#philmitchell

Monday 17th May 2021

Hello everyone! I realise this post is quite late, I've been working so many hours under the sun recently, I'm finding very little time to sit and make a post. So for the meantime, I'll probably be doing catch up posts, I'll still notify you on any EastEnders news making headlines etc! But before we jump into this week, we need to recap on the happenings of last week's epic episodes following Ben & Callum's wedding. It was eventually revealed that it was actually Kat who Whitney ran Gray's car into. But the main thing that been playing on my mind, and possibly you guys also - that car has now become interest in the hit and run, the police know that the car belongs to Gray, do you think if they do tests on it they'll find some form of DNA from Tina Carter??? Could this be the beginning of Gray's demise?! Of course I'm just speculating, but I'm sure you'll all agree that it's about time that Gray got captured!

Other than this unexpected hit and run, Ben and Callum's wedding went off without a hitch, other than Phil learning about Callum betraying the Mitchell family, but after what's happened to Kat, is Phil going to let this one with Callum slide? Or is he going to make Callum know that he hasn't been forgiven? Oh and speaking of Phil and Kat, it looks as if their relationship is hot gossip, as now Kathy, Linda and Sharon are all aware about their fling. When Phil steps into the ambulance with Kat, he looked genuinely concerned for her - do you think it's possible that he's fallen deeply for Kat?!

Also which has also grabbed my attention is the new, I guess you could call it a promo picture, of Janine's return to Albert Square! It makes it feel much more real now, knowing that she's returning to the Square, as far as I'm aware there has been a lot of gossip with people assuming that Janine could be the one to bring down Gray!! What do you guys think of the new picture?! Are you excited for Janine's return as much as I am? I'm looking forward to hearing your thoughts on this particular subject!

Lastly, before we focus on Monday's episode, another spoiler I have heard is regarding Bernie. We know that Bernadette has offered to be Stuart and Rainie's surrogate as she knows her family are in desperate need for the money on offer. But during a recent episode, a doctor/nurse informed Bernie that for her to have a successful pregnancy, she needs to lose weight. Rainie wasn't best pleased when she learned that Bernie had suffered miscarriage a while back, could it have been due to her weight? However, as much as Bernie is eager to please Stuart and Rainie and help both them out as well as her family, it seems that Bernadette is going to suffer from some kind of eating disorder - could it be bulimia? I happened to notice that  she recently went to throw away a piece of toast but Mitch and Karen stopped her before she could. Could this be the beginning of Bernadette's eating disorder storyline?!

Now focusing on Monday's episode, quite a lot of different things happened, but first I'm going to start off with the happy news that Bailey was finally found safe and well. The Taylor have been completely distraught by her disappearance and being going out of their minds with worry. However, during the last couple of days, unbeknown to them, Amy has been hiding Bailey at the allotments. The one thing that I never really understood is that Amy knew her family we worried sick, so why would she lie to Bailey informing her that her Dad was angry at her for running away, suggesting that she stays away a bit longer. 

But Denise happened to notice Amy's behaviour and become increasingly suspicious of her. Amy has been nicking food from all sorts of different stalls for Bailey, so when Denise catches her out in the street and asking why she's not in school, Amy lies informing her that she's taking part in a chess club during break time. But Denise seems to know her soon-to-be step-daughter all too well, and ends up following Amy and finding both her and Bailey sat in a shed at the allotment. 

I have to be honest, it was a beautiful scene when everyone on the Square began to applaud Bailey's return to the Square, and the way both Bailey and Mitch's faces lit up as they saw one another and she ran into her Dad's arms, it really moved me. It kind of puts it into perspective, sadly some children who disappear or run away from home, some sadly never get found or return home. It's clear to see that everyone is relieved to have Bailey home safe and sound. 

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Sticking with the Taylor's, we need to discuss Bernie. She still hasn't told her family that she has offered to be Rainie and Stuart's surrogate, being seeing them struggle for money is making her more determined than ever to make sure she can lose the weight to be able to carry a baby safely. It seems though that her family isn't the only person she hasn't told - her new girlfriend Molly happens to think that Bernie has a "Friend" who is doing the surrogacy. 

But when Molly happens to mention the future plans she wants to have with Bernie, going on holiday etc etc, Bernie happens to inform her that she couldn't, using the excuse that her family are skint and she can't afford to go anywhere right now. But Bernadette soon comes to realise that she can no longer hide the secret from her new girlfriend and comes clean that it's actually her who's agreed to be a surrogate. Needless to say that Molly is not best pleased with Bernie's decision, claiming that giving away a baby isn't normal. 

But Bernie I think knows more than anyone what it must be like to fall pregnant and then to devastatingly lose it. We know that Bernie's first major storyline on EastEnders was her miscarriage. As the episode progresses, Molly tries to convince Bernadette that being a surrogate is not a good idea, but once Bailey returns home and Bernie overhears her Mum informing the family that even though they may not be rich, it makes them the most strongest and powerful family ever! Feeling her Mum's positive energy and realising her Mum is right, Bernie informs her girlfriend that Bailey ran away because she felt guilty of her family not being able to afford looking after her, but with the money she'll receive from the surrogacy, she'll be able to provide for her family - and in her world, her family comes first, always have and always will! Which kind of means that maybe sadly Bernadette and Molly's brief relationship has come to an end. But as time goes on, will Molly be able to see Bernie's point of view? Will she be able to come round and support her girlfriend's decision? 

However, later when Bernie finds Rainie and informs her about the good news about Bailey returning home safe and well, she informs Rainie that she's going to start herself on the strict diet the following day to make sure she can lose the weight. But devastatingly Rainie reveals the devastating blow that she and Stuart are going to look for another surrogate, as the risk of losing the baby is too high if they were to continue with Bernadette as the surrogate. Leaving Bernie completely and utterly devastated, almost pleading Rainie for her to give her a chance to prove herself. But I feel I can kind of understand Rainie's concern, as she said herself she's not getting any younger, so in her mind, her chance to become a Mum is slowly drifting away from her and with Bernadette having to lose weight, it could take quite a long time, time that Rainie simply doesn't have. I did feel for Bernie, will she able to persuade Rainie to change her mind?

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Elsewhere on the Square, Sharon is having to put up with her brother and the flashy women he keeps bringing back to her apartment. I have to say I thought it was brilliant at the beginning of the episode when Sharon completely embarrassed Zack in front of his lady friend, who happened to stay the night before. She quickly informs Zack that he needs to find a job if he's thinking about sticking around in Walford and suggests that he approaches Ruby at her club. But, as Sharon heads out, it seems that her brother has had more than one lady friend that he's been bringing round to the flat. Sharon is horrified when she notices another lady on the Square wearing her blazer and scarf and demands it back! 

Eventually she bumps into Martin as he returns from home from Kush's funeral. I just have to say that I loved the look of confusion on Martin's face when he's asked about the crash that happened and Sharon informs him that it was Kat - but the fact that Phil has been sat by her bedside every night. It looks as if the news about Kat and Phil's fling/romance is slowly spreading around the Square. But then Sharon also informs him that her brother has arrived on the Square and she's sent him across to Ruby to see if she can give him a job. 

I guess it's hard to tell how Martin is feeling at this point, however as soon as he comes face to face with Ruby and Zack, he really is not pleased with what he's witnessing. Zack is once again back to his old tricks and is horrendously flirting with Ruby. Martin informs him that he is in fact his bosses wife, so he needs to be incredibly careful not to cross the line where his boss is concerned. But Ruby informs her husband that she is glad to have him home and she missed him terribly, which kind of eases Martin's mood, but something tells me that this Zack is going to cause a stir. What do you guys think?

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Finally I have to mention Nancy and Mick, I have to say though, it's been really lovely seeing these two share scenes again, I've really missed that Dad and Daughter bonding from these two. Nancy informs her Dad that if he's still willing to go to the Doctor's appointment then he can still join her. When she pops by the Vic to inform him the time, even though Mick reassures her that he'll be there, Shirley is suspicious to what the two of them are planning/doing and informs her "technically" Granddaughter that Mick needs to focus on writing his victim statement for court and can't have any distractions.

However, even though that of course Nancy wouldn't want to distract her Dad from something as important as his victim statement, but she feels happy that her Dad joined her for the appointment. However, from what I can gather, it looks as if that Nancy is having to wait 12 more months until she can go through with being sterilized, is it something to do with her being the right age? I'm not so sure, I think I missed that bit, however I recall Nancy mentioning that she is old enough to make the decision if she does wants kids at aged 16, but she's not allowed to make the decision if she doesn't want children at the age of 27?! Does she need to be 28 then for them to go through with the sterilization? 

She agrees to wait for the 12 months as she is completely certain that her feelings is not going to change on the matter - however, can I just say? - How much do you guys want to bet now that during these next 12 months, at some point Nancy will find herself pregnant? What will she do if she does??? - But back to the present, she informs her Dad that if she agrees to wait for the next 12 months, she wants to make sure that her Dad promises to do something for her also - read his victim statement aloud in court. She's hoping it'll give him the opportunity for him to have his say - about how everything that happened with Katy truly made him feel! 

As they arrive back on the Square, Mick heads to the Vic and gets his head down to write his victim statement, as Shirley enters and sees her son working away, she questions him whether he wants her to go over it. However Mick informs her that she'll be able to hear it for herself as he's agreed he's going to read it in court. But as Shirley voices her concern, Mick informs her that he's changed his mind about reading his statement - Katy doesn't scare him anymore! Although, unbeknown to them, as Mick is sat inside the pub writing his victim statement, Katy is stood right outside the pub, watching, staring, waiting! What is she doing back in Walford? Shouldn't she be behind bars? If there's going to be court date coming up, surely she's broken the rules of her bail if she's arrived back on the Square? I'm intrigued to see what's going to happen next. I hope Mick doesn't see her, he'll flip his lid! I have to be honest though, I'm looking forward to seeing the court hearing, as hopefully we'll get to see/hear what kind of sentence Katy will get and whether justice has been served!

Friday 22nd January 2021

Hello again everyone! I hope you're all doing okay. I'm really looking forward to writing about this blog, I think this is the moment everyone has been waiting for! The build up to this point has been massive! I'm sure the majority of you know what's happened already, but I truly can't wait to jump right in.

