EastEnders has seen George Knight accept a surprise proposal from Nicola Mitchell after the two former lovers had agreed to co-parent their unborn child. Tonight’s episode confirmed George had his sights set on buying Walford East, but his hopes were crushed when his offer was rejected.

After telling Nicola, she offered to lend him the money to secure the restaurant. However, George was hesitant to let Nicola any closer after Billy Mitchell warned him against her scheming.

Honey recently encouraged George and Nicola to give their romance another chance, but Billy stopped his wife’s matchmaking. After Teddy previously told Billy that Nicola was trouble, he took it upon himself to let George know he should be careful.

Nicola caught up with George at the cafe later on. Renewing her offer, she was shocked when he said he wasn’t interested.

“I don’t offer sweeteners like this to just anyone, you know?” she tried, reiterating it would be “business” despite her being pregnant with his child.

“If I want a loan, I’ll go to the bank,” George replied coldly as Billy listened in.

Nicola was seething, telling George: “Find some other mug to front you.”

A conflicted George had a chat with Sam Mitchell, asking for advice about Nicola’s business proposition. Sam reminded him they were having a kid together, to which George replied: “Which is why the last thing I need is to be in debt to her.”

“She says it’s just business, but how can it be?” he added, but Sam was adamant he should accept.

That night at Harry’s Barn, a shamefaced George asked Nicola if her offer was still on the table. She played precious, knowing she had him on the palm of her hand. When George asked her if she understood his doubts, she feigned innocence.