Category Archives: real housewives

November 24, 2021 – Sam Gets a Thanksgiving Surprise, Grateful For a Finale, Afterward, Trying To Get Back, Thanksgiving TV, Ten Little Quotes Of Gratitude & Alice

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Chase’s phone rings while he’s in the shower. He grabs it, and asks Brook, what’s up? She asks where he is, and he says, in the shower; he did the turkey trot this morning. She asks if cops aren’t supposed to be peace keepers. She needs him there to keep the peace. He asks, what’s going on? and she says, nothing yet, but her father’s head is going to explode when he finds out it’s Chase, not Valentin, who’s Bailey’s father. He asks her to let him get the soap out of his eyes, and dry off, and she says, don’t forget, this was his idea. Now they have to sell it. He says he has to talk to Finn first, and she says she needs him now. He asks if she remembers who saved her bacon from Valentin, and she says, actually he saved Bailey’s bacon from Peter. He tells her, they’re in this together. Stop ordering him around, and he’ll be there soon. She says, just wear a tie, and he says, sure. It will give her father something handy to string him up with.

Austin tells TJ that he did a great job. What’s next? Is he going to choose ER again as his next elective rotation? Finn walks up, and says, infectious diseases. Austin’s loss, his gain. Austin asks, what’s the fun in that? There’s no adrenaline rush in internal medicine. Finn says he’d be surprised, and TJ asks what Austin’s plans are today. Austin says, go home, eat a turkey burger, and watch football. Marshall watches from the landing above.

Curtis is looking at the photo Marshall gave him, when Portia comes into the club. He asks what she’s doing there. He thought he locked the door. She says, no, it was open. Is he okay? He says he just didn’t hear her come in, and she says he looked like he was a million miles away. She didn’t hear back, which isn’t like him, so she decided to come check. He says he got her text, but he has so much going on. He’s sorry. What’s up? She says, dinner, for one. Is he still coming? He says, when? and she says, today. Thanksgiving? She asks if he’s okay.

Dante and Sam watch the parade with the kids from Sam’s balcony, and Rocco says, this is sweet. He wonders why they haven’t done it before, and Sam tells him, play his cards right, and he’ll get invited again. Jake says he’s glad they came; it can get boring. Dante comes up behind Sam, putting his arms around her. He wants to lock down another invite, and she thinks it can be swung. They go inside, and Jake says, that was awesome. Sam tells them to take their coats off, and asks, who’s ready for some treats? Rocco asks where the treats are, and Dante says he and Sam will get that sorted out. They have a movie ready to go upstairs, Kristina Comes Home for Christmas. The boys roll their eyes, and Sam tells Danny that he’s being rude. Rocco says, that movie’s ancient, and Dante says, that’s the point. Good old-fashioned Christmas magic. Scout says she wants to see it, and Sam says, that’s her girl. Go upstairs, and they’ll get some snacks ready. They head upstairs, and Dante says Sam saved his butt. They didn’t want to watch the movie, but she had snacks and treats. She says she has some tricks up her sleeve. She has cookies, muffins, donuts, and cupcakes from Kelly’s. He says, what about coffee? and she says, and nachos. She asks if he thinks the kids are getting along, and he says, yeah. He knows Rocco misses Charlotte. The holidays are always tough without his mom, but he seems happy with Scout and Danny. She says, Danny and Scout miss Jason, and Drew, and he says, at least they get to see their families at the Quartermaines. There’s a holiday movie for her. He thinks it would be a horror film. She says, there’s a sequel at the Davis’s. Is he sure he’s up for it? He says, of course (🍷) he is. He and her mom are good; they made peace. As long as she’s up for what that means, if they show up at their families’ houses at the holidays with their kids together. She says, it’s a big deal, and he says, it makes them official.

Brook tells Ned to go easy on the coffee. He might want to switch to decaf, the way family Thanksgivings go around here. He says, not this year. Things are finally looking up. He and Olivia are finally on the same page. After Leo’s disappearance last night at Ava’s gallery, she came to realize, Leo does need to see a specialist; that he was only acting in Leo’s best interest. Which doesn’t let Brook off the hook for letting Leo out of her eyesight, or using Austin’s genuine concern for Leo against him. She says, she did it for the family. If he’s going to be mad at her for losing Leo and sticking it to Austin, he can kiss the Normal Rockwell Thanksgiving he envisions goodbye. It’s never been the Q’s reality, and it’s not going to start now.