Wow! What an absolutely fantastic episode! Everything has finally come out! Before I even mention the main event, let's focus on Frankie and Katy to start off with. After finally reconnecting with her Dad, in the previous episode Frankie called up her Mum informing her that she wants nothing more to do with her. Tonight, Katy desperately approaches her daughter, claiming that everything she's been told is a lie, however as soon as Frankie mentions she's going to get a DNA test done to prove who her Father is, Katy knows she can no longer hide the truth from her, she admits that Mick is in fact her Dad. Frankie is absolutely disgusted with her Mother, as she's claiming that they were in love. Regardless if that is true or not, the fact she had sexual intercourse with a child, plain and simply makes her a paedophile. Frankie turns and walks away, leaving her Mother crying in the middle of the Square. As she settles back into the Carter household, both Mick and Linda are talking about the excitement to introduce her to the rest of their family, including all her brothers and sister. Even though Frankie questions if they would be happy with that, it looks as if her Mum is still on her mind. Was she really naïve and confused?! Both Linda and Mick fully understand that Katy, at the end of the day, is her Mum and it'll be hard for her to move on knowing what she knows. Frankie pleads for them not to report her to the police, even though she doesn't condone her Mother's actions, she fears it will absolutely destroy her.

This episode also seems to show that it's Phil's birthday, and he's celebrating his 60th! Even though his family have organised a special birthday at home, it's fair to say that Phil has his mind focused on other things.

Which brings us to the main event of the episode! Firstly I just want to say that the performances from both Adam Woodyatt and Letitia Dean were absolutely incredible! They absolutely carried this episode! After realising that Sharon lied to him about Dennis's phone being broken, it seems that Ian is starting to believe that Sharon could be the one behind him being unwell. As Sharon calls him that his dinner is ready, Ian's phone pings notifying him that he's got a voice message, as he hears it - it appears to be the Doctor he visited with Max, he mentions that in regard to his tests there appears to be some cause for concern. It looks as if this brings it all full circle for Ian and he knows that Sharon has been the one behind it all. As his wife calls him to get settled, he sees the lovely meal she's prepared - a beautiful candlelit dinner with a bottle of wine on the table.

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As they get comfortable and Sharon plates up his food, you can see he is watching her every move, wiping her hands on her napkin etc. He attempts to make small talk with his wife, talking about the people they've lost in their lives and how its just those two together now. As he really tries to make conversation, its easy to notice that he's not touched a single piece of food on his plate, not even drunk any wine! He questions her why she had used separate pans to prepare their food, to which she simply explains that she doesn't want to put on any weight, and with Ian being so unwell recently, he needs all the energy he can get. Ian attempts a smile at his wife response, but you can see deep down that he knows something isn't right, he still reluctant to touch his food. Instead of causing a fuss, he suggests to Sharon that they have something else instead and they could reheat this food for another day. Sharon, at this point is visibly getting frustrated, she pleads for her husband to a least take a bite, as she's worked so hard to make it for him. She informs him that she wants to make this night special for him.

It looks as if Ian can't hide his suspicion any longer, out of blue and getting straight to the point he asks his wife "Where's the poison, Sharon? Is it in the wine or the sauce?" - Instantly, Sharon denies any wrong doing, informing her husband that he's gone mad due to his paranoia since his attack. But Ian doesn't believe a word she says as he scoops a fork full of food and directs it in Sharon's direction, informing her to eat it instead. In an attempt to prove a point to her husband, she takes the fork from Ian, knowing full well the poison is in the food, she slowly raises the fork to her lips, but before it can get any closer into her mouth, she takes it away, leaving Ian knowing everything he needs to know. In absolute devastation, he questions his new wife "Why?" - Sharon leaves the table, knowing her plan has been sussed, all you can hear is Ian's pleads of an explanation as to why she tried to poison him. Deep down, part of me thinks "How dare he asks her "Why?"" - but Sharon turns sharply informing him that he knows EXACTLY why she tried to poison him. In response, Ian simply says the name "Dennis!"

It's at this moment that everything comes flooding out, Sharon forces Ian to listen to the voice message her son had left her on the night of the boat crash, instantly they both start crying, floods of tears falling down their faces. (Once again, I have to say fantastic performances from both Adam and Letitia). It's then that Ian attempts to inform his wife that he never killed Dennis, but Sharon doesn't want o hear it and gives him a huge smack across the face, calling him a "Liar!". To be fair, he probably did deserve that slap, but he begs once again to explain everything to Sharon, the full details of what happened that night. All this time, Sharon has believed that Ian locked her son in the room and left him to die, but Ian pleads to her to let him explain. He reveals that he never knew the boat was going to sink, if he had he would never have locked him in in the first place. He explains how Dennis was acting that night and wanted to teach him a lesson for bullying Bobby, however when things started to get more dangerous he realised he had to go back and try and save Dennis. He continues to explain to Sharon that he actually attempted to save her son, recalling that he got him out of the locked room, they went down the corridor with the water rising up to their necks, she recalls there being a loud noise and huge wave came out of nowhere, unfortunately this caused Ian to lose hold of Dennis, even though it was dark he tried to find him but he simply couldn't - very sadly, Dennis got swept under and drowned. Both of them are in floods of tears at this point as everything revolving around how Dennis died comes to light.

Regardless of this Sharon informs her husband that everyone around him hates him, the fact that he had so many suspects out to kill him. She mentions that his children hate him also, how is it fair that Dennis is dead and that Ian gets to live? All her anger and grief once again comes flooding out, attacking Ian with harsh words of truth. Suddenly, Ian seems to agree on everything she's saying. He looks back on his life, how many wives he's had, have any of them really loved him? He's sadly lost two children and his remaining children hate him - to him, it all kind of makes sense, why should he carry on living? This is where things, I thought took an interesting turn - he started actually eating the food placed in front of him, much to Sharon's shock. At first, she questions what he's doing, but when he carries on eating and eating, she shouts that he should eat every bite and die alone. She scurries out of the room, leaving Ian alone eating. However, it looks as if everything gets too much for Sharon, would she really let Ian die, knowing full well his food was poisoned? It looks as if the guilt gets to her, she hurries back upstairs and pushes the plate of food away from him, although he attempts to carry on eating it, she forces him to be sick and bring it all back up. Interestingly, instead of attempting to kill her life-long friend, she does a complete 180 and tries to save him.

After everything that has come to light and Ian bringing up all the poison food, he still desperately tries to apologise to his wife. To be fair, Sharon has never been a killer, if she's wanted someone dead she's always asked someone else to do it for her, or even backed out at the last minute. Something tells me that she thought "Enough is enough!" - both she and Ian have suffered enough due to the circumstances of Dennis's death. Sharon then decides to take off her wedding ring, it's true she never loved Ian. He begs her to put it back on, but she simply says "I've just tried to kill you!" but Ian pleads for her to reconsider and they can work things out. But in all honestly, it's not going to really is it?! After everything they've been through the past few months, how could they ever come back from this? Plus the valid fact that Sharon never loved him and was only doing it to get her revenge. She simply says goodbye and leaves him alone in the Vic.

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While all this has been happening at the Vic, Phil has been waiting urgently to hear news that Sharon has gone ahead and killed Ian. During his birthday celebrations, the doorbell goes and Phil rushes to the door to see Sharon. He asks her straight out whether the job was done, she bows her head and simply states that if he really wants Ian dead, he's going to have to do it himself. Phil looks completely disappointed that she's backed out of their plan, he takes it upon himself to walk directly to the Vic. Without anyone seeing, he sneaks up the stairs, searching every single room for Ian. But he's nowhere to be seen, he's simply disappeared, scarpered, in pure frustration and anger Phil screams Ian's name, as if it could be heard from all over the Square!

The final clip we see is Ian, slowly making his way to the train station. Has Sharon's words really hit home for him? Is he really not wanted by his family? Do his children really hate him to the core? As his phone rings, he doesn't even take a look at it a flings it into the bin. He turns and takes one last look at the Square and heads off to places unknown.

I have to say, this has been one of my favourite episodes! The script writing, the performances from everyone involved was absolutely incredible! EastEnders at it's absolute best! Where has Ian gone? the one thing that comes to my mind now is that people will instantly be asking questions to where Ian has fled? Max? Kathy? Peter and Bobby? Even Phil? People are going to be curious to his disappearance? Will Kathy blame Sharon? What is going to happen between Phil and Sharon now? Honestly, I really can't wait to see the aftermath of this episode, it's going to be really interesting that's for sure. I do have mention though that we have not seen the last of Ian. Adam Woodyatt has simply taken a well deserved break and will be back later in the year! From what I believe, I think there's going to be a massive twist which will see him return, but who knows what that's going to be?!

Thursday 7th January 2021

Good evening everyone! Hope you've all had a good day! I'm thrilled to be back posting another blog tonight! I feel so happy to finally be up to date and catch up to the same point as the rest of you! Just want to take this moment again to thank you all for your on-going support. If there's anyway I can improve my blog, please feel free to send me any suggestions!

Now tonight's episode, oh my goodness - quite a few shock factors I have to say! Firstly I'm going to start with Sonia. Clearly she is still behaving out of sorts, lashing out at people for no reason, and yet still we can see clinging on to a little piece of jewellery. I am still convinced that this necklace or chain has some significance, I'm unsure what, but I feel if we see her continuing to handle it, more will be revealed. During the scene where she's at hospital with Ash, she mentions that she can't recall the last time she had a break or even a decent rest. This makes me think that with Sonia being a nurse, I think the thing that's getting to her so much, must be her job. It's true that the NHS have been working around the clock, day and night, 24/7 to fight this virus. What if EastEnders have decided to show us how it must be for some of the people working for the NHS and how much pressure they've been under to fight the virus and how it's has affected them? Physically? Emotionally? Mentally? I feel that this could be Sonia's big story, being a nurse and fighting off Covid-19. It would make sense really, what do you guys think?! Could Sonia be in such a big bubble that she feels no one understands the pressure she's under, how many people she's seen die due to the pandemic? It could very distressing but a very vital and important to show!

Secondly, I want to mention Sharon. She is still putting on a huge front to everyone on the Square, more importantly to Kathy, that she's actually in love with Ian and their marriage is for real. I do feel for Sharon but I do also feel that she's going way in above her head. There are many ways in which she could get revenge on Ian, marry him and take him for every penny he has, not really needing to poison the man. When she finds Kathy approaching Gray for some legal advice, she informs her and everyone else that she and Ian are going to be celebrating their marriage/wedding with a party at the Vic, so everyone can see how committed they are. Even though this is part of her plan, I truly don't know how long she'll be able to put up with it. There is only so much she can take, surely? I mean - Kathy even mentioned whether they had actually consummated the marriage, for some reason I do think that Sharon is going to have to act upon that, just show she'll be able to carry on with her plan and prove their marriage is real, even though she'll hate every single minute of it! But I do feel what she did in tonight's episode was a huge step too far, after realising she was running low of pills to give to Ian, she did the desperate act and approached Jean, using the excuses that she needed tinsel for her upcoming party. Only as soon as Jean was out of the room, she rummaged in the poor woman's handbag and nicked, what I'm assuming was, Jean's bipolar medication. This is going to look awful, not just on Sharon, but also for Jean and the Slater's. What if Jean notices her medication is missing? Or even Stacey? Could it cause Jean to go on a downward spiral? Who knows? I do fear that Sharon's actions could have some serious repercussions for an innocent party.

