To say relations have been complicated between exes Martin Fowler (James Bye) and Ruby Allen (Louisa Lytton) since her return to EastEnders would be an understatement.

The former couple have struggled to find a way forward amid their son Roman’s health worries, and next week, Martin blows a chance to make amends.

Martin was left stunned last month when Ruby made a shock return to Walford and it was revealed she’d secretly given birth to a son during her three years away.

The market trader then learned that his secret son was ill in hospital and may need a liver transplant.

Since then, Martin seemingly tried to patch things up with Ruby, before she then uncovered his covert plan to go for custody of Roman.

In scenes to air next week, Ruby seeks revenge by blocking him from visiting Roman in hospital. 

When Martin arrives to check on him, the nurse turns him away, having promised Ruby to get rid of him.

However, when the doctor reveals a worrying change in Roman’s condition, Ruby heads to Walford to find Martin. 

An angry Martin then blows an opportunity to make peace with his ex-wife. 

While it remains to be seen if the former husband and wife can find a way to work together for their son, actress Louisa Lytton recently revealed her hopes of a romantic reunion between them. 

She said: ‘When me and James first started the Ruby and Martin relationship we had all of two days on set and then we went into lockdown. So when we came back to continue the storyline everything was behind a screen and we weren’t allowed to touch. 

‘We felt as actors we didn’t get the shot we wanted to give them the relationship and chemistry on screen. I’m hoping for that reason we get to see if they can rekindle something. 

‘I think Ruby loves the idea of him as a family man,’ she added.

EastEnders airs these scenes from Monday 9 December at 7.30pm on BBC One and from 6am on iPlayer.