Monthly Archives: August 2020

Aug15

August 14, 2020 – Ava’s Portrait Unveiled, Ball Rolling Soon, Lotsa GH News, Clare’s Roses, Quit It, Lu’s Hopes, Whining Again, Still Sad, Not Now, Dark Return, Bad Endings, All About the Dead, Catch Up, Learn Something New, Almost 10 Quotes & Hooray

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What I Watched Today

(rambling, random thoughts & annoyingly detailed recaps from real time TV watching)

 

General Hospital

Ava calls to Nikolas, telling him, the guests are starting to arrive. She’s wearing a black sequined number and he says, quite the outfit. He’s only wearing a towel, and she says, him too, trying not to look. She tells him, you should probably get chest… dressed. He says, don’t worry, and she says they need to sizzle tonight. If he ruins the night for her, he’ll regret it for a looooong time.

Franco thinks about Elizabeth saying he’s about money like everyone else. He took Ava’s commission for it, and he’s playing into her hands. Scotty comes in and says, the man of the hour, and Franco thanks him for coming. Scotty says he wouldn’t take the ferry if not for Franco. He’s sure Franco would like to see some nice friendly faces for his big comeback. Franco says, Ava calls it a revival, and Scotty says, a lucrative reboot. Franco’s got to get work, make money, and pay the bills. Where’s his wife?

At the hospital, Terry sees Elizabeth, and says, just the person she needs. Enlighten her; rumors are flying. Elizabeth says, the rumors are true. Unfortunately, Cyrus is on the board. Terry asks why it’s unfortunate. Now they have enough money to run the hospital. Elizabeth says, money is all they care about. Cyrus is involved in the drug trade, and now he’s right in the heart of the hospital.

Lucy walks up to the door at Windymere with Maxie and Peter, but says she’s afraid she’s not up for a party. The Nurses Ball is tomorrow, and she has a million things to do. Maxie says she thought Lucy would want to  be there for Deception. They need to see and be seen, and talk up the company. Lucy says Maxie is more than capable of doing that by herself. Go schmooze. She’ll see Maxie later. Ta-ta! Maxie grabs her arm, and says she’s staying. They go inside, and Lucy says she’ll be right there, and pretends to look at the artwork in another room. Maxie tells Peter that she thinks Lucy is hiding something, and Peter thinks she’s right. Maxie hopes it’s not too terrible.

Lulu thanks Dustin for letting her drag him there, and he tells her to stop acting like he’s doing her a favor. Talent is talent, despite the subject matter.

Franco tells Scotty that Elizabeth isn’t coming. She’s upset that Ava is dredging up his past. It’s the ten year anniversary of Francophenia. Scotty says he can see why she’d be upset, but there’s no such thing as bad publicity. Franco says he tried to explain that, and Scotty says, but she’s not buying it? Franco says, not at all. Even worse, he thinks Elizabeth would prefer to pretend his past never happened at all.

Anna and Finn go over their wedding list at The Floating Rib. Anna says, Chase and Sasha? but Finn isn’t sure of their status. Anna says, just Chase then. He suggests she add Robin and Patrick, but she says they’re not finished with his family yet. He says, Violet? and she asks if he isn’t going to invite his father.

Peter goes to get drinks, and Lulu says, Maxie didn’t tell him she was pregnant? Maxie says, shhh. Nina comes in with Jax, and he says, it can’t be easy, being back. She says this big, drafty house is part of the gloomy past that she’s glad to forget. She’d rather focus on her bright, handsome future.

Ava says, shall we, darling? And tells Nikolas to smile. It’s going to be a night to remember. I think, so was the sinking of the Titanic.

Lucy tells Ava, some people would think it was tasteless to have a private function just before the biggest, brightest charity event of the year. Ava says, you’d think Lucy would be at home before the one night of the year when she’s actually socially relevant.

Nina tells Franco that she’s glad he’s painting again. She’ll make sure he and Ava are in their Out and About page. He thanks her for her support. Lulu tells Maxie, she hates to point out the obvious, but Peter is the dad, and the longer she keeps the secret, the worse it will be. Maxie says, it’s not a secret. She just hasn’t found the time to tell him. Lulu says, really? and Maxie amends that to, the right time. Lulu asks what time will be right, but Maxie says she doesn’t know. Like she said, she and Peter have never even discussed having a child; not once. She’s not sure how Peter feels about it. Lulu says she knows how to find out, and Maxie says, how? Lulu says, by telling him.

Terry tells Elizabeth that Lucy almost single-handedly organizes the Nurses Ball. You’d think she’d vote with the Quartermaines. Elizabeth says, apparently Valentin backed the relaunch of Deception, and Lucy couldn’t jeopardize it. Terry asks if there was no one except the Quartermaines who could help, and Elizabeth tells her, Nikolas stepped up, but it was too late. At least he was willing to do it. It’s too bad he won’t get rid of Ava. He’s going to be at her side when her portrait is unveiled. Ava made tonight about resurrecting the old Franco, who couldn’t tell the difference between good and evil, because he had a brain tumor. He became famous for the wrong reasons, and that’s not her husband. She’s not supporting or celebrating him.

Ava tells Franco, sorry. He deserves better, especially from his wife. Nikolas says Ava is all about being a supportive spouse, and she tells him, not now. Nikolas says, sorry. He’s out of sorts since Spencer said he wants nothing to do with him unless he has the Cassadine money. Franco says, it’s got to be rough, being rejected by a kid he lied to for three years. Ava says she’s sorry Spencer took a hard line with Nikolas, and Nikolas says, they both lost a child. As much as they’d love to be celebrating with Kiki and Spencer, it’s not meant to be. Ava says they’ve all made their choices, haven’t they? She says she needs some air, and leaves. Franco says, what the hell? Spencer thinks Nikolas is an ass, but Kiki is dead. There’s no comparison. Nikolas says, Ava barely bated an eyelash, but Franco says, she finds any mention of Kiki devastating. Anyone who cares about her knows that.  

Lulu and Maxie go outside, and Lulu asks if that’s the only reason Maxie hasn’t told Peter. Or is she on the fence about having a baby? Maxie says, the timing is all wrong. She thinks about how incredible it would be, having a child with Peter, but she’s not sure Peter feels the same way. Lulu asks if they don’t get along, and Maxie says, growing up with Faison caused Peter to doubt himself. What if he’s made the choice not to be a father? Well, I’m guessing Peter knows how babies are made, so wouldn’t he have thought about that before?

Finn says he hasn’t seen his father since he diagnosed him with Post Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome, and Anna asks if Finn isn’t happy about that. He says, he is, but they mostly communicate through Chase. She says, what about Violet? Doesn’t she deserve to have a relationship with her grandfather?

Nina asks how well Jax knows Lucy, and he says, not that well, but he’s known her forever. She asks if he has any idea why she voted for Valentin  to be in charge of ELQ. He says, of course (🍷) he does, and so does she. He bought into Lucy’s company to have leverage. He has no respect for Valentin, but admits it was a good business move. Elizabeth shows up, and Nikolas says he thought she wasn’t coming. She says she changed her mind, and needs to find Franco. He thinks Franco is out on the parapet, and says he’ll take her.

Franco finds Ava in the stables, and tells her that Nikolas is out of line, but she says he can’t get to her. He asks what she’s doing out there then, and she tells him, like she said, she just needed some air. Franco says, if she was looking for fresh air, it’s probably better in the stables, and she laughs. She sits, and wonders if she’ll ever be able to hear Kiki’s name without it breaking her heart. Franco says Nikolas was deliberately trying to wound her, and she says, maybe with cause. She thinks she’s gone too far.

Lulu says Maxie has to figure out what to do. Peter is a father, and needs to know. Nikolas and Elizabeth come out, looking for Franco, and Maxie grabs Lulu, saying they’re going to start their own search party. Nikolas tells Elizabeth, sorry. He thought Franco was there, but since they are, they might as well enjoy the view. He can have a nice moment where he can pretend his life is fantastic. She says, Spencer will come around, and he says he hopes so. He tells him that he did the right thing, offering to help the hospital financially. He says, if only Cyrus hadn’t gotten there first. He can’t believe the hospital is taking money from him. She says, it gets better. Cyrus is the new chairman.

Dustin shows Peter a little toy car that Rocco gave him as a present. He wanted to come, but Dustin asked if he really wanted to listen to grown-up conversation while looking at a painting, and Rocco decided video games and pizza were better. Peter says, kids never stop surprising you. James and Georgie keep him on his toes. Dustin asks if Peter didn’t ever want kids, and Peter says he’d never thought about it until Maxie came into his life. Maxie and Lulu come out, and he says, there she is; the love of his life.

Scotty tells Lucy, with all the problems Monica has caused, maybe the family can finally earn some money now. Lucy says, the most important thing is that GH was saved, no matter where the money came from. He says, that’s crazy talk. They don’t want a new benefactor coming in, and changing the policies and the staff. They could change what makes the hospital special. Lucy says, no more hospital talk, and suggests they focus on Deception. It was no walk in the park, reviving a company from the 90s, but she did it. She had help, but it was her vision and inspiration that made it happen. Finances don’t fall from the sky. Entrepreneurs make compromises sometimes. He says, Lucy… What have you done?

Nikolas tells Elizabeth, sorry he was too late, but she says, at least he was willing to provide the funding. That’s the Nikolas she remembers. He says he’s trying to get back to who he was. She tells him, hurry up; she misses him. He says he misses her too. He hates the distance between them. She says she needs to find Franco. There are some things between them she needs to clear up.

Lucy tells Scotty, Valentin was adamant about ELQ not bailing out the hospital, and she voted with him. Scotty says, what? She repeats that she voted with Valentin. She knew there was someone else who was going to help. He says, that Cyrus guy. He’s a threat to the community. Lucy tells him, the Commissioner said he’d been framed, wrongly jailed, and was focused on doing good for the community. So she voted with Valentin. Scotty says, she owed him, and knew the day would come when he’d need her tie-breaking vote. She says, it’s not her fault he got controlling interest. It’s on the shoulders of the family members who sold him their shares. The hospital will be fine. ELQ couldn’t do it, so Cyrus did. He says, you can’t trust him; especially since he’s a guy with a ponytail, for cryin’ out loud. She says she doesn’t know anything about that, and Maxie asks for a word with her. Scotty leaves, and Lucy says she knew this would happen, and one day she’d be the town pariah again. Maxie asks if that’s why she didn’t want to come, and Lucy wonders why no one can understand why she did it. She had no choice. She knew if she didn’t, Valentin would pull his money out. There would be no Deception, no launch; they’d have nothing. Jax asks if Lucy minds if he talks to her for a second. She says, that depends. Is he going to harp on her betraying the Quartermaines too?

Anna says she knows for a fact Chase told Finn’s father about Violet. He asks if his father has made any effort to get to know Violet, and Anna says he’s respecting Finn’s boundaries, and waiting for an invitation. Finn says he’s uncomfortable with his father and his father’s wife, and thinks Violet will pick up on it. Say he does let his father in, they don’t get past it, and it gets more uncomfortable. It’s the last thing Violet needs; someone being there, and suddenly gone. Anna thinks there’s another obstacle, and it’s not just because his father remarried.

Ava tells Franco that she’s ashamed to admit it, but she turned Spencer against his father. He says, if there’s anyone to blame, it’s Nikolas, but she says Spencer sees her as a traitor, and gave Nikolas an ultimatum. He’ll be in Nikolas’s life if she’s out. He says, then why not walk away? and she says, money. According to their post-nup, if Nikolas divorces her, she gets 90% of everything. Franco asks if she’s serious, and she says, the remaining 10% would be put in a trust for Spencer, but the kid wants to inherit the entire estate. So if she stays married to Nikolas, Spencer stays on the other side of the world. Franco says, it’s not her responsibility. The person to blame is Nikolas. Ava says she contributed to the problem and can solve it. If she ends the marriage, and doesn’t take the money, Spencer will take his father back. He asks if she can do it, and she says, just imagine if Kiki was still out there. If there was a possibility of Ava seeing her face again, it would be worth anything. What if she could do that? Give Spencer and Nikolas the healing and closure she and Kiki never had. Elizabeth listens in.

Elizabeth says hi to Ava, who says they weren’t expecting her. Elizabeth says, surprise, surprise, and Ava says, it’s good to see her. She has to get back to her guests, but she’s glad Elizabeth made it. She goes inside, and Franco thanks Elizabeth for changing her mind. She says she came to stand by her man and see his masterpiece unveiled. He says she’s made him happy. She’s made his whole night.

Anna says Finn’s father has been married for a decade. She understands, but thinks Finn’s estrangement from his father is going to affect Violet. Finn disagrees. He thinks Violet should know her grandfather, but he lives in California. It’s not like he has a presence in her life. Anna says she lives the same distance from Robin, but they stay in touch. Kids live half their lives on a screen, and it’s made long distance relationships easier. Although she does wish she lived closer. There’s nothing she loves more than giving her grandchildren a hug.

Maxie stumbles, and Peter asks if she’s okay. She says she just slipped on her heel.

Lucy thanks Jax for being a gentleman, and not berating her. He says he’s a businessman, and understands the deal she made, but Cyrus is another story. She says, that’s not her fault, and he says, that may be true, but she defended him earlier. She needs to understand, Jax’s daughter was almost caught in the crossfire when Cyrus went after Sonny’s family. She could have been killed; Laura too. She says, that was Cyrus? and he says, there’s no official proof, but Sonny is convinced, and on this subject, he trusts Sonny. Lucy tells him, but Jordan said… and he says he doesn’t pretend to understand why Jordan did that, but technically, it’s true. Cyrus was wrongfully imprisoned, but he’s still a dangerous criminal. If he were her, he’d be careful.

Ava sees Nina on the parapet, and asks if Nina was looking for her. Nina says she wondered where Ava disappeared to, but came out for a breath of fresh air. She loved coming out there when she lived at Windymere. Ava asks if she misses it, and Nina says, parts of it. She misses family time with Charlotte, but she’s accepted the fact that a relationship based on lies and secrets can’t last. Ava says she’s starting to think a relationship based on extortion can’t last. They laugh, and Ava says, trapping Nikolas into a loveless marriage seemed like a good idea at the time, but now she sees it’s not only hurting Nikolas, but Spencer too.

Lulu tells Nikolas, she wanted to check in with him about Spencer. Nikolas hopes their relationship is improving, and Lulu asks, how? He says Spencer told him that he wanted to be his son again if he divorced Ava. She says, clearly, that’s not happening, and he says he’d rather not go into detail. She asks, why? He’s her brother, and she knows he loves his son. It makes zero sense, accepting what’s going on. He says he’s not accepting it, and she asks if keeping one secret is more important than their relationship. Is it more important than regaining her trust? He says, no; it isn’t.

Maxie says she takes full responsibility for dragging Lucy there, but she neglected to inform Maxie that she totally sold out the Quartermaines. Lucy says she did it to save Deception, their bread and butter. Maxie says, no judgement, but Lucy needs to leave. She’s not the best brand ambassador right now. Lucy says, sorry, and Maxie says, this too shall pass. Go rest, so she can be her dazzling self at the Nurses Ball. Lucy suggests Maxie also call it an early night; she’s looking peaked. They need to knock them dead, and be on point tomorrow. Scotty says he got a new convertible; let’s go. Lucy leaves with Scotty, and Peter says, Lucy is right. Maxie looks pale. Is she sure she’s okay? Maxie says she just wants to schmooze the artist, and get it over with. She asks Franco, how long until the great unveiling? How much did Ava pay him to glorify her, and make himself relevant again? Franco says, hostile, and she says she remembers him, but he proved he’s a changed man. He convinced a judge he was a changed man, and now he’s free to be living his best life. Instead, he’s reliving his bad boy genius. The whole thing makes her nauseous. Elizabeth says Maxie has a point. He says the only important thing is, he’s the guy who gets to be married to her, but she wonders where that guy is. The only important things seem to be about everything except the man she loves.

Lulu says Nikolas recruited Spencer to be involved in his power struggle with Ava, but Nikolas says, Spencer jumped at the chance. She says he’s not understanding. He needs to have faith in Spencer that he’ll choose his father over money, not recruit him to be his accomplice. Nikolas says, Spencer is fighting for his inheritance, but Lulu says he’s bonding with Spencer by making his son his partner in crime.

Ava tells Nina, she never had the opportunity to see Spencer and Nikolas together, but she did see how Spencer mourned his father. They had a special bond, and seeing how upset Spencer was when he found out Nikolas was alive spoke volumes. She sees how Nikolas is taking their estrangement. Nina says, it’s one thing to help them reconcile, but the question is, can Ava give up her revenge? Ava doesn’t know. Nikolas made her think she was crazy, and that she saw his ghost. He used Kiki against her, and said they were in hell together. Although she wasn’t much better. The only thing stopping a reconciliation is the stupid post-nup she forced Nikolas to sign. Nina says, revenge is not all it’s cracked up to be. At least for her it wasn’t. Even if you hurt the person, it just ties you more closely to them. She exposed Valentin’s lies at the altar, and got zero satisfaction. It was only when she turned away from the bitterness and ugliness that she found peace. Ava knows what she has to do.

Franco says he thought Elizabeth was there to support him. She says she was, but she’s not comfortable with any of it. She can’t stay. He says he’ll try not to be late, then wonders if she wants him to come with her.

Maxie tells Peter, Franco and Ava are in there all smug and satisfied. She couldn’t help herself. Franco was dishonest. Elizabeth married him and brought him in as a stepfather, but he’s loving his first chance in the spotlight. Franco isn’t like Peter. Peter put in hard work to turn his life around. He says he hopes he never disappoints her, and she says he won’t, as long as he’s honest. She thinks her water smells weird, and he asks, what’s going on with her? She says this is working her last nerve, and he says she’s been dizzy and lightheaded recently. He’s seen her navigate a playground in stilettos. Is she okay?

Jax asks if Nina found Ava. She says she did, and dared to give Ava advice. He says, giving advice can be tricky, but she says she was willing to risk it. It was because of him. He’s proof she can make smart life decisions. Ava comes out wondering where her husband disappeared to.

Lulu says, so Nikolas and Spencer are working together, and he says he has his son back. She asks if she should be happy about him dragging Spencer into the game he’s playing with Ava. He asks, what’s the alternative? Let Ava walk away with 90%? It’s unacceptable to Spencer and him. She asks if it ever occurred to him that Spencer just wants to please him. Spencer isn’t going along for the money, but for his father. Nikolas is missing his moment to turn this around, and stop manipulating. Choose his son, and let Ava decide if she’s going to keep the money. He says he can’t take that risk. Ava has to give up before the marriage ends. She says, he’s pulling Spencer into a lie, and he says, Ava forced his hand. He has to get back out by manipulating the situation. Lulu says, wow. He’s as set on revenge as much as he was when he first came back, and refuses to see what it’s costing.

Anna says she and Finn have been telling Violet that the wedding is about family. Having his father there will show her that he’s part of the family. Finn says maybe he would like them to get to know each other, but that’s not the only problem. He’ll leave it at that. She says, she’s not leaving it at that; it’s about his stepmother. He says he can’t imagine her at their wedding. It will take away from the day – for him anyway. If he invites his father, he can’t exclude her. It’s too complicated. She says she hates to break it to him, but families are complicated. His father is still family, so can’t he put their differences aside for one day? For Violet’s sake?

Dustin says Lulu looks pissed, and she says, once again, her brother has gone below her worst expectations. Ava tells Nikolas, it’s showtime. Franco tells Elizabeth that Ava can take over after the unveiling, but she says she has to leave. Is he coming or not?

Ava tells her guests, on behalf of herself and Nikolas, she thanks them for coming to this celebration of revival and redemption. She teased the return of a talented artist for some time, and would like him to come join her next to her portrait. Franco looks at Elizabeth, but she doesn’t look at him. He goes up front, and Ava says she was going to make a speech, but she realized what she had planned doesn’t seem important anymore. So she’s just going to say she was so happy when Franco agreed to paint her portrait. She’s proud to share it with them tonight. So without further ado… Franco unveils the portrait, and everyone looks shocked. Elizabeth shakes her head, and Franco and Ava look at each other.

Is she naked maybe?

On Monday, Maxie says she has something to tell Peter, Elizabeth tells Nikolas that Ava will destroy what good is left in him if he’s not careful, and Ava says she plans to remedy the situation perfectly.

💝 Coming Soon To a TV Near You…

Welcome to the Nurses Ball.

https://www.tvinsider.com/945286/general-hospital-nurses-ball-2020-preview/

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/2020-general-hospital-nurses-ball-will-air-august

🕵🏽 Dante Tells All…

Get the skinny on Lulu’s absent ex.

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/dominic-zamprogna-reveals-why-he-left-and-returned

🔌 Can’t Say I Blame Her…

Some people give Trolls a bad name.

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/the-young-the-restless/michelle-stafford-is-taking-a-break-from-social-media

👯 Will the Real Sam Please Stand Up…?

Hopefully, Brook isn’t far behind.

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/kelly-monaco-is-back-at-general-hospital

⚖️ From Cop To Corporate…

The original Jordan finds success as a lawyer.

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/vanessa-antoines-series-diggstown-renewed

🌹 If You Must…

Every time I hear Clare Crawley, I think they’re talking about Downton Abbey. I’m not a huge fan of The Bachelor franchise, only because I can smell the desperation, and become embarrassed for the contestants, but no judgement.

MEN: Can she steal you for a sec? According to Glamour, Bachelorette Clare Crawley “will have extra men on hand, just in case” anyone gets coronavirus during taping. Meanwhile, we will have extra men on hand, just in case we can’t reach the Tate’s cookies we forgot were on the top shelf of the pantry… – Newsette

https://www.glamour.com/story/the-bachelorette-2020-everything-we-know-about-clare-crawleys-season

😭 Leave Denise Alone…

Denise and Garcelle should have their own spin-off. With a little Sutton on the side.

https://www.inquisitr.com/6186250/garcelle-beauvais-denise-richards-rhobh-reunion/?platform=hootsuite

🎤 The Countess Has All the Feels…

LuAnn’s hopes and dreams for the reunion.

https://hollywoodlife.com/2020/07/31/luann-de-lesseps-rhony-reunion-secrets-bethenny-frankel-interview/

🧀 Like Some Cheese With That Whine…?

NeNe comes up with a new reason she should be rewarded for bad behavior.

https://pagesix.com/2020/08/01/nene-leakes-alludes-to-mistreatment-from-bravo-amid-contract-negotiations/

👨🏽‍🍳 Poor Kiko…

He’s so sweet, but those nachos…

https://www.inquisitr.com/6197289/below-deck-mediterranean-chef-kiko-apologizes/

🐣 Not Yet…

For now, the unfreezing of Scheana’s eggs is on hold.

https://www.inquisitr.com/6199574/scheana-shay-pregnant-plans-miscarriage/?platform=hootsuite

🔮 Back In the Dark…

I loved this show. Except for that monkey. I hated the monkey.

https://comicbook.com/tv-shows/news/his-dark-materials-season-2-trailer-spoilers-hbo-comic-con-2020/

📺 Up For Debate…

Is it Lost? Game of Thrones? Dexter? A new time waster brought to you by social media.

https://comicbook.com/tv-shows/news/twitter-reacts-worst-ending-ever-television-debate/

⚰️ Spoiling the Dead…

Teases about the season 10 finale.

https://comicbook.com/tv-shows/news/the-walking-dead-season-10-finale-spoilers-father-gabriel-doomed-dies-seth-gilliam/

🚶🏼‍♂️ Keep Walking…

All you need to know about season 11.

https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/walking-dead-season-11-delayed-2021-1304283

https://comicbook.com/tv-shows/news/the-walking-dead-season-11-maggie-negan-relationship-showrunner-angela-kang-comic-con-2020/

https://comicbook.com/tv-shows/news/the-walking-dead-season-11-negan-hershel-maggie-glenn-son-jeffrey-dean-morgan/

🧛🏻 Get Your Full Episodes Here…

On Sunday night, it seems to be either feast or famine. If you’ve missed any of season 2 of NOS4A2, you can catch it here.

https://www.bbcamerica.com/shows/nos4a2/video-extras/nos4a2-season-2-comic-con-teaser

🦖 Just In Case…

You never know when you might need a prehistoric life skill.

https://www.wired.com/story/how-outrun-dinosaur/?utm_source=digg&utm_medium=email

Quote-Kindness

🦪 Quotes of the Week

We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars. – Oscar Wilde

It’s no use going back to yesterday, because I was a different person then. – Lewis Carroll

What you’re thinking is what you’re becoming. – Muhammad Ali

Life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we react to it. – Dennis P. Kimbro

A lie can travel half way around the world while the truth is putting on its shoes. – Mark Twain

If you can’t laugh at yourself, at least let me do it. – Charlie (Charlie Sheen), Two and a Half Men

People will always have opinions about your decision because they’re not courageous enough to take action on their opinion. – Steve Maraboli

Love does not consist in gazing at each other, but in looking outward together in the same direction. – Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

I’d rather regret the things I’ve done than regret the things I haven’t done. – Lucille Ball

🌃 Hey, It’s Still Dark Out…

Long story short, the new site editor causes difficulty for some links. So until I have a minute to figure out a way around it, I switched back to the classic version, an upscale word for the way it was done before. Thank God it’s Friday. We still call it that, right? Keep that weekend sacred, and change your environment for a moment. But while you’re doing that, stay safe, stay authentic, and stay like Bill Murray in Meatballs, telling yourself, it just doesn’t matter.

Aug14

August 13, 2020 – Cyrus Gives Lulu Some News, a Blessing Cures a Hangover, Sonja Spills It, Idol Guess, NYC Snark, Not So Remote, a New Jersey Feature, No Longer Charmed, Music’s Power & Sleeping

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What I Watched Today

(rambling, random thoughts & annoyingly detailed recaps from real time TV watching)

 

General Hospital

Carly sees Jason sitting up and using his tablet, and tells him Epiphany is going to be upset if she sees him. He says, Epiphany isn’t on duty; he already checked. He asks if she’s okay, and she hands him a gift bag, telling him, take it.

Sam asks how Sonny’s dad is, and he says they’re setting up his room at Turning Woods today. Why did she want to see him? She says she wants to talk about Brando.

Ava asks Nikolas if he forget they’re entertaining tonight, and he says she’s entertaining. He couldn’t care less. She suggests he adjust his attitude. Their guests will be arriving soon. He needs to get ready. He says he’s as ready as he’s going to be, and she says he’ll be significantly underdressed. He says, oh well, and she says, it’s an important night for them. He says it’s an important night for her ego. She forced him to marry her; now she wants to trot him out like a circus pony. The doorbell rings, and Ava answers. Lulu asks if Nikolas is at home. Nikolas asks what brings her there. He doesn’t imagine she wants a preview of the portrait. She says she’s there to ask a huge favor.

Franco goes to the hospital, and asks Elizabeth how Jason is. She says, he’s awake, and expected to make a full recovery. He says he’ll tell Jake; he’s going to be thrilled. He says, since Jason is out of the woods now, she’s free to come to the unveiling.

On the phone with Tracy, Ned says, Valentin is now the CEO. The vote was 50/50, plus Lucy, who was the tie breaker… Who sold? The list is long, but there’s only one name he cares about – Brook.

Michael and Willow tuck Wiley in for his nap, and Michael says, it’s official. Wiley is home. Willow says she understands how Wiley feels. He’s been a nomad, and been shuffled from one place to another. She understands the funny feeling when you have to adjust to a new place when you’re a kid. Michael says, not anymore. Wiley is there to stay, and the three of them will be staying together.

At The Floating Rib, Sasha says Chase can call someone, but Chase says he doesn’t want to put any of his contacts on the spot. She says, it’s not like it’s a violation of privacy, but he says, that depends on what the judge had sealed. Brook walks in, and asks if this is where the losers commiserate.

Carly tells Jason, it’s a helmet, like he doesn’t know what one looks like. She wants him to wear is when he’s riding. No excuses; no arguments. She wants him to promise, and he does. She says the last thing she needs is to think she’s going to lose him. She didn’t realize when she signed the power of attorney, she’d be signing a consent for exploratory surgery because he might be brain dead, and she’d just promised that she’d let him die. He says, he didn’t, and she tells him that she’s saying she’d better not need to. The deal only continues if he commits to wearing it.

Sam says, Jason is an expert on the bike, and Sonny asks if she talked to him. She says she couldn’t; she’d been distracted. He says they don’t know what happened. Jason could have swerved to avoid an animal. She says, the stabilizer failed because Brando sabotaged it. He’s a con.

Brook asks Chase and Sasha, who’s worse? A traitor to the family, or two cheating cheaters who cheated and got caught stepping out on the kindest people in the universe? Sasha steps away, and Chase says Brook can judge him all she wants. He’s earned her hostility, but Sasha hasn’t. She didn’t even press charges when Brook hit her. Brook says, it was an accident, and Chase says, that’s how Sasha treated it. She cut Brook some slack; maybe Brook could return the favor.

A girl comes up to Sasha, and says, the face of Deception. She saw the proofs. She introduces herself as Sienna, and says she works with the photographer. He said Sasha was amazing. Sasha says she was a little rocky at first, and Vienna says Suzette told her. Sasha says, told her what?

Ned tells Olivia that someone had been making a play for ELQ for months. He spent all that time trying to figure out who it was, and they were in front of him the whole time. Olivia says, the problem isn’t how Valentin took over. The problem is how Ned is treating his daughter.

Franco tells Elizabeth that he has the opportunity to show the art world he’s survived tonight. She says, tonight is also about exploiting his past. He says, it’s good business, but she says he worked hard to distance himself from it. Now he seems to be erasing that.

Lulu tells Nikolas about the lawsuit against the hospital, and says, if Nelle wins, the insurance might not cover the damage. Meanwhile, the board is being courted by Cyrus. Ava says, he killed Trina’s father, and Nikolas says, he’s a drug trafficker, but Lulu says, there’s no proof. Cyrus is legitimately a free man, and he’s offering his financial support in exchange for a spot on the board. Nikolas says, that’s unacceptable, and Lulu says, her mom reached out to ELQ, but there’s been a shake-up with the company. Nikolas says, tell her mom that he knows what’s at stake, but Lulu says Laura will feel it’s hypocritical, and won’t be comfortable asking him for money. So she’s asking for her mom. He says, whatever the hospital needs, he’ll cover it. She thanks him, and says that makes a big difference. She tells Ava, congratulations on her portrait. If all goes well, she and Dustin will be at the unveiling. Ava says they’ll be happy to have her; won’t we, darling? Nikolas agrees, and Lulu leaves. Ava says his sister has softened toward their marriage. If only he’d follow her lead.

Ned tells Olivia, Brook knew beforehand, and should have warned him. It would have given him a chance to block Valentin. Olivia says Valentin was obviously moving behind-the-scenes for months, and Ned says he would have reached out to Sam, and she would have realized her children were being robbed of their legacy. Olivia says, let Sam worry about her kids. He needs to worry about his own.

Brook asks Chase if it isn’t late in the game to be acting chivalrous. He asks what she said about a traitor in the family.

Sasha drags Sienna into the bathroom, and asks what Suzanne told her. Sienna says that Sasha needed a pick-me-up. A lot of models do. Sasha asks if Suzanne told her it was just one time, and Sienna says, sure. But just in case, it never hurts to have one. She gives Sasha a tiny resealable plastic bag of coke.

Carly tells Jason, no more stupid risks and taking chances with his life for an adrenaline rush. He says he doesn’t do that… much. She says he has to meet her halfway. No risks, and wear a helmet. He says, anything else? and she says he needs some color in his wardrobe. She was going to buy him some T-shirts… but she can table it. She needs someone she can count on. He asks, what happened? Is Mike okay? Did Nelle win custody of Wiley? She says, no. Michael and Willow won sole custody; Nelle wasn’t even grated visitation. He says, that’s great, and she says Michael and Willow are over the moon, but she just knows Nelle is going to retaliate.

Lulu sees one of the board members, and says, Mr. Erickson… He says, the board doesn’t talk to the press, but she says she’s not working on a story. Her brother Nikolas is willing to step in and be the hospital’s benefactor. He’ll supply any funding they need. Mr. Erickson says he appreciates her family’s commitment to the hospital, but the problem has been solved. He just came from a productive meeting, where they voted on a single benefactor, Cyrus Renault. Her mother had misgivings, but they were impressed, and voted to accept his offer.

Franco tells Elizabeth, he wishes he could take his past back, but his career just played a small part. She asks, why capitalize on what he regrets? and he says he used to be really good.

Ava tells Nikolas, if he chooses to divorce her, she promises to follow up and support the hospital. He says, sorry to disappoint her, but he’s not divorcing her. Unless and until she cheats on him. She says, so he made his decision. He chose money over his son. He says, Spencer made the decision. His son doesn’t want him without his money.

Carly says, after the judge made his ruling, Nelle asked to speak to her alone (didn’t she ask to speak to Nelle?), and Jason says that was like asking to be set up. Why do it? She says Nelle had it worse than she did growing up. Virginia drove her crazy, but also nurtured her. All Nelle had was Frank, who was a wreck emotionally. Jason tells her not to feel sorry for Nelle, but she says she doesn’t. Nelle is a heartless bitch, who tortured her family, but Nelle wasn’t born that way. She thought Nelle’s life could be different if she could make her understand that now Wiley’s life will be different. He tells her, stay out of it, and don’t forget Nelle is a threat to her family, and everyone she loves.

Sonny tells Sam, Brando has been stand-up. He did everything Sonny asked. Sam says, that’s how cons work, and Sonny says he’s going to ask Jason what happened, and take it from there. Lulu comes by, and says she heard about Jason. Sam says Jason is awake, and expected to fully recover. Lulu asks Sonny for a word, and tells him, Cyrus has been given a foothold at the hospital.

Nikolas tells Ava that he called Spencer, and Spencer finally picked up. It felt good to hear his voice. She asks, what happened? and he says he told Spencer about the post-nup, and how if they divorced, she’d get 90% of the estate, and the remaining 10% would be put in trust for him. Spencer didn’t even hesitate; he wants his legacy intact, and said they should stay married. He said it’s what Nikolas deserves. Ava says, teenagers can be terribly self-righteous, and Nikolas says Spencer can’t forgive her for lying, and wants nothing to do with her. As long as they remain a couple, Spencer will stay in boarding school, and out of his life. Ava says she’s sorry, and he says, if she means it, prove it.

Franco tells Elizabeth, the subject of his work was vile, but it got people engaged, and made them feel things. He’s worried his best work is behind him. She asks why he’s reminding everyone of who he was instead of the man he is now, and he says, no one cares about the man he is now. He’s an art therapist. He can’t afford a canvas; what is he going to do when it’s time to contribute to college tuition? She tells him, don’t use the boys or her as an excuse.

Michael knows he keeps saying it, but Willow is the real version of what Nelle is pretending to be. She says, she knows; sugar and saccharine. He says Nelle knows how bad she looks next to Willow, and once they were married, it sent her scrambling. Willow says when Nelle melted down in court, that’s how she was when she shoved her way into the apartment to take Wiley. A fanatic, like nothing and no one was going to stop her. Willow fought as hard as she could If Michael and Chase hadn’t… She says, there’s no point in dwelling on it. They should focus on happy things, like Wiley. He says, it’s okay if she misses Chase. He misses Sasha too.

Brook tells Chase, what did her father expect? Music is her life. Her mother played music for her in utero. Her father couldn’t or wouldn’t help her out, and she had to do it herself. Linc wanted her ELQ shares, but he was just a front. Valentin was really after them. The man who pulled Cassadine Industries from the brink of ruin. She thought, what harm could it do? It turns out, he did a lot of damage, but did her father blame anyone else who sold? No, only her. She got thrown out. Sasha sends a text.

Olivia tells Ned, he was too harsh, but he says Brook betrayed the family. She says, so what? Brook is his daughter. How many times has she heard him say, it’s all about family; family is the most important thing. This is where the rubber meets the road. It’s easy to love their children when their children please them and make them proud, but they’re still their children when they disappoint them, especially when they do. They’re not disposable. He thinks she’s sensitive because of Dante, and she says, damn right. She’d give anything to have her son back, and he threw his daughter away like yesterday’s garbage. He says, it seems unfeeling to outsiders, but Brook knows what it means to be a Quartermaine. You don’t sell your stock; you keep it in the family’s hands. Olivia’s phone dings. She sees a text from Sasha that says, w/ Brook Lyn at the Rib. She’s hurting. She heads out the door, and Ned asks where she’s going. They’re in the middle of a crisis. She asks what he’s going to do? Throw her out for violating Quartermaine bylaws?

Carly says, Nelle gave her one good thing; a grandson. Wiley is the best thing ever. She thinks Michael will do better with Wiley than she did with him, and Jason says, she did fine. She says she made mistakes, but she knows Michael is good. Now he married Willow. Nice people usually drive her crazy, but Willow is a genuinely kind and gracious person. She loves Wiley, and Carly thinks one day she’ll love Michael. She feels bad that Sasha gave up so much. Jason says he thought Sasha and Michael broke up because she’d cheated on him. Carly says, she did… never mind. Jason wonders what she’s not saying, and she says he looks tired. He needs his rest. He tells her to stay out of it, and she says she’s leaving – and staying out of it.

Brando arrives at the hospital, and Sam asks what he’s doing there. He says he was checking on Jason, and she says, Jason is awake and fine, despite Brando’s best efforts.

Sonny asks Lulu why the hospital board would take a dime of Cyrus’s drug money, and she says, after Jordan’s press conference, they put aside their misgivings. He says, what about the Quartermaines? and she says, they were blocked by an inconvenient raid. He says, by who? and she says, Valentin.

Ava tells Nikolas, she has nothing to prove. He says if they stay married, it will cost him his son, and she tells him, don’t put it on her. He dug a hole for himself by pretending to be dead, and playing mind games to get his hands on the codicil. She asks if it ever occurred to him, that if he’d been honest and come to her, she might have willingly helped him? He says, it never occurred to him once.

Franco tells Elizabeth, they need money like everyone else. That’s why he took Ava’s commission. She says, that’s why she’s not going to this Windymere farce. It’s feeding his ego, and he’s playing into Ava’s hands. He says, either that, or Ava is someone who believes in him. Elizabeth says she believes in the man she married. She’s going to keep believing, and hope he justifies her faith in him.

Brook says why should she care? Her father threw her out, and she doesn’t need him or ELQ, like Sasha doesn’t need Michael. Sasha has her fabulous career, and a partnership in Deception. Who cares? She’ll be famous. Olivia comes in, and says, okay, girlfriend. You and me. Brook says she’s no longer Olivia’s problem, and Olivia says, not another sip. Brook says, all right; don’t make a scene, and goes to a booth with Olivia. Chase tells Sasha that he’s sorry. Brook isn’t as obnoxious as she seems; she’s just drunk and hurting. Sasha says, she knows. She just needs a minute to freshen up. She goes to the bathroom, and Chase says, I still love you, Willow, to no one in particular.

Michael tells Willow, whatever happens, going forward, he wants them to be honest with each other, whatever they’re feeling. The mistake Chase and Sasha made was hiding things from them. Maybe they thought it was for their own good, at least at the beginning, but he doesn’t want that with them. Willow says, right. Start with the truth and the rest will follow. The truth is, as much as she misses Chase, she’s so happy she married Michael. He says so is he.

Sasha checks to make sure there’s nobody in the stalls, and takes out the bag of coke. Since evidently she’s too stupid to go where she won’t be seen. She does know it’s illegal, right?

Sonny visits Jason, who shows him the helmet. Jason says, it’s a present from Carly. He told her that he’d wear one from now on. Sonny asks, what happened? but Jason says he doesn’t know. The bike was riding fine, then the steering went out. The part was brand new, so either it was a bad part or there was a problem with the installation. Sonny says, Brando told him that he did it right, and checked the part; it wasn’t defective. Jason says, either Brando made a mistake or he’s lying, and Sonny says he’ll keep an eye on Brando. In the meantime, something else came up. Cyrus is now a member of the hospital board, and bailing them out of financial trouble. Sonny laughs, and Jason asks why the hospital didn’t go to the Quartermaines. Sonny says, that’s what he asked. There was a problem with ELQ involving Sam.