Chase looks in the mirror, and says he can do this. He practices telling Finn about Bailey, and says, he so doesn’t have this.

TJ tells Austin that Portia is hosting a Thanksgiving dinner. They’re all going to be there. Him and Molly… Finn says, Elizabeth and her kids, him and his daughter Violet, his brother Chase. It’s a good group. TJ says Austin will be welcome. No one should be alone on Thanksgiving. He and his Uncle Curtis will have the game on as well. Austin thanks him, but declines, and Finn asks if he’s holding out for a better offer. Olivia asks if she can talk to Austin a second, but he says, no. He’s done talking to her or anyone else in her family ever again. He walks away, and she runs after him. Finn tells TJ that he’s losing his reputation as the quirkiest doctor at GH, and TJ says he wasn’t aware that was Finn’s reputation. Finn says, diplomacy will get him far. Finn looks forward to working with him, and says, see him at dinner.

Curtis says his mind is just trying to figure out what’s real and what isn’t, and Portia asks if he’s talking about the club. Yesterday, he was wondering if the mob was blocking his musical guests, and then arranging for that singer to just magically appear. Did he figure something out? He says, yes, but it wasn’t what he thought. No shadowy organizations. That might have actually been simpler. She says, simpler than what? but he’s not ready to get into this right now. She asks if it’s about the man in the sketch, the one who was asking her and TJ questions about Curtis and the club. What’s going on? He says he wishes he knew, and she says, okay. She sees that he doesn’t want to talk about it right now, so she won’t pry, but if he changes his mind, she’s there to listen. And if he doesn’t feel like coming to dinner, she completely understands. She’ll miss him, but hopes he works through whatever’s going on. She starts to leave, but he tells her, wait. She’s the only one he can talk to about this. Would she stay? Please?

Dante and Sam get the snacks ready, and Dante asks what she wants to bet the kids will be bouncing off the walls by lunch. She says, as long as they don’t break anything too precious at the Quartermaines, she thinks she’ll be okay, and he says, the advantage of going to the Quartermaines is that everything of value has probably been broken or moved. She says, Monica does like having a full house. She’s glad they didn’t tell her that Drew is alive, because then they’d have to tell her that he’s presumed dead, and that would really hurt her. He says, came close though, and she says, it would have been the ultimate gift to bring Drew home for the holidays, not only for Monica, but for Scout. She just hopes Jason makes it home in time for Christmas for Danny’s sake. Dante says, if not, he and Rocco will come decorate the tree with her, but then they have to come and help them decorate theirs, and do things like ice skating. He can teach her how to do that too. She says she’s totally down for that; it all sounds good. Their little families are blending so well. He tells her, like his mother would say, like buttah.

Oliva asks Austin to listen to what she has to say before she breaks her ankle walking in these shoes. He stops, and she says she was wrong about him; about his motives in insisting her son needs to see a specialist. She was in denial, and the other night, something happened. Leo disappeared, and if he hadn’t given that heads up, and Ned hadn’t taken him seriously, she doesn’t think they would have found him in time. Austin says, he was near water, and she says, he was, and because Ned did his homework, they knew to search for him by the docks. Then everything just fell into place. The whole thing Austin was wondering about, and Ned was wondering about, it all makes sense. And she’s committed to getting her son all the support he needs. Austin says, that’s great news, and she says, it’s all because of him. She’s truly sorry that she accused him of using her son to further his position with ELQ. She hopes he forgives her.

Ned asks why Brook is so defensive. Does it have anything to do with Valentin and Charlotte packing up and moving out last night? She says she has to check on Bailey, but he says, stop right there. Initially, he admits he was relieved to see them go, but after seeing Yuri, he noticed Yuri was particularly upset. So he questioned Yuri, and he kept repeating the same phrase about Bailey and Belarus. Ned entered the phrase into the translator, and it was something about the right seed. He’s impressed at how she and Valentin have co-parented. It’s a sign of maturity on her part. So if she’s hit a bump, that doesn’t mean it’s insurmountable. Look at him and Olivia. Whatever’s going on, he’s there to help if he can. She says, he can’t. Valentin isn’t Bailey’s father.