Thirdly, let's talk about Martin, Ruby and Kush! After being kicked out of the Slater household, Kush is now living with Martin and Ruby. Even though he has no where else to stay, Kush is only staying there because he threatened Ruby by telling her that he'd reveal her involvement in his set up to flee Walford with Arthur. It appears to be the morning after and Martin still isn't interesting in forgiving his best mate. As Martin leaves the room, Kush sits down with Ruby and they begin to talk about Martin, Ruby still hasn't told her husband about her involvement but she seems to feel that Martin isn't talking to her like the way he should, he always seems to be going to Stacey for advice and to talk about things. Kush tries to console Ruby by telling her that Martin is a good Dad, and with Stacey being the mother of his kids, she has to accept the fact that she'll be a part of his life forever, with Ruby looking solemn he makes the very important statement that Martin lives for his kids. It looks as if these words seem to play on Ruby's mind. Meanwhile, while Ruby and Kush are having their discussion, Martin has caught up with Stacey in the Cafe, she openly admits that she understands Kush's actions, however this does not mean that she's forgiven him. Martin is completely surprised by her attitude towards it all, he seemed to expected her to be livid, but she voices her understanding that people do crazy things when they panic, they don't think straight and attempt to do a runner - was Kush acting the same way anyone else would? Stacey's words play on Martin's mind and later he finds his wife at her club, he admits to her that she was right about Kush and that he should forgive his friend. However when he admits that he had spoken to Stacey about it, it upsets Ruby as she begins to feel that her husband doesn't listen to her, as she states that she said the exact same thing that Stacey had told him. Martin seems to think that her wife is jealous or maybe a bit insecure, she questions him whether he actually does love her - he tries to reassure her that he does love her and that his ex's (Stacey and Sonia) are just good friends, plus the very important fact is that they're mother's to his children. BUT THEN - Ruby drops the huge bombshell that she's pregnant! "So am I!" she claims! Leaving Martin looking confused and, honestly, not at all excited! When he asks her if she's truly pregnant, she subtly nods her head. BIG RED FLAG GOING UP!!! I'm telling you all now, she IS NOT pregnant! This will be her plan in an attempt to keep hold of her husband and grasp the attention from him that she so desperately wants, plus it'll also be an attempt to keep him away from Stacey! Only, with this being a lie - this may mean she'll have to become pregnant really quickly, otherwise he'll soon find out she's lying. Will she trick him into sleeping with her? Or could she even blackmail someone else to get her pregnant? Kush maybe?! Ooooo this is going to be a dramatic one I can see it coming!!

The next thing I want to mention is Katy and Frankie! First I just want to say how great it is to see Frankie back! It's been a while since she's been in the soap, I'm hoping now she's back and everything's been revealed, I hope she'll come to realise the truth about her Mum and go and be there for Mick! Will Linda learn to accept her? Could she become a part of the Carter family? Who knows? Either way, I'd love to see her remain in the soap! I think it's a bit unsure as to where Frankie has been, it's clear she hasn't been living with her Mum, and she certainly hasn't been in Walford, where actually has she been?! I think it's very clear and obvious to say that Katy has been completely on edge after Mick confronted her about her abuse towards him. Did Katy reach out to her daughter in pure panic? Making her believe that she has a better chance at life if she was to go to Australia and work in a bar with her God-Mother? Of course, we can tell straight away that it's an attempt to get rid of her daughter before she finds out the awful truth! Only it looks as if Frankie can smell a rat from a mile off, I truly don't think she trusts her Mother - after even having her suspicions about Mick, something mustn't feel right, surely?! The only thing I found pretty impressive in these scenes was the sign language used, even though Mick and Tina never used sign language in front of Frankie (probably because they don't know how) - but Simone Lahbib must've learned how to use sign language for those specific scenes. It's not every day that sign language is shown in a soap, I particularly was impressed with that!

Finally we need to save the best part till last! Patrick! Oh Patrick!!! I want to say how much I've enjoyed seeing so many scenes involving Patrick over the past couple of episodes. It's so nice to see him at the front for a change, Rudolph Walker is an absolutely brilliant actor and EastEnders are so lucky to have him!! The scenes between Patrick and Phil were fantastic, two characters we hardly get to see share a scene together, I have to say I enjoyed every minute of them! We need more of that! Don't you think? I do feel for Patrick, he's trying to keep everybody happy and safe, even though he's going behind Denise's back and letting Phil see Raymond, he's clearly only doing that because Phil promised to keep them safe from Lucas - so I guess it's fair to say that he was stuck in the middle of doing right for both parties. I did feel for him when Denise learnt the truth about him going behind her back, he was clearly devastated as she announced that she felt he betrayed her and her trust. Earlier in the episode when Phil took Raymond out for a kick about, Patrick was getting himself worked up, informing Phil that they should make their way back to the Square, only he suddenly had a bit of shock and had to sit himself down, it look like he had some kind of pain or scare of some kind? Only when Lucas appeared as his front door and barged his way in, Patrick was confronting the murderer, when suddenly he collapsed right in front of him. At first I thought it might've been a heart attack? But then I remembered, a couple of years back Patrick suffered a horrendous stroke and it took him months to learn how to walk and talk again. For a split moment, I thought Lucas was going to help - we know Lucas is evil but could he really stoop so low in letting an old man die right in front of him?! The episode ended with him hesitating to call an ambulance!

Thursday 26th November 2020

Hello again everyone! I feel like I'm on a roll when it comes to these blog posts, I think I've done one a day this week, just to make sure I'll catch up! I am back in work tomorrow, so that will mean Friday's episode will be up on Monday, but from then on I'm sure I'll be completely up to date!  I'm really looking forward to seeing what the next few episodes have in store for us!

Anyway, let's get started, the episode begins a the Mitchell household, as Callum, Phil and Ben gathered having breakfast, Ben appears to be looking over some kind of magazine, he seems a little bit irritable and shows his Dad in the magazine that someone has sold a car (the one Kush couldn't get away from the robbery in) and got a decent amount from it! Phil doesn't seem phased, but it seems to upset Ben that that part of the money would've made a huge difference for them all. Phil tells his son to try and forget about it, it's not worth him getting wound up over, it's better that he remains positive that he hasn't been caught by police and sitting in a jail cell. As Phil leaves the room, Callum kind of says the same thing to his boyfriend, he questions why he can't simply just let it go like his Dad also has, but Ben is adamant that he can't simply let things go, considering he knows that someone grassed their family up, and he wants to find out who! Oooo will Callum let on to what he knows? I feel like he's already got a guilty conscience right now, how much more will he be able to take?!

Out on the Square, Tina is heading out, as she leaves the Atkins household Gray seems to stop her in her tracks, I'm unsure how to look at this scene, is Gray maybe checking up on her, making sure she's leaving the house spotless? She reassures him that she's left the house looking clean and tidy and there shouldn't be anything out of place. As they go their separate ways, Tina catches up with Shirley and realises she's bought the morning paper, Tina seems pretty eager to see what's been mentioned in it. However when she sees the front page, she devastated to see that her story hasn't even made the headline, but what's an even bigger blow, is when Shirley turns a few pages, a headline appears which reads - "Councillor Beale Is Hailed A Hero For Exposing Corrupt Landlord!" - Tina is even more devastated to realise that her story has been completely and utterly twisted! But then, how the hell is Suki going to react when she sees the news headline?

Meanwhile, at the Cafe, Whitney, Stacey and Kat are all gathered around the table and the topic of subject of course is Kush. They are all completely aware that Kush is still hiding in Whitney's attic, however Stacey reveals that she keeps getting approached by Martin who's continuously asking questions about his best mate, but of course Stacey isn't letting anything slip and telling him nothing. Whitney is still concerned that Kush will be up in her attic when Sonia comes home, she questions Kat whether Kush has thought about handing himself in to the police, but surely that would be the worst idea? It's then that Kat reveals to them both that Kush has suggested that he does a runner, and has asked her to go with him, that way they would be able to have a fresh start. It appears to be a bit of shock for Stacey and Whitney - will Kat really go through with Kush's idea and leave the children behind?!

At the Carter household, Mick seems to be in a world of his own as he's cooking some breakfast. The pan is sizzling with the egg and bacon inside it, but Mick doesn't appear to be paying attention to what's happening in front of him, it looks as if his mind is completely focused on something else. Linda enters the room and manages to snap Mick out of his daze. As he brings himself back down to Earth he notices that his wife is holding another costume, she appears a bit doubtful of herself at first, saying that her business idea might not even win the Lucy Beale Award, but as soon as she mention's Max's name - Mick is quick to support his wife, informing her that she should go for the Award and she should post her new ideas online early to get more attention. Linda is surprised but yet very flattered and excited by her husband's idea and she excitedly hurries to find Ollie.

Returning to the Cafe, Peter approaches his Gran and brother, mentioning that their Dad has been mentioned in the local newspaper, mentioning that he's been accepting bribes off Suki. However Kathy is quick to defend her son and acknowledges that the news article claims that Ian refused her bribe, but something doesn't sit right with Peter - why would their Dad turn down money?! As everyone knows, money is one of the main things that Ian is obsessed with. Bobby tries his best to stick up for his Dad, but as soon he speaks his opinion, Peter turns away - as if he doesn't even want to listen to what his brother is saying. Kathy notices the tension in the room between them and she scolds Peter for ignoring his brother, Bobby tries to go after him, but has no luck in grabbing his attention. Meanwhile at the other side of the Cafe, (Can I just say how much I like the new layout of the Cafe, obviously they've done it due to Covid, but I think it looks a lot more posher inside now, I hope they'll keep it that way!) Shirley and Tina are sat together reading over the news article in the paper and discussing how Ian has managed to get away with his actions yet again, it's then that Shirley suggests whether Kathy knows something, she has seemed to noticed that the rest of the Beale family haven't seen eye-to-eye with Ian in recent weeks. She knows full well that she and Ian aren't talking, could it have something to do with the story, but Tina is insistent that that has nothing to do with it, Shirley questions her sister whether she knows something - I'm sure you guys will remember that Kathy drunkenly revealed to Tina about Ian forging her signature and re-mortgaging the Cafe, will Tina perhaps take it upon herself to reveal that story?!

