Hollyoaks teen Harry Thompson is to become a new love interest for Ste Hay, Digital Spy can exclusively confirm.
The pair will become an item later this year in a move that is bound to spark surprise and heartbreak within the village.
Fans saw the first hints of an attraction between Harry (Parry Glasspool) and Ste (Kieron Richardson) in Tuesday's E4 first look episode as they shared an unexpected moment at Diane O'Connor's flat.
While viewers will have to wait a while for things to develop further, the moment was the beginning of a big new storyline for the characters.
What the plot means for Ste's future with his husband John Paul McQueen remains to be seen, leaving fans to wonder whether Ste and Harry's connection will be a clandestine affair or if Ste and John Paul are heading for a shock split.
Ste and Harry share a moment
© Lime Pictures
Ste and Harry share a moment
© Lime Pictures
A Hollyoaks source told Digital Spy: "Harry and Ste get together later this year, but their decision could have huge consequences for a number of characters.
"Ste is best friends with Harry's father Tony, but their friendship may not survive once the relationship gets under way. John Paul and Sinead, who both have strong feelings for Ste, will also no doubt have their own parts to play in the story."
Tuesday's E4 airing saw Harry confide in Ste about his ongoing confusion over his sexuality, admitting that he wasn't ready to tell Tony the truth just yet.
Ste promised to support Harry in the meantime, pointing out that he had been through similar experiences himself.