Looks like the real reason Max Branning returned to EastEnders has been revealed

He made his big return to Albert Square this week.

And it looks like EastEnders has now revealed the reason behind Max Branning's many recent decisions.

Viewers were shocked and horrified this week when Max unveiled his ex-sister-in-law Rainie Cross as his new wife.

While the Walford locals weren't entirely convinced that the quick-fire marriage made Max a changed man, he tried to prove them wrong on Thursday night.

He and Rainie teamed up to stop little baby Harley from being taken away by his biological parents.

After making sure the tot was safe and sound with the Ahmed family, Max took his new wife to meet little Abi, his granddaughter who has spent the last few months in hospital.

The infant was born prematurely to Max's late daughter, Abi, in the aftermath of her fall off the Queen Vic at Christmas - which led to a question mark over who would be raising the little girl ever since.

As Max introduced an emotional Rainie to little Abi, he revealed he had a plan for them to raise her together.

He said:

"A promise is a promise, alright. "I know your great-grandmother Cora has got you today, but soon enough you're going to be with me. With us."

While the sweet moment may have shed some light on why Max returned, it remains to be seen if he'll actually get his wish.