Opening Song: ‘Children Of The Universe’ by Molly

The episode begins with a montage, recapping recent events. Brad is seen holding a family photo in the palm of his hands, before scrunching it up and putting it in his pocket while sitting in the cell. It moves to Gracie sitting in front of her mirror fixing her hair, trying to prepare herself for the court. It then moves to Ciara lying in Alex’s bed smiling to herself. It then comes to an end as Tara sits staring into space, still reeling from Vanessa’s revelation the following night. Vanessa places her hand on Tara’s shoulder, but Tara shrugs it off and continues to stare blankly, as Vanessa looks at her worriedly. “I should have told you, I know. But I just couldn’t bring myself to do it.” Vanessa sighs, as she sits on the sofa across from her. Tara doesn’t speak, as she rubs her red eyes from having absolutely no sleep the night before. “Please say something, you’ve not said a word since I told you.” Vanessa pleads as she looks at her full of guilt and concern. Tara continues to sit silently, as Vanessa runs her hand through her hair stressfully, telling her she can’t tell her how sorry she is. Tara gulps and closes her eyes tight, before opening them and staring coldly at Vanessa. “Why didn’t you tell me? Were you just going to let me walk around oblivious that my dad is basically living around the corner! You told me he was dead!” Tara rants at Vanessa, letting everything out after a night of silence. “I didn’t know how to tell you! You seemed so happy and I didn’t want to throw such a big bombshell to ruin everything!” Vanessa tells her, panicking as Tara digs her nails into the sofa sobbing. “How did it happen? Was it just a one night stand? Was I a mistake?” Tara interrogates as she tries to control herself. “No! Of course you weren’t!” Vanessa says shocked, before rushing and sitting next to her. Tara tries to fight her off as she attempts to hug her, but ends up breaking down in her arms as Vanessa fights back her own tears trying to console her.

Sandy sits staring at the plate of toast, as she can’t bring herself to eat it. “You’ve got to eat something Sandy.” Dwayne tells her while sighing as he enters the kitchen. “I’m not hungry.” Sandy abruptly says. “You can’t go on like this Sandy.” Dwayne says as he sits across from her, looking at her worriedly. “Why not? My sons in a cell and my daughter would rather stay with two grieving woman rather than stay in her own home!” Sandy snaps angrily, as she throws the plate of toast across the room in anger. Dwayne looks at her concerned as she digs her nails into the table and begins to break down in front of him. He goes over to her and puts his arm around her to hug him as she sobs her eyes out. “How did our lives become such a mess eh? Everything is ruined!” Sandy cries in Dwayne’s arms, “I wish we could just get up and leave and forget this ever happened!” Sandy continues, as Dwayne comes up with an idea. “We could.” Dwayne blurts out. “What do you mean?” Sandy questions as she wipes her tears. “Well…we could just leave.” Dwayne suggests, and Sandy looks at him puzzled. “Just uproot and go?” Sandy says confused. “What’s keeping us here? Gracie can come with us, and IF Brad gets free, he can come also.” Dwayne says. Sandy smiles, as she likes the idea of them leaving. “I’ll think about it…” Sandy says, before going upstairs to get dressed for the 2nd day of court.

Ciara smiles to herself as she lies in Alex’s bed, as he is showering in the en suite bathroom. She rolls across the bed, and picks up her phone to find 5 missed calls from Janice, and a voicemail. She puts the phone to her ear and listens to Janice’s voicemail. Janice’s voice is heard on the other line, telling her that Lillie is looking for her and that she can’t sleep. Ciara sighs and puts the phone down, before climbing out of the bed and picking up her top from the floor and putting it on. She walks over to the mirror and begins to brush her hair, as Alex emerges from the bathroom in a towel drying himself, before questioning her on where she is going. “I’ve got to go home, Lillie’s stressing mum out and I shouldn’t really have stayed the night.” Ciara giggles as she finishes her sentence. “Well…it was worth it, wasn’t it?” Alex smirks as he grabs her by the waist and kisses her passionately. “I shouldn’t…” Ciara says giggling. “But you want too.” Alex smirks, before they both fall onto the bed kissing passionately. In the other room, Stacey sits nervously as Lucas lies on the bed calmly. “I’m sorry about last night, I just couldn’t do it.” Stacey says, referring to off-screen events the night before as she refused to sleep with him. “It’s alright, I’m not judging.” Lucas smiles as he gets up from the bed and walks over to her. “I don’t know what came over me, I just....” Stacey says nervously. “Don’t beat yourself up about it.” Lucas laughs, before kissing her on the cheek and leaving the room. Stacey sits nervously on the chair, knowing she has disappointed him.

Wendy sits with her head in her hands as she thinks about Jack’s funeral next week. Gracie and Frankie come downstairs, and notify her that they need to go to the court. “I’m going to give it a miss today, if that’s okay?” Wendy asks worriedly as she sits at the dining table. Frankie nods, telling her that she doesn’t need to go anyway. “I’ll give you two some space.” Gracie tells them, before opening the front door and leaving. Frankie kneels down by the table, asking Wendy if everything is okay. “I’m fine, it’s me that should be asking you that.” Wendy smiles as she takes her hand. “I really respect what you’re doing Frankie for Gracie, you really are a great friend to her.” Wendy tells her, smiling. Frankie smiles, before telling her to call her if she needs anything, then leaving the house. Wendy sits alone in the kitchen, looking around her and sighing. She looks up at the family photo on the wall, and it dawns on her that she hasn’t told Susan about Jack’s sudden death. She rushes to the phone stressing out as she dials her mobile number. Susan’s voice is heard on the other line as she picks up, but Wendy freezes, before slamming the phone down and breaking into tears.

Tara sits in the corner of the bathroom huddled up as the shower continues to run. The shower fumes whirl around the place, as she continues to sit silently trying to get her head around what Vanessa told her. Vanessa knocks on the door gently, asking her if everything is alright. Tara doesn’t reply, as she continues to sit staring into space. “Tara? Please talk to me hun.” Vanessa pleads from outside in the hallway, however Tara ignores her. “I didn’t mean for it to come out like this Tara, but I had to do something before…it got too far.” Vanessa sighs as she places her hand on the door worriedly. Tara turns off the shower and opens the door to a worried Vanessa. Vanessa looks at her sympathetically, before hugging her tightly as Tara breaks down in her arms again.

It’s the second day of Brad Foster’s trial and emotions are running high for each party involved. Gracie stares coldly at Sandy as she passes by her heading for the courtroom. Eva and Frankie stand next to her nervously waiting to be called in. “Good luck. You can do this.” Frankie tells her as she hugs her tightly, before walking into the spectator stand with Eva. Gracie sits nervously on the bench, as she waits to be called into the courtroom. In the courtroom, the judge goes over previous events in the case, before then calling Miss Gracie Foster into the courtroom. Sandy’s heart sinks as she watches her daughter come into the room and walking to the witness stand to testify against her own brother. Gracie stands nervously shaking as she waits to be questioned by Brad’s defendant. She looks over at Brad, as he sits looking anxiously at her. She looks at him with a disgusted look on her face, before turning away to look back at his defendant. “Miss Gracie Foster, the sister of Brad everyone.” The defendant begins. “Can you firstly tell the court what happened on the 11th April 2014, when my client apparently strangled Miss Cole, then took you in a car and drove you off a hill.” The defendant continues. “You just did, didn’t you?” Gracie rudely remarks, and the defendant raises her eyebrow while smirking. “Can you describe what happened then? What was said between you and your brother?” The defendant interrogates, as Gracie begins to get more nervous.

“He..he was out on the pier, strangling my friend. I ran up, pulled him off of her and pulled down his hood, and there he was, my brother the strangler.” Gracie exclaims to the court as the jury look at her shocked. “He tried to escape, but I couldn’t let him get away that easily. I got into the car when he was trying to get away, I phoned the police without him knowing and then we ended up in a police chase, resulting in a small car crash, but still dangerous.” Gracie continues to say, as Brad’s defendant tries to find some notes. “Is it not possible that both you and Miss Cole were so under the influence of alcohol, that you are imagining the strangling and instead you were drink-driving with your brother?” The defendant hits back. “Is that what he told you?” Gracie says, stunned. “I’m not required to hand out that information.” The defendant tells her, as Gracie stares at him disgusted. “No way is that true. He tried to kill us both, he’s dangerous, he needs locked up! Don’t listen to what she says, she’s lying!” Gracie screams at the jury in panic. “No further questions.” Brad’s defendant remarks as she sits herself down, smirking that she has tore apart Gracie’s testament. Two guards take down Gracie, as she continues to plead with the jury. Gracie stands in the corridor, before being hugged by Eva and Frankie tightly as they also rush out the courtroom. “I’m so sorry.” Eva tells her sympathetically. “It’s not your fault. God I’m so angry right now, he’s going to walk free tomorrow now isn’t he?” Gracie says angrily. “I think we need a drink..” Eva remarks, and the two nod at her before walking out the courthouse with her. Sandy and Dwayne come out of the courtroom, as Sandy tells him she wishes she could have stopped Gracie doing that. “It was so painful to watch, Sandy you should have made Brad tell the truth.” Dwayne tells her angrily. Sandy sighs as Dwayne walks away from her, leaving her standing alone in the corridor sighing again like yesterday.

Vanessa walks back into the flat, having went out to get some food for dinner, to find Tara throwing her clothes back into the suitcase. “What’s going on?” Vanessa questions, putting down the shopping bags in shock. “I want you gone!” Tara shouts at her as she viciously throws her clothes into the suitcase. “I’m not going anywhere, I’m not leaving you in this state!” Vanessa shouts back at her, as she rushes to take her clothes out of the suitcase. “I don’t want you here! Go home!” Tara screams angrily as she throws the last of her clothes into the suitcase. Vanessa looks at her in shock, pleading with her not to do this. Tara shoves Vanessa out the front door and throws her suitcase out with her. “I thought we were fine, I thought we were going to get through this!” Vanessa shouts in the close, as Stacey and Ciara emerge from Lucas and Alex’s flat, looking at them both curiously. “If you think I’m going to just play happy families with you like this, you told me my dad was dead! How could you do that to me!” Tara screams angrily. “I did it to protect you, please Tara!” Vanessa pleads, but Tara stares at her coldly, before slamming the door in her face. Stacey and Ciara stand with their arms folded, staring at Vanessa as she picks up her clothes from the floor and puts it into her suitcase. “Should we do something?” Stacey asks, but Ciara shakes her head, telling her it’s none of their business. Vanessa slowly walks down the stairs of the close, constantly looking back hoping for Tara to come back out and let her in. Inside the flat, Tara sits banging her head softly against the wall as tears stream down her face.

Brad sits in his cell, holding his family photo in his hands as he sighs. “You requested to see me?” Brad’s lawyer says as she enters the cell as the guard stands at the door. Brad looks up at her and nods, as she stands suspiciously. “I want to take to the stand tomorrow.” Brad requests, and his lawyer stands rattled by his request. “Why? What good will that do? I’m so close to getting you freedom.” His lawyer insists, trying to change his mind. “I want to take to the stand, people need to know what really happened…” Brad sternly tells her, as the episode ends.

Cast List (11 Regulars, 1 Recurring, 2 Guests)

Fantastic episode of Digital Lane, you keep on improving every episode and it's absolutely wonderful to see! I can really feel the stories progressing as time goes on, you clearly have a passion for Digital Lane and it's easy to see, I'd like to congratulate you on nearly achieving the 100 episode mark, it really shows that you were extremely determined to progress Digital Lane and make it a success and I'd just like to tell you how much that the hard work and determination you put into Digital Lane pays off. I look forward avidly to reading Digital Lane, it's become part of my routine and I really should be in bed now instead of reading and feedbacking, but I just couldn't keep away! I can envision everything you write because your vocabulary is intricately posted, I just love everything! The plots you include are fantastic, the characters you pick to represent each episodes are very finely decided on and really fit the stories well, it's great that a different set of characters dominates at different times, that's a testament to your writing as well as the way that you portray the soap as a whole. You really are a fabulous writer SoapAddict101, well done on this recent episode!

Poor Gracie in court. I feel so sorry for her, she started off so brassy and sassy and confident, but Brad's lawyer really tore her apart. It's sad that lawyers often get their clients off on technicalities, it's clear that two girls can't be so drunk that they both dream up that their 'friend' strangled them both and caused one of them to be involved in a series car accident. Brad is a fabulous and evil and cocky character, I really wish he'd just die or get put behind bars, make one of them happen! I'm glad that he is now showing remorse for what he has done and now wants to take the stand to set the record straight, that should be good to see and I hope that he does the right thing in the end like Janine did in EastEnders a few months back. Frankie and Eva are a great support link for Gracie, they make a great little trio, it's sad that Sandy and Dwayne aren't as supportive to their own daughter as they are to their son and he's the one that killed somebody and strangled countless others. I am loving that the exit story is beginning to come into play, it seems ages since we talked about it and I didn't know whether it was still happening or not. Wendy's little scene was fantastic this episode, her turmoil over breaking the news to Susan was horrible, I think Frankie will end up doing it soon though as it is her mother and the funeral is next week after all!

Tara/Vanessa/Karl aftermath was fantastic. I'm liking that the story will give Tara's character some unique layering as soon as she's joined the show, I'm loving how she handles situations already, she's very dramatic and feminine like and I love the way she deals with situations, I can see her becoming one of the leading females. She's young and very successful with a lively described modern flat which I think will hope her on her road to success, I liked how the revelation made many things run through her head like whether she was a mistake or wanted and I think Vanessa coped very well with all her questions but ultimately I think Tara needed space and she will come to regret the way she pushed her mother out of the flat and slammed the door in her face, no matter how much she annoyed her I think Tara made the wrong decision. I think Ciara and Stacey being with Alex and Lucas is interesting, gives them something to do and like I said makes them more realistic for young girls to mess around with boys and form friendship groups, Ciara shouldn't forget that she has Lillie though and Janince waiting back home, I think that was a bit immature of Ciara in all honesty! Fabulous episode SoapAddict101, you out-do yourself every time!