Brando says if Sam is implying that he tried to kill Jason, he didn’t. Why would he be there if he had? She says to see if he needed to finish the job. He says he must not be much of an assassin, since he worked on Jason’s bike, and he’s chatting with her. If she’s looking for an enemy, it isn’t him. Brando says, tell Jason he’s glad he made it, and leaves.

Olivia gives Brook a room key for the MetroCourt, saying, it has a beautiful harbor view. Brook asks if her dad knows Olivia is doing this, and Olivia says, no. Brook says, then she probably shouldn’t, but Olivia says she loves Brook’s father, but he doesn’t tell her what to do. It’s a very nice room in a very nice hotel. She strongly suggests Brook take it.

Sasha comes back out, and tells Chase, they’re not doing this. Sitting around feeling sorry for themselves. They’re heroes, even if no one knows. They’re like Sydney Carton. Chase says, Sydney got his head chopped off. She says, they didn’t. Carly comes in, and says she wants to thank them. Michael and Willow got full custody of Wiley.

Michael asks how Willow feels about powerboats. She says she hasn’t given it much thought; why? He says there’s one tied up at the boathouse. He’s a fantastic driver, and Wiley is knocked out. They could take it out, and cruise to Sawyer, where there’s a nice restaurant on the water. They can get dinner there. Ned joins them, and says he heard the judge ruled in their favor. Michael says Wiley is officially theirs, and asks how the shareholders meeting ended. Did Lucy vote to save the hospital?

Nikolas says Ava sold Spencer out to Valentin. Why shouldn’t he assume she’d do the same to him? He had no choice but to trick her. She says, by making her believe she was losing her mind? That Kiki was trapped in hell and blamed Ava for putting her there? He says she blamed herself. As much as she loved Kiki, she hated her. She was jealous of Kiki’s kindness, and set her up. Ava tells him not to judge her, and he says he’s a convenient scapegoat where she can place her guilt and anger. But she has a brand new portrait to hang on the wall. She tells him, go to hell. He says he’s already there.

Franco arrives at Windymere, and Ava asks if he came early to help her place the portrait. She’s sorry. She’s been dealing with so many details, it’s where he left it in the solarium. She hasn’t peeked. She wants to see it for the first time with everyone else. He hopes she’s not disappointed, and she says he seems to be. He says, Elizabeth isn’t coming, and she says, it’s their night, and they’re going to enjoy it.

On the phone, Nikolas tells Spencer, Ava believed every word. She thinks he turned his back on his father, and has no idea they’re working together. He’s going to keep playing on her guilt until she voluntarily ends the marriage, and walks away.

Cyrus tells Lulu, always a pleasure, and she says, not for her. He’s surprised she hasn’t asked him for a comment. He’s sure she heard. She says she did. Now he’s a member of the board. She promises once her mother finds out, she’ll do everything in her power to make sure it’s the briefest tenure ever. He says, that might prove difficult. Given his generous support of the hospital, he’s not just a member; he’s the chairman. He tells her to relay that to her mom. He looks forward to everything his hospital will bring to Port Charles. He walks away, leaving Lulu stunned.

Michael asks, what about Lucy? and Michael says, she voted with Valentin. There will be no hospital funding, and there’s no easy way to tell him, but Valentin is now the CEO. Willow says, Lucy married them, and wonders why she voted against Michael. Michael says Valentin was Lucy’s angel investor for Deception, and probably reached out to her. Ned says, more than likely, Valentin went to her when he needed a tie breaker. Lucy will land on her feet; she always does. Willow asks, what happens now? and Ned says he’s sorry. Michael trusted him, and he let Michael down. Michael says, it’s not Ned’s fault, but Ned says, yes it is. It happened on his watch. Willow asks if Michael is okay, and he says He’s not happy Valentin is in charge of ELQ, but for now, that’s just another problem that has to be solved. Losing his job is nothing compared to winning custody of Wiley. Willow says, that’s what matters. Michael says, it’s a day to celebrate. How does she feel about going out to dinner? Willow says she’s right with him.

Brook asks why Olivia is doing this. Most of the time, Olivia hates her. Olivia says she never hated Brook. Okay, maybe once for a little while, but Brook is family now, and she couldn’t hate a member of her family. Brook says her father hates her, but Olivia says, no. He’s disappointed. His pride and ego are crushed, and now Valentin got the best of him. He loves Brook, but doesn’t know how to show it. The Quartermaines will get through this. They stick together.

Carly says Sasha and Chase gave up their happiness for Wiley’s sake. She has some idea of what it cost them, but now Michael, Willow, and Wiley can be a real family. It’s the best thing for all three of them. She thanks them again.

Sam goes to Jason’s room, and Sonny says he was just filling Jason in. She says she doesn’t want to push, but the doctors said Jason needs rest. Jason says, he’s okay, but Sonny says she’s right. He’s going to go. Do what Sam tells him. He leaves, and Jason sighs, because we no longer have Griff to do that job. Sam sits next to the bed, and he takes her hand. She asks what they were talking about, and he says, just ELQ and the hospital. She asks, why the hospital? and he says they’re in financial trouble. ELQ was supposed to bail them out, but Valentin voted against it. He controls 51% of the stock. Sam asks, how? Danny and Scout only have 10%. He says, Valentin has been buying other family member’s shares, and with Danny and Scout’s proxy, he got put in control of ELQ.

Tomorrow, Maxie thinks Lucy is hiding something, Scotty asks Lucy what she’s done, Ava says it will be a night to remember, and Anna suggests Finn invite his father to the wedding.

The Real Housewives of New York City

It’s morning at Villa Casa del Mar. Dorinda sees two trainers out on the patio. She asks if it’s a hangover, or is it real. Is it tequila? One of them says, it’s not tequila. She says she’ll get the girls before it’s too hot, and she’s going to change. The trainers agree, there’s going to be a lot of energy. Dorinda proceeds to wake everyone up, opening blinds, and saying hot trainers are there. She knows everyone had quite a day, and she can’t get them out of bed. LuAnn says she can’t deal with lunges, and Dorinda says she’s got them all alone. She’s going to do what any good woman would do. They’ll teach her, and she’ll teach them aerobics. We flash back to her retro 80s aerobics whatever-that-was, and she puts the trainers through their paces. LuAnn comes out, and says she heard aerobics. The trainers do a cha-cha-cha step, and the women follow. LuAnn holds her coffee as she dances. Trainer Raul does side lunges. Dorinda goes inside, and in LuAnn’s interview, she says she’ll just take on the two trainers on her own. She’s fine with that. Dorinda says she’s not letting them sleep – wakey, wakey! The session done, Raul tells LuAnn to let her girlfriends know they were missing them. LuAnn gets more coffee.

LuAnn finds Dorinda in Leah’s room. Leah asks if they worked out already. LuAnn says they’re old school. They bounce back quick. The best way is to start moving. Dorinda says, she has sisterly love today, and a new bunch of flowers today. LuAnn says her mother described her hoo-ha as a flower.

Sonja chats with Isaac, co-owner of Century 21. She tells him about celebrating her birthday, and he asks how old is she? Twenty-four? In her interview, she says she has to be prepared for her event. She’s having a huge launch party, and it must be a success. Everyone has heard about her fashion, perfume, jewelry, and toaster oven. Everything she talked about on the show is coming to fruition. Sonja works on her laptop at an outside table, and Leah asks if this is the office, sitting down with her own laptop. Sonja says she has to send out invites to her Century 21 party. Leah says, no one gets how hard it is. Sales were low, but she just had some new things land, and they’re doing well. In Leah’s interview, she says, having your own business is truly 24/7. No one cares the way you do. Ramona says she’s celebrating a glorious day, and LuAnn suggests they sit outside. Sonja says she couldn’t be happier. Last night was special . LuAnn asks if she was surprised, and Sonja says she has to stop talking and send out invites. Dorinda joins them, and says, Sonja has to do her thing. In Sonja’s interview, she says, part of Dorinda is sweet and nice; the Dorinda she adores. Then there’s like… She makes a noise. LuAnn suggests taking a half hour break for breakfast. They all chatter, and Sonja says, it was a beautiful evening, but the whole night, she was worried about this; it has to go out. In her interview, Sonja says, Dorinda can vent all she needs; it’s her vacation too. Sonja gets up to go inside, saying she needs to work. She can’t let the invites go wrong; no way. She babbles at the kitchen staff, and wonders where she put her glasses.

LuAnn says, it’s rude to be working at the table. They’re having a meal together, and it’s not what they do. Leah is still working, and Dorinda tells her to sit elsewhere. Leah says she just closed everything, and Dorinda says if she wants to work, don’t sit at the table. Ramona quietly tells Leah, just let it pass. Tell her she’s right. In Leah’s interview, she says she understands where Dorinda is coming from, but it’s a vacation. They don’t need to be rigid and have breakfast at 7 am, no elbows on the table. LuAnn confirms, just say, you’re right. I think, wait a second. Leah and Sonja were working at the table before the others got there.

Dorinda says, the view is classically beautiful. Ramona tells Sonja, Dorinda snaps, and goes on for twenty minutes. In her interview, Ramona says she misses the light Dorinda. She doesn’t recognize this Dorinda. She doesn’t know her, and doesn’t want to know this one. Dorinda floats in the pool on a swan floatie. Sonja says when they used to burn witches, she thinks it was just menopause. It’s unclear whether she means because the so-called witches were going through menopause, or the people doing the burning were cranky because they were going through menopause.

LuAnn and Leah walk on the beach, and see two guys coming toward them. Leah says, they might be a couple, but LuAnn says, those aren’t gay men’s shorts. Leah says, good point. LuAnn asks where the guys are going, and they say, to the resort. It’s determined the guys aren’t gay or married, and are from Montreal. LuAnn asks if they want to come and hang out, and one asks, for a visit? LuAnn says, they’re not kidnapping them. In Leah’s interview, she says, men enter at their own risk. Inside the villa are very horny, insatiable women – Ramona and Sonja. LuAnn brings them over to the bar, and everyone has a drink. Leah says she’s brushed her teeth ten times, and still tastes tequila. Ramona comes out, and asks, is this a mirage? In Ramona’s interview, she says it’s not noon yet, and they picked up two boys. LuAnn asks where Sonja is, and Ramona explains that Sonja is having a big party; she designs a clothing line. One of them shows a tattoo he got in honor of his daughter, and the women are all, aww! LuAnn says, you never know when you’ll find a gem on the beach. They invite the guys to meet them at a bar later. Ramona toasts to being flexible. Not sure how she means that. As in schedule, or…

The women get ready for dinner. Dorinda says she’s not going; she has horrible diarrhea. She can’t even get off the toilet. Sonja suggests a diaper, and says she’s done it; she had to. I don’t want to know. In Dorinda’s interview, she says, since Cartagena, her intestines have never been the same, It’s ruined some great occasions for her. Leah asks, what’s going on? and I love how everyone is congregating in Dorinda’s room when she just got done saying she has horrible diarrhea. Dorinda says, it’s every ten minutes, and LuAnn says she can smell it. She’s getting the Chanel all-over body spray. She sprays the room, and Dorinda says, clear the runway, and dashes into the bathroom. In Ramona’s interview, she says she feels bad that Dorinda can’t join them. Then again, she’s been testy, and they can see how it is without her.

They go to the restaurant, and toast, to girlfriends. The guys, who finally introduce themselves as Phillip and Pascal, arrive, and LuAnn asks them to join the table. In Sonja’s interview, she says, of course Ramona is acting like she’s in heat. She’s always in heat. Sonja tells her, it’s company, not a tug-of-war. Sonja tells Phillip that she’s kissing him later. He asks what the relationship between them is, and Leah takes the floor. She says she has a love/hate relationship with Ramona. Ramona judges her more harshly than the others. She thinks it’s because Ramona loves her, but she’s confused. She thought Sonja was a bitch at first – we flash back to, 1985 is over! – but they had a breakthrough, and Sonja is the kindest, most loving soul ever. She points to LuAnn, and says, this bitch is a legend. They locked eyes, and have been friends forever. I think Phillip was just looking for something like, we’re all friends, or we’re at a family reunion. In her interview, Leah says, they like to act like nice society women, but they’re really regular chicks. A line of waiters comes out, some with bottles that have sparklers attached, some of them carrying sparklers sans bottles. It’s some kind of shot presentation that I’m sure involves tequila. Ramona and LuAnn dance, then Pascal, who we’ve found out is engaged, joins in. In LuAnn’s interview, she says, diarrhea shows up when you need it the most. Dorinda needed to chill, and they needed a good time. Pascal thinks Ramona is 44, and she says she’s 63. Leah makes out with Phillip, and Sonja says, she’s a lot younger, so she’s quick on the draw.

Ramona brings Dorinda coffee, and tells her that the restaurant was beautiful. Leah was getting feisty. She shows Dorinda a video of Leah and Phillip intertwined. In Dorinda’s interview, she says, the one who got away. Ramona didn’t get that one in her little clutches. Ramona says, Leah is like an untamed horse. She doesn’t always have the best decorum. Leah comes in, saying her ears were ringing. LuAnn follows, and Sonja asks if the guys stayed. LuAnn says she was exhausted. Dorinda asks if she’s ready for the blessing, and LuAnn say she needs a shaman today. Dorinda explains that afterwards, they’ll go in the water, and then have a beautiful lunch. Leah says she makes fun of the women being old, but she peed the bed. In her interview, she says they’re rubbing off on her, and not in a good way. Leah tells the women, she told Phillip that she hasn’t had sex in a while, and she wasn’t having it with him. He was a great kisser, but too bossy. Sonja suggests Leah have some electrolytes. Leah says she needs something.

Leah says she feels like hell, but if she wants to have any self-respect left, she needs to keep up with women twice her age. Sonja tells her, don’t do green juice; it makes you poop. Good to know. In Dorinda’s interview, she says she wants to get the women out every day. They’re like toddlers. Get them exhausted, and they stay out of trouble. She’s curious to see what they get out of this. LuAnn flips through some pictures she’s collected of various dudes, including someone she says won American Idol. They realize Ramona, LuAnn, and Tinsley all went out with him. (See below for speculation on who it is.) Dorinda says, it’s like duck-that-goose with men. LuAnn says he’s been in her shows. In Sonja’s interview, she says she can’t take any of her guys around this group.

Shaman Julian (not a name you’d associate with such an exotic profession) and guide Rebeca meet the women at… the shaman place. Okay, I wasn’t paying attention. It looks something like a nature preserve, and Julian says he’s going to ask the trees, animals, and birds to take care of them. In Dorinda’s interview, she says she’s a spiritual person, but now she’s scared. Every bird started to go crazy. He burns some sage, or whatever they burn, and it’s over pretty quickly. Leah says, hopefully, it helps hangovers. Rebeca tells them to get on their bathing suits, and they’re given lifejackets for propelling. Apparently, this is dropping down into a hole, where there’s water underneath. A guy named JJ puts harnesses on them, and goes down first. Sonja wonders why she should throw herself into that, and in her interview, says she skis on the bunny hill, and puts on a helmet. LuAnn goes next. Leah asks if she’s scared, but LuAnn says, no. It sure looks scary. She lands in the pool below, and Dorinda goes next, and goes fast. In Dorinda’s interview, she says the thing people don’t know about her is that she’s athletic. She’s quite agile – ask John. Leah starts to freak out, and Ramona is shocked at her reaction. She tells Leah that she looks hot, like this will fix it. Sonja and Ramona take a pass, and the others come out in a cave, and swim through to the outside. Leah tells JJ that it’s one of the best things she’s done in her life. It’s incredibly beautiful, with dolomites all over the place, and some bats; little, pretty ones. I would definitely do this if it didn’t involve dropping down that hole. Ramona and Sonja meet them at the end. In Ramona’s interview, she says she feels bouncy, buoyant, and happy. Even Dorinda liked it. Leah is amazed at how beautiful and magical it is, and swears it has healing powers. She’s feeling so much better. She says they’re her hangover shaman.

The women move on to lunch. Sonja says she sees herself in Mexico, living in a grass hut on the beach, gardening all day. Hmmm… somehow I don’t see that. Leah talks about saging her last boyfriend’s negative energy out of her vagina. In her interview, she says, better a crystal in her vajayjay than a stick up her ass. They sit down for lunch, and Hannah calls Dorinda, telling her something about being paid to help put together a catalog. In LuAnn’s interview, she thinks Dorinda is a hypocrite, since she yelled at Sonja and Leah about using their computers at breakfast. Sonja says Dorinda yelled at them when they did that, and Dorinda says, it’s her daughter. Dorinda goes on and on, as always, and Ramona asks, where’s this anger coming from? Dorinda makes a show of telling Hannah they don’t want her to talk to her daughter. Ramona says she hates when Dorinda does this, and LuAnn says Dorinda has done it to her; she’s blown up on all of them. In Leah’s interview, she agrees Dorinda’s temper is too much, but this isn’t the way to go about it. Dorinda says she needs to wish her daughter success, but can’t do it in front of them. She thanks Ramona for the advice, and Ramona says they just want to help her. Dorinda says there’s nothing they can help her with, as she jets away from the table. Ramona says Dorinda needs help about getting angry, and starts to cry, saying, it’s upsetting. Why is Dorinda doing this? LuAnn says, Dorinda turns it around. In Sonja’s interview, she says she can’t believe Ramona’s crocodile tears; they’re distracting from their cause, and giving Dorinda the perfect excuse to run off. Sonja tells Ramona, it’s not about that. Why does she have to be right? Dorinda comes back, and asks if they’re good; Ramona was getting hysterical. She sarcastically adds that she realizes it was traumatizing. In her interview, Ramona says, maybe she should give up. She’s seen Dorinda do it to Leah, and wonders why Leah didn’t jump in. Leah asks why Ramona is mad at her. She agrees with them, but she’s not mad at Dorinda. Ramona says she’s upset, and Leah says, the three of them were talking. Why should she join in? In her interview, she says Ramona has consistently said nasty things to her, while Dorinda’s had her back. Why would she turn on Dorinda? Sonja says, it’s going to be a long ride back together

Next time, LuAnn wants Ramona to be real, Sonja has her Century 21 lanch, and Sonja misses cabaret rehearsal

👩🏼‍💻 Quick news flash. Sonja was a guest on Watch What Happens Live tonight, and Andy asked if she believed the pirate when he said he and LuAnn hadn’t hooked up. Sonja said that’s not what the pirate told her. So mystery unsolved. She was also very astute when she talked about the reunion. She must be cleansing – i.e. staying away from alcohol.

🎤 And the Idol Is…

Speculation has it that Constantine Maroulis is the Idol who Tinsley, LuAnn, and Ramona dated. Although the only thing anyone is going by is the fact he dated Tinsley. Whether or not Constantine is the new Harry Dubin has yet to be confirmed.

https://meaww.com/rhony-real-housewives-of-new-york-city-ramona-tinsley-luann-dated-american-idol-constantine-maroulis

🥇 Better Than Mine…

I love Vulture’s snarky recaps. I wish I had the time to put this much thought into it. They make me literally LOL.

https://www.vulture.com/article/real-housewives-of-new-york-city-recap-season-12-episode-18-all-the-wrong-cenotes.html

🗽 Not Live, But In Person…

The Reunion probably makes them want to socially distance on a good day.

https://tvdeets.com/the-real-housewives-of-new-york-city-score-in-person-reunion-taping/

https://www.inquisitr.com/6193840/andy-cohen-rhony-reunion-not-outside/?platform=hootsuite

🍕 No Joe Though…

It’s doubtful we’ll see much of Juicy Joe unless it’s on video chat.

https://tvdeets.com/teresa-giudice-to-be-heavily-featured-on-rhonj-season-11/

🍹 There Goes Another One…

Are there any women left on Southern Charm? I’m sad to see most of them go. It’s always been one of my favorites, and it’s like the family broke apart.

https://pagesix.com/2020/08/12/eliza-limehouse-leaving-southern-charm-after-one-season/

🎧 Hey, Mike…

Sonny isn’t the only one who recognized music helps those with Alzheimer’s.

https://alz.org/blog/alz/august-2020/film-the-cuban%E2%80%9D-shows-the-power-of-music-for-peop

🚶🏽‍♀️ Sleep Walking…

And typing, and reading, and… As I always say, that’s okay, I’ll sleep in the next life. But in this life, stay safe, stay unruffled, and stay fixing your thoughts on what is true, right, and admirable.

Aug13

August 12, 2020 – The Verdict Is Read, Last Night In Rome, Garcelle Spills It, Sutton’s Complaint, Trek Laughs, Brandi’s the Worst, a Movement & Dawn

Posted on by
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What I Watched Today

(rambling, random thoughts & annoyingly detailed recaps from real time TV watching)

 

General Hospital

Ned asks if Lucy is voting with the family to save the hospital she loves so much. Lucy asks if she can have a moment in private with Valentin, but Ned says, no one is leaving until the matter is settled. If she has something to say, they all want to hear it.

Jason opens his eyes, and says, Sam.

Nina looks at the latest issue of Crimson, and a post-it note from Nelle that says, the issue is awesome, boss! Jax asks if it’s a bad time, but Nina says it’s just the normal chaos. He tells her she gave him that excuse last night, and he knows she can handle a deadline. Does she want tell him what’s really going on? She hands him the note, and says, a reminder of the brief moment she thought Nelle might be decent. Jax crumples it up, and says now she doesn’t have to think about it. She says she can’t get rid of her thoughts as easy as that note.

Outside the courtroom, Michael tells Willow, whatever the judge decides, they’re in this together, and they’ll make it okay for Wiley. Inside, Nelle looks at the passports for her and Wiley, then at the tracking device on her phone. Michael and Willow walk in, and they face each other. Nelle tells them, spending time together won’t fool the judge. He knows their marriage is a sham. Willow says, after Nina’s testimony, the judge knows Nelle blackmailed Julian into marrying her. Michael asks where Julian is, and Nelle says he’ll be there. Carly walks in, and says, good. Nelle won’t be alone when the judge makes his decision.

Sam says she’ll get the doctor, and Jason asks how long he’s been there. She says a day, but it feels like forever. He asks why he’s there, and she says he had an accident on his bike; he crashed. Jason says, his motorcycle… How? She suggests the doctor examine him first, then they can fill each other in. They don’t need to rush. They have all the time in the world now.

Lucy says she’d like to speak to Valentin alone, if they may, but Valentin says, no. If anybody has something they’d like to say to him, go ahead. He’s all about transparency. Olivia asks if he was about transparency when he was buying up the shares. He says he was so transparent, he was invisible. That’s really a good one, and I laugh. Ned tells Lucy, GH needs ELQ’s backing to stay solvent; she knows what’s at stake. Valentin says he agrees with Ned. She knows what’s at stake. She says she’s breaking the tie by voting with… Valentin Cassadine. Everyone is like, whaaat?

Sonny tells Mike, he told him that he can let go. He knows how much Sonny loves him. He doesn’t have to stick around if he doesn’t want to. Mike says he’s ready to go home, and Sonny asks what that means. Felix comes to the door, and Mike says, baseball… music… and friends. Sonny says, Brooklyn? and Felix says, sorry to interrupt, but since he’s been taking care of Mike, he senses how Mike communicates. He thinks Mike is saying he wants to go back to where he feels at home. Mike says, home.

Nina tells Jax, Nelle was on a tear. She accused Nina of betraying her and siding with Carly. She believed every single person had let her down, stabbed her in the back, and double-crossed her. Nina finally said, if every single person double-crossed her and stabbed her in the back, maybe they’re not the problem. Maybe the problem is Nelle. Jax says she was just being honest, but Nina says Nelle believes she double-crossed her because Nelle was counting on her to be a character witness. Nelle thought Nina would go in the courtroom and tell  the judge what a great mother she’d be, and how she deserved to get custody of Wiley. Instead, she went in and told the judge how Nelle blackmailed Julian into marriage. Jax says she did, but she didn’t make it up. She says, maybe she should have stayed out of it. Michael didn’t need her help, and she made Nelle feel more alone. He tells her, don’t take the blame. It was Nelle’s choice to manipulate Julian. Don’t let Nelle make her doubt herself.

Diane comes into the courtroom, and says she tried calling Nelle’s lawyer, but he’s not picking up. Nelle says, that’s because she fired him, and Diane asks if she’s proceeding without the benefit of counsel. Nelle says Martin wasn’t benefiting her, he was sabotaging her case. She wouldn’t be surprised to find out Carly was paying him off. That’s why she requested a closed hearing, so Carly can’t be there. Carly says, the hell she can’t, but Diane says, Nelle is correct. The judge agreed the only people who can be in the room are Michael, Nelle, their respective spouses, and counsel. Carly tells Diane to appeal, but Diane asks if she wants to risk annoying the judge, and snatch the verdict from the jaws of victory. Carly says all right, she’ll go. She tells Michael they’ve more than proved they’re the best parents for Wiley, and tells Nelle to enjoy her last act of spite. When this is over, Wiley will be safe with people who know and love him, and the only thing he’ll know about her is what they tell him.

The doctor says Jason’s overall prognosis is excellent, but he needs to rest. She’ll check in on him later. When she’s gone, Jason says, he had exploratory surgery for what? Sam says, the doctors thought he might have a traumatic brain injury. Carly gave her consent. He says, that must have been rough on Sam; sorry for scaring her. She asks if he can tell her what happened, and he says he just remembers picking his bike up from Brando’s garage, and driving off. She asks if he doesn’t remember the accident or where he was going. He says, when he crashed, he was looking out for Jordan. She was meeting Cyrus, and he was on his way just in case. He asks if Sam isn’t supposed to be there. She needs to go or she’ll get in trouble. She says, no; she doesn’t have to leave. She can be there as long as she likes.

Valentin says, it’s settled. GH won’t receive a bailout from ELQ. Ned says, ELQ is known for its philanthropy, and Valentin says, then the board can vote on causes as they come up. GH needs to get its own house in order. They can find another white knight. Olivia says, white knights don’t just gallop through Port Charles all the time. Lucy says one has shown his face – Cyrus Renault. Maybe he’ll do it. Ned says, he’s no white knight. Cyrus is a known drug trafficker. He’ll hook Port Charles on opiates, and keep the hospital busy with ODs. Lucy says she didn’t know. He gave her a large donation for the Nurses Ball, so maybe they should give him a chance. Ned says he’s glad Alan isn’t there to see what she did with the one share he shouldn’t have given her. Lucy says he doesn’t get to go there. It’s Monica’s fault. If she’d followed proper procedure, maybe none of this would have happened. Ned says, there’s plenty of blame to go around. Isn’t there, Brook? Lucy says she’s going to take her check and go, but Valentin says, there’s one more vote he wants them to take. Ned asks if he wants to vote on a caterer for the shareholders’ lunch, or maybe he wants to change the music. Valentin says, he wants to vote in a new CEO, and smiles. He’s been doing a lot of that lately.

Nina tells Jax that Nelle brought out a strong point about her not being able to find the child she can’t remember giving birth to. She feels like her child is out there. Jax tells her, trust her feelings. Don’t listen to Nelle. She doesn’t know the first thing about being a mother, and doesn’t love Wiley. Everything is just a means to an end. What she wanted was to hurt Carly, and everything else was collateral damage. Nina says, he’s right. She doesn’t know why she let Nelle get to her so easy. He says her mom taught her not to trust herself. He has the feeling that’s why her mother left a clue for her to find the baby she gave away. Nina says, or left it so she could torture her. Jax says she can believe that and get on with her life, or search for the other half of the necklace that might lead to her missing child. She says she already did that, and the jeweler told her there was no lead. He says, just because one jeweler couldn’t help her, doesn’t mean another can’t. She says, it’s the only expert she knew at the time, and doesn’t have… unless he does. He says he has purchased precious gems on one or two occasions. She says, or three, or four, or five. He tells her, don’t get carried away. He makes a call to an Evelyn, and says he knows it’s short notice, but he needs her expertise… for a special friend.

Michael says, Carly must be climbing the walls, and Willow says, she’ll keep Carly company. If the judge asks, tell him the truth. She didn’t want Wiley’s grandma to be alone, since she was forced to leave. Julian arrives, and Diane says she’s surprised. He has a penchant for saving his own skin. Out of curiosity, how long does he predict he’ll stay married to Nelle? Nelle protests, and he tells her, give it up. She can thank Nina that the judge knows how she got him to the altar. Diane says Nelle petitioned the court to have a closed hearing. That means he can be there, but can sit in the gallery if he wants. Nelle says she’s making it up, and Diane laughs. Julian says, fine by him, and sits in the back.

Carly says Willow is kind and considerate, but this is wrong. She should get back inside, so the judge sees she’s at Michael’s side rather than stay there. Willow says she’s afraid she’ll lose it if he grants joint custody. She has to be the kind, calm alternative to Nelle. Carly is sure they’ll leave with a verdict in their favor.

Judge Lowe tells everyone to be seated, and reads the details of the case. He said he’s read the documents presented, and listened to their arguments. He asks where Nelle’s attorney is, and Nelle says she fired him. She’ll be representing herself, since she seems to think the case is still going on. He says, since he’s already made his decision, any request for continuance will be denied. Nelle remembers what Nina said, that maybe she’s the problem.

Sam tells Jason, just like that, Delores was gone for good. She’s been replaced with a new parole officer. He’s a kind man, and has no intention of keeping them apart.

Olivia asks what Valentin is thinking, and Ned says he’ll call the lawyers. This can’t be legal. Valentin says they work for him now, and he made that call already. He needs all of the passwords, and a list of all the employees. He grabs Lucy’s arm, and tells her, let’s go. He doesn’t want to overstay his welcome. Brook says she’s going to, but Ned says she’s staying right there, and looking him in the eye – if she can.

Sonny says Felix could be right. Mike’s old room is where he got married, played checkers with Josslyn and Dev, and heard Brook singing. He asks Mike if Turning Woods is home. Felix says he’d be happy to arrange it; it would be his pleasure. Mike is the best, and Sonny should cherish every minute they have left. I feel the burden lift from me, and Sonny tells Mike, guess what? He’ll be going to Turning Woods real soon. Sonny says they should watch baseball, but he checked, and there isn’t a day game scheduled. Mike says, until next season, and Sonny repeats, until next season.

Jax, Nina, and Evelyn sit at a table in the MetroCourt. Evelyn uses a jeweler’s loupe to look at Nina’s necklace. She says she can trace it back to its origin; she thinks she knows the craftsman. She’ll do her research, and get back to them. She’s gone before Nina can say anything, and Nina tells Jax, she’s a woman of few words. Jax says, but every word counts. Evelyn picked up on something. Chin up. It could be the break Nina has been hoping for.

Carly tells Willow, pace herself. Court rarely goes quickly. Willow says she’s better off not being in there. She has no idea how Michael stays calm.

The judge says, the court’s primary concern is the health, safety, and welfare of the child. To be clear, there are no angels in this courtroom. Both parents have served time in prison on serious charges, and have paid for their crimes, being released and on parole. He’s looked at the current situations. They both married quickly, saying they desired to provide a loving family for Wiley. Michael and Willow have made it clear to the court that they have a deep and abiding love for the child, even before it was realized that Wiley really was Michael’s child. At the same time, the birth mother also married. Her witness claimed there was devious and ill-intent. Although there was n no evidence provided to support it, he can’t help but feel Nelle showing up in her wedding dress was a stunt performed to upstage Michael and Willow’s marriage. He’s seen the records of Nelle’s selfish, cynical, maniacal behavior, and considering the way she conducts her life, the court believes she’d treat her child the same way. Sole custody is granted to Michael and Willow. Diane hugs Michael, and I wonder why Nelle looks shocked.

Carly says she’s thrilled, and Willow says, Michael did it. He says, we did it. Diane was amazing. Diane says it wasn’t too difficult to prove they’re perfect parents. She congratulates Carly on no outbursts in court; she’s improving. Nelle’s visitation with Wiley has also been terminated, effective immediately.

Nelle tells the judge, she’s Wiley’s mother; she gave birth to her son. They can’t pretend she doesn’t matter. Judge Lowe says, it’s because she matters that he’s denying visitation. She failed as a mother when she accused an innocent woman of pushing her down the stairs, and confessed to the murder of her fiancé. Nelle says she’s made mistakes, but she’s grown and moved on. The judge says if she’s learned from her mistakes, and puts Wiley above her own selfish interests, she can appeal. Her case will be revisited, and if she’s found fit, she’ll get limited visitation. Nelle sees everyone all happy in the hallway, and says, it’s not fair. They start to leave, and she stomps out, asking where they’re going. She’s not done yet.

Jason asks how Sam got rid of Delores. She says she reached out to someone who could deal with it. He asks, who? and she says, Valentin.

Ned asks what Brook was thinking, and she says she was thinking of getting out of her contract. The only way Linc would let her was for her to sell him her shares. By the time she figured out that he was a front, there was nothing she could do. He asks why she didn’t warn him. She knew how serious it was, and she chose to do nothing; to say nothing. Never mind the family – they’ll survive – but the hospital… She says she didn’t know they were going to vote about GH, and he says she doesn’t know anything. She just takes what she wants, regardless of the consequences. Olivia think he should take a step back, and Brook tells him, look in the mirror. He had a million chances to help her, but he wouldn’t or couldn’t. She had to help herself.

Nelle tells Michael, congratulations. The judge made his decision, so she had no choice but to accept it. Diane says she’s leaving it at that. She’s got other clients, and is sure they want to spread the good news. Nelle says she’s not finished. They may have won this round, but she’s still Wiley’s mother, and will always have a part in his life. Michael says, good; she’s taking the high road. Willow says she could have had her son, a loving little boy with a great smile and endless curiosity. A boy whose happy, and makes everyone around him happy. Instead, she chose to hurt Michael for an insane reason. She thought revenge would be more rewarding than loving her baby. Willow feels sorry for her. Michael and Willow leave, and Julian says he’s heading home. Nelle says, wait. They have things to discuss. He tells her, whatever you say, dearest. Carly says she’d like to talk to Nelle alone. Diane says, they’re consenting adults. As long as there’s no bloodshed. She leaves, and Carly says the judge made the right decision. Nelle doesn’t know how to parent. It’s not entirely her fault; she learned from Frank. She didn’t have one moment of genuine love, and he used her. She won’t do any good for Wiley, so she should be happy that her son will have a chance at a life she never did. A home where two people love him. Nelle says, it was never her intention to take Wiley away from Michael. A spot in her son’s life was all she wanted, and she’ll have it.

Jason asks Sam what Valentin wanted in exchange, and she tells him Danny and Scout’s ELQ proxy to vote their shares. He asks when it happened, and she says he made the offer before Jason’s accident, in exchange for solving her Delores problem. She didn’t take the offer, but when Delores showed up, Sam called him and took the deal. He asks why she trusted Valentin.

Lucy says, how dare Valentin make her choose between Deception and GH? He’s truly heartless. He says he’s a business man, and wants to focus on reinvesting and increasing profits. They’re not losing money on a hopeless hospital. She’d said Cyrus was willing to save them from their mismanagement. Lucy says, it’s also about the Quartermaines. She cares about them, despite their differences and checkered past. Now they resent her. He says he has no ax to grind with the family. They’ll come around when ELQ is stronger and more profitable. She says, whatever. He can go on and have a celebratory drink with himself. He says, first, she’s coming with him, and he drags her over to Nina and Jax’s table. He says he’s giving them the inside scoop, and Jax can give it to his people at Aurora Media. ELQ has a new CEO. Nina asks, what happened to Michael? and he says, Michael was busy learning a new skill set, and Ned wasn’t focused. Jax asks, who’s calling the shots? and Valentin says, him.

Ned says, when they needed Brook most, she chose Valentin over the family. Olivia says, that’s an exaggeration, and Brook says, at least Valentin believes in and encourages her talent. He’s going to boost her career. Ned asks if he’s renting a stadium, and Brook says when she tried to get Ned to buy out her contract, he told her to grow up; he was going to stop coming to her rescue. She’s all grown up, and came to her own rescue, like a good Quartermaine would. He tells her, get out. She’s no longer welcome in this house. She goes upstairs.

Sonny tells Mike that he has visitors. Mike says he’s tired; tell them to wait. Michael says he and Willow couldn’t wait. They wanted to share the good news. Michael won full custody of Wiley. He’s there now and forever. Sonny says, congratulations to all three of them, and Willow says, it was a group effort. Sonny says, what matters is Wiley will stay with the people who love him.

Carly says she might feel differently if Nelle had been a mother to Wiley. She can’t change Nelle’s past actions, but they can give Wiley what he needs in life – a family that doesn’t include her. Nelle asks how Carly would feel if someone took everything she wanted, but Carly says, only Michael didn’t take her child. She gave him away the night she passed him off as Willow’s baby. She did all this, and if she doesn’t like what’s going on, too damn bad.

Ned holds the door open, and Brook walks out. He says he’ll send the rest of her things when she gets a place. He slams the door in her face, and she walks away.

Sam tells Jason, she has everything in writing. The voting proxy reverts back to Danny and Scout when they’re 18. Jason says, that’s years from now. If Valentin gets a foothold in ELQ, mistakes can happen. Michael stepped away from the business, but Ned is doing okay without him. Valentin could be a lot of trouble. Sam doesn’t think he’d harm the company, and Jason says, it’s not about harm. He’s never cared about ELQ, but his great-grandfather built the company for the family, and wanted it to stay in the family. And the family doesn’t want Valentin near it.

Nina says, Valentin is the new CEO? How did that happen? Jax says he didn’t realize Valentin had a connection with the Quartermaines, and Valentin says there’s a lot he doesn’t know. When Nikolas took over Cassadine Industries, he had to find a new situation. He consolidated his resources, and made new friends. Jax says, Lucy is the tie breaker. What does Valentin have on her? Lucy says she hopes Jax continues to finance and support a very worthy cause, and he says she can always count on his support for the Nurses Ball. He’s sure the Quartermaines are thrilled with her loyalty. She leaves, and Valentin says Lucy can be very productive. When she’s not promoting the Nurses Ball or running Deception, she’s consolidating real estate. Nina says, congratulations. She hopes he’s finally found what he wanted. He says, not quite.

Michael asks if Mike remembers Wiley, and shows him pictures. He says Mike knew right away Wiley was his son, and the judge made it official. Wiley is staying with him and Willow. No one can take him from his home. Mike says, home, and Sonny smiles at him.

Julian tells Nelle, he’s played the part of the doting husband long enough. Now he wants to make up for lost time, face his mistakes, and get the marriage annulled. There’s nothing more he can do for her. She says, isn’t there? She’ll be in touch. Julian leaves, and she looks at her phone.

Carly joins everyone in Mike’s room, and Sonny says, it’s finally over. Wiley is staying with the family where he belongs. Michael shows Mike a picture of Mr. Hopsicle. Willow says, Mr. Hopsicle brings good luck, and Michael says, maybe she’s right. They were definitely lucky today.

Nelle says, the tracking device is still working. Hang on to that kangaroo. Mom’s coming.

Tomorrow, Olivia yells at Ned, Ava tells Nikolas to prove it, Carly tells Jax to meet her halfway, and Sonny hears about Cyrus’s involvement with the hospital.

