Joel Marshall attacked by Walford teens
Joel Marshall's return to Albert Square continues to cause chaos, but next week he faces a brutal revenge attack orchestrated by Avani Nandra-Hart and the other Walford teens. After Ross Marshall secures Joel a sixth form place, Avani, Nugget Gulati, and Amy Mitchell confront Ross over Joel's presence. Priya Nandra-Hart and Ravi Gulati also arrive to lay into the Marshalls. Despite Vicki's struggles, Joel books a train ticket to leave, but Ross pleads with him to stay.
Avani's plan unfolds
On Wednesday, July 22, vengeful Avani hatches a plan with Amy. They approach Joel, asking him to join them for an end of term celebration. With Ross's blessing, Joel attends, but Avani, Nugget, Barney, Lily, Amy, Ricky, Denzel, and Barney Mitchell reveal the ruse. They chain Joel to a fence, soak him with beer, and film his humiliation. The attack leaves Joel humiliated and the square divided.
Lauren and Mark's passion ignites
Lauren Branning and Mark Fowler Jr's stolen car scheme intensifies. On Monday, July 20, they exchange fierce words, and Lauren learns Mark hasn't put fake plates on the dodgy car. He speeds away from a police car and calls her for help. Despite her loyalty to husband Peter Beale, Lauren flees but later meets Mark. Their tension reveals underlying passion.
Denise and Jack finally open up
Denise Fox and Jack Branning struggle with vulnerability amid Denise's cancer battle. Jack is crestfallen when given compassionate leave, and Denise's inability to open up frustrates him. Phil Mitchell steps in to offer support. On Tuesday, July 21, Denise finally talks to Jack about her friend's death, but Jack struggles to reciprocate. However, on Thursday, July 23, the walls come down, and they fully open up, fixing their relationship. The moment is spoiled when Jack receives a call about Joel's attack.
Linda Carter meets Clive Masters
Linda Carter is instantly attracted to Clive Masters, a councillor she courts to help save the community centre. On Tuesday, July 21, Linda's dancing lesson hits a snag, but she rallies the women of Walford to save the centre. Clive arrives to offer support, and Elaine Peacock plays matchmaker for them.
Ian Beale faces prison
Ian Beale faces the possibility of jail. On Tuesday, he plans drinks for what could be his last night of freedom. During the Beale celebration, Chelsea Fox arrives and questions them harshly. Ian flees, followed by Lauren, who covers for him. On Thursday, Ian buys Lauren's story and spends the night at Peacock Palace with Elaine.
