Chelsea’s meddling ways get the better of her in Neighbours when she witnesses a moment between Paul and Terese that prompts her to sabotage a memorial to Terese’s late son.
This week, Paul (Stefan Dennis) and Terese (Rebekah Elmaloglou) commiserate over both having lost a child. Paul’s son David (Takaya Honda) recently died, while Terese’s son, Josh (Harley Bonner), was killed in an explosion at Lassiters Hotel years before.
The once-married couple share a sombre but deep moment in the hotel foyer looking at a plaque in Josh’s memory, which sends Chelsea (Viva Bianca) into a jealous spin.
“Chelsea is triggered by any shared moments between Paul and Terese,” Viva tells TV WEEK. “The moment over Josh’s plaque represents their long history as well as their newfound relatability over losing a son. Chelsea is worried that this connection might strengthen, and she might lose Paul to Terese.”
Chelsea interrupts their heartfelt moment to send a message to Terese.
“Chelsea sees Terese as a successful older woman who has built a robust business for herself – exactly what Chelsea aspires to,” Viva explains. “Moreover, Chelsea recognises that Paul still carries a torch for Terese.”
In return, Terese confronts Chelsea, telling her she’s aware she’s trying to take advantage of Paul while he’s grieving and vulnerable.
“It’s no secret that Chelsea wants financial security with Paul,” Viva says. “But Chelsea is also falling for Paul and sees a real future by his side in a genuine and romantic sense. Terese’s brazen public confronting of Chelsea is a sucker punch.”
Chelsea retaliates by wrapping Josh’s plaque in plastic and tossing it in a pile of debris, determined for it to wind up in the trash.
What effect will Chelsea’s act have? Could it cost her Paul and the lifestyle she covets?