HOTTES NEWS TODAY!!! EastEnders’ Ian and Elaine to make a big decision after their kiss

After months of heated rivalry, Ian and Elaine’s political campaigns came to a fiery head when the businessman pipped Elaine to the post thanks to his girlfriend Bea Pollard’s meddling.

elaine knight, ian beale, eastenders

Despite Elaine’s initial upset, Ian’s soft side came to the surface and he apologised – leading them to snog!

“Ever since Ian and Elaine locked lips, they haven’t known how to act around each other,” explains our EastEnders source.

Advertisement – Continue Reading Below

“Ian’s a single man now that he’s dumped his crazy ex-girlfriend Bea, and he and Elaine have developed a genuine bond – which is rare for him.

“If he knows what’s good for him, he’ll realise what he has and ask Elaine out on a proper date before someone else does. Perhaps sparks could fly over a plate of jellied eels…”

In the Vic, Ian and Elaine decide to dispel any awkwardness between them and clear the air. The former rivals agree to just be friends – but can they keep that promise?

ian beale, elaine knight, eastenders

“Ian and Elaine weren’t even friends before they kissed, so the idea that they can be all civil now that they fancy each other seems pretty unlikely,” continues our spy.

“They’re no longer in competition with each other, so there’s no need for them to return to the barbed digs.

“Plus, both of their exes are newly loved up too, so they may as well just give in to their desires. After all, Peacock Palace has plenty of bedrooms.”

Despite their mutual understanding, Ian kisses Elaine’s hand at the bar and the two exchange furtive glances while they await their drinks.

ian beale, elaine knight, eastenders

After such a tumultuous dynamic, is this really the end of Ian and Elaine’s budding romance?

Or could there be more passion on the horizon for the new councillor and his favourite hotelier?

Speaking earlier this year about their chances, Harriet Thorpe – who plays Elaine – told Inside Soap: “I love the beef they have. There are serious stories going on with other characters that are often life and death, but with Ian and Elaine, it’s the pettiness and hilarity of the neighbourhood WhatsApp group, and it’s a joy to play.”

Asked whether they’d ever get together, she replied: “I couldn’t possibly say! Ian is another one [as well as Max Branning] who’s worked his way around the Square, I don’t think Elaine has time for all that, but who knows?”