Chase goes to Finn’s office, and says he was hoping to find Finn there. Finn says he’s catching up on patient files, and asks if Chase is working a case. Chase says he’s off today, and Finn asks if he isn’t overdressed for football with TJ and the boys. By the way, Violet is playing quarterback; she’s got the whole thing worked out. Chase says, about that… and Finn says, he’s still coming to dinner, right? Chase says, something’s come up.

Curtis tells Portia, after he tracked down Linc, he found out Linc was working for someone else. She says, the guy from the sketch? Not organized crime. He says he honestly doesn’t know, but the guy came in and they talked. He was the one responsible for getting the artist here. She says, which is why he was so interested in asking questions about The Savoy, but he was also interested in Curtis too. Curtis says, he was interested in both him and the club, and she says, which is why he did Curtis that huge favor? He says, apparently, but he also wanted a relationship. She asks, why? and Curtis says the guy claimed to be his father. She says she thought his father passed when he was a child, and he says, that’s what he was told, and that’s what he believed. Then this man Marshall – of course (🍷) that’s what he says his name is – comes in and tells him otherwise. She asks if he believes Marshall.

Curtis shows Portia the photo, and says, it was the last photo took before he left. She says, there’s a real resemblance between the man in the photo and the man who approached her and TJ. He says he showed Marshall the sketch, and when he asked why his mom and Aunt Stella let him and Tommy believe Marshall was dead, he couldn’t give a straight answer. He said he left because it wasn’t safe, whatever the hell that means. Curtis has to admit, it brought up feelings he didn’t know he had about not having a father in his life. How that pain and emptiness felt growing up, and he didn’t even realize it. About how a sudden disappearance suddenly made his life unpredictable. He never processed that, much less talked about it, until Marshall said he was his father. She says, he was only a child; he was three years old. He probably buried it. That’s exactly how trauma works. It seems Curtis might actually believe it’s true. He says, it doesn’t matter. He doesn’t want a relationship either way, and told Marshall that. At least he had the decency to get the hell out of Curtis’s life again. She asks if that’s the end of it? and he says, it better be, but she says she’s wondering if that’s what he really wants, or is he just trying to protect himself? He’s been a detective and a cop; he must have questions. Maybe there’s more to the story. He says, maybe.

Dante says he hopes Sam is ready to be showered with approval; his mom has been advocating for this a long time. She says she can’t believe she got Olivia’s approval, and he says, she got it big time. She says, that means a lot, and he says, he didn’t tell her, but there was kind of a situation with Leo last night. She asks, what happened? and he says, Leo is okay, but they think he might be on the autism spectrum. She says, she’s so sorry. She knows how trying that can be. He says she told him about her brother, and she says, it wasn’t nearly the same thing, but it was… challenging? He had a genetic disorder that caused behavioral issues. He was a loving boy, so well-rounded, and sweet, and kind. She loved him so much. She tears up, and Dante holds her.

Finn tells Chase, they should be together on Thanksgiving, especially since their mom and dad can’t make it. Just to guilt him some more, Violet will be very disappointed if he doesn’t come. Chase says he hate the thought of letting Violet down. Maybe he can swing by after. Finn says, after what? and Chase says, something’s come up; something he can’t get out of. Finn asks, what’s so urgent? and Chase says, it’s personal. Finn says, like a date? and Chase says, sort of. Finn asks if he can be more vague. What’s the name of the lucky lady who got him to turn his back on his family? Chase says, the mother of his child.

Ned asks what the hell Brook is talking about, and she says, does she really need to spell it out for him? He says, she means she was with more than one man around the same time, and she didn’t know who the father was? She says, it’s a little more complicated that. She knew who the father was, and decided not to be truthful about it for reasons she’s sure he can guess. He says, the ELQ shares? and she says, yes. He says, and she told Valentin last night? and she says, yes. He asks if she’s going to tell him who the father, is or does he not know yet? She says, he knows. He’s wonderful. Not that they have feelings for each other; it’s more casual. They’re friends, which is good, and Ned actually kind of likes him, more than he likes Valentin. He says, that’s not a high bar. So who is it? Who is Bailey’s father? She tells him, it’s Chase.

