Penny Branning (Kitty Castledine) welcomed baby Ethan in emotional EastEnders scenes recently, but her happiness could be short-lived after two neighbours may be closing in on her 'who is the dad' turmoil.
The popular character, as viewers know, is in a relationship with Vinny Panesar (Shiv Jalota), and he is over the moon, believing himself to be the dad. No doubts whatsoever. And why should he have? He and Penny seem in a good place and have been looking forward to a happy future. Something which rarely exists in Walford.
A secret one-night stand
Penny, however, had a one night stand with Harry Mitchell (Elijah Holloway), the now boyfriend of her best mate Gina Knight (Francesca Henry), at the end of last year, meaning there is a very high possibility that the mechanic is the father.
Prior to the birth, Penny resolved to keep such information from Vinny but – on the day of his 30th birthday – she resolved to come clean. Before she could do so, however, her waters broke and she was rushed to hospital. Vinny almost didn't make it in time for the little one's arrival but he ultimately did so – and was overwhelmed with emotion to hold his child for the first time.
Who else knows the truth?
At the moment, Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa) is across the truth of Penny's secret. Priya also found out after overhearing the scandal – but she is out of the picture with glowing Sophie Khan Levy having departed the show for her maternity leave, which seems to be more permanent than we feared.
As many new parents can relate to, there are sleep deprivation issues and also clashes with the mother-in-law, with Penny next week confronting Suki (Balvinder Sopal) over her criticism of Vinny. A united front – but for how long if Vinny discovers the truth and the family he is so excited to have is blown apart?
Neighbours grow suspicious
Penny grows anxious when Rose and Jodie comment that baby Ethan doesn't look like Vinny – so how long before others might come to that conclusion? As Penny reckons even these relative strangers might be onto the case, maybe it's time to come clean to Vinny before someone beats her to it. After all, in soap, it is absolutely impossible that this situation will stay hidden forever…
