Emmerdale spoilers follow.
Emmerdale star Fiona Wade has opened up over the uncertain future ahead for her character Priya Kotecha and her on-off love interest Ellis Chapman.
Priya and Ellis (Aaron Anthony) were seen growing closer again during the survival adventure challenge episodes in October. However, their blossoming relationship ground to a halt when Priya sustained burns in the maize maze fire.
While Priya has been concentrating on her recovery, she has pushed Ellis away and has insisted that they can't be together.
Scenes airing over Christmas see Ellis's attentions start to shift back to his ex-girlfriend Belle Dingle (Eden Taylor-Draper). When Priya sees them together, she's heartbroken as she fears that she may have missed her chance with Ellis for good.
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Speaking to Digital Spy and other media about Priya and Ellis's future, Fiona commented: "I think Ellis is very different from any of the previous partners Priya has had.
"She's always had that alpha male, that kind of high-flying business guy who is quite selfish. With Ellis, I think what's really bonded them together is the fact that he's just this sweet guy that's actually very honest and wants to do the right thing by her.
"I think there's genuine feelings there, it's just everything keeps getting in the way for them, which is really sad.
"I always say, this is a soap, so I don't know whether there ever are any happy-ever-afters, but of course, I love working with Aaron Anthony, who is brilliant.
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"It would be great if Priya was happy and found love again and it lasted, but who knows?"
Thursday's Emmerdale episode sees Priya try to take a step forward with her recovery by attending her daughter Amba's Christmas carol performance. However, when the experience becomes overwhelming, she rushes off and leaves Amba alone.
On the fan reaction to Priya's storyline, Fiona added: "I've had an amazing reaction. I'm so thankful to everyone actually, as everyone's been really wonderful.
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"It's been a different story for Priya, which has been really good. They've been so wonderful about it all, saying that it's all been conveyed really well and they've felt so sorry for Priya.
"I think it's really important to have this story out there and for people to be more aware of what burns survivors go through. It's been a wonderful challenge, but it's been great to play."
Emmerdale airs on weeknights at 7pm on ITV, with an extra episode at 8pm on Thursdays.
