Monthly Archives: April 2022

April 18, 2022 – Valentin Returns From His Recovery, Emotionally Drained On Deck, Dead Talk, This Year’s Festivities & Blue

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Brad brings a food tray over to an outside table, and Britt says, carbs, sugar, and sugar. He says, they need energy, and she asks if it isn’t a bit overboard. He says, it’s not every day he gets to help his bestie find the love of her life. Pull up those matches, and lets pull some in.

Anna thanks Laura for coming by on such short notice, and Laura says she’s happy to do it. It actually gives Jake and Aiden some guy time with Grandpa Kevin. They join Felicia and Robert in the living room, and Anna says, she and Felicia just got back, and they have some information they wanted to share. Felicia says, they have a lead on the Ice Princess, and Laura asks if they found the diamond. Anna says, they did, and they should both know, a suspect has been arrested in regard to Luke’s murder.

At the hospital, Elizabeth calls over to Portia, and says, they have a problem.

Harmony goes to Brendon’s hotel room, and flashes back on him saying that Neil kept her file in a lockbox that he got when Neil died. He had no idea Neil had incriminating information on Harmony, such as her daughter Willow not really being her daughter. A housekeeper comes by, and asks if she can help Harmony. Is she a guest?

As Finn stacks the chairs after an AA meeting, Alexis tells him that she’s sorry she didn’t get to say hi earlier. He says, that’s okay, and she says, his understanding is very moving. She would have been there on time, but she got held up at work. He says, trouble in the Fourth Estate? and she says, pushy freelancer. He asks if she’d care to share.

Curtis sits on the bench at Pier 54, the new hangout, and flips a chip in his hands. He flashes back to telling Selena that his last term is non-negotiable. There will be no games unless she gets him the information he asked for. She tells him, then they have a deal, and they shake hands. He gets up just as Jordan walks through.

Harmony tells the housekeeper, she just checked in and seems to have lost her key. She digs in Brendon’s bag, and says she found it. She shows the housekeeper the keycard, and the housekeeper tells her to enjoy her stay. She lets herself into the room.

Alexis tells Finn that she invited Harmony to live with her, and he asks how Kristina took that. She says, better than Sam, and he says, ow. She says, Harmony was a good friend to her at Spring Ridge, so she wanted to help her out. He says, being a friend is one thing; letting them move in is… She says, temporary. It’s just until Harmony finds a place of her own. It turns out that Harmony has more than a familiarity with her house. She’s apparently been there before, knew her way around… when she was trying to recruit Kristina, that whole Dawn of Day thing. After all the time she spent with Harmony at Spring Ridge, Alexis thought she knew her, and now that Harmony is living in her house, she doesn’t feel like she knows Harmony at all.

Robert asks, so who was it? and Anna says, they arrested Jennifer Smith. He says, Jennifer Smith killed Luke? and she asks him to please hear her out, because it is possible actually. Not only was the diamond found in her safe, the WSB has information connecting her to the cable car inspector who caused the accident that killed Luke. He asks why Jennifer would kill Luke, and Felicia says, it was no secret that Jennifer still carried a torch for Luke. They were thinking she stole the Ice Princess to lure him back to her, but unfortunately, her scheme went south and he was killed in the process. Robert asks if she’s working with Victor, but Anna says, as of now, there’s no evidence that she was. He says, so with all the evidence collected over all these months, do they really believe they’ve found justice for their friend?

Brad says, obviously, the duckpin bowler is out, and Britt says, obviously. Too bad though; he’s pretty. Brad says, yeah, but he’s way too proud of those pins. Swipe. Number two’s got a nice jawline. She says, but her mother says that’s a sign of weakness. He says, she showed these to her mother? and she says, her mother was overjoyed to help. Unfortunately, she has different criteria than Britt does. Brad says, obviously. He supposes one could do worse than Scotty, and she says, given her mother’s history, he’s a step up. He says, number three seems adventurous. Danger’s sexy, right? She says, why? Because he likes to go skydiving and mountain climbing. Those are all outdoor activities. He says, sorry. He thought Jason had opened her up to more adventurous things. She says, yeah, like crossing international borders with falsified documents, not whatever that is. She points to the tablet, and Brad says, it’s called spelunking. She says, it sounds like something private, and he asks if they should keep doing this. Everyone’s boring after a killer for hire. She says, Jason was not a hired killer, and he says, right. That was a steady job. How about if they do it like this. What is her selection criteria? She has six perfectly good matches here, and she isn’t into any of them. Does she even want to meet someone?

Elizabeth says she’s missing Portia’s notes from Mr. Clark’s exam yesterday, and Portia says she’s sorry. She didn’t get to do that before she left. The notes from the physical exam are in there, and everything else is the same as it was the day before. Elizabeth says she needs the notes from yesterday so she can properly fill out the discharge paperwork, and Portia says, she’ll do it later. Just do what she can with what she has. Elizabeth says she can’t, but Portia says, Mr. Clark isn’t critical. Obviously, that’s why he’s being discharged. Elizabeth has everything she needs, so maybe she could help Portia out a little bit here. Elizabeth says she has her own work to take care of, and her own patients she needs to see. It’s not the nurse’s job to make sure the doctors turn in their exam notes.

Jordan says, she and Curtis have to stop running into each other like this. How is he? He says he’s good, and her? She says she’s still here, so she can’t complain. How are things at home? He says, the damn reporters are hounding Trina, and she asks if they need the police to step in. He says, they’re handling it, and she says, let her know. She just came from Spoon Island. Spencer and Esme gave Officer Lopez their statements regarding Josslyn and Cam’s leaked sex tape. She thought she’d follow up in person. He says, both of them, or just one? and she says, Esme Prince’s name has come up numerous times throughout this investigation, but she’s just gathering more information to fill out the case. He asks how that went, and she says, unfortunately, the staff made it clear neither Esme nor Spencer would speak to her without a lawyer, so she’ll have to try some other time. He says, she’s the Police Commissioner. Couldn’t she get a detective to go out to Spoon Island? She says, he knows her. She likes to get elbow deep in a case now and then. It reminds her of why she became a cop. He says, making sure justice is served, and she says, if she’s learned anything from her past mistakes, it’s that justice can’t be served without the truth. He says, in that case, Port Charles is lucky to have her as their Commissioner.

Britt says she does want to meet someone, and Brad says, that was enthusiastic. She says, it’s very overwhelming. She goes from zero men to six? Why does she need that many matches? He says, she doesn’t have to date all of them at once, and she says, the point is, one man is enough trouble. He says he wishes he had that kind of trouble, and she says, then let’s get you a man. What is he doing tonight? He says, watching Scandinavian crime dramas without subtitles, and seeing if he can still follow the story and crime. Why? She says, they’re going to The Savoy. She’ll be his wingwoman. He says he’s not going out. His chances are better if he had a job. Speaking of which, has she heard from Terry about him working at GH? She says she hasn’t seen Terry much lately, and he says, they’re Co-Chiefs of Staff, and Britt says, she’s seen her, but they just had other matters to discuss. He says, more important than helping her bestie get a job? and she says she put in a good word for him. She got him the meeting. There’s nothing more she can do. He says, he knows. She’s right. She’d done more than he deserves, and he’s grateful. It’s just that he hasn’t heard anything. If the answer’s no, just tell him. She says, no news is no news, and Terry puts a lot of thought into things like this. He says, how complicated is hiring an orderly? and she says, except when the orderly is him. He says, is that really it? Or is there something she’s not telling him?

Finn says, about this Harmony business. Does Alexis want some advice, or does she just want him to listen? She says she really just wants him to listen, and he says he’s here if she needs him. She says, what about him? How are things with him and Elizabeth? He says, complicated. His very presence in her life is causing problems. She says, how so? and he says, speaking of an unwanted presence in one’s home…

Portia tells Elizabeth, very succinctly put. She’ll get on it right now. Is there anything else? Elizabeth asks Portia to go to a more private spot, and says she didn’t mean to come down on her, but Portia says, Elizabeth is right. She’s not doing her job properly. Elizabeth says, Portia’s got a lot going on. It’s not like anyone got hurt. Portia says, and she didn’t run out of time; she forgot. She’s been so preoccupied with everything’s that going on with Trina. It slipped her mind; she’s forgetting things. Elizabeth says she understands. Portia’s going through a lot. Portia says, Elizabeth is too. How is she holding up? Elizabeth says, it’s overwhelming, she’s exhausted, and on top of everything that’s going on at home, she’s working extra shifts. Portia says, when Elizabeth says, what’s going on at home, she means this mess with Joss, Cam, and the video? and Elizabeth says, among other things.

Finn tells Alexis, they’ve been trying to find out who’s stalking Elizabeth, but so far, no luck. Jake and Aiden are staying at Laura’s, PCPD patrol cars are watching the house, and all of this has taken its toll on Elizabeth. She says she can only imagine. How is he dealing with all of this? He says he feels helpless. It’s hard on her, it’s hard on him, and it’s hard on the relationship. He’s not going anywhere; he’s going to be there for her, even though she believes she can handle everything herself. He’s afraid he’s the reason things are getting worse. Feel free to disagree with him or make a suggestion at any time. She says, Kevin… He asks what that means. Collins? She says, psychiatrist. He helped her; he’s good. Maybe he can help Elizabeth clarify her perception of that moment.

Harmony comes out of the room with an accordion file, and looks through it. She closes it back up, holds it to her chest for a moment, and puts it in Brendon’s bag. She looks around, and leaves.

Robert says, it’s kind of ironic about Luke dying at the hands of a scorned woman, and Laura says, Jennifer had been obsessed with him for decades. Felicia says, not to mention, she had the nerve to show up at Luke’s memorial service, but Laura says, except when she talked to Jennifer that day, she seemed like she was genuinely grieving. Anna says, and she vehemently protested her innocence. She insisted she was framed. She says she never would have done this; she loved Luke. Laura says, it just doesn’t make any sense to her. If Jennifer wanted to get to Luke, why would she need the Ice Princess to do that? And then to rig a cable car accident that would kill a lot of innocent people? That’s just not in Jennifer Smith’s league. If you ask her, that’s a Cassadine move. Anna says, exactly. They had their doubts Jennifer could be behind Luke’s death. Laura says, it has to be Victor, and Anna says, agreed. Unfortunately, they can’t connect him at this time. Meanwhile, the WSB has evidence implicating Jennifer, and their theory, no matter how implausible, is still possible. Laura says, the thing to remember about the Cassadines is, if everything points to them except the evidence… Anna says, they’ve arranged for the evidence to point elsewhere, and Laura says, exactly. There’s something else she wants to tell them about. The other day, Victor gave her the hard sell about combining forces, to protect the family from some ominous threat in the future. Robert tells them not to forget, Victor has been after Drew, hoping to trade on that mind control rubbish of Helena’s, and Felicia says, here’s a thought. Is it possible that whatever Victor’s up to is completely unconnected to the Ice Princess? Anna says, no, because Victor comes to town. He’s planning to use Drew for some nefarious purpose. At the same exact time, Luke dies, and the Ice Princess is stolen. It’s not a coincidence. She doesn’t believe it’s a coincidence no matter what the WSB says. Felicia asks what they can do to prove Victor’s involvement, and Robert says, he can think of a sure fire way to find out if Victor is involved with this.

Alexis walks into her office, and Valentin is in her chair, the back facing her. He turns around to face her, and says, he’s always wanted to do that, but she says she has the feeling it’s not his first swivel. Now hug her. They hug, and he says, it’s always good to see her, and she says, it’s good to see him too. He says he sees the rumors are true, and she says he’ll have to narrow it down. He says, word on the street is, while he was away recovering, she was greatly improving her circumstances. Nice. He loves the quote. He picks up the placard, and she says, so does she, taking it out of his hand and putting it back on the desk. Harmony Miller gave it to her. He says, who? Shiloh’s fixer with the DoD? How did that happen? She thinks Harmony found it online, and asks how he is. He says, he’s fine. He’s back and better than ever. She says she’s sure he’s glad to be reunited with Charlotte, and he says, after the incident with Peter, he sent her away to boarding school. Alexis says, Peter’s dead. She doesn’t think he can kidnap Charlotte again. He says he wishes he had been the one who killed Peter, and she says, he’d have had to take a number. He says, speaking of numbers, hers are impressive. Circulation’s up, and her online presence is spectacular. She says, why is he being nice to her? What does he want? He says he’s had some time to think, and it occurs to him that a media company in the family could be very useful. She says, could it now? and he says, as it happens, his father agrees.

Harmony goes the MetroCourt bar, and asks for whiskey, neat. Make it a double. The bartender says, rough day? and she says he has no idea. She sits at the bar, and flashes back to Brendon threatening to go to the police, and her pushing him off the cliff. The bartender brings her drink, and she remembers telling Willow that she’s the most important thing to her in the world, and she loves her. Then she flashes back to Brendon saying, what if he tells Michael this information? If Nina finds out Willow is her biological daughter, oh boy, will that complicate the visitation case. She takes out the folder with her name on it, and puts it back in the bag. Willow says, mom?  

Portia asks if Elizabeth thinks it’s the same person who put the wedding ring in her locker, and Elizabeth says, it makes sense. Portia says, this is terrifying. She’s sorry Elizabeth is going through this. Elizabeth says she appreciates it, and Portia says she owes Elizabeth an apology. She’s been so preoccupied with Trina, she hasn’t checked in. Elizabeth says he hasn’t checked in with Portia either. They’re just stressed. Portia’s phone beeps, and she says she has to check on a patient. Elizabeth says, go. They’re okay, all right? Portia says, yeah.  

Britt says, the truth is, she did speak to Terry about Brad’s interview, and Brad says, he takes it that it was a hard pass, but Britt says, no. Terry hasn’t made a decision, but she didn’t shut it down either, so that’s a good sign, right? She thinks Terry is actually open to hiring him. He says, that’s amazing. So how can he move the needle? She knows how Terry thinks. How does he get an advantage? He really wants this job. Britt flashes back to Selena saying, imagine she has all the proof she needs to send Britt back to prison for good. She has plans for Brad, and changing bedpans isn’t part of them. Britt is to keep Brad on the right path. The challenge is, while Britt is pulling Brad’s strings, he’ll never know Selena is pulling hers. Britt tells Brad, do nothing, and he asks if she’s afraid he’ll embarrass himself again. She says, no. She’s wondering if he really wants to be an orderly. He says, Terry made it clear she wouldn’t consider him for anything else, and she says, then don’t work at GH. Hold off for something better.

Jordan says she told Curtis why she’s here; his turn. He says he’s just clearing his head, getting some fresh air, and she asks if there’s any chance he’s going all the way to Spoon Island to clear his head. He says, she knows him, and she says she’ll leave him to it. Are they good? He says, yeah. Why wouldn’t they be? She says she didn’t get Marshall’s sealed arrest records for him, but he says, no. He’s past that. They’re good. She says, in that case, if his thoughts do take him to Windymere, don’t let Esme and Spencer get under his skin. He has a new family now, and they need him. He thanks her for the advice, and she walks off. Selena comes out, and says she thought Jordan would never leave.

Robert says, all he’s suggesting is that Anna use her closeness with Valentin for the greater good. Laura says, it’s a lot to ask, and Robert says, if Valentin is on the side of the good guys, as he claims to be… Anna tells him, stop it. Don’t push it. Even if she did get Valentin to tell them something, he wouldn’t trust it. He says, maybe not, but all he’s suggesting is that she uses her relationship with Valentin for something bigger, and Felicia says, what relationship?  

Alexis asks, since when does Valentin care what Victor thinks? and Valentin says, he’s had some time to think, and despite his many faults, he thinks there’s something to said about Victor’s notion of family unity. She says, Cassadines take to family like sharks take to chum. If Victor wants to get close to Valentin, he’s not being paternal; he’s hungry. Valentin says, we have a rare opportunity; it’s unprecedented. She says, you tell Uncle Victor that we don’t have a family paper. It doesn’t belong to her, and even if it did, she’d never allow the Cassadines to use it as a mouthpiece. What does Valentin think he wants it for anyway? Valentin says, the greater good, and she tells him, said no Cassadine ever. He tells her not to turn her back on what’s left of the Cassadine family, but she says she has daughters – and him. He says she’ll always have him, and she says, not if Victor’s attached. He tells her, think about it, because he has. You can’t pick your family. She says, on the contrary, you have to, and he leaves.

Willow asks what brings Harmony back here, and Harmony says, just to unwind. Please join her. Unless Willow is here with Michael. She knows she’s just a third person. Willow says, Michael went to the gym. She was planning on going to GH to study, but she’s a little under the weather, so she decided to have some soup while she studies. Harmony asks if she needs to see a doctor, but Willow says, it’s probably a stress headache from Nina. She’s sorry. Harmony said she needed to unwind. She doesn’t need Willow dumping her stress on her. Harmony says, Willow can tell her anything anytime. She’ll be here for her as long as she can. Willow says, as long as she can? Is she going somewhere?

Finn comes out of the hospital elevator and sees Elizabeth. She says she’s glad to see him. Dante called. They couldn’t find any fingerprints on the defaced painting other than hers and Jake’s, and they couldn’t trace where the paint came from. It looks like they hit another dead end. He says, for now. Chase is a good detective. He’s at her place right now, and Finn knows he’s going to turn something up. She says she wishes she hadn’t taken that stupid sleeping pill that night. Maybe she could remember what the figure looked like. He says, there’s a way she could remember.  

Britt says, this is the perfect opportunity for Brad to start over. He can do anything he wants with his life. He says he wants the life he had before prison, but since that’s not possible… She says, that’s right; it’s not. So why settle for crumbs of what he used to have. Don’t limit yourself. Has he even considered other options? He asks if she doesn’t want him working at GH, and she says she wants him to have everything he’s dreamed of, and this is not that. This is a crappy version of it – literally. Don’t limit yourself. He says he’s not qualified to do much else outside of medical fields, and with his background, no hospital will hire him without someone there to vouch for him. Working at GH is best thing for him, even as an orderly. She tells him that she’s saying, just keep his options open. He says, his only other option he has is working for his aunt, and they both know, no good can come from that.

Curtis says, Selena’s messenger said she wanted to meet him there. He’s guessing she has information for him. She says, they had a deal. She gets him information on Marshall Ashford, and he lets her host poker games at his club. He asks if she was able to get the police report, and she says, yes and no. He says, either she’s got it or she doesn’t, and she says, her people were able to access Witness Protection files, but they came up empty handed on Marshall Ashford. Her people don’t fail; there is no file. Marshall Ashford was never in Witness Protection.

Felicia says she knew Anna was spending a lot of time with Valentin, but a relationship? Anna says, they’re getting off topic now. She agrees with Laura that there are too many loose ends, and that’s because all the missing pieces are being concealed by Victor. Felicia says, they still have one bit of evidence, and Anna says, Jennifer insists she had a man in her room, a French naval captain, and that he planted the diamond in her safe. Laura asks if this French captain has a name, and Felicia says, Françoise Olivier. Anna says, but they couldn’t locate him before they had to leave, and Robert says, maybe Jennifer invented him to save her own skin. Felicia says, no. She spoke with the bartender and he confirmed there was a man Jennifer was friendly with. Robert says, maybe she lured him to her room as a patsy, and Laura says, it wouldn’t be the first time. Anna says she doesn’t want to rule anything out; Jennifer’s guilt or Victor’s potential involvement.

Brad says, don’t work at GH? Why the change… Britt’s phone dings, and he says, something urgent? She says, yes, that, and takes the tablet. She got a notification from Society Set-Ups that she has matches to review. As if she forgot. He asks why she’s dragging her feet. She has a perfect selection of guys there. She says, so great they need a matchmaker? and he gives her a look. She says, she’s different. She’s using a matchmaker because she has a pushy mother. He hopes she didn’t put that in her profile, and she says, maybe this is hopeless. What kind of future can she hope for with any of these guys? He asks what she means by that.

Finn suggests making an appointment to see Doc, and Elizabeth says, she’s all for therapy, but she doesn’t see how talking about it will solve this particular problem. She doesn’t even know where she’d find the time, but he says, nothing long term. Doc specializes in therapies that recover memories, right? Perhaps if she worked with him to clarify what she saw, it could lead them to whoever’s harassing her. She says she doesn’t know, and he says, it would be up to her of course (🍷), but it’s worth a shot. She says, let her thinks about it, and he says, of course (🍷). Is she sure she’s okay? She says she was going to ask Epiphany for a personal day, and he says, good. Go home and rest. He’ll check on her later. She says, he’d better.

Jordan sees Portia at the hospital, and tells Portia that she ran into Curtis. He told her that reporters are giving Trina a hard time. She came to offer her help. Portia says, if she really wants to help, she can get the DA to dismiss the charges. Jordan says she wishes she could, and Portia says she wishes Jordan meant it. If she did, she wouldn’t have arrested Trina in the first place.

Curtis says, he’ll just take a copy of the sealed arrest records, assuming they exist, and Selena says, they’re in her possession, where they’ll remain for now. Curtis says, they had a deal, and she says she has every intention of upholding her end, but first, he has to uphold his. He asks how he knows she has the records, and she shows him the title page on her phone. She says, safely stored away. She’ll gladly give them to him, after he does what she asks. Have his club ready for her.

Harmony tells Willow, she just meant that soon Willow will be graduating nursing school, which is amazing. She’s so proud of Willow. Then Willow is going to be working full time, and her free time will be with Wiley and Michael, her family. Willow says, Harmony is her family too. She appreciates the effort Harmony has been making over the last few months to rebuild their relationship. She knows she hasn’t exactly made it easy. Harmony says, that’s understandable, all things considered, and Willow says she’s happy to keep working on it. Harmony chokes up, and says, that means so much. All the mistakes she made with Willow growing up, getting her involved in Dawn of Day.  There was a time she didn’t even hold out hope of a relationship or forgiveness. Willow says she was angry with Harmony for a long time. She didn’t know if she could trust Harmony again, but look at her now. Every time she sees Harmony, she’s bending over backwards to make up for her past. Harmony says, unfortunately, the past keeps hanging over us, but Willow says, it doesn’t have to. She’s forgiven Harmony. Harmony says, she has? It’s so much more than she deserves. No matter how hard she tries to do the right thing, trouble keeps following her, right up to Willow’s doorstep even. Willow asks if this has anything to do with that man who approached them yesterday. What was his name? Brendon Byrne.

Jordan tells Portia, this is her job; she had no choice. Portia says, of course (🍷) she has a choice. She’s seen Jordan go outside the law for her family time and time again. Jordan says, and it’s brought nothing but  trouble, which is why she has to play everything by the book. Portia says, of course (🍷) Jordan does, because it’s her daughter, which begs the question… Never mind. Jordan says, no. Clearly Portia has something to say, so say it. Portia says she wonders if Jordan is making this personal, and Curtis walks by, seeing them. He stops.

As Robert is leaving Anna’s, Valentin is about to knock, and Robert says, if it’s not the devil incarnate. He leaves, and Valentin asks Anna if that means they were speaking about him. She says, they were, and he says, okay, because he hasn’t stopped thinking about her. She smiles.

Britt says, with her job, where would a relationship even fit in? and Brad says, evenings and weekends? She says, she works those. The only reason she had time for her last relationship was because they were on the run from the law and assassins, and she couldn’t work remotely. He says, so she’s been burned a few times. That doesn’t mean she should give up. Mr. Right is out there. She says, no he isn’t, and Brad says, Mr. Sufficient might be. Go find him. She deserves to be happy. She thanks him, and says, you know who also deserves happiness? Him. He says, no, and she says, yes. He says, who is he to argue? Here’s the plan. Step one, she gets a man. Step two, he gets the job at GH, then he gets his own man. She asks if that isn’t steps two and three, but he says, step three is them living their best lives. It’s as simple as that. She says, Brad… and he says, she doesn’t like the plan? She says she loves the plan. There’s something she needs to tell him. Selena comes by, and tells them, good afternoon. She’s sure Brad has enjoyed his time with his friend. Now he must listen to her good news. She has a job for him. He says, she does? and she says, starting immediately. Come. They have much to discuss. Brad reluctantly goes with her.

Elizabeth answers the phone at the nurse’s station, and a man’s voice says, don’t forget me. She says, what? and he says, don’t forget me. I’m in room 1011, and I asked for a blanket. She tells him to hold on a minute, and quietly freaks out.

Harmony asks, what makes Willow think this about the guy from yesterday? and Willow says, the guy said something to Harmony when he was leaving, and it wasn’t excuse me. Harmony swears it was nothing. He knows Alexis, and she met him at Alexis’s office. Willow asks why she didn’t say anything, and Harmony says she didn’t think it mattered. There she goes again, making the wrong decision. Willow asks, what’s going on? Does she need help? Harmony says, no. That’s so sweet, but don’t worry about her, ever. She can look after herself, and she’s going to be here to look after Willow too. Willow thanks her, and Harmony says she knows she’s said this before, but she truly means it. No matter what she’s done, she’s done for Willow. Willow asks, what does Harmony mean, she did it for her? What has she done?

Alexis stands at Pier 54, and sees Brendon floating face down in the water. 

Tomorrow, Portia asks if Jordan can honestly be impartial; Josslyn asks Cameron whose side he’s on; and Britt asks if Spencer believes Trina filmed that video.

Below Deck Sailing Yacht

What’s interesting is, Bravo has paired Summer House, a house of the most horrible people in reality TV – including Jersey Shore – with this show that’s fast breeding horrible people.

Gary smashes his finger in the door goes to the galley. Marcos asks if he wants ice, and Gary plunges his hand into some. He goes to his cabin, while Colin and Daisy secure the doors. Gary holds his hand and yells a lot of MF words, and guest Marni is a little freaked, hearing him. Daisy asks if Gary is okay, and Gary sings, Hey-O. Daisy looks at his finger, and in her interview, she says, you haven’t worked a sailboat unless you’ve smashed a finger or toe. It’s a common injury. Glenn asks, what’s going on? and Kelsie says, Gary hurt his finger. Glenn asks her to check on him, and Gary says he didn’t want to scream outside. Glenn asks Colin if everything’s okay, and Colin says, the belt on the doors snapped, but they’ve been secured. In Gabriela’s interview, she says she feels off her game, and we flash back to her dropping the tray of champagne. She says she’s been in hospitality for 15 years. Dropping a tray is not something that happens. She’s been distracted by her thoughts and problems, and needs to focus on her work and being a better team member. It’s bothering me to no end that Gabriela thinks she’s at fault in any way. Both Ashley and Marcos are narcissists with a nasty streak. Luckily, she’s not involved with Gary, who’s a narcissist with a stupid and thoughtless streak.

Gary asks Kelsie for help with a tangled captive wench, and gets really irritated that Kelsie can’t read his thoughts, and insists she’s not doing what she’s doing. On the brighter side, the guests see a dolphin with her baby, and primary Dawn says, they’re actually aliens… Ashley tries to set the table, and the centerpiece keeps falling over. If Gabriela does have a fault, it’s being nice to those two a-holes, and she foolishly confides in Marcos that she’s disappointed in her own behavior. She doesn’t want it to affect her job or send her home. Marcos says she has to sit down and think about who she wants to be. Advice he’s clearly gotten from Sesame Street or his second grade teacher. She says she wants to start fresh, and he says, take time, which I think translates to, it will take time. She tells him, good chat, and in her interview, she says, at this point, she feels like no one likes her. She wants to crawl in a hole and disappear. Why, Gabriela? Why?

The guests take selfies, and Glenn checks out Gary’s hand. He says, there’s blood under the nail, and suggests Gary poke it with a hot needle to let the blood out. It will relieve the pressure and pain. In Glenn’s interview, he says, he had a crew member reach into a locker, when the door came down, crushing his skull. He was in the hospital for weeks, and thatclose to dying. He tells Gary, it could have been way worse. Ashley serves lunch, and the guests tell Marcos that he’s the best, making his enormous head even bigger. A guest wonders how much weight has ever been gained on charter. In the galley, Ashley tells Marcos, Gary and Daisy need to f*** already and get it over with. Gary grabs Daisy from behind, and she says, that’s the closest he’s going to get to having sex with her. Gary pretend sobs, and Glenn comes downstairs. He tells Gary that he needs to use the needle to relieve the pressure, and just the thought of it makes me uncomfortable. Even though Quentin Tarantino and Korean horror are two of my favorite things in the world, I can’t watch. Glenn says, gently, and Gary yells.

Gary’s nail bleeds like crazy, and Glenn says, it will take a lot of the pain away. Gary jokes that he’s got to go back to work, and Glenn tells him, get his ass out there. The guests get in the hot tub, and guest Tim wants to get in the real water, but Glenn says, they can’t open the door with the swell. He suggests they take the tender out and he can jump in from there. In Glenn’s interview, he says, his first mate is his right arm, and we see Gary sleeping in the crew mess. Glenn says he’ll see what he can do. The guests are paying for an experience and don’t care how they get it. Some of the guests jump into the water from the deck, and Glenn takes the tender out with Tim.  

Ashley sets the table, and Gary dances around, singing, be positive. The guests get ready for dinner, even though it seems like they just had lunch. The table looks beautiful, laden with flowers and brightly-colored  tchotchkes. Marcos tells Gary, most people don’t know sh*t about making vegan food. No surprise, he knows everything, and shows Gary the squash he’s grilling. Gary says, Marcos has a few tricks up his sleeve. Dinner is served, and Dawn says, it’s the vegan food she’s always dreamed of. Marcos and Gary bark like dogs in the galley, and Daisy tells Ashley that if she’s finished early, ask if Gabriela needs help. Ashley groans, but when Daisy asks, what’s wrong? she says, nothing. Gabriela walks through, and tells Ashley, if she needs help, let her know. In Gabriela’s interview, she says, she’s not dumb. She can read a room. She doesn’t want to make it worse, so she’ll just suck it up. Ashley tells Daisy that it’s like Gabriela is trying to exert her authority, and it’s frustrating. I’m sure Daisy can read a room too, and is reading what a delusional bitch Ashley is. Daisy tells Gabriela that Ashley can turn in early, but if Gabriela needs her, keep her. Gary tells Kelsie that he’s sorry he got mad. He was just frustrated with himself. She says she knows, and she’s sorry she can’t read his mind. The guests go to bed, and in their cabin, Colin says, the guests are crazy for Gary. Marcos says, after three weeks, all the girls are in love with Gary, and Gary says, Daisy would be a good shag. As much as she denies it, she’s been flirting with him. Gabriela radios Ashley, who’s washing glasses. Gabriela comes down, and thanks her, saying, she was going to ask Ashley to do that. Ashley says, she didn’t have to, and you can hear the eyeroll in her voice. In Ashley’s interview, she says, you’ll know if she doesn’t like you. She won’t acknowledge you, and just shut you out. Very mature, our Ashley. I can’t wait to see how she does at a real job in the real world.

Glenn tells the guests that he’s thinking of going toward Port Mahon, where they’ll have protected water for paddleboarding and kayaking. Daisy tells Marcos, there are three people up who want breakfast. Anchor is hauled and home, and the guests pronounce breakfast delicious, fabulous, and insane. Glenn re-anchors in Port Mahon, and Daisy tells Gabriela that she’s in charge while Daisy is on break. Guest Marni asks if they can go somewhere for swimming, and Glenn asks if Gary can take them in the tender to the cove. Gabriela asks Marcos for a fruit platter to take to the beach, and drinks are packed. In Marcos’s interview, he says, in yachting, you should treat your co-workers the same when you party and drink as you do at work. We flash back to his conflict with Gabriela that the rest of us have forgotten about, but he apparently holds a grudge about. He says, when he has a situation, cooking is his therapy. He becomes a freaking animal. Gabriela asks Daisy if she can go to the beach with the guests, and Daisy says, fine. She gets up, and tells Ashley to go on break. The guests get into the tender, and head for the beach. Ashley texts Daisy that she wants to talk about Gabriela.

The guests go swimming, and on the boat, Daisy asks Ashley, what’s going on? Ashley says, the other day, Gabriela was whining about wanting to quit. She said she didn’t trust any of them, and didn’t want to drink with them. We flash back to Ashley promising she won’t tell Daisy, and Daisy tells Ashley that she thinks a lot goes on behind her back, and she gets that, but she doesn’t feel right talking to Ashley without talking to Gabriela. (Kudos to Daisy for that.) She hopes Ashley is telling her the truth. In Daisy’s interview, she says, she doesn’t understand Ashley’s competitiveness; with boys, the job, everything. We flash back to Ashley being an a-hole, and Daisy says, she’s not stupid. It’s about being number one. She tells Ashley, thanks for the chat. Gary radios that the guests are coming back. Gabriela tries to make small talk with Ashley in the laundry, but Ashley claims she’s tired. In Gabriela’s interview, she says, she’s really trying with Ashley, but she just can’t. She tells Ashley to let her know if she needs help, and Ashley makes fun of her as soon as she’s gone. Marcos is making tofu that looks like fried chicken, something he learned in West Hollywood. Colin tastes it, and approves, and Marcos says, tofu is good if you know how to make it. I’ve never made it myself, but I think it’s really weird how it can be made to taste like other things. In Colin’s interview, he says, Marcos is a magician. He doesn’t know how to describe it.

Kelsie hopes the new deckhand has a good personality, is a hard worker, and makes her laugh. And is hot, but that’s third on the list. Actually fourth, but who’s counting? Dawn says, this is the best food she’s had in her entire life, and Ashley tells Colin the exact same thing she told Daisy about Gabriela. The guests finish dinner, declare they’re boring, and go to bed. Gabriela radios Ashley that if she’s finished, she can go to bed. When everyone has turned in, Gabriela finds Kelsie, who’s the only crew member she’s comfortable with. She tells Kelsie that she’s tired and had a bad day. She had a couple of chats with Ashley, but there was something weird about it. She’s not respected in the way she respects other people. She doesn’t feel like she’s part of the team. She thinks when they got loose, it had a negative effect. She knows Ashley and Marcos don’t like her, but she can’t get a read on Daisy. Kelsie says, Gabriela knew they’d have to be coexisting before they got here, but it’s tough because they wear a lot of hats. She doesn’t think Gabriela is in the gutter, and tells her, don’t dwell on the negative. They hug, and Kelsie tells Gabriela not to cry. Gabriela says, Kelsie is a good sister.

