Forbidden Attraction: Zack and Vicki Cross the Line in EastEnders After Trauma Unleashes Hidden Desire
A Family in Freefall
Ever since Vicki Fowler returned to Walford, she’s faced nothing but hardship. What started as a quiet return from Australia quickly turned into a nightmare when the dark truth about her stepson Joel emerged. From illegal “up-skirting” to public humiliation and a horrifying assault on Vicki herself, Joel’s spiral left scars no one could ignore.
Her partner Ross Marshall initially protected his son. But when Joel’s violence turned inward, he finally took action—reporting him to the police. Yet for Vicki, it was too little, too late. She ended their relationship, unable to forgive Ross for exposing her to Joel’s toxic influence.
A Night Out Turns Ugly
Struggling with trauma, Vicki finds herself drowning in guilt and fear. Last week, she clashed with sleazy Damon, Chelsea Fox’s new date, after he tried to spike Chelsea’s drink. Vicki confronted him twice—first at the bar, then in the laundrette, where she shoved him in a moment of panic.
Damon hit his head. Zack Hudson, ever the protector, swooped in. He seized Damon’s phone, found proof of his womanising, and blackmailed him into silence. Vicki was safe—for now.
A Kiss That Changes Everything
The confrontation unlocks something deeper between Vicki and Zack. For the first time in months, she feels heard and protected. She opens up to Zack about how Joel left her feeling weak and ashamed. Zack, quiet and steady, simply listens.
One quiet moment becomes something more. A kiss. Witnessed—unfortunately—by Kathy Beale, who immediately rebukes them. But the spark is real. Later that night, Vicki and Zack continue their flirtation over text.
Ross Tries Again… But Is It Too Late?
Next week, Ross tries to win Vicki back after another upsetting incident with a male punter. She agrees to a drink, hoping to keep things civil. Though she wants to shut the door on her feelings for Zack, it’s clear the bond they’ve formed is growing stronger.
Vicki attempts to reconnect with Ross—but the energy isn’t there. Her mind keeps drifting back to Zack.
Are They Too Close for Comfort?
Ross may believe time and effort can heal their fractured romance. But EastEnders fans have seen what Vicki truly needs: support, respect, and someone who stands up for her. That’s exactly what Zack offers.
Is this the start of a controversial new couple—or a dangerous love triangle ready to explode?