this, he tries to support Dom. The characters later establish a friendship, which Mead thought would be "interesting" to watch. Mead liked acting with Ames, commenting that it is fun "seeing how [their friendships] all unfolds." Ames also stated that he liked Lofty and Dom's relationship and commented, "Lofty has reminded [Dom] that people can be good and kind. It's really lovely to see." In August 2017, Holby City series producer Kate Hall confirmed that Lofty and Dom's story would develop into a "slow-burning love story". She explained that Lofty would display a level of "resilience and kindness" towards Dom which would become the centre of their relationship. On the story, Hall commented, "It's gorgeous, measured, not rushed and it's respectful of the fact that Dominic has been so badly damaged by Isaac". Ames explained that their relationship would a long-running plot as Lofty is shy and unsure, while Dom has a history of destructive relationships. Despite this, he hoped that the audience would warm to the relationship. The storyline begins when Sacha tells Dom about Lofty's sexuality causing Dom to question whether there is a connection between him and Lofty. When Lofty gifts Dom two show tickets, his suspicions are further aroused. Dom's mother, Carole Copeland (Julia Deakin), is admitted to the hospital and encourages Dom to speak to Lofty. In the staff-room, Dom kisses Lofty, but Lofty rejects him. Mead explained that Lofty rejects Dom because he is surprised by his actions. He added that Lofty did not realise that Dom has feelings for him. He also told a reporter from What's on TV that Lofty wants security in his relationship. Three weeks later, Lofty overhears Dom discussing a crush and presumes that Dom is referring to him. Lofty is embarrassed and becomes jealous when Dom squashes his theory. An Inside Soap reporter observed that Lofty is "struck down with a case of the green-eyed monster!" Lofty realises his feelings for Dom, but decides not to confront them. Mead opined that Lofty had created a complex situation for himself. The actor also suggested that there has not been a good moment for Lofty and Dom to start a relationship. Lofty is involved in a charity fun run in memory of Arthur Digby (Rob Ostlere). Lofty is envious of Dom's relationship with Freddie Chapel (Aaron Fontaine), who also runs the race. A car crashes into the runners during the