EastEnders’ Vicki Fowler has a big choice to make when it comes to her heart next week, after Ross Marshall makes a concerted effort to apologise. But despite his genuine plea for another chance, have Vicki’s affections already moved on to Zack Hudson?

“Vicki swears her secret snog was a moment of madness,” points out our Walford insider. “She loves Ross, but getting past what his son has done feels impossible. On the other hand, Zack’s given her exactly what she needs…”

Following her forbidden smooch with Zack, Vicki is in a reflective mood when her two-year anniversary with Ross approaches. She thought what they had was solid and dependable, but the spark she felt with Zack has made her question her future with Ross even more.

Vicki heads to Harry’s Barn, but soon the toxic behaviour of some of the men there gives her traumatic memories of Joel’s attitude. And after her previous reaction to Chelsea’s date, Vicki’s response raises alarm.

Joel’s vicious attack and twisted opinions linger in her mind as she starts to see all men as the same. Chelsea tries to calm Vicki down, berating her for her misplaced anger. She warns Vicki not to let Joel’s behaviour damage her opinion of other men. Will Vicki take notice of Chelsea’s concern?

Also reminiscing about their anniversary, Ross arrives at the club and tries to join in with Vicki’s dancing. But she’s soon furious that he dares to dance with her like nothing’s happened!

Later, scolded Ross manages to convince Vicki to stay for a drink. Will his apologies get through this time?

“Something shifts and Vicki agrees to reunite with Ross,” shares our source. “The couple decide to take things slowly. With Joel locked up, they can try to move past their problems, but it’s bound to cause friction. And Ross has no idea Vicki kissed Zack!”

Although Zack has promise to focus on Barney and leave vulnerable Vicki alone, their heart to heart proves there’s something between them.

Vicki and Ross try for a fresh start, but with Zack under their nose, will Vicki be able to resist? And if temptation strikes again, will Sharon find out and express her horror that her brother and sister are getting it on?