Another brilliant episode! All the court stuff and the different dramas surrounding it are really well-thought out and I'm enjoying every single moment of it. As I just said, you've clearly put a lot of effort into planning and done a lot of research into court proceedings so your able to create a atmosphere as similiar to a typical courtroom as possible. All the storylines are paced really well and you tackle lots of different issues and present them much more better and realistic than the actual Soaps on TV, which proves how good a writer you actually are. Also, the fact your able to keep certain storylines under wraps so you can shock your audience shows signs of a good producer as well. I also like how you've began to introduce opening songs, I used to do that but I decided to stop it but it's still nice to see, the opening montage is also useful as it gives a small yet effective overview of all the episodes storylines and events and helps you understand in what way they are going to be progressing.

The Tara and Victoria drama was really exciting to read, it's understandable Tara didn't want to speak to her and just wanted to block out the world, as well as her asking questions like if she was a mistake and why her mum lied her dad was dead, must be a very confusing and difficult time for her. Sorry if this is actually what's happening, but I kind of hope the Tara/Karl reveal isn't dragged out as I'm excited to see his reaction (I'm presuming he doesn't know about her?) Again, I think it was understandable how Tara just wanted to be alone and so she chucked all her mothers clothes into a suitcase and told her to leave. This has put Tara right at the forefront and I'm glad, I can also really imagine Jacqueline Jossa playing the character and acting out her actions, which is always a bonus! I think it's going to take a while for their mother and daughter relationship to heal and I'm exciting to see even more of the story unfold. Tara's your best newcomer so far and I like how her personality and mannerisms stand out too.

The points Brads defendant made like Gracie and Frankie being really under the influence of alcohol were really unrealistic and far-fetched IMO, so I wanted Gracie to point that out and try and gain back some of the control but I imagine it must be terrifying standing up there infront of all those people, partly deciding someone's fate and whether they will get life in prison. She tried her hardest, but like Frankie the confidence she had beforehand was just torn apart and diminished. Dwayne was so right, Sandy should have made Brad tell the truth and Dwayne's a really interesting character in the sense he is the voice of reason (like I've said before) and if he disagrees with someone's actions he tends to speak up. I think Dwayne suggesting they should just leave is a good idea in my opinion, as the more Sandy fights for Brad the more the other residents will turn against her. They've definitely been a very interesting family though! Wendy's little scene was horrible to read to, but really well-written. She's clearly dreading the funeral more than anything and I'm pleased Susan has not been forgotten.

The character that stood out for me today has to be Gracie, despite the fact in some parts she stuttered and struggled a little, I think overall she was stronger than Frankie and voiced her opinions a little more. I'm glad she's not leaving with Dwayne and Sandy! always adore your work SA.

Absolutely amazing episodes of Digital Lane recently and I have to say, Gracie is a fantastic character. You never fail to impress me SA and since January, your writing has improved massively. Your dialogue and description is a perfect balance as you manage to not outdo one of each and your storylines and characters are just too unexplainable. Everything about this soap is fantastic.

I am really liking Gracie at the moment because like Cal mentioned, Gracie is preserved to be a strong woman who fights her own battles and never gets down but from seeing the trial, I can see that it's getting to her. Accusing someone of drink driving is a heavy accusation as normally you can get proof and if the police suspect something, they will stop you and check you out. Of course Brad's lawyer was just trying to make Gracie in the wrong and I think that's unfair and unrealistic as surely he would have had to get proof first and then ask the judge if he can show it and mention it? Never less the storyline is great and really strong. I can see Gracie almost being diagnosed with a mental illness if it gets to her and the pressure is too much as it would be great to see her pitfall and see how she copes with it. I am loving Gracie like I mentioned.

Another fantastic part of Digital Lane is the dynamic between Tara and Victoria. Normally in real life and soaps, the daughter or son is normally the more shy, scared one and the mother or father is the outgoing and louder one. The fact that Tara is standing up to her mother is great as Tara is a successful young businesswoman and very strong and confident so it works well with her character. She delivers in all of her scenes and it goes to show thanks to your fantastic storylines. I may have missed it but if it hasn't happened yet, I'd love to see Tara and Victoria's backstory to see how it all happened. Maybe Victoria used to hit Tara or something and this is why Tara is more louder.

I can't make my mind up about Brad. I think he's a great character but not my favourite.

Well done SA, your work is always great to read and you can read your episode so easily.

Thank you everybody for the detailed feedback.

Opening Song: ‘Undo’ by Sanna Nielsen

The episode begins with a montage with the first shot being of Tara standing in a darkened kitchen, as she pours herself a glass of water from the tap, before gulping it down worriedly. It moves to Sandy as she sits in the car anxiously, waiting to go to the court. She holds a family photo in the palm of her hands, as a tear drops from her eye onto it. It comes to an end with Wendy, stroking Jack’s suit on the door as she prepares to take it to the funeral directors. “That was his best one.” Frankie smiles as she walks in, but her smile slowly fades as she continues to stare at it. “I need to take it to the funeral directors today, so I’ll be late for the court.” Wendy mumbles, trying to hide her emotions from Frankie. “I don’t need to go to the court, I can come with you if you like.” Frankie tells her worriedly, noticing Wendy’s emotions are taking over. Wendy shakes her head, and tells her she will be fine. Frankie looks unconvinced, but makes nothing of it and walks upstairs to finish getting ready. Wendy heavily sighs as she feels the suit’s material, when there is a knock on the door and she rushes to get it. Geraldine stands smiling sympathetically, as Wendy lets her in. Geraldine raises her eyebrow as she looks at the suit hanging on the door, she sighs and turns to follow Wendy into the kitchen. “I hope you don’t mind me asking, but is that…Jack’s?” Geraldine enquires. Wendy nods silently, and Geraldine asks if she wants her to come with her. “No no, it’s fine.” Wendy insists. “I’ll at least drive you there, you’re in no fit state to drive Wendy.” Geraldine warns, and Wendy sighs before nodding in agreement. “I’m here to help you Wendy, all you need to do is ask.” Geraldine says, placing her hand on top of Wendy’s sympathetically.

Tara sighs as she looks at the 22 missed calls from her mother Vanessa, before declining another one as it pops up on the screen again. She gets up and walks out onto the balcony, which overlooks the business district. She looks down and sees Karl and Elaine walking along the street together, as Elaine opens up the Ivory Pond Café for Wendy. She shuts her eyes and takes a deep breath, before walking back into the flat and trying to think of what to do. Down at the café, Elaine is still bitter about the situation with Karl and Tara. “Do what you like Karl, I don’t care anymore.” Elaine remarks as she wipes some tables. “How long are you going to keep this up Elaine? It’s getting ridiculous now.” Karl tells her as he walks towards her. Elaine looks at him worriedly, and he takes her hand and smiles. “You need to know that I’m never going to leave you Elaine, all of this has to stop.” Karl informs her, and Elaine smiles before hugging him tightly. “I’m sorry, I just get worried you know.” Elaine sighs, and Karl nods. “You’re doing a really good thing, but I was just being a bitch about it.” Elaine continues, as she rests her head on Karl’s shoulder.

Sandy stands outside the court with Dwayne, waiting anxiously for the final day of court to begin. She is about to head inside, when something catches her eye from across the street. She turns on her heels and looks stunned, as she watches Brad’s old gang members cross the street and come towards her. “What the hell are they doing here?” Dwayne whispers to her. “I have no idea…” Sandy says, standing in clear shock. Sandy walks down the steps and glares at the leader of the large group. “What do you think you’re doing here eh?” Sandy snaps at him, and he stands back baffled. “We came for Brad, innit.” He tells her, and Sandy looks at him with disgust. “Absolutely no way am I letting you in there.” Sandy warns as she begins to get upset. “We wanna support him.” He tells her, and Sandy looks at him disapprovingly. “You are not going in there! He is my son, you have no right!” Sandy screams, as Dwayne comes over to help her. “Mrs Foster you can’t tell us what to do.” The leader rudely tells her, and Dwayne tries to pull Sandy away, but she stands her ground. “He would have never been so messed up if it wasn’t for all of you! You destroyed my son!” Sandy screams as she lashes out at the leader of the large gang. Dwayne pulls her away, as the leader storms off angrily with his gang. Sandy breaks down into tears in Dwayne’s arms, as Gracie and Frankie stand watching nervously in the distance.

Sophie sits in Minerva on her laptop, as Stacey wipes the tables clean trying to make conversation. “I’m so glad Geraldine gave me a job, I really need the money.” Stacey says awkwardly, as she can see Sophie couldn’t care less. “Are you sure you’re okay? You’ve been really distant lately.” Stacey asks concerned, as she sits on the chair across from her. “I’m fine, I’m just a bit stressed.” Sophie informs her, before turning her laptop round to show Stacey a graph that shows her business in London’s sales have fallen, and that it will take a miracle to save it. “I can’t bring myself to go back down there either, I know that it’s not got long to go before the debt collectors just shut the place down.” Sophie sighs as she puts her head into her hands. “If anyone can sort out a crisis like this, it’s you.” Stacey says reassuringly, but Sophie sits unconvinced. “I’m trying to just take my mind off of it for a while.” Sophie tells her and Stacey sighs, before turning around in her chair as Stephanie walks in distraught. “The community is completely torn, the heart has been ripped out of the place since Jack died, we need to do something to get the heart back into this place.” Stephanie tells them as she sits down at the table. Sophie beams as she comes up with an idea, “How about a festival? We could do it on the business district!” Stephanie looks at her as she considers the idea, before smiling and nodding. “The street is big enough for it, why not?” Stephanie smiles, and Sophie tells her she will get in contact with the council for permission. “Are you going to tell mum about what’s going on?” Stacey questions as Stephanie walks away to the bar. “I don’t want to worry her, she’s got enough on her plate.” Sophie warns sternly, before going back on her laptop.

Sandy and Dwayne stand in the court corridor, before being approached by Brad’s lawyer. “Mr and Mrs Foster, I’m afraid that Brad has demanded to take to the stand today, which may prolong the trial depending on what he will say.” She informs them, as their faces go pale. “What do you mean? What is he going to say?” Sandy asks quickly and worriedly. “I can’t predict what he will say, but we can only hope that it will be nothing that will jeopardize his chances of being freed.” The lawyer informs them, before walking inside the courtroom. Gracie and Frankie nervously walk by them, as Sandy shuts her eyes and takes a deep breath. “Do you think I should say something?” Gracie whispers to a distracted Frankie, who is clearly more concerned about Wendy back at home. “Frankie, you can just go home. Don’t worry about me, I can do this on my own.” Gracie smiles, but Frankie refuses telling her she’s been with her all through this week and she’s not backing out now. Gracie puts her arm around her and smiles, before walking into the courtroom with her as they begin to tell people court is beginning. “I’m not sure I can do this.” Sandy whispers to Dwayne worriedly. “Of course you can, you’re the strongest woman I know Sandy.” Dwayne tells her reassuringly, as he walks into the courtroom with her. Sandy looks down and sighs as she looks down at Brad, as he sits anxiously waiting to be called to the stand.

Tara walks along the business district, distracted as she stares at her phone texting someone when she bumps into Karl, who is coming out of the Estate Agents. Tara’s eyes widen as she stares at him, before gulping as he smiles at her. “So how’s the new place?” Karl asks cheerfully, as Tara stares at him blankly. “Eh…yeah it’s okay.” Tara says quickly, before rushing off down the street. Karl looks at her confused, before walking into the café where Rachel stands behind the counter daydreaming. Karl waves his hand in front of her face jokingly, as she shakes her head and opens her eyes wider. “Just thinking about this funeral on Monday.” Rachel sighs, before asking Karl what he wants. “Just a coffee thanks, I know I feel awful for Wendy and Frankie, they must be going through so much.” Karl replies, pulling out his wallet and searching for money. “It’s just brought back all the bad memories you know? Pauly, Natalie...” Rachel sighs, with tears beginning to form in her eyes. “The police still haven’t found Ant have they?” Karl asks, before instantly regretting bringing it up. “…No, not yet…but he’s no son of mine anymore.” Rachel hesitates, before wiping away the small tears forming and smiling as she hands Karl his coffee. “If…if you ever need to talk you can always come to me.” Karl smiles convincingly, before leaving the café. Rachel smiles faintly, as she slumps back down on the counter and goes back to daydreaming.

Geraldine and Wendy sit in the car outside the funeral directors, as Wendy sits staring blankly at it. “I can come in with you, if you like.” Geraldine says sympathetically, but Wendy politely declines. “I...I need to do this alone. I have to say goodbye one…one last time.” Wendy says, fighting back the tears. Geraldine lets out a faint smile, trying to not look worried in front of her. Wendy gets out the car and goes to the boot to collect Jack’s suit. She stares at it for a moment, as a tear slowly falls from her eye. She quickly wipes it off, and walks into the funeral directors as Geraldine sits worriedly in the car. She takes out her phone and scrolls through her pictures, before clicking one that shows a photo on her phone that she took of an old photo. It shows Geraldine, Jasmine, Stevie and Richard, Geraldine’s dead husband. She looks at it as tears begin to form in her eyes. “Geraldine you need to tell the truth.” Geraldine whispers to herself as she puts her head into her hands, trying to calm down.

Wendy stands in the funeral directors, after giving the suit to the funeral director. “Can…can I eh…can I see him?” Wendy asks as her lips begin to tremble. The funeral director nods, before disappearing so Wendy can brace herself for going into the rest room. She shuts her eyes and takes a deep breath, before slowly opening the door and entering. She stares in shock as Jack’s body lies in the coffin, under the natural light. She covers her mouth as she continues to stare at it from the doorway, before slowly approaching the body. She fixes his out of place hand, before bursting into tears as she continues to stare at his body. “Why did it have to be you eh? You were always the strong one in our relationship, yet now I’m the only one left here. I can’t care for Frankie on my own, she deserves so much better than what I can give her. I still can’t believe you’ve gone, I still go to call your name for breakfast every morning. I just don’t know how long I can do this for. I miss you so much, I need you in my life Jack. I just…can’t believe you’re gone.” Wendy says as tears run down her face quickly as she holds a lifeless Jack’s hand. The scene ends with a birds eye view of Wendy holding Jack’s lifeless hand in the coffin, before fading to black.

