Many Emmerdale fans were left upset by scenes that aired on Friday, while others are predicting a "happy ending" for Arthur Thomas.
Arthur developed a crush on a boy at school, Marshall, and the two became close before Arthur was the victim of a cruel prank. He was left humiliated, but Marshall has since apologised for his actions.
Confessing his feelings, Marshall explained to Arthur that when he asked him for a date, he meant it, rather than it being to wind him up in front of an audience.
READ MORE: Emmerdale fans sickened as scene 'puts them off their tea'
Marshall said he didn't realise anybody was watching, and the two almost kissed before Marshall ran off. Scenes that aired on Friday suggest Marshall's dad doesn't approve of his son having feelings for another boy.
Arthur told Laurel it wasn't right, and that Marshall must feel so confused and alone with a dad like that. But when Marshall approached Arthur, he told him he didn't want anything more to do with him.
He told him he isn't gay and that it's "wrong and disgusting", leaving Arthur devastated. Viewers were clearly upset by the scene.
Taking to Twitter, Ryan said: "Marshall pushing Arthur away because of his father's homophobia [crying emoji]. Marshall is heavily closeted and in denial over his sexuality because of his poisonous father". Amanda said: "Marshall is so being abused by his homophobic dad".
Pam said: "Good grief, Marshall is seriously messing with Arthur's head. That's not nice at all".
But some other soap fans thought a new romance will eventually be on the cards. Felix said: "Ok but I'm actually rooting for a happy ending for Arthur and Marshall", while Mathew said: "I feel sorry for Arthur and Marshall. I hope, in time, the storyline will see them get together".
Emmerdale airs weekdays at 7.30pm on ITV and ITVX
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