EastEnders fans might have assumed the soap was gearing up to a full-blown affair between

Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins) and Junior Knight (Micah Balfour) – but there’s a twist in store next week.

The pair recently enjoyed a night of passion in Beales’ Eels (of all places) behind Ian Beale’s

(Adam Woodyatt) back. While Cindy insisted their steamy encounter was a one-off mistake, Junior has thought otherwise, and it is clear there is still chemistry between them. However, in forthcoming scenes, Junior’s attention is diverted as he grows closer to Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa).

At the start of the week, Junior and Lauren get off on a bad foot when she is offended by Junior’s suggestion her son Louie might be struggling at school. An apology and a drink at The Vic later, it seems bridges have been built, and Junior offers to put Lauren in touch with someone to help with Louie. Later in the week, it becomes apparent there is a spark between the pair, which also risks upsetting Peter Beale (Thomas Law), who is desperate to rekindle his relationship with Lauren.

But just as Junior is getting closer to Lauren, Cindy’s relationship with Ian looks to be in trouble, as she and son Peter become aware he is hiding a secret from them. After they covertly follow him to a random address, it’s not long before there’s a shock for the Beale family. With Cindy known for her jealous streak and her romance with Ian on rocky ground, who knows just what she could do next…