Meanwhile, at the Vic, Ian is also reading the article about himself, as he makes his way into the kitchen, he finds Callum sat at the kitchen table waiting for him. He seems surprised to see him there and he begins to question whether he's there to talk to him about the article, however Callum drops the bombshell that he knows it was him who grassed Phil and Ben up to the police. Ian is backed into a corner, he questions whether the call was meant to be anonymous, but when Callum reveals that he heard the recording, to him it was blatantly obvious as to who the identity was. He informs Ian that both Phil and Ben have no idea that it was him. Now the conversation takes an interesting turn, part of me was going thinking that maybe Callum would be able to somehow convince Ian not to say anything to police - or something (I'm not too sure) but instead he appears to be asking Ian to go up against Phil and have a word with his DI! Ian is adamant he wants nothing to do with it, he doesn't want his name being brought up in the situation, regardless whether the police are so eager to nail Phil, it may mean more trouble for him also if Phil finds out it was him that grassed them up?!

Returning back outside on the Square, Kat sees Phil and Gray having a quick discussion. As Phil leaves the conversation and Gray gets onto the phone, Kat approaches Phil once again, demanding that she gets her share of the money, also repeating herself that even though the idea didn't go to plan, everything was her idea. Finally it looks like Phil agrees to give her her share (Is he just bluffing though?!) he asks her to pop round later in the day and he reveals he's been given a good price for the stolen vehicles. Kat is surprised to realise that Gray is the one who's doing all the paperwork, pricing and selling for Phil. Something is also is making me think, what is Gray getting out of it? It's not like him to do a dodgy deal for Phil, is maybe because he's helping Shirley out, who has become a good friend of his? Who knows?!

Back at the Carter household, Linda is trying to persuade little Ollie to try on another superhero costume, although the little boy seems reluctant as the costume happens to have a little stain on it. At first, Mick is supportive and trying to softly coax the little boy into putting the outfit on, however as Linda continues to keep badgering Ollie, Mick seems to lose his temper with her. He makes the valid point that regardless of her new business idea, Ollie is a little boy, their son, not a prop! He takes the little boy downstairs and Linda is left baffled by her husband's outburst. She grabs her phone and dials a number - one guess as to who she's calling - Max?!

At the restaurant, Callum has arranged to meet up with his brother, Stuart. As Callum sits himself down, Stuart is looking incredibly happy. He asks his brother whether he can keep a secret, without being obvious and giving out too much information, Callum comments that that's just what he's been doing recently, hiding nothing but secrets. Stuart looks as him in confusion, but his brother assures him it's nothing worry about. Stuart then decides to drop his secret onto his brother and reveals that hopefully in time, Callum could become an Uncle again. At first, Callum seems confused - how "in time" will he becoming an Uncle again? If Rainie isn't pregnant and Stuart hasn't slept with someone else? Stuart reveals that that part is the secret, but assures him things will come to light in due course. He tries to persuade his brother that he hasn't cheated on his wife and he isn't in any trouble, but then Callum drops the bombshell to his brother that in actual fact, he is the one who's in trouble. Will he actually tell his older brother what's been going on? Will he actually reveal that someone is making his life a misery if he doesn't do something?!

Back out on the Square, Peter as walking down the street as Kheerat approaches him as the cross ways. Kheerat happens to warn Peter on his old man being very careful when it comes to namedropping people in news articles. Peter tries to convince Kheerat that he has nothing to do with his Dad, but in Kheerat's eyes, they both share the same name, which means that they're all as bad as each other. As they go their separate ways, Kathy watches from the Minute Mart as Peter walks in, acknowledging that he's also having a row with Kheerat as well as having one with his younger brother. Peter then reveals that he's currently ignoring Bobby, Kathy tries to console her Grandson, she explains that Bobby has been through so much since his return to the Square, and he's literally been trying his best to make up for everything he's done, even though nothing would be able to bring Lucy back, he's trying. Once again she explains to him that Bobby looks up to Peter, his opinions and thoughts mean more to him than anyone else's. She tries to persuade him not to push him away, as one day she's sure that he'll need Bobby as much he needs him right now.

Returning to the restaurant, it looks as if Callum has revealed everything to his brother. He explains as he's literally being torn apart by his DI trying to get his hands on Phil, but then also wanting to be able to be a part of the Mitchell family with Ben and Phil. It seems that in his heart, Callum can no longer go through with this, he needs to put it to an end somehow. Stuart states that there is nothing on file at the moment in time, the DI is only using Callum to get to Phil, he suggests if he wants to remain loyal to his boyfriend and his Dad, he needs retrace his steps and get rid of anything that may cause their arrest. Once he's done that, they can focus on DI Thompson.

The next scene shows Kat visiting Kush in the attic, explaining that Gray has come to see him. Kush seems shocked to hear that Gray is there to see him, considering he's a type of solicitor. However, when Kat reveals that it was Gray who managed to sell on the vehicles for Phil, it gives Kush and bit more of a relief that Kush knows exactly what has happened and agrees to talk to him. As he makes his way downstairs and they all gather in the kitchen, making sure that Kush can't be seen from any police waiting outside. Gray reveals that with the current situation Kush has found himself in, he could be looking at 5 years in prison! Considering he already has a charge of GBH from early on in the year, to add this crime on top would just make things a hell of a lot worse for him. He apologises that there's nothing more he can do, leaving Kush and Kat devastated that they could be looking at time inside. As Gray leaves the room, Kush feels that their only option now is to do a runner, sooner rather than later. As soon as he urges Kat to along with him, she stops him in his tracks and states that basically HE hasn't got a choice, not her. What is she saying? Will she end up running away with Kush or stay to be with her children?!

Returning to the Beale household, Bobby is once again scrubbing his hands aggressively and counting as he does so, Peter enters the house and finds him washing his hands again. It looks as if what his Gran has said has made perfect sense to Peter, he reveals that he doesn't want Bobby to torture or punish himself any longer, he's suffered enough over the past few years. He admits that Bobby was just a child when he killed Lucy, and that his actions were in fact an accident, the thing that really screwed everything up was everything that happened afterwards. All the lies surrounding the family and the extent they went through to cover everything up. Bobby can't believe what his brother is saying, its a look of shock, confusion, relief, he admits that he's been waiting for his brother to say this for a very long time. It's then that Peter happens to mention their Dad and Jane (Oh I wish Jane would come back one day!) should've done more to protect and look after him, he then asks a really interesting question - "We know who's really to blame?!" - Is he meaning their Dad???!!!

Meanwhile, Mick and Linda appear to be in their car, pulling up in a car parking lot. This scene really worried me. Linda is speaking to her husband, asking why he never told her the truth about what he got up to whilst visiting Lee. Ahh so it was Lee she called up earlier! She reveals that instead of being mugged, he was actually in brawl at a bar. Mick then reveals that the men he fought with were flaunting over a young girl who appeared to be half their age, he admits he just lashed out as they should've known better. Ah! So everything is making sense! He lashed out at them because he's STILL realising what happened to him during his childhood. Linda begs her husband that in future, if he ends up bottling everything up, he needs to talk to someone - whether it'll be her, Tina or Shirley, she asks him to promise her he'll speak to someone. Mick is quiet as Linda pleads to him, he simply responds with a "Yea!" - Linda then gets out of the car to do their shopping. As she walks away, Mick is left alone in the car, however this is where things are looking really dark for Mick. He watches his wife walk away in the rear-view mirror, then his attention is brought to the brick wall which is placed a few yards in front of him. Suddenly he looks dreary, he looks sad, he brings his foot to the car's accelerator and begins to rev the engine slowly. He places his hand against the steering wheel and his eyes are focused on the brick wall ahead. Tears enter his eyes as he revs the engine more repetitively and loudly, suddenly it looks as if he darts straight towards the wall - BUT Linda appears out of no where and grabs the shopping bags from the car. Had he simply been debating whether to commit suicide? With everything that's going on in his personal life right, is he really feeling so low that he simply can't find a way out or a way to cope that he wants to end his life?! If he's seriously having suicidal thoughts, he needs to tell someone, he NEEDS to tell someone what's happening, what's been going on, otherwise these terrible, horrendous, suicide thoughts are going to get worse and possibly get a lot more reoccurring.  

The final scene of this episode is bloody nail biting!!! Phil finds Ben in the Arches he's asking him to give him the keys to a certain vehicle he can pass on to somebody. Ben throws him a set of keys and they discuss getting something for lunch. When Ben leaves the Arches, with the door slightly open, with both Phil and Ben out of sight, Callum finds his chance to sneak into the Arches to remove the recorder. As he makes his way inside, he slowly goes to grab it from under the table, however he hears Phil calling Ben from outside, it looks as if Callum slightly panics and hides in the sink hole in the Arches, as he does so he leaves a mess on the floor. As Phil enters the building, having realised that Ben gave him the wrong set of keys, he notices all the paperwork that has fallen on the floor, as he begins to pick it up - Callum watches nervously, however when gets all the pieces together, he slightly looks up and notices the recorder which has been bugged underneath the table, he simply removes it and Callum is left devastated - realising that Phil is going to be asking some really serious questions.

How the hell is Callum going to dodge his way out of this one? I mean, part of me is thinking that that scene could've gone so many different ways. He's earned Phil's trust, so why would he attempt to hide? What would it matter if Phil found him in the Arches, Callum could've easily said he was looking for Ben? Also Callum could also prove his loyalty to Phil and Ben and possibly coming clean but then maybe destroying or getting rid of the recorder?! What do you guys think? What is going to happen now Phil has found the recorder? How his Callum going to explain this?

Thursday 19th November 2020

Hello again everyone, my apologise for being so late at putting this post up, once again this weekend I have been away from my TV and my laptop/computer that I've not had chance to watch EastEnders up until now. This post will be reviewing from where I left off and will be following Thursday's episode. I'm hoping through-out this week I'll be able to catch up before next week. Let's not waste any time and get stuck in.

The episode begins pretty much where the last episode cut off, Callum has caught up with Kush after he legged it away from police after being confronted about the robbery. Kush is begging for Callum to let him go, even threatening the fact that if he doesn't let him leave, he will drop both Ben and Phil in on it. Callum looks as if he's battling so many demons, he's clearly battling to either follow his role as a police officer or follow his heart and protect his boyfriend. As DI Thompson calls in on Callum's radio, Callum informs him that he has located Kush, Callum is then under strict instructions to not let him leave the building. But Kush eventually realises that Callum knew that Ben and Phil were taking part in this burglary, and that's why Ben got away so quickly, Callum informed him some how. Kush once again tells Callum to move aside, it looks as if Callum hasn't really got a choice as he reluctantly steps to one side to let him pass. As Kush begins to make his final escape, he turns back to Callum and punches him right in the face, and informs him that it has to look convincing. If the police find out that Callum let him go purposely, he will be in big trouble, at least this way it will look like Kush fought his way out.