Finn tells Chase, wait… What?… How?… He knows how. Who’s the mother? Chase asks if Finn remembers when he and Willow broke up. Brook was on the outs with the Qs and she moved in for a while. Finn says, Brook Lynn Quartermaine, Tracy’s granddaughter; she’s the mother, and she didn’t tell him? Chase says, it’s complicated, but he just found out. Brook is a great mom. Finn says, a good mom makes all the difference. So Brook was lying to Valentin and Chase? Chase says, she was, but the lie is over, and they’re sorting through things. Finn says, just like that. Chase isn’t angry? Chase says, at first there were a lot of emotions, but he realized it’s only been a few months, and for part of that time he was living in the same house as Bailey. He held her and sang to her. Finn says, and Brook wants Chase to be part of Bailey’s life? Chase says, absolutely, and Finn says, Chase and Brook, are they…? Chase says, no; they’re just friends. Just that one time. Finn says, sorry. It’s a lot to take in. Congratulations, bro. He fathered a beautiful baby girl. He hugs Chase, saying, he’s happy for him, and Chase says, congratulations to him too. He’s an uncle. Finn says, Violet’s been asking for baby sister; he guesses a baby cousin is the next best thing. Chase asks if Finn can do him a favor and not mention it to Violet or anyone else, especially mom and dad. Brook hasn’t told her family yet, and the situation with Valentin is tricky. Finn says, of course (🍷), and tells Chase to watch his back with them. Not only does Chase have to deal with Valentin and all his nonsense, but the Quartermaines and that brings. Is he sure he’s prepared?

Ned says, Detective Chase is the father? He was here all this time, and they never said a word about it. Brook says, Chase didn’t know, and he says, she never told him? And he never even suspected? She says, she told him that Valentin was the father, and Ned says, but she knew he wasn’t. She kept the truth from Chase because she wanted use her child to get the ELQ shares back. She says, it was her fault they lost control of ELQ; she had to do something. He says, they were just shares. She kept that child from her real father. This is a mess. He has no one to blame but himself. He put too much pressure on Brook; now look where they are. Chase lost time with his daughter, and Valentin lost a child he thought was his. Both of these men’s lives have been completely upended. She says she’s so sorry, but he can’t blame himself. She takes responsibility. She truly did what she thought she had to do. He says, at least he still has his beautiful granddaughter; that won’t change. Just tell him, how did Valentin react to the news? She says, he was devastated, and very angry. Ned says, he’s bound to fight back.

Austin says he’s very happy to hear Olivia has come around, and is there for Leo. That little boy deserves the best chance he can get to have a great life. Olivia agrees, and says she’s committed to getting that for him. She just wishes she hadn’t thought the worst of Austin, and realizes now how lucky they all were that he spotted this and came forward. He says, no parent wants to hear that their child isn’t typical. There’s a pediatric neurologist at GH who’s so great. He’d be happy to give her an introduction. She says she already made an appointment online. She doesn’t want to waste any more time. He says he’s glad to hear that, and she says she’d like to make it up to him. He can join them for Thanksgiving; there’s going to be plenty of food. He shakes his head, and she says he doesn’t forgive her, and he says he can’t forgive her family for denying his father when he was alive, and again denying him after he was dead. He’s never going to forgive Brook for trying to sabotage his medical career, simply for trying to get Leo the help he needs.

Dante says it sounds like Sam didn’t have an easy childhood, but despite everything that happened, she showed love and compassion to Danny anyway. It shows what kind of person she is; a strong, fierce, independent, beautiful woman. She can think on her feet better than anyone he’s ever known. She slashed his tires to make sure he couldn’t follow her. She says he can chalk that one up to street smarts, and he says he’s grateful for her street smarts. She says, know what she’s grateful for? His openness. Even though Sonny is his father, Dante has managed to be able to be loyal Sonny and his job. He still somehow makes it work. When he runs off, she knows he’s not running off to start trouble; he’s running to stop it. That gives her peace. He says, that’s what he calls it too. She asks why her heart is beating so fast, and he says he was going to ask the same thing. They kiss, and Scout comes to the stairs, saying, the boys changed the movie.

Marshall says, Dr. TJ Marshall, and asks if TJ’s got a minute.

