Emmerdale airs a rare appearance from Jai Sharma’s son Archie tonight, as the businessman’s surprise new storyline continues. As Jai frets about whether he’s a good dad to Archie, the young character features on screen for the first time this year.

Show bosses have begun exploring a new romantic plot for Jai, who’s unexpectedly growing closer to his troublesome colleague Kerry Wyatt. Kerry saw a softer side to Jai last week as they found themselves trapped together in the office at Caleb Miligan’s depot, where they both work.

In tonight’s episode, Archie appears at the depot and speaks his mind over his father’s priorities.

Archie complains that Jai always puts work before him – and it’s difficult for Jai to argue as he knows that his son has a point.

When Kerry finds out what’s going on, she encourages Jai to make amends with Archie by reassessing his priorities.

Kerry reckons there’s no time like the present, so she urges Jai to fake a sickie – with her help – so that he can spend time with Archie. Is Kerry about to bring out a whole new playful side of Jai?

Archie, who’s still played by Kai Assi, was last seen on Emmerdale mid-way through last year so hasn’t featured in any recent storylines for Jai. Could that start to change now that Jai’s personal life is being explored again?

Meanwhile, this week’s episodes will see Kerry and Jai’s friendship continue to develop.

When Kerry challenges Jai on whether he fancies her and he reveals that he does, the unlikely pair end up sharing a passionate kiss…

“A couple of weeks ago this pair could barely exchange a sneer – and now they’re enjoying a full-on snog session like their life depended on it,” our Emmerdale insider recently teased.

“It’s Kerry who launches herself at Jai, but it’s clear there has been a growing fondness between them since they found themselves trapped together at the depot.

“The usually combative pair both let their guard down and finally found common ground in their love for their kids. But it seems something else may have been kicked off by their deep and meaningful…”