“The court now calls the accused Brad Foster to the stand, who has requested permission to take to the stand.” The judge announces, as Brad makes his way to the stand. He looks up at his family in the spectator stand, as Gracie glares at him meanwhile Dwayne and Sandy look at him worriedly. His attention moves to the CPS, as she gets ready to question him. “Mr Foster, you have requested to be able to take to the stand today, why?” She questions, as Brad begins to get nervous. “To tell the truth.” He informs her, and she raises her eyebrow as she looks at him. “Well, go on. Tell us the truth.” She says, smirking slightly. Brad looks at his family again, before taking a deep breath and sighing. “It was me! It was me! I done everything, I killed Elena. I tried to kill Frankie and Andie. I don’t know what was going through my head I just did it! I was in a bad way, I didn’t know what to do with my life, I just kept taking it out on these women. What I done was disgusting, and I know I deserve to be locked up for life, but I want to tell you that…well I’m sorry. It’s not much, but it comes from my heart.” Brad tells the court as tears form in his eyes, knowing he has ruined his chances and will be going down for the murder. The court sits in shock, as Sandy breaks down into tears meanwhile Gracie sits staring with complete shock as she stares at Brad. The court goes silent as the judge hesitates as he tries to work out what to say. Frankie breathes a sigh of relief, as she looks up to the ceiling and smiles, reminiscing about Jack. The jury whisper amongst themselves, Sandy sits with her eyes wide open as she awaits the verdict. “Mr Foster, following your confession, I have no other option other than to remand you in custody until a sentencing trial at a later date, however this sentencing is more than likely to be life imprisonment.” The judge informs him, as Sandy breaks down as she screams Brad’s name. He takes one last look at Sandy, Dwayne and Gracie, before mouthing the words ‘Sorry’ to them, and heading down with the guard as he heads back to the cells. “The jury is thanked for their time. Court is adjourned.” The judge announces as people begin to clear out the court. Sandy sits rocking back and forth, in a state of shock as she tries to take in the news. Down in the cells, Brad sits holding the family photo, now smiling as he holds it close to his chest. “I done the right thing…” Brad whispers to himself, as the scene and storyline comes to a close.

Last Appearance of Brad Foster (25th November 2013–6th June 2014)

Cast List (13 Regulars, 1 Recurring, 1 Guest)

No. Of Episodes in 2014: 69
No. Of Episodes Overall (25th November 2013–6th June 2014): 87

PRESENT CHARACTERS

040 Episodes – Frankie Cole
039 Episodes – Elaine Gibson
038 Episodes – Christine Walker
037 Episodes – Karl Gibson
036 Episodes – Jasmine Feather / Ryan Bolen
035 Episodes –
034 Episodes – Jessica Bolen / Wendy Cole
033 Episodes – Sandy Foster
032 Episodes –
031 Episodes – Gracie Foster
030 Episodes –
029 Episodes – Maria Bolen
028 Episodes –
027 Episodes – Luisa Young / Stephanie Collins / Dwayne Foster
026 Episodes –
025 Episodes –
024 Episodes –
023 Episodes –
022 Episodes – Daniel Taylor
021 Episodes – Mark Young / Stacey Collins
020 Episodes – Conrad Steele / Andrea Hunter / Rachel Henderson
019 Episodes – Janice Goldburn
018 Episodes – Ella Hunter / Ciara Goldburn
017 Episodes – Rose Young / Finn Hunter
016 Episodes – Lewis Hunter / Geraldine Feather
015 Episodes – Geraldine Feather
014 Episodes –
013 Episodes –
012 Episodes – Keith Hunter
011 Episodes – Tara O’Neill
010 Episodes –
009 Episodes –
008 Episodes –
007 Episodes –
006 Episodes – Amelia Walker
005 Episodes – Alex Carter
004 Episodes –
003 Episodes – Lucas Carter
002 Episodes –
001 Episode –

RECURRING CHARACTERS

016 Episodes – Sophie Collins
006 Episodes – DCI Austin
004 Episodes – Stevie Feather

GUEST CHARACTERS

009 Episodes – Susan Cole

DEPARTED CHARACTERS

025 Episodes – Jack Cole – Last Appeared 19.05.14
023 Episodes – Brad Foster – Last Appeared 6.06.14
021 Episodes – Andie Marcello – Last Appeared 18.04.14
018 Episodes – Oliver Potter – Last Appeared 2.05.14
017 Episodes - Drew Ross – Last Appeared 21.04.14
016 Episodes – Elena Herefordshire – Last Appeared 10.04.14
014 Episodes – Abby Bolen – Last Appeared 10.03.14
014 Episodes – Jamie Collins – Last Appeared 3.03.14
005 Episodes – Ant Henderson – Last Appeared 12.03.14

MONTHLY WINNERS

January – Maria Bolen – 14/16 Episodes
February – Jasmine Feather – 11/12 Episodes
March – Ella Hunter – 9/13 Episodes
April – Sandy Foster & Elaine Gibson – 10/12 Episodes (not inc. Dark Shadows spin off)
May – Wendy & Frankie Cole – 10/13 Episodes
June –
July – SUMMER BREAK
August –
September –
October –
November –
December –

WOW, what an absolutely fantastic, perfect, amazing, oh my god I can't even put it in to words how much that episode rocked. I'm not even joking or lying, that episode kicked all kinds of ass! It had so much going on and I absolutely loved it, it didn't feel rushed and we got a good handle on all the story lines, I'm really glad that all your planning is beginning to kick into action and the episodes are really showing it lately, in the future I can tell it's just going to get even more awesome as everything goes on! Anyway, on with the episode before your ego explodes from the compliments.

Really liked the trial episodes, I thoroughly enjoyed them and thought that your writing has been top notch throughout the week. Brad’s confession was brilliantly written, I could feel his guilt and it’s really interesting to hear that he didn’t even know his motive behind killing and attempting to kill all the Digital Lane girls. I think that Sandy’s reaction was awesome, the way she screamed his name as he was led down to the cells gave me chills, and I loved how Sandy and Dwayne were with the gang who showed up at the court, which I think was really realistic how they showed up and wanted to support him, very well with that touch. Gracie has been fabulous throughout the trial as well, and the continuing aftermath to Jack’s death is coming along fantastically, I can feel Frankie and Wendy’s grief every episode and it really isn’t nice, I feel so sorry for them and I just want to hug them both and tell them everything is going to be okay even though I don’t think it will be! The scene in the rest room at the funeral parlour was stunning, it really portrayed how much of a fantastic writer you are and I can’t believe that I was reading it from someone who wasn’t professional, they were so emotional and sad!

Tara/Karl story is really turning out to be fantastic. Loved their tiny scene, I can understand why Tara feels awkward with Karl because she hasn’t been his daughter whilst she’s been growing up and has only just discovered he’s her father when she has become an adult. I feel that Vanessa was unfair doing what she did and confessing when Tara was building a life on Digital Lane with the new flat and working for a good business, but I think it’s good now that everyone is out in the open! I really think that the scenes you had written with Rachel were also really good, very reminiscent and reflective of what happened in the last few months. I could feel the raw emotion and it was good how we were kept up to date with what happened. So glad that Geraldine is back on screen, I’ve missed her a lot after he big introduction! Fantastic episode SoapAddict101, you should really be proud of yourself!

Thank you Cal for your consistent and detailed feedback, I really appreciate how you still do it even when I've not had a chance to catch up with Digital Way.

The episode begins with pure silence, as all that can be heard is the ticking clock on the wall in the Cole’s kitchen. Wendy and Frankie sit at the table in silence, not uttering a word to each other as they both think about the hard day ahead of them. Frankie is about to say something, but bites her lip and sits back in the chair, deciding not to say anything. “You…you should eat something.” Wendy says, breaking the silence. “I’m not hungry.” Frankie mutters under her breath, before sighing. “It’s going to be a long day, you need something in your stomach.” Wendy says, persisting to make her eat something. “Nan, I’m fine honestly.” Frankie informs her, before getting up and putting her black coat on. “Your granddad would be so proud of you right now, after all that you went through last week and you can still put on a brave face.” Wendy smiles at her, and Frankie smiles back at her. “He would be proud of you too nan, you’ve been so strong through this and I wouldn’t have gotten through it without you.” Frankie tells her as she walks over to her and hugs her. Wendy smiles, but her smile quickly fades as she looks out the window to see the funeral director leading the hearse into the Lane, followed by a black car for family. She gulps, as Frankie’s eyes widen as she stares at it with surprise. Wendy slowly gets up and puts her black coat on, fixes her hair and takes a deep breath as she opens the front door. Wendy and Frankie come out the house together, and smile faintly as they see the whole Lane come out their houses in funeral clothes, paying their respects to Jack Cole. Wendy approaches the hearse and places her hand gently on the glass as she looks at the coffin and the flowers that spell out the words ‘Jack’ and ‘Father’ on each side of the coffin. She takes a deep breath, before turning on her heels and heading into the family car with a distraught Frankie.

“Are you sure you’re up to this?” Dwayne questions Sandy as she stands shaking. “Of course I am, I’m paying my respects to a wonderful man.” Sandy tells him, as she begins to walk over to the car. Gracie walks over to Dwayne nervously, asking if she can have a lift to the church. “Of course you can, you don’t need to ask.” Dwayne smiles, and Gracie faintly smiles back and approaches the car. Across the street, Jasmine helps Conrad get into the car with his crutches, as Geraldine watches on with a raised eyebrow. “Hopefully it’s not long until you have enough strength to do this on your own.” Jasmine tells him smiling faintly. “Someone’s milking it I’d say.” Geraldine remarks as she gets into the car. Jasmine rolls her eyes at her, and then gets into the car herself. At the Goldburns, Janice looks at Rachel worriedly as she stands staring into space. “Are you sure you want to do this?” Janice asks concerned. “It brings back awful, awful memories.” Rachel tells her, “But I want to pay my respects to him, Jack was such a lovely man.” Janice smiles, and tells her that if it all gets too much for her she can take her home. Rachel nods and gets into the car with her, as Ciara stands at the doorway with Lillie waving them off. Ciara shuts the door and tells Lillie to go and play in the living room. She does so, and Ciara takes out her mobile phone and dials Alex’s number. “Hey it’s me…yeah they are gone…see you soon.” Ciara smiles, as she talks to Alex on the phone. The camera moves back outside on the Lane, as numerous cars pull out their driveways and head to the church for Jack’s funeral.

At the church, people begin to arrive as the hearse pulls up in front of it. Wendy and Frankie step out of the family car, bracing themselves for what is ahead. Wendy walks by Karl, Ryan, Daniel, Keith, Mark and Lewis, who are all going to carry Jack’s coffin into the church. She thanks each and every one of them for carrying Jack’s coffin, as they all smile sympathetically at her. “I would’ve done it, but I’ve just not got the strength yet.” Conrad smiles as he stands with Jasmine in his crutches. Wendy smiles faintly, and tells him not to worry about it and concentrate on getting better. Jasmine and Conrad enter the church with the others, as Wendy stands at the doorway shivering. “Come on…let’s go inside.” Frankie says, putting her arm around her. “No. I need to greet people.” Wendy insists, but Frankie tells her she doesn’t need to do anything. Wendy nods slowly, and turns to head into the church before noticing a figure approaching the church. She turns and stares suspiciously, as it gets closer and closer. “Hello mother.” Susan calls out, as she comes to a standstill in front of the church. Wendy looks at her horrified as Susan folds her arms. “How…how did you know?” Wendy questions. “When you want to keep a funeral a secret from someone, it’s probably best not to put it in the newspaper.” Susan says, rolling her eyes. “I wasn’t keeping it a secret from you, I just…didn’t know how to tell you.” Wendy sighs, as Susan raises her eyebrow suspiciously. “So is that the man himself?” Susan says, pointing at the coffin. “Have some damn respect! Your father has died but all you’re here for is inheritance aren’t you?” Wendy says, losing her patience with her. “I don’t have to answer to you.” Susan remarks, before shoving her way into the church. Frankie heavily sighs, before putting her arm around Wendy and taking her inside.

Wendy and Frankie slowly walk down the centre isle, as residents from Digital Lane begin to turn around and look at them sympathetically and grief-stricken by this senseless tragedy. Luisa goes to hand her the obituary program, but Wendy walks straight past her oblivious to her surroundings. Wendy sits down at the front of the church with Frankie, looking disgusted, as Susan has also taken a seat at the front. Behind her, Geraldine places her hand on Wendy’s shoulder to comfort her, but Wendy continues to stare blankly into space. “Gentlemen please.” The funeral director says, asking for the men who are carrying Jack’s coffin to come outside. Susan flips her hair and smirks slightly, as tears begin to form in Wendy’s eyes. Everyone arises as the organ player continues to play the sad music. Karl, Ryan, Daniel, Keith, Mark and Lewis all enter the church behind the priest holding Jack’s coffin, which has flowers lying on top of it. Frankie stands looking straight forward, with tears running down her face, as Wendy tries to put on a strong front. Frankie holds Wendy’s eyes tight, as they look at each other for a slight moment, before looking back at Jack’s coffin as it is placed down the alter. “Please stand.” The priest announces. Wendy and Frankie take a deep breath and get up, as Susan rolls her eyes and waits a moment before getting up.