Curtis tells Portia, that man, if he’s his father, changed the course of his family’s lives when he disappeared. His mother became an invalid. Aunt Stella gave up the love of her life because they needed her. She taught him and Tommy how to shave. Despite all that love and strength aimed at them, they still felt the loss. They were different from the other kids who mentioned their fathers. There were always those kids with no fathers who were part of a sad club; they were members of that club. She says she’s so sorry, and Curtis says, he allowed that to happen to his family. He stayed away for decades. Now he wants to swoop back in, like some conquering hero. He saved one night at the club. What does Marshall expect from him? To welcome him with open arms – gee, pop, it’s good to see you. Not gonna happen. She says she can see why he sent Marshall away, and she hates that Marshall brought up all of this for him. He says he hates that he was reminded of it, and hates how it still eats at him. Marshall did this to him, and he doesn’t want Marshall in his life. He wishes Marshall hadn’t come back, if Marshall is even his father. She asks if he checked Marshall out, and he says he did a quick internet search. No Marshall Ashford matched his description. She says, they both know you can dive deeper than an internet search, and he says, he could. She says, but he doesn’t want to, and he says he doesn’t know what he wants to do about Marshall. He’s been kind of paralyzed since Marshall dropped his big announcement. His head’s been spinning with memories and realizations, and of course (🍷) questions. She asks if he’s reached out to Stella, but he says, no. She’s still recovering from her stroke, and this is the kind of news that could be too much of a shock to her. He does know Stella would never lie about their father to him and Tommy, ever. So he doesn’t want to risk upsetting her. She says, that’s very wise, but what about TJ? Marshall approached TJ before; he could do it again. He says he was thinking about that, but he hasn’t told TJ because he was sorting out his own thoughts. She’s right. He should give TJ a heads up. He’d hate for this Marshall guy to catch TJ off-guard like he did him.

TJ says he remembers Marshall. Marshall disappeared on him. How does Marshall know his nickname? Marshall asks if that’s not the abbreviation for Thomas Jr., and TJ asks if Marshall looked him up or something. What’s going on? Is he ill? TJ is getting off his rotation, but can make sure the attending sees Marshall. Marshall says, he’s not sick. He didn’t need medical care the last time he came to see TJ. TJ asks, then why did he come? Why is he here now? Marshall tells him, like he said, he came to see TJ.

Chase tells Finn, he knows Valentin is hurt and angry; who wouldn’t be? As for the Q’s, he’ll just have to face the music, and get through it. What else can he do? Finn says, good luck with all that. It’s going to be one hell of a Thanksgiving dinner. At least he can spend the day with his baby girl. He can’t believe he’s saying that. Chase is going to be an amazing father. He sees how Chase is with Violet, who adores him. Chase thanks him for the vote of confidence. Like he said, he’s already lived with Bailey, so he has a head start. Finn says, he must have felt a connection all along; something deep inside. Chase says, now that Finn mentions it, totally. Finn says, when Chase feels the time is right, they’ll get Violet together with her cousin. It’s one more thing to be happy for today. Chase says he has to get going, and Finn tells him, good luck with the Quartermaines, although it’s Brook who did Chase wrong. It’s hard to be angry when he has that baby girl in his life. Chase says, yeah, happy Thanksgiving, and jets. Finn watches him go down the hall, and says, happy Thanksgiving.

Ned says, the whole family will be here today, and Brook says, so? He asks what she’s going to tell them. There’s going to be a million questions. And what about the fact that Chase had a thing for her, and married Willow. And he never suspected that Bailey was his daughter. Brook says, if he remembers, Chase was nearly poisoned to death; he had bigger fish to fry. Ned can’t possibly blame Chase. He says he can and he does. It takes two to make a baby. Maybe Chase didn’t know because he didn’t want to know. He was too busy chasing Willow to step up and be a father. Or too busy snooping around there doing Austin’s biding. He’s not buying it.

Olivia says, Brook honestly thought Austin was using her son. She was just trying to protect the family, that’s all. Austin tells her, like he said, he’s really glad Leo is getting the help he needs; that’s the only thing that’s important. She agrees, but what’s done is done. Can’t he let this thing with Brook go? He says he can try, and she says, great. And the offer still stands if he changes his mind. She leaves, and Finn comes by. He asks Austin, why the long face? and Austin says, sometimes the only way to turn a frown into a smile is the satisfaction of payback. Finn says, okay. He was going to convince Austin to join them, but perhaps alone in front of the TV is a better alternative.