Last day of charter. Gabriela says, she’s fine, everything’s fine, she can do this. Glenn says he’s thinking about sailing, and asks Daisy about breakfast. Daisy says she can’t give him a definitive answer about time; it depends on the guests. He wants to give the guests a sail, and Daisy tells Marcos, they’re going to keel hard. The guests want breakfast and she’s in a bad mood. In the cabins, the stews put everything on the floor. The guests say they’d prefer to sail, and in Daisy’s interview, she says, it’s a disaster waiting to happen. Everyone eats fast, and Glenn bugs Daisy until she finally says, go ahead.  The boat tilts, and the guests hang onto the table. Dawn films, and things crash. Glenn tells Gary to help inside, and Daisy says, everything is going to f***ing break.

Marcos sings in Spanish, and Daisy says she wants to put herself in a better mood. Ashley suggests she needs a hug from Gary, but Daisy says, Gary gets enough hugs from her. Glenn says he’s seen steeper. but that was pretty steep. Good sailing. Dawn says she learned what not to pack for next time, and I think, yep, like shoes. Gabriela helps with the fenders. Kelsie tells her, they’re not heavy, but they’re awkward, and Glenn doesn’t want them dragged. They dock, but it’s nothing special. Dawn thanks them from the bottom of her heart. They had fun water with the water sports, and the morning sail was spectacular. She hands Glenn the tip envelope, and Marcos pouts because he didn’t get a mention. Glenn blows the horn, and everyone waves. Marcos pouts some more, and Glenn calls everyone to the saloon for the tip meeting.

He says, it was charter six; they’re more than halfway there. The crew’s done a great job, and they’ve been keeping the guests happy, despite being short some hands and a finger. The new deckhand should be coming before the next charter. The tip is $20K, or $2500 each. Everyone is thrilled, and I think, these were classy guests. They had fun, had reasonable requests, caused no trouble, and left a big tip. Glenn suggests the crew have a nice dinner, but make it low key. Tomorrow, they have the day off, and he’s rented a local villa for them to use for their deserved downtime and fun. Daisy thanks him for organizing it, and in Gabriela’s interview, she says, she needs to recharge and reset. She needs to get out of her head, and this is the way to do it.

Daisy asks to talk to Gabriela, and they sit in one of the guest cabins. Gabriela says she wants to start over. She wants to be an extension of Daisy, someone Daisy can trust and rely on. She feels like she’s lost some of that trust, and feels defeated. Daisy says, Gabriela is a great stew. The guests love her, and she’s excellent at service and décor. Daisy wants her here, and Glenn wants her here. She has incredible potential, but she has to want it. Gabriela says she feels dismissed with Ashley, and she didn’t come to Daisy initially with her concerns. She’s been trying to pull herself out of a spiral. Daisy says, Gabriela can talk to her anytime. Don’t let it consume her because… Gabriela says, this is the result. In Gabriela’s interview, she says, she’s just going to work on herself. She feels like a complete sh*t. She’s emotionally drained, and so burned out.

Next time, the crew goes to the villa, Gary smells trouble, Kelsie toasts to a fresh start, Marcos whines that Gabriela is picking on him, and Gabriela asks to talk to Glenn.

⚰️ Forgotten Dead…

Some articles I might have missed posting.

On Madison 2.0.

https://ew.com/tv/fear-the-walking-dead-kim-dickens-madison-return-showrunners/

Lauren’s take on Maggie.

https://ew.com/tv/walking-dead-lauren-cohan-maggie-negan-acts-of-god/

Lance’s coin flip.

🧙🏾‍♀️ Festival Vibe…

The performances.

https://people.com/music/coachella-2022-weekend-one-celebrity-photos/

The fashion.

https://people.com/style/coachella-2022-best-fashion-outfit-photos/

🤖 Hasta la Vista, Baby…

Come join me tomorrow for soap and New Jersey drama. Until then, stay safe, stay adventuresome, and stay knowing justice can’t be served without the truth.

April 17, 2022 – Alicia’s Dream Leads To Padre, Hearts Flutter Again, Sweating It Out, More On Madison, Saul’s Back, Dead Gallery & Amazing

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What I Watched Today

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

Fear the Walking Dead

A tumbleweed blows by. Alicia marches down a road leading a small group of people. She hears, Padre, and sees a zombie up ahead. She asks what they said, and tells them, I’m talking to you. There’s a high pitched sound that makes everyone cover their ears. Alicia runs after the figure, and hears, Padre, again. The figure turns around, and it’s the zombie who bit her. He attacks her, and gets her on the ground. She hears, follow me… She opens her eyes, and Beethoven’s Ode to Joy is blasting so loud, the chandelier is rocking. She realizes she has earplugs in, and takes them out. She grabs her steampunk arm, and heads downstairs. She asks if someone is there, and sees the door banging open and shut. She closes and locks it. She sees bloody footprints, and follows them. A man sitting at a piano, and she yells at him to turn the music off. She tries reaching for the volume control, but it’s on a shelf that’s too high for her. The zombie making the footprints comes up behind the man, and Alicia yells to him, then knocks the stereo off the shelf. He fights the zombie, and stabs it in the eyeball. He asks Alicia, what did you do? and she passes out. He picks up the broken stereo, and says, what did you do?

Alicia wakes up, and sees the man back at the piano. She asks how she got here, but he doesn’t turn around. She gets up, and says she’s talking to him. She taps his shoulder with her not-really-an-arm, and he whips around. He says, easy, and she asks if he can hear her. He says, no. He hasn’t heard a thing in months. She asks, what’s going on? How did she get here? He tells her, speak slower so he can read her lips, and she asks, how long has she been out? He says, two days, and she asks how she got here. He says he brought her here. He was coming back from a food run, and found her passed out in a barn two miles north. He checked her, and saw what was left of her arm. That’s quite a statement. She says she got bit, and wasn’t going to let him take it. He says he figured that was why, and that she would have turned by now. It didn’t look infected, but she was still burning up. Why is she idling so hot; is she sick? She says, that’s not it, and she wasn’t in a barn. She remembers she was on her way back to the people she was staying with. She must have passed out, but she wasn’t in a barn. A girl saved her. He says, maybe the girl got her to the barn, and asks what she’s running from. She says she appreciates his help, but she has to go. People are counting on her. He says, her dad? She said, padre. She says she must have been confused, and starts to go, but he says, hold on. She broke his stereo. She can at least help him fix it. She says she has to go, but bumps into the doorframe, and he says, she’s in no shape to go anywhere. He introduces himself as Paul, and says, she never answered his question about her fever. He hands her a bottle of medication, and she says, it’s a long story. He says, she can do better than that. She’s still breathing because of him. She says she returned the favor. He was drawing the zombies with the loud music. He says, there’s a lock on the door, and the entire house is soundproofed. She says she thought he couldn’t hear, and he says, when Beethoven was going deaf, he destroyed every piano by pounding on it. Just because you can’t hear the music, doesn’t mean you can’t feel it. She points at some bagpipes, and asks, what about those? but he says he doesn’t play them. She hears a horse outside, and asks him to hide her. He can’t know she’s here. Paul asks, who is he? There’s a knock at the door, and Paul opens it to Arno, who’s wearing his mask. Paul asks if there’s something he can help with, and Arno says, he’s looking for somebody. Paul says he can’t hear sh*t. Arno will have to show his face, but there’s been nothing dangerous in the wind for weeks. Arno takes off his mask, and says he’s looking for someone; a woman. Paul says he’s out of luck. There’s no one here but him. Zombies are reaching through a tarp over a cage in the back of a wagon, and Paul asks, what’s that? but Arno ignores him, walking past him and inside, along with his men. Paul tells Arno that he didn’t say he could come in, and Arno picks up the bottle of medication, asking if Paul is sick. Paul tells them to get out of his house, and Arno says, the girl he’s looking for gets fevers. She’s been bitten, and lost part of her arm, but she didn’t turn. She’s still walking around. Paul says he ain’t seen her, and Arno says, she’s not considerate. She has a habit of getting people hurt. Paul asks what Arno wants with her, and Arno says, that’s between them. He plays a scale on the piano, but hits a dead key. He asks Paul what the problem is, and we see the problem is Alicia hiding inside the piano, but Paul says they’re broken. Arno hits them a few times and says, all right then. If Paul sees her, give him a call. He gives Paul a walkie, and looks at a photo on his way out. He says, a deaf musician; ain’t that a bitch. He tells Paul that he appreciates his time, and leaves. Paul watches as the Stalkers drive their wagons off.

Paul makes something on the stove, and asks Alicia what Arno wants with her. Is it true what he said? Is she getting folks hurt? She says, they lived in the same place. Things went bad, and he blamed her. He asks if Arno is right to blame her, and she says, they had to abandon the place, since the blast had compromised the structure. He asks, where is that? and serves her a bowl of whatever he’s making. He says she seems nice enough to him. Then again, he may just be grateful for the company. She takes a bite, and he sees her face, and says, she’s never had haggis. The Scottish always kept cans in the pantry. He had the same reaction when he first tried it, but he grew to like it. When he was scavenging, he was surprised at how easy it was to find. Grocery stores were picked clean save for that stuff. Alicia says, Rowan. Is she…? He says, his wife, and she asks, what happened? He says, the bombs did. He lost her and what was left of his hearing the same day. Alicia says she’s sorry, and he says, so is he. He’s leaving at dawn to find a stereo. She says she really does have to go, but he says, she can’t leave. She says she’s not the person he thinks she is, but he says she has to be. Why is she in such a hurry? She tells him, what Arno said is true. People got hurt, and she doesn’t want that to happen to him. Paul asks, what happened? Why is that guy after her? She says, it doesn’t matter, and he asks, what does? She says, lives are at stake, and he says, so is his. If she leaves him without finding a stereo, he’s as good as dead. Help him get what he wants, and he’ll make sure she gets back in one piece. She says she doesn’t know where to find a stereo, but he says he does.

They go to a concert hall, and Paul asks how Alicia wound up bit. She says, the same way most people do; trying to get out of a bad situation. He asks if it has something to do with Padre. She was talking about it in her dreams. It must have meant something. She says, it’s a place she thought she could take everyone where they would be safe, and he says, and people died along the way. That’s why Arno is after her? What’s the new plan? She says, there’s a new place, or there will be. The person running it is trying hard to keep people out. She tried to get Arno and his people to fight with them. He says, it looks like she didn’t convince them, and she tells him, he said she shouldn’t lead anyone. He’s probably right. Paul says, so it didn’t work out. Big deal. She tried. She says, people died, but he says, she didn’t put a gun to their head and force them to follow her. They followed her for a reason. She says, she thought it was the way to go, and he says, and she did. Why beat herself up about it? Beethoven’s Ninth Concerto was the last concert they had here. When it premiered, Beethoven said he couldn’t conduct it himself because he was deaf. When it ended, the house went nuts and gave him a standing ovation. The story goes, because he was unaware of it, a young contralto spun Beethoven around, so he could see how they loved what they’d heard. Alicia asks what instrument Paul played, and he says, piano. Rowan played the violin. He got her the bagpipes for her 40th birthday, and learned to play them himself, part of his Scottish education. It was her dream to play Ode to Joy on the bagpipes, but she never played it. His hearing had started going, and she thought he would hear it because the bagpipes are so loud. Alicia asks, why didn’t she play it? and Paul says, he told her that’s not how it’s meant to be played, but really, he was so damn mad at the world going quiet, he took it out on her. Alicia says, he doesn’t have to go back and live alone, but he says, what else is he going to do? She says, come with her and her friends. The more people they have, the sooner they can take that place. She hears a horse, and he says, what’s wrong? She tells him, wait here, and goes outside. Why she reveals herself in this way is beyond me, but she sees Arno’s mini convoy, and a gun is cocked near her head. Arno says he knew he would find her here, and she says, she’s not alone. He says he figured that too, and yells, come out. That’s right, he can’t hear them. He looks at Alicia and shakes his head, saying, she never learns. Did she promise him somewhere safe to go? She says she thought Padre would work, and he says, tell them. One of his men removes the tarp from the cage, and reveals the zombie. She tells Arno that he’s insane, but he says, she’s the one who asked them to find Vazquez so he could lead them. How’d that go? She says, he should put them to rest, and he says he was going to, but he thought it would be more fun to let them punish her for what she did. His men drag her to the wagon.

Arno clanks Alicia’s arm part against the cage bars, and says, they’re dead because she said she knew the way. It seems only fair that she join them. She’s already halfway there. He unlocks the cage, when Paul shoots him in the hand. It’s too late though, and the zombies are released. Paul shoots, and Alicia grabs her arm part. Arno is like, waah, my hand! and Paul runs out of bullets. As he struggles to put more in the gun, he drops the stereo and it breaks. Alicia gets in a vehicle, and calls to him. He hesitates getting in, and says, he can fix it. She grabs him, and pulls him in, but he says he has to get it back. She says, it’s just a stereo, and he says, it’s the only thing that can drown it out; her voice. She was on her way back when it happened. She was so scared, and he tried to calm her. He told her it would be okay, and to stay on the radio with him. Then the warhead came crashing down with a horrible high-pitched sound while she screamed. Then everything went quiet. The last thing he ever heard was her scream; his Rowan. He couldn’t go on hearing it. Alicia couldn’t possibly understand. Alicia says she can, and he says, how? She says she has a voice she can’t get rid of either; the one from her dream. He says, what dream? and she says the one she’s had for months, that she keeps having. She thought Padre was a place she could take everyone. The first time she had the dream was after she got bit. She didn’t know if she’d cut off her arm in time. She was out for days, and when her fever was spiking, she had the dream; the most vivid dream she’d ever had. Paul says, about what? and she says, a walker; she was following it. We see her running, and she says, not just her, all of them too. She finally caught up, and the walker turned around. It was the same walker that bit her. He talked to her, and said, Padre, but it wasn’t his voice. He told her to follow him to Padre, so she did, or it’s what she’s been trying to do. She made all these people believe in her. She told them that she knew what she was doing and where she was going, and she didn’t. It was just a dream. He says, they must have had a reason, and she says, they died because of her. Now that voice is all she can hear every time she closes her eyes; every time she manages to fall asleep. He asks if she’s serious about what she said to him; him coming with her and helping with the place she’s trying take over. He’d like to take her up on it. She asks, why? and he says, something tells him there’s a reason he came across her. Maybe they can help each other drown out what they don’t want to hear. Alicia says she couldn’t get him a stereo, and he says, he’s got one right here, but she tells him, stay away. She can’t let him get hurt. Arno won’t stop until she’s dead. He’ll go to Paul’s house and hurt him. Paul says, that’s why he needs to be ready for Arno. Does she trust him? She nods, and he takes out the walkie. He says, if Arno is listening, if Arno can hear him, he’s sorry about the mishap earlier. Alicia turned on him too. The problem Arno has, Paul is ready to help solve. Come to his house after dark.

Paul sets up the stereo (which I guess he fixed?) and Alicia says, he doesn’t have to. He says, the sooner he helps her take out Arno, the sooner she can get back and stop punishing herself for what’s not her fault. She says, even with Arno gone, the voice won’t go. He says, maybe not, but maybe it’s not meant to be silenced. She tells him, but he said… and he says, he told her, it would drown out what they didn’t want to hear, but maybe she should listen. His old man was a helluva pianist; he was known as Texas Gershwin. His brother followed in their father’s footsteps, and Paul started taking lessons. He wanted to be like his father and brother, but when he did, the teacher would smack his hands with a yardstick. She asks, why? and he says, nobody makes great music imitating others. It has to come from you. Maybe that’s why it didn’t work before. Alicia thought somebody else was telling her what to do. Maybe the voice is her; so listen to it. If she doesn’t, she might regret it. He looks at the bagpipes, and says he owes it to himself and anyone who wants his help. Arno yells that he knows they’re in there, and Alicia tells Paul, they’re here. He gives her earplugs to put in, and says, it’s going to get loud. Arno and his man knock on the windows, and Arno whistles. He says he know Alicia is in there. Where is she? Come out. Paul hooks up the stereo. Arno tries the door, finds it locked, and sighs. He says, come out before she gets someone else hurt. Suddenly, Ode to Joy starts blasting, and Paul shoots at them. No surprise, zombies pop out of everywhere. Arno yells for his men to fall back, but it’s too late. Paul shoots the zombies wandering into the house until he runs out of bullets. Alicia starts smashing zombie heads with her pseudo arm, and Paul whacks them with whatever he can find. Alicia says, Arno is coming in through the back, and sure enough, they sneak in. Paul whacks one in the head with a guitar, but Alicia says, there are too many. I’m not quite sure if she’s referring to the zombies or Arno’s guys, or both. Arno kills off some zombies, and Paul grabs the bagpipes. The electricity goes out, and Arno points his gun at Paul. A zombie grabs Arno, but he gets off a shot anyway, hitting Paul. Alicia grabs Paul, and hustles him into another room. She looks at his wound, and tells him, it’s going to be okay. Where they’re going, they have medical supplies. He says, it’s too late, but she says, it’s not; they’ll get out. He says, she will, and she says she’s not leaving without him. He laughs, and says she doesn’t have a choice. Alicia says he’s in this position because of her. She said she’d take him somewhere safe… He says he would have followed her anyway, and so will they. Her friends… her people. What her dream is telling her is that they’re the ones she’d meant to lead. She tries to get him to come, but he says she just needs to believe in what she’s capable of. She says she doubted someone she cared about, and won’t make that mistake again. Zombies start to scrabble at the door, and they hear gunshots. He tells her to go, but she says she won’t make it past Arno. He says, she will if they can’t hear her. Arno knocks at the door, and says, she can’t stay in there forever. Paul starts to play Ode to Joy on the bagpipes, and Alicia cuts out the back. Paul sees her running past through the window, and Arno comes in. He points his gun at Paul, who doesn’t even turn around, although there are tears in his eyes. Alicia runs down the road through the woods as we hear the gunshot. She runs until she sees a hooded, masked little girl. She stops, and says, you again? Are you okay? The girl says she will be, and Alicia lies down in the road. The girl says, if you can help me, maybe I can help you. Alicia closes her eyes.

Alicia walks in a windy, ochre landscape. She sees a figure in the distance, and says, hey. A man’s voice says, Padre, but as she gets closer, she sees it’s a woman. A woman’s voice says, Padre. Follow me. She stops, and the figure turns. It’s her, and she tells herself, Padre. Follow me. Behind her are a group of people, including the little masked girl. Alicia says, Morgan… Morgan says, Alicia. Wake up. She opens her eyes.  

Morgan says, it’s okay. She’s all right. She asks how long she was out, and he says she showed up last night, but collapsed before they could get her inside. He puts a cool cloth on her forehead, and says, they’ve got to keep her fever down. She says, where is she? and he asks, who? She says, that girl; the one who brought her here. He says, she was alone… What is it? Is she all right? How did it go with Arno? Did she convince him to join them? She says she’s sorry. She knows they don’t have enough people to take on Victor. He says, they’ll find another way, and she says she thinks she has one.

Morgan asks why she thought a walker could lead them to Padre. She’s not too much on a straight answer to a straight question. She says she had a dream when she was in the bunker after she’d cut her arm off. The fever was at its worst, and she heard a voice. She thought it was saying a walker would lead them, and she thought it was coming from Padre. He asks who it was coming from, and she says, herself. Her mom, Nick, and Morgan all had a dream, but she never stopped to listen to her own voice. She is now. He asks where she’s going, and she says, the bunker has a transmitter. She doesn’t think Padre even exists, but a lot of people are looking for it, or a place like it. He says, she can’t lead them to a place that doesn’t exist, but she says she can lead people to them. They can become Padre, and give them what they want; a safe place to live. And that’s how they’ll take the tower. Morgan asks if she wants him to come, but she says she needs him to stay. When she comes back, they’ll make their move. He says, then he’ll be ready when she gets back, but she should rest. She says she can’t. Just be ready. She leaves.

Stalker Sage drives the wagon, the cage now empty except for a whining Arno. Sage stops the wagon, and Arno wails that he’s going to die if his hand isn’t treated. Sage says, they don’t have time, and tells Arno to look. Arno gets out, and they stand by the edge of a canyon filled with zombies. Sage says, the herd must have fell in. They’ve been stewing down there for months. Arno asks, how many? and Sage says, too many. If one of them gets out, they won’t be going anywhere. Arno says, we need to take the tower for ourselves.  

Next time, Morgan needs to protect the sub, Charlie gets herself trapped, June says Howard is a monster, and it looks like Charlie will be having a love interest (see below).

💗 Dead Love For Teens…

He was on the preview, and I knew I recognized him from somewhere.

GH Alum Ashton Arbab Joins the Cast of FEAR THE WALKING DEAD!

🔥 Is It Hot In Here Or…

They really did make her look like hell.

https://ew.com/tv/alycia-debnam-carey-fear-the-walking-dead-sweaty/

👢 Ripple Effect…

Madison’s return will trickle down. Or out. Or something.

https://www.syfy.com/syfy-wire/fear-the-walking-dead-kim-dickens-madison-return-teased

🚑 Not Just Chasing Ambulances Anymore…

Back for a new and final season, this was a better show than I’d expected it to be. Sadly, I can’t watch them all, and I lost track of it, but you might want to catch up.

https://www.avclub.com/better-call-saul-season-6-what-to-remember-season-5-su-1848785149

⚰️ Just For Fun…

A gallery of memorable TWD characters.

https://tvline.com/gallery/the-walking-dead-most-memorable-characters-photos/

🐣 May Your Basket Always Be Full Of Treats…

Stop by tomorrow for some soap and Sailing. Until then, stay safe, stay keeping your eyes open for opportunities, and stay not imitating others. Nobody makes great music that way. It has to come from you.

April 15, 2022 – Nina Has One Comment, Esme’s Daddy, Insane, Kathy’s Defense, Dating, New Boyfriend, Breaking, VanderValley, Dance Move, Max List, Country Time, Nine Of Quotes & Scenes

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Chase is taking a shower, when his phone rings. He gets out to answer it, and says, he knows, he knows. He’s on his way… Hey, he’s doing them a favor. Relax. He’s got this covered.

Outside Kelly’s, Aiden reads an article about Ouija boards on his phone, when Laura comes along. She asks what he’s looking at.

Elizabeth opens the door to Finn, and asks what he’s doing here. He says he was nowhere near her neighborhood, and thought he’d stop by and say hi. She tells him, get in here, and he goes inside. He says, to be honest with him, it didn’t sit well that she talked him into her staying alone here last night. She says, it’s sweet he’s worried, and he says he’s not sweet, but he is worried about her. She says she appreciates he’s concerned, but Jake and Aiden are safe at Laura’s, and nothing happened last night. He says she can’t possibly think that the threat is over, but she says, no. Somebody’s gone to an awful lot of trouble to get her attention, and it’s working. How can she ever feel at peace until they find out who’s behind this?

Sonny tells Frank, once people find out he’s not the owner, Charlie’s isn’t going to be targeted. Carly walks in, and Sonny says, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. The most important thing is, Phyllis wasn’t here when it happened. Everything’s going to be okay, right? Carly says, it seems they agree on that. When was the last time that happened?

Nina goes to Alexis’s office, and Alexis thanks her for coming. Nina says, of course (🍷). It’s not every day that the editor-in-chief of the town’s hottest newspaper asks to speak to you in private. She’s assuming this is all off the record, and Alexis says, yes, as long as it goes in both directions. She invites Nina in, and says, Crimson has done a number of journalistic pieces over the years. Nina says, now she’s definitely intrigued. What’s this all about?

At the MetroCourt, Willow tells Smoltz that Nina completely omitted she’d been with Sonny. Smoltz says, been with him sexually, and Willow says, yeah, and the next time Nina approached her, she confronted Nina. Nina insisted she hadn’t done anything wrong, and she was upset when Willow told her that she couldn’t see Wiley. Michael says, and a few days later, Nina filed for visitation. Smoltz thanks them, and says, that’s all he needs for now. He’ll contact them if he has any follow-up questions. Michael says, it’s important that the first segment is published before the visitation hearing. Willow says, they understand judges are supposed to be impartial, and Michael adds, still, if this story is blowing up on people’s social media, it could get traction in the court of public opinion. Smoltz says, he’s on it, but just to be upfront, he has to reach out to Miss Reeves for her side of the story, so if there’s anything they haven’t told him yet, now would be the time. If there’s dirty laundry, he will find it.

On the phone in one of the private lounges, Harmony says she’s planning on meeting Brendon at 8 pm, but he says, change in plans. He’s leaving Port Charles earlier than anticipated. They need to meet now. She says, fine, and he says, that was easier than he thought. She tells him, what can she say? He has the upper hand, and they both know that. He says, get him the money, and she’ll never have to hear from him again. She says, that’s what she’s hoping for, and looks at the syringe in her bag.

Finn says he should have stayed with Elizabeth, but she says, they’ve already discussed that. He has to prioritize taking care of Violet. Besides if this person is motivated to do these things because they think she’s forgetting about Franco, having him there could make things worse. He says, she can’t keep going like this. When was the last time she had a full night’s sleep? She was probably looking over her shoulder the whole time. She says, Cameron was with her, but he says, Cameron’s in college. He has a girlfriend. He might not be here every night. So if she’s not going to leave, and she’s not going to let him stay with her, he was going to suggest a possible solution to keep her safe. He was thinking… The doorbell rings, and he says, that might be the possible solution right now. Elizabeth opens the door to Chase, who apologizes for being late.

Aiden tells Laura, this is just something stupid his friend sent him, and she asks if she can see. He shows her, and she says, the Ouija board, and laughs. He says, she knows what those are? and she says, when she was his age, they used to have slumber parties and hold a séance, and use a Ouija board to contact the dead. He says, she talked to dead people? but she says, no, not at all. It’s completely pretend. It’s a little game people would play. Clearly, one of her friends was pushing the pointer around the board to trick them into believing it was real, but it’s not. Why is he so interested in the Ouija board? He flashes back to telling Jake, what if it’s Franco? and tells her, it’s just something he saw on TV.

Willow says, their dirty laundry has already been made public, and Michael says, they have nothing to hide, but Nina does. Smoltz says, just to reiterate, they both signed over the exclusive rights to their story to him. They’re not allowed to discuss this with any other outlet; print, radio, TV, online, they’re all off the table. Unless of course (🍷) they want to hire another team of attorneys. Michael says, they understand the terms, and Smoltz says he’ll be in touch. He leaves, and Michael says, they actually pulled the trigger. He asks how Willow feels about this, and she says she doesn’t love it, but she feels like she’s doing what needs to be done. He says he feels the same, and Willow sees Harmony going to the elevator. She wonders what her mom is doing here, and walks over. She asks what brings Harmony to the MetroCourt, and where she’s going in such a hurry.

Alexis wonders if she can ask Nina about the nature of her relationship with Harmony, and Nina says, they don’t really have a relationship. She did recently talk to Harmony about speaking up for her with Willow because she was trying to avoid court proceedings to get visitation rights with Wiley, but that’s it. Alexis and Harmony are friends, right? Alexis says, they forged a friendship in Spring Ridge. Harmony confided in her that Nina used her to get Willow to back down. Nina says she didn’t use Harmony. She had a conversation with her, grandmother to grandmother. Alexis says she doesn’t want to get bogged down in the weeds about that. When Harmony talked to Carly, she said she went to bat for Nina; that she owes Nina something. Does Nina have any idea what Harmony feels she owes her? Nina says she has no idea what Harmony is talking about. She’s not holding anything over Harmony’s head, if that’s what Alexis is implying. She would think Harmony would have some sympathy for her situation because she’s also Wiley’s grandmother. Alexis says, true, but she thinks there’s more to it than that.

Sonny asks Frank to go outside and check on everything, and Frank leaves. Carly says she heard about the robbery last night, and just wanted to come by and make sure everything was okay. Sonny says, good thing Phyllis wasn’t here when it happened, and Carly says, what about Nina? She doesn’t want to get caught off-guard, so is there something she needs to worry about? He asks what she means, and she asks if it’s a sign his enemies are smelling blood in the water.

Elizabeth asks, what’s all this? and Chase says, Finn didn’t tell her? Finn says, Chase’s timing stinks. He was just about to when the doorbell rang. Chase says he knew this was a horrible idea, and starts to leave, but Elizabeth stops him, and says, what was a horrible idea? Finn says, he would have asked, but she’d just refuse, and she says, that is a horrible communication strategy. Chase says, his brother’s communication skills leave a lot to be desired, and Finn says, just as a reminder, he saved Chase’s life, so Chase owes him at least a year’s worth of slack. Chase says, he agreed to six months, so Finn’s coupon has expired. Elizabeth suggests they just let her know what’s going on, and Finn says, Chase is a cop, but he’s on suspension, so he needs to keep busy, and she needs security. So Finn thought Chase could stay here for a few days, just to keep an eye on things. She says, Dante and Jordan are sending patrol cars to check on the house, and no offense, but she doesn’t need a babysitter. Chase says, that’s not why he’d be here. He can try and find out who’s been trying to scare her family for months, and put a stop to it. I have to interject – WTH happened to Chase’s hair??? I think he’s been using Peter’s hairdresser.

Laura says she knows it’s a change in Aiden’s routine, but she promises they’ll have fun. She’s going to give him the run of the kitchen, and he can make Grandpa Kevin any dessert he wants, because he knows his grandpa has a sweet tooth. Lucy comes by, and says, that Doc, he hasn’t changed. Laura hugs her, and congratulates her on Deception’s IPO, and Lucy thanks her. She says she can’t get over it. She knew the company was good, and had high hopes, but she never thought the universe was going to grant her all of this. Laura says she bets Lucy is glad their plans to use the Deception brand as a day spa didn’t work out all those years ago. Lucy says, she appreciates Laura’s good will, but she did offer to set some stock aside for her, since Laura was a former partner in the early 2000s. Laura says she appreciates Lucy’s offer, but as mayor, she thinks it’s best she doesn’t have a vested interest in any of the local businesses, even one as successful as Lucy’s. Lucy says, it’s so crazy. She’s getting all these congratulatory bouquets from all the men in her life; Mac and Scotty and Martin… Not that Martin. She doesn’t talk to Martin. She talks too much, but she doesn’t talk to him right now. Laura says she knows Lucy is still dating her brother.

Carly says, what Nina did to Sonny is common knowledge. He didn’t retaliate and he didn’t punish her. Just the opposite. He protected her, and now he’s sleeping with her, so maybe it sent a message to the other families that he’s weak. He says, she’s overthinking it, and she asks what he’s talking about. Everyone knows he owns Charlie’s. Who would risk robbing the place? Was it one of the other families? Was it Selena Wu? He says, it’s not the Wu’s. He and Selena have an understanding. As far as the robbery, the Five Families mushroom risotto are down to two, so there’s going to be a lot of wannabes who want to make a name for themselves. She says, now that Jason’s gone… and he says, let him make her feel a little better about it. Brick is going to be taking over for Jason. She says she doesn’t want to know. She’s no longer his wife; she doesn’t want that responsibility. He asks what she does want, and she says, she wants his word that Donna and Avery are going to be safe; that they’re always going to be protected. He says, she knows he’s always going to protect his kids, and she asks if that’s equally true for his grandson.

Harmony says she guesses she has a couple of minutes, and Willow says she just wanted to give Harmony a heads up. Nina is petitioning for visitation with Wiley. There’s going to be a lot of media attention on their family. Michael joins them, and Willow says, she and Michael have had to make their peace with the press, but their interests may include their families. She’s sorry, but there’s a good chance the things Harmony has done in the past will be dredged up again. Harmony says she sees, and Willow says she just wants Harmony to know that whatever comes out, she doesn’t look at Harmony that way anymore. She made some horrible mistakes, but she was just as much a victim of Shiloh’s as Willow was. He manipulated her, but she found a way to break free, confessed to her crimes, and paid her debt to society. Michael says, that’s what makes her different from Nina, and Willow says, Harmony owned her mistakes and she’s become a better person for it; she’s grown. Harmony says that means more to her than Willow knows. She really has to go, but not before she does this. She hugs Willow, and says she always wants Willow to know that she’s the most important thing to her in this world. She loves Willow. She leaves, and Willow looks concerned.

Nina says she doesn’t know what this is to Alexis, and Alexis says, she just thinks something else is going on. Nina says, if there is, she’s just as much in the dark as Alexis is. She has no relationship with Harmony; no history with her. Except for… Smoltz walks in and says, hello, Chief. Alexis says, don’t ever call her that, and doesn’t he ever knock? He says he’s sorry for bursting in, but he has the feature of her dreams. He sees Nina, and says, talk about good timing. One of the major players in his feature is right here in front of him. He hopes Alexis isn’t poaching his leads again. Alexis asks if this is the feature he wants her to greenlight, and Nina says, what feature? Smoltz says, he was just interviewing Michael Corinthos and Willow Tate upstairs in the restaurant, about how Nina is dragging them to court, and how she’s spent the last year traumatizing their family. Any comments?