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills

Kyle says she’s struggling. Teddi doesn’t believe Brandi said that (that she’d had sex with someone in the group). LisaR says she doesn’t think Brandi ever said that. Don’t even put that out there. Denise says Brandi said it the first time she met her. In Denise’s interview, she says she’s not naming names. She doesn’t know if it’s true, and doesn’t care. Teddi asks, when are these conversations happening if Denise doesn’t talk to Brandi? Denise says Brandi called her, and Teddi says, she answered; it’s friendly enough. Do these idiots ever hear themselves? In Dorit’s interview, she says, Teddi’s not fond of Denise. Maybe she believes the worst? Dorit asks what the issue is, and Teddi says, it doesn’t add up. Denise had Brandi come to her work set, and said negative things about them. Denise says Brandi was doing an interview; that’s a different situation. Dorit says, they weren’t getting plastered, and LisaR says, they still got together. Denise says, she and Brandi have a mutual agent. I hope not anymore. Teddi says, there was a friendship, and Dorit tells, Denise didn’t say there was no communication. Even if Brandi said those things first, they had dinner, and were on good terms. Brandi had a podcast, and came to Denise. Teddi says, if they can’t get the full story, then she shouldn’t go there. Denise says Brandi said this about them. In Garcelle’s interview, she thinks Denise should stand up for herself. Now’s the time to set the record straight. Garcelle doesn’t feel like this is going the right way. LisaR says, it feels dirty, like someone isn’t being honest. In her interview, LisaR says that it’s frustrating watching Denise dance around this, deny, and blame. She tells Denise, if she’s chosen to sit there, she needs to own it. Denise says, she has, but that’s not good enough. Now they know why she gets up and leaves. LisaR says if Denise doesn’t want to be there, then go. I call her a nasty effing bitch. Garcelle asks why they’re choosing to believe Brandi over Denise, who they have a relationship with. She doesn’t know Brandi, except for what she’s heard in the press, but why are they taking her side? Kyle says she’s not taking a side (I’m not sure what she calls it then), and in Garcelle’s interview, she says she doesn’t know why they’re making what Brandi says like the Bible. Kyle says, it’s not about believing one over the other. Only they know the truth. Garcelle wonders how they move forward, and Teddi says, she can move forward, but her guard is up. She’s proceeding with caution. In Teddi’s interview, she says when there’s a pattern, she’s not hoping it’s going to change. She’d love to be proven wrong, but that hasn’t happened. LisaR says the restaurant has to open up as a club, and they move to the couches.

Erika says Denise didn’t tell Brandi that she was an icy bitch? Denise swears on her mother’s grave that Brandi is lying. Brandi said that; she would never say that. In Denise’s interview, she says Brandi told her that she heard Erika had been cold to her, and Denise confirmed that she had. She didn’t lie, but she did agree with what Brandi brought up. Erika asks if Brandi said that Teddi is desperate to be in the group, and was tired of riding on her father’s coattails. Teddi asks why Denise didn’t say anything last night, and she says she did. We flash back to Denise telling them Brandi was the one who called Teddi pathetic, and she was desperate to get into the group because she was tired of living in her father’s shadow. In her interview, Denise tells us, she’s said worse things about Teddi. That’s why she’s confused. Denise says she’s been totally honest, and LisaR says, okay, in that way you know it’s not really okay. In Erika’s interview, she says she likes Denise. She thinks Denise is a good time. We flash back to some fun times, and she says, but if Denise is calling her a cold-hearted bitch when she’s being nice to her face, it leaves them in a strange place. Garcelle says, she and LisaR took a dance class, and she’d asked if LisaR thought her body image affected her daughter. LisaR is like, f***, and in Kyle’s interview, she says LisaR opened up the Pandora’s Box. She said she wanted honest. We see a clip of Garcelle asking if LisaR is worried her image hurts her daughter. Garcelle says she doesn’t have a daughter, so she can’t say, but thinks she wouldn’t dance nearly naked on Instagram. Dorit doesn’t understand, and Garcelle says LisaR doesn’t have to be dancing in in bathing suit or underwear. LisaR says she doesn’t think that’s what caused Amelia’s eating disorder, and Garcelle tells her, she’s not saying that, but wonders if Amelia sees it and feels bad. LisaR says people are going to judge them, and Garcelle says, she’s not judging LisaR, but the situation. LisaR says, of course she’s judging, because she doesn’t understand what Garcelle just said since she’s so focused on being right. Garcelle says she’s just being honest. Teddi says, you can’t nail it on one thing, and LisaR says she’s proud of her daughter for coming out and talking about it. Garcelle says, 100%. She’s proud as a mom of all of them. Denise dabs at her eyes. In Dorit’s interview, she says, another night in Rome, and there’s still no result. There’s tears, anger, and frustration, and a dark cloud is now over them. It’s not going away unless they have a real, honest conversation. How is that going to happen? She has no idea.

The next morning, Teddi calls Erika, and asks if she wants to go to the spa. Garcelle calls Sutton, and Sutton asks if Garcelle wants to join her for mass at St. Peter’s. Garcelle says, absolutely. LisaR – who I happily notice again looks like sh*t in the morning – calls Kyle, and says she heard Kyle had fun last night. She’s sorry she missed it. We flash back to Kyle and Dorit out drinking and being kooky. LisaR asks if Kyle is going out on a Vespa, or is she still drunk? Kyle says she loves nothing more than driving a Vespa in the rain, drunk. She’s going to have some coffee and attempt to be human. Erika and Teddi go to the spa, and Erika says, the pregnant lady feels better than she does. Dorinda asks why Kyle kept her up so late. In Kyle’s interview, she says she cares about Dorit being happy, and they’re in a good place. She tells Dorit, it feels like Vegas on a Sunday morning. I have no idea what that means.

In her interview, LisaR says she texted Denise, but didn’t hear back. She thinks Denise is mad at her, and it’s a friendship worth fighting for. In the car, Kyle tells Dorit that she was a hot mess last night. LisaR finds Denise in the lobby, and sits with her. She says, she’s sorry, and Denise says the energy LisaR is projecting comes off like attacking; like interrogating. It’s happened at several big dinners, and she comes off as a mean friend. She wonders why she was invited. LisaR says she loves Denise, and she’s her friend. Denise says, it doesn’t come off that way. If she saw LisaR crying and everyone coming after her, she would tell them to stop. It’s hurtful, and not okay. LisaR says Denise claimed Brandi said she’d had sex with someone at the table, and they don’t need tit for tat. Denise does that with her sometimes; don’t do it anymore. Denise says she defended LisaR at Kyle’s house when Kyle told her, f*** off and f*** you. We flash back to that, and Denise says, for the last 20 years, when people were coming at LisaR, she told them to stop. LisaR hasn’t been a friend to her. LisaR says she was trying to clear the air, and did it in a terrible way. Denise asks, is that a friend? She’s never experienced this with LisaR, and she’s known her a long time. She’s not mad; she’s hurt. LisaR says she doesn’t want to hurt Denise, and starts sobbing – making it about her. Nice move. LisaR says she’s just trying to make it so they can move on, and she doesn’t know what to do. Denise says, just be herself. She’s strong and does stand up for what’s right. That’s the LisaR she loves. LisaR wails that she should have warned Denise; sent a text, but she didn’t. She feels bad now, and knows Denise would have warned her. Denise says she would have. LisaR was mean and angry, and it’s not like her. She doesn’t know what’s going on. She’s sorry. Denise says, it’s not her; it’s the rest of them. She doesn’t know why they want her around and then try to destroy her family. For what? She hates to see LisaR like this, and suggests LisaR come to church. She loves her. They hug, and LisaR vows to be a better friend.

Dorit and Kyle go to where the Vespas are. Dorit doesn’t want to wear a helmet, but the guide says it’s the law. He tells Kyle, she’s the only one in a sidecar. He puts caps on them to go under the helmets, and in Dorit’s interview, she says, it’s the fashion capital of the world. Kyle takes a picture. In Kyle’s interview, she says, Dorit looks great in a hairnet. They laugh, and Dorit says she’ll see Kyle when she sees her. At the spa, Erika asks Teddi what she’s got going on when they get home. Teddi says they’re going right into Thanksgiving, and Erika says she’s going to Laguna, to Tom’s daughter’s house. She’s a chef. In her interview, Erika says she’s lucky Tom has nice kids. She’s their age. Sutton, Garcelle, LisaR, and Denise leave in a taxi. LisaR says, everything happens for a reason, and Denise says, at least they got to something. In Dorit’s interview, she says, finally. The part of the friendship with Kyle that she loves so much. It almost compensates for the sh*tty things she does. LisaR is glad they worked it out, and says she needs church more than anyone. Garcelle asks, why? and LisaR says she hasn’t been back to her true self for a while. In Sutton’s interview, she says, there’s a better side to LisaR? In their interviews, each woman talks about the religion they grew up in, and where they’re at now. LisaR says she went to different churches every time she changed best friends. Hmmm… I say out loud. Her church hopping, depending on who she was hanging out with, speaks to her character now.

They pass LisaR’s house. She says Harry lived there with Ursula Andress. She explains that Ursula and Harry met during Clash of the Titans, and had a child. Sutton says she loves that movie so much. I do too. LisaR says Ursula was the movie star you would imagine, and she lived there. She got pregnant the first time she and Harry hooked up, and it was her first pregnancy at age 44. Kyle and Dorit finish riding, and Kyle can’t get the hairnet off. The others go to St. Peter Square. In her interview, Sutton says, who knew the line would be around the block? She did. It’s a two-hour wait, but she’s not worrying about it, since it’s not her trip. If anyone had asked, she would have told them to get a ticket. It might have been nice if she’d volunteered that information. On Instagram, LisaR says it’s the closest they could get, and takes video of them in the Square.

Kyle and Dorit go to lunch, and Dorit says she’ll never get the hairnet visual out of her head. Where does Kyle think LisaR went? Kyle hopes she’s okay. LisaR runs in, and says she’s so sorry. She had a bit of a breakdown. She saw Denise in the lobby, and it was tough for her last night. LisaR insists she tries to fix things when it’s a group situation. She feels responsible for getting to the truth. They talked, and Denise was pretty upset with her; they’ve been friends a long time, and Denise said she’s not being a good friend. She had to take a look at that. In Kyle’s interview, she says she feels for Denise, but thinks LisaR is just trying to get to the truth. Of course she does. LisaR says she cried a lot, and Kyle asks if Denise cried. Who asks something like that? LisaR says, she did. She thinks Denise is reeling, and hurt because of the accusations. She’s afraid for her children; it’s a lot. In LisaR’s interview, she says they need to have empathy for Denise. She’s in pain. Kyle says she understands, but it started with them hearing things. It didn’t come out of the blue. LisaR says, in the end, she felt badly. She’s a better friend than that. She hasn’t been good friend. Dorit says, maybe Denise feels they shouldn’t be vocal, but it’s not personal. Huh? How is it not personal? LisaR says she’s glad she and Denise had the conversation. She thinks she was probably too harsh, and Dorit says, it was intense; she doesn’t want Denise to shut down. Kyle says, the thing is, to be honest. LisaR says she can’t force someone to be honest, and needs to take a breath and allow it to come out, whatever it is.

The women get ready for their pizza party. Mikey puts Erika’s coat on her, and Sutton has her hair done. Dorit calls home, and Phoenix asks if she can have her cake pop. Dorit tells her, after lunch, and Phoenix says, breakfast is lunch. Dorit tells her that she should be a lawyer. In the taxi, Dorit says the restaurant room she’s designing is gutted and demoed. We flash back to her conversation with the restaurant owner. In Sutton’s interview, she struggles with the name of the restaurant, and the producer says, Buca di Beppo. She asks if it’s like Olive Garden. She’s not being disrespectful, but she’s never heard of it. I usually like Sutton, but that is disrespectful, comparing it to Olive Garden. Come on. Dorit says she’s thinking about putting together Teddi’s baby shower there, but they have to keep it a secret. Why do people always think startling a pregnant woman is a good idea? Kyle says Teddi was firm on not wanting to open gifts in front of everyone. In Kyle’s interview, she says, thank God she has Dorit. She’s been busy, and by the time she gets the shower organized, the baby will be attending it. In Denise’s interview, she says she’s taking control tonight. She’s had it. She’s going to say her peace, and at least they’ll know how she feels.

At the restaurant, Denise says she doesn’t think she’s had a vegetable there except for tomatoes. Erika says she had a ham and cheese sandwich from the kid’s menu at the hotel. In Denise’s interview, she says she’s listening to them now, but she has something to say. She asks when the others are getting there, and Garcelle asks why she cares. She says she wants to prepare herself, and they laugh. The others arrive, and Kyle shows them a video of her in the sidecar. Dorit tells them about the helmets, and says she laughed so hard, it was like she did a thousand sit-ups. She points out it’s their last night together, and Denise says she wants to make a toast and then she’d love to talk about something. She thanks LisaR for bringing them on the trip, the clink glasses, and she smiles. I see the wheels turn in her head.

She says she’s glad she and LisaR got to talk. LisaR is an advocate for being your authentic self, so she’s going to be brutally honest. There’s so much judgement in this group. Every single effing dinner she’s been on the receiving end of being attacked as soon as she sits down. It’s not effing cool. In her interview, Garcelle says Denise never told her, tonight’s the night. She didn’t see this coming. Denise says her husband didn’t want her to go on this trip. He had a feeling, and he was right. Kyle says, when things are out in the open, they have to be addressed. Denise says, do not. In Teddi’s interview, she says, Denise said she was done talking about it, then prepared a speech. What else is she going to do to make them look bad, and make herself look like the victim? I don’t think Denise has to do anything. They’re making themselves look bad just fine on their own, and Teddi is pissed because Denise isn’t being a victim. Denise says, it’s okay when they’re having fun, and Kyle tries interrupting, but Denise continues, saying, it’s the worst trip she’s ever been on. She doesn’t deserve this, and Kyle knows it. Kyle says they just want her to be honest, and Denise says, when she is, no one believes her. Kyle dragged Brandi into it, and it’s not cool. It’s gotten to the point where it’s mean girls. In Erika’s interview, the ice queen she says, if being a mean girl means standing up for yourself and not backing down, then she’s a mean girl. Again, WTF? Do these dolts not hear what comes out of their own mouths? Teddi says she’s glad Denise is sharing, but when she says she’s not judgmental and calls them mean girls, that’s f***ed up.   Denise says, that’s her experience, and her observation. They want her to be brutally honest, and they’ve been bombarding her. It’s not effing cool. In LisaR’s interview, she says, are they afraid to face each other and go at it? Absolutely not. But they were bullied and called mean girls last year – we see some articles online – and it’s a cop out. It wasn’t easy, and Denise knows it’s not cool. Dorit says she doesn’t think anyone tried to deliberately hurt Denise, but Denise disagrees. Dorit says she’s been on the receiving end of some barbs, and it’s not a comfortable moment. Garcelle says she wants to hear them out, but has to excuse herself for a moment. She leaves the table, saying she’ll be back. If I were her, I’d be getting a stiff drink. Kyle says, what’s up with the dramatic exit? once again totally exaggerating, since Garcelle just quietly excused herself and left. Denise says she’s going to go; she’s had enough. She’s done. She walks out, and Sutton says, she likes to leave. In Erika’s interview, she says she doesn’t think Denise would be in this situation if she didn’t leave all the time. No. She wouldn’t be in this situation if these MEAN GIRLS didn’t jump all over her all the time.

Denise sees Garcelle outside, and says she’s leaving. She asks if Garcelle is okay, and Garcelle says she’s just tired, and she misses her family. She’d rather be home with her kids. I’d rather be home with her kids. At the table, Erika says, it’s easy to point a finger and leave, leaving them to pick up the pieces. Denise tells Garcelle, they crossed the line. It’s evil, and detrimental, and not cool. In her interview, Garcelle says, Denise is finally speaking up. She doesn’t deserve this, and it’s not okay. She’s proud of Denise, but thinks if there isn’t full closure, it will be brewing underneath. Garcelle says she’s going back. She sits back down at the table, and tells the group that she’s tired and misses her kids.

Outside, Denise says she wants her car, and a producer says, going back is a big mistake. I say, f*** you, and there’s a commercial, so everyone thinks he’s going to threaten her with being fired. When they come back, Denise says, they’re a-holes, and he says, you can’t make a big speech, and then not hear everyone’s opinion. She says, she’s done, but he says they need to figure out how to move past this, like he cares about anyone’s feelings and not his paycheck. She says, fine. She’s not interested – she’s been hearing what these bitches have to say for months – but she has a friend in there. Teddi says she was willing to be cool about it, and they were called mean girls. Teddi, cool is something you will never be, daddy’s coattails or not. Dorit says they have to listen too; it’s not easy. Denise comes back, and Erika thanks her. Denise says she wants to move past this, and doesn’t want to leave. Kyle says she’d like to resolve it, move on, and have more laughing and having fun. They do have fun. Denise says she knows; she’s experienced it. Kyle says she doesn’t want anyone to be hurt, but Denise says it doesn’t feel that way. LisaR says she thinks it’s best if they don’t label each other or call each other names. Denise tells her, she’s not saying they do that; she said it feels like that. LisaR says she’s asking if, as a group, they can do that. She understands and accepts how Denise feels. Denise appreciates that, and the pizza comes. It looks amazing, with the cheese all the way to the edge of the crust. In Kyle’s interview, she says she’d love it if they could have a nice dinner, wrap this up, and move forward. They do love each other, and can put the bullsh*t aside, and have a good time.

LisaR says, going back to the first night they were there… We flash back to them talking about the worst trouble they got in as teenagers. LisaR asks Denise the same question, and Denise says when she was 15, they moved to San Diego. The drinking age in Tijuana was 18, so she snuck out with her boyfriend and some friends, and they went there, but she got caught. Garcelle asks what’s the craziest place the women have had sex? Sutton says she’d rather talk about the most romantic place, and tells them about a campground in France. Erika talks about doing it with her boyfriend when she was in the hospital, and LisaR says she and a good friend had sex next to each other in a station wagon. Kyle says, they are family cars. Ew. Garcelle tells them to brace themselves – Denise? Denise says, it was in a church parking lot, and Kyle says no wonder they couldn’t get into the Vatican. Everyone laughs, and I sort of identify, since early on in my dating life, a dude wanted to make out in a church parking lot, but I was like, are you kidding?

In Denise’s interview, she says, she knows the issue is still open, but she doesn’t give sh*t. In Kyle’s interview, she says, after everything that’s gone on, this proves they can get along, have fun together, and forgive. Garcelle says she wants them to drop everything that’s negative right now, and move forward, and they toast to that. They order more wine, and laugh. Yeah, this will last all of five minutes.

Next time, Teddi’s shower, the women (minus Denise) confront Brandi, Brandi says she has texts to back it up, and a lot of the conversation is bleeped. It’s my understanding that the only thing the texts prove is that they stayed together, and Denise asked Brandi not to say anything because her kids were there and Brandi doesn’t have the best reputation. So…

👄 Garcelle Tells All…

Or some of it anyway.

https://realityblurb.com/2020/08/07/garcelle-beauvais-scared-to-return-to-rhobh-after-warning-from-lisa-rinna-at-reunion-about-coming-back-next-season-says-more-than-one-costar-was-sent-a-cease-and-desist-and-tal/

💰 Unwarranted Offense…

I like Sutton most of the time, but she does tend to overreact. At least she’s low-key about it.

https://realityblurb.com/2020/08/07/rhobh-sutton-stracke-claps-back-at-dorit-kemsleys-claim-of-buying-friends-plus-who-is-her-ex-husband/

🛸 Humor On the Bridge…

Some fun from The Next Generation.

https://comicbook.com/startrek/news/star-trek-the-next-generation-tng-outtakes-intakes/#1

🐍 Brandi Strikes Again…

I wish she’d just crawl back under the rock from whence she came.

https://realityblurb.com/2020/07/30/more-text-messages-from-denise-richards-and-brandi-leak-showing-brandi-accusing-denise-of-making-her-out-to-be-a-cheater-and-a-liar-as-denise-accuses-rhobh-cast-mates-of-using-them-as-scapegoats/amp/

💃🏿 A Movement, Not a Moment…

This show is now on rotation on Bravo. I saw it the other night, and it’s excellent. Catch it if you can.

https://www.bravotv.com/the-daily-dish/empowering-race-in-america-a-movement-not-a-moment-bravo-special-details

A concurring PSA.

https://www.bravotv.com/the-daily-dish/black-lives-matter-psa-starring-real-housewives-bravo-stars

Ally Leah.

https://pagesix.com/2020/08/08/leah-mcsweeney-wants-more-diversity-on-rhony-says-everyone-should-be-an-ally-to-blm/

🤦🏽 How Did It Happen…?

How does it get to be such an hour without my knowledge? At least we’re on the other side and moving toward the weekend, whatever that means to you. Until next time, stay safe, stay empathic, and stay being honest, but not brutal.

Aug12

August 11, 2020 – Curtis Becomes a Thorn, New Sheriff In Town, InstaSoap, Witchy Woman, Challenging, Con Cancel & Time

Posted on by
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What I Watched Today

(rambling, random thoughts & annoyingly detailed recaps from real time TV watching)

 

General Hospital

Sam sits by Jason’s bedside, and sees she’s missed three calls form Michael. She tells Jason, the doctors tell her that he’s right on track. His vitals are excellent. He can open his eyes at any time, and when he does, she’ll be there waiting.

Michael says, good news. Jason hasn’t regained consciousness, but that’s normal at this stage, and he’s expected to make a full recovery. He’s hoping they get good news in court as well. Brook asks if there are still testimonies to be given, and Willow says, everyone has said what they have to say. Michael says, the judge’s decision is all that’s left.

At the MetroCourt, Nelle tells Martin that he’s late. He says if she wants him to be on time, she needs to show up on time. He needs to get his coffee, and she says they have to think of an excuse for her not to be in court. There’s no way she’s going into the courtroom today.

On the phone, Jordan says she knows she should have given Laura a heads up. It’s within Laura’s purview to ask her to resign. When she’s done, she sees TJ, and says she didn’t know he was working. He says he got to observe a surgery, and she says she hopes he’s not skipping PT. He says he’s been going, and his leg is almost as good as new. She says, as a mom, she gets to worry about her son, and he says, as a son, he gets to worry about his mom. He heard her on the phone with the mayor. Does she think she’s going to be fired for endorsing Cyrus?

Lucy sees Cyrus at the MetroCourt bar, and congratulates him, not just on being exonerated, but for the amazingly enthusiastic stamp of approval from the Commissioner. She introduces herself, and he says he thought she looked familiar. He’s been pouring over her book. It’s helping him get acclimated to his new home town. The photo on the jacket doesn’t do her justice. She thanks him, and says, as someone who’s been wrongly accused a number of times, it’s heartening how he’s getting through the wake of inaccurate accusation. He says, it’s good to meet a kindred spirit, and she says she hopes they’ll have more in common. She’s the chairperson for the biggest, brightest, most awesome event in Port Charles – the Nurses Ball. She hopes she can count on his contribution. Frankly, I’d love to see him perform.

Brook tells Michael and Willow that she’ll do anything to help, and Willow says maybe they’ll take her up on it. Olivia and Ned join them, and Brook asks if they kissed and made up. Ned says they’re fine. He’s glad they’re all there. They have to pull together as a family. Brook asks, for what? and Michael says he’d like to know too. Ned says, it shouldn’t take long. He’s holding an emergency meeting of the ELQ shareholders. They’re officially voting on bailing GH out of their financial troubles.

On the phone, Valentin tells Skye that he’ll be there.

Sam tells Jason, Epiphany saved them again. Her parole officer was about to barge in, and would have slapped her with a parole violation, but it won’t be a problem for them anymore. Valentin comes in, and asks how Jason is doing. She says, his prognosis is good, and he says she was able to stay. He guesses she had no trouble with her parole officer. She says, thanks to him, and he says, it was a temporary fix, but he can make it permanent as soon as she signs. He has a succinct strategy. She agrees to delegate Danny and Scout’s ELQ voting power to him until their respective 18th birthdays, and if her parole officer shows up again, it will be the last time. He tells her that she doesn’t have to trust him. He has other places he has to be, so is she going to sign or not. She looks at an unconscious Jason.

Cyrus tells Lucy, the Nurses Ball was a favorite part of the book, but it was all fascinating. She thanks him, and says, the history of Port Charles practically wrote itself. He says the Nurses Ball is a colorful part, and she says, since he’s interested, now would be the perfect time… He says to give a contribution to the Nurses Ball? He’ll even underwrite it. She says, Sonny traditionally underwrites it, but Cyrus says he doesn’t see why they both can’t shoulder the burden. It’s a worthy charity, and he wants to support the hospital as an institution. She says his timing couldn’t be more perfect. The hospital is being maligned by that nasty piece of baggage, Nelle Benson. He says he’s heard, but she says she’s sure the Quartermaines have it covered.

Jordan tells TJ, she’s still employed, and he says not everybody is happy that she told the world Cyrus is a great guy. He’s not happy either. She’s despised Cyrus since his name came up. She says she doesn’t have to like someone to apply the law to their circumstance. When she learned he was framed, she had to come forward with what she knew. TJ says, that would have been enough. Why go the extra mile and vouch for him publicly?

Ned tells the group that Cyrus is making a play for the hospital. They need to act fast. Michael says they need to vote within an hour; he’s due in court. Ned says, it’s a technicality. He can’t imagine anyone voting against it, although he invited Lucy as a tie breaker. Willow is puzzled, and Michael tells her that Lucy has one share in case there’s a tie. Ned says he needs to call Monica and Skye, so she can vote for herself and Lila Raye. Sam is probably staying with Jason today, and he needs to get Danny and Scouts proxy, but it can be done after the meeting. Michael says he can vote for Brook, but Ned says Brook can vote herself. She’s always saying she wants to feel like more of a part of the family, so she can stay and vote.

Martin tells Nelle, no. It’s too late to delay. He understands she’s reluctant. The one character witness she had turned against her. She says she needs one doctor to write her a note that she can’t appear in court. Martin says, it’s not grade school where you bring in a doctor’s note. What could she possibly hope to gain? She says, the judge will have no choice to delay his decision, but he says if the judge has decided in her favor, her frivolous absence could change his mind. Why does she need a doctor’s note? She says so she can prove she’s too ill to appear, and he suggests she’ll appear too frail to be a mother. She says, okay, genius. If that won’t work, what will?

Sam hesitates, then signs. Valentin smiles.

Nelle says she needs a stall tactic, and Martin says, so she has time to do what? She tells him that he needs to get Josslyn to admit she’d be dead without Nelle’s kidney. Or have Jax admit he forced her to be an organ donor. He says the only party who forced anything was her father; he’s responsible. She tells him to get someone to testify about her terrible childhood, but he says, it’s too late. The judge will see through any tricks she pulls, like her sham of a marriage. Sorry. It’s over. She says, so there’s nothing he can do to help her be with her son. He says he didn’t say that. There is one thing.

Ned says, Monica recused herself from the vote. She thought it was inappropriate, given the hospital’s financial troubles are, in part, due to her. Michael says, she did nothing wrong. As far as she knew, Nelle signed the consent form. Willow says as long as Wiley got the help he needed, she’s grateful. Ned says, unfortunately, Nelle’s vindictiveness pushed the hospital into a corner. Ned makes a call, and says, ELQ may not be in a position to help. Skye, Maya, and Lila Ray all sold their shares. Olivia says, so Ned was right about a hostile takeover, and Michael asks, what the hell is going on?

Sam tells Jason that she should have gone over it with him first, but she knows he doesn’t care about the family business. It’s the family he loves.

Ned says he didn’t want to trouble Michael. Michael was focused on other priorities, and he thought he could handle it himself. Michael says it wasn’t Ned’s decision to make, but they’ll deal with it later. Who bought the shares? Ned says he doesn’t know, and neither do they. It was done through a mediator under the condition of their silence. Olivia says, all that matters is that they focus on saving GH. The mysterious purchaser still doesn’t have 50%. Ned says they’re still the majority shareholders; it’s a done deal. He asks if Sam gave Danny and Scout’s proxy to Michael, but Michael says he didn’t want to bother her. Ned says he’ll call her, and Valentin walks in, saying, there’s no need. Sam signed over her children’s right to vote their shares to him.

Sam tells Jason to come back to her. It’s all she wants; for him to be him, and the freedom to be with their kids. Delores is at the door, and says Sam doesn’t have that kind freedom. She needs to leave now, or Delores will send her back to Pentenville.

TJ tells Jordan, the rumor is, her press conference could have swayed the board to accept money from Cyrus. That’s the last thing they want to happen. She says, obviously, she needs to make amends in some measure, and he says, it’s none of his business. She’s doing what she thinks is right. He apologizes for being insensitive. No matter what Taggert did, he was still her friend, and she’s still grieving.

Cyrus thanks Lucy, saying she’s the first stranger in Port Charles he’s met who treated him like a friend. He looks forward to getting to know her better. She looks at the check, and says, the feeling is mutual. Ta! When she’s gone, Curtis comes over to the bar, and sits next to Cyrus. Cyrus asks to what does he owe the pleasure? Curtis says, my wife. Cyrus is to have no more private meetings with her. Cyrus says Curtis doesn’t have a say in the business he conducts with the Commissioner, but Curtis says he might want to reconsider that, in light of a certain person who resides at 1257 Wilson Avenue.

Martin tells Nelle, all he has to do is make a phone call to Michael. He’ll explain that she’s willing to share custody, and she’ll drop the sole custody suit. To sweeten the offer, she’ll drop the suit against the hospital. He’s fairly certain that Michael will give her a generous visitation schedule in return. How about giving it a try? She says, how about giving this a try? You’re fired. I saw that coming for sure.

Ned wonders why Sam would give Valentin the proxy, and Valentin says he has it in writing. Along with several other key shareholders, including Nelle. Michael wanted her out; he’s welcome. He used an intermediary, and no one knew they were selling to him. Olivia asks, why? When has the family ever gotten in his way? He says, ask your CEO, and Michael asks if it’s because he supported Sasha. Valentin says, no, but that’s when he was introduced to ELQ. Olivia asks why  why Sam give up her shares, and Valentin says, she didn’t; he has the voting proxy. He’d never ask her to give up her children’s inheritance. Olivia says Sam would never do that willingly. What did he coerce her with? He says he’s reciprocating the discretion. Brook says, interesting, but she’s booked studio time, and has to go. Ned says she needs to stay and vote, but she says, actually, she doesn’t.

Sam tells Delores, Jason had an accident, and almost died. Delores says she’s sorry to hear that, but the law is still the law. Sam says, these are extraordinary circumstances. What’s wrong with her? Delores says Sam has been flouting the law, and she’s in the wrong to uphold it? Sam says Delores is wrong to follow her around. She’s supposed to report to Delores once a week, not have Delores stalking her. Delores wonders what Sam would be up to while she was waiting around, when a guy wearing a badge walks in. He says the Deputy Chief sent him, and he wants a word with Delores.

Jordan say she feels terrible for Trina. She was hurt so badly having her father’s reputation tarnished after losing him. She wishes she could do more to help, but Trina wants nothing to do with her. She’s just grateful the people she loves are still with her, and TJ is at the top of the list. TJ says, what he’s learned in medicine is that there are no perfect answers. They just do their best, and hope their best is enough. Her work is similar. Upholding the law is her duty, but she can’t control the outcome. She asks how he got so wise, and he says, watching her.

Cyrus wonders how many Wilson Avenues there must be, and Curtis says Cyrus may recall he’s a P.I.. He’s been one for a long time, and there’s only one Wilson Avenue there. It’s an arts and crafts home, and someone Cyrus cares about lives in it; someone he cares enough about to send money every week. Sure, he can move them again and again, but Curtis will find them again and again. If he has an interest in keeping them safe, he’ll do what Curtis asked. Cyrus says he’s not sure he’s hearing correctly, but Curtis says he hears fine. He just doesn’t like what’s being said. He’s used to blackmailing and bribing to get what he wants, but justice is coming for him. Before Cyrus that Curtis can be threatened or bribed, he’s not for sale. There’s nothing Cyrus can use. Cyrus isn’t too sure about that, and Curtis says Cyrus barely has a foothold in Port Charles. His luck has run out, and he knows what he stands to lose if he comes for Curtis’s family or threatens his wife. Curtis will fight back. From here on out, they play by his rules, and he knows Cyrus hears him.

Martin strongly suggests Nelle not fire him. She needs him in her corner; he’s all she’s got. Nelle says she sees how that’s working. The case was a slam dunk, and he lost it. He says, if anyone lost it, it was her. She’s her own wrecking ball. In time, he can petition for the judge to reexamine the case, and if she stays on the straight and narrow, he might reconsider. She says he let Diane run circles around him. She portrayed Willow like Cinderella, when Willow was in a cult. He says, a cult whose leader Nelle chose to marry. She says he should have brought up how Michael’s father is a crime lord, his mother is a terrible person, Jason is a killer, and his grandma used to be a prostitute. She would have had a better chance representing herself. He says he’d love to see that, and she says she’ll find someone else to take on the GH suit; he’s fired. He says, fine. He has more reasonable and  lucrative clients to attend to. Honestly, he’s glad to be done with all this – and her. She says, the feeling is mutual, and he says she’ll be receiving his bill afternoon. She says, what bill? and he says his service was not pro bono. She says they lost; she doesn’t owe him anything. He says he’s not a bargain basement ambulance chaser who she doesn’t have to pay if she gets no money. She says, no Wiley, no money, and he says let him give her some free legal advice. Don’t ever screw over a lawyer. They know a thousand ways to affect your life. She’ll pay his fee and the court costs. She says she has no spare cash, but he says he thinks she does. She says she needs it to get as far away as possible, and he says, really? Is she planning on leaving town?

Willow says she knows how important this is, but they need to leave. Michael says it will be better if they don’t have this hanging over their heads, and Ned tells Michael to give him his proxy; he thinks he knows how Michael would vote. Michael says Ned has made a lot of assumptions on behalf of him. Let’s get it over with; they’re still the majority shareholders. Ned says they’ll start with Valentin, and Valentin says he votes no. ELQ is strong and healthy. He doesn’t want to waste their assets on supporting a failing institution. Olivia starts yelling at him, and he says despite her emotional appeal, he’s not changing his mind. She says she doesn’t give a damn about his mind. She’s trying to change his heart. It was her mistake thinking he had one. Ned says the actual family members will vote. He’ll start. He votes yes to giving GH the funds to protect itself from the lawsuit and stay afloat. Michael says, yes, and Ned says, he also has Dillon’s proxy; Brook is next. Brook says she would vote yes, and Ned says, that settles it. Michael says, Brook said she would vote yes, and Brook says, that’s right. If she had a vote. She no longer owns the shares; Valentin does. Everyone looks at Valentin, and he smiles. He did a lot of that during this episode.

Delores comes back, and tells Sam, congratulations; she’s off the case. Sam asks, how? but Delores doesn’t have a clue. The order is from the big boss. She doesn’t suppose Sam know anything about that. The guy says he’s Owen Anderson, Sam’s new parole officer, and thanks Delores, telling her she can go. Delores says, for the record, she meant no ill. She was just doing her job and upholding the law, but Sam got what she wanted after all. She leaves, and Sam asks Owen how this works. Does she have to leave? He says, of course (🍷) not. She can stay as long as she wants. Family first. He leaves, closing the door behind him.

Jordan goes to the MetroCourt, and says she got Cyrus’s text. What does he want? She just had to go on TV, and tell the city that the most evil, vile, dangerous man she knows is someone they can trust. It didn’t feel great, so stop wasting her time, and tell her what the hell it is he wants now. He tells her, call off her husband. She asks what Curtis did, and Cyrus says Curtis explained to him, that should he make a move to threaten those he loves, there will be dire consequences. She says, really? What did he threaten Cyrus with? What did he use as leverage? What could Curtis possibly know that’s bad enough to ruffle Cyrus’s feathers?

TJ tells Curtis, he told his mom that their work isn’t all that different. He guesses that goes for P.I.s too. He walked in mid phone call when Laura was chewing out Jordan about the press conference. Curtis says, she didn’t have much choice with the pressure from the DEA and the Feds to offset the damage caused by Taggert. TJ says, that’s not how she explained it to him.

Nelle says she’s ignoring any bill. Martin is worse than useless. She promises, if she loses her son, someday she’ll make him pay. Martin says he thinks she does need a doctor. Maybe Mrs. Corinthos can recommend one from her stay in Ferncliff. She’s clearly losing it. Nelle says she’s not losing anything; not anymore. Wiley is hers. Not Michael’s, not Carly’s – hers. She’s going into court to win her case; the one he gave up on. And when she does, she’s taking her baby as far away as possible.

Ned asks what Brook did, and she says the only way Linc would let her out of her contract was in exchange for her shares. He was holding her music career hostage. She had no way out, and took the deal. Ned says Valentin pointed that sexual predator at his daughter? Valentin says, Linc is a vial human being, and stuck Brook with her contract. He offered her a way out. Ned asks Brook why she didn’t come to him, and she says she did. He said he didn’t want to help, and then said there was nothing he could do, so she had to help herself. He says, by handing her shares over to that sleaze? She says, it’s just a company; it’s not the family. Valentin says he hates to interrupt, but this is supposed be a business meeting. He has voting proxy, and legally owns shares, which gives him 50% of the company. Olivia tells Ned, Lucy will cast her vote, and all will be well. Michael says he and Willow need to go, and Olivia says he was right to vote to save GH. Brook should have told them. Michael says they’ve all made questionable calls, but they’re still family. They should all remember that. Olivia tells him, good luck, and they leave.

Michael opens the door, and Lucy falls in. She says she’s sorry she’s late, but she’s sure it doesn’t matter. They don’t need her vote. Michael says they do; to save GH.

Nelle paces in the empty courtroom, and looks at her half-heart necklace. In the hallway, Michael says Willow got a full-on taste of the Quartermaine family, and she tells him, she can’t say she wasn’t warned, but nothing prepared her for that. He hopes it wasn’t too much, and she says she doesn’t know what’s going on with ELQ, but even when they’re at odds and fighting, they do what’s best for the family. He says good to know it didn’t scare her off. She says, far from it. This scares her. What if they lose? Michael thinks they’re in good shape, but no matter what, they’re in this together. They’ll find a way to make it okay for Wiley.

Nelle looks at the passports, and puts them in her purse. She looks at the tracking device on her phone. Michael and Willow walk in, and they face each other.

Jordan says there’s something she knows about her husband that Cyrus doesn’t. Curtis doesn’t bluff. If he’s pressuring Cyrus to put a leash on himself, Curtis must have something good, something important on him. Cyrus says Jordan’s husband is a brave man. Foolhardy, perhaps, but brave. He respects Curtis for taking a stand, but he’s become a tiny, irksome thorn in Cyrus’s side. If the thorn becomes any sharper or bigger, he’ll have no choice but to prune it.

Curtis tells TJ that his mom has a number of reasons for advocating for Cyrus. If she didn’t give him details, it’s because she’s conflicted. It’s not just pressure from the outside. She has loyalty to her friends, and it’s sometimes at war with her loyalty to the law. TJ says, it makes sense. If it was something bigger, Curtis would tell him, right? Curtis says he’ll always do right by TJ and his mom.

Lucy finds out the mystery interloper is Valentin. Ned says he snatched 50% of the voting shares, and refuses to bail the hospital out. Lucy asks if it isn’t the same hospital that helped his daughter when she jumped into the harbor in the dead of winter, and Valentin says he’s grateful, but that doesn’t obligate him to help them out of the consequences of their poor actions. Ned says he needs to make it official, and asks if Lucy is voting with Valentin or the family to save the hospital she loves so much. Lucy looks at Valentin.

Sam tells Jason, it worked. She just got a new parole officer, and he not only let her stay, he didn’t stick around. She took a chance on Valentin, and he came through. If it’s any indication of how the rest of her parole is going to go, they’ll finally be free. They’ll finally be a family again. Jason squeezes her hand, and she asks if he can hear her. She needs for him to wake up. He opens his eyes.

Tomorrow, Jason asks Sam why he’s there, Lucy is going to break the tie, the judge hands down his ruling, and Mike tells Sonny that he’s ready to go home. Since he seems pretty lucid, I’m wondering if he means heaven or Turning Woods. I’m hanging on as bad as Sonny is.

😵 And while we’re on the GH subject, it’s tough not typing Curtis for Cyrus, and vice versa. Especially when they’re in the same scene. Even worse when they’re talking to each other.

Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles

Josh Altman’s client, RD,  was in the business of exotic cars and private jets. He came to pick up Josh in a $3 million Ferrari, and was looking for a place he could house his 20 car collection. RD was moving from Arizona to be closer to his client base. He and Josh had met at Haynes, a mid-century, modern that had belonged to Howard Hughes’s girlfriend. Josh took him to Sunset Place, a prime location that attracted young money. He figured the one snag would be the space for the cars. The house was new, just finished, and priced at $7.390 million. In his interview, Josh said out-of-towners thought they had to spend a lot, but that wasn’t always the case. Because, you know, $7.390 million isn’t a lot. RD’s cap was $16 million, but Josh wanted to save him as much money as possible, so he would return the favor when Josh was ready to buy a car. The house had pocket doors, and infinity pool (heaving huge sigh), an entertainer’s kitchen with a stove that had a retractable vent – never saw that before, and loved it. I actually have no idea what the difference between an entertainer’s kitchen, a chef’s kitchen, or any other kind of kitchen is. All I know is, I’m doomed to a kitchen the size of a postage stamp. If by some miracle, I bought one of these houses, there would be a fluke, and the kitchen would be minuscule. RD was impressed with the home office, saying it was dope. He didn’t look like someone who would call something dope, but in Josh’s interview, he said RD was easy to read – which was dope. The one thing RD was skeptical about was, not enough parking.

Meanwhile, Josh Flagg went to Thrush, whose owner Lana had met Josh’s grandmother Edith, ten years ago. Josh felt it meant Edith was still looking out for him. He was met by Lana, and French bulldogs, Bella and Lala. Lana told Josh how she and his grandmother met at a restaurant, where his grandmother had complimented her. Built in 1990, the house had three floors, and was 4,554 square feet. In Josh’s interview, he says his grandmother never gave compliments that were unwarranted, and we flashed back to Edith being feisty. She passed away during the course of the show, and I miss her. There were city/canyon views, a Bulthaup kitchen (don’t know jack about high-end appliances either), an outside Zen oasis, and an owl. That’s right, this house came complete with its own owl in a tree in the backyard. There were outside stairs going to the master bedroom, which had a huge master bath, and automatic blinds. In his interview, Josh said that contemporary architecture was difficult to keep from looking dated, and most houses of that design needed a cosmetic update. But what didn’t need work in L.A.? In L.A. it was all about constant maintenance. Lana, who no longer lived in the house, was looking for around $5 million, but Josh thought $3.995 million was more realistic, since there was so much inventory in the area that wasn’t moving. Lana appreciated his honesty, and gave him the listing.

James and David looked at the Sunset View house, owned by developer Zach, who had a New York relationship with Fredrik, but had done business with James and David in L.A. They were glad he’d reached out to them. The house was 10,000 square feet, and featured indoor/outdoor living. It had a panoramic view, custom furniture, and Gaggenau appliances in an entertainer’s kitchen (shrugging). It had been designed by Tim Campbell, known for his sophisticated textures. There were five bedrooms, the master having dual walk-in closets, a private movie theater, a basement that had full daylight, and a home gym. Sitting on an 18,000 square foot lot, it also had a vanishing edge pool. Near Sunset Strip, the area attracted a younger demographic in the entertainment industry. While David James thought it should be priced at $14.995 million, Zach was stuck on $15.5, but didn’t want it to stay on the market. In James’s interview, he says Zach had a history with Fredrik, and if they weren’t transparent, and the house didn’t sell, Zach would go to him. They settled on $15.495 million. This was one of those L.A. houses that’s all squares and angles, so not for me. Like I might ever have to make that decision.

RD let JoshA drive his car to a Marilyn Drive house. Just having been listed, they were the first people in, and met by agent Griffin. Listed at $13.9 million, the house was 6,190 square feet, had six bedrooms and seven baths, something Griffin called a wine rack that was really a room with a glass wall, a humongous master suite that comfortably house a double king bed (that’s quite big in case you hadn’t guessed), and a sauna. The lot was an impressive 15,253 square feet, and showcased the home’s two story glass wall. RD said he loved the parking and the master bedroom, but the driveway was cracked, and he didn’t want to be driving his cars over it. In his interview, Josh said it was going to be tougher than he thought, but it was part of the job ft find a needle in a haystack. RD said he wanted a combination of both houses.

JoshF found out there was no power at the Thrush house before the broker’s open, and the caterer was freaking out. His assistant asked if they should cancel, but Josh said he didn’t care if they had to have fondue. He’d hired a charcuterie expert, which I would have never guessed was a real job. Edith had stressed good food and drink. It didn’t make someone buy a property, but it made them stay and not run away. Josh wanted them to stay so he had time to explain why potential buyers would want an older house. In his interview, he said, contemporary goes out of style quickly. People want something shinier and newer.

Heather had reminded JoshA of a property on the Bird Streets, owned by a developer who was desperate to sell. It parked ten cars, and was going to list at $22.995 million when it went on the market. Josh told RD to see if he loved the house first; there was a deal to be made. It was 9,050 square feet, with floor to ceiling bookcases, and a chef’s kitchen. It was unfinished, broker Larissa said the buyer could pick out the finishings. It had a jetliner view, and sat on a 48,351 square foot lot. RD liked that he could put the finishing touches on it and personalize it. Josh said it was an 8, and RD could take it to a 12. I was impressed with the wine station, that dispensed several different wines like a soda fountain. The library was out of this world, and the master bedroom was the size of an apartment. It had eight baths, and a garage with a lift. RD loved the privacy, and got so excited, it made me laugh.

Fredrik showed up at the Sunset View house, and James and David showed him around. Fredrik mentioned that he’d done selling for Zach on the East Coast, but David James said L.A. was their turf. Fredrik whined that the master was small, and James David James said it was bigger than a New York penthouse. In James’s interview, he said he saw through Fredrik’s BS. This is their client in L.A., so this is how he behaves. Fredrik made a point of saying he wasn’t there to take the listing, and assured them not to be worried. James said they had the listing, but Fredrik said there would be an issue when there were more listings, and said he thought it was weird that he wasn’t on this one too, along with them. James David said Fredrik should have brought a buyer, and in his interview, Fredrik said there was a new sheriff in town.

RD loved the Bird Street house, and JoshA told Larissa that RD was the right buyer. Nothing in the area had been traded in the $20 million range in 14 months. He made an offer of $14 million, plus finishing costs. Larissa said it would relieve the developer of the burden of finishing, and they countered at $18 million. While RD’s cap was $16 million, Josh offered $15 million, as is. A deal was made at $15.750. The buyer would finish it on his own, but Larissa promised he’d have all the plans, permits, and reports. Josh walked away with a $315K commission.

Next time, a house designed like an English castle by RHOBH’s ex-Housewife Carlton, the Altman brothers dress like knights, and Zack threatens to bring Fredrik in on the listing.

🧙🏻‍♀️ Yes, That Carlton…

I thought she was kind of interesting, and wish she would have stuck around for another season. No surprise she scared Kyle, even though she was more normal than the rest of them.

https://www.bravotv.com/the-daily-dish/new-housewife-carlton-gebbia-talks-life-as-a-wiccan

🧼 A New Kind Of Soap…

This was pretty cool. Quick though.

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/general-hospital-stars-in-new-igtv-series-enterexit

📅 A Challenge In a Challenging Year…

I have no idea why this started, but it’s kind of funny.

https://www.soapsindepth.com/gallery/cbs/soap-stars-take-the-2020challenge-and-the-results-are-hilarious

🧙🏽 In Case You Hadn’t Guessed…

Some very impressive ice cosplay photos from 2019 though. One guy is dressed up like a Rick Astley YouTube video. I love conventions, and this photo gallery made my pulse quicken.

https://www.brooklynvegan.com/new-york-comic-con-2020-officially-cancelled/

⏱ Time Management Is Key…

It’s a shame we have to do that pesky eating, sleeping, and going to the bathroom. I’d get so much more done in a day if we didn’t. I’ll figure this new blog editor out yet. While I’m doing that, stay safe, stay inquisitive, and stay flexible to change, which seems to happen every five seconds now.

Aug11

August 10, 2020 – Jordan Holds a Press Conference, Malia Gets Her Way, Bugs Talks Boatmances & Writing

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What I Watched Today

(rambling, random thoughts & annoyingly detailed recaps from real time TV watching)

General Hospital

TJ tells Elizabeth, there’s dedication and martyrdom; she should go home. She says she’s not going until she knows Jason is okay, and he supposes there’s no point in arguing.

In the elevator, Ava says Nikolas is unusually quiet. He says he heard from Spencer, and she asks if they worked things out. Is he planning to work on their marriage, or leave her and his fortune behind? He says, they are, only answering her first question.

Willow tells Michael that she never thought they’d get out, and he asks how many books they read Wiley. She says she lost count, and Michael says, Wiley held out long as he could, but was asleep by the end of Goodnight, Moon. She hopes when this is over, they’re able to read to Wiley every night.

At the MetroCourt, Nelle says Julian knows how to spoil her, and he asks how he can when she’s already rotten. He tells her, whoever is doing the hostage holding, pays the bill. She says, until the judge makes a ruling, they need to make a good impression of the happy, thriving couple they are. Ava and Nikolas come by, and Ava says she thinks Nelle needs to look those words up. She doesn’t think they mean what Nelle thinks they mean. (Ha-ha! A nod to The Princess Bride.) Nelle asks if Ava is there to congratulate her on becoming Ava’s sister-in-law, and Ava asks Nikolas to give them privacy. He leaves, and Nelle says he didn’t have to go; they’re all family. Ava says there’s no need for Nikolas to witness this. She and her big brother have a lot to catch up on.

Lulu sees Ned at the hospital, and asks if she can have a moment. He says, it depends on the subject matter, and she says rumors are circulating that Cyrus has offered to bail the hospital out, but ELQ is going to block him by providing the money instead. Does Ned have a comment? He says, to the reporter who leaked ELQ’s last major acquisition? No. She says, what about off the record? To a family friend who knows Cyrus is bad news and cares as much about the hospital as he does. Information could be helpful. Her mom is still in DC, but one of her contacts on the GH board told her that Cyrus put forth a very attractive proposal, and they’re voting tomorrow night. Ned says, which means they’re running out of time.

On the phone with Martin, Valentin says Sam turned him down, but he’s not overly concerned. She’ll have a change of heart sooner rather than later.

Jordan tells Curtis, she’s working on a case, and doing her job. Curtis says he knows when she’s holding back. Why not not do that this time, and tell him the truth? She says, fine. She had a meeting with Cyrus.

Cyrus toasts to Jason. He imagines Jason would have been a worthy adversary.

Sonny asks Brando to take him through what happened at the garage. Brando says he fixed Jason’s bike… Sam appears, and says he’s lying. Jason would never let anyone touch his bike.

Franco comes to the hospital, and Elizabeth asks Franco how Jake is doing. He puts on a brave face. Franco says he doesn’t know anyone who’s been through such darkness and come out good. She says she does, and he thanks her. She says she should go see how Jake is doing, but he says he knows she wants to hang out until she gets news about Jason; he understands. And she’s probably making overtime. She says she is, and calls him a gold-digger. He says, now she knows. He’s feeling neglected, but she can make it up to him at the unveiling tomorrow. She says, with everything going on… and he says she’s planning on not going, isn’t she?

Sam says, no way in hell did Jason ask Brando to work on his bike. Brando says Jason didn’t. Jason ordered a stabilizer and he thought he was doing Jason a solid. She says, it’s the same thing that failed and caused the crash, but Sonny says they don’t know that. She says, it makes sense. It’s Brando’s fault Jason is fighting for his life.

Curtis asks where Jordan was with Cyrus, and she says, his new apartment. She was perfectly safe. It would take him too much time to break in a new Commissioner if she was dead. He asks if she ever thought of having some backup, but she says she can’t have a witness to her acts of corruption under duress. He says she needs to go to Mac, and make this an official sting operation, but she says she has to figure out how to do this without Curtis and TJ getting hurt. Curtis suggests she keep him in the loop the next time she goes to a private meeting at a known drug trafficker’s lair. She says she should have told him, but she knew he wouldn’t let her go.

Ned tells Lulu that no one wants to see the hospital fall into Cyrus’s hands. Lulu says half the board thinks he’ll save the hospital, and Ned says, the other half don’t care who it is, as long as the check clears. Michael is preoccupied, but Ned is going to hold an emergency family shareholders meeting tomorrow. He’ll make a pitch for ELQ to be the hospital’s chief financial backer, and with any luck, it will be approved. Lulu says, with any luck? She thought it was a done deal.

Valentin tells Martin to focus keeping the shares he’s already acquire under wraps. He’ll take care of the details. Nikolas comes by, and wonders if someone needs to watch their back, their wallet, or both.

Ava says she would have offered to buy the newlyweds a set of knives, but she didn’t think it would end well. Nelle says, cash is acceptable. After all, she and Julian are starting a life together. Ava wonders if she should leave it on the dresser. Tell her how this blissful union came to be? Nelle says it was after she saw how close Julian was with Wiley. There’s nothing sexier than a good daddy. Ava says, or a good-looking grandpa. Go on with the love story. Nelle says she spent some evenings at Charlie’s, and she and Julian got to know on another. Ava asks, when and with what did Nelle blackmail her brother? She hates to hijack Nelle’s story, but she’s taking forever. Nelle says Ava has had an unlucky time in the romance department, but Ava says those days are over. She’s a legitimate princess, and her marriage isn’t just a sham. Julian says she’s right. The bloodthirsty manipulative little bitch blackmailed him.

Michael tells Willow that he has confidence in Diane. The best they can do is stay positive, and hope for the best. Willow hopes he’s right. The doorbell rings, and she says until the ruling is made in their favor, she’s not taking anything for granted.

Elizabeth tells Franco that Jason is having exploratory surgery. He says he hopes it goes well, and she says she wants to stay close – for Jake’s sake. He says he was selfish to ask, and she says, it wasn’t; it’s just bad timing. Felix calls to her, and she tells Franco to let Jake know that she’ll call if there’s any news.

Valentin wonders if no one ever told Nikolas that it’s impolite to eavesdrop. Nikolas asks if no one ever told Valentin not to make clandestine phone calls in public places. Valentin says that’s where the best clandestine phone calls are made. Nikolas says the unveiling is tomorrow, and Valentin says he can’t make it. Nikolas says he wouldn’t put it past Valentin to sabotage the night, since he probably still misses Windymere. Valentin says his business is no longer Nikolas’s concern, and turns his back.

Ned tells Lulu, someone is making a play for ELQ, and she says, again? He says, this is different. It’s off the record? She says, of course (🍷), and he says someone is using an intermediary to buy up the voting shares. She asks how bad the situation is, and he says he’s reasonably confident it’s under control. She hopes he’s right, because if there’s any delay, Cyrus will swoop right in. Cyrus walks up, and says, that’s why his ears are burning. He’s always at the top of someone’s mind around there. How flattering.

Nelle tells Julian, it’s one thing to make a joke with his sister, but she’s his wife. Surely he wouldn’t want anyone to think their marriage is anything but legitimate. Julian misses the opportunity to say, don’t call me Shirley, and says, Ava already knows. Ava says, even if she didn’t, Nelle just gave it away with her poorly veiled threats. She’s aided and abetted Nelle, and knows how Nelle works. Nelle says she’s a changed person; she’s learning and growing. Ava says Nelle may get over on her brother, but why did she go to all this trouble, when she has all the money she needs? Julian says Nelle thought she’d have a better chance at custody, and Ava laughs, saying Julian isn’t the best character witness, and shouldn’t be trifled with. Nelle hopes Ava’s not threatening her. After what they’ve been through together, and done for one another, Ava should trust her as much as she trusts Ava. She wouldn’t want Sonny to find out what Julian did. Neither would she want something to happen to her brother. Nelle says she’ll have this put on Julian’s tab, and goes to the bar. Julian tells Ava, go on. Tell him what an idiot he is, getting mixed up with Nelle. Ava asks what on earth he was thinking, and why hasn’t he killed Nelle yet? 

Willow opens the door to Harmony, who congratulates Willow and Michael on their wedding. She read about it in The Invader. Willow says, it was spur of the moment, and Michael says they were committed to make it happen. Harmony says, when she read about the custody suit, she figured that’s why they expedited things. Michael says, it was a small ceremony, and Harmony says she doesn’t want to jeopardize anything, since she’s associated with the criminal element. Willow says, that’s in the past, but what about her associations in the present?   

Curtis says, Jordan is right, and she says she knew he’d try to stop her. He says, not try; he would have. Jordan says, maybe she would have been a no show. Then TJ might have been jumped on his way home, or Stella would have received a disturbing text message all the way in London, or Curtis would have been in a concrete foundation at a new construction site, and she would have never known what happened to him. That’s why she didn’t tell him things were getting out of control. He says, it’s worse, keeping him in the dark, and she says, sorry she can’t practice full disclosure all the time. He says maybe she’ll practice it now. Look him in the eyes, and tell him there’s nothing else she’s keeping from him. She flashes back to calling (we assume) Harmony on the burner phone, and saying she has to do something. She’s not sure she can go through with it, and needs to be told it’s okay.

Sonny tells Sam to get back, and she says they all know what caused the accident, but Sonny says, it could have been anything. It could been another vehicle or road conditions. He knows it’s hard to believe that Jason’s not perfect, but he misses things. They need to keep it together until Jason pulls through. She says, if he pulls through, and Brando says he knows his way around a bike blindfolded; he never makes a mistake. She says, then explain, but he says he can’t. She says, unless it’s not a mistake.

Julian tells Ava, the second the judge gives a decision, his part in this is over. She tells him, stop making this sound like it’s under control. He wouldn’t be there if Nelle didn’t have him over a barrel. If he thinks Nelle will release him when this is over, he’s a damn fool.

Jordan says, the secrets she’s kept were to protect Curtis and the people they care about. He says, so that’s a no? and she says she’s sorry. It’s tearing her up. He says, then let him in. Unburden herself. She asks what he’ll do then? Sit on it, or take it to Sonny? She knows he’s met with Sonny and Jason at least once. What did they talk about, coffee? Curtis says there was a target on Cyrus’s back as soon as he held TJ captive; now he’s holding the whole city captive. Jordan says she can’t speak out, or people will get hurt, and she can’t quit. Compromise or not, she can’t sit back while a mob war breaks out. She has to figure a way out. He says, and in the meantime, she’ll jump when Cyrus says jump, and do his bidding, while she makes compromise after compromise.

Michael tells Harmony that they know she’s mixed up with a crime boss who’s new in town, and it has to be Cyrus. She says, the man who set up a charitable foundation… Willow says they know she’s a go-between. Jason has been on to her since she approached Sonny’s cousin at the garage.

Brando asks what Sam is saying; he’d never make a mistake like that. She says, then it must have been deliberate. He can’t believe she’s accusing him of trying to kill Jason. Why would he do that? She says, tell her. When things go to hell with her family, he’s always there. The shooting, then her sister. Sonny asks what with her sister, and she says, it was a misunderstanding. Brando says when Cyrus came to town, Sonny became a target, and she says, that’s why it’s no coincidence. He says he knows she’s worried about Jason, so he’s not taking it personally, but she doesn’t know a damn thing about him. She says she doesn’t, and it’s time to do something about that. Elizabeth comes out, and Sam asks if Jason is okay.  

Julian says he appreciates Ava’s concern and creative solutions, but the thing with Nelle is under control. She says, it doesn’t look that way, but if he says so. He says he does, and she wonders where Nikolas ran off to. Julian says they both got themselves stuck in marriages of convenience, but she says she didn’t get herself into anything. He says, they’re damned if they do, and damned if they don’t.

Willow asks Harmony why she’s really there; no stories or excuses, the truth. Harmony says she’s honestly there to congratulate them on their marriage. She can see how much they love each other. The love may be friendship, and may never be more than that, but it’s still a kind of love. Willow thanks her; it was kind of her to say that. Michael’s phone rings, and he steps away to take it. Harmony tells Willow, Michael is a good man, and she deserves what he has to offer. She doesn’t mean the house – although that doesn’t hurt – but his strength and kindness. She’s going to… Willow says, what? and Harmony says, forget she said anything. Forget she was there. Please promise to listen to Jason, and do what he tells her to. He understands the situation, and can protect her. Willow says, from who? Cyrus? Michael comes back in, and Willow asks if he’s okay. He says, Jason was in an accident.

Elizabeth tells Sam that Jason is stable, but still unconscious. Sam asks if she can see him, and Elizabeth says she’ll take Sam to ICU. They leave, and Sonny tells Brando, hold on. Now that Sam is gone, he has questions of his own.   

Cyrus tells Ned and Lulu that he thought he’d pop in, visit the board, and find out how the deliberation of his offer is going. Ned says the hospital has been pushed into a corner, but who knows? Another proposal might come across to save them, and Cyrus can save his money. Then they won’t have to consider a man with a tarnished reputation. Cyrus says they’ve been given the wrong impression, and assures them he’s an innocent man. Lulu says, legally exonerated doesn’t equal innocence, and he says, doesn’t he know it. Fortunately, he has the feeling his damaged reputation is about to be rejuvenated.

Jordan tells Curtis that Cyrus wants her to clear his name. He says she got his conviction expunged, but she says, it’s not enough. Even though his record is clean, he’s still perceived as bad. Curtis asks how she’s going to do this, and she says she’s holding a press conference. He says she’s holding a random press conference to tell everyone how Cyrus loves children and rescues kittens, and she says as Commissioner, she’s going to vouch for Cyrus. He says, then Cyrus gets what he wants, but she says she doesn’t see another option. She knows what happened to Jason, and doesn’t want to invite more trouble. She needs to treat it as a warning, and can’t let anyone interfere, including him.

Sam goes in to see Jason, and asks Elizabeth what the doctors said. Elizabeth tells her, the surgery went well, and there’s no immediate cause for alarm. They’ll know more when he wakes up. Sam says she’d like to be alone with him, and Elizabeth leaves. Sam tells Jason not to quit on her now, and takes his hand.

Brando asks if Sonny thinks he wrecked Jason’s bike, but Sonny says, if he did, they wouldn’t be having this conversation. He needs Brando to tell him if there’s any information out there. Does he think there’s a chance he might have done something? Could a mistake, an oversight, a faulty part have caused the accident? Brando says, absolutely not. He checked the part before and after; it was perfect. Sonny asks if there’s something else Brando needs to tell him, and Brando flashes back to Cyrus coming to the garage, saying his car is fine, but he’s there to discuss another matter. He tells Sonny, nothing that he can think of.

Lulu asks how Cyrus plans on rejuvenating his well-deserved reputation, and he says, the good old-fashioned American way – philanthropy. Ned says, so he’s going to buy himself a good reputation, but Cyrus says he’s going to let his devotion to social justice speak for itself. He has to run, and when he’s gone, Ned says he talks a good game for a known drug lord. Lulu says, Jordan told her mom that Cyrus is the most dangerous man she ever met. They have to stop him, for the sake of the hospital and Port Charles.  

Jordan says, the reporters are there, and Curtis says she doesn’t have to do this. If she talks to them, and gives Cyrus his reputation back, he’ll be one step closer to rebuilding his drug empire. He has a foot everywhere in Port Charles. She says, that ship has sailed, and she doesn’t have much luck in getting it back to shore. She just has to plug the holes. She won’t ask him to stay. She walks out, and he watches as she goes down the hallway.

Sam tells Jason, he’s an expert rider. Someone did this; either Peter or Cyrus. Felix comes in, and tells her that her parole officer is there to see Jason, and Sam asks him to tell her to lay off. Say Jason can’t have visitors. He says, she’s flashing her badge, and acting like there’s a crime in progress. Sam says just tell Delores that she needs twenty minutes, and Felix tells her that she knows what Delores will say. Sam says, that she has ten. He leaves, and she picks up her phone. She calls Valentin, who asks if she’s considered his offer. She says she’s at the hospital; the 10th floor. Get here fast, please.

Willow tells Michael that she’ll look after Wiley if he wants to go to the hospital, but Michael says, Jason is unconscious. He knows from experience that all they’ll be doing is waiting. Besides, Wiley needs him.

Nikolas finds Elizabeth, and says he heard about Jason. He asks if Jason is going to be okay, and she asks if he’s actually concerned. He says he and Jason were friends long ago, but admits he’s more concerned about her. She and Jason have a lot of history, and share a child. He gets the sense Franco is the jealous type. She says, he’s getting better, and Nikolas says she might want to talk to someone with more distance. He mostly wants to make sure she’s okay. She says, it’s not fair, and he says, accidents happen. She says, not that; him. She wants to be angry at him, then he acts like her friend. He suggests they call a time out. Then she can go back to being angry, but for that one minute, they can be old friends again. He takes her hand, and Franco sees them. Nikolas says, how about it? A time out.

Ava comes by, and says Nikolas is sneaky, turning his GPS off. She had to work extra hard to find him. Elizabeth leaves, and Ava says she felt stood up. Nikolas says, perhaps because she was. She says she loves what passes for Cassadine wit these days. He’s such a good friend. He tells her, go to hell, but she says she means it. Franco is so troubled, he lacks the emotional maturity, but Nikolas is exactly the type of warm, understanding, affectionate friend that Elizabeth needs. Nikolas walks down the hallway, and texts Spencer, saying he’s looking forward to discussing their future together.

Nelle asks if Julian and Ava finished bonding, and he says he hopes she didn’t feel left out. He’s sure a cutting edge new money debutante like her can keep busy at the bar. She says, someone is in a sour mood. She wants to make sure they’re on the same page. The second the verdict is handed down, they’ll go their separate ways. If he can’t trust his wife, who can he trust?

Michael tells Willow, he’s trying not to obsess over the worst case scenario, and she says, but he’s obsessing over the worst case scenario. He says they’re in it for the long haul, and hopes they convinced the court. They’ve done everything they can, and he has to hope it’s enough. His phone dings, and he says, it’s a text from Diane. The judge made a ruling, and wants them to convene first thing tomorrow.

Sonny tells Brando that he wants to check in with Carly, but just so they’re clear, he’s not done yet. He goes into the elevator, and stares straight ahead as the doors close. As Brando walks away, he sees Harmony walking toward him. She says, Mr. Corbin, and keeps walking.

Valentin meets Sam in Jason’s room, and says he’s sorry to hear about Jason. She says she bets, and he says she wanted to see him. She says the police are circling; they don’t want to let her stay in ICU. He says, he’s sorry to hear it, and she asks what the deal is again. He says he gets Danny and Scout’s voting proxy until they’re 18, and he’ll pull strings so she can see Jason whenever she wants. She says, deal.

Lulu tells Ned that Jordan is holding a press conference. Jordan stands at the podium, and says she’s asked to speak publicly, and address head on the rumors about Cyrus. As Commissioner, she holds a firm belief that the law is only as good as how well law enforcement holds its own accountable. She found out that evidence was planted by her former colleagues to frame Cyrus for a crime he didn’t commit. Any implication otherwise is false. Cyrus Renault was and is innocent. They can’t give him back the year he spent behind bars, but as Commissioner, she’ll do what she can to protect his reputation as an upstanding member of the community, as she would for any of them.

Watching from his new home, Cyrus says, there’s his girl. He knew she had potential.

Tomorrow, TJ wonders if Jordan will get fired, Michael asks what the hell is going on? and Curtis tells Cyrus that they’re going to play by his rules from here on out.

Below Deck Mediterranean

Port Adriano, Spain. Kiko leaves, and Hannah tells Rob, there goes her best friend on the boat. It shouldn’t have gone down like that; he’s a good person. Rob says she is too, but she says, not like that. Bugs asks Malia how she thought charter went, and Malia says, it was a lot of smoke and mirrors. Bugs thinks they work well together. Malia says if her boyfriend becomes the chef, he won’t be okay with the messy galley. She and Bugs are used to a certain standard, but some people aren’t. Hopefully Tom will be able to sleep on board tonight. Captain Sandy calls the crew for the tip meeting.

The captain says, obviously, everyone knows about Kiko, but charter is a business. It’s never easy, but in spite of what’s going on, it never effected the client professionalism. She thanks them for that. The tip is $20K, or 1500 euros each. In Hannah’s interview, she says, it’s a great tip, but they need to address the elephant in the room; who the chef is. Captain Sandy says the owner had arranged for them to have a day off together. The crew clinks champagne glasses. Alex talks to Bugs, showing her a picture of his waxed chest. He says he’s due for another waxing, and she can do it. She says, sweet.

Malia calls Tom, and asks if he can stay on the boat tonight. The captain said she wants to meet him. The chef leaving wasn’t planned, and they need a chef. He says he’s not fully prepared to cook, but all right. In Malia’s interview, she says the reason Tom is on his way to the UK is to see a sick family member. He has some personal things weighing in at the moment. The captain calls wherever you call for crew members, and says she knows everyone is looking for a chef. She gets it. In her interview, Hannah says, how convenient. She asks Alex how it’s going with Bugs, and he says they joke around and have a good time, but it’s hard in a work environment. Hannah says, Bugs is good at table décor, but I have no idea how that applies here. Malia asks Captain Sandy if it’s okay if Tom stays on the boat tonight. She can see if eventually he wants to do the rest of the season. The captain says she wants to talk to him about that.

In Bugs’s interview, she says her sister worked with Tom, and was matchmaker for Tom and Malia. She was Malia’s cabin mate, and Tom said he liked her, so she hooked them up. Yachting is an incestuous, small world. Alex radios for Bugs to meet him on deck. He asks her to wax his back, saying he feels like a spotted cow. In her interview, Bugs says, like Wolverine. In Rob’s interview, he says he told Jess he loves her, but she didn’t say it back. He wants to go at a pace she’s comfortable with. A producer asks how many women he’s said that too, and he says, not a lot. Bugs works on Alex’s back, and says they could make a carpet. He’s one hairy lug.

Tom arrives, and Malia runs to meet him. He sweeps her into his arms. Bugs continues waxing as Pete looks on. Malia brings Tom on board, and introduces him around. She shows him the boat, and says it’s a shame about the chef, but it was one pretty bad dinner. I’m so sure she cares. Hannah introduces herself to Tom. Malia and Tom go to the guest cabin, and there are rose petals everywhere with a sign that says, Malia and Tom: Reunited and it feels so good. In Malia’s interview, she says, in their business, it’s extremely hard to maintain a relationship. She and Tom knew each other four weeks, when they were separated all over the globe. When they get time together, it’s amazing. It’s worth fighting for. She doesn’t want say he’s the one, but…

Everyone gets ready to go out. They head for a restaurant, and Rob says he’s feeling sassy. Hannah tells Rob and Jess, she feels jealous; she misses Josh. My bad. I thought her boyfriend’s name was also Tom. Bugs keeps asking for one more shot at the bar, and Alex says he has no Bugs spray, so she kept coming around. Rob tells Tom that he respects how Malia’s defined her position in a masculine dominated industry. Hannah says she’s going back to the boat; she’s not feeling that great. She tells Tom that he has an angel on his hands. I’ll bet she doesn’t think so now. Rob says, there’s a cheers in South Africa that says, never above them, never below them, always beside them. He asks why Jess is so sexy, and they kiss. Hannah eats dinner alone, and talks to Josh on the phone. The others leave to go back by 1:30.   

Rob says, elleshwallsweitbgfbi (not a typo) to Jess as they go to her cabin. In the guest cabin, Tom and Malia get busy. Rob tells Jess that he loves her, like a lot, and she says she loves him too. In her interview, she says she’s in love with him, and laughs. She says she’s had enough hurt in the past, and it’s hard to say, but none of her past relationships understood her, and he does, naturally.

Alex yells for everyone to wake up at 10 am for the beach club. Malia tells Tom the captain is excited to meet him, and introduces them. Captain Sandy asks if they had fun last night, and they tell her they did. Tom says he’s flying to the UK, and Captain Sandy says Malia has told her about his mad skills in the galley. She’s been reading about him, and would like to have a chat with him. She promises Malia that she won’t steal him. Um… I doubt Malia thought she would. She says his resume is what she’s always wanted. He worked his way up. He was a sous chef, he was formally trained, and worked in Michelin star restaurants. He was the head chef on an 80 meter vessel, and the sole chef on a 50 meter boat, serving 12 guests. She says she’s asking if he could help her with this season, and he looks like a deer caught in the headlights. The captain says, their maximum is 8 guests, and they have 11 crew members. He says if he can spend more time with Malia, he’d be happy to help. She says she’s so grateful. She can’t wait to see what he can do. She hugs him, and says, thank you. He explains that he was on his way to the UK because his uncle is quite unwell. If something happens, he’ll have to go. Captain Sandy says, the galley is his.    

Malia asks how Hannah is doing, and Hannah says her stomach is sick. She lies down while the others get ready for the beach club. Tom tells Malia about being offered the job, and she’s excited. In his interview, Tom says he knew she’d get him into trouble one day. Captain Sandy calls everyone to the main salon for an announcement. The captain tells the crew that Tom has agreed to be chef. Everyone is like, yay! except for Hannah. Captain Sandy says she’s grateful; the timing couldn’t have been better. No effing comment. She welcomes him, and tells the crew to have a great day. Hannah says she’ll be joining them in a few hours. She’s not well, and can’t leave the bathroom. In her interview, she says she sees trouble on the horizon. If she has an issue with Malia, she’ll have on with Tom, and vice versa. The crew gets in a taxi, and heads out.

In the taxi, Malia asks Alex how he feels about Tom joining the crew. She says, every chef is a little psychotic, but he’s a good one. They arrive at a gorgeous beach club set in a cliff. In Alex’s interview, he says he never thought he’d see something like this. In Jess’s interview, she says, there are a lot of good selfie spots. They have someone take a group shot. On the boat, Hannah eats toast. Jess takes photos of her and Rob. Jess gets on top of Rob, and Bugs wonders what’s going on over there. In her interview, Jess doesn’t know what level they’re on; PG or R. Tom joins them, but Hannah is a no show. Malia and Bugs sarcastically say, Hannah is sick and unable to make it. In Rob’s interview, he thinks Hannah doesn’t want to be around Bugs. Jess says, it’s definitely bullsh*t. Rob tells Jess that he doesn’t belong in America, and she says, same. She’s flying to Bali after this. He says, maybe he’ll come. Everyone does some paddle boarding and swimming.

The captain checks on Hannah, and asks how she’s feeling. In Captain Sandy’s interview, she says Hannah is on her own, and she’s sad for her. She has to see how Hannah shifts this. She asks if Hannah wants some water or toast, and says she’s there for Hannah; whatever she needs. At the beach club, the crew changes for dinner. Jess takes a picture of Tom and Malia, and they move on to the restaurant. They toast to charter six with a new chef. Alex says Malia told him that Tom did some things with Gordon Ramsay, and Tom says he worked under him in London; it was cool. In his interview, he says he had classical training. His mom cooked for the Queen Mother, and hated it. His dad is a chef, and was a raging alcoholic, who he hasn’t seen since he was young. He thinks his mom saw that in his future, and said if he was going to be a chef, he had to do it properly. The food comes, and Malia thinks Hannah is in bed, watching movies and drinking rosé. Not quite. She’s sitting on her bed, using the computer, and drinking ginger ale. In Jess’s interview, she says her and Rob’s relationship is on steroids. It’s scary, but fun. He’s moving in with her. Malia says she doesn’t know if the cabin change has been approved yet, and Tom says, Plan B is that they share a bunk. In Malia’s interview, she says, grow up. They have to work together and live together; it’s part of yachting. Steam starts to come out of my ears. They leave, and Tom massages Malia’s feet in the taxi. Back on the boat, Jess tells Hannah that she picked the wrong day to get sick, and hopes she feels better. Hannah thanks her.

Bugs tells Malia that she hopes Hannah is all right. She started making beds. Malia says, at least someone is taking the initiative. I hate Malia now, as do many of the fans. She fake asks Hannah, what happened? and Hannah says she thinks it’s something she ate. She feels like she’s been through a washing machine. Malia asks if she has a minute. She’d like to share a cabin with Tom, and Jess and Rob would like to share. Hannah says she needs to have a chat with Bugs. They’ve had friction in the past, and she doesn’t know if it will help the situation. In Hannah’s interview, she says, it’s not going to happen. Malia says she needs to know by today, and hopes they can be professional. Captain Sandy radios the crew that she’s going for a walk, and will be off the boat. Malia tells Alex he’s late. He says, three minutes, and she says, that’s ten minutes in deck life. She gives the deckhands a to-do list.

Hannah tells Bugs that Malia came to her about the cabin situation. She understands that Malia wants to be with her boyfriend, but does she think it’s what’s best for the work environment? Bugs says, ideally, Malia would share a cabin with Tom, and Jess and Rob would share a cabin. Hannah says she and Bugs are probably both apprehensive, since they’ve managed to have a good work relationship. It seems like an unnecessary risk. Bugs agrees, and thinks it’s awkward for them, since they’re in a good state. Bugs says, what’s the plan otherwise? They’ll have to find a way to work it out. In Bug’s interview, she says it’s obvious Malia would want to share a cabin with Tom. Do they suck it up? She’s a mature person, and can live whoever she has to live with. Alex asks Rob when the wedding is, and if he can come. Rob says he’s best man. Hannah tells Malia that Bugs isn’t keen on the idea. Their working relationship is going well, and she doesn’t want to risk it. Malia asks how fair that is to her and Tom? They can find a way to make it work, and put their differences aside. Hannah says she’ll have to talk to Bugs, and Malia says, it’s not Bugs’s decision. Hannah says, just because they’re a couple, doesn’t mean it should be Malia’s way. Malia says Jess and Rob are already sneaking around to be together, and Hannah says, just because a Jess and Rob hooked up two weeks ago, doesn’t mean they should go out of their way to cater to them. Malia says she’s in an actual relationship, and Hannah says, so everyone should change things around? Malia says, if a couple is hired, they bunk together, but Hannah says, they didn’t hire a couple. Malia tells her, why don’t you just man up and share a cabin?

Malia tells Hannah, now that they have a team on board, they have to make room. Hannah says, there is room; with Rob. Malia says, you hired Tom, and Hannah says she didn’t hire him. Malia says, you don’t have couples who are a team not room together, and Hannah says it’s how she and Bugs feel. Malia says they didn’t always get along, and they shared cabin fine. Man up, and share the cabin. Hannah says, man up, and live without her boyfriend for two weeks. In Malia’s interview, she says Tom wouldn’t have joined the crew if they couldn’t be a team. It’s either share a cabin or find a new chef. Bugs gives Tom some chef’s jackets to try out. Hannah radios that she’ll be on the dock, and off the radio for ten minutes, and leaves to have a smoke. Malia tells Captain Sandy that she’s done, and the captain says, talk to her. Malia says Hannah doesn’t want to room with Bugs. Instead of realizing the boat is run a certain way, she’s told why can’t she live two weeks without her boyfriend. Tom is head chef, and you don’t tell the chef that his girlfriend – who is also bosun – can’t room with him because someone can’t get along. The captain radios the crew, saying she’s grateful there’s a chef on board. He’s going to stay in the cabin the other chef (who is now apparently nameless) was staying in. In the captain’s interview, she says Tom did them a favor. The chef gets his pick of cabin, because his rank is over everybody. She tells Malia, stay professional, not emotional. They have enough emotion on board. If she wants to be a captain, she can’t act like that. Malia stomps her foot and sucks her thumb. Not really, but she might as well.

It’s time for the preference sheet meeting. The primaries are Isaac and wife Ashely. Isaac is the CEO of a tech company his father started, and he’s also bringing his father and brother. The company is celebrating getting to 100,000 users. It’s a three-day charter, and a beach picnic lunch has been requested, along with an Arabian Nights themed party, with two belly dancers. They also want Michelin star food, and Captain Sandy appreciates that Tom is on board. She says, let’s do it, her new catchphrase. In the galley, Bugs tells Hannah that she’s looking at her new cabin buddy. Malia and Tom want to share a cabin, and Tom outranks them. The chef can have his pick of cabins. In Hannah’s interview, she says it’s become a power struggle, and she doesn’t want to play that game. Just do your job, and thank your boyfriend at the end of the season like normal people. She tells Bugs, it’s only two weeks.

