In Archie's absence, Lexie is determined to run the estate the way her husband would have wished, as the Highland drama continues. But a power struggle develops as Lexie takes on more of the estate's responsibilities, leaving Paul feeling increasingly side-lined. To make matters worse, Lexie is also called upon to take Archie's seat on the board of the local distillery "The Lagganmore Distillery" is in crisis; the young heiress Amanda MacLeish, wants to make savings, much to the chagrin of the head distiller, Gregor. Since she will have the casting vote, Lexie asks for more time to mull over the business dilemma. Meanwhile, the romance between Molly and Andrew blossoms and they start making plans to partition off part of Glenbogle House, so that they can live together as a married couple. But Lexie is increasingly uncomfortable with Andrew's cavalier approach to her home - though her discomfort is nothing comparted with Golly's upset at the new man in Molly's life. Paul is angry that Lexie didn't consult him about the distillery business. Behind her back, he meets Amanda, who convinces him that her plans are right, and he signs the casting vote in favour of her scheme. When Lexie finds out, she is furious - and Paul's plan backfires when the distillery workers go on strike.