Lucy says, Laura knows she and Martin did have that one date, but then Valentin pointed out it could be a conflict of interest. So she and Martin discussed it, and decided not pursue things. Laura says, Martin is her brother; they talk. And actually, he’s very excited to see Lucy again after he comes home from visiting his mother next week. Lucy says, so when Laura talks to Martin, he mentions her? Laura says, yes. She and Martin haven’t been in each other’s lives for very long, but she can see a change in him. He’s lighter when he talks about Lucy, and Laura thinks his life is better with her in it. Lucy says, if she’s being honest, she’s quite fond of Martin. It’s been very hard, running around avoiding Valentin. It’s ridiculous. So she’s kind of been sending out this positive energy to the universe, asking the benevolent spirits if they’d help Valentin see that it’s okay that she and Martin could possibly be a couple. Of course (🍷), she’d never ask Martin to choose between his best friend, slash, most lucrative client ever. Laura says she can’t speak for her brother, but she doesn’t think it would be a hard choice for him. He’d choose Lucy hands down. Lucy thanks her, and says she thinks it’s just lovely to have Laura’s support. Laura says, of course (🍷), and tells Aiden that she’s going inside to get coffee. She asks if Lucy would mind waiting with him, and Lucy says she’d love it. Laura goes inside, and Lucy sits down. Aiden wonders if he can ask Lucy a question, and she tells him, yeah, shoot. What’s on his mind? He asks if she really believes in spirits.

Elizabeth says, she wishes Finn had run it by her first, and Finn says, she’d just turn him down. She says, yeah, because the whole point of her staying here was to show the intruder that their attempts aren’t working. He says, mm-hm, and she says, and this unknown mysterious person doesn’t get to dictate how she lives her life. He says, mm-hm, but that’s what they’re doing. She’s got Jake and Aiden staying at Laura’s. The only way to put an end to this is to expose who’s doing it. Chase says he respects everybody at the PD, but they can’t dedicate the time to this case. Somebody is still managing to sneak into her house undetected. She says, she knows. That’s the scariest part. She’s trying to convince herself this person doesn’t want to do harm to her and her boys; they’re just trying to send her a message – don’t forget me. Finn says he hopes she doesn’t mind he told Chase that her best guess is that it’s someone who doesn’t want her to move on from her husband. Chase says, but the woman who raised Franco has been cleared, as have her sons. He started thinking about other potential suspects, like Franco’s biological mom Heather Webber, but she’s still on D’Archam Island. She hasn’t even had any visitors since 2018. They can cross her off the list. Elizabeth says, whoever this is, they know intimate details of her marriage. It’s got to be someone close to her.

Nina tells Smoltz to get his phone out of her face. She gets up, and asks if Michael paid him to do a smear piece on her, but he says, no, nothing of the kind. This is a human interest story. Doesn’t she want her side of it on the record? Because Michael and Willow gave a very detailed account. These will be the first public statements made before the hearing is held. If he was her, he’d want to even the playing field, so to speak. She says she has something for him. Come close. She yells, go to hell! into his phone, and tells Alexis, great job cleaning up this sloppy tabloid. Nina storms out, and Smoltz says, when you get told go to hell often enough, it becomes meaningless. Alexis asks if Smoltz wants to explain himself, and he says he told her that he’d bring her a great feature, and here it is. Decent, upstanding young couple are being forced to defend their right to deny visitation with their child. He’s writing a legit story about the issues behind this legal battle. He thinks it will be a great read that will get him some real clout; same with The Invader. She says she has no intention of printing this piece, but he says he thinks she’ll change her mind once she reads it, which is the least she can do, since she screwed him over with his revenge porn story.

Harmony waits in a wooded area, and flashes back to Willow saying, Harmony owned her mistakes, and she’s a better person for it. She takes the syringe out of her bag, when Brendon shows up, and she keeps it out of sight. He tells her, what does she say? Is she ready to make all this go away?

Carly says she’s sure Sonny knows Nina’s filed a petition for visitation. Apparently, she’s running around town trying to collect character references. People who will say she’s a terrific person, and she’s deserving of time with Wiley. He says, Nina assured him that she wasn’t going to put him in a compromising position. She doesn’t want him to take her side, and he wasn’t planning to. She asks what that means, and he says, does he believe Nina should be in Wiley’s life? Yes, but if Michael doesn’t want it, he’ll do what he can to support Michael’s position. She says she’s glad he’s picking his family over Nina. She really wishes he’d done that from the beginning. Sonny rubs his head, since he forgot what a headache Carly is.

Willow asks if her mom seemed nervous to Michael, and he says, jittery is the word he’d use. She says she’d hate it if this public exposure is too much for Harmony, and he says, her mom has survived much worse. He’s come to realize that Harmony has Wiley’s best interest at heart. Willow says, unlike Nina, and he says, they didn’t want this. Nina forced their hand. They’ll get through this, and so will her mom. She says, as much as she’s dreading the hearing – it can’t come soon enough – she just wants this to be over. Nina strides over to their table, and asks if Little Miss Sunshine decided to get down and dirty with the rest of them.

Alexis says, for the last time, she didn’t steal Smoltz’s story. Yes, she took the lead, but their story was entirely different than the tabloid fodder he’d written. He says, fine. If she isn’t interested in balancing the scales, at least see what he’s trying to do here. He envisions this as something you’d find in The Atlantic or New York magazine; a five-part feature bringing heavy traffic to The Invader’s website. She says, okay, and he sits down. He says, this isn’t just about a family court matter. It’s about the gaps that exist in our legal system. Nina Reeves effectively kidnapped Sonny Corinthos. She traumatized the whole family, including the child in question, Wiley Corinthos, who was deprived of his grandfather for close to a year. Now she gets to traumatize the whole family all over again by petitioning for grandparent visitation. And get this. Visitation might be granted, because technically what she did wasn’t a crime. This series is going to put a human face on the legal system that doesn’t overlap with justice. Isn’t that the kind of story Alexis has been encouraging since she started? She says, true, and he says, be honest. If she didn’t know the parties involved, wouldn’t she jump at the chance to publish this story?

Brendon asks Harmony, what’s the hold up? Doesn’t she want him out of her life? Let’s get this over with. She puts the syringe back in her bag, and hands him some money, saying, here. He asks, what’s this? and she says, his money. He says, it’s barely a thousand dollars (I guess he counts fast), and she says, it’s all the savings she has. But she’s staying at Alexis’s for free, and doesn’t have the overhead of a motel anymore, so she can pay him in installments. It won’t be today; maybe not for a few months or maybe a year. He asks if he looks like a bank. He knew she didn’t have the money. She was supposed to get it from Alexis. He guesses that settles it then. If she can’t keep her end of the deal, why should he keep his? She says, he’d be foolish to tell anyone what he knows about her, and he asks, how does she figure? She says, right now she’s in his debt. She’s already made the first payment, and will keep finding ways to pay him. Hell, he can lord it over her for the rest of her life, but the minute he tells anyone, that’s over. He’ll have no one else left to pump for money. He asks if that’s really what she thinks, because he sees it differently. What if he was to tell Michael Corinthos that information? If Nina was to find out Willow was her biological daughter, oh boy, would that complicate their visitation case. Michael hates Nina. He bets Michael would be willing to keep him on his payroll indefinitely to keep that information quiet. The guy’s loaded. Maybe he should skip Harmony altogether, and go straight to him. She says, if he’s wrong, Michael’s first call will be to his brother, the police detective, who will have him arrested for blackmail. He says he’s willing to bet Michael would rather pay to keep him quiet. If the truth does come out, it will destroy Harmony’s relationship with her so-called daughter, which is what she deserves for trying to buy him off with pennies on the dollar. Keep her down payment. He throws the money at her, and says, he can do much better. He starts to walk off, but she stops him, and says, he can’t, but he pushes her to the ground. Her stuff falls out of her purse, and he sees the syringe. He says, what the hell?

Elizabeth says, what’s unsettling is, whoever’s doing this knows her, knows her family. It’s like a horror film when the call is coming from inside the house. Chase says, she doesn’t know for sure it’s someone in her life who’s doing this. It could be some random fan of Franco’s artwork. She says, who’s getting in and out of her house without breaking in? That is not exactly comforting. Chase says, in today’s world, there are all kinds of ways to get private information on someone; bank records, social media, ID theft. She says she’s just so angry at herself for taking something to help her sleep. Clearly she knew someone was in the house, which is why she made it part of the dream. If she’d just woken up… Finn says, so she could freak out the perpetrator, and they’d hurt her or the boys? She says, or maybe she’d find answers, and Chase says, that’s why he’s here. There’s another way to find out who’s doing this. He takes a small piece of equipment out of his bag, and says, they catch them on camera.

Lucy tells Aiden, does she believe in spirits is a very cool, adult question. Where’s that coming from? He says, a book report for school, and she says, it’s great for his school to be so open minded. She’s more than happy to share what she knows with a new age enthusiast. He asks what she means, and she says, she believes the universe is a great big complicated, intricate, loving system with many, many realms within it. He says, realms. Like where dead people go? Is that where ghosts come from? She says, some people call them ghosts. You could call them spirits or fates, an energy that keep us on the right path, and keep us from following our worst impulses. Everybody calls it a different thing.  He tells her, but she said she talks to the universe. Does that mean she can contact ghosts? She says, no. She doesn’t do that anymore. She learned her lesson. She doesn’t find herself so brazen to think she can talk to the dead. She leaves that to trusted, trained mediums. All this stuff can be tricky. For every loved one that just wants to fondly say hello, there are some really evil forces out there who are devious and will try to trick you, so it’s best to leave all that. Don’t even get involved. What she does, is put out positive vibes out into the universe and opens up her heart. That’s what she does instead. He says, right, and she says she hopes she didn’t confuse him too much. His grandma is coming back, so tell Laura that she had to go, but she enjoyed their chat. Ta! She leaves, and Aiden goes back to looking at the Ouija board article.

Sonny asks Carly if they have to rehash this again. He wanted to tell her about Nixon Falls. How many times has he said it. She says, then Jason died, then Sasha and Brando’s baby died; she knows. Phyllis comes out from the back, and says she found four empty cans of club soda in her office. How many is he going through a day? She and Carly say, hi, and Carly says, club soda, huh? Sonny says he told her, he cut back on drinking. Not entirely. The medication and the alcohol don’t work well together. She says she knows. She tried telling him for years, but he never listened. So what’s changed? Oh, let her guess.

Nina sits down, and tells Willow to admit she’s having a smear piece written about her. Michael says, it was a joint interview; he and Willow gave it together. Nina says, she’s come to expect dirty tricks from Michael, but now Willow’s joining in? And she’s still trying to act innocent? Willow says, she’s so fed up with Nina’s drama. There is no reasoning with her; no compromise. She wanted to go to court, so that’s where it will be decided. And if Nina has anything else to say to her, she can do it through Willow’s lawyer. Or she could always give her version of events to Smoltz. She’s sure Smoltz would love to talk to Nina. Nina says she’s in the media. She knows what they’re trying to do. They want to get it out in the press to try and influence a judge. Are these the kind of values Willow wants to instill in Wiley? Willow asks what kind of values Nina wants to teach him. How to lie to an entire family, and watch them grieve a dead man she knew was alive and well? Or maybe she could teach him how to break up a marriage, or sneak around people’s backs, like how Nina tried to use Willow’s mom  to work WIllow after she turned Nina down. That’s right. She’s not going to let Nina play the victim anymore. Willow is on to her, and so is her mom.

Brendon grabs the syringe, and asks what Harmony is doing with this needle. She says, it’s not his; give it back. He asks, what’s in it? Is it heroin, like Neil was using? Is she a user too? Did she hook him on this stuff? Oh my God. His family never understood how or why Neil was using heroin. It wasn’t like him at all. He never used drugs, not even when he was experimenting as a kid. But it wasn’t Neil. Neil never shot up. It was her. She killed his brother, didn’t she?

Elizabeth says, security cameras? and Chase says he plans on sleeping during the day, and keeping watch at night, but he can’t be everywhere in the house at once. These are motion sensory cameras, and the second they sense someone walking around, they’ll start recording. He’ll place them at key points in the house. She says, she knows he’s trying to help… and turns to Finn, saying, it seems a little invasive. He says he understands, but it’s only temporary; one, two days tops, until it’s over. Elizabeth says she’s not going to fight with them. She’s willing to sacrifice some privacy if she can get answers. Chase says, if something else happens, they’ll have evidence. No one is getting in this house undetected.

Laura comes out, and asks Aiden, where’s Lucy? He tells her, Lucy said she had to run. Ta. What does ta mean? She says, it’s just another way to say goodbye, and he asks if they can stop by Logan’s on the way home. There’s something he wants to make for Grandpa Kevin, and he needs an emulsion blender. She says she guesses it’s her prerogative to spoil him. Let’s do it. She walks ahead, and he buys a Ouija board online.

Alexis says, Smoltz is right, and he says, what now? She tells him not to make her say it again. It was painful enough the first time. It is an interesting pitch, and if it weren’t for the persons involved, she’d write it. He says, before she has any ideas to write it herself, Michael and Willow gave him the exclusive. She says, fine. He can write it. But only if he uses an even hand, the human element in a non-exploitive way, and he allows Nina to tell her side of the story. Only then will she sign a deal for exclusive rights to it. He says, awesome, and she says, if she finds out he’s been underhanded or messy in any way, she reserves the right to kill it, and she will kill it. Does he understand? He says he does, but trust him, she won’t be disappointed.

Willow says, every time she’s tried being diplomatic with Nina, Nina has punished her for it. She’s done making peace with Nina. Nina says, Michael must be thrilled, and Michael says, Willow was determined to find a compromise, but Nina made that impossible. She chose this every step of the way. Up to and including going to court. Nina says, fine by her. They want a battle, she’ll give them a battle. She leaves, and Michael says, looks like it’s on.

Sonny says, his drinking or not dinking isn’t entirely about Nina, and Carly says, right. He says, okay, and walks in the back. Carly says she’s tempted to drink herself, and Phyllis says, they do make terrific bloody Marys, but she figures she’s the last bartender Carly wants to serve her. They haven’t talked much since Carly found out Phyllis knew the truth about Sonny and Nina, while she was enjoying Carly’s hospitality. Carly says, that’s what Nina does. She puts the people who make the mistake of caring about her in compromising positions. Phyllis says she loves Nina, but can’t argue against any of that. So before Carly finds out in court, she’s going to clear the air. She did vouch for Nina’s character to Willow’s mother. Carly says she didn’t know Phyllis knew Harmony. Why would Phyllis have any sway with her? Phyllis says, back in the day, she and Harmony – or Lorraine as she was called then – used to work in the same building in New York.

Brendon says, it all makes sense. Neil knew the truth about Harmony, didn’t he? And what? Did Neil threaten to do something about it? Did she kill him? Make it look like Neil accidentally overdosed himself? Does she know how much his family has struggled with that? They blamed Alexis. Harmony is living with her now. Harmony pleads for him to please listen, but he says, the police will listen to everything he now knows. Today. She tries to stop him, and they struggle. She puts her hands around his throat, and his foot slips. She shoves him off the edge of the cliff they’re conveniently standing near.

On Monday, Brad wants Britt to just tell him if the answer is no; Laura tells Felicia, that’s a Cassadine move; and Willow asks if Harmony is going somewhere.

👧🏻 Who’s Your Daddy…?

I guess when you’re on a soap, you just roll with it. I remember Anders Hove (Faison) being surprised that he suddenly had children.

📣 Team Margaret…

I tend to agree here. I don’t know how healthy it is for the young ones to be involved in the drama. I don’t even know if it’s healthy to be watching it.

🥄 On the Defense…

Operative words, LisaR stirring the pot.

💎 Life After Diamonds…

I feel badly for this guy. It seemed like Braunwyn was pulling his strings. Good riddance.

💃🏾 Life Goes On…

Is it me, or does NeNe’s new main squeeze look like Peter?

🙁 Shah No…

This is just sad. It’s like finding out one of your relatives is a wife beater.

🍸 VanderSpin…

It’s not a bad idea. I mean, are these people going to be servers until they’re using walkers? Does anyone even still work at SUR?

👠 See You Next Channel…

For those who didn’t know, DWTS will be moving.

🎭 What’s New…

Original shows and movies coming to HBO Max this year. I can’t wait for the next season of The Flight Attendant.

https://www.thrillist.com/entertainment/nation/hbo-max-2022-release-dates-for-original-shows-movies

🐎 Doffing My Cowboy Hat…

A list of CMT Awards winners and the pictures to go with it.

https://www.cnn.com/2022/04/12/entertainment/cmt-awards-2022-winners/index.html

https://ew.com/music/2022-cmt-awards-exclusive-photo-gallery/

🐝 Quotes of the Week

Treat those who are good with goodness, and also treat those who are not good with goodness. Thus goodness is attained. Be honest to those who are honest, and be also honest to those who are not honest. Thus honesty is attained. – Lao Tzu

I have no money, no resources, no hopes. I am the happiest man alive.Henry Miller

If we do not maintain justice, justice will not maintain us.Francis Bacon

It is almost always the cover-up rather than the event that causes trouble. — Howard Baker

Everyone is entitled to his own opinion, but not his own facts. – Daniel Patrick Moynihan

Just because you are paranoid does not mean they are not out to get you. – Henry Kissinger

This world would be a whole lot better if we just made an effort to be less horrible to one another.Ellen Page

The only impossible journey is the one you never begin. – Tony Robbins

You know, everybody dies. My parents died. Your father died. Everybody dies. I’m going to die too. So will you. The thing is, to have a life before we die. It can be a real adventure having a life. — Jenny Fields (Glenn Close),The World According to Garp (written by John Irving)

🌳 Birds Singing In the Sycamore Tree…

For those who celebrate, a very Happy Passover and Happy Easter! There’s no spring break for the Dead, so a new season of FWD begins Sunday. Until then, stay safe, stay not consuming too many macaroons or chocolate bunnies, and stay leaving talking to the dead to trusted, trained mediums. You don’t want to invite evil, devious tricksters in. Don’t even get involved.

April 14, 2022 – Spencer Goes To Cameron For Help, Prayer Request, Reasoning, Reflection, Where Are They, Greatest Hits & Let’s

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Nina walks to lock the door at Charlie’s when two masked gunmen bust in. One of them says, don’t do anything stupid and you might live through this. Sonny says, everything’s fine. Take what you want and we’ll stay out of your way. A gunman says, shut up. Stay right there. Sonny says, nothing has happened and nothing needs to happen. Turn around and go, and this will all be over.

Dante comes up behind Sam, seeing her with his phone, and asks what she’s doing. She says she was forwarding his forensics file to her email, and he takes the phone out of her hand, saying, forwarding the PCPD confidential file to her email? She says, he’s mad, and he says, of course (🍷) he’s mad. What was she thinking? She says she doesn’t know. She did it for the right reasons. He asks, what reasons? and she says, Trina and Joss. Drew gets off the elevator, and Carly notices that Sam and Dante are having a conflict. Sam says, Dante told her that he didn’t think Trina did it, and he says, they have to do a legal investigation, and he doesn’t remember hiring her for her P.I. services on this one. She says she wasn’t doing it as a P.I., and he says, then in what capacity… Carly runs over, and says, it’s her fault. She’s the one… Drew drags her away, and she asks what he’s doing.

Drew brings Carly to a private area, and she asks what he thinks he’s doing. He says he knows exactly what he’s doing. Saving her from herself.

At the gym, Austin asks Chase if he can help with wrapping Chase’s hands, but Chase says he’s good. Spinelli says, as it stands, it would be wise for Austin to keep his hands free, and Austin asks, why is that? Spinelli says, because insulting a woman’s honor does not go unnoticed. Not by him. Brook and Maxie come in, and Brook says, they had champagne this morning and now they’re working out. They’re doing this day backwards. Maxie says, Brook will do so much better once she gets her sweat on. She sees Spinelli, and says, then again, cardio is way overrated.

Josslyn goes to the gallery, and asks if Trina is okay. They hug, and Trina says, she didn’t have to come, but Josslyn says she did. She could tell Trina was upset. Trina says, from her text, and Josslyn says, that’s how well she knows Trina. Trina asks if Josslyn wasn’t hanging out with Cam, but Josslyn says she was already on her way home. Stop asking her questions; what happened? Trina says, Spencer happened.

Cameron opens the door to Spencer, and says, what do you want? Spencer says, wow. Welcomes don’t come warmer than that. Cameron asks if he was expecting something different, and Spencer says, he knows Cameron is pissed at him – Cameron says, that would be an understatement – but he could really use a friend right now. Cameron says, he’s come to the wrong place.

Sasha and Brando head back to Charlie’s, Sasha saying, she can’t believe Brando forgot to invite Sonny. They see what’s going on through the window, and Brando tells Sasha, call the police.

Brook says, Maxie invited her boyfriend, her baby dad, and Chase? Maxie says, to a dance cardio class? She most certainly did not. She goes over to them, and says, this is certainly quite the trio. Brook joins them, and tells Chase, hi. Spinelli says, had he known Maxie was going to be here, he’d have taken this elsewhere. She says, taken what? What is he doing? Austin says, defending her honor apparently, and Spinelli says, the doctor has to answer for his transgressions. Maxie says, let’s have a little chat. Come on. Austin and Spinelli follow her, and Chase tells Brook, he heard the Deception IPO launch was a success; social media went crazy and the stock price went through the roof. She says, yeah, thanks, and he asks how she is. She says she’s good. Him? He says, not so great, and she asks, what’s wrong? Is he feeling okay? He says he’s feeling terrible that he let her down.

Carly tells Drew that she was just trying to explain she was the one who put Sam up to it, and Dante was getting twitchy… Drew asks if twitchy is a technical term, and she says, she wanted Dante to know it was her fault; Sam didn’t do anything. He says he understands, and she says, great. She starts to leave, but he pulls her back, asking where she’s going. She says she’s going back out there, but he says, she’s not. She’s going to sit right here. She sits, and he says, here’s the deal. Dante and Sam are in a relationship. She says she’s aware of that. She was just trying to explain… and he says, what’s happening out there, Dante getting twitchy or angry or whatever it is, that’s between them. He sits across from her, and says he realizes she was just trying to explain, and that’s very well-intentioned, but when has inserting herself into another couple’s problems ever worked out? She says, never. Okay, he’s right. She made things worse, didn’t she? He says, it kind of surprised him that she wanted to get involved at all, and she says, really? After the whole Victor/bridge debacle? He says, this was a little bit different; Sam’s not in danger. She says she feels like she’s losing her mind. With the whole Josslyn video tape scandal, Trina getting arrested… He asks, what’s happening with that? and she says, he doesn’t want to know, but he says, yeah, he does.

Josslyn says, Spencer said he was worried about Trina? Really? After all he did was accuse her of being guilty? Trina says, it was kind of like whiplash. One minute, he was like, concerned, and the next minute, he was talking about how she can’t blame Esme for everything. Josslyn says, like hell they can’t, and Trina tells her, go on, say it. Josslyn tried to warn her about him. She said Spencer was sincere in the moment, but at the core, he’s a shallow and easily manipulated person. The only thing he has mileage for is being a lost little rich boy, and when it matters, there’s no there there. Josslyn tells her, if she said that, she didn’t say it nearly as well. She probably just called Spencer a tool. Trina tells her, she said that too, and Josslyn says she doesn’t want to be right. Trina says, and she doesn’t want to care about Spencer. Josslyn says, but she does, and Trina says, if she didn’t, it wouldn’t hurt as much.

Cameron says, Trina was already having a hard time as it is, then Spencer accused her of Esme’s crimes. Spencer asks how Cameron heard about that, and Cameron says, about Spencer’s little trip to the PCPD? Trina’s his friend, the real kind, the kind that shares stuff and have each other’s backs. Spencer says, it’s not what Cameron thinks, and asks if he can come inside. Please? He hates that Trina thinks the worst of him. That’s why he’s here. Cameron steps aside, and Spencer walks in, thanking him. Cameron says he hopes Spencer isn’t expecting any sympathy, because it’s not his fault Spencer turned his back on Trina and spawned this baby with the devil. Spencer says, Esme isn’t pregnant, and Cameron says, too bad. Spencer deserves to be tied down to that nightmare for life. Spencer says, okay, fine. So, no baby, but the other thing Cameron said is true; he let Trina down. Cameron says, big time.

Sonny tells the gunmen, leaving is still an option. They can’t ID them, even if they tried. One of the gunmen says, shut up and open the till. They want their wallets and jewelry. Nina hands over her purse, and Sonny says, tonight’s profits have already been deposited, so it’s only petty cash. The guy says, get it, and Sonny says, he’s going to go grab it, but the gunman says, not alone he’s not. He follows Sonny, and Sonny goes behind the bar, bringing the cash box out. Nina fingers her necklace, and the other gunman asks what she’s doing. Sonny says, he doesn’t want to touch her, and the gunman says, and if he does? pointing his gun at Sonny. Brando watches through the window, and Sonny says, he doesn’t want to find out. Take what they came for; get the hell out. The gunman by the bar tells Sonny, your watch, but Sonny says the guy’s not taking the watch. It belonged to his dad. The other gunman says, can you believe this guy? and Sonny says, if he wants the watch, he’ll have to rip it off him. Brando comes in, startling the gunman by the door, and Sonny grabs the other one. Brando totally kicks ass, slamming the guy on a table, knocking him out, and Sonny flips the other gunman over the bar. He asks if Nina is okay, and she says she thinks so. He tells Brando that he did good.

Chase says he regrets the way he responded when Brook asked him to sing her song, but she says she understands. Wanting to get off suspension is his priority, and she gets that. He tells her, she says it’s fine, but he’s getting the vibe that it’s not, and she says, his future as a detective is bright. Excuse her.

Dante says he never thought he’d have to guard his phone from Sam, and she says, come on. He says, it’s an official document meant for a police officer, him, for work. It’s not meant for a civilian. She sees that, right? She says, of course (🍷) she does, but it’s a report. Everything in it is eventually going to come out; it moves forward. He says, she’s right, but she doesn’t see where it’s a problem? She says, it’s not like she was stealing government secrets or tampering with evidence, and he agrees, it’s not. Her getting eyes on this isn’t a game changer. She says, all right. Then… He says, she went into his phone. She accessed private files without asking him. He thought they’d gotten to a place of mutual trust, and she says, they have. He says, it just doesn’t seem like it to him, or maybe she has a different definition of it than he does. He’s going to get privileged information, stuff she isn’t allowed to see. It’s that simple. It has nothing to do with how he feels about her. She says she understands, and he says, does she? HIs phone rings, and he looks at it, and says he needs to know he can trust her for this to work. He steps away to answer, and says, okay… He’ll be right there. She asks if he has to go, and he says, yeah, grabs his jacket, and leaves.

Drew says he doesn’t know if Carly got his message, and she says she did. She’s sorry she didn’t call him back. He says she doesn’t have to apologize. He knows things have been crazy. She says, he has no idea, and he says, so tell him. She says, so this tape gets out, and Josslyn is utterly humiliated. She knows Cam is too, but… He says, but it’s not the same. Both were victimized, no doubt about it, but at the end of the day, the guy ends up looking like a sex god, and the girl is labeled a slut. She says, pretty much, and he says he’s sorry, but he does give Joss and Cam credit for doing the article. She says, he has to throw some credit Alexis’s way too, and he says, wow, praising Alexis. She says, wonders never cease, but she really got the story, and the way we wanted the story to be told. He says, focusing on the victimization, and how much lands on the girl. Part of him wanted to get in to that with Aurora; pick up the story, give it more steam. But then he worried about piling it on, and she says she’s glad he stayed on the sidelines. Alexis was far enough removed that she could let Alexis handle doing the story, but with him, things could get tricky. He’s just too close. He says, in that case, he’s going to take advantage of that closeness, and she says, okay… He asks how she is. How is she dealing with all of this?

Spencer tells Cameron, he knows he said hurtful things to Trina. He doesn’t deny that, but it’s complicated. Cameron says, cry me a river. He misses the times Spencer was just an annoying snob and just pretentious. Now he’s a full-blown ass. Spencer asks if Cameron will please hear him out, and Cameron asks, why? So Spencer can bombard him with lies and excuses? Spencer says, no excuses, but he’s allowed to have problems, isn’t he? Cameron says, Spencer wants to talk about problems? He just lost his summer job that he worked years to get. And now there’s people on the internet critiquing his performance in bed, and he’s in a weird space with his girlfriend. Spencer says he’s sorry. Cam and Joss don’t deserve what’s happening to them. Cameron says, it didn’t just happen to them. A crime was committed against them. Spencer says he knows, but Cameron says he doesn’t know. Spencer’s not his friend. In fact, he wants nothing to do with Spencer. The way he’s jerked Trina around, gotten her to lie for him, and begged her to save him, and his disgusting girlfriend… Spencer says he knows Esme did it, okay? He knows she framed Trina. Now it’s his turn to try and save Trina.

Maxie says, Austin is a good man, and Spinelli would know that if he just gave Austin a chance. Spinelli says, Austin’s not worthy of her, but she says he doesn’t think anyone is worthy of her. She really likes Austin, and would like to see where this goes. Can Spinelli accept that? He says he supposes he has to, and she says, that’s the spirit, punches his shoulder, and walks over to Austin.

Spencer says, Trina is innocent; he’s always believed that. Cameron says, really? Or is Spencer just telling him that? Spencer says, really, and Cameron asks, then why is he pretending to be on Team Esme? Spencer says, he’s trying to get Esme to lower her guard, so that she can lead him to something, anything that will exonerate Trina. Cameron says, that sounds really shady, and Spencer says he’s sorry. Does Cameron have a better idea? Cameron says, no, but is it really worth hurting Trina? Spencer says, Cameron should have seen the look in Trina’s eyes when he just left her at the gallery. It gutted him. And he hasn’t been able to lose that feeling since he stupidly left with Esme the night of their ski trip. Cameron asks if Spencer means that, and Spencer nods. Cameron says, Spencer does have feelings for Trina. Okay. He thinks they both have problems.

Outside Kelly’s, Josslyn asks if Trina is okay, and Trina says, it sounded like a good idea at the time, but now that she’s here… Josslyn says, Spencer’s not working, and Trina says, it’s not that. Josslyn says she gets it. When the video came out, she didn’t want to go anywhere. She didn’t want to come here, she didn’t want to go to the MetroCourt, and especially not class. But then she realized hiding doesn’t help; it makes things worse. Trina says she’s not hiding per se. She just doesn’t want to feel like she’s being put under a microscope. Josslyn says, the microscope is not real, and Trina asks if she’s sure about that. Josslyn says, it’s good for them to be seen together. Would she really be hanging out with the person who made a sex tape of her and her boyfriend? Trina says, probably not, and Josslyn says, so let’s go inside, heads held high, order dessert. Trina says, speak for herself. She’s ordering potato wedges. Josslyn says, you rebel, and they go inside.

Carly says, how is she? and Drew says, that’s a bit of a loaded question. She says she just wants to come out swinging and fix everything, but it’s Josslyn’s fight, not hers. He says, still, it would feel pretty good to lay into somebody, and she says, not somebody; Esme Prince. He says, Spencer’s girlfriend? and Carly says, she made and sent that video, and framed Trina. He asks if they’re trusting her instincts on this, which he absolutely does, or is it based on fact? She says, a little bit of both, and he says, fair enough. She says, this girl has a history of deviant behavior; beyond sneakiness or manipulation. He says, straight up evil, and she says, yeah, and this so-called evidence against Trina? It’s all circumstantial, not to mention ridiculously convenient. She knows Trina. She’d never do something like this. So that’s where she’s at. She just wants all this to be over. She wants Josslyn, Trina, and Cameron to go on with their lives, and she wants Esme to go down. He says, meaning Carly wants to take her down, and she says, hell yeah. He says he gets it. That’s how he felt about Peter August. He wanted it to be him who got Peter, him who got the evidence to put him away. And after he escaped yet another conviction, he wanted to be the guy to shoot him, and end that miserable life, but it’s not how it panned out.

Brando comes out of Charlie’s, and hugs Sasha, as the cops take the gunmen away. He tells her that he’s fine, and she says, it was dangerous. He tells her, don’t forget sexy, and she says, he could have been killed. He says he had to do something, and she tells him, promise not to make it a habit. He says he promises. He’s not going anywhere. Inside, Nina says she’s glad Phyllis wasn’t here for this, and Sonny says, he’s sorry Nina was. She thanks him for protecting her, and he says, she protects him from Scotty; he’ll always protect her. They laugh, and Dante comes in. He asks if they’re up to answering a few questions, or do they need a minute. Sonny looks at Nina.

Dante says, so Phyllis and the bodyguard are outside being questioned. They were at the bank when these perps arrived? Sonny says, that’s right, and Dante asks if he thinks they knew he owned Charlie’s. If they did and they hit the place anyway, that’s a pretty bold move. Brando and Sasha walk in, and Brando says he should go talk to Dante so they can get out of here and go home. As soon as he’s gone, she digs in her bag, takes out her pillbox, and pops a pill. Nina says, Sasha, and Sasha turns around. Nina says she thinks Sasha knows what she’s going to say.

Spinelli sees Sam at the MetroCourt bar, and says, gracious greetings. She just looks at him, and he asks if something undesirable has transpired. She tells him, you could say that, and he says he certainly doesn’t want to push, but if she’s inclined to share… She says she just ruined her relationship.

Carly asks if Drew still thinks about the Peter thing, and he says, yeah, but he’s learning to be okay with it. Hopefully she can benefit from that experience, and prepare herself. Esme has wronged people she cares about, but it may not be her who puts her right. She says, that’s hard, and he says, it is. He has to remind himself not to go so far down that rabbit hole that it wrecks the things he does have. She says, Peter’s dead, so Drew can’t chase after him, and Drew says, that’s true, but there’s always somebody, right? He could go after Victor, and he will when the opportunity arises, but he’s not going to devote his whole life to it, because it’s not going to get him anywhere. She says she feels like that’s her problem. She’s looking at the rest of her life without Sonny, and she doesn’t know what that looks like, or what that means. He says, but that’s okay. She’s got time to figure it out. She says, but she’s not figuring it out. She’s pouring her energy into everything and anything else. Josslyn, Trina, Esme, and like he said, she’s getting nowhere. Maybe it’s time to pour that energy into herself.

