The McDonalds’ divorce proceedings in Coronation Street appeared to be on track for a civil resolution, but beneath the surface, unresolved tensions remained. While both parties initially agreed to keep the process calm for their daughter’s sake, a recent turn of events has exposed hidden motives and forced one member of the household to reconsider where they stand.

A Civil Front with Hidden Intentions

Following the breakdown of their second marriage earlier this year, Steve and Tracy McDonald agreed to go their separate ways. Though their long and complicated history left emotional scars, they aimed to keep the divorce proceedings straightforward. Tracy began spending more time with newcomer Carl Webster, while Steve moved forward with Cassie Plummer. When Steve and Cassie made their relationship official, Tracy did not hide her displeasure.

Despite previously pursuing Carl, she reacted strongly to Steve’s new romance. However, rather than confront him directly, Tracy approached Steve with a proposal. She suggested they keep the divorce amicable, framing the offer as being in Amy’s best interest. Steve welcomed the suggestion. He believed Tracy’s offer has a genuine attempt at cooperation and felt reassured by the possibility of avoiding conflict. But Amy grew suspicious.

Coronation Street: The Scheme Comes Undone

Amy’s concerns proved valid when Tracy’s deception was exposed. In upcoming episodes, Steve and Cassie confront her at Preston’s Petals with a copy of the shop’s valuation. The document, which was relevant to the divorce settlement, had not been passed on to Steve’s solicitor. Tracy had deliberately kept it hidden in an effort to gain an advantage during negotiations.

Steve reacts with anger. He feels betrayed after letting his guard down, believing they had agreed on a transparent process. In response, he tells Tracy he will ensure he receives what he is entitled to and makes it clear that her tactics will not go unanswered. Tracy’s frustration goes toward Amy. She suspects her daughter of leaking the document to Steve and blames her for disrupting the plan.

A Departure from Number 1

Unable to tolerate the ongoing manipulation and conflict, Steve decides to pack his belongings and move out of Number 1. His relationship with Cassie is now in the open, and he no longer sees a reason to remain in the house that has become the centre of constant disputes.

A production source explained that Steve’s decision to leave aligns with his efforts to move on. They shared that, having entered a relationship with Cassie, it felt like a natural step for him to put distance between himself and Tracy. However, they also pointed out that Steve had genuinely believed Tracy’s promise to keep the divorce hassle-free. With that trust broken, the original agreement appears to have completely unraveled.

As Steve leaves Number 1 behind, the question now is whether this separation will bring much-needed clarity, or deepen the already growing divide within the McDonald family. Stay with Soap Opera Daily for the latest Coronation Street updates and all your soap news.