Note: This article contains discussion of alcoholism.

EastEnders has aired an unexpected kiss for Johnny Carter and Callum Highway following Linda’s collapse.

Emotions ran high in the latest episode of the BBC soap after Linda was rushed to the hospital for drinking a whole bottle of vodka and almost choking on her own vomit. Prior to these distressing scenes, she and Johnny had been in a heated argument, with him telling her he wished she’d died instead of Mick.

In tonight’s (August 14) episode, Johnny resented Gina Knight for having lost sight of Linda, thus allowing her to drink with Bernie Taylor. He ordered Gina to move out, despite Elaine Peacock urging him to be reasonable.

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At the hospital, Jonny, Elaine and Gina learnt that Linda would be okay. Johnny went in to see her and apologised for his harsh words.

“I didn’t mean it. I love you, Mum,” he told her, adding: “I should have not left you alone.”

In a heartbreaking moment, Linda told her son she was “disappointed” to still be alive, leaving a guilt-ridden Johnny to reassure her.

“You’re going to be okay,” he told her.

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Later on, a distressed Johnny publicly confronted Bernie, accusing her of nearly killing Linda. In earlier scenes, Bernie demanded to have a private chat about Keanu Taylor with Linda, pulling out a bottle of vodka and inviting her to join in.

Callum stopped Johnny as he was storming out of the cafe. The two had a conversation, with Johnny admitting he felt responsible for Linda’s drinking after their argument and his insisting that she take the stand in Dean Wick’s trial for Keanu’s murder.

Callum reminded Johnny not to be too hard on himself and that Linda’s alcoholism wasn’t his fault.

“Today was a hiccup,” the police officer said, adding that all Johnny could do was to be there for his mum.

“She’s so lucky to have you. You’re special, Johnny,” Callum continued, getting closer to Johnny.

The sweet moment led to a kiss, but Callum pulled away almost immediately, telling Johnny he was still committed to his relationship with Ben Mitchell.

He then comforted an embarrassed Johnny, urging to move forward from the awkward kiss and to clear the air with Gina.

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Back at the hospital, Johnny apologised to Elaine, admitting he needed his family. He once again came clean to Linda about his own struggles and encouraged her to seek professional help for her addiction.

“I’m gonna be here every step of the way,” he said.

Meanwhile, Gina had her mind set on moving out. She spoke with her dad George about staying at her mum Cindy Beale’s for a while, unaware of her affair with George’s son, Junior.