After Leyla Harding’s 2023 got off to a rocky start, Emmerdale fans have “sussed” what might be in store for her.
Despite the fact that Roxy Shahidi’s Leyla (an Emmerdale fan favorite) only wed Liam Cavanagh (Jonny McPherson) in 2021, the couple had a rocky beginning to their union and decided to divorce earlier in 2022.
However, after spending some of the holiday season with Liam, drug addict in recovery Leyla hoped to see him again. But when Leyla opened up to Liam on Saturday’s New Year’s Eve episode, he didn’t seem to share her sentiments. ITV soapopera viewers “predicted” that the troubled character would relapse as she walked away in tears.
Leyla arrived at The Woolpack after the villagers had gathered to ring in the new year.
When Liam welcomed her, she told him about their divorce.
Liam said with a smile, “Hello, I was starting to think you wouldn’t make it.”
Leyla retorted, “I nearly didn’t actually; I’ve been going crazy trying to decide whether I should show up or stay away.
She acknowledged: “I wasn’t sure if you meant it, you know. Liam asked why.
“if you truly desired my presence. However, it’s five minutes until the stroke of midnight, and I won’t let this year pass without saying this.
“You know, the dinner with me, you, and the family yesterday.
Didn’t it make you wonder if we are rushing into this, just maybe?
Liam looked perplexed as she continued, “Do you really want a divorce?”
Liam’s expression immediately indicated that Leyla’s statement had taken him by surprise.
Leyla, it was just play-acting, for Jacob’s (Gallagher, Joe-Warren Plant) friend, he said, looking perplexed.
However, Leyla pointed out that play-acting was what ultimately brought the two of them together.
Liam nodded, “True, true,” before he added, “But… I’m not sure anyone’s ready for the sequel yet, is he?
Leyla looked embarrassed as Liam went on: “Just pause there for a moment, please. Okay, let me just get us some drinks.”
Leyla, distraught, just walked away as Liam went to get the drinks.
After watching the episode, viewers immediately posted on social media to show their support and concern for Leyla.
Many feared Leyla’s drug use might return as a result of the upsetting rejection.
@RyanTheSoapking, a user on Twitter, wrote: “Tonight, I felt sorry for Leyla. I really hope she doesn’t #Emmerdale relapse.”
“Ffs Liam – don’t push Leyla into the arms of Dim Dave – not for round two please!!!! #emmerdale,” @penniless poet continued. (sic)
What @Tonguetwisteruk foresaw “#Emmerdale Leyla might be in for another fall, in my opinion.”
Domain Harry commented with the hashtag #emmerdale and the heartbreak emoji, “Oh no poor Leyla.”
“Oh Leyla don’t walk off. #Emmerdale,” said @EnfieldGarry.
Posted by @paulineburke6: “Leyla, what does she see in Liam? He is a prize rat! #Emmerdale.”
Leyla had a challenging year due to her addiction. She started using cocaine over the summer as her marriage fell apart.
After Liam’s rejection, Leyla is likely to feel more alone than ever, and it’s possible that 2023 will witness her returning to the dark path.
Will she have access to the support she needs?
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