Episode 4336 (14th April 2006)

Plot
When Steph turns down Alan’s lunch invitation, Adam tells her that they must keep up appearances to avoid suspicion and insists they go. During lunch Steph does her best to hide her turmoil but eventually breaks down. Adam manages to get her out of the pub, leaving Jack and Alan concerned. Toni is devastated to learn that Jimmy has given the job to Chas. Seeing her upset, Paddy gives her a comforting hug before bracing himself and admitting that he loves her. Toni gratefully replies that she loves her best mate too. Paddy is left feeling gutted. Val worries that she’s been neglecting Noreen and is concerned when she finds her curtains drawn. Val enlists Eric’s help and they discover she is too scared to show her face in public since her wig removing incident. To everyone’s amazement, Eric comforts her and eventually convinces Noreen to come out of hiding. Val is clearly impressed as she sees Eric in a new light.