Returning to the Square, Kim is making herself at home. I have to say it so nice to see her back on the Square, I have been so excited for her return. She's happily informing both Jack and Denise about her tours and how successful she was during her time in Scotland. However as much as they're having to listen to Kim's stories, Jack notices the huge elephant in the room that Denise hasn't yet informed her sister about young Raymond. As Jack makes an excuse to leave so it'll be able to give Denise some time and space to update her sister on recent events, little Raymond makes his way through the living room door. As Denise starts to make a fuss over the young boy, Kim is instantly interested in finding out who the little stranger is, she questions who he is and it's then Denise informs her sister that he is in fact her nephew. Kim's face is in absolute shock!

Meanwhile, back at the Mitchell household, it looks as if Ben and Shirley are waiting nervously for Kat and Phil's return. They suddenly hear commotion coming through the hall when finally they both walk in, but Ben instantly notices that Kush isn't with them. As they continue to argue about Kush, Ben asks the very important question, "Where is Kush?" it's then Phil mentions that he got left behind and has most likely ended up getting arrested. It looks as if Kat is beginning to feel guilty for leaving him there, but as Phil begins to panic about whether Kush will grass them all up to the police, Kat is adamant that Kush wouldn't do that. It's clear to see that everyone is feeling nervous and anxious about what's happened. they're panicking as to what has happened to Kush and also what is going to happen next. Will they have gotten away with this?! Kat informs Phil that if it wasn't for her, he wouldn't have known about the job and not earned a big amount of money, but Phil is quick to insult her and Kush, considering that Shirley drops the information that Kush has a gambling problem. It all comes clear to Phil that Kush wanted to take part in this job for the buzz and the adrenaline of it. As tempers heat, Shirley suggests that Kat waits at home for Kush and for any updates or news on his whereabouts, while they go and show their faces in the Vic. They begin to speculate how the police knew they were there, and possibly who it was who told them, they rule out both Kush and Kat as they all know they wouldn't have gone through with it, just to end up being arrested, but then Shirley named Callum and both Ben and Phil are quick to defend him, informing her that regardless of working for the police, they believe he is completely on their side.

However as they're making this assumption, Callum is heading back to his employees and co-workers. As he stands behind a wall, he overhears them discussing who the potential suspects could be, as DI Thompson is asking for a description of the individuals they saw, they admit that Callum was the officer who had clearer view. Does his DI Thompson know that Callum didn't chase after the car?! Honestly, I'm really interested to see how Callum will worm his way out of this one. Will anyone believe him when he says he didn't see anything?! Something tells me it's going to take a lot of work to convince DI Thompson. Meanwhile, back at the Slater household, Kat has returned home and is eager to get in contact with Kush. She's sat with Stacey as she attempts to call him, but fails to get an answer. Stacey appears to be worrying as she's voices whether Kush has been caught by the police or not, however Kat is quick to defend him and informs her that she still has faith and trust in her boyfriend. But then Stacey feels like she has no choice but to show Kat what she's found, she passes her the laptop and shows her the screen showing all of Kush's gambling information. What is Kat going to do now after he promised her he'd stop?!

At the Vic, Ian is once again going over paperwork for the building, Sharon pops her head from around the corner asking him whether he's okay with paying for the gas and electricity bill. Ian reassures her that he'll sort it. Just then, Ben, Phil and Shirley enter their way into the pub. Ian is visibly surprised to see them, (as of course he was the one who called the police on them, was he expecting them to be arrested?!) - Ian tells Sharon that he will serve them to which Ben sarcastically responds by asking whether it was his attempt of apologising for his actions. However, as he pours his brother a drink, he does admit that earlier in the day they both said things to each other that they didn't mean, but is he really trying to make amends? Or is he simply feeling guilty for grassing up his brother?!

Back at at the Fox's household, Kim is looking livid after finding out about Raymond. It's clear she's feeling devastated that her sister hadn't at least phoned her up to tell her about her recent news. Denise walks in and tries to explain that she was going wait until Raymond had had his therapy and wait for him to feel more settled in before she informed her sister, as she worried it would've been a bit too much for the young boy. Kim is more upset about the fact that Denise had pretty much told everyone except her, which is understandable. As Jack makes his way into the living room, he informs them that Raymond has managed to fall asleep, as he makes his way to leave and give some Kim and Denise some space, Kim voices how frustrated she is about not being able to hold him as a baby after her sister decided to give him up in the first place, but this outburst causes Jack to stop in his tracks and defend Denise. He informs Kim how much Denise has had to sacrifice and how much they have all been through after Raymond came back into her life. Kim seems visibly speechless, Denise thanks Jack for sticking up for her but assures him that everything will be okay if she has time to speak to Kim alone. As Jack leaves the room, Kim apologises for her outburst and admits it was just the shock of it all, eventually she seems a lot more calmer and a lot more cheerful, she reveals she's looking forward to getting to know the young boy, once he feels ready to meet his Auntie. She tries persuade Denise to go after Jack whilst she stays at home and babysits, it's then Denise drops the other bombshell that she and Jack have in fact split up. Do you think Kim might persuade Denise to get back with Jack?!

Back at the Vic, the Mitchells are making themselves cosy and enjoying drinks and a game of darts. Attempting to put on the impression that they've not been up to anything suspicious at all. Only suddenly, DI Thompson enters the Vic as eyes are straight for Ben as he's sat in a booth. Shirley also clocks on to his presence and quickly notifies Phil, subtly. The next few moments had me worried and yet really surprised - DI Thompson then clocks Phil and makes his way to confront him, as he's informing Phil about a supposed car burglary that a known neighbour was caught taking part in, Phil plays dumb and informs the Detective that he knows nothing about the robbery but informs him that he'll keep his ear to the ground if he hears of anything. However, Thompson is quick to mention that he's certain he saw Phil at the scene, even though he has no proof. Phil is quick to question whether he's actually being arrested otherwise he'll have the Detective done for harassment. However, whilst all this confrontation is going on, Sharon is watching discreetly from behind the bar - as Thompson begins to announce Phil's arrest, Sharon is quick to stop him in his tracks, informing Thompson that he's actually wasting his time and breath and quickly makes up a lie that in fact Phil was upstairs in the Vic baby-sitting for her. Now the big question for me is - why would she do that for Phil?! Why would she lie and pretend to be an alibi for him? Is she out to get something in return? Will this be her way of getting something from him through their divorce?! If she becomes his alibi she'll surely want something in return?! As Sharon informs the Detective, he's clearly shocked to hear this information and questions Sharon whether she'd be willing to testify in court if it actually came to that point, which she admitted she would gladly do so. As DI Thompson leaves the Vic, Sharon pulls Phil into the back of the pub for a private word.

Returning to Denise and Kim (I have to be honest, I am loving these scenes with Kim now she's back, and can I also mention how much I love her new hairstyle and colour!) Kim is surprised to hear that is was actually Jack who called their relationship off. But I'm not sure not just Kim, but everyone, can see that Jack is still besotted with Denise and that there is still something there between them. Even the way he stood up to Kim and defended Denise, plus considering the fact he's also paying for Raymond's therapy - and he just wants to keep things between him and Denise as "Friends!" - She explains that Denise needs to make sure she wins Jack back before he gets with somebody else, it's clear that they both have feelings for each other. Kim also makes a very valid point - Raymond - even he can see it. After everything the little boy has been through, he needs stability and a good family unit around him, of course he'll have his Auntie Denise and Patrick, Sheree and Isaac, but maybe Jack and Denise could be exactly what he needs also. She points out the small drawing that young Raymond had done of Denise and Jack and Denise looks at it softly. I do think that Kim is right, I'm hoping Denise will take her sister's advice and try and persuade Jack to rekindle their romance.

Back at the Vic, Ian - of course - is trying to listen in on Phil and Sharon's private conversation. He is stood at the bottom of the stairs whilst Phil and Sharon are on the floor above. Suddenly, Bobby finds his Father behind the Vic and its looking as if the teenager is looking for some parental advice about his charity for his sister. He informs his Dad that he's increasing the age of entries for the award he's giving out, he admits that both Peter and Kathy agree that it's a good idea. I do feel sorry for Bobby at the minute, as for the past couple of weeks, it's as if Ian has showed no interest in his son's charity work for his deceased sister. If he actually was a supportive Dad, he'd do everything in his power to help his son set it up and pull it all off, especially considering he has a lot of business experience. However, instead of listening to his son, Ian seems more interested to what is happening upstairs. He informs Bobby that he'll listen to his ideas another time and heads on upstairs to see what's going on between Phil and Sharon, once again, leaving Bobby extremely disappointed.

(In all honesty, it wouldn't surprise me if it turns out to be Bobby who attacks his Dad at Christmas! #Spoiler)

Back at the Slater's, Kat and Stacey are debating about Kush once again. At first it looks as if Stacey has had enough with Kush and is complaining to her cousin, but as the conversation goes on, it looks as if she's trying to explain to Kat that her boyfriend is in fact an addict. Okay, he may not be addicted to alcohol or drugs, but in hindsight, it's the same thing. He gets a sense of excitement, a buzz, an adrenaline rush whilst gambling, and that is what he's addicted to. Stacey tries her absolute best to explain that everyone has their highs and lows, Kush knows that his addiction has caused so much trouble. Even though Kat is convinced that Kush can give it up whenever he wants, Stacey's not so sure. It's true that Kush may need a little bit of help to overcome his gambling addiction, but he needs to acknowledge that he actually has a problem - Stacey tries to compare it to her bipolar disorder, in the best way to describe to her cousin that everyone's brains are wired differently and there have been so many times when she's been told to just "Snap out of it!" or "Pull yourself together!" - it must be the same for Kush, it's when she mentions this that Kat seems to realise what she's saying. Suddenly they're interrupted by a knock on the front door, Callum's voice can be heard from the hallway and Stacey brings him in. As they enter the kitchen, Kat begins to thank Callum for not dobbing them into the police, unaware that Callum has come with a fellow officer. Suddenly Callum announces that they're looking for Kush as they believe he has something to do with a robbery. Kat and Stacey are quick to defend Kush, informing them that they must have the wrong man, as he wouldn't do something like that. When Callum questions Kat that the robbery took place at a building she works in, she also plays dumb and admits that she's just the cleaner and knows nothing about a burglary. Callum then informs him that if they do hear from Kush, he'll need to get in contact with them urgently.

