Vicki’s return to Albert Square was initially prompted by the heartbreaking funeral of her uncle, Martin Fowler. Accompanied by her new partner, Ross, and his son, Joel, Vicki’s arrival sparked immediate confusion amongst the locals, many of whom still believed she was in a relationship with Alfie Moon’s younger brother, Spencer. It quickly became apparent, however, that Vicki and Ross were facing serious financial difficulties, deeply entrenched in debt. In a moment of familial generosity, Vicki’s sister, Sharon Watts, stepped in, agreeing to loan the couple the substantial sum they desperately needed.

However, a crucial piece of information was later revealed to viewers, adding a layer of deceit to the situation: the debt wasn’t actually Vicki and Ross’s to begin with; it belonged to Ross’s son, Joel. This revelation hinted at underlying tensions and potential manipulation within the newly arrived trio.

As Monday arrives, the day of Martin’s funeral, Ross makes the decision to support Vicki at the solemn service. This gesture, while seemingly supportive, raises concerns for Sharon, who fears it will only exacerbate Alfie Moon’s already simmering anger towards Ross. Sharon’s apprehension appears to be well-founded, as Ross is soon seen attempting to smooth things over with her after an earlier altercation with Alfie. However, Sharon makes it unequivocally clear that she is not easily swayed by his charm and smooth talking.

Following the funeral, a mysterious phone call sets in motion a chain of events that will drastically alter Vicki’s plans. After this enigmatic conversation, Ross becomes determined to convince Vicki that they should extend their stay in Walford far beyond their initial intentions. This proposition faces significant resistance from Vicki, who has already made concrete arrangements to return home to Australia, booking their flights.

Realizing the difficulty of persuading Vicki directly, Ross resorts to more manipulative tactics. He sets his sights on Ian Beale, attempting to coerce him into persuading Vicki that staying in Walford longer is the best course of action. Ross, ever the schemer, is clearly working an angle, but his motivations for wanting to remain in Walford remain shrouded in secrecy, adding another layer of intrigue to his character.

Meanwhile, back in Australia, Vicki’s mother, Michelle Fowler, is still struggling to come to terms with the devastating loss of her brother, Martin. Sensing an opportunity to further his agenda, Ross subtly insinuates to Ian Beale that it is not Vicki who needs to be in Australia to support her mother, but rather her half-brother, Mark Fowler Jr. Ross’s calculated words appear to be aimed at diverting attention away from Vicki’s planned return and planting seeds of doubt in Ian’s mind about her responsibilities back home.

Ross’s manipulative plan seems to bear fruit when Vicki receives a significant phone call from her mother in Australia. The details of this conversation remain under wraps, but the timing, coming directly after Ross’s conversation with Ian, strongly suggests that Ross’s interference has had a direct impact on the situation. The content of this call is the massive curveball that throws Vicki’s meticulously planned departure into complete chaos.

Whatever Michelle reveals during this crucial phone call, it is significant enough to make Vicki seriously reconsider her immediate plans to return to Australia. Did Ross manage to convince Ian to influence Michelle? Did Michelle reveal a new and pressing family matter that requires Vicki’s presence, or perhaps even makes her return to Australia impossible in the short term? The possibilities are rife with dramatic potential.

This unexpected turn of events leaves Vicki in a precarious position. Her desire to return to her life in Australia, presumably away from the drama and complexities of Walford, is now directly challenged. She is seemingly being pulled back into the orbit of her family and the unpredictable nature of life on the square, all orchestrated by the manipulative Ross and a mysterious phone call.

The consequences of this curveball are yet to be fully revealed, but one thing is certain: Vicki’s plans are now in tatters. Will she be forced to remain in Walford indefinitely? Will the true nature of Ross’s motives for wanting to stay be exposed? And how will this unexpected delay impact her relationship with Ross and her already strained dynamic with her sister, Sharon?

This week in EastEnders promises to be filled with tension, manipulation, and a significant shift in Vicki Fowler’s storyline. The legacy character’s return, initially for a somber occasion, is now taking an unexpected and potentially permanent turn, all thanks to Ross’s scheming and a life-altering phone call. Fans will be on the edge of their seats to see how Vicki navigates this unforeseen obstacle and what the future holds for her in Walford. Make sure you tune in for all the dramatic developments!