Spinelli says, Dante caught Sam with her hand in the proverbial cookie jar, and she says, yep. He asks how they left matters, and she tells him, with Dante saying he can’t trust her, and without trust, it won’t work. Spinelli says, he’s afraid Dante’s not wrong.

Brook walks past, and gives Chase a look. Austin asks if Chase wants to talk about that, and Chase says, not with him. Austin says, fair enough. When they had that conversation about Chase’s marriage to Willow, he had an ulterior motive, and he regrets that. For what it’s worth (🍷), that’s not the kind of behavior he wants to repeat. Chase tells Austin, he said no to Brook, which he doesn’t do often, and Austin says he can’t imagine anybody does. Chase says, it’s not just that. He insulted her without meaning to, and it’s not the first time. Maybe Brook’s decided she’s done with him. Austin asks how Chase feels about that.

Brook tells Maxie, good thing Spinelli didn’t take Austin out. Not that she’d care, but Maxie likes the guy. Maxie asks if they should talk about the guy Brook likes, and Brook says, no thank you. Chase apologized. Not just for not singing her song, but the way he rejected her. Maxie says, that’s a start. Brook makes a disgusted sound, and Maxie asks, what’s really bothering her? That Chase said no to her song, or that he didn’t do what he normally does, come running when Brook called?

Cameron gives Spencer some water, and says, Spencer has to tell Trina that he believes her. Spencer says, he can’t, but Cameron says, she knows how to keep a secret. Spencer says, it’s not Trina who he doesn’t trust. What if she tells her lawyer? Scotty is also Ava’s lawyer, and with Esme living at Windymere, he can’t risk this getting back to her and tipping her off. Cameron says, okay. What if Spencer testifies at the trial? That would be a huge blow to the prosecution. Spencer says, true, but not foolproof. They need something that will guarantee Trina walks away from these charges. Cameron says, even if it means she hates him? and Spencer says, even if. Cameron says he’s sorry for blowing up earlier, but Spencer says, don’t worry about it. Cameron’s right; he’s been an ass. Cameron says, that’s because Spencer was protecting his friend, and Spencer says, just like Cameron. Which why Trina can’t know, and neither can Josslyn.

Trina asks how they’re going to nail Esme, and Josslyn says, a taste of her own medicine? Somehow record her confessing? Trina says, to who? The only person Esme would admit it to is Spencer, and he’s already gone to the dark side. Josslyn says, there has to be a way, and Trina says, Josslyn told her at the gallery that she left Cameron at his house, and Josslyn says, yeah. Trina says, that seems weird; kind of early for them to end the night. Josslyn says, everything’s fine. There have been a couple of bumps along the way – how could there not be? – but they’re going to figure it out. Trina says, they better, because Esme can’t take one more thing from them. Josslyn stares daggers at someone sitting at the counter, and we see it’s Rory in civilian clothes. Trina asks, what’s wrong? and Josslyn says, there’s this guy who keeps staring at them. She jumps up, and stomps over to Rory, saying, excuse me. Which one of us are you looking at, the video star or the criminal mastermind?

Cameron says, no way is he keeping this from Joss, but Spencer says he has to. He knows how Joss and Trina are. They tell each other everything; this will be no exception. Cameron asks, then why tell him? and Spencer says, Cameron basically forced him into it. Cameron says, so it’s his fault now? and Spencer says, no, but Trina can’t know, and if they want to keep it that way, neither can Joss. Cameron knows the saying about too many cooks in the kitchen. This needs to be a solo operation. Cameron says, this is unfair, and Spencer says he’s sorry he put Cameron in a bad position. Cameron says, well, he’s here, and Spencer says he needs Cameron to promise; swear right now to keep this between them. Cameron says he can’t tell if this plan of Spencer’s is noble or idiotic; it’s probably both. Spencer says, he’s just trying to redeem himself, but Cameron says, or maybe he’s trying to be Trina’s sole hero. Either way, Spencer is in way over his head.

Josslyn asks if Rory got his money’s worth, and Trina runs over, saying, it’s not what Josslyn thinks. She knows him. Rory says, sorry if he was staring, and Trina says she remembers him. Mr. Invisible, the cop who gave her a soda. He says he did give her a soda, but doesn’t recall wearing his Cloak of Invisibility at the time. She says, she wanted to be alone at the courthouse, and… He tells her, he said he would be invisible. Trina introduces her friend Josslyn, and says, this is Officer… He says she can call him Rory. Josslyn says, it’s nice to meet him, and she’s so, so, so sorry. She didn’t recognize him outside the courthouse, and especially not in uniform. Rory says, it’s cool. He gets it. He’s just glad Trina has friends to look out for her. Keep your chin up, okay? He says, it’s good to see Trina, and she says, him too. He says, it was nice to meet Josslyn, and leaves. Josslyn says, oh my God. She’s had a nice life, but can the floor just swallow her whole? She just reamed a cop. Trina says, she sure did, and they hug.

Drew says, Carly seems to be handling her divorce pretty well. She chose herself. She says she did. Her life; what’s right for her. Of course (🍷) that meant letting Sonny go. It wasn’t easy, but it was right. He says, she’s a survivor in the best possible way, not pushing people down and climbing over them, just resilient. He wants to be like that. She asks, how is he not like that? If anyone has been dealt crappy hand after crappy hand, and managed to get up and keep going, it’s him. He amazes her. She would hate the whole world. She’d be a horrible, vengeful person. He says, no, she would not. She would be who she is. She asks, and who is that? but he says he’s not going there. He’s not trying define Carly Corinthos. She asks, why? and he says, because she’s undefinable.

Spinelli says, what may have felt harmless to Sam, wasn’t harmless to Dante. She says she gets that now, and he says, so tell Dante. She appreciates the stability and safety she has with Dante. Then it stands to reason, he would appreciate the same. She says she thought she was giving that to him. She wants to give that to him. He says, she will. She made one mistake. Mistakes can be rectified. She says, but what if she doesn’t get another chance?

Nina says she’s so grateful Sasha and Brando came back. They really saved the day. Sasha says, it was all Brando, and Nina says, she must be proud of him. Sasha says, she will be, once her heart stops pounding. What about Nina? It must have been terrifying. Nina says, they wanted to take her necklace, and Sasha takes her hands. She says, even if they’d succeeded, a mother’s love can’t be stolen. Brando tells Dante, it seemed like amateur hour with those two yahoos. It could be a coincidence they hit up Charlie’s. Dante doesn’t think it’s any secret that Sonny is the owner. If they cased the place, they’d know for sure. A cop signals to Dante, and Dante says he’ll be back to take their statements. Sonny thanks Brando, but Brando says, Sonny would have taken them both down. Sonny says, maybe, but he’s glad he didn’t have to. Brando says, it’s just lucky they came back, and Sonny asks why they did. Brando says, it seems trivial now, but they forgot to invite Sonny to the wedding reception Deception is throwing for them. Sonny says, it’s not trivial because he can’t wait to celebrate with Brando and Sasha. He asks if Brando thinks those crooks didn’t know his connection to this place, and Brando says, it’s possible they didn’t care.

Chase suggests post workout smoothies to Maxie and Brook, and Maxie says, unearned? Brook says, the best kind, and Maxie asks if Austin is buying. Austin says he seems to have lost his wallet. Does she want to come help him look? She goes with him, and Chase tells Brook, come on. She can tell him how it felt to hear her song performed. She says, only if he’s buying, and he says, deal.

Trina thanks Josslyn, and says she was feeling sorry for herself. But tonight, the fresh air, the French fried the epic freakout, it made her feel normal again, if even for a minute. Josslyn says, if that’s the case, she should berate strangers more often, and Trina says, maybe just Spencer. Josslyn says, Spencer doesn’t deserve Trina’s friendship, and he can forget about ever having hers again. Trina says, Josslyn doesn’t have to ditch Spencer just because Spencer ditched her, but Josslyn says, she does. her loyalty is to Trina, always, and she knows Cam feels the same way. Their days of enabling Spencer are over.

Spencer says, so that’s a no? Cameron’s not going to help him? He knows he can be a really lame friend – Cameron says, the lamest – and he’s single-handedly trying to save the day, but he really thinks he can do it. It’s a lot to ask, but Cameron needs to trust him. Cameron says, fine. Spencer wins. He won’t tell Joss. Spencer thanks him, and Cameron says, he’d better find something that exonerates Trina. This is the last time he’s sticking his neck out for Spencer. Don’t make him regret it.

Drew raises his glass, and Carly asks what they’re toasting to. He says, resilience. Something they have in common. They clink glasses, and Carly says, wouldn’t it be nice if they didn’t have to though? If life could just be easy, once in a while? He tells her, who says it won’t be? They’re just getting started, right? She says she guesses they are.

Spinelli says, Dante will come around, and Sam asks how he knows. He says, because what mere mortal could stay angry at her? and she says she hopes he’s right. He says, don’t make the same mistake he did. Let Dante know he comes first.

Sasha asks if Dante knows how much longer. She’s not feeling so hot. He says, Brando can come to the station in the morning, and give his statement then. He tells her to have a better rest of her night, and moves on. Nina says, Sasha is really shaken up, and Sasha says she could have lost Brando. After losing Liam, she doesn’t think she can survive it. Dante tells an officer to let Jordan know he’ll have an update for her when he’s done here, and the officer leaves. Dante’s phone dings, and it’s a text from Sam: I messed up. I’m sorry and I promise to do better.

Brando tells Sonny that he’s heard some chit-chat at the garage. He didn’t think it was legit, but then tonight happened. There’s a perception that Sonny’s base of power isn’t what it used to be. With only two families to make marinara sauce covering the territories, and Jason gone, up and comers are sensing an opening. Just above a whisper, Sonny says, his operation is stretched thin, even with Brick stepping up. His business is vulnerable after these two clowns. Every lowlife punk will think it’s open season. Brando asks what he’s going to do, and Sonny says, he’s going to remind everybody that he’s the boss.

Tomorrow, Chase has it covered; Laura knows Lucy is still dating her brother; Finn asks how Elizabeth can think the threat is over; and Carly tells Sonny, his enemies will smell blood in the water.

🙏🏽 Love and Prayers…

I couldn’t find a follow-up, but I assume the surgery was a success.

🗑 Trashy Reason…

My guess is, because she reacts like a fourteen year old.

🌞 Alive Again…

I just figured they were so mismatched, it worked. Apparently not.

https://www.etonline.com/katie-maloney-reflects-on-buildup-to-her-divorce-from-tom-schwartz-i-was-just-dying-inside-182515

📀 And the Winner Was…

Life after Best New Artist.

https://ew.com/grammys/best-new-artist-grammy-winners-where-are-they-now/

🥀 Always In Our Hearts…

I probably couldn’t name one thing he was in, but it seemed like he’d always been around.

https://ew.com/movies/gilbert-gottfried-greatest-performances/

💻 Logging Off Like…

Come on down tomorrow for end-of-the-week soap, a spot of tea, some words to live by, and a tune that’s on my mind. Until then, stay safe, stay standing firm in the face of adversity, and stay not going so far down the rabbit hole of things that didn’t happen your way, that it wrecks the things you do have.

April 13, 2022 – Sonny Makes Phyllis an Offer, Rocking In the OC, Whose That Knocking & Money

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

At Charlie’s, Brando and Sasha look at their phones. He says, what about a place with its own dock? and she says she likes the sound of that. He says, they’re not imagining things, right? and she says she keeps pinching herself about how well Deception’s stock did with the IPO. He says she’s a very wealthy woman, and she says, what’s hers is his. They’re a team, which means they can live in the home of their dreams. He asks what she’s dreaming about, when Sonny comes by and says, there’s the happy couple. He and Brando shake hands, and Brando asks if Dante decked Sonny after he left. Sonny says, not Dante, but it’s not important. He just wants to congratulate Sasha on her marriage to his cousin, and say, welcome home. Phyllis comes out, and Sonny asks if she knows Brando and Sasha. She says, they’ve been to the pub a few times. Her staff appreciates the large tips they leave. Sonny says, Brando’s his cousin, and he and Sasha just got married, and Phyllis congratulates them. She tells them that their drinks are on the house. It’s always nice to see such a happy couple. Brando thanks her, and says, they appreciate it. Sasha says, they do, and Phyllis says, she heard they lost their son. They have her sincere condolences.

Dante and Sam walk into the MetroCourt, and Sam asks, why the change of venue? Pizza would have been fine. He says, it would have, but he wanted to do something special. Does she want to get a drink at the bar? She asks, why something special? and he says she asks a lot of questions. She says, that’s the detective in her, and he says he guesses neither one of them can hide anything. It’s the thing that makes them work. She says, one of the things, and kisses him.

At one of the tables, Nina sits with Britt, Scotty and Obrecht, and says she wishes Britt could have joined her at the spa for some pampering. Britt says she was working, and Obrecht says, she works too much. She needs to get out more. Britt declares tonight a rant-free zone. Let’s just enjoy our dinner. Scotty says, good, because he’s starving, and Obrecht says, it’s so nice to have a family dinner like this. It’s unfortunate Maxie couldn’t join them. At least two of her precious girls are with her. Scotty says, if they want a girls night out, he can just lickety split, but Obrecht says, he’s part of the family too. He’s not going anywhere. They kiss, and Ava runs over to the table. She says she’s glad she found Scotty. She needs him.

Cameron and Josslyn are studying at Cameron’s house, when Josslyn makes a frustrated sound. He says, she can’t concentrate? and she says she keeps thinking about that call with her RA. He says, they’re just looking out for her, and she says, asking if she feels safe rooming with Trina. Trina’s her best friend, and she did not secretly record them, and she did not post it. They should be more worried about Esme. He says, they have to find evidence that links her to the recording, so then Trina can accept all the apologies from everyone who’s been blaming her. Josslyn says, that does nothing to lessen the pain Trina’s been feeling.

Spencer goes into the gallery, calling for Ava, and sees Trina. He asks what she’s doing here, and she says, surprised to see that she still has a job? Unlike him, Ava knows she didn’t make that video of Joss and Cam, so here she is. He says, that’s not what he meant. He just didn’t know she’d be working tonight. He’s here to see Ava. She says she heard him asking for her, but Ava’s not here, so he can go. She starts to go back to her work, but he doesn’t move. She asks what he’s waiting for, and he says, her.

Cameron says he can see if Aiden has any award winning cookies left, and Josslyn says, award winning? He says, Aiden won a contest promoting National Carrot Day, and she says, National Carrot Day? He says, it’s a thing. Aiden won it by baking carrot ginger cookies. She says, it sounds weird, and he says he knows, but they were oddly delicious. Did she see his post about it? She says, no, and he says he’s sorry. He forgot she deleted social media. She says, that’s okay. She deleted all of her accounts; too many accounts just to block. The trolls were out in full force. He says, the internet will find something else to fixate on very soon, and she says, until Trina’s trial starts up again. Then the whole thing blows up. She can’t believe she’s saying those words – Trina’s trial. It’s insane that she’s been arrested. He says, she’d never do anything so hurtful, and Josslyn says, it has to be Esme. No doubt she’s confident that she’s pulled this off and covered her tracks, but she is not that smart. There has to be evidence tying her to the video. He says, they have to find it before it’s too late.

Esme comes into the living room, where Nikolas is watching the fire, and asks if Alexis left. He says, she did, and Esme says, Alexis doesn’t want her here, does she? He says, all that matters is what he wants (spoken like a true Cassadine), and he wants her to stay. She thanks him, and says, her hope is that she can help him and Spence heal their relationship. He says, they’re making progress, doesn’t she think? but she says she doesn’t think, she knows. Not that she’s surprised. The more time she spends with Nikolas, the more she realizes what a great father he is.

Sam and Dante clink beer glasses at the bar, and Sam asks what they’re really doing here. Not that she minds having the best night ever. He says, it was just a really tough day at work, and when he saw her, he remembered how lucky he is to have her in his life. He just wanted her to know that. She says, believe her, she knows that, and they kiss.

Ava says she’s sorry to interrupt, but she needs to borrow Scotty; just for a couple of moments. It’s important. Obrecht says, Ava is too late; Scotty is hers. Scotty says, that’s okay, my schnitzel. He’ll be quick. He steps away with Ava, and Obrecht says, it’s so wonderful to finally have found her soulmate. Nina and Britt are long overdue. At least Nina has someone… Nina makes a noise, and Obrecht says, that leaves her Britta. Any news from the matchmaker? Nina says, matchmaker?

Scotty asks if this is about Ava divorcing Nikolas again. He thought she was going to give Nikolas more than 24 hours. She says, this is about his son, and he asks what Spencer has to do with this. She says she doesn’t want Spencer at the gallery, so she’d like for Scotty to arrange for Spencer to do his restitution someplace else. Like picking up garbage or sweeping the streets; either would be good. He asks if this is about Trina, and she says, Trina has been through enough. She’s not going to let Spencer hurt Trina anymore.

Trina asks why Spencer is waiting for her, and he says he needs to know that she’s okay. She asks what he thinks. She was arrested for something she didn’t even do. She had an arraignment hearing, which he didn’t even bother to show up… He says he didn’t think she’d want him there, and she says she didn’t. And how could he possibly think that would be even close to okay? He says, sorry, poor word choice, and she says she guesses that would really affect someone who was vicious enough to post a sex tape, but despite what he thinks, that person wasn’t her. He tells her, stop.

Sasha tells Phyllis that she and Brando are planning a long life together. They’re looking for their first home. Sonny says, if they need any help, just ask. Since Deception did so well in the IPO, they’re not going to have any problems. He’s a happy investor himself. Good luck with their house hunting. He and Phyllis go to the bar, and he says, Phyllis feels bad for Brando and Sasha, doesn’t she? She says, mm-hm. You never get over losing a child, but at least Sasha and Brando have each other. They can focus on building a life together. He says, they seem to be doing good. So how’s everything going with her? She says, look around. Business is booming. He says, that’s not what he asked. He’s talking more like about Port Charles; How’s life? She says she’s amazed at how quickly it’s begun to feel like home, and he says, she doesn’t miss her friends in Nixon Falls? She says she does, but when she goes back to visit, they feel more like the past. Port Charles is her present. He says, that’s good, and she asks what he’s up to. He laughs, and says, actually, he has a favor to ask her.

Scotty tells Ava, the judge would have his head if he tries to change a court order of placement over a couple of teenagers fighting. She says, this is more than a fight; he knows that. Spencer told Trina that he believes she’s behind that revenge porn video. How can she be expected to work with him? He says, unless Trina has some concerns over this thing, Spencer has no legal connection to her case, and she says, except for the fact he keeps defending the enemy.

Nina says she gathers from Obrecht that Britt hasn’t been matched with her soulmate yet, and Britt says, sadly, soulmates are few and far between. Obrecht says, only because Britt has been dragging her feet, and Britt says she filled out the ten-page questionnaire. Now it’s up to Society Set-Ups. Nina says she’s sorry, but she can’t stay for dinner. She promised Phyllis that she’d stop by and see her. She tells Britt to be sure to call her when she meets Mr. Right, and Britt says, when hell freezes over. Nina leaves, and Obrecht says, this has been more than just a few moments. Where has Ava taken mein Scott?

Dante says, his day is definitely improving, and Sam says she’s glad her plan is working. He asks, what plan was that? and she says, to destress him. Does he want to talk about it? He says, some cases are just tougher than others, and she says, Trina Robinson? The new evidence that he asked the officer to email him, any ideas? He says he doesn’t know, and suggests they get a table. They get up, and Ava comes by. She asks for a word with Dante, and he says, sure. Sam says she’ll wait, and he goes with Ava to a private area. He asks what he can do for Ava, and she says, he can stop wasting time and resources on this ridiculous case against Trina.

Spencer tells Trina that he’s sorry, and asks if they can start over. Seeing her caught him by surprise, and he’s reacting inappropriately. She says, in more ways than one, and he says, putting aside everything that’s going on right now, he’s worried about his friend. She asks how he does that, and he says, does what? She says, ignore the fact that he accused her of betraying her best friends, then humiliating them in public. Does he really think they can talk as if none of that happened? He says he supposes not, and she says, but that’s just him closing his eyes to the truth. How else could he stay with Esme after everything she’s done?

Esme says, Spencer doesn’t now how lucky he is to have Nikolas as a father, and Nikolas says he’s made a lot of mistakes with his son. She says, despite everything, she still sees their father/son bond. It might weaken, but it can’t be broken. She often wonders what kind of bond she would have had with her birth parents, had they been alive to raise her, and he asks if she has any memories of them. She says, she was an infant when she was adopted. Then she lost her adoptive parents too. It was hard growing up without a mother. He says, he and Spencer would agree with her, and she says, it’s not as though her adoptive parents left her intentionally; their deaths were unexpected, tragic. But she can’t help feeling that her birth parents just threw her away. She’ll always wonder if she’ll be worthy of their love. He says, children don’t have to earn love. Besides, she doesn’t know why she was put up for adoption. Her parents could have desperately wanted her, but it wasn’t possible to keep her. She says, like his mother couldn’t be a part of his childhood?                             

Phyllis says she’ll do anything for Sonny if it’s in her power, and he says he knows, but she’s bearing the brunt of running this place. He hopes it hasn’t burdened her in any way. She tells him, don’t worry. She’s very happy here. He says, good, because it would help him a lot if she’d take Charlie’s off his hands.

Brando asks if Sasha is okay, and she says, why wouldn’t she be? He says he knows Phyllis’s mention of Liam upset her, and she says, Phyllis was just being kind. Besides, she doesn’t need a reminder of Liam. She thinks about him all the time. Brando says, him too, and she says, it was nice of Sonny to welcome her to the family. Brando invited him to the wedding reception, right? He says, he thought she was handling that, and she says, they discussed this… He says, don’t worry. He’ll make sure Sonny knows. He looks over at the bar, and says, maybe later. It looks like he’s a little busy right now.

Phyllis says, she’d love to own Charlie’s, but she can’t afford to buy it, and Sonny says, trust him. The price would be more than reasonable. How does a hundred dollars sound? She laughs, and tells him, don’t be absurd. He says he’d give it to her for free, but then the taxes would kill her. This place should be hers; she belongs here. She asks if this is misplaced guilt about the Tan-O burning down, and he says, it wouldn’t have happened if she and Lenny hadn’t taken him in. She says, Sonny… and he says, listen to him. She gave him a home. It’s the most beautiful thing anyone could do, and how does he repay that? He smacks the bar, and says, this is a start. Understand him? Phyllis nods, and Nina walks in.

Dante says he doesn’t know if Ava knows this, but he’s not the lead detective on Trina’s case. She says, he could still be the voice of reason, right? The Commissioner has lost her damn mind if she thanks Trina would make a sex tape of anybody, let alone her very best friends. Why haven’t the cops looked into Esme Prince? He says she knows he can’t talk about an ongoing investigation, and she says she’s so sick of the party line. He says, how about this one? They’re following the evidence. She suggests he follow the evidence that leads to Esme’s guilt, before Trina ends up in prison. She leaves, and Dante goes back to Sam, who says, sorry she left him without any back-up. He says, she kind of did, but really, they shouldn’t both have to deal with it. Sam says, she was out of line, and Dante says, yeah, but she was also right.

Obrecht says she hopes Scotty billed Ava for his time, but he says, as a lawyer, it’s never nine to five. He’s always got to be on call for his clients, especially the ones who pay so well. She says she finds his work ethic strangely sexy, and kisses him. Britt rolls her eyes, and says, gross.

Nikolas tells Esme, true. He didn’t meet his mother until he was a teenager. She says, Spence told her about it. She has to admit, it’s nice to talk to someone else who had a lonely childhood. He asks if she didn’t have adoptive brothers and sisters, and she says she did, but they were never close. After her adoptive parents died, the only one who cared about her was Nanny Maggie. Nikolas says, that’s someone, and asks if  they’re still in touch. She says, when she was sent away to boarding school, Maggie found another job, and they lost touch. He says, so Spencer never met her, and she says she’s afraid not, but they really would have liked one another. And Maggie would have liked the fact Esme found someone who really loved her, however briefly.

Spencer says, his situation with Esme is complicated, and Trina says, it was complicated when Spencer thought Esme was pregnant. Ava told her it was a false alarm. Congratulations on dodging another bullet, but he still thinks she’s guilty. She starts to walk away, and he says, she was drunk at the cabin, and she said she didn’t even know what happened. She says, she didn’t walk around with a burner phone in case she got mad at her friends and decided to tape them having sex. And then send out an email while they’re in the middle of class. In case he forgot, she was with him when they got the video. When he was at his mother’s grave. When he decided once again that the rules didn’t apply to him. When he decided to sneak out of prison. She lied to the Commissioner to cover for him. He asks if she’s told her lawyer that he’s her alibi.

Josslyn says she might as well be watching cat videos, and Cameron suggests they take a break. She asks what he has in mind, and he kisses her. She breaks away, and asks if he heard that. Someone’s here.

Nina goes over to Brando and Sasha’s table, and asks if they’re recovering from their exciting day. Sasha says, they’re trying to, and Nina says, it’s no small thing to take a company public. Brando says, his wife is an amazing woman, and Nina agrees. She asks if she’s complimented Sasha on her speech at the launch party, but Sasha says her speech wasn’t that great. Nina tells her, stop being so modest.

Phyllis says, Sonny does realize he’s physically giving her Charlie’s. The place is worth a lot of money. She doesn’t feel right accepting; she’s fine as manager. Nina joins them, and Phyllis says, help her out. Talk some sense into Sonny. He wants to give her Charlie’s. Sonny says he’s selling it to her for a hundred bucks, and Phyllis says, which is ludicrous. Nina says she thinks it’s a wonderful idea, and asks Phyllis to please tell her that she’ll accept Sonny’s offer.

Sam says she knew Dante didn’t think Trina should be charged, but he says, it doesn’t matter what he thinks. He can’t let his feelings get in the way; that’s the job. She says, his job is to serve justice, and he says, the problem with that is, sometimes the law and justice aren’t the same thing. That’s the tough part about being a cop. She says, a good cop, and he says he promises her, he’ll do everything in his power to make sure the right person is punished.

Scotty asks if Nina left, and Britt says, a while ago. He says he guesses he only has eyes for Obrecht, and Britt drains her glass. She says she’s going to get another drink. Does anyone want a refill? Scotty says, sure, and Obrecht suggests Britt flag down a waitress, but Britt is already gone.

Cameron tells Josslyn, he checked underneath every bed and checked in every closet. No one is in this house. He even checked the alarm; it’s still set. She says she must be losing her mind, hearing things that aren’t even there. He tells her not to beat herself up. That kiss just now… Was he moving too fast? She says she wanted him to kiss her. She wants them to be close in that way again. She just feels so exposed. She does feel safe around him, and she’s not going to let a horrible video get in between them. He says, it won’t, and his phone rings. He looks at it, and asks, why is she calling?

Phyllis says, they’re teaming up against her? and Nina says, selfishly, she wants Phyllis to take Sonny’s offer, because it means she’s agreeing to stay in Port Charles. Phyllis says, Sonny doesn’t have to give her this place to get her to stay, and Sonny says he doesn’t have to do anything. He just wants to give Phyllis what’s hers. Nina says, she deserves it, and Sonny asks if she’ll do it for him. Please?

Sasha says she knows she and Brando talked about a house, but do they really want property to maintain? Maybe they should think about a condo. He says, up until now, he’s only thought as far as them living together. He never imagined that… She says, that it would happen this soon? and he says, no, that money wouldn’t be an issue. Where did that come from? She says, they did get married in a hurry, and he says, when you know something’s right, you don’t waste time thinking about it. She says, is he sure that’s it, or did she push him into this? Did they only get married because she wanted to?

Ava goes home to Windymere, and says, Nikolas looks thoughtful. Anything he’d care to share? He says he was waiting for her. He was wondering if she was going to come home. She says, of course (🍷). This is her house. She’s not going to let Esme chase her out of it. Where is that little snake anyway? Has she slithered off somewhere other than Windymere? He says he hates to disappoint her, but Esme’s still here. They had an interesting conversation about her childhood. Ava asks what heart-rending tale of woe Esme spun, or better question, how much of it did he buy? He says he pretended to buy all of it, and she asks if that’s his strategy. Be a sympathetic ear so Esme will open up to him? He says, the more they know about her, the better, and Ava says she already knows more than she cares to know. He suggests they talk about something more pleasant. Why doesn’t he make her a drink? She says, no thank you. She’s going to bed. He takes her arm, and says, sounds good. He’ll join her.

Trina says, her alibi hasn’t come up yet, and he thanks her for not ratting him out, but she tells him, don’t relax yet. She’ll tell Scotty everything if that means she wins the case. She’s not going to prison for him. He says he doesn’t expect her to, and she asks if he’s changed his mind about her. Can he see that she’s telling the truth? He says, it’s hard to believe that she’d do that to Joss and Cam, and she says, so he believes Esme did it? He tells her, he didn’t say that, and she says, then who? Him? Because he was the only other person that was in the cabin. He says, it wasn’t him, and she asks, then what’s his theory? Some random hiker broke in without her, Joss, or Cam hearing anything? Without any sign of a break-in? Or maybe it was a Sasquatch. How far is he going to go to defend Esme? He says he’s not defending Esme. He’s doing this for Trina. Esme set her up. Trina asks, then why is he still with her? and he says he’s only pretending to stand by Esme until she slips up. Until he has evidence that she’s the one who filmed and posted that video of Joss and Cam. That she’s the one who’s guilty, and not Trina. She says, so him saying he believed Esme was just a pretense to trap her? and he says, that’s why he suggested she move into Windymere. She thinks it’s so she’ll stay safe from his Uncle Sonny, but really it’s so he can watch her and try to get evidence that she’s the one behind the video. Trina says, he’s doing this to help her. Why? He says, because he’s falling in love with her. He’s about to kiss her, and she says, what, Spencer? Esme got his tongue? Is he going to keep denying what’s right in front of his face? I assume that was his fantasy, not Trina’s.

On the phone, Cameron says, okay. Thank you for calling and telling me yourself. Josslyn asks what the director of Lila’s Kids wanted, and he says he can’t work at the daycare this summer. She says, he was going to be head counselor; he was so excited. He says he can’t be in charge of the kids with the tape still out there, and she says, this is so unfair. They did nothing wrong. It’s not their fault Esme recorded them and posted something. He says, still, damage is done, and she says, they were campers at Lila’s Kids; this is not fair. He says, no, it’s not, but the director’s not to blame; no one is. Josslyn says, Esme is. She’s going to get everything she wanted.

Esme opens a box, and takes out a stack of letters. She takes one out, and reads: Dear Esme, I was surprised to get your letter saying you’re going to the United States with Spencer. I hope he brings you all the happiness you deserve, but I have to ask if being in New York is wise. No good can come from any contact with your father. Please be careful. Love, Maggie.

Ava says she hopes Nikolas had the housekeeper make a up a guest bedroom for him, because she has no intention of moving out of the master suite, and she certainly has no intention of sharing a room with him. He tells her, we say a lot of things when we’re angry, and she asks if he thinks she didn’t mean it. He says he thinks they’re both passionate, volatile people. He thinks they both live in the moment, and they both say what’s on their minds. Which is why they’re so good together. She says, this isn’t foreplay. As long as Esme remains in this house, he’s going to need a lot of blankets, because his bed is going to be very cold. He says, even after the vow renewal ceremony? but she says, there isn’t going to be one.

Britt looks at her phone, and the email says, congratulations; she has 8 possible matches. She scrolls, and thinks, duck pin bowling? It’s competitive? Is this a man or a twelve year old? Next… Hmm, not bad… She likes that too… She laughs, and thinks, and has a sense of humor. Could it be?

Dante’s phone dings, and Sam doesn’t see him anywhere around, so she takes it out of his jacket pocket. She reads, one new email from Rory, and sees it’s regarding the forensics report Dante requested.

Phyllis says, they act like she’s doing them a favor, and Sonny says, she is. Phyllis asks if Nina knew about this, and Nina says, they just want to make her happy, because when she’s happy, they’re happy. Phyllis thanks Sonny for his very generous offer… She accepts. Nina hugs her, and Sonny says, thank you. Phyllis says, before the finalize the paperwork, she’s got to drop off a deposit in the night box. Sonny asks if Rolph doesn’t walk her to the bank, but she says, he had to leave early. Sonny says, she’s not walking alone to the bank, and calls Frank over. He asks Frank to walk Phyllis to the bank, and make sure nothing happens to her. Phyllis follows Frank out, and Sonny tells Nina that Scotty came to see him at Pozzulo’s. Scotty’s going to subpoena him to be a character witness for Nina at the visitation hearing. Nina says, there’s not going to be a subpoena. She’s going to talk to Scotty, and if there’s a subpoena, she’ll fire him. Sonny says, they’ll see how it goes. He asks if she wants a drink. On the house since she helped him convince Phyllis to take over the pub. She says she’s good, and it was lovely of him to do that.

Brando says, he married Sasha because he loves her. He wanted to make that commitment to be her husband. She says, and not just to make her happy? He says, her happiness is a priority to him for the rest of their lives, and she’d better get used to it. He’d do anything for her. He married her for them. They kiss.

Obrecht calls Dante over to the table, and he sighs loudly. He asks, what is it? and she says she demands he arrest Sonny Corinthos this instant. Dante says, what for? and she says, for threatening her beloved Scotty. Dante says, her beloved Scotty can go down to the station and file a complaint all by himself. Britt comes back to the table, and Scotty tells Dante, there’s no need to make it official. He’s just telling Dante, off the record, since Carly left Sonny, Dante just needs to corral his father.

Sam puts in Rocco as a passcode into Dante’s phone, and says, good thing she knows him.