Jessica sits in Venom’s office, going through the accounts when Alfie walks in. “Not at the funeral?” He questions, as he sits at the desk across from hers. “God no, I’d rather not become even more depressed.” Jessica says, sipping her red wine on the table. “What’s up with you then?” Alfie asks as he gets up and sits on her desk. “None of your business. Do you have the accounts for last month? Can’t find them anywhere.” Jessica says, going through the folders and trying to change the subject. Alfie rolls his eyes, and tells her that she can tell him anything. “Yeah right. Alfie, we both know you’re the most untrustworthy person ever.” Jessica smirks. “Well that doesn’t stop you sleeping with me.” Alfie remarks, as he walks over to the door. “Trust me, you really don’t want to know. Just leave it.” Jessica warns, but Alfie tells her he’s going to find out sooner or later. He leaves the office, and Jessica runs her hand through her hair before heavily sighing. She turns on her phone, before her eyes widen with shock as Maria has texted ‘I need to speak to you.’ Jessica is relieved that she has finally heard from her, however her smile quickly fades as she realizes there’s a lot of explaining to do.

Out in the bar area of Venom, Christine and Amelia sit together with drinks as Alfie watches them from the bar. “We can finally be normal sisters again, no loan sharks, no secrets, just normal sisters.” Christine smiles. Amelia looks at her unconvinced, as he looks down at the floor. “Something tells me you aren’t so sure.” Christine enquires suspiciously. “Penelope I can’t just forgive you and get over this.” Amelia sighs. “What do you mean? You were perfectly fine to let me pay your loan shark off. I only done it because I thought it would try and fix our relationship.” Christine says worriedly and anxiously. “There’s only one thing you can do for me to ever forgive you Penelope.” Amelia tells her. “What? Anything!” Christine pleads worriedly. “I…I want you to hand yourself in.” Amelia says, before putting her drink down on the table and walking out the club. Christine’s eyes widen with shock as she puts her head into her hands.

“I would now like to invite Jack’s wife to say a few words, Wendy.” The priest says, looking at a distraught Wendy. Wendy takes a deep breath and tries to wipe off the tears that are forming in her eyes. Frankie and Geraldine look at her concerned, meanwhile Susan couldn’t care less. The church is in pure silence and all that can be heard is Wendy’s high heels echoing on the ground as she walks up to the alter. She stands at the podium and looks around her as everyone from Digital Lane stares at her with worry. Wendy struggles to get words out, as she tries to fight back her tears. “Jack…he was always….he was…he wa..” Wendy says, while breaking down into tears at the podium. “He was always...so special.” Wendy says, managing to get some words out. “We…we met…we met during our school years.” Wendy smiles faintly, with tears pouring down her face. “He was the only boyfriend I’ve ever known.” Wendy says, looking over at the coffin next to her and Jack’s picture beside it. “He…he got me through everything.” Wendy says, “Child birth, jobs, my parents dying, he was…he was the one.” Everyone stares at Wendy, as tears begin to form in people’s eyes. “I love him…I love him so much. He’s my everything…my world…I need him.” Wendy says, as her face goes red and tears are all over her face. Frankie bursts into tears as she listens to her grandmother saying these words, meanwhile a small tear forms in Susan’s eyes as she continues to listen. “I miss you Jack, but…but you’re in a better place now.” Wendy sighs, before coming down from the alter and rushing to her seat as she continues to cry uncontrollably.

“Amelia wait!” Christine shouts as she rushes along the Lane behind her. Amelia turns around and tells her it’s the only way. “How can you say that? After all I’ve done for you?” Christine says, looking at her disgusted. “Excuse me, you’re the murderer, not me.” Amelia says, raising her eyebrow. “Keep your voice down!” Christine snaps, dragging her over to the house. They go inside and Amelia shouts at her, telling her she is sticking by her word. “I can’t just hand myself in Amelia! I’ve got a life here, I have friends!” Christine pleads, as Amelia folds her arms. “You either hand yourself in Penelope, or you never ever see me again.” Amelia warns, before storming out the house. Christine bangs her head softly against the door, before sliding down it as tears come down her face.

As people begin to leave the church for the committal outside, Wendy slowly walks up to the coffin with clear tears forming in her eyes. She places her hand on the coffin and heavily sighs. “Oh Jack…why’d you have to go.” Wendy says as a tear falls onto the coffin. Frankie emerges from the doorway of the church, and slowly walks up listening to her. “I can hear you now, ‘Wendy get that awful Corrie off!’” Wendy says, smiling faintly. Wendy begins to choke up from the tears, “I so wish it was me in that coffin and not you.” “You could get Frankie through this, but I can’t.” Wendy says, as she tries to calm down. “I love you so much Jack, I love you so much.” Wendy says, before turning around and seeing Frankie standing there with tears running down her face. Frankie rushes up and hugs her tightly, as the two sob into each others shoulders. “We can do this, together.” Frankie tells her, and Wendy nods while crying, before the two slowly walk down the isle and exit the church. Outside, people gather around the gravestone preparing for the committal. Wendy and Frankie slowly walk towards it and stare blankly at it as it reads, ‘Loving husband, father and grandfather. Gone but never forgotten.’ The coffin is taken outside and placed where the hole is, as Frankie prepares to read out a short reading.

Susan watches in the distance, “You should be there for them, not being a total cow.” Elaine tells her, as she walks over to the gravestone with Karl. Susan sighs, before turning away and bursting into tears alone. “If only we could see the splendour of the land. To which our loved ones are called from you and me. We'd understand. If only we could hear the welcome they receive. From old familiar voices all so dear. We would not grieve. If only we could know the reason why they went. We'd smile and wipe away the tears that flow. And wait content.” Frankie says, holding back the tears as she reads the poem. Wendy puts her arm around her and comforts her, as tears form in both of their eyes. “We now commit Jack’s body to the ground. earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust. In sure and certain hope of the resurrection to eternal life through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died, was buried, and rose again for us. To him be glory for ever. Amen.” The priest says, as he throws lumps of soil over the coffin as it is lowered into the hole made for it. “Goodbye Jack…” Wendy whispers quietly, as everyone stands around the gravestone mourning the loss of a great member of the community.

Cast List (29 Regulars, 1 Recurring, 1 Guest)

Fantastic episode, the tension and action was just incredible this episode! Digital Lane is sure doing good at the moment, I've loved every moment of it and you truly are a great writer and executive producer, you have a clear structure and format for the episodes, as well as a good vision for the show, you blend drama, happiness and sadness into episodes perfectly and I really admire you for it. Another good thing about Digital Lane at the moment is that all the plots are balanced, a few weeks ago the focus was on Andie, Frankie, Brad, Sandy, Gracie ect and now it's on a completely different set of characters, which allows us to see all the characters without no one dominating. Great job SoapAddict101, loved every minute of tonight's episode.

Jack's funeral was such a well written but a memorable event in Digital Lane history nevertheless. It was heartbreaking how Wendy broke down during her speech to her husband, but splendidly written at the same time. If I were you I'd be so proud of this episode, it was fantastic and Jack's funeral, like I said, will go down in Digital Lane history. I liked how you decided to include the whole cast with the majority attending Jack's funeral but it was also good how some events were going on in other places. I loved all the community coming together to celebrate Jack's life, but I noticed during the actual funeral you only mentioned Wendy, Frankie and Susan which was a very dramatic and artistic thing to do. I liked how you had Susan uncomfortable and when she shed tears a little, that was brilliant, and Wendy's speech like I said was heartbreaking. The committal was true to life, liked how you got the actual speech and I thought it was sad how Susan broke down by herself, no matter how much of a bitch she is she still loved her father and so did Wendy and Frankie, as well as the rest of the community.

Christine and Amelia's scenes were fabulous! Amelia really is becoming a great part of Digital Lane, I do think she was selfish though letting Christine pay off her loan shark and then telling her that the only thing she could do for her would be handing herself in, that was selfish on Amelia's part and I can feel Christine's anguish because of that, she clearly is guilty but she's built a live with the estate agents and with Ryan and she has friends so it must be an awful situation to deal with. Jessica and Alfie's scenes were great, her keeping the secret really is eating away at her but it's nice to hear of Maria since she left, can't wait until her and Abby are back full time, it's going to be amazing and I can't wait! Ciara and Lewis are still going on, that's also interesting . Gracie is advancing with her parents which is lovely to see, and Elaine's short scene with Susan at the graveyard was great. Is this the whole cast episode? I didn't see Tara or Ryan or is that a different day? Fantastic episode SoapAddict, you never disappoint!

Thank you for your detailed and consistent feedback Cal, really appreciate it.
__________________________________________

There are 4 episodes this week, schedule below.

Monday 9th June 2014: Aired
Tuesday 10th June 2014
NO WEDNESDAY EPISODE
Thursday 12th June 2014
Friday 13th June 2014

Christine peers out of the living room window at Digital Lane, as the sun shines and people head off to work. She shuts the curtain and sighs, turning and looking at the photo of her and Amelia lying on the coffee table. “You sitting in the dark is becoming quite frequent recently.” Ryan remarks as he comes downstairs and opens the curtains up. “I’d prefer if you kept them shut.” Christine says, leaning back on the sofa and rubbing her eyes. “What’s up now? I’m sick of this.” Ryan says, sitting next to her. “Sick of what?” Christine asks, looking at him confused. “You. Ever since Amelia came on the scene you’ve changed, you’re obsessed with making her happy and don’t give two hoots on how I’m feeling.” Ryan snaps, before putting his head in his hands. “I…I’m sorry.” Christine mumbles, but Ryan rolls his eyes and tells her he knows she doesn’t mean it. “Oh grow up Ryan, she’s my sister of course I want to make her happy!” Christine hits back angrily. “This isn’t worth it.” Ryan remarks before storming out the house, slamming the door behind him. He walks out onto the Lane, and Jessica desperately rushes across the road. “Ryan, it’s Maria! She wants to talk to me!” Jessica says, trying to keep up with him as he continues to walk along the sidewalk. “Good luck.” Ryan remarks, still angry at Christine. “Ryan wait! She’s…she’s at dad’s.” Jessica says, as she goes pale with worry. Ryan turns and looks at her confused as his eyes widen. “Why the hell would she go there?” Ryan questions. “How am I supposed to know?” Jessica says, “Are you coming or not?” Ryan looks back at Christine’s house, before looking back at Jessica following her to the car.

Ella holds baby Noah in her arms as she looks stressed out trying to do the household chores. "Have you ironed my shirt yet?" Daniel questions, as he walks in half dressed in his boxers. Ella goes pale and apologises quickly, before rushing to get the ironing board after handing Noah to Daniel. "I've got a big meeting today, Dwayne's selling his share of the gym and there's interest from some 'businessman' so I've to go meet with the bank. I really need that shirt ironed." Daniel tells her, putting Noah into his crib and going back into the kitchen. "I'm sorry, I've just had a lot to do." Ella tells him as she irons the shirt. "So have I, all I asked was for you to iron a shirt." Daniel moans as he sits down at the dining table watching her iron. "I don't know if you've noticed, but I am caring for our child at the same time!" Ella tells him angrily, slamming the iron down on the shirt. "Ella!" Daniel shouts with panic, and Ella realises she has burnt the shirt. "I didn't mean it, I'm sorry!" Ella says as she panics. "I'll just go in the one I wore yesterday." Daniel mumbles angrily, storming out the room. Ella scratches her head stressfully as she hears Noah crying in the other room. She shuts her eyes and takes a deep sigh, before going to pick him up.

Stacey stands behind the bar in Minerva, rolling her eyes as Stevie rants about her boyfriend cheating on her again. "Shouldn't you just break up with him if he keeps hurting you?" Stacey remarks sarcastically, wiping the bar. "Eh no. He's my soul mate, we were meant to be." Stevie says. "Sure he's said that to many other girls." Stacey mutters under her breath, rolling her eyes. "What was that?" Stevie questions suspiciously. "Nothing." Stacey sarcastically smiles, as Geraldine chuckles as she enters the bar. "Ignore her, all she goes on about is that boyfriend of hers." Geraldine tells Stacey as Stevie walks into the back. "Haha, I don't envy you." Stacey laughs while serving a drink to a punter. "Wouldn't change her for the world." Geraldine smiles, before telling Stacey she can get off now and she will hold the fort with Stevie. "Oh, thanks. I'll still be paid for the other hour right?" Stacey asks worriedly, as she goes through her empty purse. "Of course! Don't worry about it." Geraldine smiles as Stacey leaves the bar. She takes a bottle of wine from the rack and puts herself a glass, before gulping it down as she stares at the family photo on the wall anxiously.

Christine sits in her car on the driveway, staring blankly as she has her hands on the steering wheel. A tap on the window disturbs her, as Stephanie stands there looking at her worried. Stephanie gets into and sits looking at her concerned. “I seen you an hour ago getting into this car and you’ve not moved since.” Stephanie tells her, as Christine continues to sit staring into space. “Christine, Penelope, whatever your name is, you know you can talk to me about whatever is bothering you.” Stephanie says, putting her hand on Christine’s shoulder. “It’s…it’s my sister, Amelia. She wants me to hand myself in.” Christine says worriedly. Stephanie looks at her with surprise and shock, taking away her hand from her shoulder. “You’re not going to actually do that are you?” Stephanie questions worriedly. “I can’t go on like this anymore Stephanie, I need to do what’s right for once and…hand myself in.” Christine tells her, before starting up the engine. “Not if I have anything to do with it.” Stephanie tells her, putting her seatbelt on and looking at her with raised eyebrows. “Stephanie please just let me do this! I need my sisters forgiveness.” Christine pleads. “If she really cared about you, she wouldn’t make you do this.” Stephanie remarks, and Christine rolls her eyes and begins to drive.

