Emma's dramatic return
After abandoning her dying daughter Lola Pearce, Emma Harding shockingly returns to Walford for her granddaughter Lexi in next week's episode of EastEnders.
The backstory
Actress Patsy Kensit joined the BBC One soap as Lola Pearce's health deteriorated due to her terminal brain tumour. Lola grew up without her mother Emma and was taken aback when she suddenly appeared in Walford wanting to reconnect.
Another letdown for Lexi
Emma quickly became overwhelmed by Lola's struggle and fled Albert Square, once again letting down both Lola and young Lexi Pearce. Since then, Lexi has had to cope with her own mother trauma after Lola's heartbreaking death. Jay Brown and Ben Mitchell have been doing their best to support her.
Jay's concern
When Jay sees Lexi being secretive with her phone, he becomes worried. He later discovers that she has been texting Emma, who has made an unexpected comeback. Lexi reveals that she's been messaging Emma for several weeks and is concerned about her.
Jay's decision
Unable to forgive Emma for abandoning Lexi and Lola, Jay throws her out. But Callum Highway pleads with him to listen for Lexi's sake, and Emma asks for another chance to talk.
Chaotic encounter
Things take a turn for the worse for Emma when she encounters Walford tough man Phil Mitchell at Peggy's. Emma causes chaos and demands a G&T.
Ben's fury
Ben is as furious as Jay when he learns that Emma is back in Albert Square and bans her from seeing Lexi altogether. Kathy Beale steps in and advises Jay to prioritize Lexi's feelings.
Heartbreaking messages
Jay is devastated when Emma shares the anguished messages Lexi has been sending her. Lexi didn't want to upset her dads any further. Jay promises to speak to Ben about allowing Emma to see Lexi, but it remains to be seen if Ben will be convinced.
Emma's persistence
Emma continues to push for access to Lexi, and reluctantly, Jay allows it. During an emotional conversation, Emma promises to never leave Lexi again. However, Ben threatens to destroy her hopes.
What will happen next?
Tune in to EastEnders from Monday to Thursday at 7.30pm on BBC One to find out.