Malia explains to Rob and Jess how they’re switching cabins. Hannah packs. In Alex’s interview, he says, it makes sense. Rob wonders why he has so many sweaters. In Malia’s interview, she says she doesn’t get it. The crew is scared of Hannah, but she’s not. Maybe the crew is supportive of Hannah, but I guess that’s not a possibility to Malia’s tiny mind. Malia says she’s learned not be intimidated by people who shouldn’t intimidate you. Her brothers taught her that. Bugs packs, and Alex sweeps the deck. Rob tells Jess the bottom bunk is too small to cuddle, so they move to the top bunk. In Jess’s interview, she says, it’s amusing that they’re a brand new couple, and technically living together. She doesn’t know about when she needs to use the bathroom. Tell him, get the hell out of the bedroom? She doesn’t like the pressure. She tells him the top will be the cuddle bed.

Tom cleans the galley. Hannah asks how he’s doing, and tells him if she can do anything, let her know. The crew goes to bed. Captain Sandy gets a text from Malia, saying she’s sorry she has to report this. Attached is a photo of a box that says Valium 5 mg.    

5 hours before charter. Captain Sandy asks first mate David to come to her office. She says she found this, showing him the text, and needs to know the protocol. She wants him be there. To be honest, it’s not perfect timing. She calls Hannah in, and says it’s been brought to her attention that Hannah has drugs on board.

There was no preview, because they probably didn’t want Malia to give the plot away – like she did with this one. Apparently, her Instagram post trying to justify her actions didn’t go as well as she thought it would on several levels.

🥕 What’s Up, Bugs…?

Looks like Alex is never going to get anywhere.

Below Deck’s Christine ‘Bugsy’ Drake Is ‘Anti-Boatmance’ but Likes Flirting With Alex Radcliffe

🐊 After a While, Crocodile…

My new weekly venture –  https://mupoentertainment.com/theresa-krakauskas/ – is due on Tuesday at noon, and I’m still editing. See you next time, and don’t forget to stay safe, stay easy-going, and stay out of other people’s business, especially when you don’t know the details.

Aug8

August 7, 2020 – Cyrus Wants To Be Dazzled, Familiar Face, Drugs On Deck, Brandi Is the Worst, Oh Brother, Peacock’s Potter, Aimee Talks, If You Like Anarchy, Go-Going, Quotes Tenfold & Hell

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What I Watched Today

(rambling, random thoughts & annoyingly detailed recaps from real time TV watching)

General Hospital

Maxie waits in an exam room. The nurse says the doctor will be a while, and Maxie says maybe she doesn’t need one. She needs a time machine, or a boyfriend who shoots blanks.

Peter meets Anna at the MetroCourt. He says he has a big favor to ask. She tells him not to worry; Finn isn’t a bachelor party type of guy, but Peter says, it’s the seating chart. Please tell him that he’s not sitting next to Robert.

At the hospital Finn shows Portia something he got from Violet on his phone, and says, kids are funny. She tells him, cherish the time. Kids fall out of love with their parents in the preteen years. Trina seems to be the exception.

Chase asks if Curtis found Jordan, but he says he asked her assistant, and she has no scheduled appointments. Is Chase sure she didn’t say anything else? Chase says Jordan wanted to talk to Jason, and sent him on his way.

Jordan asks Cyrus why she’s there, and he says to show he can count on her, for everyone’s sake. She says she arranged for his release, and he’s walking free. He says she got the job done, but needs to step up her performance and dazzle him. She says she has to be careful; there’s only so much she can do. He suggests she take the initiative, and show him how far she’s willing to go. He doesn’t lack problems, so pick one and solve it. Ha-ha! That sounds like me talking to my husband.

Sonny goes to the garage, and asks if Brando is working late. Brando says he’s just finishing up, and Sonny asks if business is good. Brando flashes back to Cyrus saying his car is fine; he’s there to discuss another matter. He tells Sonny that he just missed Jason.

Sam sees Peter and Anna, and asks Carly how Peter gets a free pass. He’s the guy who kept Drew and Jason prisoner for five years. Carly gathers he’s not Sam’s favorite guy.

Jason lies unconscious on the road, his motorcycle laying next to him.

Carly tells Sam, there are two reasons Peter gets a free pass – his mother and his girlfriend. Anna and Maxie believe in him, and nothing or no one is going to change their minds. Sam says Carly realizes Peter was exonerated, right? He’s responsible for Drew’s death, and it doesn’t make sense. He framed her when he broke Shiloh out of prison, and there he sits, basking in Anna’s appreciation. Carly agrees the hypocrisy is staggering. Robert approaches Anna and Peter’s table, and Anna wonders why he’s there. He says, it’s a work day, but she says she doesn’t think people would mind if he took time off. He supposes she’s referring to Holly. It would be nice if his closest friends would tell him what actually happened to her. Peter wants to leave them to their conversation, but Robert says, sit. He has questions, and he’ll start with this one. He shows Peter a tablet with an article on Holly; Holly Sutton: Death is Her Last Great Adventure. He asks why Peter is exploiting Holly’s death in this rag of his.

Maxie tells the nurse that she needs a pregnancy test. The nurse asks how late she is, and Maxie says, late. Speaking of late, she has a meeting she needs to get to for Deception. She says the nurse may have heard of it. It was huge in the 90s, and now it’s back. She should try their new moisturizer. It’s going to be a major seller once she locks down the distributor, which is what she should do now. She can do this later. She starts to leave, and says she knows it goes without saying, but the nurse isn’t going to talk to anyone about it, right? She can’t have this getting around. She runs into Lulu, who says, she can’t have what going around?

Sonny says, Jason is a customer? and Brando says Jason needed a stabilizer for his bike. Sonny says, Jason is family. Speaking of family, he’s there about a family matter. Brando asks if it’s Mike, and Sonny says he wanted Brando to know they’re getting close to the end.

Curtis asks Chase to run through what happened again. Chase says he stopped by the courthouse, and saw Jason, who said he was there to get permits. They suspect Jason was involved with a warehouse explosion on February 19th, but have zero evidence. He wanted to talk to Jason, but Jordan saw them, and said Jason could sue them for harassment, and sent him back to the station, while she stayed to chat with Jason. Curtis asks if he has any idea what they were talking about, and Chase says, maybe Cyrus. They have reason to believe Cyrus was behind the attacks on Sonny’s family, and Jason blew up the warehouse in retaliation. Maybe she was trying to Jason to finger Cyrus. Curtis thanks Chase for the information.

Jordan says she doesn’t want to climb the ranks of Cyrus’s rancid organization, and he says, like she once did? He tells her that she hates admitting it, but she enjoyed the power, prestige, and influence. She still does. That’s why she’s Commissioner. Jordan says she’s going along with him to keep people safe, but he says she’s not going along; she’s taking orders. She says she’ll do what she must, but she’s not part of his organization, and never has been. He appreciates her candor and says maybe she’ll appreciate some in return. The safety of those close to her is in direct proportion to him, and grows with each success. She says just tell what he needs now, and he says his philanthropic endeavors are being blocked; he needs a clear path. She says blocked by who, and he says their esteemed mayor. Take care of her.

Finn asks Portia if her daughter is a mommy’s girl, but Portia says, no; she’s a daddy’s girl through and through. Her father could do no wrong. She’s sure Violet will be the same way, and idolize her dad. Trina had difficulty with the revelation that Taggert framed Cyrus. She wishes she could do more to help, but Trina is shutting her out. Finn says, it’s tough, and she says she doesn’t mean to scare him. She doesn’t think he’ll have the same challenges with Violet, but Violet might have an issue with his fiancé. Finn says, Violet and Anna get along well, and Portia says, that’s good. She’s just saying the day may come when Violet resents Anna for not being her real mom. Finn says, that’s not Anna’s fault, and Portia says, no, but it’s something kids go through in their tween years. They need to blame someone for the missing parent, and mythologize the absent one. He says he knows about that, and hopes history doesn’t repeat itself.

Anna asks Robert if the article is inaccurate, and he says, it’s a hatchet job. He reads: Holly Sutton was known for her colorful past, and proclivity for wit, her ability to get in and out of Dodge, and being comfortable in dangerous situations. Anna says, it sounds like her, and Robert says, it sounds like an article about a woman they’re better off without. Peter apologizes for not consulting Robert, and says he’ll confer with the editor and they can revise the article. He leaves, and Robert asks what Anna thinks Peter is getting out of asking him to contribute. She calls him an idiot, and says Peter is trying to be his friend.

Maxie has a bandage on her arm, and the nurse says she’ll have the results soon. Lulu says they’ll both wait. Maxie wonders if she should call Peter, and let him know his star reporter is trolling the hospital instead of doing her job. Lulu says she’s researching a story on the hospitals finances, but maybe she should call Peter and tell him why she’s all up in Maxie’s business. Maxie tells her to go uncover some facts to report, but Lulu says, not until Maxie tells her something. If she thought she was pregnant, why not take a home test? Maxie says she took three, and Lulu asks if she got different results, but Maxie says they were all positive. Lulu asks if Maxie thought there was inconsistency in that. Maxie says the tests can be unreliable. It can happen, especially to her. She says, she’s totally pregnant, isn’t she?

Carly tells Sam, she understands Maxie is grieving. Peter was there, and only showed her what he wanted her to see. She’s a civilian, but Anna knows better. Sam says Carly is missing the point. Anna doesn’t want to know. She wants to think her son is a good man. Carly says she can empathize; Anna isn’t the first mom to convince herself her kid has changed. She hates that Peter kept Jason prisoner, but he was under Faison’s thumb, and that’s over. If Jason is willing to let it go, and Anna has hope that the bad stuff is behind him, what about Sam? Sam says, after what happened to Drew, Peter is still a threat. Why is Anna still protecting him?

Sonny tells Brando, his dad stopped eating. He’s at the point where he can’t even swallow anymore. Brando says he didn’t know that could happen with Alzheimer’s patients; he thought it was just a memory thing. Sonny says, so did he, at first. Brando asks what the options are, and Sonny says, a feeding tube. Brando says, that’s rough, and Sonny says, he considered it, but then he reconsidered. That’s not living, it’s existing, and he knows his dad wouldn’t want that. Brando asks if they talked about it, and Sonny says they didn’t get the chance, or maybe he didn’t want to go there. When he wanted to, it was too late, so he made the choice for his dad. He’s praying it’s the right one.

Jordan says Cyrus isn’t asking her to kill Laura, is he? He laughs, and asks what he’d do with a murdered mayor. Port Charles needs her, and he’s fond of her, but she’s getting in the way of him acquiring GH. Jordan says Laura is lobbying for Federal funding, and he says her daughter has a public platform. She asks why he doesn’t drop it, but he says, it’s too rich a prize to pass up, and they may never be this vulnerable again. Nelle is suing for unauthorized surgery on her son, and the insurance doesn’t want to cover it. If she wins, the hospital will be even more vulnerable, and it will be the perfect opening for him. Jordan says, Monica rallied the Quartermaines to give the hospital resources. The board will refuse him if they’re told he’s a known drug trafficker. There’s nothing she can do. He says he needs a champion to vouch for his character.

Curtis finds Jason, and asks if Jason can hear him. Jason doesn’t respond, so he calls 911, saying he needs paramedics on Harborview Drive at the Greenville turnoff. There’s a motorcycle rider down, and he’s completely unresponsive.

Jordan tells Curtis that she can’t offer her endorsement. How would it look? She has no business stepping outside her role. He says, but she can speak out for a man wrongly convicted. She discovered the miscarriage of justice, so who better to vouch for him? When she talks, Port Charles listens. She says Laura isn’t staying away indefinitely, and will wonder why she’s advocating for a man she despises. What good will it do for her to lose Laura’s trust and get fired? He says, good question. Make sure it doesn’t happen.

Portia says she hopes she didn’t offend Finn with her amateur psychology, and he says, no offense taken. She says she’s just projecting. She thinks Violet will be fine. She’s growing up with two attentive parents, and will be happy and well-adjusted. Finn says, in his humble opinion, he thinks Trina will be fine too. She has a loving, caring mother. Elizabeth joins them, and says a patient has been brought in who had an accident. He was unresponsive on arrival, and a head injury is possible. Finn asks if she’s okay, and Elizabeth says, it’s Jason.

Anna tells Robert that Peter tried. He knows how Robert feels about him. Does he think anything will change? He’s never given Peter a fair shake, and likes to look for excuses to hate him. Now he’s using Holly’s death. It’s pathetic. Robert says the only reason Peter wrote the article was to get under his skin. Anna says, which is looking thin. If Peter wanted to sensationalize or exploit Holly, he would have highlighted her past deeds. Robert says he’s not arguing, but a lot was left open to interpretation. She says, another reporter might have skewed the story, but Peter wrote it himself. Robert says Peter spun the story, and threw it in his face, and she says she guesses it’s easier to take his anger out on Peter, rather than deal with his feelings. Robert says, what feelings? and she says, grief, loss, anger, regret, pain. She could go on; she’s got all day.

Carly sees Peter at the bar, and asks how he’s enjoying his day. He says, it’s been trying, and she asks if there’s a problem with the service. He says, no, it’s fine, and she tells him to let her know if it’s otherwise. The Invader is an important tenant and she wants to give them her full attention. Peter says she’s thoughtful, and she says she prides herself in troubleshooting and avoiding problems. Sonny is the same way, but his way is more inflexible. Sam gets a call from Curtis, who tells her, Jason was in an accident; he’s on his way to GH. Carly really needs to stop making veiled threats to people about Sonny.

Brando says he doesn’t know about right or wrong decisions in situations like this, but he knows a bit about Mike. Things he learned the summer Mike spent in Connecticut. Sonny says he’d like to hear it, and Brando says, he was ten and crazy about horses. Mike would pick him up and take him to the track. The thoroughbreds were too valuable to have a kid around them, but there were working horses, and he spent his time with one horse in particular, Smoky. Smoky would see him coming, and come over. He knew Brando had an apple or carrot. One day at the end of summer, Mike picked him up and he knew something wasn’t right. Mike told him Smoky got hurt and wouldn’t recover. They went to say goodbye, and Brando tried, but he started crying and said he was ready to leave. Mike asked if he loved Smoky. He said he did, and Mike said, if you love something, you love it all the way to the end. (Yep. Here come the waterworks.) So he stayed, and the last thing Smoky heard before he was put down, was Brando saying he wasn’t going to hurt anymore. Lesson learned. Whatever choice Sonny makes for Mike, Mike will understand. Sonny says he appreciates Brando telling him, and Brando says, Mike is no stranger to making tough decisions. Sonny’s phone rings, and it’s Carly. She tells him that he needs to meet her at GH. Jason was in an accident. He says he’ll be right there, and tells Brando that he’s got to go. Brando says, Mike? but Sonny says, Jason. He leaves, and Brando looks stunned. I really appreciate them stomping on my heart about Mike and a horse.

Lulu says she takes it Maxie and Peter weren’t planning on this. Maxie says they haven’t been living together that long. They’ve never even had a conversation about having kids, and the only time marriage came up was when they were arguing with Spinelli. Lulu says, that’s a lot to unpack in one statement, and Maxie says she has no idea how she feels. Before they moved in together, Peter had a total crisis. He was confused, and afraid to be happy, but he moved in anyway, and lived through the fear. Lulu bets he would love to be married to Maxie and have kids. The family would be over the moon. Maxie says, Spinelli and Robert not so much. Lulu asks if she really cares what Spinelli thinks, and Maxie says, of course (🍷). Spinelli is Georgie’s father, but she doesn’t have to clear her decisions with him. Her feelings are complicated. Lulu asks if it’s because of Nathan, and Maxie says, she’s always thinking about Nathan, but this has nothing do with him. Lulu says, she and Peter are okay, right? Maxie says she loves him, and he loves her, and James and Georgie. They’re building a life. Lulu asks, what is it? Maxie can tell her. Maxie says, the timing couldn’t be worse. She feels selfish, but what if she’s not ready? What about her career?

Robert says he hates when Anna tells him what’s in his soul, and she say he does it to her, and she hates it more. Too bad. He’s bellyaching now because he knows she’s right. He’s afraid of his feelings, and he’s ashamed about not ending things properly with Holly. He says, rubbish, and she says she heard there’s a memorial service in England. Has he made plans to attend? He says, no, and she says she didn’t think so. He should go. It will give him a chance to say a proper goodbye, mourn Holly, and pay his respects. Robert asks why should he mourn an empty grave?

Jordan tells Cyrus. ELQ is capable of pulling GH back from the brink, but he says, they’re prone to infighting. The board will be open to an alternative donor, providing it’s someone in good standing with the community who they can trust. Build that trust. Chase calls, and asks if she’s okay; he’s had a hard time reaching her. She says she’s in the middle of something. Is there a problem? Chase says, Jason was in a motorcycle accident, and was just brought into GH. Jordan says she’s going back to the office, and tells Chase to head out to the accident site and get a full report. Cyrus says he knows she has to keep up appearances, but don’t misplace her priorities. She says she knows what her priorities are.  

Carly and Sam run into the hospital, and Sam tells the reception nurse that they’re looking for Jason. The nurse says, he’s being treated now, and Sam says she wants to see him. The nurse says Sam can’t, but she’ll relay the new information as soon as they have it, and Sam and Carly sit in the waiting area. Curtis arrives, and Sam asks, what happened? He says he spotted a rider down, but didn’t know it was Jason. He called 911, and waited until the paramedics got there. Sam thanks him, and he says he’ll go to the station and find out what he can. Elizabeth comes out, and says she was there when they brought Jason in; he was unconscious. There don’t seem to be any internal injuries, but they’re running a battery of tests to see if he’s had a traumatic brain injury.

Carly calls Diane, and tells her, they don’t know anything yet, but they’re running tests. She asks if Diane is sure the paperwork was filed, and asks her to put it in a PDF file and email it. She doesn’t want any problems. Elizabeth tells Sam that she can’t go in while the doctors are working on Jason. The best thing is to just wait. She’ll let them know if she hears anything. Peter comes by, and tries to say something to Sam, but Sam says, back off. Brando has joined them, and tells Peter, listen, but Carly says Jason wouldn’t want them going at each other. She tells Peter that he shouldn’t be there, and Peter says he didn’t mean to intrude; sorry. Elizabeth leaves to get an update, and Sonny gets off the elevator. He asks, what’s going on? How’s Jason? Carly says they don’t know, and no one is telling them anything.

Maxie says she’s sure this isn’t the first baby who’s misdirected a career move someone has been waiting forever to happen. There’s a lot at stake at the moment that she has to evaluate; it’s a big deal. She knows Nina would kill to be in her situation, and Lulu says, if Maxie has a baby, it should be because she wants to. It’s her body, and her priorities are her own. The nurse comes back holding a paper, and Maxie asks if those are the results.  

Anna says, now they get to the real issue; Robert’s fixation that Holly is still alive. He tells her that he didn’t say that, and she says, but he’s thinking it. He says he’s thinking a lot of things. What was Holly doing working for the WSB, why the ship went down, who was on the ship, and what happened to Holly’s body? Anna suggests he go get answers rather than feeling empty, and directing his pain at Peter. It’s not doing Holly or her memory any good. 

Cyrus’s main dude asks how the meeting with the Commissioner went. Cyrus says he gave her clarification of their respective positions. She wasn’t happy, but she’s going to comply. Dude asks if she should be on the guest list, and Cyrus says he’d be disappointed if she wasn’t. Dude asks how he should handle it, but Cyrus says he has confidence that Jordan will do what she’s asked – for the time being. He has a bigger target in mind. With Jason out of the way, there’s nothing left between Sonny and a bullet between the eyes.

Sonny says Brando told him Jason was just in the garage, and Brando says, Jason was there to pick up his bike. He’d just finished working on it.

Robert says Anna is insufferable, and she says, thank you. He always says that when she’s right. Who else would call him on it? He says, Holly, and Anna says, she’s not there; sorry. She thinks Holly would be appalled at his behavior. He needs to find another way of dealing with the pain before it eats him up. He’s going to RSVP to her wedding, and no is unacceptable. She leaves, and he looks at the article again.

Peter sees Lulu and Maxie, and tells them, Jason was in a motorcycle accident. Maxie says, poor Sam. He says he came to look for Lulu because he thought she could write the story. She says she doesn’t think she could be objective, and he says he’ll call the desk to send someone else. Maxie wants to check on Sam, but he tells her that they want to be left alone. What’s she doing there? Maxie doesn’t know what to say, and Lulu says, Nurses Ball stuff for Deception, and Maxie repeats, for Deception, leaving us with a double entendre.   

On the phone, Chase says he wants pictures right away. He wants to review them before he leaves. He also wants the site kept secure. He tells them not to let CSI touch anything until he gets there. The Commissioner wants him to deal with it personally. He receives a picture the road, with Jason’s overturned bike at the end of a skid mark. He says, none of this makes sense.

Curtis is waiting for Jordan outside her office, and she says, before he starts, she saw he called, but she was wrapping up something and couldn’t pick up. He says she has a lot of irons in the fire, and she says, now isn’t a good time either. He says, because of Jason? and she says, he heard? He tells her that he was the one who found Jason when he was out looking for her. Does she mind telling him where she’s been hiding?

Cyrus asks Dude, what’s in the bag? Dude says he thought Cyrus would like to celebrate, and pulls out a bottle of Jack. Cyrus says, the demise of Jason, and Sonny’s loss of his human fireball is cause for celebration. 

Portia says, the news is good. Nothing is broken, there’s no indication that Jason has internal injuries, and his vitals are strong. Sam asks if he’s still unconscious, and Finn says his pupils are good, but they need to rule out a possible TBI. He consulted with someone in neurology, and they recommended an immediate exploratory procedure. If Jason is hemorrhaging, the worst case is that he’s brain dad. Sonny says, that can’t happen, and Finn says Sam has to sign a consent form. Sam says, it’s not up to her, and Carly says she has power of attorney, and pulls out the confirmation. Elizabeth gives her the form, and she signs it, saying they’d better damn well save him. Everyone looks at each other, but Sonny looks hard at Brando.  

For what it’s worth (as they would say on GH), I don’t think it’s Brando. Way too easy.

On Monday, Franco says Elizabeth is planning on not going, Ava asks Nelle how she’s blackmailing Julian, and Sonny asks if Brando has something else to tell him.

🩺 But Does He Have a Name…?

I thought Dante’s doctor looked familiar.

Dr. Kirk on GENERAL HOSPITAL — Everything You Need to Know

🛥 Drugs Below Deck…

I kind of thought it was Hannah, and that it was her prescription, but the way this was handled was appalling. I checked out Malia’s Instagram, and fans are not happy. Apparently, she removed the text on the post in question, and disabled the comments. That didn’t stop anyone from commenting on the post. Malia’s excuse for outing Hannah was baloney, since when Captain Lee found out Kat was taking a prescription, there was none of this. Very disappointed in Captain Sandy and Malia.

https://www.realitytitbit.com/bravo/below-deck-med-drugs-on-board

https://www.the-sun.com/entertainment/1252075/drugs-below-deck-mediterranean-captain-prison/

🤯 Her Face Fillers Have Affected Her Brain…

I don’t even know what to say anymore. Whether or not Denise and Brandi hooked up, only they know, but, next to Jax, Brandi is the worst human being in the world. As Judge Milian from People’s Court says, I wouldn’t believe her if her tongue came notarized.

https://www.inquisitr.com/6206517/brandi-glanville-twitter-rhobh-cast-denise-affair/?platform=hootsuite

🏘 If You Must…

For those who insist on watching Big Brother. I find it hard to believe there are any new twists left in the world.

https://www.tvguide.com/news/big-brother-all-stars-recap/

https://www.tvguide.com/news/cbs-big-brother-all-stars-cast/

🦚 A New Peacock Feather…

Harry Potter joins the group.

https://www.tvguide.com/news/all-eight-harry-potter-movies-are-heading-to-peacock/

🎸 Finally Answered…

Although not much of a surprise. I figured she just didn’t want to live her teen/young adult years on TV.

https://people.com/tv/aimee-osbourne-explains-why-she-didnt-want-to-be-on-family-reality-show/

🏍 If You Liked Sons Of Anarchy…

Some alternative shows to watch. I have a friend in the UK who swears by Peaky Blinders, and I’m definitely down for Outsiders.

https://www.tvguide.com/news/shows-like-sons-of-anarchy-what-to-watch-next/

🏄‍♀️ You Go Go-Gos…

Take a go-go down Memory Lane.

https://ew.com/music/the-go-gos-trailer-for-showtime-documentary/

👩🏽‍🏫 Quotes of the Week

It takes 30 seconds to make an impression that last 30 years. – Loren Brovarnik quoting her father, Pillow Talk: 90 Day Fiancé  

Nothing is impossible, the word itself says ‘I’m possible’! – Audrey Hepburn

A friend is someone who knows all about you and still loves you. – Elbert Hubbard

Be the change that you wish to see in the world. – Mahatma Gandhi

Without music, life would be a mistake. – Friedrich Nietzsche

I call her BF, which doesn’t stand for best friend. It stands for bitch face. – woman whose sister slept with her boyfriend on Dr. Phil

When two opposite points of view are expressed with equal intensity, the truth does not necessarily lie exactly halfway between them. It is possible for one side to be simply wrong. – Richard Dawkins

The man who insists on seeing with perfect clearness before he decides, never decides. – Henri-Frédéric Amiel

I learned…that inspiration does not come like a bolt, nor is it kinetic, energetic striving, but it comes into us slowly and quietly and all the time, though we must regularly and every day give it a little chance to start flowing, prime it with a little solitude and idleness. – Brenda Ueland (I’m all for solitude & idleness.)

Path-walker, your footprints and nothing else are the path; Path-walker, there is no path, the path is formed as you move.  – Antonio Machado, Caminante, no hay Comino

😱 Drag Me To Hell…

Is it A) the name of a horror film, or B) the title for my week. It’s Friday, so moving on. I hope. For now, stay safe, stay diverse, and stay enjoying life no matter what the circumstances.

Aug7

August 6, 2020 – Sam Thanks Carly, Temp Brook, Another Camel Ride, Return Of the Pirate & Climbing

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What I Watched Today

(rambling, random thoughts & annoyingly detailed recaps from real time TV watching)

General Hospital

At the WSB facility in Geneva, Dante does push-ups while remembering his mission. Complete the mission plays in his head.

Lulu tells Brando to text her when her car is ready, but he says it was just a flat, and it’s finished. She tells him that she got a lead on a story, and didn’t even realize she had a flat. She’s glad his garage is there. Cyrus walks in and says, that makes two of them.

Lucy looks over Sasha’s photos, and loves them. She asks what Maxie’s secret is, and Maxie says, fear of failure and a good photographer. She asks which photo Lucy is going with, and Lucy pulls one out. Sasha asks if it’s weird to like her own picture. Maxie and Lucy both say, no! and Sasha says she likes it too. Valentin asks if he gets a vote.

Curtis goes to the hospital to take TJ to lunch, and TJ apologizes, saying he should have texted; they have to postpone. Curtis asks if TJ is supposed to live at the hospital, and TJ tells him it’s an unwritten rule for med students. Curtis says it’s the only place he gets to see TJ, and TJ says it’s the only place Molly gets to see him too. He did take off last night so they could be together though.

At the MetroCourt, Sam wants to talk to Carly about Jason’s power of attorney. Carly says Jason is her best friend, so of course (🍷) she said yes, but she doesn’t want to get in the middle of them. Sam says she wants to thank Carly.

Chase finds Jason outside the courtroom, and asks why he’s there. Jason says he’s picking up some permits, and Chase asks if he doesn’t have an assistant for that, but Jason says he wanted to follow-up in person. Chase says Jason saved him a call. He doesn’t have to answer, but at the risk of repeating himself, where was Jason on the night of February 19th when the warehouse exploded? Jason says he’s not saying anything without his attorney present, which is never a surprise to anyone. Chase says, he’s not asking in an official capacity, but he can. Jordan walks in, and asks what Chase is doing.   

Dante looks at the pencil and paper. He gets up from the floor, picks up pencil, and puts it down again. A doctor comes in, and asks if Dante doesn’t take a day off, and Dante says, it’s something to do. The doctor says they have activities if he’s bored, but Dante says he’s good. He likes it. The doctor says he’s concerned about Dante. What does Dante think the WSB will say when they find out he refuses to engage in therapy? Dante says, nothing good, and the doctor says, they’re patient, but not indulgent. They’ll decide Dante is a lost cause, and consign him to the doctor’s care for the rest of his life. Dante says he’s fine with that.

TJ tells Curtis, last night was about putting Molly first, and reconnecting. Curtis says TJ has had a lot to deal with. TJ says, first, he was abducted, his abduction was never solved, and now he’s at the hospital full time. Curtis asks if he has to be, and TJ admits he doesn’t. Curtis says TJ didn’t just get abducted, he was injured; he’s still doing physical therapy. TJ says the hospital offered to accommodate him, but he turned them down.   

Brando tells Cyrus, he’ll just be a minute, and Cyrus says, of course (🍷); the mayor’s daughter takes precedence. Lulu tells Brando, this is Cyrus Renault. He may have heard of Cyrus. He just came out of doing hard time. Cyrus says, for a crime he didn’t commit. Lulu says he was involved with the shooting where Brando and her mom got hurt. Cyrus says his connection is unfounded; he was in prison. He hopes the needless violence is a thing of the past, with Laura and the Commissioner at the helm. If anyone can keep the peace, they can.  

Lucy says Valentin’s opinion is welcome, and Maxie asks, since when? Lucy says they couldn’t have relaunched Deception if Valentin hadn’t invested, but Maxie thinks that’s a stretch. Valentin says he doesn’t need gratitude; he needs collaboration. Maxie says she thought he was a silent partner, and he says he may not know about beauty and skincare, but he knows a good business move. The face of Deception needs a voice, and he’s found the perfect one. Lucy says, do tell, and he says he’s introducing Deception’s new voice. Brook comes in.

Carly asks if Sam is sure she’s okay with this, and she says she is, but when Jason told her, she was surprised. Carly imagines she must have been angry too, but Jason did it to spare her from being the one responsible, if the day came when he was unable to make his own decisions. He made it clear, he’d want to die, but didn’t want Sam to have to make that choice. Sam says she went home and did some thinking. She thought about the children, and what happened when she thought Jason died before. It would be worse for them to lose her. They love him, but she’s the parent they know and live with. They need their mom.

Jordan says she needs a word with Chase, but asks Jason to stick around. She takes Chase aside, and tells him that she’s doing him an enormous favor, before Jason’s barracuda of a lawyer barges in. Chase says they have reason to believe Cyrus was linked to the warehouse, and Jason blew it up in retaliation. She says there’s no evidence, and he’s becoming carelessly close to losing objectivity. She’ll take it from here. The last thing they want is a lawsuit. Chase leaves, and Jordan says she’d appreciate it if Jason didn’t unleash Diane; Chase was just doing his job. Jason says he knows. They’re on the same side on this, and he’d like to keep it that way.

Dante tells the doctor, he turned himself in because he can’t control his actions. When and if he picks up a weapon, who will be his target? It makes him dangerous. The doctor says Dante was traumatized by his indoctrination, and suffered a near-crippling physical injury. Dante says, the doctor read his file. The last time he had a visitor, he freaked out, and hurt a guard. It’s better to safeguard him in this facility. The doctor says it’s not the staff he’s worried about.

Cyrus tells Lulu to give her mother his regards. The hospital is fortunate to have her support. Lulu says, not just hers. The Quartermaines have supported GH for years to help it remain independent, and they’ll continue to support it. Cyrus says, that’s wonderful news. He wants to make sure the hospital is financially sound, and patients remain confident. That’s why he’s having a conversation with the board later. She says, he’s meeting with the board? and Cyrus says he’s sure they’ll find another use for his good intentions. Lulu thanks Brando, and leaves. Brando asks what’s the problem with Cyrus’s car? but Cyrus says his car is fine. He’s there to discuss another matter. 

Valentin says Brook is going to write and perform a tune synonymous with the brand, and Maxie says, like a jingle? Valentin says, if she wants to call it that, and Maxie says she doesn’t like jingles. Brook says she doesn’t either, but Sasha says, it’s not a bad idea. Lucy says she would have preferred someone like Lady Gaga, but this is the next best thing. Maxie says ELQ is having nothing to do with the company.   

Sam says, holding the family together is Carly’s top propriety, and the children. Carly says, it wasn’t always that way. When Michael was a baby, she never stayed out of anything, but as time went on, she saw that her kids needed to depend on her. She stands by Sonny, but only to a point. There’s nothing more important than being a mom. She can’t afford the luxury of being arrested or shot at; she’s working on the second one. The kids suffer when she’s not around, and she has to put them first. She had to take a step back against her instincts. Sam says, she wanted to go in swinging? and Carly says, when Donna was born, she knew this little baby was 100% dependent on her, and had every right to expect all her time and devotion. There was no option of running headfirst into danger. Sam says she wishes they’d had this conversation before she decided to go after Shiloh.

Jordan tells Jason that she threw her partners under the bus for Cyrus, but he says she did it for TJ. She says Cyrus’s sentence was vacated, and now, he not only operates with impunity, he has leverage; threatening her loved ones, and having knowledge of the crap she’s already done. She sees no way of getting out from under his thumb. Jason says, it will happen, and she asks, when? She doesn’t know how much more she can take. How much more damage she can stand by and let this man cause.

TJ tells Curtis that he wants no special treatment. If he can’t handle adversity, he’s not much of a doctor. Curtis says, if TJ burns out, he’ll be no good to anyone. He’s been there. TJ says he’s driven to be the best, passionate about his job, and loves helping people, and Curtis says, that’s how he was when he was a cop. He lived and breathed his job until it consumed him. He’s trying to prevent that happening to TJ.

Lucy tells Maxie not to be hasty, and Maxie says she’s not hasty. She doesn’t think it’s a smart business move. Brook says Maxie is predictable. Maxie knows it’s a smart decision because she’s a smart businesswoman. Having music synonymous with the brand makes sense. She’s just hesitating because of her BFF Lulu, who judges them from her lofty pedestal, since they’re not up to her standards. The simple fact is, Brook sees through Lulu, and Lulu can’t stand it. Maxie admits Lulu is less than perfect, but Lulu is still her friend. Brook says, that’s her choice, if she likes constant judgement, but don’t stand in the way of the rest of them. Maxie says Brook has one thing right – Lulu is her friend.

Sam tells Carly, she was focused on taking out Shiloh, and saving Kristina. Carly says, Kristina is her sister; her intention were admirable, but Sam says if she’s being honest, she was getting back to herself, if that makes sense. Carly says, who she was before she had kids? Sam says, she ran con after con then, and she wanted to do the things she did well. She got so caught up in it, she didn’t think about the consequences, and how she could make things worse for her kids.   

Jason tells Jordan, the question she needs to ask is, what good it would do to fight back without leverage? She says, so they wait while the drugs pile up? Jason says, Cyrus can’t afford to break his truce with Sonny. He’s going to pretend to be an upstanding citizen while laying the groundwork to push Sonny out. As long as she plays along, she’ll have the option to bring Cyrus down.

Maxie says Valentin and Brook are acting righteous, and like Lulu is the problem, when Brook’s been flirting with Lulu’s boyfriend, using her old pet nickname for him. While they’re off collaborating, and bringing up the good old days, didn’t Brook think it would trigger Lulu after what she tried to do with Dante? Brook says, the husband Lulu dropped like a hot rock when he got sick? Lucy says Lulu has flaws; they all do. Maxie says, some more than others. She refuses to apologize for being considerate of her best friend. Lucy drags Maxie out into the hall, and Sasha says, that went well. Lucy asks Maxie, what on earth is wrong with her, reacting without thinking; why? Maxie says, Deception is her baby, and Lucy says, excuse me? Maxie says, yes, it was Lucy’s first, but Lucy brought her in and gave her a piece of the action. She’s never had that. She loved Crimson, but it wasn’t hers. She brought her talent and creativity, but the editor had the final say, and the publisher reaped the rewards. Deception is theirs about to be a reality, and she feels something momentous is going to happen. Lucy says she understands, but Maxie has to get ahold of herself or Deception will be over before it starts.

Sam tells Carly, the worst part was the kids missing her when she was in prison. Danny was trying to be brave, but underneath, he was scared, and Scout was just confused. She didn’t get why Sam was staying away. Carly says, thank God for Jason, and Sam says, it was a huge comfort. He was there for them, and the Quartermaines, and Carly. Carly says, it’s no substitute for a mother, and Sam says she was supposed to be there, but she wasn’t; she was on parole. It’s been frustrating, and a huge obstacle in her life, but not like she’s used to. She feels like she’s in quicksand. Carly understands, but since Sam brought it up, what happened with her parole officer?

Curtis tells TJ, not to be all Zen master, but life is about balance. You need to make a place for yourself and your loved ones first. If you don’t, they could slip away one dark night. You’ll look in the mirror, and your job is all you have. TJ says Curtis needs to have that conversation with his mom; she’s out of balance with work. Feel free to play the mom guilt card. Curtis asks, how? and TJ says he just called to check in. Jordan didn’t answer, but no call back and no text. Six months ago, that never would have happened, but it’s happening more and more lately. Curtis says he thinks he can use that – for Jordan’s own good. He thanks TJ for the ammo, and leaves.

Jordan says, so Jason is suggesting she go undercover as a corrupt Police Commissioner, which is true, but he wants her to use it to her advantage. Jason says, the more Cyrus thinks he has control, the more likely he is to make a mistake. Eventually, he’ll make one that gets him eliminated, but she won’t be involved. Jordan’s phone rings. It’s Cyrus, reminding her of her appointment to meet him at his new residence. Don’t be late. Jason asks if everything is okay, and Jordan says Cyrus wants her to meet him at his new home. Jason asks if she’s going, and she says he just made an excellent case as to why she has to. Jason says maybe he’ll take a ride out there, and she says, if he does, that would be his prerogative. She’s done her research, and has a good idea of how he came to work for Sonny. He survived an accident, and had cognitive issues. He was looking for a mentor, Sonny was there, and it worked well for him. Too bad. He’d make an excellent cop. Jason says he’ll try not be offended.

The doctor asks if Dante had the dream again, and Dante says he has it every night. Sometimes, he has it when he’s awake. He thinks about what he’s done to his wife – his ex-wife. He could hurt her, and if he stayed in Port Charles, she’d never stop thinking that one day he could recover, unless she faced what happened. The alternative is living there. 

Lucy comes back with Maxie, and says, after a spirited conversation with her wonderful partner, she has something to tell them. Maxie says, fine. She’ll work with the two of them, but not while Brook has that smug smile and makes snarky comments about Lulu. Brook tells Maxie, she has nothing bad to say about Lulu; Lulu speaks for herself. Valentin asks if they’re back in business, and Maxie says, yes. Lucy welcomes Brook to the Deception family, and Brook says she’s super excited to be there. Lucy says, on that note, she’s going to skedaddle out of there. The Nurses Ball isn’t going to organize itself. Ta! Maxie follows her out, saying she wants a word with Lucy. Valentin tells Brook, they did it, and she says, they sure did. Does he want to have a celebratory drink? He says he’ll meet her upstairs. After she leaves, Valentin thanks Sasha for her support. Sasha says she didn’t say much, and he says she didn’t say no. How is she? She says she’s trying to throw herself into the life she has left, and he says, her work? He does that. Unfortunately, no amount of success will fill the void Nina left. Maybe she’ll have more luck.

