names Hope Fowler?. However, Martin and Stacey's marriage is at risk of ending when Max sleeps with Stacey in Christmas Eve 2017. She admits the truth to Martin and they separate, before reuniting in May 2018 – on the day of their second wedding anniversary. Kathy comes face to face with James Wilmott-Brown again after 25 years and he her that he is dying. Kathy is unable to forgive him and forces him away from her. Ben and Ian both confront Wilmott-Brown for raping Kathy, which he continues to deny. In 2018, Ian comes face to face with his ex-wife Mel Owen again and attempts to woo her, although they fail. Ian decides to reopen the restaurant with Masood Ahmed but problems arise when he kisses Kathy. Ian and Masood maintain a working relationship and become frenemies. Michelle faces problems when she agrees to tutor Hunter Owen, however he lies that she has abused him. Mel and Michelle have a furious showdown and although the truth is revealed, Michelle decides to leave Walford. The Beale Empire Since 1939, the Beales own the market stall in Walford. Local miser Ian Beale, is the owner of Meal Machine before the business dissolves and the Arches garage for a while before Phil Mitchell buys it again. Ian owns several other businesses: the market stall, Bridge Street Café ("Kathy's", 1990–2011, 2016– "Mandy's", 2012, "Cindy's" 2012–2016), Fit For a Queen (part of Masala Queen, 2008–2011), Beale's Plaice (since 1995, briefly named Peter's Place in 1997) and Beale's Restaurant (2014–2017; previously Ian Beale@Le Square, 2013, and Scarlett's, 2013–2014). In 2012, Ian signs all his businesses and properties, including 45 Albert Square, to his daughter Lucy Beale, who is also a landlord of many flats in George Street. They are eventually returned to Ian. Ian also owns The Queen Victoria in 2009 as part of a loan contract, which he sells to Archie Mitchell. Chrissie Watts also sells it illegally to him in 2005. As she has forged her husband's signature, it is returned to the Watts. In 2020, Ian once again buys the Vic for Sharon Watts. David Wicks, Ian's half-brother, owns the car lot when he lives in Albert Square whilst Lucy Beale co-owned property letting agency LB Lettings alongside her best friend Lauren Branning until her death in 2014. Family members Unknown Dolly Beale (deceased) Kenneth Beale (deceased) Albert Beale (deceased), married to Lou