Elaine Jones made a understated exit in her own car during Friday night's trip to Coronation Street.
The character, played by Paula Wilcox, packed her bags after her time living with Yasmeen Nazir came to an end.
She ended up back living with son Tim Metcalfe and his wife Sally Webster but Elaine's decision to leave appeared to come after she got put in her place by Sally for making Tim a full English breakfast.
"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to upset your routine," Elaine said after Sally reminded her of her son's heart condition meaning she has him on a strict diet.
"It's not your fault, some people just like to take advantage," Sally replied, appearing to make Tim feel guilty.
But Elaine then told Tim that she had decided to move back to Bolton saying it was time to "pick up her own life again" after making an appearance on the street during Yasmeen's horror at the hands of ex-husband Geoff.
"It’s only Bolton and I’ve still got my shares in Speed Daal so I’ll be popping back. Taking you out to eat there, my treat," Elaine reasoned with Tim as he begged her to stay.
“I think it’s for the best, love."
As she headed for her car, Elaine assured her son: "It's not so much a goodbye as au revoir," before later adding: "I won’t say goodbye, I’ll cry and I’m only a short drive away anyway. No hugs, no kisses.
"It will be like I’ve just gone to the shops. But, you should know this. I love you, very, very much and I’m proud of the man you’ve become."
Now Corrie fans have been left wondering if this is the end of Elaine in Weatherfield.
"Is this actually the last we will see of elaine?!!! i’m BIG SAD #corrie," asked one.
Another said: "I hope this isn’t the last we see of Elaine #corrie."
"Elaine is she leaving? For good? Awe the relationship between Tim and his mum so cute #Corrie @itvcorrie," a third added.
But viewers were even more emotional when Elaine promised to give Tim "three rings" when she arrived home.
Tim gave a wry smile as the phone quickly rung off leaving Sally questioning the caller's patience.
"Elaine gave tim her three rings HOW PRECIOUS #corrie," tweeted one.
Another said: "The give me three rings when you get in made me well up."
"'Three rings' So cute... @itvcorrie #Corrie," a third added.