Sam tells Carly that she was trying get leverage over her parole officer; something she could use to get Delores to back away. So Spinelli tailed her. They good news was, she was having an affair; the bad news was, she caught Spinelli getting blackmail photos. Delores told Spinelli if anyone found out about the affair, she’d throw him in jail. Now Delores hates her more than ever, and Delores controls her more than ever. She can’t believe she took that kind of risk. She says Carly can laugh if she wants, but Carly asks if anyone ever told Sam how she and Sonny got married the first time. Sam doesn’t think so, and Carly says she wanted to help Sonny, so she disguised herself, wore a wire, and went after an enemy of Sonny’s. Sonny busted in where she was, and wanted a meeting. She was the only material witness in a racketeering charge, and the only way to stop them calling her to testify… Sam says, was to marry him. Carly says, wives can’t be forced to testify against their husbands. She helped, but not in the way she thought she would. Sonny married her five times, so she must have done something right. The marriage was the best thing to happen to her. Sam says, some things work out for the best in ways they never anticipated.  

Jason goes to the garage, and asks Brando if the stabilizer came in. Brando knows Jason wanted to put it in himself, and says he hopes he didn’t overstep, but he enjoys working on Harleys, and did the installation. Jason asks what he owes Brando, and Brando says, nothing. Jason already paid for the stabilizer, and the work is free. Jason says he won’t stay in business long that way, and Brando says, it’s a nice bike. He was glad to work on it. Jason says, you’re welcome. Brando says he had two visitors today. Lulu had a flat tire, and Cyrus showed up. He made a point to mention Lulu’s mother to her, and there was a weird vibe. Jason asks, who left first? and Brando says, Lulu. Jason says, if Cyrus comes back, he wants to know. Brando says, he will.

Curtis goes to the PCPD, and asks Chase if Jordan is back. Chase says, no. The last time he saw her she was at the courthouse, talking to Jason. He’d been questioning Jason about a case, and she stepped in. She asked Jason to wait, but he’s not sure what that was about. Curtis says he’ll track her down, and thanks Chase. Chase leaves, and Curtis takes out his phone.

Cyrus wanders around his new place. Jordan arrives, and he says, right on time; he’s pleased. Jordan says his guard frisked her, and he says, that’s the way of the world now. If only it was like when they first met, but then it wasn’t the way it seemed then either. She tells him to make it quick. He wants her help to get control of GH. He says he hasn’t told her how, and she says, he didn’t say why either. What does a man like him want with the hospital?

At the hospital, Maxie tells the reception nurse that she doesn’t have an appointment, but she’d like to see her OB/GYN. Lucy runs into Lulu, who says she’s there to interview some board members about  GH’s finances. Lucy says she hopes Lulu realizes what an amazing, loyal friend Maxie is. Lulu says, Maxie is the best, and Lucy says, Maxie nearly jeopardized the launch of Deception defending Lulu against some admittedly snarky remarks. Lulu says, by who? Don’t tell her. Brook said something about Dante. Lucy says, his name was brought up, and Lulu says, unbelievable. Brook is constantly throwing Dante in her face, when she knows nothing about the end of their marriage. Obviously, it gets to her more than she’d care to admit. Lucy says, if it helps, Maxie had her back, and Lulu says, it does help. Lucy says she didn’t know Dante all that well, but she can say with confidence, he’d want Lulu to be happy – whatever that means to her.

The doctor says he can help Dante get better, but he has to trust the process. Dante says he can’t risk it. He has a ticking time bomb in his head. The doctor has seen it go off, and Dante never wants anyone to see it again. This way, they’ll be safer. The doctor refuses to give up hope, and says Dante hasn’t given up on himself. Why else would he keep a pad and pencil. There must be someone he wishes to reach out to after all. Dante flashes back to Lulu telling him that she’ll wait forever; it’s no life without him there. He remembers saying goodbye, telling her that he loves her, and walking out. Dante says if the pencil and pad is causing the doctor to have false expectations, take it out of there. The doctor says he’s leaving it. He sincerely hopes Dante changes his mind before it’s too late.  

Chase sees Sasha outside the courtroom. She says she was hoping to run into him. Has he heard anything? He says he hasn’t, and Sasha says imagine if they broke their hearts for nothing. Chase says, as crappy as it sounds, it helps on some level to know she’s as miserable as he is. They really did this for the right reason, but it’s easy to forget. Sasha agrees, and Chase says he knows Michael and Willow are the best parents for Wiley. Sasha says, if they found a way to prove it to the judge, it will have worked, so it will be worth it. I’m thinking, Sasha is high. She just has that vibe.

Curtis calls Jordan, but she doesn’t pick up.  

Cyrus tells Jordan, he’s demonstrated that he’s a good person. Jordan says, he’s not; he’s a drug trafficker. He says the board will learn that he deserves grace, and the best insurance policy was a friend in law enforcement. That’s why they’re going to spend time together. Jordan tells him, he finally said it. He called because he can, and she showed up. He says she has a gift of seeing to the heart of the matter.

Brook and Valentin sit at a table in the MetroCourt. She says, if they’re going to work together, she needs to know one thing. Will he be as good for ELQ as he is for her? He says, even better.

Sam tells Carly that she doesn’t want to ever struggle with those questions. God forbid the worst happens, she doesn’t want to tell Danny she chose to let his dad die. Carly is glad Sam sees it that way, and Sam says she’s glad Jason chose Carly. Carly says, don’t worry, and Sam says, there’s nothing to worry about. Nothing is going to happen to Jason.

Jason lies on the road, unconscious, his bike laying next to him.

Tomorrow, Robert is sure he’ll find an empty grave, Carly wants Peter’s full attention, Sonny knows Mike is close to the end, and Cyrus tells Jordan to make sure something doesn’t happen.  

🎤 Filling In…

For a while, Brook will be a different Brook. Who’s next? Carly? What’s Tamara Braun doing these days? Might as well make it totally confusing.

Briana Lane Is the New Brook Lynn on GENERAL HOSPITAL

The Real Housewives of New York City

LuAnn says Leah can’t do this in front of other people, and Leah asks if LuAnn means lifting her skirt up so they could see her bodysuit. In Leah’s interview, she can’t believe anyone would think she’d purposely show her vagina to Ramona’s friends. It’s disgusting. She says, Ramona needs to keep my vagina out of her mouth. LuAnn wonders what Sonja’s drink tastes like, and takes a sip. She makes a face, and says she has no idea what it is, but it’s disgusting. Dorinda tells them that she got Sonja to bed. Now she’s going to see where Ramona is. LuAnn says, okay, Mama Dee.

Dorinda finds Ramona on an outside lounge chair, and asks if she’s okay. Ramona says, Sonja is a mess. Dorinda has been a mess. Dorinda says she hasn’t, but Ramona has, and she’s put Ramona to bed. Ramona tells her not to scream (she wasn’t). She can’t be around them anymore. She gets up, and tells Dorinda, drink some water. In Ramona’s interview, she says whenever Dorinda hears something she doesn’t like, she deflects. She’s full of sh*t. Ramona says Leah, Dorinda, and Sonja should go to AA. Dorinda says Ramona should be ashamed. She came to talk as a friend. She goes back to the table, and tells LuAnn and Leah that Ramona told her that she was drunk, when strangely, she’s not. She told Dorinda to go to AA. In LuAnn’s interview, she says, there’s a difference between being concerned, and telling someone to go to AA. It’s totally patronizing, and to say that to Dorinda is a low blow. Dorinda says Ramona also accused her of being drunk at the Halloween party. We flash back to that, and Dorinda tells them, you don’t say that to a friend. LuAnn says she’s been to AA, and she wouldn’t say that. She’s known Dorinda for twenty years, and would never say she’s a drunk. Dorinda says, not tonight. In her interview, LuAnn says she’s not touching that with a ten-foot pole. Ramona should know if you play with fire, you’ll get burned. Dorinda asks for another drink.  

LuAnn finds Ramona, still lounging, and drinking water. Ramona says she’s the only one who’s straight, and LuAnn says she knows how Dorinda gets, and told her to go to AA. Ramona says she thinks Dorinda drinks too much. In LuAnn’s interview, she says, stop name calling. Tell Sonja that she has a problem, and Dorinda had to put her to bed. Back at the table, Dorinda starts to cry, and says Ramona hurt her feelings. Leah says, don’t let her; it’s not worth it. LuAnn tells Ramona, they’re serving tequila. Ramona says Dorinda has a problem, and doesn’t want to admit it, but Sonja has a problem too. And Leah. Ramona says she doesn’t want to drink anymore. LuAnn says Ramona claimed Leah was on medication, and she’s fine. Ramona says Leah had a problem before, and Dorinda plays holier than thou. Ramona admits she’s not perfect, but Dorinda is bitter and angry. LuAnn says they’ve seen it before, and Ramona says the two of them are normal in comparison to everyone there; it’s scary. In her interview, LuAnn says, normal is not a word that comes to mind when she thinks of Ramona. Ramona says she’s going to bed. At the table, Leah says she wants to enjoy the trip, and Dorinda says she’s afraid to be judged. Leah says Ramona crossed the line, saying she was on medication. In Dorinda’s interview, she says she wants to tell Leah not to pay attention, but at the same time she’d be pissed. LuAnn comes back, and asks, what’s happening? and Dorinda says her feelings are hurt. LuAnn says, it’s been a long day, and they can’t be trying to make it right. Leah asks, what happened? and Dorinda wonders if LuAnn asked Ramona about judging her on her drinking. LuAnn went to jail. Ramona doesn’t judge her, and LuAnn almost went back to jail again when she broke parole. In her interview, LuAnn says, it was literally fifteen minutes ago when Dorinda said you don’t shame a friend. It’s hypocritical. We flash back to Dorinda shaming LuAnn a few times, and LuAnn says, since she’s locked up with Dorinda, she’s going to make it nice. For the moment. Dorinda says Ramona accused her under false pretenses. She didn’t go to jail or break probation, and LuAnn tells her, this isn’t nice. Why is Dorinda getting angry at her? Don’t kill the messenger. In her interview, Dorinda says she can’t have a conversation with Ramona. She deflects, and it’s your fault; you’re the problem. She doesn’t need this bitch to tell her where she is on her journey. Dorinda says, Ramona is the one who comes home at 4 am, and LuAnn tells her, like her mother said, nothing good happens after midnight.

Leah uses a roller on her face, and calls her sister Sarah. Dorinda comes into Leah’s room, and Leah asks if Dorinda remembers what she said to LuAnn. Dorinda says LuAnn was the one who went to jail, so don’t be endorsing what Ramona said. Leah says LuAnn was just the messenger, and just telling her what Ramona said. Dorinda tells her, LuAnn has said it in the past. She wasn’t drunk then, and she wasn’t drunk last night. She only had three spritzers. That’s like when the defendant says they only had a couple of beers on People’s Court, and you know they had a whole case. In Leah’s interview, she says she was the most sober last night, and LuAnn said nothing like that. Dorinda can’t be wrong ever, but she’s wrong. Dorinda says she’s not letting this turn into something about her; it’s deflection. Ramona was saying she should go to AA. Leah says she doesn’t want to talk about AA on this trip. She actually went there.

Sonja tosses her shoes into a pile. Ramona comes in, saying, it’s a gorgeous day. Sonja says she went to take one of her water pills, and she googled it. It’s also called a drunken sailor pill. It dehydrates you, and if you drink, makes it worse. Ramona says she doesn’t care what medication someone is on. If you take alcohol with it, the medication makes it worse. In her interview, she wonders what Sonja was thinking, and tells Sonja that she doesn’t need them. In Sonja’s interview, she says, of course she was walking like a drunken sailor. It said the pill was a diarrhetic. Ramona says, at dinner, it got uncomfortable. She wants a one-on-one with Leah. Sonja says, Leah didn’t do anything, and Ramona says she needed to feel out her feelings. What?

LuAnn works out on a treadmill, while Leah does free weights. She asks Leah how it went, and Leah says she told Dorinda that LuAnn was just relaying what Ramona said. Ramona is deflecting from the real situation. LuAnn says it’s not about Ramona; it’s about her. Dorinda can be mad at Ramona, but don’t it take out on her. Leah says, it needs to be nipped in the bud. In LuAnn’s interview, she says she wants Dorinda to understand she’s hurt. It’s a sore subject, and she’s got to get to Dorinda at the right time, in the right place. When she’s not drinking. They talk about their upcoming camel ride. In LuAnn’s  She hasn’t been on a camel since the hiccup in Marrakech. She’s scared, but she’s getting back on that hump. Leah doesn’t want to be in the sun LuAnn sees Ramona and Sonja in the kitchen, and Ramona says, it’s a new day; it’s like nothing happened. The chef is making omelets, and LuAnn says, they’re in Mexico, and have to have huevos rancheros. LuAnn tells Ramona let thing with Leah go; there’s another issue with Dorinda. After Ramona left, Dorinda called LuAnn out, saying she’s the one who went to jail, and tried to make her ashamed of herself, like she didn’t suffer enough. She doesn’t think Dorinda remembers. She knows it’s not about her, but it’s still hurtful. Ramona says, it’s an anger management problem, and in her interview, she says, Dorinda doesn’t realize how much she’s hurting her friends. We flash back to Dorinda’s nastier moments. Ramona says, when Dorinda drinks, her anger accelerates; anger plus drinking equals a really mean Dorinda.

Leah joins them, and Ramona eyeballs her. She sidles over, and says when Leah’s ready, she’d love to have a conversation. Leah suggests they do it now, and they go outside to sit. In Ramona’s interview, she says she’s not going to change Leah, and doesn’t want to harbor anger. It’s time they moved on. Ramona says she thinks she holds Leah to a higher bar. She believes in Leah as a person, and sees she has potential. There’s a side she adores, but one there’s one she doesn’t. She talked to Leah about the party, and had asked her to put her 30 year old self away, and be more demure, so she was hurt and disappointed. Those are her feelings. Leah says, feelings aren’t facts. She wants to know what she did. Ramona must have been angry to talk about mental health issues. Ramona apologizes (yawn), saying she’s sorry she made Leah uncomfortable, and that she let her feelings and expectations color things. Leah suggests they go forward, and says when it comes to the perception of Ramona’s friends, who gives a sh*t? Ramona says she let her own head get in the way. In Leah’s interview, she says Ramona knows she’s wrong deep down, and won’t admit it, but she’s not wasting her energy and time dragging it out of her. She’s letting it go. Leah says, let’s eat, have fun, and enjoy the day. Ramona admits she made a mountain out of a molehill.

Ramona says, it’s a new day; they should all celebrate. Dorinda says, she doesn’t care about last night. She wants to put it behind her and have fun. Sonja threw out pill explains that her water pills are also called drunken syndrome sailor because they exacerbate the effects of drinking. In her interview, Dorinda says she just wants Sonja to be happy, and have no more of these episodes. It worries her. Leah says they’re doing a reset, and LuAnn is thrilled with her attitude. In her interview, LuAnn says Dorinda can try to sweep things under the rug, but they’re still there. They’re not under the rug .Leah goes to take a shower. LuAnn asks if they’re wearing bathing suits under their clothes for the camel ride. Dorinda says they have a cabana on the beach for afterward. In Dorinda’s interview, she says, today is about Mexico, not about what happened yesterday. She doesn’t care. LuAnn tells Dorinda that she talked to Ramona, and Dorinda says she’s over it. LuAnn says, Ramona should let it go, and Dorinda says Ramona listens to LuAnn. Leah is a nice girl. They’re all different, and that’s what makes it good.

They get in limo, and Sonja says her stomach is sloshing. Ramona is worried that Sonja has gas, but Sonja says, it’s a different thing. Dorinda is excited about tonight. She heard the food at the restaurant is delish. It’s a nice place, and they can dress up. Ramona says, they can be festive. In Dorinda’s interview, she says Sonja doesn’t realize, they’re not going on a local outing. They’re celebrating Sonja’s birthday. Drinking, dancing, and laughter; she deserves it. The limo stops at Moroma Beach, and they get out. In her interview, Leah says she’s had a camel ride before, and didn’t feel the need to do it again, but since the others want to, let’s do it. LuAnn says she’s having flashbacks, and we see a flashback of LuAnn being bounced around by a camel. Dorinda wants the one that’s lying down. Leah says she has a camel toe right now, and it’s killing her. Dorinda tells the guide, it’s not Leah’s first time, and asks if they have to date them a little first. When Sonja sees Ramona’s shorts, she tells Ramona, no more macramé. They get on the camels, and the guide tells them to hold on and lean back. Leah says, Dorinda is a natural, and Dorinda says she’s ridden a camel or two in her day. In Dorinda’s interview, she says this is nothing compared to the beasts she’s ridden. She even married a few. Ramona refuses to ride. After she saw LuAnn in Morocco, she said never again. Ramona takes pictures, and Sonja says, she doesn’t want the feisty one. In Sonja’s interview, she says, she and camels just don’t go together. She’s getting on a camel that doesn’t seem to want to know her. Sonja calls for someone to take her down. She’s sweating, nervous, and going to fall. Leah warns her that the camel senses her energy. Dorinda is proud of LuAnn for getting back on the hump. LuAnn says, it feels good.  

Sonja screams she’s getting off. Dorinda is happy, and likes it. Leah says, time to get off, and jumps down. Even though these are very tall camels, and at least six feet. She says she’s not screwing around. LuAnn says they’ve lost a couple. In her interview, Leah says she thought camel riding was something you do in Dubai, not Mexico. Never again. Ramona, Sonja, and Leah head for the beach. Leah says she’s all about getting out of situations; she’s not waiting for help. Dorinda is camel proud, and says Ramona is being snobbish. Sonja tells Ramona, they got ones the others didn’t want to be on. In LuAnn’s interview, she says she got back the on hump, and lived to tell the story. She fist bumps the camera. Dorinda suggests they go to the cabana.  

The cabana is beautiful; sort of like a round wooden birdcage. Inside, there’s an exquisitely set table waiting for them. Sonja says the camels are behind her. Look at the gorgeous table, flowers, and view. That’s what she’s here for. She says LuAnn looks like a Bond girl, and she does. They have lunch, and the salad is served in bottles that have been halved. LuAnn wants to talk to Dorinda, and in her interview, she says the camel ride was a good bonding experience for her and Dorinda. It’s a good moment for them to talk. She’s nervous, but needs to do it, and Dorinda is open to it. LuAnn says she doesn’t know if Dorinda remembers what she said last night. You can see by Dorinda’s body language that she’s immediately defensive, and she tells LuAnn, stop. She had three spritzers. Honestly, I always wonder if these women know they’re being recorded. She might have had three spritzers, but that was in addition to tequila and God knows what else. They’re not talking about her drinking. LuAnn says Dorinda brought it up. Ramona is still upset about Halloween. Dorinda says LuAnn made a comment that she’d gotten drunk in the past. Come on now. Is she saying she’s never been drunk? Again, does she know we’re watching her life on TV? In LuAnn’s interview, she says, that never happened. Dorinda is making sh*t up to make herself feel better, and putting it on her. She tells Dorinda that she didn’t bring up drinking. Dorinda asked her, what happened? she told Dorinda what Ramona said, and Dorinda attacked her. Dorinda says, that’s LuAnn’s truth. See? That’s exactly why I don’t like that your/my truth business. While it can be colored by perspective, there’s the truth, and there isn’t. LuAnn tells Dorinda that what she said was hurtful. Dorinda says, don’t talk about her drinking. LuAnn went to jail, and said it could happen to anybody. Is Dorinda drunk now? Because she’s not making any sense. LuAnn says, then why does Dorinda keep throwing it in her face? They agree not talk about each other’s drinking. Dorinda says she always supports LuAnn, and LuAnn says she supports Dorinda too. She doesn’t want to keep thinking about going to jail. She’s suffered enough. In her interview, LuAnn say she just wants Dorinda to give her a little something, but she won’t budge. It’s hard to have a relationship with someone like that. LuAnn asks if the women want to skedaddle, and that’s the second time I’ve heard that word today.

LuAnn and Ramona check out a bunch of dudes playing a volleyball game. LuAnn wants to play, but Ramona says she’ll just watch. LuAnn says she’s good at volleyball, and then proceeds to stink. When she hits the net the second time the ball bounces back and hits her, knocking her down. Everyone laughs. She finally gets one over the net, and Ramona says she got him flustered. LuAnn says, it’s the bikini.

The women go back to Vila casa del mar, and get dressed for dinner. Leah shows everyone the pictures she took. Dorinda is excited, saying Sonja usually stays in the background, but tonight she’s going to be recognized, and know that they see her and love her. When they get to the restaurant, Dorinda tells Sonja, if she thought today was fun, it’s her birthday! In her interview, Sonja says she’s blown away. Being with the girls means more than a big party. They dance around, and Sonja says it comes from the heart and she’s feeling it. A guy comes out balancing a bottle of tequila on his head, while carrying a tray of shots. In LuAnn’s interview, she says she’s been served tequila in some strange places, but never off a man’s head. She dances with him, and he comes up to about boob height on her. Sonja says, LuAnn is going to swoop him up like King Kong, and take him home.

Dorinda announces, it’s a special night for a special girl. They love Sonja, and 2020 is going to be her year. Ha! That’s what we all thought. They toast to happiness and freedom. In Sonja’s interview, she says it’s nice of Dorinda to plan this. She doesn’t need 50 girlfriends. Ramona, take notes for next year. Leah says LuAnn’s dancing partner is the size of a puppy. He takes their orders, and brings back a stack of Margaritas on his head. Leah wonders how they get them off, and he squats down so they can take them one at a time. LuAnn says she’s never had a Margarita off a man’s head, and Dorinda asks if she’s sure about that. In Dorinda’s interview, she says, these women have been all over the world, but this restaurant holds joy. Sonja is smiling ear to ear, and this is what life’s about. Leah says a guy at the bar is giving her Pablo Escobar vibes, and Dorinda tells her not to assume he’s a criminal. Ramona and Leah discuss online dating. Ramona says she tried it a year ago, but it didn’t work. Dorinda says, it shouldn’t be so complicated, and Leah says she’s the same way. She and Ramona shake hands. Leah says they can’t meet their equals; they’re too unique and different. Ramona says they all have emotional insecurities. Leah wonders how Ramona could have forgiven Mario, and Ramona says she thought of her daughter, and realized the worst thing would be to harbor hate. Leah says Ramona loved her daughter more than herself, and knew it was the best thing. It’s still hard, and a lot of people can’t do it. In Leah’s interview, she says, a lot of women who’ve been cheated on, never want to look at the guy again, and rightly so. She says she respects Ramona. She was willing to forgive Mario for the betterment of the family. Ramona wonders what’s next for her; she doesn’t know. Leah says it’s an exciting time for Ramona. She has all the money she needs, and can do what she wants. In Dorinda’s interview, she says, everybody thought the guy with the five drinks on his head was the highlight of the evening, but just wait. She and Dorinda slip off to the bathroom. Leah tells Ramona, there’s something powerful about being a mother. Ramona says she’s always been a caregiver. Sonja says, she’s not. LuAnn comes out, wearing a jacket that lights up, and a sombrero. She says Sonjarita is her friend, and sings Happy Birthday. Dorinda comes out wearing a fake big boob top and a gold turban, bearing a cake with sparklers. Sonja motorboats Dorinda’s shirt, and a mariachi band plays.

Sonja says she’s loving it. Leah thinks the waiter is an amazing man. He might be only three feet tall, but has the aura of someone six foot seven. Leah tells Sonja, happy birthday, and talks about Sonja’s tight p*ssy. Ramona tells Leah, that she doesn’t want to talk about body parts; she wants to get along. Leah promises to only talk about her perfect p*ssy. Ramona gets up, and Leah follows her. In Ramona’s interview, she says, this is the Leah she doesn’t enjoy, but she can walk away, and it will diffuse. At her birthday, there were 70 women, and she couldn’t ignore it. Ramona tells Leah, don’t talk body parts, and Leah says, stop it right now. Ramona says she’s a good Catholic girl, and she doesn’t talk about that. Then a spaceship comes down to get her. It might as well, since she’s on another planet. Leah tells Ramona, she can try and hide, but her turtle times are liked. In Leah’s interview, she says, Ramona isn’t some delicate virgin flower. When she wants to talk about sex, she does. We flash back to several times where Ramona did talk about that, and Leah says, but if she talks about anything related to sex, she’s treated like a serial killer. Leah goes back to the table, and says, she understands she embarrassed everyone. LuAnn asks what Ramona said, and Leah tells her, Ramona claims to be a prude. Dorinda says, that’s bullsh*t. Leah says once again, she’s held to a different standard. In Dorinda’s interview, she says she’s not supporting Ramona, but she does think Leah is poking the bear.

Ramona comes back, kisses the top of Leah’s head, says she loves her, and they’ll talk tomorrow. Dorinda says she’s proud of Ramona. In Ramona’s interview, she says she thinks Leah looks to her for approval, and wants to test boundaries. So she gave her a kiss to disarm her. LuAnn says that a dish is spicy, and Leah says, she likes spicy… d*ck. LuAnn says, she can’t help herself, and Ramona says, God help her.

Next time, LuAnn finds a guy, Dorinda isn’t well, more sparklers, LuAnn tries to hook up Sonja, the women attend some kind of ritual, and Ramona and LuAnn discuss Dorinda’s drinking, then confront her. I’m sure that will go well.    

💿 For the Record…

On Watch What Happens Live, LuAnn was the sole (remote) guest, and the 200th episode of RHONY was celebrated. Various people from days gone by made appearances, and one of them was Tomas, the pirate LuAnn may or may not have slept with. According to Tomas, they did not sleep together. I’m not sure if he was just being a gentleman, but case closed.

🧗‍♀️ Almost Made It…

After two days of the power going in and out, we lost it altogether tonight. Somehow, I was still able to get this post together, but tea time will have to wait until tomorrow. To top it off, WordPress has introduced a new editor that I haven’t had time to investigate fully. As far as I can tell, only links are done differently, but I’m so sleep-deprived, I could be hallucinating. Don’t let this happen to you, and stay safe, stay fit, and stay getting enough sleep.

Aug6

August 5, 2020 – Ugh, Sonny Makes a Decision, Denise Tells Her Side, Double D, Something Stinks In the Hills, the Write Entertainment & Where’s My Jack

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What I Watched Today

(rambling, random thoughts & annoyingly detailed recaps from real time TV watching)

This stupid site suddenly made me do this a new way. Hopefully it’s readable. For whatever reason, some links came out as the titles of the articles, but they’re all clickable. I love when they fix something that ain’t broke.

General Hospital

Mike is up and around, and tells Sonny that he was never better. Sonny was right to get him the surgery. Now that he got some nutrition in him, he’s his old self. Sonny says that’s all he needed, and Mike says Sonny did this to him. Sonny asks what he means, and Mike says, for him. Mike fades away, and Sonny says, don’t go. Carly tells him that he was dreaming, and he says his dad was happy about the surgery. The feeding tube worked and he was his old self again.

On the phone, Alexis tells Sam that she’s fine. Sam is concerned about Alexis’s wrist, but Alexis insists it’s better. Sam wonders about the other thing, and Alexis doesn’t suppose Sam will tell her about the text. Sam says Jason asked her to meet him, and Alexis says they talked about this. What was so important?

Sam is at the MetroCourt, and sees Neil come in. She tells Alexis that she has to go. They’ll talk soon. She marches over to Neil’s table, and asks what the hell happened between him and her mom?

Michael tells Willow that he feels like he ran a marathon, and she says, putting Wiley down for a nap takes focus and endurance. He says, without her, he would have caved, and she says they make a good team. Michael hopes the judge sees it that way.

Nelle finds Valentin at one of the lounge tables at the MetroCourt. She says she got his text. Couldn’t he have picked a less public place? Now that he’s established he’s in control, where is it? He says it’s not on him, and she asks if he’s having second thoughts. He tells her that he and Lulu understand both parents need to co-exist. She should give that a shot with Michael. She tells him to give her what she needs, or she’ll blow him out of the water.

Willow says she’s not herself, and Michael asks if she didn’t sleep. She says she couldn’t turn her mind off, wondering when the judge was going to decide about Wiley, and if it would be in their favor. Michael says he kept checking on Wiley, hoping he was awake. She says she did too, and he’s surprised they didn’t run into each other in the nursery. Willow said on time when she went in, Wiley was standing up; he has the most beautiful smile in the world. Michael says he’s a little miracle every morning, and Willow says they can’t lose him. I just have to say it. What’s with Michael’s hair??? No, just no.

Nelle asks why Valentin cares if Michael gets Wiley; he doesn’t even like the guy. He says he likes her even less. She says she’s Wiley’s mother, and her son needs her. Valentin asks if she’s trying to convince him or herself. She tells him to think about what will happen if he doesn’t help her. She’ll go straight to Michael, Ned, or any of the Quartermaines for that matter, and tell them who their mysterious buyer is. She doesn’t know his motives, and it could be a passive investment, but she doesn’t think passive applies to him. He wants to stage a takeover. If she thinks so, how long before the Quartermaines close ranks against him? Either give her what she wants, or she’ll shut him down.

Sonny tells Carly, good news. Dr. Knox can insert the feeding tube in Mike today. Carly says she wants to go along, but Sonny tells her not to. There’s nothing left to talk about, and if it gives Mike more time with them, it’s all worth it.

Neil asks Sam what Alexis said, and she tells him, after what Alexis did to protect him, he ghosted her. He never even asked Alexis what happened. He says he’d assumed she’d tell him, and Sam says her mother was disbarred.

Diane tells Alexis, not that she’d stoop to schadenfreude, but Nina told the truth about Nelle. She said Julian married her because she had something on him, but she didn’t know what. Alexis asks if that’s when the hearing was over, and Diane says, except for Nelle having a hysterical outburst about Nina betraying her. It was deliciously satisfying. There hasn’t been a verdict yet, but Judge Lowe takes his time. Alexis talks about a case that she presented in front of him, and Diane says Alexis misses it; going head to head with opposing counsel. Where does she go from here? How does Alexis Davis get her mojo back? Alexis says she has no Plan B, C, or D. She’s always told the girls the world is their oyster. Diane says it didn’t help that she’d been previously suspended, and Alexis says Neil would want her to fight it, but she perjured herself on his behalf, and needs to take her lumps, pick up the pieces of her life, and move on. She says the talk Diane had with Sam was helpful, and thanks her. Diane says, now that Alexis’s family is back on track, how do things stand between her and Neil? Alexis says, there is no her and Neil.   

Neil tells Sam that he’s sorry. He wishes he’d known. Sam says he could have called, but he says, it’s complicated. Alexis slipped, and had a drink after lying. Sam says, things happened afterward that had nothing to do with him. He’s using one drink to get out of it. He says he appreciates Sam defending Alexis, but this is between them. Sam asks how that’s possible when he won’t talk to her? They can see each other openly now, but he’s chosen to avoid Alexis. That’s on him. Sam walks out.  

Sonny pushes Mike in a wheelchair, and says, it’s a small procedure. When it’s finished, he’ll feel better. Elizabeth comes by, and asks Mike how he is, but there’s no response. She asks Sonny how it’s going, and he says, Mike isn’t eating and can’t swallow. He’s getting a procedure to get nutrition in him. Elizabeth doesn’t look happy, but says she’ll find them later and see how Mike’s doing. Sonny says she’s Mike’s favorite, and she says he’s hers too. She tells Mike that she’ll be sending good thoughts his way, and see him soon. Dr. Knox introduces Sonny to Eugene, the anesthesiologist; he’s going to prep Mike while they talk. Eugene tells Mike that he’ll be taking care of him this morning, and if Mike needs anything, let him know. Sonny says he wants to see Mike before he goes to sleep. Dr. Knox says he has to tell Sonny about possible complications first. The chances are small, but they can happen, especially to those who are elderly and Alzheimer patients.

Nelle tells Valentin, give her what she wants, or she’ll tell the Quartermaines who’s buying up the share. His plan will go up in smoke, and he’ll lose a small fortune. He tells her, if she kidnaps Wiley, she’ll end up losing him forever. Michael has unlimited resources, and she doesn’t stand a chance. She asks where the documents are, and he tells her, behind the dumpster in the parking garage.

Carly calls Jason, and tells him, Sonny is moving forward with Mike’s procedure. They’re going to insert the feeding tube. He says he’s sorry. She says she knows Sonny thinks it will give Mike more time and improve the quality of his life, but she did research. It doesn’t prolong an Alzheimer’s patient’s life, and can cause their final weeks to be torture.

Valentin sees Sam at the bar, and says it’s good he ran into her. She asks, why? and he says he has a business proposal he’d like her to consider.

Sonny tells the doctor, other than Alzheimer’s, his father is in good health. He doesn’t think there’s a risk. Dr. Knox says, there’s always a risk, but if he wants to prolong Mike’s life, it’s the only option. Sonny says, let’s do it, and the doctor says he’ll let Sonny know when the anesthesiologist is ready. Sonny runs into Felix, who says he would have prepped Sonny’s dad, but he had no idea Mike was having a procedure. Sonny says he’s having a feeding tube inserted, and Felix says he hopes it goes well. He’d love to work with Mike, but he already has a patient – Yvonne Godfrey. Sonny is surprised she’s at GH, and Felix says she’s been there almost the whole time. She got a feeding tube a month ago, but got a severe infection afterward, and more complications followed, the latest being pneumonia. She’s on a ventilator. Sonny says he’s been so preoccupied with his father, he should have asked Marcus about her. Can he see her?

Alexis tells Diane, the last time she and Neil met, he was furious about her lying. She was furious with him too, and the conversation ended when she got an email from the bar association. Diane says, so he never followed up with a call or text? Alexis says, not so much as a tweet. She’s not chasing after a man who doesn’t appreciate what she did to try and save his career. Diane says, or she could be the adult and initiate a conversation. Alexis says she’s cutting her losses. Neil is a good therapist, but a lousy potential boyfriend. There’s a knock at the door. It’s Neil.

Willow asks if Michael doesn’t think it’s unfair to cut Nelle out of Wiley’s life completely. Maybe they could work out a compromise. Michael wishes they could. If Wiley never knows Nelle, he might idealize her as the mom who never says no. It’s for the best that Wiley sees her on a limited basis, and gets a sense of who she is. Wiley will learn firsthand that he can’t trust her. Willow says they could consider that when he’s older, but right now, Nelle is so mean and emotionally unstable, she’s worried Nelle will hurt him. She’s late for visitation, and has no consideration for Wiley’s schedule or what he needs. Michael says Willow doesn’t have to be there when Nelle comes over, but she says she has no intention of hiding. She could use some incentive though. Maybe they could do something with Wiley this afternoon. Michael says he knows the perfect place. Willow says, the park, and he says, Wiley loves the carousel.

Sam asks if Valentin needs a private investigator, and he says, no. He’s acquiring certain assets, and could be helped by her children’s trust funds. She asks what he means, and he says she controls their ELQ shares, and he assumes they inherited some shares from Drew. Sam says, that’s their legacy; the stocks aren’t for sale. He says he doesn’t want to buy them, just borrow them.

Jason goes to Sonny’s house, and Carly shows him her tablet. She points out the complications that can happen with a feeding tube, and says, statistics have proven that it doesn’t extend an Alzheimer’s patient’s life. He asks if Sonny doesn’t know, and she says, he doesn’t want to know.   

Sonny looks through the window of Yvonne’s room, and sees she’s hooked up to all kinds of machines.  

Willow suggests the Natural History Museum, but Michael asks if Wiley isn’t too young for that. She says, you’re never too young for dinosaurs. The doorbell rings, and Michael guesses it’s show time after all. Nelle says she’s there to visit her sweet little boy, in compliance with the court order. Michael says she’s over an hour late, and Wiley is down for his nap.

Alexis introduces Neil to Diane, and Diane says she’s heard a bit about him. He says he won’t ask if it was good, and she says, attorney/client privilege. She has to go to a client meeting, and Alexis tells her, good luck with Judge Lowe. Neil hands Alexis a DVD, and says he heard she was disbarred. He’s so sorry. She looks at the DVD, and says, Aida, and he tells her it’s the same production they saw. He ordered one for himself and one for her. She asks, when? and he says, a while ago. He would have dropped it off, but… She says, he decided he never wants to see her again?

Sam asks how Valentin wants to borrow the shares, and he says he wants the voting proxy. Her children will still own the shares, but he needs her to delegate the power to vote to him until they’re 18. At that point, it will revert back to them. Sam says she’s turning him down. Her children don’t need the money, and she doesn’t need the money. He tells her, who says he wants to give her money?   

Sonny asks Felix why Yvonne is in restraints, and Felix says, she keeps trying to pull the feeding tube out. Sonny says she doesn’t seem to know what’s going on, and Felix says, her husband authorized it. He doesn’t believe it’s right for her to die when there are so many ways to prolong her life. Sonny thanks Felix for letting him see her.

Carly tells Jason, the website says Alzheimer’s and dementia patients require restraints so they’ll stop pulling the feeding tube out. If Mike was struggling, Sonny wouldn’t be able to bear it. Jason says, Sonny needs to hear that, but Carly says, he won’t. She asks him to come with her and help her. Maybe Sonny will listen to both of them together. Please.

Sonny sits with his head in his hands, and Elizabeth sits down near him. They look at each other. I want to cry.

Elizabeth asks if the procedure didn’t go well, and Sonny says he saw a patient like his father. She was started on a feeding tube, and they were using machine to keep her alive. That’s no way to live. His father wouldn’t want that, but how can he do nothing for him? Right up until the last few days, his father was still in there. Ava came to visit, they watched baseball; in those few moments, Mike was alive. If he does nothing for Mike, if he doesn’t do everything he can to make sure Mike is kept alive, he’ll feel like he failed Mike. He’ll feel like he failed himself. Elizabeth says his dad would never see it as failing. He’d be the first to defend whatever decision Sonny makes.

Alexis says she understands that Neil is angry with her; he made that clear. He says he was still in the process of losing his license, and not thinking clearly. Alexis says, now he is? He says he came to apologize. He’s angry at himself for taking advantage of her. She says, it takes two to tango, and she was willing to tango with him. They’re both guilty of being impulsive. Neil says he saw himself as the opposite; it was out of character. She asks if that’s his apology, and he asks if she accepts it. She says she won’t. She can’t.  

Sam says if Valentin isn’t offering her money, he must have something he thinks she wants. He says he’s aware that the conditions of her parole state that she can’t associate with any known felons. The rule is at the discretion of the parole officer, and her parole officer enforced it to the limit. She can’t see her husband for a year and a half, or she’ll have her parole revoked and go back to prison. She asks how he knows all this, and he says, that’s not the question. He has a way to remove those draconian conditions, and allow her to associate with whoever she pleases. 

Nelle says she going to let the judge know Michael won’t let her see her son. Michael tells her, he never said that, and Willow says Michael told her that she’d have to wait until after Wiley’s nap. His schedule takes precedence over hers. Nelle says she’s not going to endure hostility for hours, and Michael suggests they reschedule. He’ll tell the court she missed her time, and they’ll set a new date. She brings out a small stuffed bear, and tells him to give Wiley this – from his mom. Mr. Willikers will remind him of her, in case she’s not around. Michael says Wiley’s favorite toy is a stuffed kangaroo. Wiley won’t go anywhere without Mr. Hopsicle. She says how nice they know so much about her son. She picks up the kangaroo, and says, Mr. Hopsicle has a pouch; he should be Mrs. Hopsicle. Doesn’t Michael want to be politically correct? Willow asks if Nelle ever has anything nice to say, and Michael tells her not to engage. Nelle says she can only imagine how they paint her to Wiley as a wicked witch, but it’s not about her. It’s about Willow, and how she wants to be the perfect mother, even though she’s not a mother at all. At the end of the day, she’s his real mother, and that will never change. Never.

