Just when we thought it couldn’t get any more chaotic in Coronation Street, Gary Windass adds fuel to the fire with a surprise move that could just drive Maria Connor round the bend. The tension between Maria and Lou Michaelis is already running at fever pitch, but what happens next could rip everything wide apart.
Lou Crashes the Memorial in Coronation Street
The one-hour special began with Maria asking Lou to keep the salon open while she went to Craig’s memorial service. But Lou being Lou had other plans. She strays away and meets Gary. She expresses her sympathy regarding Craig’s passing and attempts to bond with him. But instantly, Gary reminds her that Craig was not just a copper, he was a friend.
The discussion soon turns a corner when Gary offers to purchase Mick’s van, saying he’d take it if the figure seemed appropriate. Lou beams at the prospect, obviously enthusiastic about the money now that Mick’s in prison. But before Gary has time to draw breath, Lou makes a surprise visit to the Bistro for Craig’s memorial service.
What begins as a courtesy, a respectful nod, builds into uncomfortable tension when Lou’s ordered a drink and sits alone, despite Maria’s objections. Maria, visibly agitated, storms over, pounces on Lou’s wine, and informs her she can’t be welcome to sip and scroll at someone else’s memorial.
In an attempt to remain calm, Lou assures that she’s not like her husband and that Mick will be brought to justice. But Maria doesn’t believe her and accuses Lou of living off her husband’s bad reputation.
Gary’s Secret Bargain Is Exposed
Just when Maria believes the drama’s finished, Lou lets a bombshell drop. She thanks Gary for purchasing Mick’s van, in her presence. Maria’s jaw nearly lands on the floor as she insists on being told why she was left out of the loop.
Gary hastily explains he did it only to benefit Lou’s children. But matters get cloudy later when Lou goes to see Mick in jail and comes to Gary’s defense. She claims he’s the only one being kind to her.
At home, Maria confronts Gary about his motives, but he assures her that his intentions were pure. Next, a text from Lou appears: a “thank-you” with kisses. Rather than fessing up, Gary assures Maria it was from Ed, and quickly erases the message.
Gary insists he’s only doing his part, but that erased text speaks differently. Is he covering for Maria’s feelings, or something more sinister? As allegiances are misplaced and lines are crossed, it appears Gary’s “good deed” may have more weight than he expects.
And if Maria discovers the whole truth? Let’s just say the backlash will leave the memorial in the shade. Stay tuned to Soap Opera Daily for all the tea, turns, and twists from Weatherfield!