Returning to the Vic, Ian is STILL trying to ear-wig on Phil and Sharon's conversation. - (How much do you want to bet that he's going to walk in on them kissing or something?!) - As he makes his way into the kitchen, we can see that Sharon and Phil are sat at a table together on opposite ends of the table, needless to say the atmosphere is slightly awkward and yet very silent. Phil announces that his solicitor will be in touch with her and he leaves the room. Ian closes the door behind him and is absolutely dumbfounded with his friend, he questions her actions on giving him a false alibi. Something tells me that they have come up with a mutual agreement, I'm guessing that Sharon has offered Phil an alibi in return for something else - but what?! What have they agreed on? Sharon reveals that the only reason she's given him an alibi was to smooth things over with their divorce. But Ian can't seem to understand why, why would she even care?! He even mentions that she could go prison. But she makes a very interesting point - the only way she would go to prison is if someone let on that it was a lie, now this is where Ian is caught in the middle now really isn't he? - He was the one who called the police, but now it looks as if he didn't expect his childhood friend to give his enemy a false alibi - it seems that if Ian was to tell the police the truth, then he wouldn't just cause Phil to go to prison, but Sharon too. I'm sure he wouldn't do that to his closest friend - would he?!

As Shirley leaves the Vic, she slowly makes her way back to the Atkins household where she's currently staying. As she makes her way up the stairs, she interrupted by a weepy Tina. She tells her to go back home and make things up with her housemates and she'll call her in the morning. However, Tina is teary as she informs her sister that she's been made to move out of the house and she now has no where else to go. Shirley consoles with her younger sister and invites her inside.

On the other side of the Square, Denise has decided to pay Jack a visit. Honestly, this scene also surprised me. I was kind of expecting Denise and Jack and to fall into each other's arms and agree to bring up little Raymond together as a family. However, Denise is quick to tell Jack that they both know that they don't see each other as mates. They mean something far much more to each other right now. Denise then confesses that she actually does love him. Jack seems really happy at her revelation, but just as he's about to embrace her, Denise then drops the bombshell that, for things to be easier for her, himself and little Raymond, maybe it would be best if Jack kept his distance and stays away. Understandably, she's trying to do it for Raymond, as the young boy needs stability. Jack appears absolutely devastated as she passes him the money back that he gave her. He pleads to her for not things to be this way, but even Denise asks him to look her in the eye and say that they're not just mates, because they both know that deep down, they both mean something to one another, they both have feelings for each other - does Jack love Denise in return?! As Denise says her goodbyes she leaves the house almost in floods of tears.

Meanwhile, at the Atkins household, Tina is sound asleep on the sofa. Shirley is sat on the sofa next to hear as Gray makes his way into the living room after hearing Shirley return home. Something tells me that Gray also knows what has been happening as he questions Shirley about the robbery. She reveals to him that not everything went to plan and they only got away with two cars. Gray then notices Tina lying on the sofa, Shirley begs him to let her stay for a while, as she has nowhere else to go after being chucked out of her house, she promises Tina wouldn't be any bother - not so much as an excited Labrador. Gray agrees to let her sleep in the basement, Shirley thanks Gray for the kindness he's showed both her and Tina.

Uh-oh, the next scene gives me a horrible feeling - Ian has decided to pay Suki a visit, she questions him on whether his visit is worth her getting out of bed for. It's then Ian makes a comment, why can't he get what he wants for a change? But seriously, what does he want?! He agrees to help Suki. I might be a bit lost right now, but Suki has it in for the Slater's right? - Who has Ian got it in for?! Ooooh did he know that Kat was in on the robbery?! So, he's going to push Suki's application to get work done on the Slater household in exchange for money?! But what is he going to do with her money?! Something tells me Ian has got it in for Phil more than anyone, but I have no idea what he's going to get out of this arrangement with Suki. The only thing that Ian is going to get, is more enemies, I'm telling you when Christmas comes, there are going to be a long list of suspects as to who attacks Ian, I'm sure of it!

The final scene I found was a bit of a frightening one, I kind of felt scared for Callum. He's sat at the police station writing his own statement about how Kush punched him and fled the scene. Suddenly, DI Thompson makes his way into the room, he is clearly very angry with Callum, he locks the door and turns away every single security camera in the room. Something was telling me that he was going to attack Callum himself. Callum begins to apologise for his mistake but he tries to reassure Thompson that he is doing his best. But Thompson is having none of it, he calls Callum a liar and bangs against the table. He knows full well that he let them all go. Callum once again tries to reassure him that he wouldn't do that and potentially put his job on the line. DI Thompson grabs a chair and gets close to Callum and he gives him a huge ultimatum - he has two weeks to dob Phil into the police, otherwise Ben will go to prison. Now he has definitely been put into a corner, what the heck is poor Callum going to do?! Will he inform his boyfriend and tell him everything that's been happening? Or will he find he'll have no choice but to give Phil to the police?! Who knows?!

Tuesday 17th November 2020

Hello again everyone! Hope you're all doing okay! Now this the episode that the majority of us have been anxiously waiting for! Is the robbery going to be a success? Or is something going to go horribly wrong and someone gets caught? I'm really looking forward to writing about this episode, something tells me it's going to be gripping and explosive!

The episode begins with Phil, Shirley, Ben, Kat and Kush all arriving at the Insurance building to make a start on their robbery. Phil instructs the group that he wants things to be over as quickly as possible, it makes sense that they shouldn't be there for as long as they specifically have to! He makes it perfectly clear they need to be in and out, end of! Kat informs them that the security guard won't be there until 8am, which really should leave them plenty of time! But then again is it 8am or 8pm? Who knows? I'm sure that will come to light as the episode goes on. They quickly go off in separate directions - Ben and Phil together, Shirley and Kat together and then Kush.

Ooooh, meanwhile back on the Square, Ian enters the Vic after calling the police about the robbery. The look on his face looks like guilt to me - maybe even dismay, jealousy, shock - maybe all of them rolled into one? Max once again calls out to him as he's sat in a booth, as to whether he's got the money to pay him back - Ian ignores him and turns around to see Sharon behind the bar approaching him, asking him where he had been, he ignores her also and makes his way upstairs of the Vic. Max and Linda giggle as they think he's giving everyone the silent treatment because of their actions earlier in the day, sneaking behind the bar and giving out free booze! As they giggle about Ian, Max is looking through Linda's portfolio of her idea of making superhero costumes for autistic children. Sharon watches them as they seem to get cosy. Max is complimenting Linda's work and pushing her to go for her new business plan, even though Linda admits she can't afford it, even if she did want to go ahead with it. Max then asks whether Mick knows, but Linda bows her head and admits that she hasn't told him yet, considering he's been going through a lot lately, she feels perhaps this isn't the right time to be informing him about her new idea. Max looks at her almost with sympathy, but it does look as if he's contemplating something - will he somehow give her the money to start her business? Will he end up helping her set it up? What do you guys think?!

Across the Square, Tina has packed her suitcase after overhearing Iqra and Ash talking about her moving out. She tries to reassure them that their decision is fine and that she completely understands, Iqra appears to be really sympathetic and Ash apologises for her finding out the way she did. When they ask where she's going to stay, Tina jokingly says "The park bench seems free!" - they look at her with shocked expressions but she reassures them that she'll be okay. But in all seriousness, where is she going to go? It's not like she can go back to the Vic, will Gray maybe take her in as he has with Shirley? Could she go and stay with Mick and Linda for a while until she finds her own place? I'd hate to see her be homeless!

At the police station, DI Thompson is playing the recording of Phil and Kat discussing their robbery, whilst Callum is also in the room hearing the discussion. Thompson pushes for Callum to inform him about what he knows, but Callum insists that that is the first time he's heard anything about it, he even insists that Ben wouldn't tell him anything like that! Thompson begins to get frustrated until a fellow officer rushes in telling them that they've had an anonymous tip-off about a robbery and the culprits disguised as cleaners. Thompson knows that that is where Phil and Ben are, he instructs Callum that no matter how he does it, he wants someone arrested! Callum begins to panic and we see him send a message to his boyfriend, warning him to get out of the building! But back at the Insurance company, Ben, Phil and Kush have found the parking lot with the expensive cars, Ben and Phil work separately on different cars whilst Kush stands and watches - he questions how he can help in any way, but they just inform him not to touch anything. Kush watches with a (quite a cute) smile - must be the adrenaline!

Returning to the Vic, Ian is starring into space, almost in a world of his own. Are the events of his actions running through his mind? Does he actually realise he's put his brother and his Dad in danger? Does he feel no shame or dismay?! As he sits alone, Lexi is stood in the doorway and calls him a "Snake!" - which takes Ian completely by surprise. I love little Lexi, she's such a superstar! She informs her Uncle that that is what her Dad calls him. As she continues to insult her Uncle further, Kathy appears and informs she'll be taking Lexi home shortly. As Lexi disappears, Kathy informs her son that she's come deliver his mail, Ian appears thankful to his Mother, she informs him that not everyone is against him, even though it must feel like it right now. She then shows him that one specific later that came was the first payment of the Cafe remortgage is due, suddenly Ian's face drops as his Mum asks him to take care of it, he then sheepishly asks her whether she can pay for it for the month and he'll start to pay from the following month. Kathy instantly looks really disappointed in her son, she questions whether that was his plan from the very beginning, put her into debt and then her be the one to pay it all back. Ian insists that that isn't the case and tries to explain that he needs a few weeks to sort things out - I think that Ian has got himself into something he can't control, he can't pay Max back, he can't pay his Mum back, he can't even pay for the remortgage payments. I think he's on a big downward spiral. Kathy refuses to pay for it and tells her son that it's on his shoulders, but just as she turns to walk away, Ian starts acting like a child and saying that she would do it for Ben - so he is! He's jealous of his brother! Is that it?! - He claims that Ben is the Golden Boy and can do no wrong, but when he drops the insult that she's an unpaid baby-sitter, Kathy hits back! She informs her son that she actually doesn't want paying to look after her granddaughter, because that's what families do!!! That's what Grandparents do! You'd think by now that Ian would understand the concept of "Family" instead of always focusing on money. Kathy states that she would've hoped that Ian would've had a conscience after everything he's done, but it looks like he well and truly hasn't got one!

Back at the parking lot in the Insurance building, Phil and Ben are attempting to jump-start the cars. Ben appears to get his car going pretty quickly as Phil is struggling with the wires of his car. Ben looks over and queries whether his Dad is having problems, but Phil is adamant he's almost got it working. Kush then asks whether he could help, but Phil insists that his only role is to get the gate open when they're ready to leave, but Kush checks they only have 40-odd minutes remaining. Kush makes the valid point that getting the gate open will only take him 5 minutes, Phil then passes Kush the crowbar, instructing him to get the last car working. As he does so, Kush once again gives Phil an excited smile, I do feel it must've been the adrenaline rush of the possibility of doing a successful robbery and the chance of getting a good amount of money at the end of it. Phil laughs and comments that the job they're doing now is much better than selling boob-tubes!

