Emmerdale viewers are in for an emotional rollercoaster next week as Charity Dingle struggles with the aftermath of a horrific sexual assault and Lewis Barton finds himself in grave danger.
Charity's Ordeal Continues
Charity has been suffering in silence after being blackmailed and then assaulted by Dr Caitlin Todd, who discovered that Charity and Ross Barton are the biological parents of baby Leyla. Charity acted as a surrogate for her granddaughter Sarah Sugden and husband Jacob Gallagher, who believe the child is theirs.
After reporting the attack to the police, Charity attempts to hide her trauma from her family. In upcoming episodes, Dr Manpreet Sharma checks on Charity, who lies about having postnatal depression. Manpreet prescribes medication, leaving Charity feeling isolated.
When Mack Boyd returns, he tells Sarah about Charity's struggles, causing Sarah to feel guilty. Charity hints that there is "more going on" but continues to deceive her loved ones. Mack consoles a distraught Sarah, who blames the surrogacy for Charity's emotional turmoil.
Lewis Barton in Peril
Meanwhile, Lewis Barton faces a terrifying ordeal. Vinny Dingle surprises Lewis with a trip to Madeira, but Lewis initially backs out due to unease. After encouragement from Ross, Lewis changes his mind and rushes to catch Vinny at the airport.
As Lewis dashes out with his luggage, a van screeches to a halt nearby. Masked thugs kidnap Lewis, leaving viewers wondering if he will escape unharmed. Could this be connected to the return of Kev Townsend, Lewis's father, later this year?
What's Next?
In the coming weeks, Charity will wrestle with whether to reveal the truth or bury her trauma. Emmerdale airs Monday to Friday at 8:00pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
If you have been affected by sexual assault, help is available at www.rapecrisis.org.uk or by calling the national helpline on 0808 802 9999.
