Whitney Dean devastated as foster son Ashton is taken away in EastEnders
The fan favourite is set for an emotional exit in upcoming scenes - but could it be in the midst of another heartbreak?
FOLLOWING the loss of her daughter Peach, Whitney Dean has had a dream of becoming a foster parent.
Unfortunately, her first experience results in her losing her foster son Ashton in upcoming EastEnders scenes.
The loveable character portrayed by Shona McGarty has had her fair share of trauma throughout her stint in the BBC One soap.
And after the death of her daughter Peach, she has decided to turn her life around with the help of her partner Zack Hudson (James Farrar).
In recent months, the pair embarked on a journey as they decided to become foster parents.
Their attempts have been successful and they’ve been able to welcome a young boy named Ashton in their home.
Sadly, things won’t be going according to plan for the couple in upcoming scenes of the London-based program.
It all begins when Whitney is woken by Ashton’s cries after he’s triggered by noises outside and goes to console him.
There’s also tension between her and Zack, as he struggles to connect to Ashton.
Later on, this takes a toll on their plans as Zack and Whitney are devastated when they break the news to Ashton that he’s moving to a new foster home.
While Whitney struggles to cope, Zack drowns his sorrows at Peggy’s with Martin Fowler (James Bye).
Meanwhile, Sonia Fowler (Natalie Cassidy) attempts to cheer Whitney up at their small New Year’s Eve bash, but to no avail.
On the market, Whitney later shows Sonia a picture of Ashton settled in his new foster family as she tries to come to terms with his premature departure.
The pair of friends then head to No.25 while Zack and Reiss Colwell (Jonny Freeman) leave to have their own drinks.
Whitney then heads to the allotment to visit Peach’s tree where she is interrupted by Yolande Trueman (Angela Wynter) who shares her own experience on fostering.
She then breaks down in front of Yolande – what will she tell her?
After their heart-to-heart, Whitney makes a decision and heads back to No.3B.
Could she make the decision to leave Albert Square?
Actress Shona McGarty is due to leave EastEnders after 15 years of drama.
This has led fans to beg soap bosses to give her the happy ending they believe she deserves as she has been put through the wringer during her time in Walford.
But will she leave alone or in the company of her beloved Zack for a fresh start?
EastEnders airs from Monday to Thursday at 7.30pm on BBC One.
