The tension in Weatherfield this week is as intense as a string as the abuse storyline – which has been creeping viewers out for weeks – continues to escalate to a new, suffocating level.

Coronation Street is cleverly building a story that even those involved cannot foresee the consequences.

And what’s even more frightening: secrets hidden in silence are about to explode.

The victim character (whose identity is still being “kept secret”) begins to show clear signs of breakdown.

This person avoids touch, is startled when someone touches his shoulder lightly, and even bursts into tears at a seemingly normal conversation. But what makes viewers shiver is the sophisticated control of the abuser. Not the obvious beatings, but psychological manipulation, mental intimidation and behaviors that make the victim feel “guilty”.

The next episode reveals the victim finally losing her cool – a fierce argument breaks out at home, with accusations that leave bystanders breathless. Because this is the first time the truth has been told. However, the heartbreaking thing is that the victim is doubted by relatives: “Are you sure?”, “Are you too nervous?” – sentences that unintentionally push them back into loneliness.

But the seeds of truth have been sown. A friend or neighbor accidentally overhears the argument, and begins to notice the unusual things they have seen: bruises on the hands, fearful eyes, the way the other person constantly checks the phone. They will become the first support – but will they be strong enough to confront the abuser, who is very good at twisting words?