Ross and Lewis Barton grew closer on Emmerdale as family secrets started to spill out following the latter’s arrival in the village.

Lewis, the son of Emma Barton, entered the Dales last week, much to the shock of his half-brother Ross, who was previously unaware of his existence.

One lingering cloud over the family is the nature of Emma’s passing, as she was pushed to her death by Moira Dingle back in 2017. Though Ross knows this, Lewis remains under the assumption that Adam Barton killed his mother.

Monday’s (19 May) instalment began with Ross ignoring Lewis’s repeated calls and messages, though he eventually met with his half-brother as Lewis probed once more about the history of their family.

Although initially reserved, Ross detailed his history with Emma right up until her death, but he grew increasingly anxious as Lewis went over the various incidents in her final months.

After both admitted that they could be “blunt” in conversation, they grew closer as Lewis discussed his experience as an autistic individual. However, Ross’s mood worsened when Lewis expressed his excitement about meeting Moira Dingle.

Ross later informed Moira and Cain Dingle that Lewis could now be a factor in all their lives, though Cain wasn’t too enamoured with this prospect. He urged Ross to keep them far removed from any drama.

Moira, however, reasoned that such behaviour would raise suspicion, and said they would greet Lewis while “sticking to the story” regarding Emma. Will the first meeting go swimmingly, or will Lewis continue to ask questions about his mother’s death?

Lewis has made an immediate impression following his arrival in the Dales, and actor Bradley Riches – who has also appeared on Heartstopper and Celebrity Big Brother –previously shared his excitement upon joining the soap as Lewis, declaring it a “bucket list” moment.

“I’m beyond excited to be joining Emmerdale! It’s a real bucket list moment for me, especially since it was my grandad’s favourite soap, I just know he’d be over the moon,” he said in a statement.

“Everyone has been so lovely and welcoming, and the village is even more amazing in real life. I absolutely love my character (though I can’t spill too much just yet!), and I’m just so grateful for this opportunity. I can’t wait for everyone to see what’s in store…”