Emmerdale is set to deliver a series of gripping storylines next week on ITV, leaving viewers heartbroken for Charity Dingle and teasing a character's return.
Charity's Heartbreaking Ordeal
Charity Dingle has been struggling after being sexually assaulted by Dr. Caitlin Todd. The villainous doctor had been blackmailing Charity over the secret that Charity and Ross Barton are the biological parents of baby Leyla, who was born via surrogacy for Sarah Sugden and Jacob Gallagher. Dr. Todd demanded £100,000, plunging Charity into desperation before the assault.
After reporting the attack to the police, Charity is visited by Dr. Manpreet Sharma. She falsely claims her breakdown is postnatal depression and is prescribed medication. Feeling isolated, Charity struggles to confide in loved ones.
When Mack Boyd returns, he informs Sarah about Charity's struggles. Alone, Charity washes down sleeping pills with wine. Sarah blames herself for Charity's presumed depression, but Charity hints there is "more going on." However, she continues to deceive her family, attributing her issues to postnatal depression and sleep deprivation.
Upcoming Scenes
In the coming weeks, Charity will grapple with the aftermath of the attack, torn between confiding in her family or suppressing her trauma.
Lewis Barton in Danger
Meanwhile, Lewis Barton finds himself in danger. Vinny Dingle surprises Lewis with a spontaneous trip to Madeira, but Lewis's anxiety causes him to pull out. After encouragement from Ross, Lewis decides to go and rushes to catch Vinny at the airport.
As Lewis exits with his suitcase, a van screeches to a halt nearby. The scene hints at danger, possibly tying into the return of Kev Townsend, Lewis's father, played by Chris Coghill, who is set to reprise his role later this year.
Emmerdale airs Monday to Friday at 8:00pm on ITV1 and ITVX. If you've been affected by sexual assault, help is available at www.rapecrisis.org.uk or by calling 0808 802 9999.