Jessica and Ryan stand next to the car, staring up at the council high flats in front of them. “Dad done well for himself.” Jessica sarcastically remarks, folding her arms. “I…I really don’t want to see him.” Ryan says worriedly. “I’m only doing this for Maria, in fact why would she even come here, what he done to mum, us, he’s disgusting.” Jessica sighs, before checking she’s locked the car as she glares at a group of youths staring at her. “Come on then.” Jessica says, heading to the close, as Ryan stares at it worriedly. Jessica pushes open the close door, which isn’t even locked. “Nice place, eh.” Jessica remarks sarcastically as she walks down the corridor with Ryan and they head up the stairs. “I don’t think I can do this Jess.” Ryan says worriedly as he begins to panic. “We’re doing this together, we go in there and talk to Maria then leave. I’m not uttering a word to that man.” Jessica tells him convincingly, and he nods, following her up the stairs. They reach the flat, and Jessica confidently knocks on the door as Ryan nervously begins to shake. Jessica smiles at him faintly, before turning around as the door opens and Maria stands there with her hands on her hips. “I’m ready to talk, you’ve got a lot of explaining to do.” Maria says sternly, before letting them inside the flat.

Geraldine stands on the ladder putting flags onto the wall. “What’s all that for?” Stevie questions confused. “It’s the World Cup on Thursday, we have to pull in the punters by showing some of the games.” Geraldine informs her, as she puts a Spain flag on the wall. “Oh I’d love to live in Spain, loads of sun and beaches, and of course fit guys.” Stevie says as she gets into a daydream. “Fit men? What about that boyfriend of yours?” Geraldine says jokingly, as Stevie raises her eyebrow. “He’s no were near up to the standard of Spanish men.” Stevie remarks, before heading into the back. Geraldine smiles as Rachel enters the bar. “You got any change? We are out over at the café.” Rachel tells her, handing her a twenty-pound note. “Sure hun, how are you?” Geraldine asks as she goes over to the cash register. “I’m alright yeah, I’m doing a few more shifts at the café for Wendy, trying to make her put off coming back too soon.” Rachel replies, before thanking her for the change. “I don’t know if she’ll ever be ready.” Geraldine sighs, as Rachel nods in agreement. “Thanks anyway Geraldine.” Rachel smiles, before walking out the bar.

Andrea stands with her arms folded as she watches Ella folding clothes as Noah cries. “I hope he’s not taking advantage of you.” Andrea remarks, before walking over to pick up Noah from his crib. “He’s not, it’s normal for me to be doing all the housework now.” Ella tells her, but Andrea looks at her suspiciously. “Ella, I know when you’re lying to me.” Andrea says, and Ella looks at her worriedly. “…I’m not cut out for this, being a mother, I’m just not!” Ella says as she breaks down into tears. Andrea looks at her with shock and worry, before putting Noah back in his crib and rushing to hug her. “I’ve told you not to keep things like this from me.” Andrea sighs as she hugs Ella tightly. “I’m sorry mum, I’m just so scared I’m going to mess up.” Ella sighs, and Andrea sighs. “Ella, I don’t know anyone that could be as good as a mother as you are, look at you, you’re doing all of the housework and still find time to care for Noah, you’re the perfect mother.” Andrea smiles as she wipes Ella’s tears away from her cheek. “I love you mum.” Ella smiles, and Andrea tells her she loves her too. “Right, I’m going to sort him out.” Andrea tells her, grabbing her handbag and coat. “Mum leave it!” Ella says panicking. “Fine, but I can’t guarantee what I’ll do if I see him.” Andrea says, before leaving the house as Ella stands there scratching her head with worry.

Christine and Stephanie sit in the car, as Christine parks it in front of the police station. “You aren’t seriously going to do this are you?” Stephanie questions, getting increasingly anxious. “It’s the only way Amelia is going to forgive me.” Christine sighs, biting her top lip as she looks at the police station. “If she really cared, she wouldn’t make you do something so serious like this.” Stephanie remarks angrily. “I don’t blame her, what I done, what I’m doing. It’s unforgivable.” Christine tells Stephanie, before taking the key out the engine and looking at her worriedly. “Please don’t do this, just talk to her, there must be some other way.” Stephanie tells her, but Christine shakes her head, before getting out the car. Stephanie follows her out and grabs her by the arm to stop her. “You can’t just leave Ryan like this, Christine you’ve got a new life on Digital Lane, a business, friends, don’t throw all of your hard work away now.” Stephanie says, trying to persuade her. “Amelia is the only member of my family who actually gave me time to explain myself, I need to do what’s right for once.” Christine informs her, pulling away and walking nervously towards the police station. “Penelope don’t!” Amelia shouts, running along the street with her high heels echoing on the pavement. Christine turns around with shock as she stares at her sister coming towards her. “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have said the things I did, I was angry, Penelope I forgive you, I forgive you for everything.” Amelia says, trying to catch her breath. A massive smile forms on Christine’s face, as she rushes and hugs Amelia tightly. Stephanie stands leaning on the car smiling, before getting back into the car as Amelia and Christine walk back over. “Thank you.” Christine whispers to Amelia, as she gets into the car. Amelia smiles genuinely, before also getting into the back seat of the car.

Jessica grabs Maria’s arm before she enters the living room, and Maria looks at her with disgust. “You didn’t tell him did you? About Abby?” Jessica says, referring to her father. “No, of course not.” Maria spits angrily, pulling her arm away from Jessica and walking into the living room. Jessica looks at Ryan concerned, before slowly entering the living room. She looks around at the trashy flat, with books and papers lying everywhere. “Homely…” Jessica remarks sarcastically, before opening the window to get some air. “Ah, Jess and Ryan. I finally get to see those faces of yours again.” Hector Bolen smiles, as he sits on the sofa next to Maria. “I’m not here to speak to you.” Jessica says, turning around and looking at him with venom. “Now now, no need to be rude.” Hector tells her calmly. “We’re here to talk to Maria, make yourself scarce.” Jessica says rudely, pointing to the door. “This is my home darling, I’m not going anywhere.” Hector hits back, smirking. “Not changed one bit then eh.” Jessica remarks, going over to the window and staring outside. “Nether have you dear, did it just slip your mind to tell me my daughter has died?” Hector asks sternly, as Jessica goes pale. “I…I was busy…” Jessica says, trying to make up excuses. “I can’t believe you would do something like that Jess, you told me that dad couldn’t be bothered to come!” Maria says angrily, as Jessica runs her hand through her hair stressfully. “Oh please, if you really cared you would have been on the phone desperately trying to get him to come.” Jessica hits back, before quickly apologizing. “I think you should be watching what you’re saying to me.” Maria cheekily remarks, before going into the kitchen. “You’re quiet boy.” Hector says, looking over at Ryan. “I don’t have anything to say to you.” Ryan nervously says, looking down at the floor. “I see Jessica has spread her poison to your mind too.” Hector remarks sarcastically, leaning back on the sofa smirking. “I’m not going to get into some petty schoolyard argument with you dad, what’s done is done. You can’t go back and change it.” Jessica says, glaring at him. “Stop living in the past Jess dear, move on. Everyone else has.” Hector informs her, but Jessica rolls her eyes and says nothing.

Night falls and Stacey and Lucas walk along the business district holding hands as they stop at the flats. “Thanks for tonight, it was great to just get out and let my hair down.” Stacey smiles, kissing him on the cheek. “You sure you don’t want to come in?” Lucas says flirtatiously smirking. Stacey considers, before politely declining. “I’ll get you one day.” Lucas smiles, before entering the close. Stacey walks along the business district, before hearing coughing and spluttering coming from the back alleyway. She slowly walks into the alleyway and turns on her phone light so she can see. She walks along the alleyway as she gets increasingly suspicious, before being taken a back as Tara sits against the wall with a bottle of vodka in her hands. “It’s Tara right?” Stacey asks, rushing over to her to help her up. “What’s it to you?” Tara questions drunkenly as she is taken along the alleyway and back out onto the street. Andrea walks along with her shopping bags and rushes to help Stacey carry Tara back to the flats. “How the hell did she end up in this state?” Andrea questions as she looks through her handbag to find her keys. “No idea, I just found her like this.” Stacey says worriedly. Karl comes out of Planet Fitness after a session in the gym, before quickly going over to see what’s happening. “Tara are you alright?” Karl says, taking her arm to help her inside. “Get off of me! Leave me alone! Don’t even touch me! I don’t want you anywhere near me!” Tara drunkenly shouts at him, before stumbling into the close with Stacey and Andrea. “I’ll call you if there’s any problem.” Andrea smiles, as Karl stands looking worriedly as they disappear up the stairs in the close.

First Appearance of Hector Bolen (Larry Lamb) & Return of Maria Bolen (Roxanne Pallett)

Cast List (16 Regulars, 1 Recurring)

Fantastic episode of Digital Lane, SoapAddict101, you've really excelled yourself recently with these fantastic episodes and you should be extremely proud of yourself and give yourself a big pat on the back. You have a clear view and insight into Digital Lane, I'm very happy to say that I've been a fan of the soap since it began and it's great to see that you have a great handle on your characters and the plots which make up your day to day episodes and the ones which expand over weeks and months which become legendary, every single one of Digital Lane's story lines is fantastic at the moment. I love reading Digital Lane, it isn't a chore and I enjoy reading and feedbacking in detail because it's lovely for you to know what you're doing good/badly.

I loved Christine/Stephanie/Amelia this episode. It was great how Christine cut herself off from Ryan and was keeping the secrets and planning to hand herself in. It shows that Christine is a very strong woman and lives her sister by being willing to go to prison for her forgiveness. I'm very glad that you've written Christine as very guilty and having a deep dark secret, it's so good that from November this drama about Christine's sister is still going on. I thought, that like usual in Digital soaps, if a character has a secret it's featured for a few months before being dropped and never brought up again. Sometimes Christine's secret is pushed to the back, but it keeps resurfacing and Amelia's introduction has been great! The scene at the end with Stacey finding Tara was horrible, it's horrible to see what Vanessa's revelation has done to Tara and it's horrible that she doesn't want Karl touching her!

I feel so sorry for Ella, Daniel is really putting a lot of pressure onto her for ironing his shirt, she's a young mother for god sake! I am glad that Andrea is sticking up for Ella and wants to have a go at Daniel but Ella has stopped her, that's a very wise decision and one that I would definitely make as well. The Bolen drama is fantastic! Again, Abby disappeared in February but the drama is still going on and that's brilliant, their visit to Hector gave us a brilliant insight into their life as a family and I want to hear more of what went on when they were younger. Mara is very evil if you think about it, now she's slowly come round I hope she comes back to Digital Lane! I'm glad Ryan and Jessica won't speak to Hector, what he did clearly has hit them hard and it's great that they are holding a grudge. It gives them a great depth. Fantastic episode SoapAddict101, well done!

Thank you for the consistent and detailed feedback.

Stacey and Andrea lay down Tara on the sofa, before heading into the kitchen and turning the kettle on. “A strong black coffee should hopefully sober her up.” Andrea says, folding her arms. “I just found her in an alleyway mumbling stuff, it was like she was trying to tell me something.” Stacey says, biting her nails as she tries to think. “She’s probably too drunk to even know what she’s talking about.” Andrea sighs, before pouring the hot water from the kettle into the cup of coffee. “You can go if you want, I’ll stay for a bit to make sure she’s alright.” Stacey smiles, but Andrea shakes her head and tells her that from personal experience, there needs to be more than one person to care for her. “Personal experience?” Stacey questions, but Andrea doesn’t say anything as she walks back into the living room and hands Tara the coffee. “That should help you sober up a bit.” Andrea smiles. “What if I don’t want to sober up?” Tara snaps drunkenly, slamming the coffee down on the table. “Is everything alright Tara?” Stacey asks as she enters the room. “No it’s not obviously!” Tara complains. “I know we’re basically strangers, but we are worried about you.” Andrea says to her worriedly, as Tara rocks her head back and forth. “I don’t need anyone looking out for me.” Tara says rudely, before picking up the coffee from the table and gulping it down. Andrea looks at Stacey concernedly, before asking Tara if there’s anyone she can call. “I just told you I don’t need anyone looking out for me.” Tara says abruptly, before getting up and heading into the kitchen. She grabs a bottle of vodka and quickly opens it, before gulping it down as Stacey and Andrea watch on worriedly.

“It’s dark and we’ve still not talked about what I came here for.” Jessica remarks, staring out at the dark council estate from the flat window. “Dad, can you go out for a while?” Maria asks nervously. “It’s bloomin’ dark now! You can’t expect me to go out there, anything could happen to me!” Hector complains, as Ryan and Jessica roll their eyes. “I wish it would.” Jessica mutters under her breath as she sits down on the sofa. “Anything you can say to each other can be said to me.” Hector says, folding his arms. “Maria, please just come home and we can talk about this, in private.” Jessica says, staring at Hector when she says private. “Oh fine then! If you can live with letting me go out in the dark on this estate then so be it.” Hector remarks, putting his coat and hat on, before heading out. Jessica listens for the front door to slam, before quickly apologizing to Maria. “I don’t want anymore lies, tell me the truth about what happened the night Abby…faked her death.” Maria says, looking down at the floor. “I don’t know all the details, we weren’t together for very long.” Jessica says, trying to change the subject.

“Stop it Jess, just tell her.” Ryan interrupts, as he leans against the wall. “I don’t know what was going through her head…she…she just done it. She wanted you away from Jamie so bad, she felt it was the only way to get you away from him.” Jessica says, rabbling on. “You know, I’ve been so close to going to the police about her…an innocent man is in prison for something that didn’t even happen!” Maria says, with tears forming in her eyes. “If he’s so innocent, why did he plead guilty?” Ryan says intrigued, as Jessica looks down at the floor. “I…I visited him.” Maria mumbles, as Jessica and Ryan’s eyes widen with shock. “Wha…what did he say?” Jessica says worriedly. “More importantly, what did you say?” Ryan intervenes, looking at Maria with shock. “I didn’t tell him anything, you’re lucky I didn’t though. He…looked so scared, so fragile.” Maria sighs, running her hand through her hair. “We have to keep quiet, for Abby’s sake.” Ryan sighs, as Maria raises her eyebrow. “As far as I’m concerned, Abby is dead to me.” Maria tells them both, before getting up and walking into the kitchen as Jessica and Ryan look at each other worriedly. The camera pans across and into the hallway, where Hector stands smirking, having heard the whole conversation.

