Tom King from “Emmerdale” manipulates Belle after a violent incident

Note: The following article refers to physical and emotional abuse.

Emmerdale spoilers follow.

In tonight’s episode of Emmerdale (May 17), Tom King continues to manipulate his wife Belle after becoming violent towards her again.

This week, the villain manipulated Belle into turning against the Dingles because they interfered with her plans to have a baby.

Tom’s anger reached boiling point in last night’s hour-long episode (May 16) when he brutally punched Belle in the stomach after she reminded him of the ways he had controlled and intimidated her.

In tonight’s episode, Tom returned home and apologized to Belle for hurting her. “I really don’t know why I did that. I would never hurt you,” he said.

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“You acted like I was some kind of monster.”

After enduring the torment of the last few months, Tom’s apologies did not reach Belle, who told her, “I can’t do this anymore. You have to go.”

When Tom heard Belle’s answer, he decided to tell her a sad story about his whereabouts – even though he had previously been seen throwing away a spa receipt.

“I literally sat there all night worrying about you, if you were hurt. I slept in a freezing cold car to give you space, to make you feel safe,” he said. “I’ve lost everyone that’s ever meant anything to me, my father, my mother. I can’t lose you too.”

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To win Belle back over to his side, Tom admits that he couldn’t live without her and that he wouldn’t trust himself if she left him.

A concerned Belle then urges Tom to seek help for his violence and anger issues, which he reluctantly accepts.

“You’ll get help, right?” Belle confirmed, to which Tom replied, “Of course. Immediately. Tomorrow, to be exact. The rest of our lives begin here, Belle, I swear.”

Will Tom stay true to his word?

“Emmerdale” airs weekdays at 7:30pm on ITV1 and streams on ITVX.

You can find more spoilers for “Emmerdale” on our special homepage.

If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this story, organizations like Refuge (www.refuge.org.uk), peer support for new beginnings (www.newbeginningspeersupport.com) and women’s aid (www.womensaid.org.uk) can provide further assistance and information. The 24-hour toll-free number National hotline for domestic violence cases is 0808 2000 247. The USA National hotline for domestic violence cases is 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text LOVEIS to 22522.

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