

Episode 186

Episode #1.186

Alexander can't shake his Daniel-nightmares, and blurts out he's unsure about Britt's baby's parentage, but later proposes, yet won't tell others yet. Now Steven has broken for good with his wife, Helena initially reacts grumpy, then even cancels her France trip for a dinner with him, to Arne and Sara's anger. They finally invite the staff to model Nils's collection, experienced Britt looks down on the idea. Alexander finally tell his sad secret to shocked Britt who now claims Daniel was her only true love.

Episode 187

Episode #1.187

Episode 188

Episode #1.188

Episode 189

Episode #1.189

Marnix sneers Nils will never make his first collection's fashion show deadline, yet Sara believes Nil's confident assurance. Now Simon has saved the day Sara presumes Ella is her 'rival' for him, but soon learns he only praised her. Alexander fears Britt may make his hit and run public, causing a scandal for him and Présence and robbing their baby of parents for sure. Hans gets a surprise visit from Martine, who claims in tears to be raped by her therapist; he lets her sleep on the couch one night, Lut is furious when she answers the phone.

Episode 190

Episode #1.190

Now Ella's team has arrived to prepare Nils's 'casual' fashion show, Simon overhears Ellen tell Lut she thinks Sara has something with stylist Jakob, who assures Thomas and dad her makeover tapped into her potential. With the sweet taste of success, Michèle tells Lieven Jan wants her to stay longer to help him get some Présence stock; each de Lannoye plainly refuses to sell him their shares, Sara promises to consider an offer on Ecomoda's. Helen makes a silly scene to Steven about him not telling her everything but succumbs to playful kisses.

Episode 191

Episode #1.191

Simon proves his devotion to Présence, even doing legwork to find rose petals for Nils's show. Leon, who is impatient to go sailing after his operation, finally agrees to seeing repentant son Simon again after learning about his Danish project, then pleads for Lieven's well-done job to be rewarded. Thomas finally forgives Nils for kissing Jana, and makes up with An himself- passionately kissing. Alexander and Britt stay aloof, emotionally numb.

Episode 192

Episode #1.192

Leon and Simon are relieved they're making up. Encouraging words from Marnix help Nils to get over the jitters which got onto his bowls, yet Hans, Thomas and the other staff models are meticulously prepared for the show. Arne convinces Sara last minute to give an improvised welcome speech, introducing Nils. The show is a hit with the press.

Episode 193

Episode #1.193

Since Nils's fashion show was a success, Présence's future looks viable again, but Alexander still intends to break away. Ellen signs the Danish distribution contract, for the whole collection plus the perfume, only Arne messed up a clause in the haste. Sara gratefully tells Simon he's welcome again, but without a board position, while in fact she's still in love with him but untrusting and jealous. Leon has a more urgent and exciting, yet stressing priority: a heart has become available for a transplant operation within hours, the family joins him for moral support, Simon too, except Heena who accepts to see lover Steven urgently- he proposes, Britt rains on their parade by spilling the truth about Daniel...

Episode 194

Episode #1.194

Thomas and Ann are back on kissing terms, during her lunch break they even get his only pub clients to leave so they can prove sex with love is better then anyone else they had. She tells Jana, who replies she's fallen for Nils. Alexander's lawyer convinces him confession can get him off with a light sentence, provided he shows remorse, and coaches him to cry, then his sister makes up. Leon goes into hospital for his heart surgery, which may take twelve hours, the family waits anxiously. Sara rudely waves Simon's suggestion he or Lieven could help overworked Arne rather then a temp.

Episode 195

Episode #1.195

Sara realizes she can't sleep with another before things are settled with Simon, then learns Ellen never slept with him but blames Arne for misunderstanding it. Steven proves a devoted groom. Marnix accepts to create another wedding dress after Nils offers to have a go. Now Leon's operation has been a success, he finally forgives Simon. Patrick calls America his past, his Flemish family their future, but Lut convinces Ellen a holiday to the places where he lived in the US is a great idea. Thomas kisses Ann, who promises to tell Nils, who already knows. The sales of Niles's collection make Marnix jealous, and eager to defect to Alexander. Martine's therapist explains to Hans and Lut he didn't abuse her, she's locked up in residential psychiatry.

Episode 196

Episode #1.196

Marnix tries to hide his jealousy of Nils's "beginners luck". While Sara still doubts whether Jacb can be her man without getting over Simon, he gets desperately jealous, and reads her diary. Lieven decides to turn down Michele's offer to stay on a bit longer for publicity, hoping they have a future just as a couple, and prevents Sara catching Simon by taking her to dinner. Britt has a pregnancy crisis and considers going to the police; meanwhile Alexander still hesitated to display remorse while confessing his hit and run to the police, it seems to go well when he gathers the courage.

Episode 197

Slotaflevering (final)

Simon reads in Sara's diary she also feels their relationship is unique, and insists to see Lieven in the gym as soon as he has brought her back. Patrick convinces Ellen to take a long holiday to visit the American cities he told her about. Jealous Marnix sneers the glowing revue on Nils's collection and 'sexy' person must be written by his "lover" Jana; the youngsters make it come true while Thomas watches smiling, next invites Ann to move in with him while his parents are 'honeymooning' in America. Alexander learns about Britt's miscarriage, she refuses flowers from the man who 'robbed her of everything' and swears revenge. Lut convinces Hans to visit her former 'rival' Martine in psychiatry. Simon insists he must hear Sara proclaim her love for him; after she cowardly lies to feel nothing for him he quotes from her diary- she rushes off, crying again never to want anything more to do with him, even calls Jan to buy her shares so she can leave Présence altogether. Michèle chooses Lieven and accepts to break up her firm with Jan. At the general assembly Sara makes Arne convene, Simon offers to sell his shares and leave so Sara can stay on and Britt proves Alexander has plans to desert- leaving nobody capable to be CEO, but Simon finally gets Sara to admit their unbreakable love, they accept to lead Présence together, shortly after she accepts his wedding proposal and cancels her shares sale. Alexander persists to split, but Marnix refuses to follow him. Arne's suggestion to merge Ecomoda into Présence is accepted, the marriage announced at Leon's hospital bed, Lieven asked as witness and reinstated as personnel chief. Three months later, Nils delivers his designer dress for the well-attended church wedding...