The way Shabnam reacted when Masood told her she should tell her mum about her new job. Sounded like something has happened to Zainab or she had died. Plus there's the whole Shabnam's secret thing...

No just really bad writing from Katie Douglas

I hope the secret is something Zainab-related (so it could pave the way for her return) but I don't think they would kill her off-screen.

I think a Zainab return is long overdue (even though she's only just gone!)

Masood would have Kamil if she had died. i am sure when shabnam returned she was not happy that her mum had left and zainab and masood had split maybe thats why or maybe she knows mummy has a new boyfriend and is not happy about it

Unwell she only left about 18 months ago so she has plenty of time to return

she's been gone about 2 years

it sounded to me like Masood does hear from Zainab, so no she isnt dead.