EastEnders has set the stage for another passionate affair as Jack Branning, portrayed by actor Scott Maslen, opted for a rendezvous with Stacey Slater over providing support to his wife, Denise.

Jack, a police detective in the BBC soap, had previously engaged in a one-night stand with Stacey last year. In a recent episode, their paths crossed once more, igniting a new affair.

Denise, grappling with the looming possibility of Nish going to the police and exposing the truth about Keanu’s death, found herself unable to face the courtroom during the guardianship hearing for baby Charli. Overwhelmed by the situation, she confided to Jack that she couldn’t go through with it, stating, “I can’t.”

“I can’t pretend anymore,” she added before hastily exiting, leaving Jack to face the hearing alone. In the courtroom, with Denise absent, Jack couldn’t resist reaching out to Stacey, attempting to hold her hand.

Although she rebuffed his advances, the evening took an unexpected turn. After the hearing, Jack celebrated with the Slaters at their home. While Ricky and Amy eventually departed, Jack remained, assisting Stacey with tidying the kitchen.

As is often the case in the tumultuous world of EastEnders, the kitchen chores gave way to a passionate encounter. Jack confessed, “I like being here,” to Stacey, leading to passionate kisses and an intimate encounter in bed, solidifying another shocking affair in the EastEnders storyline.

Stacey confronted Jack about the nature of their relationship, asking him, “Tell me the truth, is this just another one-off?”

Jack’s response was unequivocal: “No, this is real. This is what I want.”

Meanwhile, across Albert Square, Denise was discovered sobbing alone in bed by her daughter Amy, who offered to stay with her until Jack returned. The revelation of Jack’s infidelity adds yet another layer of drama to the ongoing EastEnders storyline, leaving viewers eagerly anticipating the repercussions that will follow.