Cameron asks what time Josslyn told her mom that she’d be home, and she says she’ll text and tell her mom not to worry. He says he thinks she should go; he’s not the best company right now. She says he doesn’t have to entertain her. She just wants to be with him. He says he wants to be with her too, but he has a history test tomorrow, and… She says, and he needs his beauty sleep. He promises to make it up to her, and she says she hates everything that’s happened. They need to prove that Esme’s responsible. He says, they will, and she kisses and hugs him.

Spencer says he wishes this wasn’t happening to Trina, but she can’t blame Esme for everything that goes wrong in her life. She tells him, get out, and pushes him, saying, get the hell out. He leaves, but pauses for a moment in the hallway.

Nikolas says, Ava wants to postpone the vow renewal? Can’t they work through this? She says, this is more than just a lover’s spat. The way she feels right now, any vow Nikolas made to her would be meaningless. She walks out.

Sam reads Rory’s email. Rory writes that it’s the Robinson forensics report Dante requested, and to let him know if Dante has any trouble opening it. Dante comes up behind Sam and asks what she’s doing.

Obrecht tells Britt that she’s sorry Scotty had to leave. His law practice keeps him so busy. Britt says she thought maybe he was running away from Dante, and Obrecht says, her Scotty runs away from nothing. Britt says, of course (🍷) not, and Obrecht says she’s sorry she and Scotty made Britt feel left out. Britt tells her, don’t lose sleep over it. She’s just glad Obrecht found love. Obrecht says, it’s a wonderful feeling. One she wants Britt to experience as well. She paid a fortune to that matchmaker. What’s taking them so long to find the intelligent and handsome man Britt deserves? Britt says, actually, she received some possible matches earlier, and Obrecht gets all excited, saying, really? She did? Britt says she’s still going through their profiles, and Obrecht says, perhaps she should go through them for Britt. A second set of eyes is always useful. Britt hands Obrecht her phone, says, knock yourself out, mutter, and leaves. Obrecht looks at the phone, and runs after Britt.

Brando asks Sonny to thank Phyllis for the drinks, and Sonny tells him and Sasha to have a good one. They leave, and Nina asks if it’s okay if she hangs around until Phyllis gets back. They haven’t really had a chance to connect. Sonny says, yeah, he’s going to stay there anyway, and wait for Frank and Phyllis to get back. Nina says she’ll lock up, but as she gets to the door, two masked gunman bust in, and say, don’t do anything stupid and you might live through this.

Tomorrow, Chase feels terrible that he let Brook down; Dante isn’t sure if he can trust Sam; and Sonny says, they can turn around and go, and this will all be over.

The Real Housewives of Orange County

Still inflicting themselves on Aspen, Shannon told Heather that the others were still up at 4 am when she got up to get water. Heather said she was going into town, and would meet Shannon to go shopping. Shannon asked if Gina was coming, and we flashed back to the night before when Gina was pretty drunk. Gina told Emily that she should have listened to her gut, and in Gina’s interview, she said, yesterday after seeing the mine, they went on the ghost tour and she learned about tommyknockers. We saw a clip of the guide explaining these ghosts and how to placate them (see below), and Gina told Emily that she was going back to the mine and bringing a gift to fix this whole thing. In her interview, Gina said, it wasn’t her; it was the demons. They asked Landon and Chef Leigh to make up a basket for them with things like liquor and chocolate. In Emily’s interview, she said Gina didn’t want to take responsibility for being out of control, and was blaming it on evil spirits. Gina told Shannon what they were doing, and when she and Emily left, Landon said they were from Aspen, and never heard of such a thing. Apparently, it is a thing though.

Noella called Nancy, who said it was all good on her end, and Noella said there was mean girl bullsh*t going on, and it didn’t feel good. We flashed back to her argument with Heather, and in Noella’s interview, she said she had enough going on. She wasn’t adding Heather’s negative bullsh*t to it. She was taking time out. Nancy said, if they couldn’t be nice knowing Noella’s father just died, forget them. Emily and Gina went back to the mine, and Gina placed the basket several feet inside, and said they were sorry. She did not give them permission to take up residency inside her or her soul. She wished them well and said she was sorry again. When they left, she told Emily that she felt good about it, and in Emily’s interview, she said, as an attorney, she liked contracts. If Gina wanted to have one with the tommyknockers, she was all for it. Let’s make this legal.

Noella met with wellness coach Betty, and told Betty that she’d just lost her father. Betty said the minerals from the mine held energy. Everything had a different frequency vibrations. The more they were grounded, the more they connected with everything. On the way back from the mine, Emily said, Gina had to work things out with Shannon, and Gina admitted she might have taken some things out on Shannon. In Gina’s interview, she said she’d known Shannon for five years, but Shannon had yet to treat her like an equal. Shannon had known Noella for five minutes, and now could say she was the one helping her. All Shannon was concerned with in regard to friendships was getting praise. Emily said Gina and Shannon needed to sit down and have a real conversation; work it out. Gina said Shannon made her a worse version of herself. They went to the shopping area in town, and saw a giant bear statue. With Shannon’s face superimposed over it, Gina told bear Shannon to stop calling her arrogant. Bear Shannon should be sticking up for her and being a good friend.

Betty said she was getting to Noella’s root chakras. May Noella feel grounded in every step, and know her place in this earth. In Noella’s interview, she said she’d shed lot of dead weight in Aspen, but she was still in the mourning process. Betty said, may Noella have the ability to create and digest emotion and external influence, to know what’s hers and what’s others. In her interview, Noella said she was on the path to healing. Jen and Heather headed for some shopping, and Heather talked about the sky getting pink before it snowed. They met up with Gina and Emily, and Gina said she was upset about the sh*t with Shannon. Emily said she thought Gina was hurt that Shannon cared more about Noella, when she didn’t get the same thing from Shannon. Gina said it bothered her, and Shannon walked in. Gina asked if they could talk privately, and told Shannon that last night wasn’t indicative of who she was. She was lashing out, and not addressing issues she had with Shannon telling people she was arrogant. Shannon said Gina had overcome a lot of obstacles, and was launching her business. It was amazing, but there was a line between confidence and arrogance. Gina had made certain comments that were on the mean side, like asking if Shannon even had any friends. Gina said, Shannon was the one who said she had no friends. The others completely ignored them, and focused on looking for expensive accessories, and Heather picking out a leather jacket. Shannon said, Gina didn’t own what she did, and Gina said she was never included when Shannon talked about her core friend group; it hurt her feelings. Shannon said she’d done things for Gina that she hadn’t done for anyone else, and she never said she had no friends. How dare Gina? When Gina was single, she invited Gina out with her friends all the time, and now she suddenly had no friends? The overall theme was, Gina hadn’t made the effort, and never reached out to her. Gina said she was trying more with Shannon than anyone else. In Heather’s interview, she said she was glad they were getting it out, but she figured the more they purchased, the less irritated the staff would be by the yelling and the spectacle. Gina said Shannon wasn’t answering her texts, yet said she was the one not making an effort. Shannon said she didn’t respond to one text because she was stressing out getting a lunch ready, and in Shannon’s interview, she said she wasn’t a punching bag. She was doing the best she could, and thought she did a decent job of being a friend. Gina got out her phone, and pointed out two texts Shannon hadn’t responded to. In her interview, Shannon said, big evidence. Two times. Shannon said she didn’t know as Gina wanted to get along with her, and Emily said she thought Gina was hurt by Shannon being so invested in Noella and her well-being, when the same effort wasn’t put into Gina. Shannon said, when Gina was going through a hard time, she couldn’t be there because a nasty divorce had consumed her. When she met Noella met, she wanted to be supportive. When bad things happened, she wanted to be there for someone. Gina said she didn’t feel like Shannon wanted to be her friend, and Shannon said she felt horrible that Gina felt that way. She didn’t want to fight. They hugged it out, and Shannon said she cared about Gina, and was sorry for anything done to hurt her. It was the last thing she wanted to do. In her interview, Gina said she hoped her friendship with Shannon was never the same after this, but it was better. It was like remodeling. You had to tear everything down and start over.  

There was a big to-do about Shannon having a splinter, and when that was over with, Noella told Shannon that she thought it was time for her to take her rings off. She asked Shannon to do it with her, and Shannon asked if she was sure. In Noella’s interview, she said she knew what it signified, and Shannon was a great friend. She told Shannon that there was so much unknown, and Shannon said, God had a plan. This wasn’t the right relationship for Noella, but she had a beautiful son. She’d look back later, and thank God this happened, or she wouldn’t be where she was today. It was a bit of a struggle to get the rings off, but eventually, it happened, and Noella said, they put up a good fight. They left for dinner, and in Emily’s interview, she said she had high hopes for their last night in Aspen. She thought it was important to focus on rebuilding and creating cohesion, not tearing each other down.

They went to the French Alpine Bistro, which confused me by playing German music. In Heather’s interview, she wondered how she was seated across from Noella. Noella told the sommelier about how she was going through a divorce, and when she was angry, ordered expensive wine. In her interview, Heather asked, what vintage do you suggest for misery? Shannon said she was excited for her Rack and Roll party. She wanted them to embrace the theme, and channel their inner rock stars. In Shannon’s interview, she said she made a great rib and liked rock and roll. They toasted to rock and roll, and Emily asked them to tell something they’d learned about someone that they didn’t know before. Shannon said Noella had taken off her rings, which meant she was ready to move on. Noella said she came to mourn the death of her father and her marriage, and wanted to go back to the OC fresh. Heather said she enjoyed seeing how Emily prioritized her life based on her kids, and Emily said it was the best compliment she could ever get. Noella said, it was the hardest job in the world, and gave everyone compliments. She said she was happy to have Heather in her friendzone, and in Heather’s interview, she said, if Noella wants to be friends with her, don’t lie about her. In Noella’s interview, she said, if the only way to have a good night was to kiss Heather’s ass – the waiter came over to their table and said a regular wanted to buy them a round of shots – now can they please have fun? There was drinking and dancing, and in Emily’s interview, she said, at the end of the day, they were moving forward, and that’s what it was all about. They toasted to Aspen.  

Mr. Puppers! Noella told friend Keni that she just wanted to be in a new house and rebuild. Keni said she knew Noella would manifest her perfect home. Emily was preparing to do the wedding photo thing, and invited Gina to come. They drank champagne as Emily got her makeup done, and in Emily’s interview, she said, it wasn’t a vow renewal or a wedding – we flashed back to her saying how they got married on the fly and had no photos – but it was a celebration of their marriage, their love, and how far they’d come. Gina said she could tell when Emily and Shane were having a rough time, and we flashed back to that. Gina told Emily, it was nice to know that they’d done the work. They deserved to celebrate. Emily was zipped into her gown, and put on some very expensive borrowed jewelry. Shane and the boys waited at the bottom of the outside staircase, and Annabelle joined them, everybody all dressed up. Emily came down the stairs to Canon in D Major, otherwise known as the main theme from Ordinary People. In her interview, she said, for her to walk down and see her husband and three children was huge for her. She never thought it could be possible. Everything she wanted in life came true. It was like a fairytale. Shane said she was missing something, and opened a jewelry box, showing her an engagement ring. She said, are you serious? and he said, no, closing the box, but then put it on her finger. In Emily’s interview, she said, Shane didn’t really propose, and we flashed back to her telling the women that it happened over Google chat. She said, there had been no engagement ring, and although Shane had given her a wedding ring, she hadn’t found it for three years. He told her it wasn’t over yet, and put a wedding ring over the engagement ring. He said, and ten years was a big deal for her. Then there was eleven, twelve, and thirteen. He added an anniversary band, and in her interview, Emily said she knew Shane had a hard façade, but this was a testament to how romantic and how he did love her. They took pictures, and Gina said they nailed it.   

Shannon got ready for her party, with core friends Dana and Lisa helping. Noella tried to figure out how to set a guitar on fire, and everyone got ready. Heather and Terry had a private kiki beforehand, and Heather said, Shannon was out of her mind. She had the idea they should form a band. She thought they’d just show up and learn a song in 30 seconds. On the flight home, Shannon told her that they were going to form a band, and she said, but Shannon had no song, no musical instruments, and Heather didn’t think anyone in the group had musical talent. What’s the plan? Shannon said she needed Heather’s help, so Heather called Richard Marx, who had a track from a song Heather and Daisy Fuentes had written. We saw clips of the different women doing their bit, and Heather told Terry that they were going to perform it at the party.  

Shannon got laced into her outfit, and everyone trickled in; Noella Hendrix, Emilectra, Gwina Stefani, Fancy Spice, and Thunder Storms. The last one to come in was Doctor Baywatch, who said she wasn’t a rocker, but was virally linked to one. They sat down for dinner, and in Shannon’s interview, she said she’d cooked the ribs all day in apple cider to point of perfection. Maybe she should put a pin in that. In Jen’s interview, she said she had a message she needed to share. Even though Ryne might hate it, the group needed to know, and he needed to hear it.

Jen tells everyone, the time before the last time they got together, she’d been in an emotional state. She didn’t show her emotions often, and thanked everybody for helping her. She usually didn’t reach out, but they lent a hand, and she was happy for the future. Shannon said she was in one of the most blessed places she’d ever been in her life, and was grateful. It was only going to get better. Everyone applauded, and in Shannon’s interview, she said, God had a plan. She had three thriving kids, and someone by her side who she was in love with. There was so much good in her life, she wasn’t focusing on anything but the positive. Heather said, her friends were a great blessing, and in her interview, she said, life was short and unpredictable. She wasn’t perfect, and had made mistakes, but she knew the people in her circle were worthy, and she was proud to call them her friends. Shannon told the women that they were taking half a shot, and then going on stage. In Noella’s interview, she said, it had been a year of change, and from that, rebirth and regrowth. As much as love was important, she thought it was better for her not to focus on sex and relationships, but give love to herself. They got onstage, and Shannon yelled, to OC Realz! the name of their band. She told the crowd that it was their first performance, and Heather thanked Richard Marx and Daisy Fuentes. The song was called Whatever I Want, and it wasn’t awful. It was better than Good As Gold, but I have the feeling there was some autotuning going on.  

This was the finale, and the text went this way. Shannon and John were buying a boat, but Gina was still not in the core friend group, which remained at four. Noella was dating a younger man who she thought was her twin flame. She’d gotten a new house, but had no sex dungeon… yet. Jen’s home was on the market. She and Ryne had separated for over a month, but were looking for a fresh start in a new house. I wondered why Mr. Puppers didn’t get an update. Emily had been in touch with her father, and thought of bringing the kids to meet him. She was still involved in fundraising for the California Innocence Project, but others said she was still guilty of stirring the pot. Gina had brought Travis on a tour of her hometown in Long Island, and they were saving up to buy a bigger house – one that could hold her overinflated ego. Heather and Terry celebrated the 25th anniversary of their first date, and were planning a party for the twins’ graduation. Sushi would not be served.   

Next time, the Reunion.

👻 About Those Ghosts…

A bit more complex than what the tour guide said, but that was the gist of it, despite Landon’s skepticism.

🙏🏽 Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep…

Hope to see you tomorrow for some soap and a flip of the coin. Until then, stay safe, stay humanitarian, and stay knowing that sometimes relationships are like remodeling. You have to tear everything down and start over.

April 12, 2022 – Preemption Junction, Princess Tale, Possible Match, Teresa Embarrasses New Jersey In Nashville, History Of the Banned & Raining

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

No GH today, but funny thing, they didn’t break into the rerun once. It was Peter and Maxie’s wedding interruptus, where Obrecht brought a video of Alex admitting she was Peter’s mother.

💎 Icy Refresher…

In case you forgot or didn’t know in the first place.

💘 Not Alone…

Apparently, I’m not the only one who thought of a Rory/Trina match.

The Real Housewives of New Jersey

The big move was happening for Teresa and her girls. All of their houses are so massive, it’s ridiculous. Unless you literally have ten kids, I don’t see the point of needing roller skates to get to the bathroom. Frank and the kids were moving in together as well, and in Dolores’s interview, she said, the kids had never lived with Frank. She’d laid the ground rule of no ho’s, and was hopeful, but everyone had to be respectful. Frank was surprised to find his daughter had a pet chinchilla, with the not very original name of Chinchy. The trip to Nashville was coming up, and Traci’s realtor friend had gotten them a house to stay in. Traci said it was stressful with everyone staying in the same house, because Marge and Teresa had issues. Dolores insisted that Teresa would be in a good place because Luis was coming with her. Like that’s a guarantee.

In Teresa’s interview, she said they’d done renovations since they’d bought the house. She was excited for the girls to see their new home. She choked up, talking about Nono in the kitchen, and in her interview, she said it was bittersweet. We flashed back to the housewarming, and she said they had lots of beautiful memories. She told Gia that they were ready for a fresh new start, and told them all to make sure to label the boxes. Take it from me, she’s not wrong. We flashed back one last time to various memories in the house, and Teresa turned out the lights.

Melissa thought getting away would help Teresa chill. Teresa whined that Marge was always talking about Luis, and it was getting old. Luis had been amazing. Luis met them at the new house, which was just as gigantic as the old one. In Teresa’s interview, she said Luis had two sons. One was 20 and lived with Luis’s ex, but the younger one, Luis Jr. was going to live with them. She hoped he’d love living with the girls. In this case, maybe’s it’s good the house is the size of a small country. I can’t imagine he’ll be thrilled to suddenly be living with several teenage girls. Teresa said she’d been a single mom for five years. Both she and Luis had been on their own for a while, and it was going to be amazing doing it together. In Gia’s interview, she said, it wasn’t easy leaving her childhood home, but it was nice to see her mom in love and happy. She thought as time went on, they’d enjoy their new home. Luis said he had a surprise, and they went outside, Teresa pointing out the meditation area. He said, Teresa deserved for everything to be perfect, and uncovered a paving stone with sempre insieme (together forever) on it. He said it was for her parents, and we flashed back to the memorial service. In her interview, Teresa said, Luis saw her family as his, and her daughters felt that. They were going to fill their new home with love.

Everyone packed for the trip, and Melissa thought Nashville was somewhere in the west. In Jackie’s interview, she said, she and Evan had celebrated their ten year anniversary there, but it was going to be a different experience this time. She was apprehensive about all the tension. Marge told Joe #3 that she wasn’t going to let Teresa treat her like sh*t. The fact that Luis’s name was being dragged on social media was reason to be concerned. Dolores told Frank, there were things you don’t touch on, but Frank thought Teresa should be more understanding. Switzerland Dolores said, they should understand each other. Teresa told Luis that she didn’t want negative energy around. Marge could apologize or go f*** herself. Jackie told Evan that Marge was one of her best friends, but she had to be careful where Teresa was concerned. The stress could cause a chain reaction; the last time, she couldn’t eat because she was so upset. Melissa told Joe #2 that she prayed Marge was smart enough not to dig in about Luis. She didn’t know why Teresa couldn’t get along with any of her friends; it put Melissa in a spot. Joe said he didn’t care who was fighting, as long as it wasn’t Melissa and Teresa.

Marge told Joe #3 that she’d say hi to Teresa, even though Teresa was an a-hole. She wasn’t starting off on a bad foot. That’s the second time I’ve heard that this week, but isn’t it the wrong foot? In Teresa’s interview, she said she couldn’t stand the sight of Marge, and Marge was full of sh*t. On the way there, Traci asked what state Nashville was in. Did anyone go to school??? Melissa said she was tired from Antonia’s Sweet 16, and we saw a clip of that. Joe #2 wanted everyone to get along. He wanted a lot. In the other limo van, Teresa whined that Marge started it, and she didn’t want to talk to her. She told Dolores that she wasn’t intimidated. They arrived at yet one more enormous house, where they were met with a fabulous spread. The agent told them to go to Nashville Underground, where they had a mechanical bull. Marge thought they should put names in a hat for choosing rooms, but Dolores said she’d promised Teresa and Luis the master. In Melissa’s interview, she said, it was just tacky to demand a room. In Joe #2’s interview, he said the women sounded like a group of chihuahuas barking. The guys all went to the backyard, where they discovered a ground level trampoline. The women picked rooms, while the guys goofed off, then gravitated to the indoor basketball court.

Teresa asked if Jackie was okay, since she hadn’t seemed too talkative, and in Jackie’s interview, she said, not only had Teresa been digging around about her husband, she’d been going hard for Marge for months. She was scared to say anything, since Teresa had been vicious to her in the past. Here’s where it got complicated, unless you’re Teresa. Teresa told the other women that whenever a certain blogger came out with something big about Luis, Marge talked about it. In her interview, she said she believed in her gut that Marge was running her mouth, and told the women that Marge was telling the blogger what to write. Everyone was like, no, and Jackie said Teresa was going into a spiral. Get the love bubble back. Jackie told Marge that Teresa was on fire, and Marge said Teresa was a nutcase. In Marge’s interview, she said, Teresa mentioned this before, and we flashed back to Teresa insisting Marge must be talking to Luis’s exes. Marge said, at the time, she thought it was just nonsense, but now Teresa as spreading rumors as facts. That was her M.O.; rumors are now facts. Teresa and Luis talked smack about Marge, and agreed Marge knew what she was doing. Marge told Joe #3 that Teresa said she was making up sh*t about Luis, and now she was pissed off.

Bill arrived late, and in Frank’s interview, he said, it was great to see the Wolf Pack reunited. It hadn’t been the same without Bill. He hoped the girls would take a page out of their book, and stop with the nonsense. Another one who wants a lot. The headed out to Nashville Underground in the two limo vans.

It looked like a really cool place, and Dolores told them, they say it’s the best barbecue in the world, but I know some Oklahomans who would beg to differ. The poor mechanical bull looked like it had seen better days. They lined up to ride it, and Melissa said, being a Jersey girl, she had to take her hoops off. In Dolores’s interview, she said she knew her place in this world, and it was not on that bull. This – she indicated herself – is expensive. All of it. Frank stayed on 6.34 seconds, but Joe #2 beat him at 12.11. In her interview, Melissa said, it was the first time her husband was proud of riding something for 12 seconds. Tiki was the winner, at 14.87, and in Jennifer’s interview, she said, she enjoyed riding him… watching him ride the bull. They ordered drinks and food, and Melissa said she thought they should go to a recording studio and make their own song for fun. We heard On Display, and in Melissa’s interview, she said she wasn’t missing her chance. Teresa refused to go if Marge was going, and Traci was like, WTF? They did a shot, and Marge joked that she knew everyone everywhere. This prompted Teresa to say, Marge talked to everybody, and Marge said she heard Teresa claimed she’d spread rumors to bloggers. How would she have any information on Luis? Teresa said, Marge had been talking to people in Luis’s past, inserting herself, and Marge asked how she’d know who they were. Since Teresa had nothing, she said, maybe they’d contacted Marge, since Marge knows everyone. In Marge’s interview, she wondered where this was coming from. She’d always defended Teresa, and now Teresa was spinning the story, trying to hurt her. Marge told Teresa not to spread rumors, but Teresa insisted it was true. Marge said Teresa was a sick, disgusting liar, and Teresa went nuts; screaming and cursing, and throwing everything off the table. Luis hustled her out, and Marge reminded her that she was still on parole. Teresa called Marge white trash, which was ironic considering Teresa’s behavior, and told Marge to stay out of her face, which was idiotic, since by now Teresa was in the next room. Frank wondered what happened, and Marge said she called Teresa a sick, disgusting liar. In Jackie’s interview, she said she felt bad for Marge. All she did was ask a few questions. In Frank’s interview, he was once again the voice of reason, and said, it was Teresa who came after Marge. Teresa cursed all the way down the stairs, and back at the table, Dolores said she was going with them. Marge said she was going to be upset if Dolores did, and Dolores said she wasn’t choosing sides; they’d come together. Marge said Dolores was one of her best friends, and in Jackie’s interview, she said, Dolores would defend Teresa no matter what, but was nowhere to be found when it came to having anyone else’s back. Frank convinced Dolores that they were the hosts, and Marge said Teresa was a thug and an animal. Downstairs at the bar, proving Marge’s point, Teresa said Marge needed to be taught a lesson. She was going to beat the crap out of that bitch. She picked the wrong girl and was a white trash c-word. A word, I might add, that’s used a little too freely among the Housewives these days.

Teresa stampeded back up the stairs, and Marge told her to stay away. Teresa yelled some more, threatening and cursing at Marge. In Jennifer’s interview, she said she didn’t condone Teresa’s behavior, but Teresa was a close friend. Maybe she could be the calming voice of reason. Somehow, they got Teresa back to the van, and she said she was done with Marge. Marge was a thirsty, disgusting, vile person. Luis asked why Teresa threw things at her, and Teresa said she wanted to smash the table in Marge’s face. Melissa said Teresa was acting crazy, and in her interview, she said she felt bad for Marge, but if she didn’t leave with her sister-in-law, she’d never hear the end of it. Back at the table, things had been cleaned up, and they sat down to eat. Traci said she was mortified, and Marge said, there was no coming back from something like that. Dolores said, Marge didn’t have to express the way she felt about Luis when she knew Teresa wouldn’t take it well. Teresa was a big girl, and could handle herself. In Dolores’s interview, she said, you didn’t tell Teresa what to do or when to do it, totally ignoring the fact that every single time, it’s been Teresa who has brought it up. In the van, Teresa said it started with Marge talking about her boyfriend all the time. They got back to the house, and Melissa suggested they go to bed before the others got home. Teresa said Marge needed to stay the f*** away from her. When she was done, she was done. She and Luis were going to a hotel.

Marge said she hoped things worked out for Luis and Teresa, but at the end of the day, if it was so great, she wouldn’t act that way. Teresa couldn’t hold her composure. Marge got a text, saying, Teresa and Luis were staying at a hotel. At the house, Joe #2 went to bed fully clothed, saying he didn’t even want to changed. He was stressed out. Teresa and Luis left for the hotel.  

Next time, the guys go out for a day of fun; the women go to the music studio; Teresa says, Marge should be ashamed; and at dinner, Teresa tells Melissa to tell Marge, STFU.

🚫 Other Banishments…

Those banned, but not forgotten.

https://ew.com/movies/everyone-banned-oscars-academy/

👋🏽 Ciao For Now…

Hopefully, GH returns tomorrow, and I’ll also be visiting the OC, if you’d care to join me. Until then, stay safe, stay reasonable, and stay not letting rumors are now facts be your M.O.

April 11, 2022 – Alexis Pays a Visit To Nikolas, Imploding Stew On Deck & Gonna Be

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Carly thanks Sam for coming by so quickly, and Sam says, of course (🍷). It sounded urgent. Are they talking, Nina, the video, or as her mom would say, a fresh new hell? Carly says, it’s the video, and Sam asks if Josslyn is okay. She imagines between the harassment and online shut-shaming… Carly says, it’s endless, and Sam asks how she can help. Carly says, she heard Trina was arrested for streaming the video? and Sam says, yeah. Carly says, she didn’t do it, and Sam asks if she thinks Trina was set up. Carly says she knows she was, by Spencer’s girlfriend Esme Prince. The problem is… Sam says, she needs proof? and Carly says, she needs to know if the PCPD has any evidence against Esme. Sam says, and Carly is asking her because…? Carly says, because she’s sleeping with a cop.

Dante tells new Officer Rory that forensics is dragging their feet on some labs and whatnot. Can he do Dante a solid and light a fire under them? Rory says he’s on it, and leaves. Jordan says, Detective Falconari, and Dante says, present. She says, he’s a rookie. He got out of the Academy like, five minutes ago. Cut him some slack, as she’s sure someone once did for Dante. DA Arden comes in, and Jordan asks what they can do for her. Arden asks if there are any new developments in the Trina Robinson case, but Jordan says, not yet, but they’re working on it. Arden says, keep her posted. They have a good case, but it’s mostly circumstantial. She needs more. Dante says, it sounds like she’s really going after Trina, and Arden says, she secretly recorded people having sex and distributed the video without their consent. That’s revenge porn. She might have thought it was some kind of prank, but in reality, it’s a felony. One she intends to prosecute to the fullest extent of the law. She leaves, and Dante asks, what’s up? Jordan says, conflict of interest, and they walk into the interrogation room. Dante says, they’ve been through this. Yes, the victim is his former stepsister, but he thought they were past this. She says, not with him. With her. Her job as Commissioner is to put Trina away. He asks, where’s the conflict? and Jordan says she doesn’t believe Trina is guilty.

On the phone at the gallery, Ava tells someone, she hopes they don’t think these pieces will sell for that. She’ll negotiate for a fair price, of course (🍷), but if they don’t like it, they’re free to find another gallery… Trina walks in, and Ava says, that’s what she thought. She’ll start on the paperwork first thing in the morning. Trina says, Mr. Weaver, right? He’s always ensuring his client’s work is way over market value. Ava hugs Trina, saying, she’s missed her so much. What brings her by? Trina says, her job? and Ava says, she doesn’t know why, but she just figured Trina would be… Trina says, hiding out? That’s not really her style. Ava says, good for her, giving her two thumbs up, and Trina says, actually, she’s been spending a lot of time with her mom, and Curtis, and his family. His dad’s been pretty nice to her, and she’s had some good conversations. Ava says she’s glad to hear it, and Trina says she’s glad to be here. Why doesn’t Ava head home, and she can stay and finish up? Ava says, that’s nice of her, but she’d rather be at the gallery, and Trina asks, why, when she has a handsome husband waiting for her at Windymere? Ava says, he’s handsome enough, but he’s also not alone.

Nikolas walks into the living room, finding a tray with snacks and a drink. He picks up the drink and sits down, saying, Ava, you really know what makes me happy. Spencer walks in and says, Ava’s at the gallery. She asked him to say she’s working late. Nikolas thanks him, and says, the set up is Spencer’s doing? He appreciates the gesture. Spencer says, no, although it is his style. Nikolas says, if Spencer didn’t go through all this trouble, then… Esme walks in, and says, she did. It’s the least she could do for ruining his life.

Alexis sees Harmony on a bench by the docks, and Harmony asks what she’s doing here. Alexis says she’s waiting for the launch to Spoon Island. What is Harmony doing here sitting all by herself alone at night? Harmony flashes back to Brendon wondering how much Nina would pay for the information he has, and Alexis says, Harmony. Hello? Obviously, something is bothering her. Whatever it is, Harmony can tell her about it.

Michael says he sees Nina made good on her threat, and Nina says she’s simply exercising her rights as a grandparent. Did they think she wouldn’t? Brendon stops one of the waitstaff, and asks for help. He says, you see that elegant woman talking to the unhappy couple? Is she who he thinks she is? The guy says, Nina Reeves, editor-in-chief of Crimson magazine. Nina says, Michael left her no choice; he drew a line in the sand. And Willow of course (🍷) is standing by his side. Willow says, of course (🍷) she is, because she loves Wiley, and Nina says, so does she, and she’s willing to prove it. Is Willow?

Sam says, that was direct, even coming from Carly, and Carly says, she’s sorry, but this whole situation has her… Sam says, cutting to the chase? She gets it, so she’s going to do the same thing for Carly, because she and Dante aren’t just sleeping together; they’re in a relationship. Carly says, and she’s all for it, and Sam says, because Carly thinks she can get Sam to spy on him? but Carly says, no. She’s happy for both of them. The spying is an added bonus. Sam says she knows Dante isn’t the lead detective on the case, and Carly says, maybe not, but Joss is involved, Dante’s got to take a personal interest in the case. Sam says, yeah, but he’s not going to discuss it with her, and Carly asks if she’s saying Dante always leaves his work at the precinct. Sam says she knows as much as Carly. The PCPD is following up on the evidence and it led them to Trina. What else does Carly want her to say? Carly says, the evidence is wrong.

Dante tells Jordan, anyone who knows Trina, knows she didn’t do this. Unfortunately, all the evidence they have points to her. Hopefully, the newbie comes back with something that can help us out. Jordan says, and by us, he means… He says, Trina, and she says, they can’t help Trina. They have to be objective. He says, officially, they are, and Jordan says, if the labs come back, and they’re not what they’re hoping, they’re supposed to hand them over to the ADA. He says, what is up with her? She got it in for Trina or something? Jordan says, honestly? It has nothing to do with Trina. Arden’s a crusader. She doesn’t care who the defendant is. If the evidence points to their guilt, they’re guilty. He says, and if it doesn’t? and she says, she’ll drop it. He says, so they need to find evidence that exonerates Trina, and she says, and they need to do it soon. Trina’s trial is coming up. Arden is a skilled prosecutor with a strong record on conviction. Trina could go to prison for a crime she didn’t commit.

Trina says, so Spencer moved back to Windymere. What about Esme? Ava says, she’s there too, and Trina says, she sees. So they kissed and made up because she’s having his baby. Ava says, Esme is not pregnant, and Trina says, like it matters. She knew they were going to get back together. After Spencer said he believed Trina was the one who made the video, it was only a matter of time. Ava says, Spencer and Esme are far from back together, and Trina says, whatever. She’s still living with him. Ava says, about that. If anyone’s to blame for bringing that alley cat back into the house, it’s not Spencer. Trina says, then who? and Ava says, you’re looking at her.

Nikolas says, Esme hasn’t ruined his life, but she says, hasn’t she? He and Ava were planning to renew their vows. He says, they still are, and she says, thank God. She knows how much the ceremony means to them both; to make a fresh start and celebrate having the kind of love anyone would envy. But now Nikolas and Ava are fighting because of her. Esme’s presence there is unacceptable to Ava. Nikolas says, that may be true, but it’s not going to ruin his marriage to Ava. Esme says, but they’re sleeping in separate rooms, and Nikolas says, so? Couples fight and sleep in separate rooms. Despite their present difficulties – she says, in other words, her – he and Ava are rock solid, and nothing and no one’s going to come between them. And Esme isn’t going anywhere. Spencer says, father’s right. They have to keep her safe. She says, even though she’s not carrying his baby, and Nikolas says, either way, she wound up in Sonny’s crosshairs. Spencer says, which means she needs to stay here… for now, and Esme says, for now. As a guest, and nothing more.