“Are you sure about this Amelia?” Christine asks as they get out the car. “You’re all I’ve got left, I’m not prepared to give you up for a mistake.” Amelia smiles, before walking over and hugging her sister. “I’ll leave you girls to it.” Stephanie smiles, making her way to her house. “Thanks Stephanie!” Christine shouts. “For what?” Stephanie says, turning around. “Everything, you’ve been my rock through all of this, I owe you my life.” Christine smiles, as Stephanie smiles back. “I’ll hold you to that.” Stephanie jokes, before turning around and walking down the street. Christine and Amelia walk up to the front door laughing and joking as Christine tries to find her keys. "Eh...Penelope look." Amelia says, pointing out that the door has been smashed in and the lock has broken off. Christine looks at Amelia worriedly, before going inside to investigate. Christine turns the lights on and both of their eyes widen with shock as they stare at the mess before them, with broken ornaments and smashed frames all over the room. "What the hell happened?" Amelia questions, speechless from the mess. "You and I both know who this was." Christine says, running her hand through her hair. "It was him wasn't it, my loan shark." Amelia says annoyed, rubbing her head stressfully. "I should've realised he would come back, all he done when he was here was admire the house. He wasn't even that bothered about getting the cheque." Christine sighs, as she tries to pick up the broken glass with her bare hands. "Penelope I told you not to bring him here, it was going to be trouble right from the very beginning." Amelia says, kneeling down and helping her. "I just wanted to keep you safe Amelia, I don't see what's so wrong about that." Christine snaps, jumping back to her feet and putting some of the glass in a box on the stairs. "I'm sorry okay, but all you've done is make yourself at risk, that's not what I wanted." Amelia sighs, getting back to her feet. "I'll protect you no matter what happens Amelia, this loan shark doesn't know what he's dealing with if he thinks he will get away with this." Christine says convincingly, hugging Amelia tightly.

Stephanie makes her way along the street, before spotting Sandy sitting on the steps outside of her house. She sighs, and crosses the road and walks over to her. “For what it’s worth, I don’t hate you.” Stephanie smiles, sitting next to her. Sandy smiles faintly as she looks at her. “Everyone else seems too.” Sandy sighs, putting her head into her hands. “I know what it’s like, everyone staring at you in the supermarket as if you’ve done something wrong, when you’re just walking in the street and you get dirty looks from randomers.” Stephanie says, referring to her situation with Jamie. “Exactly, I just feel like this place isn’t for me anymore.” Sandy sighs, rubbing her head. “You thinking of moving away?” Stephanie asks, and Sandy nods. “Good on you I guess, I never had the guts.” Stephanie says, and then Sandy informs her that Brad is being transferred to a prison in East London, so she’s moving to get closer to him. “At least you’re there for him, I’ve not been there for Jamie like I should be.” Stephanie sighs. “At least we have it better than her right now.” Sandy says, looking at Wendy as she slowly takes out the bins. Stephanie nods in agreement, before asking if she’s spoke to Dwayne about it. “He was the one who persuaded me to move!” Sandy jokes as Stephanie grins. “Well, good luck wherever you go Sandy, you deserve it.” Stephanie smiles as she gets up and begins walking home.

“I gave Karl a call, he should be here soon.” Andrea says, walking into the room and putting her phone into her bag. “I don’t want him to be here.” Tara coldly says, gulping down the vodka. “He’s the only one that will get through to you though.” Andrea replies, before grabbing the vodka from her hands and walking into the kitchen. She stands over the sink, watching nervously as she tries to bring herself to pour it down the sink. Stacey emerges in the doorway as she stands watching Andrea suspiciously. Andrea unscrews the lid slowly, before putting it to her lips and gulping it down. Stacey rolls her eyes, and enters the room more as Andrea finishes the bottle. She takes a deep breath and sighs, before turning and standing with surprise as Stacey glares at her. “You’re…you’re an alcoholic aren’t you?” Stacey questions, folding her arms while glaring at her. Andrea goes silent for a moment, thinking of ways to reply. “Recovering alcoholic.” Andrea corrects with a worried look on her face. “You don’t look so recovered to me.” Stacey remarks, sitting down on the chair next to the table. “I try my hardest, I mean I’m not as bad as I used to be, I just can’t control myself sometimes.” Andrea sighs, running her hands through her hair. “You should’ve told me and I would have gotten rid of the vodka.” Stacey says, looking concerned at Andrea. “There wasn’t that much left anyway, it won’t do much harm.” Andrea says unconvincingly, as Stacey raises her eyebrow. “Does your family know you’re still like this?” Stacey goes on to ask concerned. “Well…er…just Finn. He’s kept quiet for months, he’s a saviour that boy.” Andrea smiles. “What about Keith? He’s your husband, you should be able to open up to him.” Stacey interrogates suspiciously. “Keith doesn’t like the truth Stacey, and I don’t blame him to be honest. I made our lives hell back before we moved here, I got so drunk I could barely tell my children to have a good day at work.” Andrea says, with tears forming in her eyes as she continues, “I don’t want him to know that I’m still not completely over it, I can’t ruin our lives yet again.” “You’re only making it worse by not telling him.” Stacey informs her, and Andrea nods in agreement. “I just need time to get my head around things, a lot has been going on with Ella having her baby and now Sandy’s buggering off so god knows what will happen to my job.” Andrea replies, and Stacey smiles faintly. There is banging at the door, and Stacey gets up to go and get it, while Andrea stands in the kitchen running her hand through her hair worriedly as she sighs.

“The only reason Abby done this was to get you away from Jamie, we’ve got to protect her.” Jessica pleads, as Maria stands with her arms folded glaring. “Jamie didn’t deserve something so extreme like that.” Maria remarks, before walking back into the living room. “Maria why can’t you see that all Abby wanted to do was to protect you?” Jessica says angrily, following her back to the living room. “No one deserves to go to prison for something that they didn’t’ do.” Maria says with venom, sitting herself back down. “You don’t know the Jamie Abby knew.” Jessica hits back, as Maria raises her eyebrow. “Well go on then, tell me all the horrible things he’s done, then I might change my mind.” Maria remarks sarcastically, leaning back in her chair. Ryan and Maria stare at Jessica as she stands in a silent panic looking around anxiously. “Abby was always the sensible one, the one who wanted a family. He took that away from her, he forced her to abort her first child Maria.” Jessica admits to her, and Maria looks at her sympathetically. “And if she didn’t, he threatened to do it himself…” Jessica says, as Maria’s eyes widen. “He…was going to kill her baby if she didn’t?” Maria says, covering her mouth with shock. Jessica slowly nods, as Ryan puts his head in his hands. Just as Maria is about to speak, Hector walks back in pretending he has been out, when in reality he has been there the whole time. “It’s absolutely freezing cold out there! I couldn’t stay out any longer.” Hector complains, taking his coat off. “It’s fine, Jess and Ryan were just going.” Maria says, making clear eye contact with Ryan and Jessica to go. Jessica sighs, before getting up and putting her coat on. “Are you going to come home or what?” Ryan questions anxiously, and Maria tells him she needs some time to think. Hector stands looking at the trio suspiciously, as Jessica shoves by him and leaves the flat, followed by Ryan. Jessica stands out in the close heavily sighing, as Ryan tries to support her. “We’ll get through to her soon enough.” Ryan says convincingly, hugging his sister as a tear slowly runs down her face.

“Thanks for looking after her, I was really worried.” Karl smiles as Andrea and Stacey put their coats on in the hallway. “Hopefully you can get through to her, we can’t get anything out of her.” Andrea says, as Stacey nods in agreement. “I’ll try my best.” Karl sighs, walking into the living room as Andrea and Stacey let themselves out. Karl slowly enters the living room, and sighs as he sees a drunken Tara lying on the couch. “Tara, what’s going on?” Karl questions, sitting down next to her. “I told them not to call you.” Tara coldly says, shutting her eyes and sighing. “What else could they do? They couldn’t leave you like this and I’m the only one that knows you properly around here.” Karl says, and Tara accepts it. “Now are you going to tell me what’s going on?” Karl interrogates, as Tara begins to get increasingly nervous. Tara looks up at him with tears forming in her eyes, as she begins to sob into his shoulder as Karl puts his arm around her and hugs her tightly, completely oblivious to the real reason why she is crying.

Cast List (12 Regulars)

Another absolutely fantastic episode of Digital Lane, SoapAddict101. You keep on improving every episode and it's lovely to see the character interactions you write as well as the scenes and the dialog included as a whole. I love the community feel you give to the soap, I wish I did it more with Digital Way, but you write so that the whole community feels like they care about one another. You add little mentions and references into scenes by different characters to help build up the community feel and that's what I adore about Digital Lane. Digital Lane always has something interesting going on which sets it apart from the other soaps. The other soaps usually have block episodes which are building up for a few weeks and then a huge explosive episode before going back to the build up episodes again, whereas Digital Lane has stories building up at different paces meaning there's usually a story climax every fortnight or so which helps to keep it interesting and fantastic.

The Bolen drama was absolutely fantastic, yet again! I loved their scenes together as a family, it felt good that they were finally addressing issues and pulling together and I like that there's been some questions answered for both the viewers and the characters themselves regarding the story line, which is great to see. I loved Jessica's one liners to Hector, but I can't believe he listened into the conversation from out in the hallway and now knows everything about Abby faking her death and still being alive! Maria is a great character, it's wonderful to see her back on screen now that she's had her break after the revelation and her scenes with Ryan and Jessica were great and felt like she'd never been away because the characters just fit together so wonderfully. Maria had a good reaction to learning that Jamie had tried to make Abby abort her child or he'd do it for her, and I can't wait to see both her and Abby return to the lane along with their siblings. Sandy and Stephanie's scene was great, them talking about Sandy and Dwayne moving on to East London to be near Brad's prison and Stephanie reflecting on her treatment of Jamie was good. It's nice that there's a lot of references to Jamie, he's been quite absent lately from mentions.

The Tara drama is being beautifully done. I love that she's come into the show as an aspiring young woman from just having her bags knocked out of her hands by Karl and now she's one of the leading characters in a great story line. Her scenes drunk were fabulously written, and Andrea and Stacey's scene in the kitchen was great as well. I'm glad that Stacey found out about Andrea's drinking, that was really well written and sort of a chain reaction from Vanessa telling Tara about Karl being her father to Tara getting drunk to Andrea drinking the vodka and Stacey finding her. It was cleverly done and I hope Stacey keeps the secret so Andrea can tell Keith that she's not recovered herself. I wonder what Tara is going to see to Karl?! Christine and Amelia's scenes tonight were also fantastic, I wonder what the loan shark's problem is, he got his money but he's suddenly decided to break into Christine's home and ransack it? I'm glad that Amelia and Christine's bond is being strengthened and she's going to keep the secret, I really can't wait for them to develop into tight-knit sisters. Fantastic episode SoapAddict101, one of the best!

Thank you for your consistent and detailed feedback Cal, means a lot.

The episode opens with Stacey and Stephanie as they sit in Venom, drinking together at a table as the music blares in her ears and people dance and shout on the dance floor. “This is all getting a bit much for me, I’m going to head off.” Stephanie shouts in her ear as Stacey nods. “Watch yourself, with it being Friday the 13th and all.” Stacey jokes as Stephanie gets up. “Oh you know me, I don’t believe in all that gibberish.” Stephanie smiles, before walking out the club. Stacey’s smile quickly fades as she sits there alone. “You’re scaring the customers away with that face.” Alfie jokes, as he picks up empty glasses from the table. “I’ll go soon.” Stacey abruptly says, looking down to the floor. “Don’t worry about it, I was only joking.” Alfie confirms, seeing Stacey isn’t in a joking mood. Lucas enters the club, and spots Stacey through the crowd. He comes towards her and questions her on why she is there. “I just needed a drink, something wrong with that?” Stacey replies, with a raised eyebrow. “Why don’t you come back to mines, we’ve got a fridge full.” Lucas says, sitting next to her. Stacey hesitates for a moment, while biting her lip. “Why are you so desperate for me to come back to yours? It didn’t exactly go to plan the first time.” Stacey says confused, referring to the time when Stacey couldn't bring herself to sleep with him as Lucas looks down at the floor. “You’re worth the effort though.” He smiles, and Stacey begins to go red with embarrassment. “I guess one drink wouldn’t hurt.” Stacey says, before putting her coat on and leaving the club with Lucas, as Alfie watches suspiciously from behind the bar.

“Tara, you can tell me anything you know, you don’t need to keep it bottled up.” Karl sighs, handing her a coffee as he tries to sober her up. “I’ve made a right mess of myself haven’t I.” Tara smiles, before drinking the coffee. “Sorta.” Karl chuckles, as he sits down next to her on the sofa. “I don’t even know what happened, I just got so drunk.” Tara sighs, looking down at the floor. “You got yourself into some state, I don’t know how Andrea and Stacey managed to control you.” Karl jokes, as Tara faintly smiles. “I’ve just been under a lot stress recently, with moving here, then the flats not even being ready yet, mum arriving...god she’s so selfish.” Tara says, hesitating, as she is about to continue. “Don’t keep it bottled up, I’m always here to listen.” Karl smiles at her convincingly. “Oh what would Elaine say?” Tara says sarcastically, while rolling her eyes. “Oh ignore her, she’ll eventually realize we are just friends.” Karl chuckles as Tara smiles faintly. “How long have you and Elaine been together? You must be really in love with her if you can put up with her when she’s like that.” Tara asks, trying to get to know more about him. “7 years, we’ve both had our fair share of relationships in the past though.” Karl says chuckling to himself, “She has a child, well adult now, from another marriage but I didn’t have any baggage when we met.” Karl continues, as Tara raises her eyebrows while listening. “Did it bother you that she had another child?” Tara asks suspiciously. “No of course not, I love Elaine for what she is and I don’t care what baggage she has.” Karl smiles, before drinking his coffee as Tara sits leaning forward, trying to get her head around things.

