Eve Panesar-Unwin (Heather Peace) and wife Suki (Balvinder Sopal) received the news they desperately wanted in EastEnders: approval for adoption. However, the happy development came at a terrible time, as Eve had just slapped Nicola Mitchell (Laura Doddington) and now faces potential prison time.
Adoption Meeting Goes Wrong
Earlier, Eve had been drowning her sorrows at Harry's Barn after the adoption panel meeting went awry. Suki was on edge leading up to the meeting, worried about discussing her past as a parent in front of strangers. The situation was worsened by the fact that it was the anniversary of her son Jags' (Amar Adatia) death.
Jags, as viewers recall, was sent to prison five years ago by Suki, who framed him for a crime committed by Vinny (Shiv Jalota). Jags was subsequently attacked while behind bars after Ben Mitchell (Max Bowden) withdrew his protection, leaving Suki devastated. The guilt overwhelmed her, and when questioned about Jags by the panel, she fought tears and quickly exited.
Eve chased after her, urging her to return, but Suki apologised and left, feeling unable to continue. Devastated and believing they had lost their chance to be parents, Eve headed to the bar.
Confrontation with Nicola
Nicola Mitchell, working at the bar, soon received the brunt of Eve's frustration. Nicola has clashed with Suki numerous times over the past week. Eve squared up to her, telling Nicola she should have left Suki alone. Nicola acknowledged that Eve would have made a great mother but claimed Suki would never be a good parent, belittling her children in the process.
Seeing red, Eve slapped Nicola. Nicola told her to 'smile', pointing to the CCTV camera and reminding the former lawyer that with her 'previous', she is looking at years in prison. Eve reeled with shock.
Unexpected Good News
Upon returning home, Eve was taken aback when Suki told her that despite how the meeting concluded, they have been approved for adoption. However, it was clear that Eve was worried about what Nicola might do next. The question remains: will Nicola destroy Suki and Eve's happiness, or can they stop her?
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One or streams from 6am on BBC iPlayer.
