Lauren Branning made a shock return to EastEnders tonight.
Jacqueline Jossa's character hasn't been seen on-screen since she left the BBC soap in early 2018.
She was last seen leaving Walford with son Louis after attending sister Abi's funeral.
Lauren, who is now living in New Zealand with Peter Beale, made her EastEnders comeback tonight in Max's hour of need.
Devastated that baby Abi was still missing, emotional Max decided to reach out to daughter Lauren.
Lauren seemed very surprised by the call and asked her dad why he was phoning.
Max said: "No there's no reason. Just wanted to hear your voice, that's all."
With his voice-trembling, Max continued: "No I've just...been thinking about you, that's all."
Lauren was clearly concerned with how her niece was getting on - but Max lied about baby Abi's whereabouts.
"Abi's fine," said Max. "No, she's fine. She's sleeping here beside me."
It was clear that Lauren didn't have time to talk and Max put down the phone so she could go and have dinner.
Once the call had ended, Max broke down in tears then reached for the bottle.
EastEnders viewers are calling for show bosses to bring back Lauren.
One fan said: "I miss Lauren she's my favourite character"
"Can Lauren come back now please," added another.
A third said: "Bring back Lauren!
Speculation has been rife that Jacqueline Jossa may be returning to the soap.
Her character was first mentioned again a month ago when Kathy revealed Lauren and Peter were "going through some problems"
Ian Beale has recently returned from New Zealand after visiting the pair and his grandson, Louis.
Could Lauren come back to help Max find baby Abi?
*EastEnders continues on Friday night on BBC One at 7.30pm
