Emmerdale is set to deliver more heartbreaking moments for Charity Dingle next week, leaving viewers deeply moved.
Charity's Ongoing Struggle
Recently, Dr Todd, who had been blackmailing Charity for weeks over baby Leyla's true biological parents, sexually assaulted her in intense scenes. Charity bravely reported the assault to the police, where soap fans recognised DS Reid actress Angela Lonsdale.
In current episodes, doctor Manpreet Sharma visits Charity, who falsely claims her breakdown is due to postnatal depression. Manpreet prescribes medication and leaves, leaving Charity feeling utterly alone as she struggles to confide in her family about the assault.
When Mack Boyd returns, Charity is upset to learn he has told Sarah about her difficulties. Alone, she swallows sleeping pills with wine.
Sarah's Guilt
Discovering her grandmother's struggles, Sarah is overwhelmed with guilt, believing Charity's presumed postnatal depression stems from her role as a surrogate for baby Leyla. Sarah remains unaware that Charity and Ross Barton are Leyla's true biological parents.
Next Week's Spoilers
In next week's episodes, Charity continues to spiral. She bonds with Cain Dingle over their shared pain, encouraging him to open up to his wife Moira and best mate Liam. However, Charity refuses to heed her own advice and remains closed off despite Cain's urging.
Meanwhile, Mack struggles to support Charity, telling Chas Dingle he feels helpless. His attempts to talk to Charity are rebuffed. Overwhelmed, a tearful Charity speeds off in her car. Later, broken and on the verge of collapse, she stands alone at the edge of a lake, ignoring Mack's calls.
Family's Desperate Search
Charity's family regroups after failing to find her. Beside himself with worry, Mack calls the police. At the lake, as Charity stares vacantly, she hears a rustling. A stranger appears, notices her distress, and tries to help. When the stranger touches Charity, she instinctively punches her. Shaken, Charity apologises, but the stranger understands the reaction. Assured she can be trusted, Charity prepares to open up. Meanwhile, Mack talks to the police about her disappearance. Will Charity be found and be okay?
Emmerdale airs Monday to Friday at 8:00pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
If you have been a victim of sexual assault, help is available at www.rapecrisis.org.uk or by calling 0808 802 9999.