Harmony says she always comes here, and Alexis says, alone? At night? Harmony says she comes and looks at the boats, and breathes the night air, and reflects. Alexis says, her reflection doesn’t seem to make her very relaxed, and Harmony says, when you’ve lived her life, reflecting isn’t always a party. Alexis says, fair enough. She thinks she knows something about what Harmony’s thinking about, and Harmony says, she does? Alexis says, Carly mentioned that Harmony approached her about a job, and Harmony says, guilty as charged. Alexis says, it’s a good idea. Harmony told her what they’re paying her at Spring Ridge. Carly will probably pay her more and she can quit her job. Harmony says, maybe she can be out of Alexis’s house and hair sooner, and Alexis says she told Harmony that she could stay there until she makes enough to get her own place. Harmony says, even so, there are too many memories at her place, and Alexis says, Harmony recruiting her daughter in her house, trying to get her into Dawn of Day, isn’t a pleasant memory for either of them. Harmony flashes back to injecting Neil, and says, yeah. It’s just that the past is never really the past, right? It has a way of catching up with you.

Brendon asks the bartender to take his picture, and try to get Nina in the shot, and he does, without asking, what the blip is up with such a weird request?

Michael says, Willow doesn’t have to explain anything, especially to Nina, and Willow says, if anyone has something to prove, it’s Nina. Nina says, that’s exactly her point. How is she supposed to prove her love to her grandson if she doesn’t have the chance? Willow has the power to do that. Let’s stop fighting before we take anything in front of a judge; let’s reach a compromise. Willow says, and by compromise, Nina means she wins, but Nina says, Wiley wins; more family, more love. At the end of the day, isn’t that the only thing that matters?

Brendon asks if the bartender got Nina in the shot, and looks at his phone. Yes, you did, and the couple too. Who are they, by the way? The bartender says, Michael Corinthos and his girlfriend Willow. Brendon says, Willow Tate. He can’t wait to send this to his wife. She’ll be over the moon.

Alexis says, who does Harmony think she’s talking to? Her past hasn’t exactly been a picnic, but at some point you have to learn to put it behind you. She’s learning to do that, and maybe Harmony can let Alexis help her to do the same. Harmony’s phone dings, and she sees the picture Brendon had the bartender take.

Carly tells Sam, she’s known Trina since she and Josslyn were in junior high. Cameron and Trina helped Josslyn mourn Oscar. Trina was Josslyn’s rock. She is kind, loving, and smart. Sam says, and Esme? Clearly she’s smart enough to frame people. Carly says, she’s overconfident. She practically called Carly a slut to her face. Sam asks what she was thinking, and Carly says, she was thinking that Nikolas, who just walked through the door, was going to rescue her if Carly got mad, and that’s exactly what happened. Sam says, and Esme. She’s a manipulator who knows how to play people. Carly says, oh yeah. Josslyn said she was pulling strings the whole time the five of them were at the cabin. Esme made that video, loaded it onto the phone, then dropped that phone in Trina’s bag to frame her. And if Esme gets away with this, who’s she going to go after next?

Jordan tells Dante, arresting Trina was one of the hardest things she’s ever done. She was completely blindsided, came willingly to the police station, and genuinely wanted to cooperate. It’s clear to her that Trina’s innocent. There’s a knock at the door, and Dante says, come in. Rory says, here’s the forensics report he asked for, and Dante thanks him. Rory says, anything else? but Dante says, that’s enough for now; he’ll let Rory know. Rory leaves, and Jordan says, Rory’s a good kid, getting his name in there for those who don’t read Soaps in Depth. Dante asks if she wants to do the honors, and she opens the envelope. Dante asks, how bad is it? and Jordan says, bad.

Trina says, it was Ava’s idea for Esme to move into Windymere? but Ava says, it was definitely not her idea. She was so outraged by Trina’s arrest, she sought out Avery’s father. Trina says, she went to Sonny? and Ava says, she wanted to voice her concerns about what Esme was doing to Josslyn, and to Trina too; two young women she and Sonny respect and love like their own daughters. Sonny arranged to have a private chat with Esme. Trina says, she must have been petrified, and Ava says, one can only hope. Anyway, unfortunately, it backfired, and Nikolas came to Esme’s rescue. Then Spencer asked if the two of them could move in, and Nikolas agreed, without even mentioning it to her. There’s one small consolation, that she can keep an eye on Esme, and Trina might be interested to know, Esme has her room, and Spencer has his. Trina says, what about Ava and Nikolas? Are they okay? Ava says, that depends on what she means by okay, and Trina says, no. Don’t tell her they broke up because of her.

Harmony says she has to go, and Alexis says she needs to stop doing that. Obviously, something in the text upset her. She doesn’t have to tell Alexis what’s in it, but she does have to tell Alexis what she can do to help. Harmon thanks her, but says, there’s nothing anyone can do. The horn sounds from the launch, and Harmony says, the launch is about to leave. Go be with her nephew. Harmony leaves, and Alexis flashes back on Carly saying that Harmony told her something really strange. She said she owed Nina.

Nina says, they can do this without the lawyers and the judges. If Willow will just meet her halfway. Willow says she sees what Nina’s doing, trying to divide and conquer. Michael says, it’s not subtle, but Nina says she’s just trying to plead with Willow, because between the two of them, at least Willow might have a little bit more compassion. Willow says, whatever it is Nina thinks she’s doing, she and Michael are together on this, and Nina says, this is what they want? She didn’t ask for a fight, but she knows how to finish it. Michael says, she may have Scotty on her side. She may even have his father, but they have resources of their own. Nina may want to quit while she’s ahead, but he promises, this is not going to be pretty. Brendon says, excuse him. Nina Reeves? He can’t believe what a lucky break this is. Nina says, they’re in the middle of a conversation, but Brendon says, Nina doesn’t understand. The lucky one is her.

Sam says, if Carly is right about Esme, then she needs to be exposed. The sooner, the better, but Sam can’t ask her boyfriend for privileged information. Carly says she figured, but it was worth a shot, and Sam says she probably would have done the same thing. Carly asks if that means she doesn’t have to apologize, and Sam asks if she was actually going to. Carly laughs, and says she doesn’t know. She doesn’t claim to be objective. Her daughter was publicly humiliated and violated, and an innocent young woman is going to take the fall. And it’s only going to encourage Esme even more. Sam asks if Carly really thinks Esme is that dangerous, and Carly says she does now. Sonny had Esme brought to his office for a little chat, and Nikolas and Victor showed up to rescue her. Now she’s checked in at Windymere. Sam says, it’s one thing to have Spencer and Nikolas snowed, but Victor? Carly asks if Sam thinks Victor believes her, but Sam says she doesn’t know if Victor would believe anyone. But if he finds Esme useful, it could be a whole different kind of dangerous. Carly says, so will Sam ask if Dante knows anything? and Sam asks if Carly didn’t just not apologize for that. She doesn’t like the idea of spying on her boyfriend, and doesn’t want to risk her relationship, and end up… Carly says, like her? and Sam says, that’s not… but Carly says, it’s okay. Sam can say it. Sam has someone in her life, and Carly doesn’t.

The door to the interrogation room is slightly open, and Rory hears Jordan say, these results alone aren’t damning, but on top of everything else… Dante says, it’s not looking good for Trina. Jordan says, here’s what they’ve got. They’ll start with the video; the illegal recording of Joss and Cam. He says, which could have been achieved any number of ways. The person who shot the video didn’t have to be in the same room as the camera. Jordan says, then they find the phone inside of Trina’s bag, with her fingerprints all over it. Dante says, they made it look like Trina’s phone, so she would have touched it how many times before she realized it wasn’t hers? and Jordan says, the records show, someone used the phone to make an online purchase, using one of Trina’s credit cards. Dante says, it’s easy to steal credit card information, and she says, the purchase was a download from a fine arts website; some images by the artist Richard Molyneaux. Dante says he has to go with his gut and say, someone framed Trina, and she says, to us. For Arden, this is as close to a smoking gun as she’s going to get. This may be the thing that convicts Trina. Outside the door, Rory ponders.

Ava tells Trina, she and Nikolas are having an extreme difference of opinion, and Trina says, because Ava is siding with her against Esme? Ava says, Esme is a conniving little snake, and because she was furious Nikolas gave the okay for her and Spencer to move in without asking her. Trina says, how furious? and Ava says she briefly considered moving out. After she cooled down, she changed tactics, and now she’s back home. She’s keeping an eye on Esme, and she’s still able to keep Nikolas at arm’s length. Trina asks what that means, and Ava says, separate bedrooms. Trina says she’s sorry, but it sounds like Ava is giving Esme and Spencer exactly what they want.

Alexis arrives at Windymere, and Spencer says, her timing couldn’t be better. It’s been more than a little tense around here. Alexis takes it some crisis has forced Spencer to share digs with his father, and he says, actually, he decided to move back in. She says, so he and Nikolas are on the mend? but he says, not exactly.

Nikolas tends to the fireplace, and wonders what’s keeping Spencer. Esme says, maybe it’s Ava? but he says, she has a key. Esme says, of course (🍷). How stupid of her. She wants him to know she really feels for him, his situation. She knows if she remains in this house… but he says, stop right there. She’s staying on this island where it’s safe; that’s final. She says, if he insists, and he says he does. She says, in that case, there’s no reason for her to stay in the main house. She could fix up the gardener’s cottage and cook her own meals. Ava would never see her. He says he appreciates the offer, but it’s not necessary, and she says, better that than to watch him suffer. Maybe it’s because, even though her adoptive parents did their best, she never felt like she truly belonged. That’s why she hates to see his family in pain. Spencer comes in and says, look who’s here. Alexis says, as usual, Nikolas is full of surprises.

Nina says she’s sorry, but as Brendon can see, they’re in the middle of a very important conversation. He says, sorry to interrupt, but when he saw them all together… Michael Corinthos and Willow Tate, right? Michael says, right, and Brendon says, when he saw them together… They can’t imagine what this means to him, but it could mean even more to them. Michael says, it sounds like he’s selling something, and Willow says, like a bridge, or some really great swampland. Mr. …? He says, Byrne. Brendon Bern, of Greenlight Investments. Because of the success of Crimson, he came to town hoping to make Aurora Media one hell of an offer. Harmony gets off the elevator and stops, and Brendon says, trust him. It could be a real game changer for all of them.   

Sam says she wasn’t implying Carly didn’t have anyone in her life. She’s sorry if she made it sound that way. Carly says, she didn’t. Divorcing Sonny means letting go of a lot, but it also means being open to a new future with new possibilities, right? Right now, she’s focused on her daughter, and clearing Trina, and getting the goods on Esme, but not at the expense of Sam’s relationship with Dante. Please forget she asked. Sam asks if there’s anything else she can help with, and Carly says, she did help. Sam let her vent, and clearly she needed to. Now go. She knows Dante would love to see Sam. Sam says, tonight’s going to be a tossup between her and pizza, but she wants Carly to know that Josslyn is going to be okay, and so will Trina, but Esme? Carly says, she won’t. Damn straight. Sam leaves, and Carly heaves a Jasonlike sigh. Because somebody has to.

Dante says, so they get this file to Arden, then what? and Jordan says, up to now, they’ve followed the evidence. Dante says, look where it’s gotten them so far, and she says, now they do what he suggested. He says, one of his brilliant ideas? Which one? There’s so many to choose from, it’s tough to narrow it down. She says, they follow their instincts, their guts, specifically his. He asks where she wants him and his gut to start, and she says, Esme Prince. She’s a classic mean girl; petty, vengeful, but very thorough. She doesn’t think Esme is an evil genius, but she could be wrong. He asks what her gut says, and she tells him, it says, be careful. Don’t underestimate her. They might only get one shot to nail her, and they need to do it soon. Otherwise, Esme might just pull this off.

Trina asks Ava to think how this whole thing started. Esme wanted to separate her and Nikolas. Ava says, they’re not separated, and Trina says, they’re sleeping in separate bedrooms. She’s sorry; was that disrespectful? Ava says, not when it comes from a place of caring, and Trina says, Ava has something real with Nikolas. She can’t jeopardize that. Ava says, maybe Nikolas should have thought of that before he invited Esme into their house without her consent, and Trina says she’s sure Esme manipulated him into it. That’s what she does. Trina is sure Esme is loving every minute Ava and Nikolas are fighting over her. Ava can’t give her the satisfaction. If Ava wants to help her, show Esme that she’s not going to win. Show Esme that her marriage to Nikolas is stronger than Esme’s schemes.

Alexis says, Spencer tells her that Esme is crashing here now, and Nikolas says, not crashing;she’s their guest. Alexis asks, for how long? and Nikolas says, indefinitely. Esme says she’s so grateful for Mr. Cassadine’s hospitality. Alexis has been on quite a journey herself. Alexis says, has she? and Esme says, since Thanksgiving, and thanks Alexis again for including her and Spence. Alexis says, actually, Esme and Spence were the least of her problems that night, and Esme says, and now look at her. Between that amazing interview with Josslyn and Cameron, and those headlines with Trina, Alexis has made The Invader a must read. Alexis says she’s sure she and The Invader will have a lot more to say on both subjects as the story unfolds. Spencer says he needs some air, and excuses himself. Nikolas says, they have a guest, but Spencer says, Alexis knows how much he loves her, and cherishes their one-on-one time, which he’s sure they’ll have soon enough. Alexis says, absolutely. She loves him too, and can’t wait to catch up. He leaves, and Esme says she’s sure Nikolas and Alexis have plenty to catch up on. Please excuse her. She leaves, and Alexis looks at Nikolas.  

In the foyer, Esme asks Spencer to wait. Was it something she said?

Brendon suggests the four of them sit down and discuss his offer, but Michael says he doesn’t do business in restaurants, especially with a complete stranger with a deal that’s too good to pass up. Why doesn’t Brendon send his proposal to the CFO of Aurora, and it can be vetted and Michael will look it over. Now if he’ll excuse them. Harmony sends Brandon a text that says, you win, and he says he’ll do just that. He has the feeling they have much to discuss. He walks to the elevator, and tells Harmony that she knows where to reach him. Willow comes over and asks if Harmony knows that guy.

Sam asks Rory to let Dante know she’s here, but Dante comes out of the interrogation room. He says he was going to call Sam, and Sam says, long day? He says, yeah, but it’s better now that she’s here. Sam tells Jordan that she’s sorry to take her top cop away, but he’s in desperate need of some pizza, and Dante suggests they do something more fancy. Sam asks, what’s the occasion? and Dante says he’ll tell her later. He asks Rory to email the file to ADA Arden and CC him, marking it in the Trina Robinson case file as new evidence. Sam says, new evidence?

Ava says, as much as she’d like to pin everything on Esme, ultimately, it’s a matter of trust, or lack of it, between her and Nikolas. It says something about their marriage if he didn’t come to her about opening their home to Esme and Spencer. Trina asks if Ava went to Nikolas before she turned to Sonny, and Ava says, she wasn’t inviting Sonny to live with them. She’s also having second thoughts about Spencer working at the gallery.

Esme asks if Spencer remembers what she said to him the night they met, and he says, who could be sad on a night like this? She says, there he was, wandering; sad, alone, and handsome. She wonders if they can go back to the way they were, but he says he needs more time. He’s going to catch lunch in town. She says she’ll go with him, but he says, it’s not safe, and he’s going to the gallery afterward. She asks if he’s going to see Trina, but he says he’s going to see Ava. She asks why he doesn’t just wait for her to get home, but he says, they can cut the tension with a knife at Windymere. He needs to get out, and he’s going to make it clear to Ava that he needs to make restitution to her some other way that’s not working with Trina. 

Alexis says, now she knows why he’s been avoiding her, but Nikolas says he hasn’t. She says, of course (🍷) not, and while he hasn’t been avoiding her, Esme and Spencer have moved in and Ava’s moved out? He says, Ava has not moved out. What did Spencer tell her? She says, that they have a long distance marriage. She’s at her end of the hallway, and he stays at his end. He says, that’s hardly long distance, but she says, these hallways? That’s a big hike. Why is Esme here? He says, because Sonny threatened her, and Alexis asks if he actually heard the threat. He says he saw how terrified Esme was, and Alexis says, she was terrified? He asks what she’d have him do. Let Sonny lean on an innocent girl who has done nothing wrong? She says, her sweet Nikolas. Where does she begin? Clearly they’re talking about two different Esmes. He says, so it’s okay for Ava to believe in Trina, despite overwhelming evidence, but he’s wrong to suppose Esme might deserve a second chance? She says, they’ll get to that. Right now, she wants to talk about something else. He says he’s more than happy for a subject change, and she says, it doesn’t have to do with Esme, or Trina, or anybody. It has to do with him and his Cassadine DNA. In the brief time Nikolas knew his father, he was always trying to control Nikolas, and now he’s doing the exact same thing. Outside the door, Esme listens.

Willow asks again if Harmony knows that guy, and Harmony says, the man who just passed? No. She thinks she was in his way. He said, pardon, and kept going. Carly comes out of the elevator, and says she thought Harmony left, and Harmony says she did. She was supposed to meet Alexis here, but she thinks Alexis is late. She left her phone in her car, so she’s going to get it. She jets, and Carly goes over to Michael and asks, what’s going on? Michael says he’d rather tell her in private, but Nina says, let her tell Carly. Michael and Willow refuse to compromise, so they leave her no choice. She’s hired a lawyer – Scott Baldwin; she’s sure Carly knows him – and they’re going to court, so she can guarantee she gets to see Wiley as much as Carly does.

Trina says, Ava doesn’t have to decide if Spencer’s going to work at the gallery right this second, and Ava asks if she’s sure. Trina says she’s sure Ava should go home and work things out with her husband. She’ll finish up there. Ava hugs Trina, and asks what she’d do without her. Trina says, go, and show Esme that she can’t come between Ava and her man.

Nikolas says he appreciates Alexis’s concern, but he’s nothing like his father. If anything, he’s bent over backwards not to repeat the same mistakes with his own son. She asks how that’s working for him. Not that she’s judging. He asks if she’s sure about that, and she says, yeah, she’s judging, and given the mistakes she’s made, she’s really in no position to do that. He says, don’t let that stop her. We Cassadines are firm believers in double standards. She says, it’s what we do. He is right about one thing. He says, one whole thing; banner day. She says he doesn’t have his father’s cruel steak. What he has in an open wound where his childhood used to be. Forcing things on Spencer isn’t going to fix that. The more he digs in, the more he’s going to drive Spencer away, until Nikolas is lonely and unlovable like his father. Esme continues to listen. I can’t read her though.

Harmony finds Brendon on the dock bench, and he says, no wonder she likes it here in Port Charles. You meet all kinds of interesting people, like Nina Reeves and Willow Tate. She says, she’s begging him; please stay away from her daughter. He says, Willow isn’t really her daughter. Willow may think she is. Poor Nina has no idea. Harmony asks, why can’t he leave them alone? and he says he’s more than happy to. If she plays it smart, she’ll pay up. She tells him, don’t worry. He’ll get what’s coming to him.

Carly says, so much for Wiley’s best interests, and Nina says, having his grandmother – this grandmother – in his life is in Wiley’s best interest. Carly says, he barely knows Nina. He doesn’t miss her. This petition is all about her. She wants access to Wiley to fill some hole in her life, and Wiley’s interests be damned. But you know what? Have at it; do her best. Carly is confident that Michael and Willow will do their best as his parents to exclude Nina from Wiley’s life. Nina says, like she was excluded from her own daughter’s life? Carly remembers her daughter, doesn’t she? She’s sure there’s a judge out there who will sympathize with that. She starts to walk away, but Michael says, Nina. She turns back, and he says, one last – and he does mean last – thing. Whoever they get as a judge is going to get to know the real Nina Reeves.  

Jordan says, it’s good to see Sam, and tells her and Dante to have a great night. Dante says, they’ll continue this tomorrow, and Sam eyeballs the envelope in Rory’s hand. She and Dante leave.

Spencer walks into the gallery, calling for Ava. He stops when he sees Trina, and they give each other a soap look.

Tomorrow, Spencer asks if Trina told her lawyer that he was her alibi; Sasha asks if Brando only got married because she wanted to; Dante wants to make sure the right person is punished; and Sonny asks Phyllis for a favor.  

Below Deck Sailing Yacht

Last day of charter. Gary tells Daisy that it’s unfair for Kelsie to be working the whole night on watch, and then have to wait on the guests in the morning. He says he’s not getting in an argument about it, and she says, she’s not arguing. On deck, the guests remark that it’s so peaceful, and Daisy tells Gary that she’ll make sure someone is up. She doesn’t want it to happen again. Gary walks away, and she says he’s being irrational. He says, it was just a simple question. She doesn’t have to get defensive. Gabriela says, Kelsie only had to get two coffees, and Daisy says, Gary made it sound like she had to wait on six guests and their friends. The interior has more to do than the deck. If someone needs coffee, they can find someone; the boat’s not that big. Gabriela tries talking to Marcos, but he acts like an ass. Colin tells Gary that Daisy is fuming, and Gary totally spins what Daisy said to make her sound unreasonable and him, a saint. Daisy serves breakfast, and the anchor is home.

Glenn thinks they’re going to have bad weather at the dock, and tells Gary to blow up the new fenders. In Glenn’s interview, he says, he learned the hard way about unpredictable weather and wind at the docks. We flash back to their dock crash, and Glenn says they have a delicate, expensive paint job and a storm coming. They need extra protection. The table is cleared, and the guests pack. Colin tells Gary that they’re running out of time, and Gary asks Gabriela and Ashley to help. Gabriela says, the new fenders are the size of a house, and she’s not wrong. Ashley tells Colin, Gary said to put the line through the something, but luckily he knows what something is. In Gabriela’s interview, she says, they’ve lost one on the deck team, but she’s been a deckhand and a deck stew. Help me help you. They set up the gigantic fenders, and realize they need longer lines for them to hit the water. They don’t have anything better, but Gary has the idea of tying them a different way, and it works. Glenn says he needs the distance, and Ashley tells him that he has 75 feet. He says he doesn’t think so, and Gary says, this is making them look like idiots, but I don’t think they need any help with that.

Gary thanks everyone for pitching in, and with all the fender action, the boat has like, ten feet of padding. Glenn calls the crew to the dock, and they say goodbye to the guests. Glenn says, they were so much fun, and primary Jim says, the amount of fun, effort, and friendship the crew delivered didn’t go unnoticed. They thank the crew from the bottom of their hearts, but he knows what they really want, and hands Glenn the tip envelope. Glenn blows the horn, and everyone waves. Glenn says, that was a good one, and Gary tells the deckhands to put the covers on everything and call it a day. Glenn calls everyone to the saloon for the tip meeting.

Glenn says, the charter started on a bad foot. They had to say goodbye to Tom, but he has lives to consider, and the incident put them at risk. He thanks Kelsie, and says he was confident when she was on anchor watch; he slept better. In Kelsie’s interview, she says she likes the positive reassurance. Give her all the complements. Gary thanks Colin and the stews, asking them to hang in until the new deckhand arrives. The new fenders are a bit of a sh*tshow. The tip is a whopping $21K, or $2530 each. Glenn says, there are only eight of them, so he’s sending Tom a third of what would have been his share, and they’ll split the rest. I get distracted, but it’s something like another $1200, which makes this nearly the best tip ever on Deck.

The stews have an informal meeting, and agree this has been the best charter. Gabriela thinks the team work has improved, although there was the hiccup with Marcos. Daisy tells her to just be clear, and if she sees he’s dawdling, ask if he heard her. Gabriela says she thinks it was a miscommunication. She’d been giving him a play-by-play, but didn’t say the magic word, fire. In Gabriela’s interview, she says, how is this her fault? It’s a mind f*** actually. Everything’s fine. Everyone changes for dinner, and Colin suggests Gabriela and Ashley do paper-scissors-rock for Gary. When Gary comes out in a low-key Hawaiian shirt and white pants, possibly Dockers, Colin says, he can’t believe they waited 45 minutes for him to look like that. 

They go to a restaurant perched on a cliff, and sit outdoors. I’m not even sure there was an indoor option at this point. Kelsie takes a video of the table, and Daisy asks for wine; buckets of it. Marcos brags that he’s set the bar high, and it will be hard to maintain, but he wants to work as team to make it the best season. They clink glasses, and Gary and Daisy go for a smoke. Daisy thinks Gary should apologize. She’s sorry she got defensive, but she felt attacked. In Gary’s interview, he says, any issues he’s had with Daisy are easy for him to snap out of, and he doesn’t want to create more problems. They hug it out. At the table, Kelsie asks how many times Marcos has been in love, and he says, many. She starts to say something else, but he continues on about himself. Gabriela suggests he let Kelsie talk, and he says, f*** you. Gabriela says, Marcos is an insightful person, but tends to make a lot of things about him. In Marcos’s interview, he says, Gabriela is pushing his buttons. Maybe she’s right, but that doesn’t mean she has to offend him. Disrespect is a no-no. Kelsie says she’s never been open enough to be in love, and Gabriela tells Marcos, she just wanted to hear what Kelsie had to say. He says Gabriela is drinking too much, and will end up apologizing tomorrow. She doesn’t think so, and leaves the table. He says he doesn’t have time for drama unless it’s his.

In her interview, Gabriela says, when she was in her early twenties, she would have told everyone to f*** off and/or quit the job, but she’s more mature now. Marcos will never admit he’s at fault. Daisy finds Gabriela sitting on a bench, and Gabriela tells her that Kelsie was trying to speak, and Marcos made it about him. The conversation turned, and they went back and forth. She’s not apologizing for asking him to pipe down. At the table, Gary wonders what Marcos did to make Gabriela run away. Daisy tells Gabriela, men, can’t live with them, can’t live without them, but I’m not so sure the latter is true anymore because, modern science.

Back on the boat, the crew changes for the hot tub, while Glenn is once again wisely in bed reading with his headphones on. In Gary’s interview, he says, he’s never the first to leave a party, but they’re a man down, and all he wants is to catch up on sleep. Kelsie turns in too, and Gabriela drinks directly from a champagne bottle. After frolicking in the hot tub, and arguing some more with Marcos, Gabriela gets into Gary’s bunk. Shortly afterward, Marcos walks into the cabin, and wonders what she’s doing in his room. She tells him to keep it down; she’s trying to sleep. He says, she’s in his f***ing room. In Ashley’s interview, she says, this is what she’s talking about. Gabriela is fake. If she and Gary want to hook up, fine. She tells Colin that she’s not letting it get to her, and he asks why they’re fighting over Gary. Ashley says, they’re not, but if this is how it’s going to go, Gary needs to make a decision. During the car ride back, she didn’t kiss him; he kissed her. Colin says, she’s jealous; that’s the problem. Daisy says, bed, and Ashley whines that she’s not jealous. She doesn’t want or need Gary. Daisy tells Gary that she won’t get into the sh*tshow he created, but what time is he getting up? He tells her, ten, and Ashley wails that she doesn’t want any part of this. Kelsie listens from her bunk, no doubt glad she’s not part of it. Daisy keeps repeating, bed, and Ashley says Gabriela is making a fool of herself. In Daisy’s interview, she says she’s over it. She’s surrounded by idiots. Ashley moans that she owns up to her own bullsh*t, but not Gabriela. Then she promptly falls out of the top bunk onto her head. Daisy runs in, and asks if she’s okay. Ashley says she doesn’t know what happened, and cries, but tells Daisy that she’s fine. Daisy says, she’s okay, and goes back to her own cabin. Daisy tells Kelsie what happened, and says, Ashley will be fine. Her head is made of rocks. I literally lol.

Everyone slides out of bed in the morning, and in Ashley’s interview, she says, she doesn’t remember how she fell. She remembers Gabriela was in Gary’s bed. This is why she has major trust issues. We flash back to her telling Colin that she hasn’t spoken to her sister in years. Her sister screwed every guy she liked. Back at her interview, she says, it’s rude, gross, and disrespectful. Kelsie says, good news, zero hangover, and Gary tells Colin that Gabriela was in his bed. He doesn’t know what’s going on. He doesn’t remember kissing Ashley, and doesn’t want to kiss her. Daisy asks how Ashley’s head is, and Gabriela oversleeps, making her late for her shift. She says, being early girl is not her thing. She sarcastically tells Ashely, thanks for waking her up, and in interview, Gabriela says, she hates that she’s making a bad impression on people she looks up to, who are more experienced, and are great at their jobs. She wants to cry.

Gary tells Ashley that he didn’t ask Gabriela to hop in his bed. He doesn’t think he’s flirting too much, and she says he came on to her in the taxi. He says, sorry, and in the meantime, Gabriela is apologizing to Daisy. Daisy says she’s just mad about the liquor. She thinks it’s going too far. Ashley fell out of bed. They need to take it back a notch before someone gets hurt or fired. Ashely swears she doesn’t drink like this when she’s not here, and Daisy suggests she not drink like this here either. Glenn calls Gary, Daisy, and Marcos to the crew mess for a preference sheet meeting.

The primary is Dawn, a Chicago area vegan foodie. She’s bringing husband Tim, and friends Brian Marni, Lauren, and Jamie. They want to use all the water toys, and have five-star dining. Marcos says, it’s easier if they’re all vegan; one vegan is a challenge. Glenn says he’s sure Marcos can handle it. Their new deckhand will be here soon, but he doesn’t think before this charter drops. If they need help, ask Colin. They need to find a second wind. Daisy yawns. Gabriela tells Ashley that she wants to leave. She doesn’t trust any of them, and it’s an uncomfortable way to live life. Why she’s chosen Ashley to confide in, I’ll never know, but in her interview, she says her self-esteem is in the gutter. She wants Daisy’s respect, and knows she’s f***ing up. She’s imploding and embarrassed. Ashley thinks it’s just stress, but Gabriela says she doesn’t want to be here.

Ashley says she’s not good at this, but wants to give Gabriela a hug, and awkwardly does. She tells Gabriela, she doesn’t know what to say, and Gabriela says, she can start by telling her how she feels about what Gabriela just said. Ashley tells her that she won’t say anything, and Gabriela says, thanks for listening. Seriously, is she nuts? Ashley is going to tell Daisy the first chance she gets. Gabriela tells Gary that she likes their friendship, and when she gets in his bed, it’s just because she wants to snuggle. She apologizes, and he tells her, don’t be sorry, but don’t do it again. Kelsie asks Daisy if people aren’t getting along on the boat, and Daisy says it’s the same old. Gabriela tells Gary that she doesn’t like this version of herself on the boat, and Gary says, no one is perfect. They’re going to have personality conflicts, working together 24/7 on a small boat. Don’t worry. In Gary’s interview, he says, from day one, it was clear Ashley thought she should be second stew. We flash back to that, and Gary wonders if Ashley is going out of her way to make Gabriela uncomfortable. Wow. What an Einstein this guy is. He says, it’s the worst thing to do if you want to move up the ladder.

Gabriela asks if she and Ashley are okay. She just wants to finish the season, keep her job, and be friends with the people she works with. She’s done with drinking on their night off. She can’t afford any more bruises. Ashley says, same. During the night, a storm happens. Kelsie asks if Gary is ready for the day, and he says, no, but at least it was clean rain. Provisions come in, and in Gary’s interview, he says, now that Tom is gone, he and Kelsie have been sleeping a fraction of the time they should. He thinks if they tie the fenders to the dock, it’s a win-win situation. Glenn likes it, and I assume they must have a designated parking spot if they can do that. Glenn tells Gary that the storm brought swell, and it’s going to be rough. He’s going to use the sail to stabilize the boat. The guests are almost there, and Glen tells the crew that they’ll be rolling for an hour, but it will get better throughout the day. Gabriella spills an entire tray of filled champagne glasses, champagne and glass going everywhere. Gary jumps in to help, and Glenn tells Kelsie to get the hose ready. In Gabriela’s interview, she says, nailing it.

Glenn welcomes primary Dawn and guests to Menorca, and everyone makes introductions. He says, they have a great trip planned, and hands them over to Daisy for the tour. Daisy thinks the charter has a good vibe. There are large swells that make everyone feel a little seasick, and Glenn tells them, get ready to sail. The sails go up, the boat leans, everything slides, and Kelsie gets wrapped up in a cushion, but the guests are loving it. Glenn says, a runner stopped working, and tells Gary, they have an issue with the starboard runner. Gary calls Kelsie, and Glenn tells the guests, it’s a bit lumpy, but they should be able to get out of the roly sea. Gary says he’ll have to take everything out of the lockers, and things start falling out of cabinets, and doors slam.  

An unlocked glass sliding door starts banging open and shut. Gary radios Colin, who runs to the door, saying, it’s going to break. He tries to hold it, and Gary runs to the door on the other side, getting his finger slammed in it for his trouble. He says the mother f-word several times, as well as, it hurts, and goes in his cabin,

Next time, Daisy and Gabriela talk; Gabriela doesn’t think she’ll last four more charters; Daisy says it’s frustrating when she and the captain aren’t on the same page; and lots of stuff slides around.

🦁 The Lion Sleeps Tonight…

Journey with me tomorrow to the lands of soap and New Jersey. Until then, stay safe, stay accepting the differences in others, and stay not letting double standards be what you do.

April 10, 2022 – The Commonwealth Takes It All, About That Place, Latest Dead, Fear’s Here, a Wedding & Vacation

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What I Watched Today

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

The Walking Dead

Mid-season finale.

A cluster of zombies make a lot of noise. Lance steps in zombie goo, ruining his Pierre Cardin shoes.

