Walford is consumed by grief and suspicion as Martin Fowler’s funeral triggers a series of devastating events, culminating in a shocking exit and a fire that threatens to consume everything Stacey holds dear. The emotional fallout from the Queen Vic explosion, which claimed Martin’s life, continues to reverberate through the community, leaving Stacey to navigate a treacherous landscape of loss, betrayal, and vengeance.

Haunted by Martin’s final confession of love, Stacey has retreated to her brother Sean’s, leaving Ruby Allen to shoulder the burden of funeral preparations. Ruby, unaware of Martin’s last words, resents Stacey’s absence, fueling a growing animosity between the two women.

As the day of Martin’s funeral arrives, the residents of Walford brace themselves for an emotional rollercoaster. Sharon Watts and Vicki Fowler are visibly distraught, while Vicki’s boyfriend, Ross Marshall, stirs suspicion with his presence, despite Sharon’s warnings.

Lily, attempting to support her younger siblings, is confronted by Stacey’s unexpected return – intoxicated and emotionally shattered. Sonia Fowler, trying to offer comfort, is shocked when Stacey reveals she cannot face attending Martin’s funeral. Lily, struggling to reconcile her hurt with the gravity of the day, attempts to suppress her anger.

At the wake, Ruby’s resentment towards Stacey reaches a boiling point. A confrontation at the allotment erupts, fueled by revelations that shatter any hope of reconciliation. The animosity between the two women escalates, leaving their relationship in ruins.

Meanwhile, Lily, overwhelmed by grief, turns to her friend Avani Nandra-Hart for support. Encouraged by Avani, Lily resorts to alcohol, leading to a horrifying discovery for Stacey. Returning home, Stacey finds her daughter drunk and unresponsive, her attempt to mend their relationship thwarted. The chasm between mother and daughter deepens, suggesting a long and arduous path to healing.

As if the emotional turmoil wasn’t enough, a devastating fire breaks out at Martin’s market stall. Stacey, watching in horror as the flames consume the cart, vows to find the culprit and exact revenge. Martin’s loved ones gather, their grief compounded by the destruction of a symbol of his life.

Jack Branning, attempting to maintain order, assures Stacey that the police are investigating. He urges her to leave the matter to them, but Stacey, convinced she possesses incriminating evidence, is determined to take matters into her own hands. The question looms: who will Stacey blame, and what lengths will she go to seek retribution?

Amidst the chaos, Ruby Allen, unable to bear the weight of her grief and the animosity with Stacey, decides to leave Walford. The altercation at the allotment marks a point of no return. Jean Slater pleads with Stacey to make amends, but her attempts are futile. By the time Stacey relents, Ruby has already departed.

The fire, a symbol of destruction and loss, casts a dark shadow over Walford. Stacey’s determination to find the arsonist and Ruby’s sudden exit leave a trail of unanswered questions. Will Stacey ever find closure for Martin’s death? Will the truth behind the fire be revealed? And will the residents of Walford ever recover from the devastating events that have shattered their community?