Returning to the Square and at the Prince Albert, Tina walks in with her suitcase to find Kathy drinking on her own. As she joins her, Kathy notices that she has her luggage with her, she informs the poor girl that she can't sleep in the bar again. Tina then comes to the realisation she'll have to bunk up with Shirley again. It's then that Kathy responds to her by telling her that she has family who care about her, Tina can see that Kathy is upset about something and asks what's wrong. Now whether it's the drink that causes her to spill the beans or whether she just needs someone to talk to, Tina pours her another glass of wine and promises not to say a word to anyone, Kathy confides in her colleague about Ian committing fraud by forging her signature and re-mortgaging the Café, much to Tina's shock.

Back at the Vic, as Ian quickly sneaks out into the back in the background, Sharon is at the front and appears to be on the phone to a solicitor, she's informing them that she's knows what is owed to her and what Phil's solicitor is offering can think again about their offer. Ahhh, it's all coming to light now! Max has approached Bobby and is trying to convince him to change the age on his leaflet, and the only reason that Max has done that is so Linda can apply for her business idea. Bobby seems doubtful at first as his thought process is that his sister would want the opportunity to go to someone who was her age, but Max tries to push him to change the age limit, as that way there would be more applications from older ladies. Bobby asks Sharon for her advice, seeing as she and Max are both trustees for Bobby's charity, and she voices her opinion - on what good it'll do for Max? But he insists he's just doing right with a business attitude. Suddenly Linda appears and asks them what she's missed and when she realises that Bobby has agreed to change the age limit on his applicants, Max smiles at her and Linda instantly knows that he's done that for her. She thanks him for helping her and she starts to wonder how she'll make a start on her new business plan, however she needs to send in the application first - what if she's not successful?! She's getting in a bit over her head isn't she? Well Max also?! Or is it written in the stars - she'll apply and she'll get the money to start her new business. Max encourages Linda to call her husband and tell him the good news, however she seems reluctant to do so. As Max approaches the bar to get them another drink, Sharon confronts him head on - she knows what he's up to and warns him to stay away from her, even though Max plays dumb, Sharon can see right through him and warns him that she is her best mate and doesn't want her ruining her marriage to Mick, she doesn't want their marriage ending in divorce - she states that Mick and Linda are meant for each other. Max tries to reassure the blonde vixen that he and Linda are just friends, so she has nothing to worry about. But Sharon gives him one last warning, she'll be watching him from a distance!

Back at the parking lot, Kush successfully manages to break into the car, he seems so proud of himself and so excited, once he knows that he has managed to get into the car, Phil sets things in motion, for them to get into their cars ready to driver off and he instructs Kush to get the gate open. However, when Kush goes over the gate and types in the code, nothing happens. He tries for a second time and once again, nothing happens - has Kat given them the wrong code?! Or is he simply putting in the wrong code?! I don't know whether you guys noticed but the final digit of the code looks like either the number 6 or the letter B (In lower case) - Kush only types in the number 6, something is telling me that he's simply typing it in wrong and it actually is the lower-case B. But I could be wrong, maybe Kat has got the code wrong. Kush looks over to Phil and Ben in a slight realisation of panic that they might not be able to get out. Meanwhile, Kat and Shirley are trying their best to clean the offices, well Kat is however, whereas Shirley is being typical Shirley and is casually sat whilst Kat does all the work. As Kat asks her to make more of an effort, Shirley declines and Kat is quick to announce that she's done good when it's come to the robbery plan. Suddenly, a member of staff comes into the office and finds her and Shirley there.

Ian has found his way into the restaurant and appears to be in such dismay he throws a stash of paperwork all over the floor. As he does so, Suki walks in and see the state he's left the restaurant in, as she approaches him, Ian makes it clear to her that he doesn't want her in the restaurant. However, Suki is quick to make a proposition for him, she informs him about her plans for the Slater household and with him being a member of the council, she thinks he can help get her application get the attention she's wanting. In return she will give him £10,000! Ian is left stunned by her offer and tells her that he's actually not to be bought, but in his desperate need for money, will he take her up on her offer? It may just be the only way to get the money he needs to pay people back with. But of course, that would mean even more trouble for Slater's, once they find out that Ian helped Suki with her plan, he'll only have a few more people out to get him! Something tells me this whole situation isn't going to end well for Ian! What do you guys think?!

Back at the Insurance building, Shirley and Kat are in a blind panic as they're trying to get rid of the gentleman that's walked in on them. Shirley pushes Kat to try and get rid of him. They very subtly and quickly leave the man in the room as he appears to get distracted by sirens approaching the building from outside. Downstairs in the parking lot, Phil is frantic for Kush to get the gate open, Ben quickly notifies Kush that the police are approaching and Kush finally realises that he's been putting the code in wrong, finally he manages to put the code in correctly and franticly, Kat and Shirley dash towards the cars as Phil is shouting for them to get going. Kat pleads to Kush to come with them and leave the one car on it's own, but he's adamant he can do it! As Ben and Shirley drive ahead, the police are gathering outside the building, Kush is frantically trying to get his car to start as Kat begs him to just leave it and go with them. Phil shouts at Kat that they need to move quickly before they get nicked, Kat takes one last look at Kush and simply just says "I'm sorry!" before getting in the car with Phil and leaving him behind.

Kush is absolutely stunned that she's just left him to face the police alone. Callum arrives outside and manages to see Ben leave the scene in his car, only when Phil follows in his car, DI Thompson sees him very clearly and instructs his fellow police officers to go after him. He then instructs Callum to go into the parking lot to see if there is anyone else about. Unfortunately Kush is still struggling to get his car to work, Callum comes face-to-face with Kush and tells him to simply exit the car peacefully as police forces are surrounded everywhere, there is no easy way for him to get out of this now. Kush realises he's backed into a corner, he does everything Callum instructs him to do, only he decides to quickly make a run for it! Callum quickly dashes after him and follows him into a room on the third floor of the building. Kush attempts to hide, Callum comes into the room and spots Kush's reflection, however what he does next is a very interesting thing, he informs his boss that Kush actually got away, much to Kush's relief. When Callum shuts the door, making Kush think he's left the room, Kush attempts to make his escape but is surprised to see Callum still standing there. For a moment, I truly did think Callum was going to let Kush go, but instead he insists on arresting him. Kush begs to let him, but when Callum states he can't simply do that, Kush makes one last threat - if Kush is going to be sent down for this burglary, then he's going to make sure that Ben does to!

Monday 16th November 2020

Good afternoon / evening everyone! Hope you all had a brilliant weekend. This is quite an exciting post for me this one as this will be my 100th written blog post reviewing an episode of EastEnders, and I have a feeling it's going to be such a good episode to write about! I'm excited to get stuck in so let's jump right into it!

The episode begins with Kat sat on the sofa in her living room, checking the amount of her wages that Ian has paid her, as she checks them she notices that Ian has cut her short of the correct amount she's owed. As she's chatting to Stacey, the conversation turns the event which will be happening that night. It sounds as if this robbery she has planned with Phil will be going ahead that night. Kat informs Stacey to look after the kids and tells her that if they ask where she is, to make up some kind of logical excuse for her absence. Stacey once again tells her cousin that she still doesn't have to go through with this robbery and that they'll be able to find another way to find the money they owe Suki. But Kat is convinced that there is no other way and that this is the best shot she has of getting quick cash. As Stacey leaves the room, she suggests to take Kush with her to be on the safe side, suddenly Kush enters the room and informs Kat that he's planning on attending a Gambling Addiction meeting in an attempt to put things right between the couple. Kat informs her boyfriend that Phil has already organised for another driver, but Kush is quick to fight his corner and persuade her that whoever this other driver will be will not have her back as much as he will.

At the Vic, Ian is having what appears to be trouble with a supplier. As his brother and his family look across at him, its looks pretty clear that they have been made aware about what Ian has done to Kathy. Lexi tells his Uncle that the family aren't speaking to him anymore, as she sits with her Dad and Callum. As Ian takes himself behind the bar, Lexi asks her Dad what plans they have for that evening but Ben apologises to his daughter and explains he's having to work, to which Callum looks at him and pleads for him to be careful. Is Callum letting on that he knows what his boyfriend has planned? Or is he simply just showing support? Suddenly, Kat comes flying into the pub demanding Ian to pay her wages correctly, as she does so she sees Ben sat across the other end of the pub. As Ben and his family get ready to leave, Kat approaches him and asks who the new driver is that Phil's pulled in for the robbery, but before Ben can respond Ian is quick to insult Kat about cleaning for the Mitchell's and she storms off. Ian then enquires as to how much the Mitchell's are paying her but Ben really doesn't seem interested in making small-talk with his brother, he informs him that he's having to hold back really hard to not hurt him after what he did to their Mum, but he warns him that he ever pulls a stunt like that again, he'll come for him. I hate to say it, but I'm feeling glad that Ian has been making a lot of enemies lately, he seems to just be annoying everyone and he's digging his heels in deeper and deeper. There seems to be a lot of people he's upset right now - Max, Kathy, Sharon, Ben, Kat, Peter, Bobby, Dotty - I think someone needs to teach him a lesson!

After leaving the pub and witnessing Ian be the big "I am!", Max makes his way into the Café and finds Linda sitting on her own. They both greet each other as Max informs her about what has been happening in the Vic. It's then she mentions that her husband has gone to stay with their son, Lee, for a few days after the events that happened with him at the Vic. She informs Max that Ian had also sent them a bill for the bottle of alcohol that Mick accidentally smashed. Oh and what a coincidence! Max then happens to mention to Linda that he's actually thought of a way of getting back at Ian, to which she is instantly interesting in hearing his plan.

At the Masood/Ahmed household, (to which now Iqra, Ash and Tina are living in) Tina is confiding in Iqra about putting her foot in it with Mick and that he's not answering her calls, Iqra can kind of relate to Tina as she mentions that her sister, Habiba, has blocked her on all forms of social media. It seems as if they both have something in common when it comes to their families. Ash can be seen just listening in on their conversation as Iqra admits she doesn't know what to say to her sister if she'd try calling her. What is she supposed to say regarding Jags? In Iqra's mind, Jags is the one who's in the wrong - but of course Ash knows differently, she knows the truth. She grabs her coat and makes an excuse to leave, informing her girlfriend that she's going to work.

The next scene shows Jack visiting Denise once again, Denise informs him that she's been to the church with Raymond again and that the pastor gave her a book for Raymond. She informs Jack that she's been told more about Raymond's adoptive mother and how the little boy is constantly drawing pictures of his parents. Something is telling me that Denise feels like she might not be able compare to Raymond's adoptive Mother. Jack once again suggests she tells the young boy the truth about her identity in a case to make him feel more settled, he shuts the door behind him to make sure they don't have any interruptions whilst Denise tells her son who she is. Denise is looking a little bit nervous, but can only hope that the little boy will understand and accept the truth.

