Outlander preview ignites frenzy with fan-favourite romance - but not Claire and Jamie

Outlander enthusiasts are whirling with excitement over an enticing glimpse into a sizzling romantic plot in the upcoming second part of season seven - but it might not be the one you think.

The hit Starz series, Outlander, has captivated audiences with the expansive time-bridging tales of Claire (played by Caitriona Balfe) as she weaves through history, entwined in romance with Highland warrior Jamie Fraser (Sam Heughan).

Throughout seven spellbinding seasons, their clan has grown, leading eagerly to the follow-up of eight episodes set to air next week, extending the show's gripping narrative.

Among the most cherished figures in Outlander is Young Ian Murray (John Bell), endearingly thought of almost like a surrogate son to Claire and Jamie.

Fresh thrill ran through the series aficionados as he impulsively planted a kiss on the young Quaker Rachel (Izzy Meikle-Small), fuelling the flames of yearning among viewers for their heartfelt reconciliation after he returns to Scotland with the Frasers.

Excitement peaks with a fresh teaser trailer shared on the official Instagram of the series, hinting at the awaited reunion following a deep conversation between Ian and his father, Ian Murray (Steven Cree).

Adding intrigue, later in the clip Rachel appears caring for Young Ian's canine companion Rollo, who dashes to greet him upon his return to America, although it leaves viewers hanging on whether the youthful couple will reconvene.

The trailer's description stirs the pot: "Raise your hand if you're anxiously awaiting a safe, blissful Ian and Rachel reunion!"

Anticipation spills over in the comments, with one ardent Outlander fan sharing: "Chills watching this! Cannot wait!!"

"Screaming!!" another said. "Another week until the premier."

"Young Ian is in my top 3 and deserves a good love story," someone else wrote, and another agreed: "Love them. Young Ian is one of my fave characters."

A fifth fan remarked: "Young Ian and Rachel deserve their lovestory so much! Can't wait!"

However, other fans believe that a tragic twist might be on the cards for the beloved couple.

"Young Ian deserves love and happiest!!!(sic)" one person responded. "So glad for him....

"But at the same time, it feels like some kind of disappointment is lurking! Sure hope I'm wrong!!!!!"

Fans are on tenterhooks hoping that Young Ian and Rachel survive as Outlander weaves through its most dramatic chapters amidst the American Revolution.

With season six concluding after eight more thrilling episodes, there's only a final season anticipated to drop late next year, though enthusiasts will be appeased by the upcoming prequel Outlander: Blood of My Blood, set to premiere much earlier.

Outlander season seven part two premieres on Friday, November 22, on MGM+ via Prime Video in the UK and on Starz in the US.