Stacey Slater (Lacey Turner) finally plucks up the courage to tell ex-husband Martin Fowler (James Bye) how she really feels about him in EastEnders this week – but it might just be too late.

The pair will share an unexpected kiss in forthcoming scenes, after a heart-to-heart about Martin’s plans to be a donor for his son Roman, who is in need of a liver transplant.

Fans of the BBC soap have the former couple grow closer following the return of Martin’s other ex-wife Ruby Allen (Louisa Lytton) last month.

Martin was stunned when he learned Ruby had secretly given birth to his son while in prison, but faced heartbreak when it was revealed the youngster was seriously ill.

On Monday, Martin admits his fears about the operation to Stacey, and after an emotional moment, he tries to kiss her. 

Later in the week, Martin is preparing for surgery as he and Stacey remain confused by the kiss and what it might mean. 

Martin opens up to best friend Zack Hudson (James Farrar), who discourages him from thinking about Stacey and instead concentrate on Ruby and Roman. 

Meanwhile, Stacey confides in her mum Jean Slater (Gillian Wright), who tries to get her to see what she really feels for Martin and go and see him in hospital before it’s too late…

Will Stacey heed her mum’s advice, and will Martin reciprocate? 

Actress Lacey Turner says of her character’s feelings for Martin: ‘I think seeing Ruby with him has probably made her go. “Oh, I definitely do have feelings for him, but maybe I’m a bit late.”

‘I always think Martin and Stacey would be a wonderful old couple, but I don’t know. I’d love to see them together forever, but who knows. It always seems to go a bit pear-shaped when they are together, so maybe they’re like Ross and Rachel [from Friends].’

EastEnders airs these scenes from Tuesday 17 December at 7.30pm on BBC One, or stream from from 6am on iPlayer.