Brook says Ned is projecting his anger at her onto Chase. Go ahead, be mad at her; she’s used to it. He says he’s mad at both of them. It was reckless, thoughtless, and selfish, and now she expects him to sweep up the mess, and act like nothing ever happened. She says she knows it’s Thanksgiving, but don’t go all puritan on her. He’s not exactly a saint himself. He says he’s not pretending to be, unlike her wonderful guy Chase. She says, for the last time, it’s not Chase’s fault. The doorbell rings, and Ned opens the door to Chase, who says, happy Thanksgiving. He brought dessert.  

Portia says, Curtis is going through a lot right now. She just wants him to know that her home is open to him. Whenever he needs her, she’ll be there. And if he changes his mind about Thanksgiving, she’ll be there with food, and a bunch of people who love and appreciate him. He says he can’t believe he tried to push her away. Talking to her was the best decision he could have made. He’s not sure if he’ll make it tonight, but he’s sure he’s grateful for her. He considers her among his blessings. They kiss.

Marshall asks if there’s someplace they can talk private, TJ isn’t sure he wants to do that. He doesn’t know who Marshall is, and he was asking a lot of questions about TJ and his uncle. He doesn’t know what this is, but he’s really not up for it. He’s had a really long night, and has somewhere to be later. Marshall says he doesn’t blame TJ for being suspicious; Curtis was the same way. Just give him a few minutes, and he promises to explain. It would mean the world to him.

Dante tells Scout not to worry. He’ll handle the boys. He promises she’ll get to watch the rest of Kristina Comes Home for Christmas. He takes her hand, and says, come on; we’ll show them. They go upstairs, and Sam breathes in the scent of Dante’s scarf. There’s a knock at the door, and when Sam opens it, a clean-shaven Drew is there.

On Monday, Portia wonders if Curtis needs back up; Valentin says, out with the old and in with the new; Chase wonders if this is a bad idea; and Sonny tells someone, long time no see.

Winter House

When we last left this bunch of miserable people, Ciara had asked if Austen kept in touch with his ex, the even-worse- than-all-of-them-put-together Madison. Austen said they didn’t talk. He didn’t want Ciara to think he was hiding anything, but Madison was literally on the cover of a tabloid, and that sh*t wasn’t easy. He didn’t want it to affect what he thought they had going on. In Ciara’s interview, she said he’d been insanely honest, and it was all she could ask. Apparently, her bar is set low. Craig asked if it bothered Lindsay that Austen was totally into Ciara, and she said, no, then jumped Jason’s bones. Ciara and Austen when to look at her ski outfit in the closet, and never came out. What is wrong with these people, playing 7 Minutes in Heaven at age 45 35 30 or somewhere around there?

There was one day left of vacation, and I was begging for it to end. Okay, I’ve begged for it to end since the first episode. Craig got a text from girlfriend Natalie that she’d gone out to dinner with Madison, and Austen was like, WTF? In Craig’s interview, he said it was insanity. Why would she go out to dinner with the same girl who’s called her a whore. We saw a clip from Watch What Happens Live, where Madison said Austen had slept with Natalie last summer, and she was now dating Craig. I’m not sure why that would determine Natalie to be a whore, but whatever. Craig felt this spoke to something in Natalie’s character that he hadn’t seen and couldn’t deal with. Austen went to Kyle, and said Ciara was a curveball he hadn’t expected, but he wasn’t in a place to be exclusive or give himself completely to someone. In his interview, Austen said that before he left, Madison had come to his house, kissed him on the cheek, and told him not to forget about her. Ugh. I’m not an Austen fan, but no one deserves that horrible woman in their life. He said it was next level manipulation, and he’d tried to cut ties. He wished it was a year from now, and said it showed timing was everything.  

