In this deeply emotional and character-driven episode of Home and Away, airing Wednesday 24 July, Roo Stewart is forced to confront her past, her principles, and her limits when a familiar but troubled face reappears in Summer Bay. Cohen — once a figure of potential and promise — returns under heartbreaking circumstances: homeless, defeated, and looking for help. But can Roo truly open her heart again, or will past wounds hold her back?
Cohen’s Return Shocks the Bay
When Cohen suddenly reappears in the Bay, it’s clear he’s not the same man who left. Gone is the confident, if somewhat misguided, young man Roo once tried to help. In his place stands someone beaten down by life, exhausted from sleeping rough, and wearing shame like a second skin.
His return doesn’t come with grand apologies or rehearsed speeches — just a simple, painful truth: he has nowhere else to go. And the first person he turns to is Roo.
Roo Torn Between Heart and Head
Roo’s instinct, as always, is to help. Her compassion is part of what makes her such a beloved pillar of the community. But this time, the situation hits differently. Memories of broken promises and trust betrayed come rushing back. She’s not just dealing with a man in need — she’s facing the emotional wreckage of their past.
While part of her yearns to give Cohen shelter, a larger part whispers caution. She’s been burned before, and the cost was high — emotionally, mentally, and within her own home.
Conflicted and restless, Roo turns to Marilyn for guidance. Marilyn listens, then offers gentle but firm advice: “Helping someone isn’t the same as saving them. Only he can do that.”
Alf Lays Down His Opinion — Loud and Clear
Meanwhile, Alf Stewart is far less conflicted. When he hears Cohen is back and asking for help, he’s furious. Alf’s protective instincts kick in immediately — and he’s not shy about expressing them.
“He’s trouble, Roo. You know that,” Alf says sternly. “Don’t let guilt make you blind again.”
Alf’s hardline stance only deepens Roo’s uncertainty. Her father might be harsh, but he’s not wrong. Cohen caused damage the last time he was here. And trust, once broken, isn’t easily repaired.
Cohen Tells His Side
Finally, Roo agrees to speak with Cohen one-on-one. What follows is a raw, emotionally charged conversation in which Cohen reveals the brutal reality of life on the streets — the cold nights, the hunger, the loneliness. He doesn’t ask for pity. Just a chance to start over.
He admits he’s made mistakes. “I lost everything because I didn’t know how to ask for help before,” he confesses. “I’m asking now.”
The moment catches Roo off-guard. Is this the truth? Or another attempt to manipulate her sympathy? Despite everything, she wants to believe him. But trust doesn’t come easily anymore.
A Difficult Decision
After a sleepless night of soul-searching, Roo reaches a decision — one that will divide the Bay. She offers Cohen a place to stay, but on her terms. No drama, no dishonesty, and no second chances if he crosses the line.
“This isn’t charity,” she tells him firmly. “It’s your last shot. You earn this.”
The choice sparks immediate fallout. Marilyn remains quietly wary. Alf is openly furious. He sees Roo’s compassion as naivety — and fears she’s walking straight into another mess.
But Roo stands by her choice, even as doubt lingers in her heart.
Uncertain Roads Ahead
As Cohen settles in, the atmosphere in the Stewart household shifts. Tension runs thick. Trust is fragile. And the whole Bay is watching — waiting to see whether this will be a story of redemption… or just another disappointment.
Has Cohen truly changed? Or is Roo setting herself up for another heartbreak?
Final Thoughts
This episode of Home and Away dives deep into the complexities of second chances and the emotional cost of helping those who’ve hurt us. Roo’s struggle is one many viewers will relate to — that delicate balance between compassion and self-protection.
In the end, her decision says more about her character than Cohen’s. She chooses hope — but with boundaries. Trust — but not blind faith. And love — with limits.
📺 Don’t miss Wednesday’s emotional episode, airing 24 July. Roo’s choice could heal a broken man — or reopen old wounds best left buried.
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