The somber atmosphere of Martin Fowler’s funeral has become a breeding ground for manipulation and hidden agendas, as Ross’s true intentions for Vicki’s unexpected return to Albert Square begin to unravel. What was initially perceived as a supportive gesture for his grieving girlfriend is rapidly revealed to be a calculated scheme, driven by financial desperation and a desire to exploit the Watts and Beale fortunes.

Vicki’s arrival, alongside her new boyfriend Ross and his son Joel, sent shockwaves through the Square, particularly for Sharon and Alfie. Sharon, already grappling with the loss of her brother, is immediately suspicious of Ross, sensing an underlying unease that transcends mere grief. Alfie, meanwhile, is thrown into disarray by the revelation that Vicki has moved on from his brother Spencer, adding another layer of emotional turmoil to an already fraught situation.

However, the true catalyst for Ross’s manipulative plan is his precarious financial situation. He’s not in Walford for sentiment; he’s here to bleed the Square dry. His brazen attempts to solicit money from Sharon and Ian Beale are not mere acts of desperation; they are calculated moves, designed to exploit their grief and generosity. Sharon, ever vigilant, confronts Vicki, sensing that something is amiss. The tension between the sisters escalates, as Vicki, perhaps blinded by her affection for Ross, defends his actions, creating a rift that threatens to deepen the family’s already fragile bonds.

The day of Martin’s funeral arrives, a poignant moment of mourning that becomes a stage for Ross’s machinations. He insists on attending, claiming concern for Vicki, but his presence only fuels Alfie’s anger and Sharon’s suspicion. Post-funeral, Ross attempts to smooth things over with Sharon, offering a hollow apology for upsetting Alfie. Sharon, however, is not easily swayed. She sees through his charm, recognizing the calculated nature of his words.

A pivotal moment arrives with a mysterious phone call, a conversation that solidifies Ross’s resolve to keep Vicki in Walford. He’s aware of her planned departure, the flights already booked for their return, and he knows he needs to act quickly. Unable to convince her directly, he resorts to manipulation, targeting Ian Beale as a pawn in his scheme.

Ross subtly plants seeds of doubt in Ian’s mind, suggesting that Vicki’s responsibility lies not with her grieving mother, Michelle, but with Mark Jr. He implies that Mark Jr. should step up and shoulder the burden, freeing Vicki to remain in Walford. This calculated move preys on Ian’s sense of familial duty and his desire to protect his own interests. He is subtly manipulated into believing that keeping Vicki in Walford will benefit him and Mark Jr.

The effectiveness of Ross’s manipulation is revealed when Vicki receives a call from Michelle. The content of the call, though not explicitly shown, suggests that Ross’s machinations have influenced the situation, creating a scenario that necessitates Vicki’s extended stay. It is heavily implied that Ross has somehow manipulated the information that Michelle is receiving, possibly by using Joel to feed false information to Michelle, or even by directly contacting Michelle under a false identity.

This begs the question: why is Ross so desperate to keep Vicki in Walford? The answer lies in his financial desperation. He sees the Square as a potential goldmine, a place where he can exploit the wealth and generosity of its residents. He knows that Vicki’s presence is his key to accessing this wealth. His plan involves keeping Vicki in Walford, slowly gaining the trust of Sharon and Ian, and then, when the time is right, executing his financial scheme.

The implications are chilling. Is Vicki merely a pawn in Ross’s game? Is she aware of his true intentions, or is she blinded by love and trust? The tension escalates as Sharon grapples with her suspicions, determined to protect her sister from Ross’s clutches. And Ian, unknowingly manipulated, becomes a catalyst in Ross’s plan, potentially sealing Vicki’s fate.

The question remains: will Vicki succumb to Ross’s manipulations, or will she see through his facade and escape his grasp? And will Sharon, with her unwavering determination, be able to expose Ross’s sinister plan before it’s too late? The stakes are high, and the future of Vicki and the residents of Walford hangs in the balance, as Ross’s web of deceit tightens its grip, trapping Vicki in a dangerous game of manipulation and financial exploitation.