Sonny tells Elizabeth that he knows she and Jason talked about Mike, and she says, as a nurse, she has her own opinion, but it’s not her place to tell him what to do. He says she’s not just a nurse; she’s a trusted friend. He’s asking what she thinks. She says she thinks he needs to make the best decision he can for his dad; for his dignity and quality of life. It isn’t selfish. Not if he believes it’s a merciful decision. Sonny doesn’t know, and Elizabeth says, this is hard, but when she saw his dad just now, all she saw was the shell of a man. There’s no spark left inside. Mike can’t feed himself, he can’t enjoy food, he can’t even smile. He won’t go to another baseball game or enjoy his grandchildren or his son. What kind of life is that? Sonny says, Mike has moments. When Ava came, he loved Avery’s drawings. Sonny fed Mike manicotti, and put things in Mike’s ears, so he could listen to music. Elizabeth says, even with a feeding tube, Mike is going to die. Maybe not today or tomorrow, but eventually, his heart is going to give out. He has to ask himself how much Mike is suffering. Sonny thinks he knows what his dad would want, but he’s feeling guilty if he’s not doing everything to keep Mike alive. But it’s not about him; it’s about Mike. Elizabeth says, years ago, Lucky told her something Mary Mae Ward said. Life presents opportunities for grace. She realized grace isn’t joy or triumph. It’s not something you get when you win. Grace comes when you’re forced to make difficult choices. Ones that often hurt us.

Alexis says, like Neil, she had a career she loved, and she’s having a hard time processing it like him. He wonders if they’ve lost the potential for a relationship for nothing, and she says she needs time. She’s not saying it’s forever. He says, just for now. He wonders if they can maybe see each other on common ground, just as friends, but she says she can’t. In the meantime, thanks for the DVD. He tells her, enjoy, and leaves.    

Valentin tells Sam that he knows people who can get Delores off her case. All she has to do is give him the voting proxy, with one caveat; secrecy. If she tells anyone, the deal is off. She has the feeling he’s not telling her everything, but he says he has no ulterior motive; it’s just business. She asks why she should believe him, and he says, it’s mutually advantageous. They both get what they want. She thinks there’s a catch she hasn’t seen yet, and he tells her to think about it. The deal isn’t on the table indefinitely.  

Carly and Jason get to the hospital, and Carly asks Sonny if Mike had the procedure. Sonny says, not yet, but before they say anything, he changed his mind. He wants the doctors to keep Mike comfortable, but no extreme measures; no feeding tube. He appreciates both of them giving him room. He didn’t make it easy on them, but he needed to figure it out for himself – with a little help from a friend. Carly says, Mike would thank him. Sonny says he’s going to talk to the doctors, and when he’s gone, Carly tells Elizabeth, whatever she said, thank you. Elizabeth says she’s going to miss Mike, and Jason says they all will. Me too. Carly says they have to figure out how to say goodbye, and Jason nods.

Outside, Nelle looks at a tracking device on her phone. She says she’ll always know where her beautiful Wiley is.  

Michael asks Willow if they’re still on for the park, and she says, absolutely. A carousel ride is the perfect antidote for a visit from Nelle.

Nelle takes out two passports; one for her, and one for Wiley.

Willow says they can go to the play area, and Michael says he can’t wait for her to see what a champ Wiley is on the big slide. He’s totally fearless. She says, like his dad, and Michael says he’d like to think Wiley is learning by example. Willow says she’s not fearless, and he says, maybe not, but she’s brave enough to do the right thing, even if it scares her. No matter what Nelle says, she’ll always be Wiley’s real mother.

Carly and Jason look in on Sonny with Mike. Sonny sits next to Mike’s bed, and asks how it’s going. Mike says something I don’t hear, or maybe it’s nothing, and Sonny says he talked to the doctor. There’s not going to be a procedure. When Mike is ready to go sleep, it will be when he chooses to, not anybody else. His family loves him a great deal. Sonny loves him, and his love for Mike is going to last forever. So if he doesn’t want to stick around, he doesn’t have to. Mike breathes a sigh of relief, tearing up, and Sonny says when he’s ready to go, he can go. Mike nods, and one tear rolls down Sonny’s cheek.

Tomorrow, Dante says there’s a timebomb ticking in his head. Maxie says something momentous is going to happen, and Cyrus goes to the garage to talk to Brando.

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills

Like Max from 2 Broke Girls said, I have no more capacity for hate in my head. Yet I watch this.

30 minutes after dinner. Kyle sits with Teddi, Erika, and Sutton. She says, it was the effing worst. Erika says, it was horrible, and Kyle wonders if it’s true. Erika says, either Brandi is one huge ass liar, or Denise is covering all her bases like crazy. Kyle says she feels tortured. Oh please. Sitting with Denise and Garcelle, Dorit says, it was like a bomb. Garcelle wonders what Denise is going to do, and Denise says, it’s effing slander. Garcelle asks why Brandi would make it up, and if she’s going to come up with any text messages. Denise asks, what would she have said? Great f*** last night; thank you? Sutton says Denise is fight or flight, and might not be there tomorrow.

It’s morning, and LisaR looks like sh*t. Good. Sutton drops off a pair of boots to Kyle. Kyle says the boots are making her happy. It’s just what the doctor ordered. She asks if Sutton has talked to Denise, and she says, not this morning. Brandi shouldn’t talk… Sutton says she has to finish her deliveries. In her interview, Sutton says she didn’t know if it was going to rain in Rome, so she had boots made for everyone. She brought them in a suitcase, knowing she can shop and fill it. We flash back to the night before, and Garcelle is telling Denise, this too shall pass. Denise says, that’s what her mom always said. Dorit says she’s sure Denise has things to say to certain people.

LisaR calls Denise, and asks how she is, like she cares. Denise says, just peachy. LisaR thinks they need to talk, and asks if she can come down. Denise says, yeah, and I wonder why she’s bothering. Kyle calls Dorit, and asks if they can meet up before they meet Sutton at Dolce. Dorit says, sure, and in her interview, she says, arguing with Kyle gets her nowhere. We flash back to Kyle cutting her off at dinner, and then go to Kyle trying to call Dorit last night, and saying, she’s not answering. Dorit says, maybe the silent treatment will make Kyle realize she treats her differently than the others. And she’d better apologize.

Denise tells LisaR that she doesn’t know where to start. LisaR says she doesn’t either. Denise says she was blindsided. LisaR knew, and she asks how LisaR could let her go through the whole day, and not say something. LisaR says she heard about it when Denise was flying in; there was no time. This is such bullsh*t, I can’t even. There was plenty of time. Denise says, if it was the other way around, wouldn’t LisaR want her to send a text or something? She’s always had LisaR’s back. In LisaR’s interview, she says, she doesn’t feel it was her responsibility. That was Teddi’s job, since she’s the one who heard about it. You get in trouble when you play telephone. Denise asks why LisaR was egging Teddi on with, you gotta say it, you gotta say it. LisaR says, because it’s out there. In her interview, LisaR says, if it wasn’t true, Denise would be calling Brandi and confronting her. Denise says she’s only seen Brandi a couple of times in her life. Brandi wanted Denise to do her podcast, but she was out of town. Brandi asked to come to Denise’s set for an interview. She thinks Brandi stayed overnight. LisaR asks if Denise has tried calling Brandi, and Denise says, no; she’s canceling Brandi. It’s not cool. She hasn’t cheated on her husband. LisaR asks why Denise thinks Brandi would say it, and Denise says, shock value? She thinks what got sh*t stirrer Teddi upset, was that Brandi claimed she’d said things about Teddi that she didn’t. We flash back to Teddi repeating that Denise said she was pathetic, and wanted to be in with the group because she was tired of living in her father’s shadow. Which I agree with, even if Denise doesn’t. Denise tells LisaR, whatever she’s had to say about Teddi, she’s said to her face. Brandi told her that the group talked behind her back. In LisaR’s interview, she says Denise told them she didn’t talk much to Brandi. It’s effing confusing. Denise says, she and Brandi don’t talk all time. It’s time to move on; she came there wanting to have fun. LisaR says she’s going to rally everyone; she rented a couple of Ferraris. She asks if Denise would be more comfortable shopping with Sutton, but Denise says, it’s been a lot. She needs a minute. Let me just say it. LISAR DISGUSTS ME. From her pumped up lips that can’t wait to talk trash, to her claiming to own it when she passes the buck constantly. I can’t stand her. She’s admitted she’ll say yes to anything and is a hustler. And what she’s always doing is hustling her way to more screen time. Why Denise even gives this lowlife the time of day, I have no idea.

Teddi calls Kyle, and says she’s doing stuff around there today. She wants to get in some fitness, and rest before tonight. She has jet lag, and she’s pregnant. Kyle meets Dorit, and they go to a café. Kyle says, this is what they should be doing; sitting outside with a glass of wine. Kyle says she knows Dorit is upset with her, and we flash back to last night, when Dorit said Kyle didn’t let her finish. Kyle says, it’s not her intention, but Dorit says Kyle cuts her off when she’s trying to make a point, and it makes her look bad. Kyle says, everybody in the group does that, but we flash back to just Kyle doing it over and over, and attacking Dorit. Kyle is like one of those people who says, we were all drunk, when they’re the only one who acted like a drunken fool. In Dorit’s interview, she says she feels that Kyle takes advantage of their friendship. Kyle knows Dorit will forgive her, so she throws digs and cuts Dorit off. It’s hurtful, and Kyle needs to recognize that. She says Kyle made it seem like she wasn’t sensitive. What she was saying got twisted, and it looked like she was going after Denise. In her interview, Dorit says, Kyle never defended her when she knew Teddi planned to humiliate her. We flash back to the reunion, where Teddi was reminded she said she didn’t want to be the only one do this to Dorit. In her interview, Dorit says she doesn’t know why Kyle treats her differently. Kyle thought she was making Denise look bad, but she was only thinking, oh my God, what Denise has to deal with. She gets tortured when she cares about someone. Dorit tells Kyle that when she feels hurt, sometimes she needs distance, and Kyle says she gets it. She apologizes, and in her Dorit’s interview, she says, in a group, Kyle is vicious, but one on one, she’s sweet. That’s because Kyle never left middle school, and she’s queen of the group now. Kyle says she cares about Dorit, and Dorit says sometimes the jokes on Kyle’s part go too far. In Kyle’s interview, she says she thinks Dorit over-reacted, but she’ll try to remember her points, and save them for later. She makes a face like being polite is so ridiculous. Kyle says she’s glad they talked. She doesn’t want it to grow. Dorit says she was with Denise and Garcelle until 2 am, and Kyle asks what Denise was saying. Dorit says Denise told them it’s not true, and maybe Brandi is doing it for attention. Is it possible she made it up? Kyle says she doesn’t think Brandi makes things up, and I choke on my coffee. In Kyle’s interview, she says, Brandi has already been in a lawsuit with Joanna Krupa. Yeah. I remember that. Google it, because I’m not repeating something that disgusting. Kyle doesn’t think Brandi would cause legal problems for herself again. She tells Dorit, regardless of what’s true, Denise has a lot to deal with.

Garcelle goes to Denise’s room, and asks if she’s okay. Denise says, not really. Garcelle asks if she’s coming out; they’re going driving. Denise says, this is a lot, and in Garcelle’s interview, she says, when she was going through her divorce, and it was in the tabloids, she reached out to Denise, who told her to shut it down and move forward. It’s a sh*tty position to be in, but what options does she have? If she can deal with Charlie Sheen, she can deal with LisaR and Teddi. In Denise’s interview, she says she loves Garcelle. She’s a true, loyal friend, and she doesn’t get caught up in what other people are saying. Denise respects that. Outside, the Ferraris arrive, and we see they’re worth a measly $210K. The other women pretend nothing happened. A guide tells them they’re driving to a wine tasting, and Erika gets behind the wheel of one. In her interview, she says, it’s everything she lives for in life; Italian men, food, and cars. They get to tourist spot with a gorgeous view, and take selfies. Garcelle is the cutest when she smiles and shows her dimples.

Dorit suggests getting Fendi pouches for the girls for Christmas at the Dolce store. In Sutton’s interview, she says when she told Dolce that she was coming to Rome, he told her to come shopping and bring the girls. She didn’t ask; she doesn’t have to. We flash back to Sutton telling LisaR that she gets a tiara on her birthday from Dolce and Gabbana. Client representative Mario greets them, and you’d think Sutton was his long lost sister. He has a selection ready for Sutton. In Dorit’s interview, she says first she got a handbag, then rainboots, and now this experience. Is Sutton trying to buy their friendships? If so, it’s good to have friends in high places. They try on tiaras, and we flash back to Sutton’s collection.

The others go to the wine tasting. They’re led by restaurant owner Matteo to a space underground. He introduces them to sommelier Monica and says he’s leaving them in good hands. Monica brings fabulous appetizers to go with the wine. Once again I wonder why people who don’t appreciate it get these opportunities. While I like Garcelle, Denise, and Sutton, I’m so over the rest of them. In Garcelle’s interview, she says, it’s a slice of heaven. She says, in a group the women shop and party more, drink hard, and fight harder. In a smaller group, they’re more civilized. Can they just keep doing this? At the store, the other women have champagne. They expect a fashion show from Sutton, but she says she likes to try on things in private. Dorit asks if Kyle has ever gone in a store and not bought something, and Kyle says, never.

Monica tells the women, with each bottle, the wine is rising in alcoholicity. In Denise’s interview, she says she needs to know how to say tequila in Italian. Denise mentions her garlic allergy, and Erika says Tom has one too. She has to douse herself in Listerine when she eats it, and he still says he can smell it; it comes out of her pours. Truth. She says, he’s a drama queen and a pouter. In her interview, Erika says that she’s not the diva in the relationship. Tom is the biggest diva known to man. LisaR says, Harry never pouts. Erika asks if he ever raises his voice, and LisaR says, if he does, it’s time to run for the hills. Denise says her dad was like that. Garcelle says some of the women like to shout, and she got a quick initiation last night. How can they be like this the next day? Denise says, in her family, they talk it out, apologize, let it roll of their backs, and move on. She thinks some women in the group want that chaos around them. Garcelle says, this is delish, but I don’t know if she means the wine or the topic. Denise says, sometimes, it’s hard to talk about some things. You’re halfway through a sentence, when someone else is coming at you. How are you supposed to know what’s going on, who’s upset, or how to resolve it? Erika says that’s why you have to just tell your truth. The way she sees it, they’re all grown-ups, and can defend themselves. Really? I think it’s difficult when the others act like bullying children, and gang up on someone, ambushing them. Denise says she heard Erika was upset with Aaron, and Erika says she didn’t like the way Aaron talked to them. We flash back to the party where Erika provoked Aaron. Denise says she didn’t know what he’d said, and Erika says, it’s hard when husbands get involved; it adds another layer. Denise agrees, and Erika says they’ve had that before, referring to PK. She says, men communicate differently, and maybe Aaron has a different perspective. He was protecting his wife, and she respects and understands that, but there’s a time, place, and tone for everything. I would agree, if she hadn’t been the one to start the conversation. Was he just supposed to listen to her and say nothing? Denise apologizes on his behalf, saying she wasn’t there, but she knows Aaron wouldn’t want to be hurtful or condescending. He’ll have to apologize directly, but she’d love to just move past it if they can. In Erika’s interview, she says if she can move past PK, she can move past this. Erika says she doesn’t look at Denise based on Aaron. In Denise’s interview, she says, with the twenty issues they have, she feels like she put one to bed. LisaR says she’s glad they talked. Garcelle says he has a confession to make… She’s tipsy. Erika says, bitch, so am I. She’s lit.

Kyle wonders what tonight will be like, and Sutton says, if it’s not fun, she’s going to be mad. Life is too short to keep fighting. In Kyle’s interview, she says she just knows it’s not going to be a relaxing, peaceful dinner. While getting ready, Dorit says she’s channeling her fun 90s look. They meet at a restaurant, and Garcelle is shocked that Denise is wearing a dress. Everyone waits for Dorit. Someone has been putting lipstick on her for an hour, and she asks if everyone is downstairs. The producer says, yes, but that doesn’t get her to move any faster. Garcelle says, it better be worth it, but when Dorit gets there, Kyle doesn’t know if it was worth it. We flash back to Kyle being pissed about Dorit getting glam for Yeti’s Teddi’s retreat. In her interview, Kyle says if she finds out Dorit was taking up time doing a photo shoot, she’s going to lose her sh*t. In Denise’s interview, she says she’s feeling uncomfortable. The truth is, she called the airline, but couldn’t get a flight out. Hopefully, the women had a great day, and they can put last night aside. At the end of the day, she likes and respects them… most of them.

They go to private table downstairs. In LisaR’s interview, she says seeing Denise and Erika be honest and move on, makes her hope the whole group can do the same. It’s progress. She asks everyone how their day was, saying they should start with being nice and surface. Kyle says they went to Dolce and Gabbana. A waitress takes their drink orders, and Sutton tells the group she’s gained a few, and her clothes are tight. We see a clip of her refusing to come out while trying on clothes, and someone telling her not to cry. Sutton says she likes to see her outfits for herself, and likes to shop alone. LisaR says her mom used to not buy something until her dad okayed it; she wanted him to see it on her first. Dorit says it was because she wanted to though, not because it was imposed on her. Kyle asks what Lois thinks about LisaR’s dancing half-naked on Instagram, and LisaR says she does stuff on Instagram because Lois watches it. She’s always aware that Lois sees everything. She thinks it’s great for Lois. In Garcelle’s interview, she says dancing nearly naked is great, but it’s wouldn’t be a choice for her if her daughter had a body issue. LisaR says Lois got 500K likes on social media. They talk about the Ferraris, and Erika says they had a wine tasting. She explained to Denise how she felt about Aaron, and Denise apologized on his behalf, even though she didn’t have to. It was open and honest. Denise says Aaron has respect for them, and cares about them. In Teddi’s interview, she says, if Aaron felt that way, he had other options. Denise is full of sh*t. Denise says Aaron has no negative intentions toward any of them, and she was surprised. Kyle says, it’s better to talk about it and move on, like this bunch has ever moved on from anything. Denise says, next time, Aaron can apologize himself. He was surprised it was perceived as anything but diffusing the situation. In Denise’s interview, she says after what the women did to her in Rome, she doesn’t think an apology is coming. Aaron will say, f*** them. Kyle says, there’s nothing that can’t be talked through. She was anxious and crying last night, and Denise shouldn’t feel nervous. Denise says she’s not. She’s felt unwelcomed at times, but how can you not feel that way when you’re the one in the hotseat?. Dorit says they’re not attacking her. I don’t know what she calls it then, when everyone comes at you at once. Group telling-your-truth?

Dorit says it wasn’t an attack on Denise, but Denise says, there has to be a line. Garcelle wonders how they move beyond  this. In Garcelle’s interview, she says, Denise had so many things coming at her, she didn’t defend herself the right way. She needs to say how she feels about what was said, say she didn’t do it, they’re crazy, and move on. Teddi says she doesn’t know Brandi well, but she doesn’t know Denise well either, so she doesn’t know what to believe. Denise says she met Brandi when she got a call from a mutual branding agent who represented Brandi. He asked if the three of them could meet. We flash back to last season when she and Brandi had drinks, and they talked about when they met. Hmm… That’s interesting, since that means Brandi wanted to meet Denise. Denise says, Brandi kept asking her to do the podcast, Brandi flew up, then flew back to L.A. After that was when they’d spoken, and Brandi knew everything that was going on in the group. Kyle asks when this was; recently? Denise says it was before Kyle’s party. In pathetic Teddi’s interview, she says Denise claimed she hadn’t talked to Brandi before the party, and now she’s saying someone else is feeding Brandi information. Denise says Brandi knew about Santa Barbara; someone is sharing things with her. She knew about the little tiffs, and knew stuff Denise didn’t know. She shared personal stuff from people who were involved with the group that Denise won’t repeat. Erika says after what was said about Denise, she should share it, but Denise says Brandi might be lying, and she won’t do it. Brandi’s also said she’s had sex with every single woman who she’s come in contact with, including people in this group. Dorit laughs, but Denise says she’s not joking. Kyle asks if Denise is saying Brandi claimed to have had sex with someone sitting at the table, and Denise says, yes. Kyle says that would be either her or LisaR, and in her interview, she wonders why Denise didn’t say something last night. She doesn’t believe it. Well, maybe she was either so stunned, she couldn’t say much, or she didn’t want to stoop to Brandi’s level. LisaR says she never heard that, and Kyle says she’s struggling. Denise says Brandi said the same thing about her. In LisaR’s interview, she says, if Denise is trying to deflect, it’s not working. She tells Denise, she doesn’t think so. Don’t even put it out there.

💪🏽 Lulu’s Men…

One is glad to be back.

Dominic Zamprgona Declares It’s “So Great to Be Back” on GENERAL HOSPITAL

And the other is ready for him.

Mark Lawson Says Dustin Is Ready for Dante’s Return to GENERAL HOSPITAL!

🧩Something’s Not Right…

I don’t know what it is exactly, but something isn’t quite right with the Brandi timeline.

https://www.bravotv.com/the-daily-dish/brandi-glanville-denise-richards-friendship-timeline-real-housewives

🎭 Read All About It…

I’ll be writing an article a week for the Mupo Entertainment site, giving my take on what entertains me – or not.

https://mupoentertainment.com/theresa-krakauskas/

🌬 I Hate You, Weather…

It’s late, or early depending on what side of it you’re on. While I’m thrilled the Isaias didn’t knock out the power completely, it’s still cutting in and out. So I’m cutting out. Hopefully, this will be over with soon, and I can be on the Internet without wondering if I’m suddenly going to be shut down. But for now, stay safe, stay tough , and stay speaking the truth, not just your version of it.

Aug5

August 4, 2020 – Valentin Makes a Deal, Filling In, a Bella Of a House, Big Brother Is Here, New Cuckoo & Hurricane

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What I Watched Today

(rambling, random thoughts & annoyingly detailed recaps from real time TV watching)

 

General Hospital

Sam bangs on Alexis’s door. Alexis lets her in, and asks, what happened? Sam says Alexis doesn’t want to know, but she’s telling her anyway. Alexis suggests Sam make some tea.

Martin asks Valentin what he’s going to do if Brook goes to her father. Valentin says, fist of all, even if she does, it’s not the end of the world. Martin asks if there’s a second of all, and Valentin says he doesn’t think she will.

Brook tells Ned that she received some interesting career advice she wants to talk to him about. Olivia suggests Ned discuss Brook’s career. And while he’s at it, why not open up and ELQ spread sheet? She walks out, and Brook says, yikes. What’s up with her?

At the hospital, Cyrus suggests Monica adjust her thinking. Anyone who underestimates him has come to regret it. Some more than others. Jordan asks if everything is all right, and Monica says Cyrus thinks the GH board is underestimating him, but nothing could be farther from the truth. Cyrus assures her that he has no sinister intent. He wants to contribute to the community. Monica says he’s not part of the community, and he says, yet here he is. He lives in Port Charles, and wants to help the hospital thrive. She says they’ve been thriving on their own for decades. They don’t want him there.

Carly comes into the kitchen – the one displaying the infamous bowl of moss – and sees Sonny and Jason. She says she’s glad they’re both there, and asks Sonny, what happened with Mike? Sonny says, it’s not good.

Nelle asks Nina, how could you? You betrayed me, you bitch. She sided with Carly when Nelle thought Nina cared about her. Nina says Nelle shouldn’t have asked her testify if Nelle didn’t want her to tell the truth.

Sam says, tea isn’t going to help, but slapping Julian again will. Alexis says, she slapped him again? and Sam says, after court, she slapped the spit out of him. Alexis says Sam is on parole; she can’t be slapping people. She tells Sam to make it chamomile. She needs to calm down.

Nelle says when she asked Nina to help her keep her son, Nina said she would, but she helped Carly to take her son away from her. Nina says Carly wasn’t taking Nelle’s son away. His father Michael is fighting for full custody. Nelle says she’s not that stupid. Michael is Carly’s puppet, and Carly wants to destroy her. She’s the only one who sees who Carly is, and Carly can’t stand it.

Ned tells Brook that Olivia is feeling neglected, and she’s not wrong. Brook says Ned is the best husband ever, but he says, not lately. He got caught up with ELQ, and salvaging the Mertin Tech deal. Brook says, sorry, and he says, it’s his fault. He tried to shoehorn her into ELQ, when she’s not the corporate type. Does she want to know a secret? Some days he wishes he could hand someone the company, and get out of there. He’d be gone in a second.

Valentin tells Martin that Brook is a bright girl. He’s going to take a valuable company, and make it very valuable. Who wouldn’t like that? Martin says, maybe people who want it to remain in family hands. Valentin says, with all the infighting? Who will be the CEO? Ned, the seasoned vet, or Michael, the prodigy? He’s going to take the choice away from them. Martin says he has the portrait of altruism in front of him, and Valentin says they’ll be grateful when the stock goes up 300%. Martin is sure Valentin will be getting fruit baskets right and left, but make sure they’re not laced with arsenic. Valentin says Martin will see.

Sonny tells Carly, his father can’t focus or communicate. He’s trying to figure out what Mike wants, and what’s best for him. Carly wishes she had an answer; some way to make it easier. One thing she knows for sure is, whatever Sonny decides will be okay with Mike. What Mike wants more than anything is for Sonny to be okay. There’s no doubt in her mind about that. Sonny says he needs to think, and leaves. Carly tells Jason, she wishes she could help, but Jason says she can’t.

Monica says no one wants to do business with a drug trafficker and murderer, and Cyrus says he was exonerated, thanks to their Police Commissioner. She exposed how her colleagues had framed him. Jordan says she followed the letter of the law, and Cyrus says he wants to pay it forward. His partnership with the hospital will put them in good standing financially and with the community. As a board member, he’d appreciate her support. Monica says, when hell freezes over, and he says, that may come sooner than she thinks.

Ned tells Brook, he envies Michael sometimes. He may be younger, but he seems to have learned lessons Ned is still struggling with; getting his priorities in order. It’s one thing running a company when your younger, without children, and devote your time and energy to it. Brook says, that’s not the case for Michael anymore; he has a child. Ned says, it’s not the case for him either.

Valentin tells Martin that he has Brook’s shares, and Nelle’s, and he has the shares from Skye Chandler Quartermaine. Martin wonders why the name Chandler rings a bell, and Valentin says, the family is from Pine Valley. Martin shrugs, and I react like this is the funniest thing I ever heard. I don’t know if these episodes are particularly good, or I just missed seeing new ones. Valentin says if he gets the shares from Skye’s daughter, he’ll own a lot, but Martin says, a lot won’t do him any good. Michael has the largest block; his shares, AJ’s and Jason’s. Martin says, there’s a whole section they’ve neglected, who’s controlling the children’s shares, but they don’t need to look too far. Sam is who he wants to look at next. Martin asks if he’s lost his mind.

Nelle tells Nina, Carly ignored her for years, until Carly finally needed something. It was only then Carly reached out to Nelle’s dad to get Josslyn a kidney. Nina says, that’s not what happened. Jax reached out. Carly didn’t do anything, and Nina knows Nelle knows that. If Nelle is going to build her life on a big grudge, Nina suggests she get her facts straight.

Sam beings out the tea, and asks what happened to Alexis’s wrist? Alexis says, it just needs ice. Last summer, she tripped and fell, and jammed her wrist. It’s painful for a few days, and then it passes. Since Sam made tea, she suggests Sam drink some, and tell her what happened in court, rationally and calmly. Sam says she listened to Julian shore up Nelle’s case to take Wiley from Michael, and it got bad. Alexis gets how maddening Julian can be, but no more slapping. Sam says she made a mistake, but Alexis should have heard the garbage about him losing a child he thought was his grandson. Alexis says, the last time Julian sounded that insane, was when his sister Liv was blackmailing him. Sam asks if she thinks Nelle is doing the same thing, and Alexis says, why else would Julian marry her? She clearly has some leverage.

Carly tells Jason that she thinks Sonny would like to let Mike go, but he doesn’t have the comfort of a signed document so there’s no doubt whatsoever. In Sonny’s mind, the difference is between honoring Mike’s wishes and killing his own father. When it gets to that point, how do you let someone go, unless there’s a paper that says exactly what they want? She should have seen it coming, and insisted they sit down and handle it; not just for Mike, but for themselves. They need it in writing, and Jason does too. Jason says he already has it. When they were visiting Mike, and he saw what Sonny was going through, that made it real. He needs to be clear about what he wants, and who he wants to decide.

Ned says he never told Brook, but the real reason he and her mom divorced was because of his sense of duty to ELQ and the Quartermaines. He wasn’t always there for Brook growing up. Even after she came back, he could have been more supportive of her and her career, but he agreed to do this, and owes it to ELQ and the family to do his best. Brook says, sacrifices are necessary sometimes, and Ned says, it’s not that ELQ is more important than her, Olivia, or Leo – never – but at this moment in time, this company requires the most attention. She asks if it would be nice if someone swooped in and took everything over, and he says, it would. Unfortunately, that’s not going happen.

Sonny looks at Donna in her crib, and tells her that he needs her help. He has a terrible decision to make. One he promises she’ll never have to make for him.

Jason tells Carly, he’s not married to Sam, and needs somebody to make decisions for him, if comes to that. And he needs that somebody to be her. He talked to Diane, and he’d like to give Carly power of attorney over his estate, his medical decisions, everything. She knows his wishes, and if there was ever a question of leaving him breathing with tubes in him, or turning the machine off… Carly says, he’d want it turned off, and he says, yes. She says she wants to say yes, and will, but it should be Sam.

Sam tells Alexis, if Julian is being blackmailed, then his rehabilitation and new life are a lie. Alexis says, the only way for Julian to be threatened would be to expose something he didn’t want made public. Sam says, Julian will always save his own skin, but they’re talking about putting a child at risk this time. Can she imagine Julian marrying Nelle? Alexis can’t imagine Julian being involved in anything Nelle would do. She’s sorry Sam had to listen. Sam thanks Alexis for letting rant. She knows Alexis’s feelings are complicated for Julian, among others. Alexis says, better to vent to her than face an assault charge. Sam says, nice deflecting, and Alexis asks if she was. Sam says maybe she was too subtle. By others, she was talking about Neil. What does Neil think about Alexis being disbarred? Alexis says she doesn’t know.

Nina says Nelle forgot that Nina was in town when she came there. She saw how Carly opened her life and her home to Nelle. Carly bent over backwards in gratitude, and would have done anything for Nelle, but Nelle was the one who sabotaged the relationship with all her insane crap. She lied, she drugged Sonny; Carly had no recourse except to come at her to protect her family. It was all Nelle. Nelle asks, who is Nina to lecture her? Nina has never had to work for anything in her entire life. She’s just a spoiled rich girl.

Olivia tells Ned that she’s sorry, but he tells her, don’t apologize. He completely understands. She says, does he? She’s trying to maintain, and be upbeat, and soldier on, but she’s in a lot of pain, and he’s missing every cue. He says he’s sorry, and she says she’s been grieving Dante, and feels like she’s alone. She can’t go to Rocco or Lulu, and Sonny has a lot on his plate already. She needs Ned to hold her, let be rational, and vent, but he’s not there because of some company. He reaches for her, but she shakes him off. She says, it’s not like ELQ is in any real danger; no one’s life is at stake. If the company was sold tomorrow, his whole family would be richer than Midas, and live off a trust fund until his grandchildren’s grandchildren were old and grey. Ned says, it’s about priorities, and Olivia says she needs him to make her one. He says she is, and she tells him, show her. The doorbell rings, and it’s Laura. She asks if it’s a bad time, and Ned starts to say they’re in the middle of something, but Olivia says, it’s fine. Come in. Laura says she needs ELQ’s support to keep the hospital from falling into the wrong hands.

Nelle says, since birth, everything has been handed to Nina on a silver platter. Nina says, that’s rich, and Nelle says, is it? When she went crazy, she was forced to go to prison, and plead guilty. Nina went to a cushy mental institution, no more than a glorified day spa. She drugged Ava, induced Ava’s labor, and stole her child, and what was the consequence? Nothing. She was rewarded with Crimson. Nina says, rewriting history is Nelle’s thing, and Nelle asks what the difference between them is. Is Nina better than her, or special? No. It’s because she’s an heiress.

Sonny tells Donna, he wants nothing more than to let go of her grandpa. It’s agony to watch him like this; sick, scared, and lost. Sonny just wants it to be over, but he can’t be selfish. She should have seen her grandfather with Avery. They were so happy; smiling and having a beautiful visit. If his dad wants to spend one more moment with her and Avery and him, one more chance to experience joy, who is he to say Mike shouldn’t do that? How can he do that to his father? Sonny’s phone rings. It’s Turning Woods.

Jason tells Carly, he’s not afraid to die, but afraid to be stuck in that in-between place; alive, but really not alive. Carly asks if he’d rather she shoot him, and he says he knows she would, if came to that, but with Sam, it’s different. They love each other, but if Sam could choose to let him die, he doesn’t think she could. Carly asks what makes him think she could? She’s selfish, and needs him in her life. Doesn’t he think she’d hold onto hope, long after hope was gone? Does he think she’d say, that’s what he wants, and goodbye? He thinks she would, and she asks, why? He says, because he trusts her, and she knows what he wants, and understands why he wants it. He knows it’s a lot to ask, but he has nobody else. She says, of course (🍷) she will. She’d do anything for him, but don’t ever put her in that position. He says he’ll do his best.

Sam says Alexis was disbarred for protecting Neil. How can she not talk to him? Alexis says she was disbarred because she chose to lie under oath. It’s not Neil’s problem or responsibility. Sam says, he’ll find out eventually. Doesn’t Alexis think they should face this together? Alexis says they’re not together anymore, and when they were, the last time was uncomfortable and awkward. She doesn’t want to do that anymore. Sam says, it makes no sense. Alexis isn’t a lawyer anymore, and Neil’s not a shrink; they can finally see each other. Why is she making excuses to avoid him? Alexis asks why Sam doesn’t try harder to be with Jason, and Sam says Alexis doesn’t want her to be with Jason. Alexis says, that’s not her point. Sam confronts current circumstances, and that’s what she needs to do. Sam says she has the world’s harshest parole officer. If she goes near Jason, she’ll be sent to prison. Alexis doesn’t have anything keeping her from being with Neil except her pride. She thinks Alexis is embarrassed about her disbarment, and doesn’t want to talk to him about it. Sam’s phone dings, and it’s a text from Jason, asking her to meet him in the GH conference room on the 2nd floor. Sam says she loves Alexis, but wishes Alexis would get out of her own way sometimes. Alexis says, right back at her.

Martin asks why Valentin thinks Sam would want to sell her shares to him, and Valentin says he doesn’t need the shares; just the voting proxy. Martin says, for the sake of argument, Drew is dead and Sam is free to do what she wants, Danny’s father is Jason, who’s very much alive. He’s heard Jason is the least cooperative person in Port Charles. Valentin says, Jason is disinterested, and Martin says, not when comes to Michael. He’ll do what Michael wants, and it’s safe to assume Michael won’t want Valentin to get his hands on the company. Valentin says Jason cares about Michael, not the shares, but Sam is different. He thinks he can get her to hand over her proxy for the right incentive. Martin says Valentin has him hooked; what incentive could that possibly be? Brook approaches their table, and Valentin introduces her to Martin. She says Martin was with Nelle that night Nelle crashed their shareholders meeting. It couldn’t be a coincidence that Nelle and Valentin have the same lawyer. Martin says he has an extensive client list, but Brook says, Michael told her Nelle sold her shares. It has to be to Valentin. Valentin has her shares, and Nelle’s. Martin says he’ll be at the bar, enjoying a veritable torrent various libations. He leaves, and Valentin asks if Brook thought about his offer. She says she did her research. She knows what Cassadine Industries was worth when Valentin inherited it, and what it was worth when Nikolas took it back. There was a huge value increase. Is he saying he can do that for ELQ?

Jordan sees Cyrus, and says she thought he left. He says, it’s better to let Monica think she won this round. It makes for a better rematch down the road. She says, Monica is right. He’s underestimating the board and the mayor. Monica and Laura are local legends with clout. Without them, it will be a lot harder to make a legit play for the hospital. He says, good thing he has a secret weapon.

Sam asks Jason, what’s going on? He’d said they couldn’t see each other, and now he wants to meet. He says, sorry; he’ll be quick. He wanted to give her a heads up. Something has been on his mind because of what’s happening with Mike. She asks if Mike is all right, but Jason says, no; he’s deteriorating fast. Sonny is going through hell deciding whether to keep Mike alive or let him go. Jason can’t leave that open to question. If something happens to him, he wants his wishes known. He talked to Diane, and give power of attorney to Carly.

Ned says, Cyrus is meeting with hospital board members? and Olivia says she’s read about him. He’s a wolf in sheep’s clothing. They can’t let him get control. Laura says she knew she could rely on the Quartermaines. Ned says he’ll help, but there’s protocol, and he has to get approval from the family’s stakeholders. Laura asks if he can make happen, and he says, it will take a few days, but he can start right away. She thanks them, and says she’s grateful for their support. She tells them that she’ll leave them to their evening, and to keep her updated. She leaves, and Olivia says, it’s not going to be easy. Any news on who the mysterious interloper is who’s buying shares? Ned says, no, but calling for a vote will force them to surface. It’s high time they learned who they’re dealing with.

Valentin tells Brook, the circumstances are a little different. ELQ is in pretty good shape, while Cassadine Industries was on the brink of insolvency. It’s like rebuilding a bus engine, as opposed to taking one that works and super charging it. Brook says, like fixing something compared to making it better, and Valentin says he’ll make her family fabulously wealthy, and give her music career a boost. It’s a win-win. She says, all she has to do is keep her mouth shut? and he says, right. She can’t tell anyone he has the shares; not her father, her stepmother, or her best friend. She says, what about Uncle Sonny? and he says, that’s a deal breaker. He has no doubt Sonny cares about her, but he can’t do anything to help her music career, or ELQ. She says Sonny used to own shares, until the company reorganized after her great-grandfather’s death. She’s sure they don’t want Sonny anywhere near it. Valentin says, it’s a simple bargain. Stay quiet, and everyone gets what they want, especially her. She says he has a deal.

Nelle says Nina could have made a difference. Nina could have helped her and Wiley, but she chose to stab Nelle in the back. It’s no surprise. It’s what everyone does, and she chose to let herself believe in Nina. Nina says, if every single person stabs Nelle in the back, maybe every single person isn’t the problem. Maybe the problem is Nelle.

Alexis is about to call Neil but puts down the phone.

On the phone, Laura says she spoke to Ned. He’s getting the stockholders together to gather resources to give GH, so Cyrus isn’t a problem. Jordan says, good to know. Jordan tells Cyrus that Laura isn’t going to buy her backing him; she’s too smart. He says Jordan needs to be smarter. He wants the hospital, and she’s going to help him get it.

Sam asks why Jason chose Carly when she’s Danny’s mom? He says because she’s Danny’s mom. He doesn’t want her going through what Sonny is. He doesn’t want Danny holding her responsible, or her even having to explain it to Danny. He’s hoping it’s not necessary, but if it is, he just wants to let her know it’s taken care of. Sam asks if he wants her to thank him. She says she doesn’t think she can, and walks out.

Martin says, so Valentin wants to revisit Sam? Valentin says Sam was convicted of involuntary manslaughter. She’s on parole, and one of the conditions is that she’s not allowed to associate with a known felon, ex or otherwise. Martin says, Jason pleaded nolo contendere on one count of racketing in 2010. His sentence was commuted, but the conviction remains on his record. Valentin says, Sam’s not supposed to associate with her ex, who’s the father of her child. Love makes people do strange things. Martin says he believes the word is crazy. Valentin says, believe what he wants. Just make sure to find out everything about Sam’s parole officer.

Nelle says she thought Nina believed in her, and she trusted Nina to be on her side, but she lied like everyone else. Nina says, no; Nelle lied. That’s her M.O. Lie and lie and lie, and manipulate, and take advantage of people, until either they’re dead or pull back for sheer self-preservation. If Nelle is disappointed again, its time she sees that the person screwing up is her. Nina wishes could say Nelle’s life could change if she changes, but she’s starting to realize it’s not possible, because it’s not who Nelle is. Nelle guesses that’s it. She thought Nina was different. She thought Nina was the one person who cared about her. Nina shakes her head, and Nelle says, that’s okay. She’s used to being let down. She leaves.