19 HOURS AND ONE ACT OF GOD AGO. Maggie leaves Hilltop with Herschel, Elijah, and Marco. She asks if Herschel has everything, and he says he’s not a baby anymore. He doesn’t want to go. Maggie tells him, it’s only temporary, and he says he wants to help. She says she knows, but not this time. She asks, how far? and Elijah says, four miles south. They can get there before dark. Maggie tells Herschel, they’ll be back before he knows it. She takes his hand, and they all walk into the woods.

Lance flips his coin, and tells a trooper to call it. The trooper says, tails, and Lance says, over there, pointing to one of a few groups of soldiers. The trooper asks if they’re going to be given an assignment, and Lance says, you’ll know soon enough.

Max is sitting on the bed reading, when Eugene wakes up. She says she thought he was still asleep, and he says he was. He thought they had a lovely night, and she says, they did. He asks what she’s reading, and she says, stuff on physics. He says, just so she knows, she’s the most remarkable human he’s ever met; beautiful in every way. She thanks him, and kisses him. She says she has to get ready for work, and he asks if she has any hesitation about what he asked her to do. She says, no. She said she’d do it. It’s just… He says, she can tell him, and she says she can’t stop thinking about what happens after. This place pushes everyone to keep it the same, and she’s worried it’s going to push them until they all break.

Daryl breaks down a door, and goes into a house with Gabriel, Aaron, and some troopers. Away from the others, Aaron says, they’re not splitting up, and Gabriel says, they’ll get through and get home. Aaron says, they’re in this until it’s over, and Daryl says, when they get a break, they’ll take it, and head north. A trooper finds them, and asks what all the chit-chat is. Daryl says, they need a break, and Gabriel says, there’s a rumor that a place in Charleston is trading weapons. He asks if they’ve checked there, when zombies suddenly start busting in from the next room. One clings on the trooper, who freaks out. Daryl pokes it through the head, and the trooper smashes it to a pulp, because it’s easy once they’re deactivated. Lance radios, asking where they are, and the trooper tells Lance that they’re 13 miles past the last outpost. They have one more location to clear. He tells the others, let’s move. Gabriel says, Lance is checking on them. They need to watch their backs. Daryl agrees.

Maggie and Herschel walk through the woods, followed by Elijah and Marco. She tells them, sounds like it’s getting closer, and Eli says, it is. Herschel is worried about Maggie, but she tells him that she’s okay. He says, no, she’s not, and she bends down so she can look him in the eye. She says, everything she’s done, and still does, is so they have choices. He might not like the place they’re going to, but she promises it’s the right choice… for now. Lydia meets them with some others, and they follow her.

At the camp, Leah suits up for battle like Mrs. Peel from The Avengers, all in black, leather, and weapons. Lance says, it’s exciting, doesn’t she think? Things are coming together. She’ll get the scalp of the woman who killed her family, and he gets to do his job without interference. Everybody wins. Well… not everybody. The cicadas get crazy loud in the trees, and Lance says, he’ll need to see it when she’s dead, giving Leah a radio. Leah says, when she’s dead, he will, and Lance tells the troopers to come. He smiles.

Lydia leads the others to a tangle of branches on the ground, and signal knocks in the middle of it with a stick. She pulls on one of the branches, and says, this thing is stuck. Elijah helps her, and they open a trap door. Inside are Negan, Annie, and what’s left of the Warlord group. They come out of the hidey hole.

Annie asks if Maggie is sure Lance is coming, and Maggie says she spotted him outside the walls. Negan tells her, they’re grateful for her help. He has no problem watching the kid, but Annie is pregnant. There’s no way he’s going to sit in that Whisperer wormhole so they can save that sh*thole of a home that’s not worth saving. Annie protests, but Maggie says, he’s right. Maybe the place isn’t worth saving, but the people are. She started the fight with Lance, and it won’t end until she ends it. Negan has no doubt she will, but also has no doubt that a-hole Lance has her firmly in his crosshairs, so he’s coming with her. Maggie says she’ll finish it, and Annie says she can help, but Maggie says Annie needs to stay with Herschel and the others; keep them safe until it’s over. Negan says, Herschel doesn’t exactly trust him, but Maggie says, she’s starting to. He saved Herschel at Riverbend, and whatever else happens, and whatever has happened, she’ll never forget that. Negan says, wow. She has big balls. He’s got her and her boy. Maggie tells Annie, when she feels it’s time… Anne says, he’ll be waiting when she gets back; she promises. The cicadas get vocal again, and Negan says, oh sh*t. If that ain’t a sign from the man upstairs. The cicadas form a cloud above the trees.

Over the radio, Lance asks if the troopers have secured the location. Head trooper Romano says, they’re cleaning it, and Lance tells him, finish and head back. Romano copies, and tells Daryl, one last sweep, then home. Daryl says he’ll lead, and they walk out to a clearing, and into an old parking lot full of rusted out cars and buses. Daryl, Gabriel, and Aaron separate from the troopers, and start shooting at them. The troopers shoot back, and Gabriel gets hit. Aaron gets hit in his bad arm, which is really his good arm, since it has a mace for a hand. Daryl hits a trooper with the butt of his gun, grabs another gun, and backs around a bus. Gabriel grabs Romano and kicks his ass but good. He shoots more troopers, and is a surprisingly good shot. Zombies start coming, and everyone shoots at them. You have to pick your battles.

Romano is crawling away, when Daryl comes around the corner, followed by Aaron and Gabriel. Gabriel puts a tourniquet on Aaron’s arm, and Daryl stops Romano with his foot. He flips Romano over, and asks, where’s Lance? Romano says, screw you, and sees zombies coming from out of the woods. Daryl says, his choice, and Romano says, maybe ten miles out. He said he wanted to clear the field. Daryl shoots him, and Gabriel says, clear the field means leave only allies behind. Daryl says, Maggie, and Lance radios Romano, but Daryl picks up and says, he ain’t here anymore. Lance tells his troopers, move now. Daryl, Aaron, and Gabriel head out.

In her office, Pamela reads from what’s probably a speech. When this world fell, they gathered the scattered pieces. It wasn’t easy. They faltered, but found a reason to live when everything outside the walls was dead. Max is sitting at her desk, and Pamela asks if she’s okay; she seems far away. Max says, she’s good; she’s right here. Pamela says, if Max is having a bad day, Max can tell her. It’s hard always having to be strong and not showing emotion. Max says she’s really okay, but before she forgets, the Founders Day budget has a $50k surplus. She’d like to suggest something if Pamela is open to it – a scholarship fund for less fortunate families. She’s made up a proposal. Pamela says she loves Max’s out-of-the-box thinking, but anything extra has to be put back into the event; it’s their biggest day of the year. Max says she understands, and tells Pamela not to forget her 5 o’clock dinner. Pamela says she doesn’t know what she’d do without Max, and asks if she’s coming. Max says she’ll be right behind Pamela, and Pamela leaves. Max goes to work, looking through the files.

Maggie and her group take out their weapons.

Max goes through the files, pulling some out. While she’s looking at the papers in one of them, Sebastian startles her. He apologizes, and she asks if there’s something she can help him with. He asks if his mom is pissed at him. He keeps asking, but gets nothing. Max says, it’s been a hectic afternoon, and he says he needs to talk with his mother. She says, Pamela is at a work dinner, but she can get word to her. Sebastian says, why doesn’t Max get word to her. Her only child. It’s such bullsh*t. Max says she’s sorry, but she was on her way out, and he says she never stops working. She even takes work home. Max drops some of the files, and Sebastian moves to help her, but she scoops them up quickly. She tells him that she’s clumsy after too much coffee, and he says, the poor man’s drug. He leaves, and she puts the files under her coat.

The cicadas get wildly loud, and Leah goes into a house with her men. They look around, going to a closed door, and the house explodes. In the woods, Maggie says, they’ll see if they can recover any weapons, follow their trail back to the camp, and end it.  A shot rings out, and Marco falls to the ground. Leah comes out of the still burning house, and they run. Poor Marco. Leah follows, slow and steady like Michael Myers.

LOUD CICADAS. Lance looks pissed as the troopers go through the bombed out house. Outside, he steps in zombie goo. He asks, how many? and a trooper says, three. Leah radios, and Lance asks, what was that? She says she drew them out. She’s doing it her way. He says, his men were killed, and she says, collateral damage. A trooper tells Lance that he’s got the others fanned out. They’ll find them. Lance says, they goddam better.

Walking through the woods, Gabriel says, the troopers must be close. They’ve got walkers too. Daryl sees spikes in a tree, and Gabriel says, they set traps for them, but Daryl says, those ain’t for them. They come to the camp, and Aaron looks through whatever stuff is left. Daryl sees a piece of materiel on a tree, and says, Leah. He thinks they should split up; they’ll cover more ground. Lydia and Elijah fight off a zombie, and Elijah asks Maggie if she’s sure it was Leah. Maggie says, yes, and tells them to go. She’ll lead the others away. She won’t risk them. Lydia says, when it’s safe, they’ll meet up with the others, but Maggie tells them to go.  

Maggie is alone, and Leah walks through the woods, gun drawn.

Back at the Commonwealth, Kelly signs, and Connie says, Tyler Davis, and the woman Rosita tried to help were on the list. She counted 200 more. Max looks at one of the papers, and says, it looks like codes or coordinates. Magna says, if they’re hiding it, maybe Connie should write about that, but Connie says, not yet. She needs proof. For something this big, they need the key to crack the code. Until they have that, she’ll have to write about Sebastian’s heist, and hang it around Pamela’s neck. Kelly says, when the people find out Pamela’s not on their side, they’re going to question everything. There’s a knock at the door, startling everyone, and Magna says she thought they could use some help. She told him to come. Ezekiel says he’s sorry he’s late, and Magna says, they needed more people. Ezekiel says he has a whole network ready and willing to ride at dawn. Connie says, we’re doing this? and Max says, let’s ride.

Daryl goes through the woods.

In Maggie’s part of the woods, the zombies make noise, competing with the cicadas. Then it gets quiet. A zombie comes out, and Maggie unsheathes her knife, waiting until it’s right up on her before stabbing it in the head. She sheaths the knife again, and continues on. (The closed captions say, dramatic chord strike – hahaha!) Maggie shoots at Leah, who dodges around the trees. Maggie gets off a couple more shots, and moves slowly forward. Leah gets a bullet in the leg, but still comes up behind Maggie.

Maggie opens her eyes, and she’s tied to a chair, Leah sitting across from her with a gun. Leah says she’s waited for this moment a long time, and Maggie says she knows what Leah wants. She wanted it herself for a long time. Leah can’t kill her; it’s too easy. If Leah had wanted to do that, she’d have done it. She wants Maggie to suffer; to feel everything she felt, all the pain, Somewhere inside, Leah thinks it will take her pain away, but it won’t. Leah says, Maggie is wrong. She doesn’t just want to hurt Maggie. By the time she’s done, everyone Maggie loves will be dead.

In the woods, Lance finds a piece of cloth left by Leah. They keep going.

Maggie guesses that would make her and Leah even. Leah could take her family the way she took Leah’s. Leah says, it’s nature’s way of taking care of things. Maggie says, it’s not nature or fate; it’s us. Maggie killed Leah’s people. That’s what she wanted. This is what Leah wants. Leah draws her gun, and Maggie says, go ahead. She wants to do it. Go on. Leah hesitates, and as Maggie is talking, she’s getting out of the bonds on her wrists. She jumps up, and hits Leah. They struggle over the gun, and Maggie knocks it out of Leah’s hand, and whacks her a few times, but then Leah gets Maggie down. Maggie bounces back up, but Leah slices her in the leg. They throw each other around like a scene from Kill Bill, and Leah gets Maggie down again, punching the sh*t out of her. She starts to strangle Maggie, and there’s a gunshot. Leah falls on top Maggie, and Daryl is there. Woot!

Lance is lurking outside with the troopers, and Daryl shoots at him, grazing his face. Daryl grabs Maggie, and they run. An angry Lance stomps into the house, sees Leah dead, and notices the open window Daryl and Maggie jetted from. He says, now we take it all.

Maggie and Daryl walk through a field, meeting Gabriel and Aaron. Another day at the office. Negan gets everyone aboveground. Max puts the files back, and sits at her desk. Pamela comes in, and tosses the newspaper on Max’s desk. The headline reads: Pamela Milton is Lying to You.

The Welcome to Alexandria sign is draped over by a Commonwealth flag. A trooper closes the gate. The people inside are rounded up, and Lance fingers his coin, then flips it.

Next time, the fight to the finish; the final chapter. Mercer says it’s his job to protect the people, but Negan says he was sent here anyway. 

👍🏻 Final Flip…

What’s happening with the Commonwealth.

https://ew.com/tv/walking-dead-midseason-finale-acts-of-god-angela-kang/

And does it coordinate with the CRM?

https://screenrant.com/walking-dead-commonwealth-crm-name-list-coordinates/

🌊 Under Water Dead…

This actually looks pretty good. And I did like Das Boot.

https://bleedingcool.com/tv/dead-in-the-water-amc-releases-fear-the-walking-dead-spinoff-trailer/

https://comicbook.com/tv-shows/news/how-to-watch-dead-in-the-water-a-fear-the-walking-dead-story-amc-plus/

🐣 In Your Easter Basket…

No break this time around. FWD is back April 17th.

👰🏼 Spicing Down the Aisle…

I’ve always been impressed with his parents’ marriage, and wish him well. They’re a beautiful couple.

https://www.eonline.com/news/1325731/brooklyn-beckham-marries-nicola-peltz-in-star-studded-ceremony

🍭 Sweet Dreams…

Meet me here tomorrow for some soap and some Sailing. Until then, stay safe, stay gracious, and stay knowing that making things even won’t take the pain away.

April 8, 2022 – The Ice Princess Is Found, Soap History, Co-Star Chat, Jill Whines, Teresazilla, Joining In, Unsure, Caroline In Dubai, Shah Bummer, Pets (!), a Heptad Of Quotes & Anything

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Jennifer says she guesses she’ll have to dry herself off, as Valentin fiddles with the safe one more time. She says she’s going to slip into something he can easily slip her out of. He finally gets it open and she asks if they should order champagne. He says, voila! Absolutement. Champagne is a necessity; he’s parched. She says she can quench his thirst, and comes out  She asks what he thinks he’s doing, and he says he dropped this, showing her his phone. She says, he seems flustered, but he says he doesn’t want her thinking he cannot handle delicate objects. She says, what if she has her doubts, and he says, then he would prove her wrong, and kisses her.

Anna is at the tiki bar, when Felicia comes along, and asks if she’s seen anything of note. Anna says, Felicia looks like she just stepped out of The Real Housewives of Port Charles, and Felicia says, can Anna believe they wanted her for that show? Anna says, it’s not too late to call the producer. She can step in for Felicia at the auction. Felicia says, they’ve been over this. There are bound to be a few ex-spies here, bidding for the Ice Princess and providing security. Anna is too recognizable. Anna says, and Felicia’s not, and Felicia says, Luke was her friend, and don’t forget, she’s descended from royalty. Anna says, a shame she couldn’t wear some of that Aztec jewelry, but Felicia says, don’t worry. She can still convince people that she has the funds to bid on the Ice Princess. Anna says, they’ll play it Felicia’s way; she’ll just sit on the sidelines. She hopes this whole black market thing pans out, and they find Luke’s killer. She really wants to prove Victor’s behind all this.

Harmony looks at the text on her phone: It’s Brendon. We meet or next I call your daughter. Willow asks if something is wrong, but Harmony says, no, nothing. Willow says, she’s looking at the text like she’s seen a ghost, and Harmony says, she thought she’d blocked it already. There; deleted. Harmony’s phone dings again, and Willow asks if it’s the same person. It’s another text from Brandon: I think Willow may be very interested in what I have to say. Then I call her real mother.

On the phone, Nina tells Scotty, about dinner. She wanted to run some things by him regarding the petition for visitation with Wiley. She wants to do it before Britt and Aunt Liesl get back. He says, no can do. He has to run a few errands for her case. She says, what errands? and he walks into Pozzulo’s. He says he has to get his ducks in a row. Goodbye.

Marshall says, he takes it Trina and her friend are still on good terms, and she says, absolutely. Joss has her back. Portia comes in yelling that she said, no comment. And get off her property or she’ll have them arrested for trespassing. We hear the click of cameras, but I wonder, do cameras still make that sound in 2022? She sees Marshall and Trina, and says, that looks good. Did Trina make Marshall one of those mango smoothies she loves? Trina asks if the reporters are still out there, but Portia says, they’re leaving; don’t even give it a second thought. Is Curtis upstairs with Aunt Stella? Marshall says, Stella is sleeping. Curtis took off for The Savoy. Portia says, really? After everything that just happened to Aunt Stella, it must be something big for him to leave now.

N’neka says, they’re all set; how about Curtis? Curtis is staring off into space, and she asks if he’s okay. He says, it’s just been a long day, when Selena walks in and says, the day’s almost over, and the night is rife with opportunity.

Valentin says, my love, the champagne, and Jennifer says, they don’t need champagne. He says, she’s speaking to a Frenchman. There will always be a need for champagne. It will make their moment together so much sweeter. She says she doesn’t like to wait, and he says, all good things come to those who wait, and makes a call.

Felicia says, while Anna was scoping out the hotel, she was observing the clientele. Anna asks if she found anything, and Felicia says, that bartender, Kai, said there were some potential buyers on site. He overheard this dark-haired woman talking about the auction. Apparently, she was so engrossed in her phone call, she didn’t even know he was listening. Anna asks if he got a name, but Felicia says, negative, but he did see her getting friendly with a mustachioed Frenchman. Anna laughs, and says, okay. She sees a man walking nearby, says, oh bloody hell, and ducks. Felicia says, what? and Anna says she knows that man.

Harmony puts her phone in her bag, and tells Willow, it’s Spring Ridge, and they want to change her schedule, so she needs to call them, but she and Willow will talk later. They hug, and Harmony says she loves Willow so much, and jets. Michael passes her coming in, and asks Willow, what’s that about? Willow tells him, Harmony said it was work, but she hopes everything is okay. She gets the feeling there’s something her mother isn’t telling her.

In the elevator, Harmony’s phone rings, and she answers, saying, stop calling. Stop texting. She’ll meet him. Just tell her where and when.

Marshall thanks Trina for the smoothie and the conversation. It’s been great getting to know her. She says, him too, and tells him to have a good night. She goes over to the fireplace, and Marshall tells Portia, on second thought, he’d like to hang out here a little longer. In case Curtis comes back. If it’s all right with her. She says, of course (🍷). He’s more than welcome. She’s going to check on Stella. She goes upstairs, and Marshall says he’s sure glad Stella’s okay. Trina says, her too. She’s glad it wasn’t another stroke or something. He says, thankfully it wasn’t anything more serious, and she asks if he’s ever had a panic attack. He says, yeah. It’s scary in the moment, but it’s no big deal. Trina says, Stella must be feeling so much stress, and having reporters around can’t be good for her. He says, she doesn’t think she had anything to do with Stella’s panic attack, does she?

Scotty says he comes in peace, and Sonny says, Frank, holding up his hand. Frank heads for the door, and Scotty suggests he go do some squats. Sonny says, well, this is an unwelcome surprise. What can he do for Scotty? Scotty says he thought he’d do Sonny a favor, since he pulled the rug out from under Sonny in Pennsylvania at Nina’s hearing. Sonny says he hasn’t forgot that, and Scotty says, she’s filed a petition with the court for visitation with Wiley. Sonny says, Nina already told him; is that it? Scotty says, no. He’s going to call Sonny as a character reference for Nina.

N’neka tells Selena, sorry, they’re not open just yet, but Curtis says, it’s okay. He’s got this covered. In fact, he’s expecting a delivery any minute. Can N’neka meet them out back? N’neka says, yeah, and leaves. Selena says she was glad to hear Curtis wanted to revisit her proposition. Just so they’re clear on the terms, he provides her with the use of his back room for a high stakes poker game twice a month; she provides her players with a credible venue; and he avails himself of their lucrative connections – all above board. Curtis says, so she claims, and she says, she’s not naïve, and since he expressed his disinterest, if he’s reconsidering now, his circumstances must have changed. That’s his business, and is of no concern to her. She’s only interested in finalizing their transaction. So what does he want from her?

Anna asks if Felicia sees the man in the reddish tropical shirt; a WSB agent. Felicia looks behind herself with a mirror, and says she didn’t know Anna called for WSB back-up. Anna says she didn’t, and Felicia wonders what he’s doing here. Anna says she’ll find out. Hang tight. She goes over to the guy and says, Leeman. What’s he doing in this neck of the woods? He says he could ask the same of her, and she says she’s running a sting. Trying to flush out the parties to the auction of the Ice Princess. Leeman says he’s there because they got a tip about the Ice Princess, and the auction isn’t happening because they know who stole it, and where it is. She asks to tag along, saying, he’d really be helping her out. He hesitates, and she says, okay, it will only take her two phone calls to get clearance. Does he want to be the cause of unnecessary delay and bureaucratic red tape? He says, all right. Is she armed? She says, yeah.

Harmony meets Brendon at Pier 54, since Pier 55 fell into the river because of the traffic being too heavy, and he says, Harmony Miller. He thought he recognized her name. After he met her at Alexis Davis’s office last night, he went back to his room, and sure enough, he was right. She was one of his late brother’s patients. One of the inmates Neil counseled. He’s seen her file. She says, he had no right reading it, but he says he couldn’t help himself. It was full of all kinds of interesting information about her and her daughter Willow Tate.

Willow says she’s glad her mother showed up, so Michael and Smoltz could talk alone. She would have been so nervous. How’d it go? Michael says, he took the deal. He’ll drop the charges in exchange for a five-part feature article series on Nina. Willow wishes it didn’t have to come to this, and he says, him too, but it did. They’ve been more than fair with Nina, and every single time, she’s taken advantage. Willow agrees, and says, she tried to convince herself that Nina was acting out of love, but she’s crossed the line so many times. In the end, it’s their job to protect their son. Who knows? Maybe Nina will back off when the feature is published. He says, that’s the goal. The series might prove useful in more ways than one. It will damage Nina’s image, but it might neutralize some of the tricks Nina and her lawyer might try to pull at the hearing.

Marshall says, Stella’s panic attack wasn’t Trina’s fault. He knows for a fact her mom and Curtis are happy to have her out of that jail and back home. Nobody wants her punished for something she didn’t do. She says she knows that, but she doesn’t want to punish them either. The more this goes on, the more it affects the people she cares about. She wonders if it’s not too late to plead guilty.

Curtis tells Selena, his motives are his own. This is a one-time transaction. She says he misunderstands. Let her be clear. She’s offering a business opportunity that’s mutually beneficial. Rest assured, he’ll profit from this arrangement. As a gesture of good faith, here’s the down payment – she puts two rolls of bills on the table – to make use of his premises. He tells her, as he said, it’s not money he’s after, and she says, what then? He says he needs to acquire information he has no access to, and perhaps she does. She asks, what is this information? and he says, a Witness Protection file, along with sealed arrest records attached to it. She says, the subject being? and he says, Marshall Ashford. She says she’ll do her best. Then we have a deal? She holds out her hand.

Valentin gives Jennifer a glass of champagne, and says, pour vous. He babbles something in French, and she says, damn. Why didn’t she work harder to learn French? He says he can teach her a few key phrases, and she says, that would be nice, moving closer to him. There’s a knock at the door, and he says, what is this? She says, probably just some drunk guests; ignore them. The knock continues, and Anna says, WSB. Open up.

Harmony tells Brendon, leave Willow out of this. Stay the hell away from her daughter. He says, she means, Nina Reeves’s daughter.

Jennifer says, she’ll get rid of them. She hasn’t done anything. She opens the door, and sees Anna, Leeman, and a couple of other guys. She asks, what is the meaning of this? and Anna says, Jennifer Smith? She asks Leeman if this is her, and he says, right where intel told them she’d be. They start to walk in, and Jennifer says, they’ve got the wrong person. They can double-check their intel. They walk past her, and she asks what they’re doing. She’s entertaining a friend. She looks around, but Valentin is gone, and she says, he was just here. Where did he go? Anna says, it would appear her friend had to leave. We see Valentin outside on the patio, and Anna says, perhaps he’s allergic to the Bureau. It’s been known to happen. Valentin walks off, and Jennifer says, now that they’ve ruined her afternoon, what do they want? Leeman says, they have evidence tying her to stolen property, and the murder of Luke Spencer. Jennifer says, that’s outrageous. Luke was her ex-husband; she loved him. Leeman tells the hotel manager to open the safe, and Jennifer says, they can’t do that. They can’t barge in here and search. He opens it, and Anna takes out Valentin’s velvet pouch. Jennifer says she’s never seen that before. She has no idea how it got in there. Anna takes out the Ice Princess, and says she supposes Jennifer’s never seen this before either. Does she recognize it? The legendary Ice Princess.

Sonny asks, what makes Scotty think he’d agree to be his character witness? and Scotty says, he’s not really asking Sonny; he’s going to subpoena him. He needs all the character witnesses he can get for Nina. Since Sonny already testified for Nina in Pennsylvania, and did such a good job, thanks to him, Scotty was able to get Nina off the hook. So he thought they might go two for two. Sonny says, Scotty asked him questions, he was under oath, and he answered truthfully. Scotty says, because Sonny is such a law abiding citizen. He can’t complain because it all did work out in Nina’s favor. He understands things are getting complicated with Sonny and Nina’s second go-around, and Sonny says, his life is his business. Scotty can go now. Scotty says, hold on a second, because no matter how this turns out, Sonny loses.

Michael says, they have to anticipate and be ready to defend anything Nina and her counsel throw against them, and Willow says, at least they don’t have Michael’s assault charge to worry about anymore. Michael says, yeah, but Nina could drag in their parents, and taint them by association. Diane assured him that’s not an argument Nina could make, but he has enough experience with the legal system to know, you have to expect the unexpected. They have to be ready. She says, and it can get ugly, and he says, absolutely. By Nina attacking their parents, she could assert that she has as much legal right to be in his life as they do. She could paint herself as a better influence. His dad would be an obvious target, but since he’s probably siding with Nina, they won’t be after him. She says she’s sorry, and he says, him too, but his dad made his choice. He can’t waste energy thinking about it. Unfortunately, her mom is probably going to be a likely target; Nina could bring up her criminal past. Willow says, they could counter with how she’s worked hard to rehabilitate her life, and he says, they could also cite that Harmony got to know Wiley gradually over time. She didn’t overwhelm him, or take control the way Nina did. Willow’s mother is the model of how to build a respectful relationship with Wiley, which Nina hasn’t shown the ability to do. She says, wow. Their relationship with her mother might actually work in their favor.

Harmony says, her medical files are confidential, and protected by HIPPA law. She could have Brendon brought up on criminal charges. He says, it’s interesting that she brought that up. His brother took notes about the crimes she confessed to during their sessions. He kept Harmony’s file in a lockbox, probably wondering whether he should turn her into the cops. When Neil died, he inherited that lockbox. He had no idea he’d find incriminating information. Such as, her daughter Willow isn’t actually her daughter. Harmony stole her.

Trina tells Marshall, they offered her a deal; plead guilty to the misdemeanor charge, and probably avoid jail time, but that’s not guaranteed. He says, but she didn’t take it, and she says, because she didn’t do anything wrong. It was a set-up, but how does she convince the jury that she didn’t do that, when Spencer didn’t believe her, and he knows her? At least she thought he did. Marshall says, forget him. That boy’s not worth her time. She has to focus on what’s best for her now. She asks if it isn’t selfish. She’s seen what it’s costing everyone. Her mom and Curtis should be enjoying their new home and their new life, not dealing with all of this. And then there’s Joss and Cam. She knows they’ll defend her, but that brings the spotlight back on them; it brings the spotlight back on the sex tape. How can she do that to them? If she pleads guilty, this is all over. Isn’t that worth it for the people she loves?

Curtis tells Selena that their deal isn’t done. He has a few more terms. She says, so the negotiation continues? and he says, two games a month is too much. She says, how about one monthly game to start? but he says he’s afraid any set schedule will bring too much attention. She says, she can have the games on an as needed basis. She’ll call him with a week’s notice, and he’ll make his club available to her. He says, providing there’s no booking conflicts, and he’ll need her to provide the costs for additional security, as well as some assurances that her players will be discreet. There will be no guns and no drugs in his club. She says, these are all reasonable requests. He has her word. He asks if her word is enough, and she says, have a little faith. He says, none of this will work if he ends up in a battle with Sonny Corinthos, but she says she’s done her due diligence with the necessary parties. She’ll begin arrangements for the first game. He says, no, and she says, more? She’s been more than fair. He says his last term is non-negotiable. There will be no games unless he gets the information he’s asking for. She says, then they have a deal. They shake hands as Nina walks in.

Selena says, it’s good to see Nina again, and Nina says, likewise. It seems like she’s always interrupting them. Selena says, they were just discussing a private party, and Nina says, that’s fun. What’s the occasion? Selena says, a family reunion, and tells Curtis that he has his down payment. She’ll be in touch. She leaves, and Nina says, Selena doesn’t strike her as a family reunion kinda gal. Curtis says, if the woman wants to host a party, it’s her business, especially if she’s paying top dollar. He picks up the wads of cash, and she says, my God. Didn’t he tell her that Miss Wu was trouble? He mumbles, did he say that? and she asks, why change his mind about people in that line of business at The Savoy? This is fishy. He says, don’t, but she says she knows him, and she knows when he’s in trouble. He’s always been there when she needed help. Let her be there for him.

Marshall tells Trina that he thinks he can relate. He found himself in a situation that would bring trouble on his wife and sons. It’s not comparable to what she’s facing; she’s innocent. But he found himself grappling with a similar situation. Ultimately, he chose to take himself out of the equation, for his family’s sake. She tells him, he’d said it had caused them pain anyway, and he says, it did. But it would have caused more pain if he’d stayed too. He had to make a choice, so he asked himself a question. He said, self, which would bring the least amount of harm their way? She asks if he thinks he caused his family less harm, and he laughs and says, who knows? We can never be certain. For a long time, he didn’t even know what harm it caused him. But now that he’s back, he sees what it cost them now back see what cost them, and it cost them too much.

Jennifer says she was here to bid on the diamond, and Anna asks if she’s aware it was stolen from Luke Spencer. Jenifer says, no, and you never know with Luke; he might have sold it. Anna says, it’s unlikely though. Did Jennifer steal it? So she could get his attention. So he’d track her down and she could orchestrate a reunion. And when that didn’t work, did she kill him? Jennifer says she could never kill Luke. She swears, this wasn’t her. She’s never seen that… That man, he was in the French navy. His name was Françoise Olivier. He was standing in front of armoire when she came out of the shower. He must have put the Ice Princess in the safe. Anna says, that’s very convenient though, isn’t it? Jennifer tells Anna that she’s not saying another word until she speaks with a lawyer. She makes a locking-my-lips gesture, and Leeman says, cuff her. Random WSB guy puts the cuffs on her, and she says, she’s innocent, she swears. They’ve got the wrong person. She swears she didn’t do anything. Anna says, this is he Bureau’s jurisdiction; nevertheless she advises Jennifer to remain silent. Leeman says, get her out of here, and Jennifer says she swears she didn’t do anything. Anna tells Leeman, one more thing…

Valentin asks Kai, when is the boat to the main island? but before Kai can answer, he takes off. Felicia comes by.

Leeman tells Anna, they received information that connects Jennifer Smith to Kurt Markovich, the cable car inspector who orchestrated the accident that killed Luke Spencer. Once they found the Ice Princess in Jennifer’s possession, the motive is self-explanatory. She took the diamond, and killed him to stop him from taking it back. Case closed. They have their killer and their thief.  

Felicia says, you know the man you just met? and Kai says, that’s the French naval officer he was telling her about. Felicia sees the agents taking Jennifer away, and she tells Kai, that’s Jennifer Smith. Is that the woman he saw with the French naval officer? He says, yes. She’s the woman who was talking about the auction. She says, the officer left? and Kai says, he was talking about the next boat to the main island. Then he just took off.

Willow says, they haven’t talked about Michael’s mom. Does he think Nina will try to smear Carly? He says, Nina still thinks his mom is somehow involved in Nelle’s death, but the investigation cleared his mom of any wrong-doing. Besides, should Nina bring up that issue, it will leave her wide open for them to bring up that Nina retaliated against his mother by keeping his father away from his family. So, even though a judge didn’t think it was a crime, they’ll see what a family court judge has to say about it. Willow says, and whether Nina’s behavior makes it appropriate for her to be around a child. He says, and this might not come up in court, but Smoltz’s article will have run by then. And after that, he doesn’t think anyone will think Nina should be allowed in Wiley’s life. All this experience he has, and he really doesn’t know how court works.

Harmony tells Brendon, she didn’t steal her daughter. If he read her file, he knows she was given to Harmony. He says, by Madeline Reeves. He read the whole sordid story. His brother Neil recorded every detail. How she struggled to make ends meet as a health aid for the city, where she was fortunate enough to meet Madeline, Willow’s grandmother. Harmony says, she was so young, but he says, not so young she couldn’t tell the difference between right and wrong. Nina Reeves was pregnant and in a coma. She couldn’t consent to an adoption. Madeline was a greedy woman, who needed to get rid of any potential heirs to Nina’s fortune. But there wasn’t just one baby, there were two; twins. One little girl went to a black market adoption, and the other little girl went to her. It’s time to pay up, or the truth will come out.

