The somber occasion of Martin Fowler’s funeral ignites a firestorm of emotions in Walford, as deep-seated resentments and long-buried secrets erupt into a deadly conflict between Stacey Slater and Ruby Allen. The aftermath of the Queen Vic explosion, which claimed Martin’s life, casts a long shadow over the Square, setting the stage for a dramatic showdown that will leave lives shattered.

The week begins with Stacey’s chaotic return, stumbling home drunk and emotionally distraught. Her arrival infuriates Lily, who has been struggling to hold the family together in Martin’s absence. “She feels terrible, but all she wants to do is escape how she’s feeling, so she’s drinking to forget,” explains Lacy Turner, who portrays Stacey. Lily, forced to step up and care for her younger siblings, harbors deep resentment towards her mother.

Sonia Fowler attempts to intervene, trying to sober Stacey up, but is met with a devastating revelation: Stacey cannot face Martin’s funeral. The emotional toll of Martin’s death, coupled with the secret of their final moments together, proves too much for her to bear.

As Martin’s loved ones gather to say their final goodbyes, Ruby’s anger and resentment towards Stacey reach a fever pitch. The tension explodes at the wake, setting the stage for a volatile confrontation at the allotment. During the heated exchange, shocking revelations emerge, shattering any hope of reconciliation between the two women.

Meanwhile, Lily, seeking escape from her grief, turns to alcohol with encouragement from her friend Avani Nandra-Hart. Stacey, discovering her daughter’s intoxication, attempts to make amends, but her efforts are met with rejection. The rift between mother and daughter deepens, fueled by grief and resentment.

The situation escalates further when Martin’s market stall is set ablaze. Stacey, witnessing the destruction of a symbol of Martin’s life, vows to find the arsonist and exact revenge. Despite Jack Branning’s warnings to leave the investigation to the police, Stacey is convinced she has identified the culprit and prepares to confront them.

As tensions reach a boiling point, Ruby makes the drastic decision to leave Walford. The animosity between her and Stacey has become unbearable, creating an untenable situation. “It’s such an awkward situation,” says Lacy. “Stacey has tried to keep the truth from Ruby so she doesn’t get hurt, but it’s hard not to feel resentful of her. Any little thing can lead to an argument.”

Jean Slater pleads with Stacey to make amends before it’s too late, but her advice falls on deaf ears. When Stacey finally decides to confront Ruby, Zack Hudson delivers the devastating news: Ruby has already left.

The question looms: will Stacey and Ruby ever find closure? The fire, a symbol of destruction and loss, casts a dark shadow over Walford, threatening to consume the remaining bonds of family and friendship. The secrets and resentments that have festered in the wake of Martin’s death threaten to erupt into a deadly conflict, leaving the residents of Walford to grapple with the consequences of their actions.