Carly asks Sonny if he’s okay, and he says, Turning Woods called, and apparently his dad hasn’t eaten in 24 hours. They need an answer about the feeding tube. If he agrees, at least his dad will get proper nutrition. If Mike didn’t want him to use heroic measures, it would have come up the last time they talked about end stages of life, and it didn’t come up. His dad wants to live. The doctors say they can do this. It’s just standard practice with this type of situation, so he’s going to let the doctors do it. Carly tells him, like she said before, whatever is right for Sonny is exactly what Mike wants. Mike just wants Sonny to be as okay as he can be. Sonny says he’s not okay with any of it.

Next time, Nelle tells Valentin to give her what she needs or she’ll blow him out of the water, Diane wonders if this is how Alexis gets her mojo back, and the doctor tells Sonny that the anesthesiologist is ready to put Mike under.

👢 Stepping In For Sam…

Kelly Monaco had to take a break, and Lindsay Hartley got one. She’ll be temporarily playing Sam in the meantime.

https://www.today.com/popculture/general-hospital-star-kelly-monaco-will-be-temporarily-replaced-lindsay-t188368

Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles

After flying to Scottsdale, Arizona, Tracy headed to Paradise Valley, which she said was like the Beverly Hills of the state. The market there was strong, but affordable. She met with Char, owner of Bella Paradiso, probably one of the largest – if not the largest – house I’ve ever seen on the MDL shows. At 20,000 square feet, it was like a museum. The house had phenomenal views of the Camelback Mountains, and Char explained building the house had been a three year process. A general contractor by trade, Char had the side of a mountain carved out, engineered for a walk-out lower level. The house was patterned after French architecture, and had a butler’s pantry, and a game room with a full bar (there were three bars in all). The kitchen was massive, and exhibited hand-painted tiles, created by the same artist who did Versace’s swimming pool in Miami. There was a his-and-her master bath, that included a washer/dryer and a wet bar. When Char told Tracy that she liked to wash her own linens separately, Tracy was sure they were soulmates. Well, I must be too, since I do the same thing. Just not in a washer/dryer in my master bath. There was also the biggest shower I’ve ever seen outside of a gym, and (no surprise) a walk-in boutique style closet the size of my house. When Tracy saw Char featured her shoes, Tracy had a moment. She loves a shoe display, and said the closet was quintessential feminine perfection. As they talked about the closet, what sounded like porn music played in the background. There were 12.5 baths, and I have no idea how many bedrooms. Probably fifty. The most impressive feature of the house was a toss-up between a custom made table, flown in from Italy for $100K, and the ballroom with columns that lit up and a catering area. The bottom of the table allowed you to see through to the floor below, an idea Char had gotten from the Louvre. Char told Tracy that she let small charities use the ballroom free for fundraisers, and the house had a good, generous heart. Bella sat on 1.21 acres, and was a private compound. Tracy said, in Malibu, the same kind of house would go for $60 to $70 million, and asked why Char was selling, especially since she’d only been there five years. Char said it was the 22nd home she’d built, and she was ready to do it again. She loved the process. She and her husband owned another home down the street, and she was ready to move in. I wondered how very rich these people must be, and wondered if they wanted to adopt an older child. The house had been listed before at almost $23 million, and stayed on the market for some time. Char said agents wanted negotiating room, so they listed it at a big number. She felt it had been a mistake to agree, and wanted a fresh start. Tracy said agents used to do that, but those days were over, and they needed to be super aggressive with the price. Char said she’d had the house appraised, and it was in the $17 million range. She didn’t want to play games, just get it sold, and they decided on $14 million. Tracy said she’d find someone locally to do showings, and they’d throw an incredible event for the relaunch.

JoshA had one day to get offers for the Oriole house, where the sellers were willing to take a lowball offer of $7 million under the asking price of $21.995 million, and Josh would get zero commission. He called potential buyers, and told them that they had to see it today, or no deal. The house had 6 bedrooms, a large entertainer kitchen (which Josh said was his favorite kitchen ever), a butler’s kitchen, pocket doors, unobstructed views, and an infinity pool that I’d give my right arm to swim in if I didn’t need it. The master bedroom was 2000 square feet, and had a dual master bath. There was a climate-controlled wine cellar, a private movie theater with a $4K projector, a gym, and a spa area. Josh was still in shock that the seller entertained the low offer, but they were fed up with the continuous construction in the area, and wanted to move on. Josh showed the house to quite a few potential buyers, who were also concerned about the construction. Josh said that for the next two years, it would be hectic, but it was trophy construction, and the dirt alone was worth $32 million. Josh said everyone loved the house, but no one indicated an offer. Besides the construction being an issue, the timeframe of 24 hours to make a decision was intimidating.

Back in Los Angeles, Tracy met with their team to give them an update on Bella. She said she couldn’t be there for every showing, so she was co-listing with Chris Harris, a local broker who was sophisticated and smart. He’d agreed with her $14 million asking price, but with a caveat. He wanted certain lucky numbers included, and the price was changed to $13,998,648. Tracy was going back to Arizona to throw an event, and Chris was getting the vendors and catering in the meantime. In her interview, Tracy said she thought it would be difficult to find a buyer who’d want that size of a house with a ballroom.

David and James were still trying to sell the Margherita house, which they thought was the perfect family home. They’d had a brokers open, highlighting the double lot, but weren’t getting much action. Getting other buyers in was imperative to get it sold as soon as possible, so they began to do private showings. While I thought the house was charming, a lot of the buyers and agents thought it was dated and needed work. Buyers were more concerned with getting a new house in line with the comps in the area.

Rick from Oriole came to the Altman Brothers building, where Josh pointed out his statue made out of Legos in the lobby. Josh said he’d gotten a $15.5 million, 30 day closing, all cash offer from a good buyer. Rick said it wasn’t much more, but Josh said it was still $500K more than the original offer. Rick told Josh that the realtor’s client hadn’t been on the exclusion list, so Josh would get a commission. Either way it was a win. Josh played both sides, and ended up with the first buyer offering $16.5, all cash (where do these people get this money?), and a 14 day closing. Rick said Josh had a deal, and Josh said it was the first deal in his new office. Only one million more deals to go.

Tracy did a relaunch event at Bella, inviting local brokers, and the top brokers from the coast of California, those she had no doubt would have serious interest. She’d gotten the top restaurant in Paradise Valley to do the catering, and impressed upon the bartender that there would be no plastic. She wanted an exquisite event, and it was. With over 200 people attending, Tracy declared it a massive success, and did a few private showings before she left.

David and/or James said that Margherita was a beautiful, traditional house in an amazing neighborhood, but they’d had no offers. David James thought unless the price was reduced, it wasn’t going to sell. They met with owner Serene, and she said she loved her home, and wanted it to go to the right family. She and her husband were willing to stay as long as they needed to. James said it had been on the market almost 80 days, and they’d been showing it, but hadn’t had any offers. Serene felt there was a buyer for the house out there, and three months wasn’t a long time. James said the house didn’t lack marketing, but the number wasn’t realistic. He said they’d been wrong, and it wasn’t properly priced. In his interview, he said in the real estate business, they didn’t always get it right, but you had to own it when you were wrong. James David said they thought the price should be reduced, and James said if Serene wanted to seriously generate interest, she should price it at $14.995 million, a reduction of $3 million. Serene said she had a number in her head, and that price wasn’t realistic for their retirement. James said, the longer it was on the market, the less desirable it became. David said the response was that it was a great house, but too expensive. In his interview, he said Serene wasn’t the typical client who wanted to overprice the property. She and her husband had made an investment, and wanted the payoff they thought they’d get. The lower figure was stopping their dreams of retirement. James said if they didn’t get an offer in 90 days, they needed to reduce it, or take it off the market. Otherwise, they’d be wasting both their time. In James’s interview, he said they didn’t know what to do or where to go. They were hoping a buyer would show up, but were at a deadlock. There was no choice but to sit and wait.

Next time, JoshF represents a client who knew his grandmother, and Frederik tries to steal a listing back from David and James.

🏢 If You Like That Sort Of Thing…

I’ve tried watching Big Brother, but I just can’t.

https://parade.com/983731/mikebloom/big-brother-22/

💉 Another Kind Of Horror Story…

I can totally see Sarah Paulson as Nurse Ratched.

https://comicbook.com/tv-shows/news/ratched-netflix-cuckoos-nest-series-first-look-sarah-paulson/

🌪 Farewell Isaisis…

The storm made for a dicey day here, especially with the power going on and off – and usually off the second I sat down to type. Hope that nasty dude passed you by, and it’s blue skies ahead. Until next time, stay safe, stay dry, and stay out of every hurricane’s path, the weather kind or otherwise.

Aug4

August 3, 2020 – Finally Nina Testifies, Kiko Packs His Knives and Goes, What To Expect, Another Departure, Resilient Dove, Anxious For Reality, Kevin’s Decade, Free To Be Mindful, Historical Heroes & Shaking

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What I Watched Today

(rambling, random thoughts & annoyingly detailed recaps from real time TV watching)

 

General Hospital

At the WSB facility in Geneva, Switzerland, Dante tosses and turns. He yells, don’t pull the trigger! He wakes, breathing heavily, and says he didn’t kill him. Ned tells Olivia that he may not always know the right words to say, but he loves and cares about her. He’s there for her if she wants to talk more about Dante. She has better idea, and asks if he’d care to join her upstairs. They kiss, and his phone rings. He says the deal he’s been working on just came through, but he definitely has time for a break. Olivia asks if that means squeezing her in before he runs back to ELQ. At the hospital, Portia asks what Cyrus is doing there, and he says he was just asking about her daughter. She tells him to stay away from Trina; don’t even mention her name. Laura approaches, and asks if everything is okay. Brook tells Valentin they’ve never formally met, but she remembers him being there when she hit Lulu with the champagne. He tells her it was a miscarriage justice, and he’s been there. She asks if he’d been completely innocent, and he admits he wasn’t. She says it’s nice to meet him. In court, Nelle clutches the half-heart necklace. Nina has taken the stand, and Martin says Nina is Nelle’s employer; how is she doing? Nina says Nelle is still learning the ropes, but she’s a quick study. She’s competent and a hard worker. Martin asks if that’s why Nina hired her, and Nina says she believed Nelle deserved a second chance. Nelle smiles.

Ned tells Olivia, he’s completely blindsided, and Olivia says she saw him quickly checking the phone while he was pretending to apologize. He says his apology was sincere. He’s been working hard on the Mertin Tech deal, and today it’s a go. He could be at the office. Olivia wonders if she’s an afterthought, and he asks if he’s made her feel like that. She congratulates him on his big deal, and starts to walk out, but he says they’re going to talk about this. He heard her with Robert, and she’d said Robert made her feel better. Before Robert came over, they’d been talking about Dante. She says, she was talking about Dante. They never do. For everyone else, Dante has ceased to exist, but not for her. Lulu has moved on with her life and a new man, and Rocco’s memories are fading. He’s a little boy, and can’t put his life on hold until Dante comes back. Neither can she. Her son is out there, and she may never see him again. Robert is going through something similar with Holly, and maybe they’re both in denial, but Robert made her feel better and not so alone. Ned says she’s not alone. She’s with him.

Dante is in a small locked room with a few furnishings – a bed, a desk, a chair, and a night table. He drinks some water, and throws the plastic cup on the floor. He holds his head, and says, damn headache. He says he has to find a distraction, and tells himself, don’t give in to it. He looks at a pencil and pad of paper on the desk.

Cyrus says it’s good see Laura, and she says he’s always at the hospital. Does he have a health issue? He thanks her for her concern, but he’s healthy except for allergies. He doesn’t mind though. He’s glad to be breathing the Port Charles air, instead of the stale prison air. She’s sure the air is just as exhilarating out west, and he says he’s never seen a mayor so concerned about their constituents. Port Charles is lucky to have her. He says he has an appointment, and leaves. Maybe. Portia says, that man is so disgusting. He made a point of bringing up Trina. She wanted to slap him in his smug face. Laura doesn’t like how he’s flaunting his freedom, and Portia says he’s a known drug trafficker, and Taggert is dead, with his name being dragged through the mud. How is this justice? Laura says she understands.

Martin says Nelle was also nanny to Nina’s stepdaughter, and he’s sure she vetted Nelle carefully. Diane wonders if there’s a relevant question or is he trying to bond with the witness, and Judge Lowe tells him, get on with it. Martin says Nina lost a child. Is it fair to say the loss was difficult? Nina says the loss affected her deeply, and Martin asks if it also created a kinship between mothers. Nina says, it’s a pain no mother should have to bear. It colored her perception. He says she’s worked with Nelle for several weeks. She must have formulated an opinion. Not just about Nelle as an employee, but the kind of mother she’d be. Nina says in the time Nelle has worked for her, Nelle confirmed her initial impression. I lean closer to the TV, and Nina says, Nelle is a compulsive liar. Ha-ha-ha-ha-ha! I knew it.

Brook says she’s flattered Valentin wants to join her, but he says he doesn’t think so. He thinks she’s trying to disarm a worthy opponent, but he doesn’t want her as an opponent. They have things in common. She says, like ELQ. She knows he used Linc to buy her shares.

Laura says she thought Taggert was a good cop, and Portia says, he was. He was devoted to his work. Life wasn’t always easy, but they parted on good terms, and co-parented Trina. Laura asks how Trina is doing in the wake of Taggert’s death, and Portia says, her emotions are all over the place. Sorrow, fear, anger; mostly sorrow. Trina is taking her father’s death hard. Most people don’t know what to say. Or they think Portia is embarrassed that Taggert conspired to frame Cyrus. She’s not embarrassed. He tried to find a legal way, but Cyrus was too smart and slick, so Taggert went by his own code of ethics to put a criminal behind bars. She explained to Trina that he took a stand for what he believed in. Laura says, Trina was lucky to have a father like him.

Nina says, Nelle can’t help herself. She lies about everything, and just uses people. She sees the custody case as a contest she’ll do anything to win. She married Julian… Martin objects, and Diane says, he’s objecting to his own witness. Martin asks for permission to treat the witness as hostile, and Nina says she’s not hostile; he wanted the truth. He tells her to please just answer the questions he asks her. He asks if she’s currently seeing a psychiatrist, and she says, no. He asks if she wasn’t committed to Shadybrook, and Diane objects, saying Nina isn’t on trial. The judge says, sustained, telling martin, that’s quite enough. Martin has no further questions. Diane asks what Nina was going to say before she was so rudely interrupted, and Nina tells her, what she was going to say was that Nelle married Julian to shore up her custody case. She found out Michael had married Willow, and wanted to be on equal footing. Nelle doesn’t love Julian; she’s using him. Martin objects, asking how she can know what’s in his client’s heart, and Nina says she knows because it was clear Nelle blackmailed Julian into marrying her. Carly smiles, and I laugh. My bad day just got better.

Brook asks what Valentin’s angle is, and he asks Brook to tell him. She says he doesn’t want a little piece of a big company. He wants to acquire a major block, but it won’t work. Quartermaines take care of their own, and when she tells her father, no one will even look in his direction, let alone sell to him. Valentin says he’ll make the shareholders much richer, and revive her stalled career.

Nelle says Nina is lying, and asks if Carly threatened her. Judge Lowe tells Martin to control his client, and Diane asks if Nelle actually said she blackmailed Julian. Nina says, not those exact words, but she said she’d resorted to desperate measures, and would do whatever it took. She said Julian valued his life too much not to play by her rules. Diane says, those were her exact words? and Nina says, yes. Nelle jumps up, and says, you double-crossing bitch. She knew she was crazy for trusting a baby stealer. Nina is so starved for attention, she blew up her own wedding to get back at the groom. Now she waited until the 11th hour to make up a story. Was she talking to Carly? What’s her angle? Martin begs her, please be quiet, but she just gets louder. She says Michael resorted to desperate measures and forced Willow to marry him, or she’d sleep with the fishes like everyone else who gets in Sonny’s way. The judge calls for order, and Nelle says Nina is just like everyone else here. Maybe she’s jealous because Nelle’s child is alive, and she’s helping Carly take her baby away. She yells that Carly will never take her baby away. Wiley is hers. Martin says, for God’s sake, stop, and Nelle suddenly clutches her chest and gasps for air, acting like she’s having a heart attack. This is too funny.

After the commercial, Martin thanks Judge Lowe for the brief medical recess. His client was overcome, and apologizes for her outburst. Her need to protect her son is so strong, she lashed out. Diane recalls Willow to the stand, and asks if she was coerced into marrying Michael. Willow says, absolutely not. No one threatened her, or sent her a dead fish or anything. Diane asks if she received financial compensation, and she says, no. Diane says, Michael is a wealthy man. Now she is too. Willow says she’s a credited teacher. She has a good job and values her independence. She doesn’t need Michael’s money. Diane asks why she married Michael, and she says, because he’s a decent man. She knows that doesn’t sound like much, but decency is the foundation of trust, and trust is how you build a life. Michael isn’t perfect, but he’s fair, compassionate, and sees the value in compromise. He doesn’t assume that because he’s richer, he’s better. He’s known grief and loss and injustice, but it hasn’t made him bitter. It’s given him empathy. Her greatest wish is that Wiley will grow up to be a man like his father. That’s why she married him. She wants them to raise Wiley together as a family.

Dante plays with the pencil for a while. He puts it down, then picks it back up. He starts to write.

Olivia says she’s not trying to make Ned feel like he’s being insensitive. He’s the man she loves, and he couldn’t be a better father, but he’s been focused on ELQ at the expense of everything else. Ned says he needs to protect his family, which she and Leo are a part of. She says, but not Dante. She can’t see the family as a corporation; they’re people who love one another, and Dante is one of those people. Ned says she’s right. The family isn’t a corporation, but this family owns one, and his job is to keep it going strong. She says, Michael is the CEO; he doesn’t have to do this by himself. He says Michael has been trying to keep his son away from a madwoman, and even before, he was preoccupied with Wiley for months. She says, so he’s doing this out of the goodness of his heart; choosing not to tell Michael that an outsider is buying up the shares to consolidate power. Ned’s title as CEO is temporary. He says he’s not leading a coup against Michael. He’s trying to manage a crisis. If the outsider acquires enough shares, ELQ risks a hostile takeover.

Brook asks Valentin, who said her career is stalled? He says she’s an excellent singer, but so is every back-up singer in New York. She says she’s not a back-up singer, and he says, no, she’s not. She’s a lead singer, but no one is beating a path to her door, and she blew off her agent. She says Linc is a sleazeball, but he asks if someone else will take a risk with a troublemaker? He can fix it. She asks, how? and he says he can give her visibility and momentum. He can find a producer to work with her, but first she has to work with him.

Judge Lowe says, court is adjourned. He’s going to take everything into consideration. Nelle asks Martin why he didn’t stop Nina, and Julian says, how? Nina was telling the truth. Michael is a decent guy, and Nelle lost her own damn case. She says she proved she was passionate about her child. In her office, Nina looks out the window. Jax comes in, and asks if she’s okay. She says she is. She was just thinking about what happened. She’ll never live down her crazy past. No matter who she is, it’s a sure fire way to discredit her. Jax says, that’s not true, but she says he doesn’t know who she was. She was weak and vindictive…  He tells her, stop. He knows she had a difficult past, but the woman she says she was isn’t who he’s looking at. She proved that in court. She helped an innocent child, and helped the court to see who Nelle is. Nelle showed her true colors, and he’s proud of Nina.

Cyrus thanks board member Tom for his interest, and says he looks forward to hearing from him. When Cyrus is gone, Laura says she saw Tom talking to Cyrus. What did he say? Tom says, they were discussing the future of the hospital. Cyrus listens from around the corner. Laura tells Tom he should think twice about involving himself with Cyrus, but Tom says Cyrus was wrongly accused. Laura says, his sentence was vacated; that doesn’t mean he’s innocent. He tells her that he has to run, and she tries to follow him, saying she’d like to discuss this, but he keeps going. Cyrus asks if there are problems, and she asks why he’s always around. What’s his real interest in the hospital? He says he’s a businessman, and the hospital is having a fiscal crisis. GH is the heart of Port Charles, and it would be a shame if they had to curtail services, or worse, shutter. He might be in a position to provide assistance. She says, his assistance isn’t necessary. The people who have helped close the gap in the past, will in the future. Cyrus says the hospital’s pending litigation might be discouraging to potential donors, but she says they’re a strong community, and take care of their own. He says he admires that. It’s why he wants to give back, and he’s established the Cyrus Renault Foundation for Social Justice. She tells him, GH doesn’t need his money. The Quartermaines have been patrons for generations, and ELQ will step up again to give the hospital support.

Ned tells Olivia that he’s not sounding the alarm, but ELQ could be in jeopardy if this isn’t stopped. She says maybe it’s not the time for him to be CEO, but he says, Michael was asleep at the switch; it started happening on his watch. He’d thought she was on board. She says she was, but now is the time to circle the wagons, and shoot at the enemy, not inward. What good is a family business if it drives the family apart? She thought he would have learned that from past experience, but she guesses he hasn’t. He says he’s trying to keep the family safe, but she says, no. He’s trying keep himself and ELQ powerful. It’s not the same.

Valentin says he’s heard Brook sing, and seen her online videos. She has talent and can make it, but needs the right venue and the right people. She asks if he’s suddenly a music mogul, and he says his interests are varied, and he loves music. He’s a partner in Deception, and wants to use her music for their relaunch at the Nurses Ball… if she’s ready for that level of spotlight. She asks, what’s the catch? and he says she can’t tell her family that he’s accumulating shares. She says, in other words, he’s paying her off. He says, no; those are the words. Her silence for his connections. She says she has to go, and he says he’s enjoyed talking to her, and he’ll see her again.

Nina tells Jax that she initially hired Nelle to spy on her, and get dirt for Michael’s custody hearing. Jax asks if Nelle didn’t solicit the job from Nina. Nina didn’t lure her into a trap. Nelle wanted to use Nina to make herself look good. She says, maybe, but her point is that she started to believe Nelle’s love was sincere, and that she only needed encouragement, and someone to believe in her, like Nina had. Jax says Nina’s trauma was real, and she can’t compare them. Nelle thinks the world owes her. Nina says she saw herself in Nelle. Sometimes the life she has now feels like a dream. Jax says she deserves all the happiness in the world. This is real, and what they have isn’t going anywhere. He hugs her.

Carly tells Diane that she was amazing, but Diane says, don’t thank her yet. She thinks it’s a slam dunk, but the judge is going to deliberate on the testimonies and documents. Carly says Willow was amazing, and Willow says she only spoke from her heart. Diane says Nelle’s only sincere moment was when she went ballistic. In the hallway, Nelle asks if it would have killed Julian to hold her hand or something, and he says, what Nina said was the truth. She says if Nina cost her the case, she’ll never make Nina stop paying. Julian says Nelle cost herself the case. Martin might have been able to spin it, but when she got on her feet, the whole thing was over. He tells her that he’s out of there, and call him when the verdict comes in, and he’ll meet her back at court.

Martin goes to the MetroCourt for a drink, and Valentin says, rough day in court? Martin says Valentin’s ex torpedoed his entire custody case. Valentin says he told Martin not to underestimate Nina. Martin says Valentin mentioned Brook in his text. Did he have an altercation with her? Valentin says she knows he used Linc to get her shares. Martin says Valentin’s ELQ takeover is finished if Brook warns her father, but Valentin says he doesn’t think she will.

Ned tells Olivia, the Quartermaines are tied to ELQ. If he company prospers, so do they. They can be shrewd and ruthless, but if they’re not, someone will swoop in and take advantage. The world isn’t about peace, love, and messages from the great beyond. Olivia says she and Ned might not see eye to eye on psychics, but that’s no reason to be condescending. He says he wasn’t; he was being real. She says so was she. She’s feeling real pain, and her son is real. If he can’t respect those things, he can’t respect her. Brook comes in, and says she got some career advice that she wants to run by Ned.

Dante writes. I miss you, mom. I miss my life, but it’s more important to keep you safe from me. That’s why I’ll never send this letter. He puts the pencil down, folds the paper into a small square, and puts it under his mattress. I assume they don’t change the sheets too often there. He looks out the door window, but there’s a shade covering it. He flips the pencil around.

Cyrus tells Laura, they might not be able to rely on the people who’ve bailed them out in the past. GH might need a new savior. She says he’s not their savior, and he’s not getting anywhere near GH. She has close friends on the board, and there’s no way he’s using the hospital to launder his drug money. He says, she’s formidable, but be careful about false accusations. Don’t underestimate him. He goes into the elevator, and Laura looks shook.

Jax tells Nina that her testimony was truthful. She has nothing to apologize for. She said she’s sorry for buying into Nelle’s charade, but her eyes are open now. He tells her that they’re lovely eyes. He’s meeting his daughter, and asks if she wants to join them, but she says she doesn’t want to intrude on daddy/daughter time. Besides, she has a lot of work. He says he’ll call her later.

Carly tells Michael that she’s heading home. She doesn’t expect they’ll hear from the judge today, but if they do… Michael says she’ll be their first call. She thanks Willow for what she said about Michael, and Willow says she meant every word. Carly says she knows, and leaves. Michael says they have to believe they made the strongest case. He’d suggest a celebratory dinner, but he doesn’t want… They say, to jinx it, together. He says, why don’t they go home and be with Wiley? and she says, sounds great.

Nina looks at her half of the necklace, when Nelle bursts in. Nelle says, how could she? You betrayed me, bitch. The necklace falls to the floor.

Tomorrow, Ned says it’s time they learned who they’re dealing with, Sonny has a terrible decision to make, and Nina suggests Nelle get her facts straight.

Absolutely. Worth the. Wait.

Below Deck Mediterranean

Captain Sandy tells Kiko, just get through the charter, and Kiko says, then leave. She nods, and she tells him, do your food. In the captain’s interview, she says she feels like she’s hammering at the guy. He continues to pour his heart into the food, but it’s off. You can like someone a lot, but if they’re not trained properly, they have to be let go. Kiko says he’s a failure, but she says he’s not. He doesn’t want to talk about it, and he’s worried he’ll be the reason they make less money. One of the guests says they’re done with fried food for the rest of the charter, and primary Sean says, speak for himself. Kiko tells Hannah that Captain Sandy said he’s not capable. The guests complained that it looked like kid food. He’s never been to Vegas, and didn’t know what to do. Hannah cries on deck, and says she hates this effing job. In her interview, she says she feels like she let Kiko down. She suggested the menu, and she’s shaken to her core. Kiko says he wasn’t prepared for this kind of charter, took a risk, and screwed up. He’s the most sad ever. Bugs tells Malia that she feels sorry for him, but he wanted honesty. Malia says, he’s the sweetest person ever. Hannah tells the deckhands that they’re doing the strip club thing now. In her interview, Bugs says, it’s heartbreaking but this is yachting. The show must go on. A guest says, this is Vegas. Whatever happens here, stays here, the deckhands and Bugs get ready. The guys dress in black pants with suspenders and no shirts.

The crew comes out, and Malia does a handstand. They all run around the table, gathering dollar bills in their waistbands. Kiko cries in his bunk. Captain Sandy sees Hannah in the galley, and asks why she’s shaking. Is she upset about Kiko? Hannah says, yeah, but not much else; she just keeps working. Alex plays dealer for the guests’ poker game, and Bugs clears the dinner table. Jess gives Hannah a hug, and Hannah checks on Kiko. She says she effing likes him, and if he’s in pain, she’s in pain as well. He says he doesn’t have the mind or energy to cook, and she tells him that she’ll get up and help with breakfast. She hugs him, and he says they have real love. She’s a good person. She says he is too, and they vow to be friends forever. The guests go to bed, and Rob asks Jess for a quick kiss. In Rob’s interview, he says he feels deeply saddened. Kiko is a beautiful person. He tells Kiko that he’s sorry.

Hannah wakes up at 4 am, breathing heavy. She gets up, and goes into the bathroom. Malia asks if she’s okay, and she says she thinks it’s a panic attack. She needs a valium, and thinks it will pass. Malia asks if she has a prescription, and gives her a hug. She asks again if Hannah is okay. Hannah says she will be, and Malia goes back to bed. Hannah gets her phone, and gets back in her bunk. I assume she took a valium.

Third day of charter. Jess sets the breakfast table, making the napkins look super cool. Captain Sandy goes to the galley, and tries to make conversation with Kiko. She thanks him, and in her interview, she says, as captain, it’s hard to fire people. She hired her nephew once, and her first officer said he was terrible. She had to say, sorry, dude. You have to go. It’s not about liking someone; it’s about if a person can do the job. She tells Jess, good job, and she’s not just saying that; she’s honest. Kiko tells Jess, he just can’t do it. He doesn’t have the energy for this anymore. In his interview, he says he just wants to leave. After preparing some fruit plates, he packs his knives, and prepares to go. He tells Jess that he’s leaving, and Bugs asks if he’s doing actual breakfast, but he gets back in his bunk. Alex tells Malia, it’s a shame; everyone likes him. Captain Sandy wonders where the chef is, and Bugs says, in his cabin. Sandy knocks, and asks to talk to him. He tells her that his head is f***ed up, and she asks him to leave his emotions in his cabin, and do the job. Please. Let’s finish this together. They just have one more night, and he can do this. Do his food. He brings his knives back out.

Kiko tells Hannah that his food is emotional, and he feels sad. Hannah says she’ll help with breakfast. Captain Sandy tells Malia, ready when she is, and they pull out of port. Hannah makes reservations under the boat’s name for the guests’ land excursion. The captain says it’s a beautiful day, and they need it after last night. Malia tells Captain Sandy that Hannah is freaked out, and feels bad. The captain says, it’s sad, and Malia says it all comes back to her, and the standards she allows on the boat. The captain says, that’s why she’s in that seat.

The boat goes to Valldemossa, and drops anchor. Hannah tells Jess and Rob, they’re going on an excursion. There will be a taxi waiting on shore, and they can drop the guests off for lunch. Any decisions they make, she doesn’t care. Rob says it’s their first date, and Bugs jokes that she remembers her first date with Alex; it was romantic. Hannah asks the guests if they’re ready to rock and roll, and the guests board the tender. Captain Sandy asks to speak with Hannah in the office, and asks, what’s wrong besides Kiko? Hannah says, when someone is really emotional, it’s infectious. The captain says she wants to finish strong. She told Kiko to do his food. She wants to lift him back up. She says Hannah can always talk to her, and she just wanted to make sure Hannah was okay. Hannah says she just wanted to help Kiko, and thinks it’s good the guests are off the boat for lunch. Captain Sandy thanks her for talking. I love Captain Sandy. She’s the boss we all would love to have.

Rob tells Jess, she’s the voice of the operation, and the guests dub them JOB – Jess and Rob. Crystal says they can hold hands; no one cares. Captain Sandy makes a call for a chef. She knows it’s crazy busy, but send what they can. Jess gives a tour, reading from a pamphlet, and pronounces Chopin like choppin’. In her interview, she says the city is beautiful, but she keeps staring at Rob. They kiss, and the guests take a picture. They deposit the guests at the restaurant, and the guests toast to JOB. Rob asks Jess how her finger is, and she says, a lot better.

Alex massages Bugs’s shoulders while she washes dishes. In her interview, Bugs says Alex is too young for her, but she prides herself on being a bit of a cougar. Rob and Jess hang out on a restaurant terrace. In Rob’s interview, he says he and his mother understood each other, and it was the last time he felt seen. With Jess, he feels seen – and heard, which is nice. Sean says, everyone in the crew has good energy, and another guest says it takes a lot to deal with him. Rob tells Jess that he loves her, and asks if that’s crazy. She says, kind of, and he apologizes for scaring her. In his interview, he says, she didn’t say it back. He doesn’t know if she’s just holding back. He can’t tell, but he doesn’t want to hold back.

Malia calls her boyfriend Tom, and tells him they’re down a person; the chef. He’s been crying, but he needs more practice. In her interview, Malia says Tom has been there too, since he’s a chef. The first time he worked on a 16 meter, he said he would never do it again. It’s a hard position to do. Hannah tells Kiko to talk to the captain. She thinks it would be disrespectful to the clients and captain if he leaves now. He says he was going to finish dinner, and cut stuff up for the morning, but he’ll finish the job. In his interview, he says, at least he’s not a quitter. Malia volunteers her rapping skills for the 90s party, and works on some rhymes. Jess calls Bugs, and says they’re on their way back. When they return, Bugs welcomes the guests.

Bugs radios Malia, telling her, two of the guests want to jet ski. Malia says, be careful; it’s pretty choppy. Malia radios Rob to come and keep eyes on them. She tells Captain Sandy, the conditions are rough. The guests are very good, and Malia says she’s loving it. Rob is with Jess in her cabin, and taking his time. Rob says there’s too much going on, and Jess isn’t communicating. Now he’s in his head. Jess says she’s scared to fall in love and get hurt. He says he doesn’t want to get hurt either. Malia radios again, and in her interview, she says, after what happened two days ago, they all need to watch. There’s two people out there, and she can’t save them both. Jess tells Rob that she wanted to say it, and felt it, but part of her has fear. In her interview, she says it’s hard for her to trust. She gets it from both parents. They divorced when she was two, and her mother stayed in Florida, while her dad moved to California. They wanted to stay as far away from each other as possible. The guests come back in, and Malia says, thank God they knew what they were doing.  

Ron finally shows up, and Malia asks where he was. He says, in the bathroom, and she tells him to let her know if he has to run somewhere, or she’ll wonder where he disappeared to. In Kiko’s interview, he says he wishes he could stay, but he knows he’s got no second chance. It’s hard for him to get chances in the first place, and he prefers to stick with his style and kill it. He’ll do that for dinner, then he’ll be finished. He tears up again. Hannah asks if the guests are excited about the 90s party, and Captain Sandy tells Pete to get pizza. She’s not asking Kiko to make crew food. The guests toast to living life to the fullest. Malia tells Kiko that her boyfriend has a soft spot for him. He’s been there, and was completely broken, but now he has a huge career. It’s not the end for him. Guest Richard gives Hannah a ring to put in the dessert for his wife Karen’s birthday. Pete is going to pick up the pizza, and Hannah tells him to stop at a patisserie. He doesn’t know what that is, so she says, a bakery.

Bugs comes out wearing crazy tights. The deck is decorated with streamers, lots of neon, and glow sticks. Captain Sandy thinks the décor is cool. Pete asks the pizza guy if they have cakes, and gets something to bring back. The captain asks Kiko if he’s doing dinner Kiko style, and he says he is. The guests are dressed like recording artists from the 90s, bringing parental advisory signs with them. They’re happy with the décor. In her interview, Hannah is praying Kiko serves a good meal, so they can leave on a high. Please. The entrée is spinach mash and grilled sea bass, and they say it’s delicious and perfect, and ask if Kiko will come out. Bugs asks Kiko to see the guests, and he reluctantly goes upstairs. They chant his name, and he tells them, enjoy. In Kiko’s interview, he says, the night feels good. He’s making everybody happy, and it’s just cool. He cries some more. Bugs says she heard them cheering; well done. Kiko and Hannah hug, and he says he’ll miss her. Hannah says she doesn’t want to stay on the stupid boat without him. What is she going to do? She puts the ring on a slice of chocolate cake. The desserts are brought up, and one guest says, Kiko is a pro at desserts. Hannah tells Karen that she heard it was her birthday. Karen sees the ring, and is obviously thrilled. She starts to cry, and hugs Richard.

Malia says she has zero dignity, and Hannah introduces her as their 90s throwback. Alex and Bugs back her up as she raps about the crew, and the guests are drunk enough to appreciate it. Jess hugs Rob, and says, they’re crazy tonight. They kiss. The guests dance. Alex says they’re his favorite charter, and Crystal says they’re her favorite crew. Malia texts Tom that she can’t wait to see him.

Final day of charter. Kiko makes breakfast, and Captain Sandy tells Jess, great job with the table. She tells Malia to start hauling anchor. Jess says she wants to sleep this afternoon. Kiko says, so does he, but he wants to have six beers first. In his interview, he says it’s been good, bad, and good again. He got the job because he took a risk. He takes chances and risks, and has both good and bad in his life because of that. The anchor is in the pocket, and Bugs tells the guests, good morning. In the galley, she asks if Jess has been writing down the breakfast orders for the chef, and Jess says, no. Hannah tells her to start doing that, or she’ll get a rude awakening when they get a new chef. In Hannah’s interview, she says, Kiko has been a breath of fresh air in the galley, compared to other chefs, and we flash back to some of those. She says she wishes he could stay. Bugs says, the 90s party wiped the guests out. Malia tells Captain Sandy about Tom coming to visit. He’s on the way to see his family, and stopping by. The captain asks if he’s currently employed, and Bugs says she was thinking the same thing. Malia says he does freelance, and Captain Sandy tells Malia to have Tom come see her, if she’s comfortable with that. Malia says, it would be amazing. The crew gets in their whites.

Malia tells Crystal that docking is the most critical moment. Crystal tells her that she looks pretty doing it, and Malia’s interview, she says she’d rather be told she’s a pretty powerful person. The boat docks, and the crew lines up to say goodbye. Sean says, nice work; it was the best one yet. In Kiko’s interview, he says he doesn’t want the captain’s opinion, and to hear what he already knows. He’s just leaving. Sean says they’re going to make a U-turn and come back. Kiko tells them that he cooked with love. Crystal says, it was an incredible experience. Their every need was catered to, and she’s so happy, she’s crying. Sean gives Captain Sandy the tip envelope. In Hannah’s interview, she says, it’s ironic. The guests had an amazing, memorable time, and say they made nine new friends, but one friend was fired in the middle of dinner service. The captain tells them to gather in the main salon for the tip meeting. Kiko says goodbye to everyone, and Malia tells him that he’ll be all right.

Kiko and Hannah sit on the dock, and Kiko says they’ve known each other for a short time, but they’ll be friends forever. He tells her how much he loves her, and says, it’s not bullsh*t. She says she doesn’t want him to leave, and he tells her, don’t cry. She says she’s not, but she is. In Kiko’s interview, he says it was the best experience of his life. He cried and he laughed. He likes to cook, and had good and bad moments. There were jokes made, and he made friends. He’s learned to try not to effing care what people think too much, and he’s going to follow what he learned. He’s going to follow what he loves, be himself, and spread love to the world, and it will be a better world. Hannah calls out that she loves him. Bugs says there were a lot of changes in a short space of time, with a new second stew and chef. Hanna tells Rob, it shouldn’t have gone down like that.

Next time, the crew parties, Bugs comes on to Alex, the owner arranges a day off for the crew, Jess says she and Rob went from PG to rated R, Tom arrives, and Captain Sandy says it’s been brought to her attention that someone has drugs on board.

🏥 It’s Ba-a-ack…

What to expect from your favorite hospital.

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/frank-valentini-previews-what-to-expect-from-new-episodes

👴🏻 A Curmudgeon Since He Was 30…

He might have been 85, but he’s looked 85 ever since I can remember.

https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/wilford-brimley-dead-cocoon-actor-937941

🕊 Dove Flies Through Surgery…

As much as I don’t like Teddi, I’m glad her new daughter is doing well.

https://people.com/parents/teddi-mellencamp-calls-5-month-old-daughter-dove-resillient-after-neurosurgery/

😬 Real Anxiety…

Sounds like Four Weddings.

https://greatist.com/live/reality-tv-show-social-anxiety

🌫 Silent Bob Reflects…

Kevin Smith recalls the last decade.

https://comicbook.com/movies/news/kevin-smith-reflects-on-the-last-decade-for-50th-birthday/

🧎🏽‍♀️ Free Contemplation…

I can’t empty my mind, but maybe you can.

https://rubinmuseum.org/events/series/mindfulness-meditation?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIm9DE5tqA6wIVi4TICh1j7QdGEAAYASAAEgII4PD_BwE

🦸🏾‍♂️ Heroes You Should Know…

This might be a site for kids, but it’s good for adults too.

https://redtri.com/black-history-figures/

🎀 Tying It Up…

It looks like it’s going to be another one of them there weeks. I hope yours is off to a better start, and you stay safe, stay strong-minded, and stay determined to make this a better world. Like Kiko.