The Rumour

Joanna, seeking a fresh start, moves to Flinstead with her son Alfie. While trying to integrate into the community, she inadvertently spreads a rumour that a notorious child killer might be living among them.

With Joanna caught in the chilling rumours, tensions rise and Alfie goes missing. Panic consumes her as she frantically searches, fearing the worst. And on Halloween night, there's a shocking discovery.

The community is left reeling by shocking events, and further revelations shine an even darker light on the town. Joanna is left questioning her allies.

Joanna becomes obsessed with finding out who Sally McGowan is. Michael is horrified by Joanna's behaviour and reveals he knows she scared a child in London. Undeterred, she believes a prison painting could expose the truth. Fired from work, she rushes to Kay's house and saves her from a gas leak. Joanna tips off Zac, but when he exposes Liz, Bea realises Joanna was the source.

Joanna reels from the truth while Bea faces the fallout. As Michael warns Bea, unaware they're being watched, Joanna discovers Rachel has taken Alfie. Desperate, she tracks them to a derelict house, where Rachel demands Bea's confession. Flames erupt, chaos ensues, and Joanna seizes the moment to escape with Alfie.