Note: This article contains discussion of child grooming that some readers might find difficult to read.
Emmerdale's child grooming storyline took another dark turn tonight as Jacob Gallagher and Maya Stepney slept together for the first time.
Maya has spent months manipulating Jacob, who is a pupil at her school and her boyfriend's son, making him feel like they are in a relationship.
Tonight's (March 4) episode saw David and Maya plan to spend the night together in a hotel after Maya's plans to be alone with Jacob were rumbled in Friday's cliffhanger, but a jealous Jacob managed to sabotage things so that David and Maya's night together ended up being cancelled.
This meant the coast was clear for Jacob to turn up at the hotel instead and get into bed with Maya.
It was an uncomfortable scene for viewers to watch, especially considering the lengths Jacob has gone to in order to twist things, as well as how far Maya has taken things with Jacob.
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But while the story might be tough to watch, it's definitely important, particularly as Emmerdale is exploring a fresh take on soap grooming plots, which typically focus on male abusers, and highlighting abuse that may otherwise go unnoticed.
The show has also been working with survivors to make sure they tell the story properly, while producer Kate Brooks has promised that the storyline will feature the "right outcome" when it does eventually get resolved.
At the moment, though, Jacob is very much caught in Maya's web.
Emmerdale airs weeknights at 7pm on ITV, with an extra episode at 8pm on Thursdays.
Rape Crisis England and Wales works towards the elimination of all forms of sexual violence and sexual misconduct. If you've been affected by the issues raised in this story, you can access more information on their website or by calling the National Rape Crisis Helpline on 0808 802 9999. Rape Crisis Scotland's helpline number is 08088 01 03 02.
Readers in the US are encouraged to contact RAINN, or the National Sexual Assault Hotline on 800-656-4673.
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