Whitney Dean (played by Shona McGarty) is extremely grateful to Gray Atkins (Toby-Alexander Smith) for believing she’s innocent after being charged with the murder of Leo King (Tom Wells). The EastEnders lawyer is determined to secure her freedom but their closeness has led to Whitney developing feelings for him which could lead to the lawyer betraying Chantelle Atkins (Jessica Plummer) to save his reputation.
Gray has stood by Whitney ever since he took on her case despite losing his position at his firm after failing to secure her bail.
In recent scenes, the troubled market trader was kidnapped by Michaela Turnball (Fiona Allen) and Gray came to the rescue.
EastEnders viewers suspected Whitney had developed feelings for the disgraced lawyer as he proved to be her knight in shining armour.
While he physically and emotionally tormented Chantelle, their neighbours believed he was a hero for standing by Whitney.
Read more: EastEnders spoilers: Beloved couple torn apart forever by sabotage?
In upcoming scenes, he advises his client to use flashbacks to piece together what happened the night Leo was killed.
She struggles to keep her emotions together but he explains her memory could help her defence in the trial.
Whitney holds it together enough to give Gray a detailed account of the night before breaking down in his arms.
Discussing the emotional scenes, EastEnders star Toby explained: “At this stage, he doesn’t have any feelings towards her whatsoever.
Explaining Gray’s reaction, Toby continued: “He’s totally caught off guard. It definitely wasn’t part of the plan, it will certainly add a new element to the case that he wasn’t prepared for.”
Meanwhile, the lawyer will learn that Whitney was subjected to abuse at the hands of her husband, Lee Carter (Danny Hatchard).
Gray quizzes Whitney on her past relationships but when she clams up, he discovers the truth from Linda Carter (Kellie Bright).
Discussing the revelation, Toby said: “His profession requires him to detach emotionally when he gets information, that’s part of his job even if what’s being said does resonate within him.
“But I do think when Linda tells him it does make him feel uncomfortable.
“While this is news that could help Whitney in this case, Gray’s initial concern would be that Whitney’s friendship with Chantelle means it’s something that might come out if they open up to each other, so from a more selfish point of view I think that’s more what Gray is thinking.”
Gray will be concerned if Chantelle discovers Whitney was abused, his wife may open up to her friend.
Will the sinister lawyer embark on an affair with Whitney to ensure she would believe him over Chantelle if allegations of abuse surfaced?
EastEnders continues Monday on BBC One at 8pm.