At Daniel and Ella’s, the male residents of Digital Lane are placing bets on who will win the World Cup; meanwhile the females are gossiping in the kitchen. “I don’t know why you are all bothering, I’ve clearly picked the best team, Argentina!” Keith says laughingly as he writes it down on the notepad. “We all know what Germany are going to win!” Daniel exclaims, writing down his team name on the pad. “Holland!” Conrad replies loudly while smiling. “Ladies ladies, we all know that Brazil are going to win so I don’t know why you are bothering.” Mark jokes, as Dwayne sits down while sighing. “You alright mate?” Mark questions concerned about him, and Dwayne looks up and nods. “We don’t blame you for trying to get Brad free, if we were in your position we would’ve done the same.” Keith informs him, as the others nod. “And we don’t blame you or Sandy for what happened too.” Conrad adds on, as Dwayne puts his head in his hands. “We’re leaving…for good.” Dwayne informs them, as they all look at him surprised. “Brad’s being moved to a prison in East London while he waits on his sentencing trial, we are going to move to be closer to him.” Dwayne continues, as everyone looks shocked. “Never thought I’d see the day that you and Sandy leave the Lane.” Mark says, still gobsmacked. “It’s for the best too, we’re hated around here and there’s nothing keeping us here now.” Dwayne replies. “Have you found someone to buy the gym yet?” Daniel asks, having already known Dwayne was leaving. “Yeah, he’s coming in on Monday to finalise some stuff, but after that it’s no longer mine.” Dwayne says, and Daniel nods. “Well good luck to you mate.” Conrad tells him, patting him on the back.

In the kitchen, Ella and Jasmine walk towards the dining table as they begin a conversation. “How’s the pregnancy going then?” Ella smiles as she sits at the dining table with Jasmine. “Yeah it’s going well, tired a lot with balancing being a housewife and being pregnant.” Jasmine jokes as she drinks her orange juice. “I didn’t have to do the first part luckily, the advantages of living with your parents eh.” Ella laughs as Jasmine smiles. “I remember being pregnant with Rose, it was non-stop olives!” Luisa hits out with as she sits down with them holding her red wine glass. “I don’t even like olives.” Rose remarks sarcastically as she stands in the kitchen texting. “Oliver was fussy, all he liked was cheese.” Elaine remarks as she sits down holding her glass of wine. “This one doesn’t really have a particular craving if I’m honest, it’s a balance between McDonalds and pickles.” Jasmine replies, looking confused as she laughs. “Noah loved his pickled onion crisps everyday.” Ella tells them, pulling a face as she says pickled onion. “Sorry I’m late, just had some stuff to sort out.” Sandy says as she walks into the dining room. “Everything okay?” Luisa asks concerned, as Sandy shakes her head. “I forgot how stressful it was to organise moving house.” Sandy remarks, sitting down. “Hold up hold up, you’re moving?” Elaine says surprised. “To East London, it’s for the best really, it’s time to move on.” Sandy smiles, as Luisa insists no one blames them for what happened. “It’s not that, it’s just nothing is keeping us her anymore, we have the chance to start afresh now, and I’m grabbing it with both hands.” Sandy smiles, as everyone nods and congratulates them.

Stacey thanks Lucas as he hands her a large glass of red wine. “I barely used to drink you know, I was a good girl.” Stacey laughs, sipping on the wine. “Alcohol really gets to my head, I do such stupid things so I try not to drink it as much anymore, but tonight’s an exception.” Lucas smirks, as Stacey begins to get uncomfortable. “So is Alex out?” Stacey says, trying to change the subject. “He’s out somewhere with Ciara I think.” Lucas replies, looking at her strangely. “I don’t even know that much about you, yet here I am.” Stacey says laughing slightly. “It must be my good looks that pulled you in.” Lucas says while pretending to admire himself as Stacey laughs. “What did you do before becoming a barmaid in that bar down the road?” Lucas asks, trying to get to know her better. “Ehem…um a…stripper.” Stacey says awkwardly, as Lucas grins at her. “Classy.” Lucas remarks, putting his drink on the table. “It was a bad time for me I guess. I got offered a job and I grabbed it with both hands, I needed the money.” Stacey sighs, reminding herself of what happened. “I don’t judge you for it, times are hard and we have to do what we have to do to survive.” Lucas says, before gulping down his drink as Stacey sits on the couch awkwardly.

“You should probably go soon, Elaine will be wondering where you’ve got too.” Tara sighs as she gets up from the sofa and walks into the kitchen. “She’s over at that get together at Ella Hunters, I’ll drop by soon once I know you’re okay.” Karl informs her, following her into the kitchen. “I’m fine, honestly.” Tara tells him smiling, having sobered up slightly. Karl’s phone begins to ring, and he sighs as Elaine’s name pops up on the screen. “I better take this.” Karl says, walking into the hallway. Tara stands there in the kitchen alone, she turns around and she can see Karl’s wallet on the table at the corner of her eye. She grabs it and opens it up and begins to search through it, finding a small photo of him and Elaine inside it. She tears off Elaine from the photo and puts it in the bin, as she slips the photo of Karl into her pocket. She puts his wallet back on the table, as Karl reenters the kitchen. “I better go, Elaine will go mad if I’m not there soon.” Karl jokes, putting on his coat and taking his wallet from the table. “Thanks for everything tonight.” Tara smiles, as Karl informs her it was no bother. “See you later!” Karl says, as he leaves the flat. Tara breathes a sigh of relief, before taking the photo of Karl from her pocket and smiling at it.

At the Hunters, Andrea sits in the living room reading a magazine, while pouring herself a small glass of wine. “Not at the party with dad?” Lewis asks Andrea as he enters the living room after work. “I’d rather not be with all the gossipy women tonight, I’ll see Ella tomorrow anyway.” Andrea remarks, sipping her wine. “I thought you stopped drinking mum?” Lewis asks confused, as Andrea’s eyes widen as she realises what she is doing. “I have! I have! Moment of weakness eh?” Andrea says, getting up from the sofa and rushing to the kitchen to pour it down the sink. “Are you sure you’re alright?” Lewis asks concerned, following her into the kitchen. “Just a bit stressed that’s all.” Andrea tells him, as he looks at her unconvinced. “I’m fine honestly.” Andrea insists nervously. “Whatever you say.” Lewis remarks, before leaving the room and walking upstairs, as Andrea stands rubbing her forehead stressfully. Over at the Hendersons, Rachel stands cooking dinner for herself as Janice goes through the bills. “That’s the gas bill sorted, just need to find the cash for the electricity bill.” Janice informs her, as she closes up an envelope. “I’ll try to get more shifts at the café, it’s pretty hectic there right now though with what happened to Jack.” Rachel says, as she begins to put the spaghetti onto the plates. “I feel bad making you do all the working, I should really try harder to find a job.” Janice tells her, as Rachel laughs slightly. “It’s alright, working helps take my mind off everything that’s happened to me these past few months.” Rachel tells her, handing her the plate of spaghetti bolognese. “Well think of it this way, who else can say that they’ve had their house blown up and been kidnapped by their own son in the past 6 months?” Janice jokes, as she begins to eat. Rachel lets out a small smile, before beginning to eat. “Do you miss him?” Janice questions abruptly, as Rachel looks at her confused. “Who?” Rachel asks. “Ant, your…son.” Janice says, regretting ever asking the question. “I guess. He done all those awful things to me, but he’s still my son, no matter how much I try to say he’s not.” Rachel sighs, as Janice sits looking at her awkwardly. “I shouldn’t have asked, sorry.” Janice replies, as Rachel shakes her head and informs her it’s fine.

Back at Ella and Daniel’s, the women roll their eyes as they hear chanting and shouting from the other room as they watch the football. “Might head off now if I can drag Conrad away from that television, I’m exhausted, this baby hasn’t stopped kicking all day!” Jasmine complains, drinking her orange juice. “Good luck trying to get him away from there, when football’s on everything else comes second.” Elaine says laughing, but her smile quickly fades as Karl walks into the kitchen. “I’ll be back in a minute.” Elaine tells them, before opening the back door and going into the garden with Karl. “And where were you?” Elaine asks, folding her arms and raising her eyebrows. “Tara’s, she was in a real state…” Karl says, before being interrupted by Elaine. “I don’t want to hear it, it’s all about her now isn’t it?” Elaine says, rolling her eyes. “She’s my friend, how many times do I need to say this?” Karl replies angrily, as Elaine glares at him. “How am I supposed to excuse you all the time at these parties eh?” Elaine complains, putting her hands on her hips. “Who cares? Honestly, you care too much about what people think.” Karl tells her, before storming back inside as Elaine stands out in the garden, sighing as she begins to shiver from the cold air.

“How come if you were a stripper you still won’t sleep with me?” Lucas asks rudely, as Stacey’s eyes widen with shock. “Just because I was a stripper doesn’t mean I always slept around with random guys.” Stacey says sternly, as Lucas apologises. “I’m sorry, I just can’t believe how traditional you are.” Lucas says, smiling slightly as he rubs his forehead. “I don’t jump into bed with every other guy though.” Stacey remarks, looking down to the floor. “I’m not every other guy though am I?” Lucas says jokingly. “I guess not, you’re a nice guy.” Stacey smiles, as Lucas begins to get closer to her. Stacey looks at him confused, before he leans in and begins to kiss her. Stacey pulls away slowly and looks at him with slight worry in her eyes. “I’m not sure about this.” Stacey whispers, but Lucas slowly takes her to the bedroom as she stands awkwardly. She stares at the bed nervously, before slowly getting onto it as Lucas stands smirking. He rips his top off as Stacey stares nervously, before climbing onto the bed and kissing Stacey forcefully as he begins to undress her. “No…no I’m not ready…” Stacey whispers extremely quietly, as Lucas continues to force himself onto her. She stops him from undressing her, however he grabs her by the arms and pins her down on the bed. Stacey’s whispers to stop begin to get quieter and quieter as Lucas continues to kiss her against her will, until eventually her whispers stop and Stacey lies motionless on the bed, traumatized by what is happening…

Cast List (21 Regulars)

Digital Lane aired a massive twist in this evenings episode (13th June), which seen Stacey Collins (Jasmyn Banks) raped by Lucas Carter (Mark Rowley). The storyline has been planned since the turn of the year and has finally arrived on-screen. It was kept a secret until transmission to provide an element of surprise for the viewers, something that has happened a lot more recently on Digital Lane. Here, Jasmyn Banks, who plays Stacey Collins on the show, talks to DigiSoap about her first big storyline on the show:

'I'm so proud to be taking on the challenge of portraying such a big issue in the world today. I've known about the storyline ever since I joined the show back in January, which is why I've been less busy in recent months as we've been preparing for some big stuff for Stacey. Viewers seen a "nice" relationship forming between Stacey and Lucas in more recent episodes, and if you watched carefully you would have noticed how Stacey has been more reluctant with Lucas than her close friend Ciara has been with Alex. I've filmed some real emotional stuff recently, and Mondays episode is the hardest acting work I've ever done. It's going to be an emotional ride, there will be tears!'

When asked about what comes next in the storyline, she revealed:

'It's not going to be a big juicy drama filled storyline, we want to tell more of an emotional story with it about a young girl being raped, which sadly happens more often in the world we live in today. It's not a sensationalist plot, the effects it will have on Stacey will probably for as long as I will be on the show, as you can never forget about something as horrible as rape.'

Digital Lane continues on Monday with the aftermath to Stacey's rape.

Fantastic episode of Digital Lane, you've really excelled yourself during this episode! I can't get over how beautifully this episode was written, it is easily the best episode of Digital Lane I've ever read of Digital Lane and I fully mean that. You are an absolutely magnificent writer and you clearly don't realize how good you are at writing, everything is just perfect with Digital Lane: the grip you have with your characters (you clearly know what each one would do in particular situations), the lovely and flawless dialog you use and the overall story lines and plots which grace the episodes. I really can't put it in to words how proud you should be of this episode of Digital Lane, you deserve a huge pat on the back and I absolutely loved the structure of the episode. It's easy to tell how much you plan for every episode and every plot, they're all strung along perfectly and are executed in the best way possible. I'm just going to get on with the feedback now as I can sense that my ramblings are just boring you but I really want you to know how much I appreciate each and every episode of Digital Lane because you put in a lot of work which is not always recognized. Well done SoapAddict! (This was copied and pasted because I fully agree with everything and felt no point in bringing it back up)

Omg, the twist was absolutely fantastic and I cannot believe that this story line is actually going ahead! I can't believe that Stacey is getting such a big story I can tell I'm going to genuinely adore this story because of the screen time Stacey, Sophie and Stephanie which I know I'm going to love. I understand what you meant earlier about what what would happen in tonight's episodes, it was honestly such a harrowing scene to read and I couldn't believe what I was reading but it also sort of makes sense after Lucas wanting to sleep with her and her refusing repeatedly and her going back to the flat with him. I was very worried when Lucas said that he shouldn't drink because bad things happen so I'm presuming Lucas was drunk and he wouldn't have done it sober but I could guess that he was just plain evil because to be honest I've never liked him much as a character!

The party at Ella's was great, it was great how you had written the dynamic of the guy's and then the dynamic of the girl's at the party, it was quite humorous how you had the guys talking about the World Cup and then the women discussing pregnancy cravings and Sandy and Dwayne leaving Digital Lane. It's quite sad that they're leaving even though I've known for such a long time but it's good that they're going for a fresh start because they're never going to progress in their lives now that everybody knows about what Brad did to Elena and the other girls during the Digital Lane Strangler story. I think Karl and Tara's scenes were really good, it was quite sad how Tara could have just told him now and then when he was discussing Elaine's baggage with her son but I wonder what she's going to do with the picture, that's going to be quite interesting and I can't wait to see the plot develop even further, it's going to be very interesting. Fantastic episode SoapAddict101, you just keep improving!

