Poor Linda Carter (Kellie Bright) has found herself entangled with EastEnders' most toxic man, Max Branning (Jake Wood), after losing her husband Mick (Danny Dyer). Years ago, they had an affair that resulted in baby Annie Carter (Lois Hawkins), though Linda told everyone Mick was the father. Max left without knowing, but his return last year revealed the truth. Despite kidnapping Annie, Linda agreed to co-parent.
Linda's Jealousy Intensifies
As Max struggled to reconnect with his family, Linda became a firm support, even verbalizing that there is a good man deep within him. However, their spark reignited only to be extinguished when Max kept secrets about Linda's son Ollie's bullying ordeal. After winning back her trust, Linda found him getting intimate with Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins). Now, her jealousy over their burgeoning relationship intensifies.
Grant Mitchell Offers Support
Grant Mitchell (Ross Kemp), who recently allied with Linda to monitor Phil Mitchell's (Steve McFadden) mental health, suggests she treat herself. He later inspires her to sell her share of Fox & Hair after learning Johnny (Charlie Suff) has money trouble. When Linda offers cash, Johnny snaps, forcing Grant to intervene.
A Night of Revenge
Emotionally raw, Linda partakes in a bunk-up with someone new, which Max learns at his and Cindy's joint birthday party. Jealous, he asks Cindy to move in with him, and she agrees. As they play a dangerous game of one-upmanship, viewers wonder who will end up heartbroken.
Will Linda and Max ever admit their feelings? Probably not, but the mess they are making is much more fun to watch.