Returning to the Vic, Sharon is quick rush Ian into sorting the fact that they're running out of booze, Ian tries to reassure her that he'll get onto the supplier and sort it. Suddenly, Max and Linda sneak into the pub and they both make their way behind the bar announcing to the locals that all drinks will be free on behalf of Ian. Ian is absolutely stunned and can't believe what is happening. As Stacey and Jean enter also enter the pub, Stacey notices Linda behind the bar and comments how long it's been since she's seen Linda serving drinks. Linda appears incredibly happy to be where she once stood and she's looking even more happy to be helping Max wind Ian up. Ian is eager to stop what's happening before it the situation carries on or gets carried away but Max stops him from walking any further behind the bar and informs him he still owes him thousands of pounds! Ian questions him on how he's able to get that money so quick, but Max sarcastically suggests to him to rob a bank!

(Why do I have a horrible feeling that something is going to wrong with the robbery job that Kat and Phil are going to pull? Why do I feel that Ian might somehow get his hands on the money they get/nick, just so he can pay Max off? Will that then mean that the Slaters will be kicked out of their house? I admit I've got a very bad feeling that this robbery isn't going to end well!)

At the Mitchell household, Kat and Shirley are sat discussing the robbery job, Kat shows Shirley that she's made her a pass for her to get inside the building, she informs her that they may come in handy, unfortunately Shirley point out that she's made the blunder of putting their real names on the passes. As Phil and Ben make an appearance, Kat once again asks them who the new driver is that they've got for the job and inform her that it is in fact Shirley. Kat is left stunned as she informs them she needs her on the inside with her, but Phil reassures her that Shirley will be the best driver to get away. Kat is left reeling as she tells them to forget about the job and leaves, to which Ben runs after her. As he catches up to her outside, Ian can be seen in the background as Kat informs Ben that she'll get another driver, suddenly Ian speaks up - has he been listening to everything that they've been talking about? Is he aware that there's going to be a robbery? He asks his brother whether he could be a driver for them. Ben is clearly shocked, but as Ian continues to plead to his brother, it becomes clear that he is also desperate for money. Ben tells his brother to actually beg - it's clear that Ian is looking a little uncomfortable as he begins to kneel to the floor, to which Ben bursts out laughing and informs his brother that he wouldn't involve him if he was basically the last man on Earth. Things are looking really sour between to the two brothers, Ben is clearly angry with Ian because of what he did to their Mum. As Ben begins to walk away Ian shouts to him to stop acting like his Dad, which stops Ben in tracks, the next line really surprised me - Ian actually told his own brother that his Dad hates him - well clearly he doesn't know Phil and Ben as much as he thought, considering what Ben has gone through in the last few months regarding his hearing loss, Phil has tried his absolute best to support his son, even acknowledges his boyfriend which speaks volumes. Ben informs Ian that the relationship between him and his Dad is solid and the only person who is hated at the moment is him! As Ben makes his way inside the house, unfortunately, Ian notices that the pass made for Shirley has been accidentally left on the floor. What the hell is he going to do with that?!

Returning to Denise and Jack, as little Raymond is doing more drawings, Denise is trying to talk the young boy. I have to be honest, I found this scene very touching. Raymond is drawing a little picture on the floor as Denise is very softly talking to him about how his adoptive parents told him about "Another Mummy" who grew him in her tummy. Raymond nods his head in acknowledgement, showing that he knows what she's talking about, at such a young age he appears to understand. Denise asks whether he thought about her to which he gently nodded his head again, Denise then tells the young boy "That was me!" and she continues to mention how she gave him to special parents because he was a special boy. Suddenly Raymond turns around and gives Denise the picture he has drew, to which Denise instantly thinks is of his adoptive Mother, but when Jack notices that he's drawn a dress the same colour that Denise is wearing, Denise asks little Raymond whether the picture was of her, to which he smiles and nods. This was just an incredibly cute scene, I absolutely loved it! Beautifully done!

Returning to Ash, who has actually just gone to the Panesar household, she appears to be on the phone to Iqra, trying to reassure her that everything is fine. On the other end of the line, Iqra seems erratic, questioning her girlfriend why she left in such a rush and whether she is actually okay. Ash makes the quick excuse that she has to go and hangs up the phone. Behind her, we can see that Suki has been listening in on her daughter's conversation, trying to be the supporting Mother, she asks whether everything okay. But Ash admits that she's hating having to lie to her girlfriend, lying about Jags and everything else. Suki then tries to comfort her and explains that having to lie is probably best then telling a devastating truth. But then, Ash turns the conversation completely onto what her Mum is doing to the Slater's - are the Slater family even aware that she's planning on changing their house into studio apartments?! It looks as if Suki was planning on posting some fake letters to them, but then admits that perhaps she might think of another way of telling them. I really don't like Suki and I really hope that she'll get what's coming to her - eventually!

Back at the Slater household, Kush can be seen playing on his laptop again - is he really playing another game of poker?! Kat calls him from the hallway and he quickly shuts the laptop down before she can see. As she enters the kitchen she asks her boyfriend whether he was serious about seeking help for his gambling addiction, he confirms to her that he is. Kat then informs Kush that she's willing to let him join her on this robbery job if he's still interested, to which he seems incredibly eager to help out. He asks what's changed her mind, to which she explains that she needs someone to support her and be on her side - as it's fair to say that none of the Mitchell clan will be - she tells him that she does trust him as she leaves the room. As she enters the hallway we can hear her arranging with Phil to meet in the Arches, meanwhile Kush goes back onto his laptop, revealing that he has been playing Poker, yet again, but interestingly he actually pressed "Fold" and quits the game! I think the knowledge that Kat actually does trust him to help her with this job must've proved to him that he doesn't need to be playing Poker any more. Hopefully this will be the big turn around for Kush.

Meanwhile at the Vic, Max and Linda are once again sharing a drink. Sharon approaches them and questions Max's actions and how it would help Ian paying him back, but Linda is quick to defend Max, informing her friend that she hasn't laughed so hard for a long time. As Sharon leaves them to it, Linda confesses to Max how much she misses being behind the bar, Max understands and tries to comfort her, he tries to lift her spirits saying that that was her past, she bound to miss it, but she now needs to focus on the future. It's then that Linda reveals that she's had a new business idea, thanks to her son, Ollie. She reveals her new business idea would be superhero costumes for children with autism, to which Max agrees would be a brilliant idea. This is very interesting - does this mean that Linda might go down another road and start her own business? It could be a big success! Will Max convince her to go for it?!

At the Arches, Phil, Ben and Shirley are waiting for Kat to turn up, both Ben and Phil are looking a little bit tense. Shirley informs her boss that there will be other jobs, but Phil think that this opportunity it too easy to pass up, £100,000 for a few motors! It should be an easy job! Eventually Kat turns up and passes Shirley another leopard print piny, much to everyone's confusion. Phil makes the valid point that Shirley is going to be one of the driver's but then Kat reveals she's got someone else - as they all walk outside the Arches, Kush is seen standing very stern and he looks Phil dead in the eye. Will Phil agree to this arrangement?! Or does he perhaps feel that he could land them in trouble?! I mean, I don't think something should go wrong with the group they've got, but I fear something might go wrong for maybe one of two of them. What do you guys think? Is their robbery going to be a success? Or is something going to go horrendously wrong?!

Back with Jack and Denise, Jack praises Denise for the way she approached Raymond and revealing she was in fact his real Mum. Denise shows him the picture Raymond drew and he thought Jack was his new Daddy! Am I the only one who found this incredibly cute?! Jack at first looked in shock, but Denise reassured him that she's going to tell the young boy that they're just good friends - however from the look of both their faces, something tells me that they wish they could in fact go back to the way things were between them. I've got a feeling that they will rekindle their romance, they clearly still have feelings for one another, and perhaps Jack might come to love little Raymond as his own and they could be a family. Suddenly a voice from the hallway breaks the silence, Denise and Jack look in surprise as Kim walks through the door and announces her return! I AM SO HAPPY TO HAVE KIM BACK!!! However, she's got a lot to find out - first she'll have to find out about Chantelle passing away, and then the bombshell of having Raymond back in her sister's life! How is she going to react to the recent news?!

Back at the Arches, Shirley and Phil voice their concerns about Kush being involved, they make the very valid point that there isn't any room for mistakes. Ben questions whether he even knows the plan, to which Kush then gives a note by note to what the plan entails. Phil questions whether Kush will make a mistake or not, but Kush makes his feelings perfectly clear to him. His family is on the line, their plan has to work! Phil acknowledges that Kush means business and that he's serious about being a driver for them. Phil instructs them to meet later in the evening with a car as they walk away, as they do, Kat is looking more nervous as the plan comes closer and closer together. Kush tells her not to worry, he has her back and everything will be fine. (Famous last words, right?!)

Returning home to Iqra, Ash starts making up an a story as to how her day was, Iqra is visibly not having any of it. She questions her girlfriend straight out as to whether she is seeing someone else, which takes Ash completely by surprise. Ash tells her girlfriend that that is not the case, however when Iqra reveals that she went to the hospital to drop off her lunch for her, she sees that her story isn't going to work. She then tells Iqra the truth that she was in face at her Mum's house, but however, she still doesn't tell her full truth and instead tells her that the reason she left was because of Tina. She explains that Tina is getting in the way of their relationship and that they're not being able to spend time alone together. Iqra appears relieved and states she'll tell Tina to move out, to which Tina then appears from the hallway with a devastated look on her face.

The final scene of this episode was a very good one I have to say! Callum is at work and we can see that he's sent Ben a message asking him to be careful, however DI Thompson walks in on Callum and informs him that he's got recorded footage from the recorder that he planted at the Arches! Ooooohhhh gosh, I had forgotten all about that! So everything that Kush, Kat, Shirley, Phil and Ben had discussed has all been recorded! Callum at first reveals that that is the first he has heard about it, but once again DI Thompson blackmails him, saying if he doesn't tell him what he knows, he'll make sure that Ben goes down for his part in this crime! As all this is taking place, Phil, Ben, Kush, Kat and Shirley are all seen wearing dark clothes, of course except for Kat and Shirley in their leopard print pinnies, and approaching their cars ready to set off for the robbery. However what they don't see as they drive off is Ian, stood in a phone box! He's only gone and phoned the police and reported them! Is this to get his own back on Ben and Phil?! I fail to see why Ian has done this, what is in it for him?! PRIDE!!!!!

Will the police already be there as they approach the building? Will they get away with the robbery? Will Callum be backed into a corner and reveal what he knows?! Or is something going to go terribly wrong and someone end up getting caught?  I for one, pray it's not Phil or Ben, however something tells me it will be! What do you guys think? I know the following episode will probably be nail biting, but I'm really looking forward to watching it and catching up on it tomorrow and reviewing it!