While everyone else was still blinded by Celia’s kindness, Laurel Thomas was the first one to soberly realize that something was wrong.

She noticed every little sign: Ray’s avoidance when asked about his job, the inconsistent stories about the farm workers, and the fearful looks Laurel saw when someone mentioned Celia.

Laurel began to piece things together. None of the people who had worked for Celia had a clear story.

Some disappeared suddenly. Some returned looking quiet and exhausted.

Some didn’t even dare to talk about their time at the farm. The deeper Laurel dug, the more she sensed something fishy.

Things became tense when the police suddenly appeared at the Depot – where Celia and Ray often left their goods. Instead of reacting like “innocent people”, Celia and Ray were hypervigilant, then tried to cover up the information. The strangeness of it all kept Laurel on edge.

She began to gather clues: testimonies, eyewitness accounts, clandestine activities. When Laurel shared her suspicions, some told her to “stay out of the way.” But then others nodded, because they too had felt the chills whenever Celia appeared.

Laurel knew the price of investigating a ruthless man. But silence meant aiding the crime. And Laurel chose to confront him. She quietly watched Ray, noted the cars leaving the ranch in the middle of the night, and noticed that the number of people coming in and out of the place was not stable.

Laurel was not a professional detective. She was just an ordinary woman, living by intuition and kindness. But that also made her the greatest threat to Celia – because Laurel was not bribed, did not fear the truth, and did not owe her any favors.

In that context, Laurel became the first ray of light. She sees Celia’s true nature beneath her moral veneer. And she’s the one who starts the fight – knowing that one misstep could see it all come crashing down on her.

Emmerdale is no longer peaceful. But if Laurel goes all the way, Celia’s reveal won’t be far off.