'EastEnders' fans were left stunned on Monday (30 May) night, when it was revealed returnee Lauren Branning was in a relationship with Steven Beale.
Jacqueline Jossa's character left the BBC soap last year, departing for New Zealand with Peter Beale, after they learned they were expecting a baby together.
However, it seems during her time away from Albert Square, Lauren has left Peter for his half-brother, who the pair had been staying with in New Zealand.
A scene that aired during the latest episode saw the pair sharing a kiss, as they discussed their relationship.
The revelation led many viewers to take to Twitter to share their surprise at the shock storyline, with many in disbelief that Lauren had cheated on Peter.
Fans were especially surprised at the revelation, given that when Steven - played by Aaron Sidwell - was last in Walford, he was confused about his sexuality, making a pass at Christian Cooke after a failed relationship with Stacey Slater.
Speculation has also begun that his sexuality is a topic that could be revisited, after he and gay character Johnny Carter shared a moment in The Vic.
While Lauren and Steven have both returned to Walford in the wake of Bobby Beale's attack on Jane and his admission he killed sister Lucy, Peter failed to reappear, as actor Ben Hardy is now a Hollywood star, appearing in the new 'X Men' film, 'Apocalypse'.
Aaron previously teased his return to the soap, telling viewers to there would be some surprises in store from his character.
He told The Sun: "It's not going to be what people expect with Steven. There is going to be lots of surprises and fun."
Steven was introduced as the son of Ian and Cindy when he was born in 1989, but it was later revealed his real father was Simon Wicks, who Cindy had been having an affair with.
Aaron took over the role of Steven for a year's stint in 2007, which saw the character attempt to suffocate grandmother Pat Butcher, kidnap Ian and shoot stepmum Jane, leaving her unable to have children of her own.
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