Initially deciding to stay at home, a distressed Vicki was persuaded to attend The Vic for the weekly quiz night where she began to make small progress with Joel’s father, Ross (Alex Walkinshaw)

The pair shared a drink together, and there were clear signs of chemistry, but Vicki then noticed some suspicious behaviour from Chelsea’s date, Damon.

He was ordering her triple measures in drinks, evidently trying to get her drunk and take advantage. Vicki confronted the man, and was later appalled to overhear him on the phone to his wife.

Chelsea instructed her to step back, clarifying that whilst she was aware of his marital status, this didn’t justify his behaviour as yet another man who believed he could exploit women without consequences.

Subsequently, Vicki and Damon encountered each other at the launderette, where he remained steadfast in his position and approached her menacingly.

Vicki shoved him in self-defence, causing him to tumble to the ground and strike his head during the fall.

Despite Vicki’s defensive actions, numerous EastEnders viewers found themselves captivated by the spark between Vicki and Zack. Whilst Vicki serves as the adoptive sister of Sharon Watts (portrayed by Letitia Dean), Zack remains Sharon’s biological half-brother.

In upcoming episodes, Zack and Vicki are destined to develop a deeper bond as she opens up to him regarding the enduring consequences of Joel’s assault.

The duo will also exchange a kiss, disappointing certain fans given their shared connection through Sharon, despite Vicki and Zack having no blood relation.