Curtis says he loves Nina and appreciates her, and if he needs her help, he’ll let her know. He pulls out a chair, and asks why she came to see him. They sit down, and Nina says she doesn’t like it, but she needs a character reference, because she’s filing a petition with the courts for visitation rights with Wiley. He says, that’s a big step, and she says she did everything in her power to try to avoid this, but she kept hitting walls with Willow and Michael at every turn. Wiley is getting older, and she can’t keep waiting for things to get better, when clearly that’s not happening. He says he gets it, but she’s going to be going up against Sonny’s son. She says, Sonny knows where she’s coming from, better than most people, and he says, it sounds like they’ve gotten close. She says, it’s not about that; she’s torn up to put Sonny in this position. He says, sometimes they have to make the tough decision about who to put first. She says, so he’ll be her character reference? and he says, she can count on it. He’s glad to help a friend. She thanks him, and says, likewise. She knows he and Portia are going through it right now. How’s Trina? He says, hanging in. It’s hard, but Portia is really a wreck. The whole situation brought home how much they’ve become a part of his life. So he totally understands why she’s fighting so hard for Wiley. Because people like them will go to any lengths for the people they care about.

Harmony asks why Brendon is just coming to her now, and he says, because he didn’t know what he had. He went through Neil’s lockbox looking for bank statements, stock and bonds, cash. It wasn’t until he met her that he put it together, and realized how valuable that file was. Harmony laughs, and says, if he’s looking for a shakedown, he’s got the wrong woman. She’s one step away from living in her car, and looking for a second job on top of her first. He says, lucky for her, her dear friend Alexis has money, and her stolen daughter Willow is the mother of a Quartermaine heir. He’s not asking her for money, but he wonders how much Nina would pay for this information. She says, he’s not taking this to anyone. He’ll open himself up to blackmail charges and accessing private medical records. He asks if she really wants to take that chance, and she says she’s survived worse men than him. She’s not afraid of him or his threats. He says, she should be, because unlike her, he has nothing to lose. Get his money or he blows up her world. He starts to leave, and says, oh, and he doesn’t bluff.

Sonny says if Scotty’s got something to say, say it or get out, and Scotty says, the way he sees it, Sonny has two choices. Save Nina or Michael. Either he betrays his son, or throws Nina under the bus, Now, a lot of people are saying he’s a changed man. Scotty’s money is still on the old Sonny, who’s only looking out for number one, and Nina will just be collateral damage. Sonny asks if that’s what Scotty thinks of him, and Scotty says he thinks Nina will too. She’ll wise up and realize she’s better off without him, and Nina’s aunt, his girlfriend Liesl, will see Scotty as a hero. And poor Nina will just be another girl in Sonny’s path of destruction. Sonny says he underestimated Scotty.

Anna meets Felicia at the bar, and Felicia asks, what just happened? The Bureau just took Jennifer Smith away in custody. Anna says, she knows. She had the Ice Princess in a safe in her room, and Leeman can connect her to Kurt Markovich, the cable car inspector who, in part, orchestrated Luke’s death. They think she’s to blame for all of this. Felicia says, but Anna’s not convinced, and Anna says, is Felicia? Felicia says, no, and she’ll tell Anna why. They go to a table, and Felicia says, after Luke’s memorial service, Jennifer told them she was harboring feelings for Luke. Anna says, she reiterated that over and over again in the room. It could be a cover, but it seemed kind of real to her. Felicia tells her, Kai said he overheard Jennifer talking about the auction. Why stick around if she had the diamond? Anna says, Jennifer claimed she was with a French navy captain, and claimed he’s the one who put the diamond in the safe. It seems to Anna that maybe they were romantically involved, or maybe they were working together, and he double-crossed her or stood her up. Felicia says, Kai saw guy the before they brought Jennifer through. He was asking about a boat. Maybe they’re not working together at all. She asks what Anna is thinking, and Anna says, the whole thing is just too tidy. There’s definitely more going on than meets the eye.

Felicia asks why the Bureau would accept it at face value, and Anna says, because they got what they wanted. They’ve got the Ice Princess; it’s not worth it to keep the case open. She and Felicia are the only ones concerned with Luke’s murder. This has Victor’s handwriting all over it. He must have realized they were closing in, and set someone up to take the fall. Valentin listens from behind a partition, and Anna says, so if Jennifer was framed, their next move is to find this man she brought to her room. Once they find Françoise Olivier, then they should get the truth. Valentin takes off the moustache, and tosses it aside.   

Trina says, gin, and Marshall says, she did not. Girl, you a card shark. Curtis comes in, and Marshall asks if everything is all right at the club. Curtis says he worked it out. He’s going to look in on Aunt Stella. Portia comes out, and says, that’s perfect timing. She’s resting comfortably. Is he good? He says, yeah, and asks if Marshall stayed here. Portia says, he did, and she’s glad. It seems as if he was a real help to Trina. Marshall says, your deal, card shark.

Sonny says, for a long time, he didn’t give Scotty a thought; Scotty was like nothing in his world. Then in Pennsylvania, Scotty surprised him, and he said to himself, wow, but he thought it was a fluke. But now Scotty’s coming in here, showing Sonny what a contender he is. Congratulations. He’s going to get exactly what he deserves.

Harmony looks at a picture of Willow on her phone, and cries. 

Willow yawns, and tells Michael, sorry; it’s been a long day. He agrees, but knows what would make it better – cuddling with Wiley and a bedtime story. She says, that makes everything better. Just be prepared to carry her to bed too. He tells her, then be prepared for him to wake her up. Nina comes in, and they glare at one another. Then Brendon walks in, and stands behind Nina.

On Monday, Ava says, she and Trina need to discuss ground rules; Alexis says, Nikolas is full of surprises; and Carly wonders who Nina is going to go after next.

🧼 On This Day In Soap…

What happened in soaps on this day.

🍵 Dishing the Soap…

The GH stars talk about their co-workers. I can’t believe Roger Howarth isn’t considered Most Likely to Ad-Lib.

🗽 A Given…

Doesn’t everyone wish they’d made more at every job?

👹 Beyond Flipping  Tables…

This looked like literal insanity.

👠 Gia In the House…

Does this make her a friend of the Housewives now?

https://screenrant.com/gia-giudice-reportedly-filming-rhonj-season-12-reunion/

👰🏻 Uncertainty In New Jersey…

I’m guessing she’ll make a decision as soon as the paycheck is big enough. (See article on Jill Zarin.)

💳 Exchanging London For Dubai…

I can’t wait to see this one. I loved Ladies of London, Caroline in particular. And I always enjoy seeing Dubai, since I will never, ever be able to afford to go there. Unless that guy with the balloons visits me, and I don’t mean Pennywise.

I hate to say it, but the house isn’t that interesting. It’s very sterile-looking. Even the closet was a disappointment.

https://www.bravotv.com/ladies-of-london/photos/take-a-look-inside-caroline-stanburys-finished-dubai-home#10858792

💰 Well, That Stinks…

I’ll miss them. I hope Reza gets some kind of spin-off show.

https://people.com/tv/bravo-cancels-shahs-of-sunset-after-9-seasons/

🐶 Ending On an Aww…

Please feel free to squee.

https://www.yardbarker.com/lifestyle/articles/20_celebrity_pets_that_will_make_you_say_aw/s1__34563662

🥂 Quotes of the Week

Forgiveness is the fragrance that the violet sheds on the heel that has crushed it.Mark Twain

The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.B. B. King (Or integrity.)

All dreams are within reach. All you have to do is keep moving towards them. – Viola Davis

Equality may perhaps be a right, but no power on earth can ever turn it into a fact. – Honore de Balzac

I find television very educating. Every time somebody turns on the set, I go into the other room and read a book. – Groucho Marx

When we long for life without difficulties, remind us that oaks grow strong in contrary winds and diamonds are made under pressure. – Peter Marshall

I am determined to be cheerful and happy in whatever situation I may find myself. For I have learned that the greater part of our misery or unhappiness is determined not by our circumstance but by our disposition. – Martha Washington

🛌🏽 Going To My Happy Place…

Meet me here when the Dead Walk again. Until then, stay safe, stay exercising your body and mind, and stay not being so engrossed in a phone call that you don’t know who’s listening.

April 7, 2022 – Michael Promises an Exclusive To Smoltz, Taking Over, New Film, Non-Negotiable, Reuniting & Grazing

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

In his office on the phone, Sonny says, he’ll stay in touch. They’ll finalize the deal, and he’ll give them all the details. He’s looking forward to it. He hangs up, and there’s a knock at the door. He says, come on in, and Frank brings in Nina. She says she came here in person so he wouldn’t be blindsided. He has a butterfly bandage over his eye, and she asks, what happened? He tells her not to worry about it. Whatever she came here to say, he appreciates the heads up, because defense is a lot easier when you see the hit coming.

Everyone gets in place for a family photo, and Portia asks Stella what she’s doing. Come here, and get in this picture. Stella’s vision goes blurry, and she drops to the floor. Portia, TJ, and Curtis run over, and Portia asks Trina to get her medical bag. TJ tells Stella that she’s going to be fine; focus on him and breathe slowly. Portia tells TJ, her pulse is thready, and TJ says, her pupils are dilated.

French Polynesia. French navy guy Valentin asks if this chair is taken, and Jennifer says she never turns down a cool drink from a hot man. He sits, and tells the bartender, whatever madame is drinking, bring two. Jennifer introduces herself, and Valentin says, bonjour. Captain Françoise Oliver – he kisses her hand – at her service.

At the MetroCourt, Michael says, Willow still can’t find her phone? and she says, no. She could swear she put it in her purse before they went out the door. He asks if she’s tried looking in her hand, and she says, wow. She’s losing her mind. She puts it in her purse, and he says, she’s just nervous about meeting with the reporter. She says she knows it was Diane’s suggestion, but she’s not convinced offering Smoltz a story in exchange for Smoltz dropping the charges against him is one of her better ideas. He says, it doesn’t hurt to explore their options. He won’t do anything she’s not okay with. They’re a team. She says, and don’t you forget it, and they kiss. A man approaches them, and says, Michael Corinthos and Willow Tate? Willow asks what this is about, and the man hands them each an envelope, saying, you’ve been served.

Harmony goes to Carly’s office, and says, Carly’s assistant wasn’t at her desk. She hopes she’s not disturbing her. Carly asks if she’s lost, and Harmony says, no, but feel free to tell her to get lost after she tells Carly why she’s here.

Laura asks what goal she and Victor could possibly have in common, and Victor says, the well-being of the people they care about. It’s time to put the past behind them and look to the future, and their family’s place in it. If she knew how high the stakes were right now for the people they love, she woudn’t hesitate to help him.

On the phone in a private area of the MetroCourt, Alexis says, they asked her to sit on a television panel to talk about cyber-exploitation… Yeah, it would be great exposure for the newspaper… She thanks them for convincing her she might be good at this job… Smoltz comes out of nowhere, and says, congratulations, Alexis Davis, while doing a slow clap. He says, the cyber-exploitation article is making her famous. Too bad she stole it from him.

Valentin asks Jennifer what’s brought her to the island, and she says, an auction of something priceless to her. Valentin says, how exciting, and she says, it belonged to someone very special. He says, and this someone special, is here with her? She wonders if the captain is asking if she’s single, and he says, how do you Americans say? You got me. She laughs and says, nobody special at the moment. Anyone special in his life?

Laura asks if her family is in danger, but Victor says, not yet. But they do live in uncertain times, and she has a lot of family to consider. There’s her other son, her daughter, her grandchildren, that charming husband of hers, not to mention the two brothers she just recently got to know. She asks what he cares about her brothers; he never cared about his own. Frankly, his rebirth as a devoted family man doesn’t just strain believability; it’s laughable.

TJ tells Stella, good news. This isn’t a stroke. Portia says they’ll conduct an EKG when they get to the hospital, but it doesn’t look like it was a heart attack either. Curtis asks, then what is it? Why did she collapse? TJ says, they’ll find out more when they get to the hospital, but there don’t appear to be any physical symptoms. Stella says she couldn’t breathe, and everything went black. Marshall says, the paramedics are here, and he and TJ help Stella to the door. Curtis asks Portia what she and TJ think happened, and she says they think Aunt Stella might have suffered a panic attack.

Nina says she hopes her news isn’t too much of a hit for Sonny, Michael, and Willow, and he says, she petitioned the court for visitation of Wiley?She says she did; Michael and Willow are going to be served any minute now. He says he was hoping to prevent this, and she says, he did what he could. Like she told him, she doesn’t want him to referee. He says he doesn’t think he could talk to Michael anyway, even if he tried, and she says she did everything she could to keep this out of the courts and minimize the impact on him. Although it seems like her actions only made it worse between him and Michael. He says, Michael’s anger is at him, not her, and she says, regardless of who takes responsibility, her first priority is to make sure she’s in her grandson’s life. It’s a crazy thought, but she’s hoping someday she’ll have an amicable relationship with her grandson’s parents.

Willow wonders if Smoltz filed a civil suit, but Michael says, if that were the case, he’d just be served, not her. They open the envelopes, and she says, oh no. He says, Nina has filed for visitation with Wiley, and she says she can’t believe she’s surprised, but she is. Nina’s going through with it; dragging them all into a court battle. He says he knew she was going to do this. Any pretense of a compromise or being reasonable was just window dressing. She says, Nina is selfish to the core. She goes after what she wants, consequences be damned. He says, what happened to his parents is proof of that.

Carly says, Harmony is Willow’s mom, so if she needs to tell Harmony to get lost, she thinks she can come up with a more polite way to phrase it. Harmony says, fair enough, and Carly asks her to have a seat. Harmony says she won’t take up too much of Carly’s time. She’s looking for a job. Carly says she thought Harmony had one, when Harmony’s phone rings. Carly asks if she needs to get it, but Harmony says, it’s not important. She still has a job at Spring Ridge, but she’s trying to save up for a security deposit for an apartment, and two jobs would be really helpful. Carly asks where she’s living now, and Harmony says, a really generous friend is letting her stay with her temporarily; Alexis Davis. Carly says she knows Alexis, and Harmony says, having a second job would get her out of Alexis’s place faster and into her own. Carly says she admires Harmony’s drive, but is she sure she’s going to have enough energy to moonlight? Harmony says she’ll totally find the energy. It’s important that she doesn’t burden Alexis. She’s caused enough trouble as it is.

Alexis says she didn’t steal anything from Smoltz. Story ideas come across her desk all day long. He says, maybe, but he pitched her that revenge porn scoop first, then she gave it to another reporter behind his back. She says she gave it to another reporter because he would have turned it into tabloid fodder, and he says he can be sensitive and relevant, but she didn’t give him the chance. She took the low road to take the high road. She asks if he doesn’t think she read the articles of his that nutcase Peter put in The Invader? She doesn’t owe him anything. He doesn’t have a high road. He begs to differ, and says, so here’s the deal. He won’t sue her for stealing his idea. In return, she’s in his debt, and he intends to collect. She asks what he wants, and he says, a five part feature in The Invader. She asks if he thinks she’s going to agree to that, and he says, he does. Because if she doesn’t, she’ll be looking in looking dusty corners to find story ideas after his colleagues find out she did him dirty. She says, he doesn’t know all the journalists out there, and he says, maybe not, but he has a huge social following. Even if he’s not liked, he’s known. Is she willing to take the chance that this will go away? No.

Jennifer says Valentin never answered his question. He’s not wearing a ring. Does that mean he’s single? He says, there is someone back home, and she says, of course (🍷), but he says he assumes they’re destined be together. She asks, why? and he says he needs a woman who’s sure of what she wants. She says she knows what she wants. She wants to get to know him better, unless he’s not up for that. He says, au contraire, Jennifer. He would like nothing more, but he’s on leave and has only one night. She says, a lot can happen in one night, and they clink glasses.

The doctor comes in and tells Stella that TJ told him what happened. Stella asks if TJ told him that he thinks she’s losing her mind, but TJ tells her, he didn’t say that. The doctor says, his specialty isn’t the mind, but all doctors know physiology and psychology are closely linked. They can start by examining her. Portia says, they’ll wait outside, and Curtis says he doesn’t want to crowd her, but… Stella says, Portia can stay, and Portia says, of course (🍷).

Willow says, and what about what Nina did to her mom; manipulating her, so she could advocate to them for Nina to see Wiley. He says, they’ll have to make peace with Smoltz, and she says, he means cut a deal. He says, now that Nina filed the petition with the court, he has to make the assault charge disappear, or Nina and Scotty will try to exploit it to strengthen their case. She says, he’s right. They’ll have to play nice with that slimy reporter. Michael says, only to a point. They’ll have to be careful with the kind of story they offer Smoltz. She says, or they may live to regret it.

Carly says, she and Harmony share a grandson, she she’s happy to help. Does she have any experience that suited to hotel work? Harmony says she does; experience in cleaning and serving. Carly says, great. She’d love for Harmony to meet her partner Olivia Quartermaine. She thinks Monday works best. If it doesn’t work for Harmony, they can pick another day… Harmony says, it’s not that. In the interest of full disclosure, Harmony thinks she should tell Carly that she recently went to bat for Wiley’s other grandmother Nina Reeves.

Nina says, Michael can be reasonable. He let her see Wiley when Sonny was in Nixon Falls, until… Sonny says, until he found out Nina lied about him, and she says, that was her 463,000th mistake, and now Michael is angry at both of them. Sonny says, and afraid, because for whatever reason, Michael believes Nina is a danger to Wiley. She says she would never ever hurt her grandson, but the way Carly, Michael, and Willow act, you’d thinks she was a physical threat to him. Sonny says, Nelle was.

Trina asks Marshall if there’s any news, and he says, Stella is being examined. He wonder what she did with the cheese and crackers. Let’s not wait for news on an empty stomach. Trina says she’s not that hungry, and he says he knows how it feels when people get the wrong impression. She says, people think she betrayed her best friends. It makes her sick to her stomach. He says he knows it hurts. It hurts to be misunderstood. You know how he’s learned to deal with it? He brushes his shoulder, and says, not caring what strangers feel about him. She says, what about someone she considers a friend? How does she not care his feelings have changed? He says, that depends. Has he been a true friend to her? She says, her mom would say no, and he asks, why is that? She says, he asked her to cover for him when they first met. Then he did something pretty awful to someone she cares about, and now, he’s choosing to believe someone else over her. Marshall says he understands why her mom thinks this guy’s not deserving of Trina’s friendship, and she says she should have never invested in someone who had so many secrets.

Laura lifts her glass of ice tea, and says, may Victor achieve his dream of being the devoted family man of the year. She takes a sip, and says, come on now. No witty retort? No charming parry? He asks, what is there to parry? The Cassadines have a lamentable history, and the part he played in their schemes is well known. He’s been trying to make almonds amends, but her skepticism is quite understandable. She says he almost sounds sincere, and he says, his life has been horribly lonely over the last few years. When he went hiding after the explosion at Creighton-Clark, Nikolas was the only one who knew he survived. Laura says, he never told her, and Victor says, he told Nikolas not to. Nikolas would check in on him from time to time, but he knew Nikolas’s place was here in Port Charles. He spent a lot of time thinking about Valentin, dreaming about being a real grandfather to Charlotte. She says, as much as he dreamed about money and power. He says, what is money? What use is power if you can’t use it to improve the lives of your loved ones? She asks, what happened to the Victor Cassadine she used to know and hate? and he says, admittedly, he’s come to this appreciation of family rather late in life, but here and now, he’s more committed than she’ll ever know.

Alexis says she’s not going to be bullied by Smoltz, and he asks, who’s bullying? He’s a good writer with well-placed sources. She won’t be compromising herself by giving him a chance. She says, text her; make an appointment. He says she can’t blow him off that easily. She liked his revenge porn story enough to steal it. She thinks he’s a one hit wonder? He’ll just take his next pitch to the competition, and encourage his fellow journalists to do the same. She says, tell her when he comes across his next story. No promises.

Smoltz goes into the other room, and over to Michael and Willow’s table. Michael gets up, and Smoltz ducks and says, not the face. A little assault and battery humor. Kidding aside, there are plenty of witnesses here if Michael does come after him again. Michael says, all he wants to hit Smoltz with is an offer; have a seat. Smoltz tells him, so his attorney said when she set up this meeting. What has he got? Michael says, a mutually agreeable solution to their problem.

Carly says, Harmony went to bat for Nina over what? and Harmony says, over visitation with Wiley. Nina asked Harmony to appeal to Willow and Michael. In retrospect, she really wishes she’d said no. She felt she owed Nina. Carly says, for what? and Harmony says, as someone who doesn’t get much of a chance to see Wiley as well. She understood how Nina was feeling; they both love that little boy so much… Carly says, but now that Harmony has had time to think about it, she realizes Nina only uses people to get what she wants, and Harmony says, absolutely. She knows it’s best to just stay out of Nina’s affairs; getting involved has consequences. Carly thanks Harmony for telling her, and says, as for the job, Harmony can fill out an application online, and she’ll have her HR person flag the application. Harmony thanks her, and Carly says she’ll be in touch. As Harmony is leaving, her phone rings again

Nina asks, how does Nelle’s behavior have anything to do with her seeing her grandson? and Sonny tells her, he’s just saying maybe his family sees something of Nelle in her, and her in Nelle. She says she didn’t even get a chance to be able to raise her daughter, and she’s being blamed for how Nelle turned out? He tells her, he’s not saying it’s right. He’s saying maybe Michael believes it. She has to admit Nelle was capable of evil. She says, so Nelle was destined to be bad because of her DNA? and he says, it could show up in court, even if it’s not true. She’s nothing like Nelle. She says, thank you… I think, and he says, he sees all of her, and he’s thinking maybe Michael and Willow will too.  

Alexis asks if Carly is busy, and Carly says, she already told Alexis’s roommate she’d consider it. Alexis says, consider what? and Carly says, she’s not here about Harmony’s job? Alexis says, at Spring Ridge? and Carly suggests they start over again. What brings Alexis to her office? Alexis says she was offered a television spot to sit on a panel to discuss the article regarding Josslyn and Cameron. Carly says she knew it was getting traction, but didn’t know it was that much traction, and Alexis says, it’s a hot button issue, but if Carly thinks this will make Josslyn uncomfortable, she won’t do it. Carly says she can’t answer for Josslyn and Cameron, and Alexis says, then she’ll speak to them herself. As a courtesy, she wanted to run it by Carly first. Carly says, she appreciates it, and Alexis lingers. Carly asks if there’s anything else she can help Alexis with, and Alexis says, what is this about Harmony and a job?  

Smoltz says, their problem? Michael hit him, which makes the problem Michael’s. Harmony walks in, and Michael says, if the charges are brought to trial many months from now, his lawyer is confident she can prove undue provocation. When Commissioner Ashford is brought in to testify about the alleged attack, his lawyer will cross-examine her about how Smoltz sought him out, and made inflammatory remarks about his younger sister, a traumatized victim of revenge porn. Harmony comes by the table, and asks if she’s interrupting. She just thought she’d say hi. Willow suggests they give Michael and Smoltz a chance to talk, and tells Michael that she won’t be far if he needs her. She and Harmony leave, and Michael says, that’s if this even goes to trial. The DA might consider the case too weak and throw the charges out altogether. Smoltz suggests they talk about the civil suit he can file against Michael, and the damages he’ll get. Maybe Michael can advise him on which Caribbean island is best for the winter months. Michael asks if Smoltz can really afford ten, maybe twenty, years of litigation in civil court, because his lawyers can drag this out indefinitely, and trust him, Smoltz will go bankrupt before he ever sees a dime of Michael’s money.

Harmony asks Willow, what is it? and Willow says, Nina filed a petition for visitation. Harmony sighs, and says she didn’t think it would come to this. Does Willow think they can reach an agreement with Nina before they go to court? Willow says, no. They’re past that point; Nina has crossed too many lines. Any hope for a civil relationship is dead.

Nina thanks Sonny for seeing more of her than just her past. He says, she sees all of him, and she says she tries. He says she doesn’t just try; she does. She accepted his behavior when he’s been off on occasion. She got him through, and didn’t judge him. She asks if he finally wants to tell her what happened, and he says he walked into a punch. She asks if he’s sparring again, and he says, it’s good for the heart. She says, but it’s bad for the brain. He’s still bleeding. Let her take care of him. She gets a cloth and dabs at his wound, and he says, hurts so good. She asks if it hurts, but he says, she has a soft touch, and they kiss.

Jennifer asks how a nice cool shower sounds, and Valentin says, sounds refreshing. However, he prefers the delicious anticipation of waiting for her to return after her shower. She says, you French are such charmers, and he says, of course (🍷) he expects a moment by moment account, and she says, mon capitaine, you are a naughty one. He says, she has no idea, and she opens a wardrobe containing a safe. He watches as she opens the safe, and puts her jewelry inside. She tells him that she’ll be back two shakes. She goes into the bathroom, and he takes out a velvet pouch. She says she’s stepping into the shower, and he asks how the water is. She says, divine, and he tells her, describe everything, as he goes to the wardrobe and opens it. She says, first, her chest. She’s circling around her body, lathering her neck and arms; now her toes. He looks at the safe and hums.

Marshall says, all secrets are not created equal, and Trina says, but lying to protect a secret is never right. He says he’s no philosopher, but he believes certain lies are morally justified, and she tells him, who’s to say what’s immoral or not? He says, that’s a judgement call, and she says, her dad would agree with him. He had her believe he was dead, and she knows now he lied to protect her, but at the time, he broke her heart. He says, seems like her dad and him have a lot in common. Instead of saving their children from pain, they both inflicted it on them.

Stella thanks Portia for staying with her, and Portia says, her pleasure; of course (🍷). Curtis knocks, and asks if he’s invited back in. Stella tells him to come over and give her some sugar. He gives her a hug and kiss, and she asks if the doctor told him, there’s no need to fuss. He says, the doctor told him she’s not suffering from any physician conditions, but there’s definitely something going on. She says, it’s just stress, and he says, enough to cause heart palpitations? Something’s definitely got her rattled… or someone.

Alexis tells Carly, Harmony was her only friend in Spring Ridge; Harmony was her crutch. So if Carly wants her to give a recommendation, she can tell Carly that Harmony is very conscientious, and she’s a hard worker… and not good enough? Carly says, it’s not that, it’s just… Harmony told her that Nina got her to talk to Michael and Willow about visitation with Wiley. Alexis says she has an idea of how Carly feels about that, and Carly says she doesn’t like the idea of anyone forming an alliance with Nina. Alexis says, at least Harmony was honest about it, knowing it could cost her a job, and Carly says, but Harmony said something else that was really strange. She said she owed Nina. Alexis says, owed her what? and Carly says, maybe it doesn’t matter. Is Alexis saying Carly can trust her?

Harmony says, Willow is the most forgiving person she knows. There’s got to be hope for reconciliation between her and Nina. Willow says, not after all the harm Nina has caused; sleeping with Sonny, breaking up his marriage. And all the while, stringing Willow along with a promise of compromise about Wiley. Nina’s a narcissist. She’s selfish and self-serving. Willow doesn’t want her anywhere near Wiley. There’s no compromising on that. Harmony’s phone rings, and she takes a look, but doesn’t answer. Willow says, somebody wants to talk to her. Why is she ignoring it? You know, I can suspend my disbelief over things like Nixon Falls, but who on earth would ask that IRL?

Smoltz says, if he drops the charges, what does he get as thanks? and Michael says, an exclusive. Smoltz asks, how exclusive? and Michael says he just got served with notice that Nina Reeves, real estate heiress, Crimson editor, and convicted kidnapper, has petitioned for visitation with his son Wiley. Smoltz says, her grandson; that’s not news. Michael says, what he’s offering is an on the record account of Nina’s conflict with his family. Everything from her time in Nixon Falls to the present. And a little background to the abduction of Avery Corinthos. Smoltz says, now Michael’s got his attention.

Sonny and Nina continue to kiss, when Sonny’s phone rings. He picks it up, says, business associate, and puts it back down. Nina says, no, she thinks he should get back to work. She picks up her bag and coat, and says, like she told him, she wanted to alert him about the petition. He says he appreciates that, and she says, see him around. He says she can count on it, and she goes to the door. She turns back, and says, mend fences with Michael, even if it means siding against her in court. He says he’s on Wiley’s side, whatever’s best for him. She says, hopefully that includes having his grandmother in his life. He says, kids need all the love they can get. As a matter-of-fact, everybody needs all the love they can get. He smiles, and I like this Sonny.

Curtis asks if Marshall upset Stella, and she tells him, don’t be silly. He says, she and Marshall had an intense conversation earlier. If that bothered her, he needs to know. She says, it’s not his job to worry about her, but he says, it’s his job to protect his family… even if it’s from his own father.

Victor says, if he and Laura work together, combining her pragmatism with his imagination, they would be unstoppable. She says, to what end? and he says, the future; a better future. She says, it’s a shame Luke Spencer won’t be around to enjoy some of that better future, and he says, Luke’s passing is indeed a terrible tragedy. Laura’s phone dings, and she looks at it and frowns. Victor says, bad news? and she says, Doc can’t make lunch. He got called to a staff meeting. Victor says he’s sorry. He’d ask her to join him, but he’s pretty sure he knows what her answer would be. She says, good. Then he won’t be disappointed when she turns him down. He says, she does believe he cares for Nikolas and Spencer, doesn’t she? and she says, he may be sincere in wanting to do right by his family… He says, he senses a but coming, and she says, but it wouldn’t be him, would it? He’s the kind of guy who sees what he wants, and he goes and he gets it. No matter who or what is in his way.

Jennifer says, the showerhead tickles, and Valentin brings the pouch over to the safe. He starts putting in a combination, and says, is that a good thing or a bad thing? She says, so good. Is he sure he won’t join her. The combination doesn’t work, so he tries another, and she says, the water is wonderful. He says, just hearing her voice is driving him crazy, and he gets another dud. He keeps trying, and asks if she’s washing her hair, and she says she already did. The next combination doesn’t work, and he says, magnifique. She says she’s ready for him to towel her off.

Smoltz says, Michael wants a hit piece on Nina Reeves, and Michael says he wants to set the record straight about Nina’s erratic behavior. The damage she’s caused, the laws she’s broken, and the questionable judgement she’s shown. Smoltz says he’ll need more than a list of grievances, and Michael says, he’ll have enough material to write a dozen articles; sources, dates, and even the inside scoop on Nina’s relationship with his father. Smoltz says, if Michael’s got the goods, they’ve got a deal. This will be the feature of a lifetime, and he knows exactly who will run it. Speaking of running it, doesn’t Michael think he should run all this by Carly first?

Nina tells Sonny to put ice on his eyebrow, and stick to dancing. He asks if she knew that boxing and dancing are similar. You could easily be distracted, and if you mess with your footwork, you can get hurt. And they’re both contact sports, so you need plenty of practice. She tells him to call her if he needs a partner, and he says, for sparring? but she says, no. They’ve already fought enough in the ring, but if he wants to perfect his box step, she’ll leave room on her dance card.

Alexis gets a call from Smoltz, but ignores it. She says she can vouch for Harmony’s work ethic, but whether Carly hires Harmony is up to her. Carly thanks her, and also for telling her about Joss and Cam. Alexis has given her a lot to think about. Alexis says she’ll stay in touch, and leaves.

On the phone, Marshall asks Stella how she’s doing, and she says, apparently, it was a panic attack. He says, those panic attacks, they can be frightening, and she says, it got her thinking about all she’s been holding inside. He gets up, stepping away from Trina, and says, that was just what he was doing just now. It’s healthier to unburden oneself. She says, healthier for who? His confession won’t be good for the family Curtis is forming, or their place in it. He asks what she’s saying, and she tells him, if Curtis asks him more about his past, stick to his story.

In a private spot, Curtis makes a call. He says, it’s Curtis Ashford. He’d like to revisit their proposition.

Harmony says, it’s just telemarketers, and Willow asks if she’s sure. What if it’s important? Harmony says, they didn’t leave a voicemail, so… Her phone dings, and Willow asks if she isn’t the least bit curious. Harmony looks at the text on her phone: It’s Brendon. We meet or next I call your daughter.

Laura says, goodbye, Victor, and he says, at least he tried. He won’t press his cause further today. He’ll give her time to change her mind. She says, he may not have that time to give. In fact, his time is rapidly running out.

Jennifer says she guesses she has to dry herself off, and Valentin makes one last attempt. She says she’s going to slip into something he can slip her out of easily, and asks if they should order champagne. He finally gets the safe open, and says, voila! Absolutment. Champagne is a necessity. He is parched. Jennifer comes out, and asks what he thinks he’s doing.  

Tomorrow, Trina says, if she pleads guilty, this is all over; Willow tells Michael, their relationship with Harmony might work in their favor; Anna says, there’s something more than what meets the eye; and Curtis tells Selena, his term is non-negotiable.

🏥 How She’s Doing…

It’s not easy taking over for an already established character, so my hat’s off to her. That being said, I’m missing the old Trina. It’s not the new actress that I have issues with, but the way she’s being directed. The new Trina seems to be more passive in some way, and I’m not loving it.

🎥 Crushing It…

This sounds promising, and it’s free on TubiTV.com. I love that site. You can always find weird stuff there. Try Dinosaur Hotel while you’re there. If you like B-pictures, you won’t be sorry.

🗽 Boo Hiss…

Shame on the Housewives for not letting Eboni play their reindeer games. And contrary to what the article says, I did miss them having a Reunion. I was actually kind of pissed off that they didn’t. I also thought Eboni was a great addition to the cast. God forbid we should learn stuff.

https://ew.com/tv/eboni-k-williams-rhony-castmates-wouldnt-negotiate-future-with-her/

💣 Third Kill…

Another promising piece of entertainment. I would say, you can’t miss with that cast, but I saw Sphere in the movie theater. It’s 134 minutes of my life I can’t get back.

https://ew.com/movies/samuel-l-jackson-uma-thurman-reunite-the-kill-room/

🍩 Whatever Gets You Through the Night…

Hope to see you tomorrow for Friday’s wild card of soap, tea, insightful words, and an appropriate (or not) musical effort. Until then, stay safe, stay thirsty for knowledge, and stay knowing that boxing might be good for the heart, but it’s bad for the brain. So dance instead.