In the heart of Walford, where secrets unravel faster than pints are poured, the most unexpected love story begins with a microphone, a glass of red wine, and a man known only by one name: Shrimpy.

After years of quietly selling wares and blending into the background of Bridge Street Market, Shrimpy — known for his mod haircut, signature hats, and ever-present smile — finally steps into the spotlight. The occasion? A poorly planned karaoke night at The Queen Vic, orchestrated by Elaine Knight with the ulterior motive of sabotaging Cindy Beale’s relaunch of The Albert. What was meant to be a tactical move in Walford’s eternal business rivalries becomes something far more heartwarming.

As the night trudges along awkwardly, with regulars and onlookers sipping drinks more out of politeness than enthusiasm, Shrimpy rises. The crowd goes still. No one expects what comes next. Taking the mic in hand, he belts out Van Morrison’s timeless love song “Have I Told You Lately.” But this isn’t just a nostalgic ballad; it’s a serenade — directed straight at Marie Evans, the quiet café attendant who’s served up teas and bacon sarnies since the year 2000.

Marie — long relegated to the edges of storylines, known mainly for her calm demeanor and a bizarre incident involving Ian Beale stealing her birthing video — now becomes the center of attention. As Shrimpy sings, she sways gently to the melody, wine glass in hand, her eyes sparkling with a warmth that Walford rarely sees.

In the background, Linda Carter raises an eyebrow, Johnny Carter and Felix Baker glance between each other in disbelief, and Elaine… well, she’s more concerned about the lack of custom in her pub than the love story blooming beneath her nose.

As the night unfolds, Shrimpy and Marie find themselves laughing and chatting, no longer hidden in the corners of the Queen Vic. Their chemistry is sweet, awkward, and unmistakably genuine. In a place defined by scandals and betrayals, their connection feels like a rare kind of magic.

Meanwhile, chaos brews elsewhere. George Knight admits to funding Cindy Beale’s successful bar relaunch, igniting Elaine’s fury. She storms out, feeling betrayed. George is left to clean up the mess — quite literally — by returning to The Albert to apologise. His quiet, almost guilty gesture doesn’t go unnoticed by Cindy.

Back at the Vic, however, love lingers. Shrimpy and Marie cozy up in a booth while the rest of Walford argues and plots. Patrick and Yolande break into song, closing the night with “It Started With A Kiss.” And for Shrimpy and Marie, that’s exactly what it feels like — the beginning of something real.

It’s the kind of subplot no one saw coming, but one that might just restore our faith in love on the Square.