Prepare for a chilling revelation in Walford, as the seemingly charming Joel Marshall’s true colors are exposed, putting Avani Nandra-Hart in a potentially perilous situation that sends shockwaves through her friendship with Barney Mitchell. This spoiler delves into the escalating concerns surrounding Joel’s behavior, his negative influence on those around him, and the growing unease that culminates in a disturbing discovery.

The drama intensifies as Avani, still grappling with the fallout from her unresolved police complaint, seeks solace in the company of her friends, Amy, Denzel, and Nugget. However, the evening takes a turn when Joel and Tommy arrive, bringing with them a bottle of vodka and an air of reckless abandon.

Tensions rise as Tommy becomes the target of his peers’ teasing due to his inexperience with girls. In a moment that sets alarm bells ringing, Joel steps in, not to offer support or empathy, but to provide “troubling advice” that hints at a darker, more manipulative side.

“Joel is quickly becoming a bad influence,” a Walford insider reveals, and this scene serves as a stark illustration of that escalating concern. His actions go beyond mere teenage rebellion, encompassing underage drinking and the dissemination of harmful and inappropriate guidance. This behavior is particularly alarming given the vulnerability of those around him, especially Tommy, who is clearly seeking guidance and acceptance.

The situation spirals further as Avani’s isolation from her family deepens. Already strained by Priya’s conflict with Callum, Avani’s detachment grows when she later meets with Declan, a local drug dealer. In a desperate move, she attempts to obtain marijuana from him without payment. Declan refuses her request, but Joel, ever-present, intervenes by providing the cash.

This act of enabling not only highlights Joel’s willingness to engage in illicit activities but also positions him as someone who can exert control and influence over Avani. The arrangement to meet up and share the drugs further isolates Avani from her concerned parents, Priya and Ravi, who remain unaware of the dangerous path their daughter is treading.

Amidst this unfolding drama, Barney Mitchell’s long-standing affection for Avani takes center stage. It’s revealed that Barney harbors romantic feelings for Avani and has expressed a desire to take their relationship beyond friendship. His concern for her well-being intensifies when Joel and Tommy’s arrival disrupts their time together at No. 1.

Barney’s unease escalates when he witnesses Joel making a “nasty comment about Avani” after she leaves the room. This derogatory remark, made in the company of his friends, exposes a disturbing lack of respect and reveals Joel’s potential for duplicity.

“Barney really likes Avani,” the insider explains, “and he’s suggested that he’d love them to be more than friends. So he’s disappointed that she appears to be drawn to mysterious newcomer Joel.” Barney’s disappointment stems not from jealousy alone, but from a genuine fear that Avani is being drawn into a dangerous orbit.

Barney, driven by his protective instincts, confronts Joel about his disparaging comments. However, Joel, a master manipulator, cunningly twists the situation, convincing Avani that Barney was the aggressor. This act of deception not only damages the trust between Avani and Barney but also further solidifies Joel’s control over her perception of events.

The situation reaches a boiling point when Joel “seizes the opportunity to make a move on Avani while they smoke weed together.” This predatory behavior raises serious concerns about Joel’s intentions and the potential danger Avani faces.

The question looms large: “Should Barney worry for his friend?” The answer, based on Joel’s escalating pattern of manipulation, deceit, and disregard for Avani’s well-being, is a resounding yes.

This spoiler paints a chilling portrait of Joel Marshall, a character whose initial charm masks a darker, more sinister nature. His actions threaten to isolate Avani from her loved ones, compromise her safety, and exploit her vulnerability. As Barney witnesses these disturbing developments, he is compelled to take a stand, but his efforts may be undermined by Joel’s manipulative tactics. The unfolding drama raises critical questions about trust, manipulation, and the lengths to which someone will go to exert control over another.