Oh crap, I'm very sorry that I haven't feedbacked DL in ages, I didn't realise it had been so long, is it possible that you could say something as I feel bad for not feedbacking?

I'm loving the developments in the Fosters'. I'm glad that Brad is locked up and away. I'm still bitter with him that he killed Elena so I wont be feeling remorse for him any time soon! Poor Sandy though I'm glad Gracie's staying as she has plenty to give, her reaction has been great. I loved Brad's speech in court about how messed up he his. Terrific writing there SA

Tara/Karl story is so glittering! I'm just loving every moment of it. Karl's chatter about Elaine's child baggage was interesting and made me feel sorry for Tara. I hope the pair grow closer and I'm incredibly excited for the reveal as it'll provide some interesting repercussions for Karl as he seems to come across as a very laid back character. I hope it ends happily for them as it's such and interesting plot and not in the slightest way dull unlike when the real soaps do parental stories because of your terrific characterization, description and dialogue.

Stacey Christ, my mouth felt incredibly dry during those scenes and it was shocking. Poor, poor Stacey I can't wait for next episode to see the long-term aftermath. I have full confidence that you will pull of this story respectfully and realistic unlike one of the real soaps (*cough* John Paul *cough*). It was such a shocking twist but by no means sensationalist!

Superb episodes and I'm sorry I haven't been able to feedback everything

Friday 6th June: First of all, I couldn't be more sorry about how late this feedback actually is. I have 4 episodes to get through and feedback in as much detail as possible so I hope you feel for me! What a brilliant ending to the trial proceedings! You've clearly researched how everything at a courthouse works, you must have done quite a lot actually as I don't have much of a clue what happens but everything you write seemed really accurate to me. I've said this before about Digital Way in my feedback go Cal, but I really like how even if storylines aren't being focused on they still get small mentions, like Tara seeing 22 phonecalls from Vanessa and seeing Karl, even though they aren't the main ones in the episode they aren't forgotten about.

I couldn't be more pleased that Brad did the right thing and told everyone what an evil person he is because I don't think he deserved to get of, well he did murder someone and tried to kill two others so I'm glad he didn't. I have a TINY (massive emphasis on this word) bit more sympathy for him than Drew, as Drew was just 100% vile and never acknowledged anything he did wrong. Sandy's reaction was written excellently, knowing she will probably never see her son again no matter what he's done in the past must hit her quite hard, I just hope now he's out the way her and Gracie can concentrate on re-building their relationship. I also liked how Dwayne tried to support again, even though personally I think she's the opposite of strong. It has been a fantastic chain of storylines and you should be proud of them. Rachel and Karl's conversation was really interesting, I like seeing characters interacting that don't usually as it helps in showing the community spirit of the Lane.

Liking how people aren't forgetting about Wendy's and Frankie's struggles straight away and it's interesting how Jacks death reminded her of Pauly and Natalie, I guess losing someone close to you never really goes away properly. Sophie's idea of a festival was a good one, I'm excited to see it go ahead and all the residents joining together and just enjoying themselves. Wendy's scene with Jack was also a very emotional one and the way she reacted to seeing his dead body was really really realistic. Her speech to him was great to, I think it's clear she can't cope at the moment but that's definitely understandable at the moment, I just hope over time they manage to get through this and have something happy come into their life. I'm sorry I'm being a little vague with feedback at the moment, I'm just excited to get on and read the next episode! Brad was a standout character for me tonight, he put in a really good performance and I'm really glad he had a change of heart and chose to tell the truth instead of get caught up even further in his web of lies.

Monday 9th June: Your writing skills are so indescribable, the way you create the mood and atmosphere of every scene is so effortless yet effective and your characters have so much work put into them, each and every single one of them. Sometimes I kind of wish I could give you little tips for improvement to make the feedback I give you a little more balanced, but I really struggle in picking anything out that's below brilliant. I'm also sure your going to keep up your amazing characterization and I'm also excited for my character to join the cast later in the year (I can't believe he's the first character I've ever made for you) I can't believe how stunning this was The scene at the beginning with utter silence was very touching and reminded me a lot of the episode in the Beales after Lucy had died, but obviously you didn't extend the silence as much as that one.

A nice touch of Conrad saying if he had recovered properly he would have helped carry the coffin, I'm glad Wendy tried to stay strong and give Jack the send-of he deserved. It was lovely to see so many of the Lanes residents wanting to pay tribute to Jack Cole, even ones that didn't know him that well or speak to him that much. The way you've portrayed Wendy and Frankie's grief is so realistic and touching, yet difficult to read at the same time. I'm glad Susan at least bothered to turn up to the funeral, but honestly I don't blame Wendy for not telling her daughter as she only seems to be bothered about the inheritance. Before this episode, I thought deep down she did care about her parents but after today's episode and lack of upset and sympathy I'm not so sure. Wendy's eulogy was really well-written and her just breaking down was so horrible! Even Susan shed a tear, I suppose that proves deep down she is upset about her fathers dead she just prefers not to show it and stay strong.

I'm glad Elaine called her out on her behaviour and told her to be there for the remaining family she has. The whole funeral was beautifully done and you should be really proud of those scenes! I really did think Amelia was starting to forgive Christine over the murder, she did seem to be. I think it was wrong of her as it seems like she was using her to get the loan shark payed of and once she had done that, she showed her what she really thought of her. I hope Christine doesn't hand herself in as she's one of your best characters! I think the scene this episode highlighted that Lillie probably isn't Ciara's main priority and she isn't the best of mothers. She seems more bothered about Alex at the moment which shouldn't be happening. Interested about the text to Jess from Maria and hers and Alfie's chemistry is like of the scale Once again, Wendy in particular pulled it out the bag tonight and at the moment really is proving herself as a layered character.

Tuesday 10th June: You keep on giving your readers such high-quality episodes and you never have a weak one, it's constantly great. I think it's quite a good thing that Wendy and Frankie didn't appear in this episode, as inhibitor their grieving is realistic but having it in every episode would probably get a little tedious and it's nice to let other characters take the spotlight instead of it remaining on one person for a long amount of time. Poor Christine, she clearly has enough on her plate at the moment with Amelia without Ryan arguing with her as well. I'm not really sure who's side I was on in their tiff, as I could get both their viewpoints and honestly I don't think this will be the last time Amelia will get between them (intentionally or unintentionally) but I suppose we'll just have to wait and see! From his little scene with Jess, it's clear Hector has done something to upset them when they were younger, I'm just really intrigued by what...

The Bolen scene in Hectors flat was brilliant and even though so far I'm on Jess side, I do think it was wrong of her to keep it away from her dad that her daughter has 'died' and to lie to Maria she had already told him. After reading it, I think it's clear he's done something only to Jess and not Ryan, but he must disagree with whatever it was if he's on Jess' side. Jess and Hector remind me of Ronnie and Archie but obviously have lots of differences, I just hope Hector didn't rape her although I don't think it's going to be something as severe as that. I'm also pleased that your extending them even more as like I've mentioned to you before, they're one of, if not your best family ever.

It's also good to see that the Stephanie and Christine friendship hasn't been forgotten. They're scene in the car was one of the best in the episode and I'm glad Stephanie was doing anything she could to talk her round and convince her handing herself in wouldn't be the right thing to do, no matter what Amelia thinks. I'm really not sure of Amelia and like I've mentioned before earlier in the feedback, I think she's a user. I'm glad that she had a change of heart though and stopped her sister from going into the police station, it shows that she does care about what happens to her. Were starting to see cracks in Ella and Daniels relationship now, I think they work best when they aren't together and are just friends because I think the stress of Noah is getting to both of them. I think he was really overreacting about the shirt because I'm sure he has others and Ella has a lot on her plate at the moment so I didn't really like him in this episode and I'm glad that Andrea has recognised he is taking advantage of her and wanted to confront him over it, but Ella's to nice and doesn't want that

I liked Stevie today to and she is really funny even though I'm not sure if that's your main intention for her, I find it humorous how forgiving she is when it seems like all her boyfriend does is cheat on her. This scene, like the Geraldine/Rachel/Stevie one was very true to life and good mentions of the World Cup to! Poor Tara the stress of now knowing who her father is is really getting to her so I guess she feels like drinking will help her forget about everything. Nice to see lots of the residents wanting to help her back on her feet and up to her flat, although I was surprised at how she reacted to Karl even though she knows the truth. I'm sure you have lots of tricks up your sleeve with this story anyway. The character who put in the best performance for me this episode is Christine or Jess!

Thursday 12th June: I'm pleased that Andrea wanted to be there for Tara and try and help her sober up, even if she doesn't barely know her or know anything about her situation. I think it's clear Tara was lying when she said she doesn't need anyone to look out for her, as surely she dislikes living in the flat alone knowing her father is across the road practically and not knowing if to tell him or not. When Tara was downing the alcohol I think the other two should have just snatched it of her and thrown it down the sink, you have to be cruel to be kind sometimes however I'm glad that later on in the episode Andrea stopped her from drinking anymore. Andrea is currently proving herself to be a brilliant matriarch and I think the alcoholism storyline suits her wonderfully as on the outside to other people she seems a really good mother who would never do anything to hurt her family, yet it's completely different and it's clear in the past her desperation for alcohol has ruined her family life, but they've obviously managed to stay in tact which shows how strong each and every single one of them is.

Stacey's a very observing woman as she picked up the clues of her being an alcoholic, it's a shame that Andrea is still having these weak moments from time to time without most of her family knowing and I hope they find out soon as I'm sure most of them thing she hasn't touched a drop in a while. The Tara/Karl scene at the end was also very touching and I'm excited for the reveal that she's his daughter as they have a great bond and I can see Karl being the sort of father who would do anything to protect his child, even if it would take him a while to come to terms with it when finding it out. Even Maria who seems to be on good terms with her dad wanted him to leave the siblings alone to talk.

I had a weird feeling he wouldn't really leave and would be listening and he's clearly a very sly and complex person, so I think choosing Larry Lamb to play him was a good move on your part as I can really imagine him in the role and the way he would say the dialogue given. Jamie forcing Abby to have an abortion was disgusting, but even after that I still don't think he deserves to be locked up for a murder that he didn't commit and that didn't even happen, but I'm sure you'll find a way of getting him out of prison. The fact Maria went to see him and was so close to cracking shocks me as I always thought she was the strongest out of The Bolens. Understandable that Maria wants some more time to think but I just see it as more time for Hector to worm his way back in; I'm sure this isn't the last we will see of him.

The Christine/Amelia drama was top-notch as well and it was lovely where Christine told Stephanie she owed her her life, I just see Stephanie as the type of person you could go to about anything that was troubling you if she was real, like the matriarch of the whole Lane. The Sandy/Stephanie scene really put things into perspective. I was never really fussed about Sandy, but even strangers pulling faces at her in the street must be hard for her to stomach and as Stephanie has had it all before because of Jamie, I'm sure it was comforting for Sandy to know someone has been in the same boat as her. Good your giving her and Dwayne a nice light-hearted leaving story because they deserve it after everything. Tara was the star of this episode, said this so many times but she's one of your best newcomers and I'm SO pleased you've given her such a big story as it really gives her a chance to prove herself even more.

Friday 13th June: I've made it to the end of the feedback! I know this may sound like a lie but it's actually took a few days to do this, but if I'm honest I did keep getting distracted which is one of the reasons it has taken so long. OMG poor Stacey that last scene was beautifully done and you kind of see it building up over the course of the episode, with her giving him an insight into her past life as a stripper and him constantly asking, not just in today's episode, why she isn't ready. Lucas assuming that she would sleep with him just because she was a stripper was disgusting quite frankly and like Cal, I've never really been a fan of him and I could tell there was something dodgy about his person. It's just how you said that her whispers just passed out, that was really good writing and really touching to, I'm glad you've also said that the effects will stay with Stacey for as long as she is on the show, as the aftermath to Hanna's rape in DT wasn't very strong but I'm sure your going to do it justice!

The get together at Ella and Daniels was a really nice way to get lots of the residents together and I think it really highlighted the different interests your males and females had. I found the thing where everyone was placing bets as to who would win The World Cup and I know your a big football fan so I'm not surprised you want to get in as many mentions of it as possible! It is quite a shame that Sandy and Dwayne are packing up and moving to East London, but at the same time I think its a really good thing as they get to escape all the bad memories and leave them behind for a new and better life, we know that Gracie isn't leaving though but do they think that she's going with them or haven't they told her yet? When I read the bit about Dwayne selling the gym Hector Bolen popped into my head and I really don't know why as it probably isn't him, I just had a weird feeling it is. The talk about pregnancy cravings was really true to life as well and added a touch of realism to things, you have a brilliant balance of light and shade. It was kind of nice in a way for Tara to get the picture of Karl and keep it for herself as she knows she constantly has that with her, it must be horrible for her not knowing what to do. Elaine's annoying me a little now, one moment she seems to be okay with Karls friendship with Tara but she does have these sudden streaks of anger at times.

The brief Lewis/Andrea and Rachel/Janice separate scenes were also nice touches and I can't believe Andrea just seemed to forget that she was drinking in front of her son, everything just seems to be getting to her and affecting her in negative ways, she's trying her hardest not to become a pessimist. I'm liking all the brief scenes with Rachel in, she's a great character and it's good to see Ant being mentioned, she's a fantastic character and I'm sure you have plenty planned for her in the future. I must admit that I've never really been that interested in Stacey as a character before, but it's good you've given her such a big story as it puts her straight at the forefront. Absolutely fantastic work SA, DL is really on top form at the moment and you should be more than proud!

Thankyou Cal for your consistent and detailed feedback, it really means a lot to me.

Thankyou Winter for catching up, please don't worry about feedback as I've still got a lot of DSQ to catch up on!

Thankyou Owen for taking the time to catch up on the episodes you've missed, it put a massive smile on my face reading it and it really meant a lot to know you're still enjoying DL.

Ignore this...