It had gotten warm out, and Austen said skiing in the spring was the bee’s knees, since he walked out of the 1920s. Luke’s igloo had melted, which made him sad, and we flashed back on Luke’s building skills. Everyone dressed all weird in tutus and neon and mullet wigs, looking like they were going to an 80s dance party. Or fitness class. Lindsay asked what Austen had wanted to cry to her about, but he said he was good. Lindsay told Amanda what Austen had said. She didn’t think he was over his ex enough to start something else. Jason and Lindsay agreed they on the same page, but everyone else wasn’t. It was unclear whether they meant the other couples weren’t on the same page as each other, or everyone wasn’t on their page. In Jason’s interview, he said meeting Lindsay had been unexpected, but welcome. She was wild and confrontational, but better too much than not enough. He didn’t think it was a vacation fling, and was to be continued. My guess is, it’s going to get old real fast.  

Since Lindsay’s boobs were two years old, they decided to have a birthday party. In Craig’s interview, he said he was having a great time, and wasn’t excited to go back to Charleston. Finding out Natalie had dinner with Madison was evidence that Natalie wasn’t his person anymore. Luke retrieved his sap-catching bags from the trees, and said being in the city killed his soul. Amanda told Kyle about her conversation with Lindsay, and they speculated on what Austen wanted to tell Lindsay. Kyle said Austen and Ciara were separated by a couple of states, and Amanda said if Austen didn’t see a future, he should make that clear. Amanda said she didn’t want gossip be guessing what it was Austen wasn’t clear on, but they had to protect Ciara’s precious little heart.

Lindsay said she was obsessed with her own boobs, even though internet trolls said they were too far apart. It didn’t hurt that she had the nicest man in the world interested in her. Several of the guys dressed up in tutus and fake boobs, and Kyle laughed about Austen’s pierced ears. They played limbo until Kyle and Craig knocked it down. Amanda talked to Julia in the kitchen, telling her that Austen wasn’t interested in a long distance relationship. In Amanda’s interview, she said she felt like she’d been part of Ciara and Austen’s relationship from the beginning. She’d gone on their first date with them, and seen them blossom. They seemed absolutely perfect together. Which was a long way of saying she was sticking her nose where it didn’t belong. She cornered Austen, and said she didn’t want to go to Ciara without finding out the whole story. Austen told her that he wanted to say it as nicely as he could – it was none of her effing business. Amanda said Ciara was her business, and he said she needed to stay out of it. Amanda started crying, and whined that Austen was a POS. He told her, STFU, and Kyle made excuses that Amanda just cared about them, because he’s a busybody too. Amanda wailed to Ciara and Julia that she’d tried to do the right thing, Ciara was like, it’s cool, and said she’d talk to Austen. Austen said this wasn’t the way he’d wanted it to go, but Ciara said it was out there now, and why was he being defensive? He said he hadn’t come there with a bunch of friends who were all up in his business, and Ciara said Amanda was just concerned about her. She woudn’t be sleeping in his bed if she didn’t like him, and was scared something like this would happen. Austen said he wanted to see her as much as he could, and asked what her master plan was. She said she didn’t have one, and he said he didn’t either. He told her that he was drunk, and  they decided to table it for the night.

In Andrea’s interview, he said he’d come in texting two different girls, but after spending time with Paige, she was growing on him. He wanted her for himself. It was mercifully the last day, and everyone packed. Austen told Ciara that he didn’t think he was ready, and clearly had things he needed to work on with himself. He hoped they could plan on seeing each other. In Ciara’s interview, she said she hadn’t been planning on liking someone to this capacity. (Let me remind you, it’s been two and a half weeks, although it feels like years.) She said she was a hopeless romantic, and reality was hard right now. Andrea made plans with Paige, and in her interview, she said she knew this was going to happen. No one could spend 17 days straight with her, and not love her. In Gabby’s interview, she said she was glad she did it, but it was tough. At the end of the day, growth was better than a hook-up. She’d take what she could get. Ciara told Paige that she appreciated Austen’s honesty, but wondered why she always picked the ones who were emotionally unavailable. They agreed they needed a vacation after the vacation.  

Paige’s parents picked her up, and Andrea helped her move a million boxes of stuff out. For two and a half weeks? She introduced him, and he made it clear they would be seeing each other. Ciara told Austen that she knew he wasn’t ready to date, but they could still be friends that kiss occasionally. In Austen’s interview, he said it had been an amazing couple of weeks. If Ciara was okay with him not being able to fully commit, then he fully welcomed her suggestion. With that, Kyle closed the door. No one will be missed.

At the end, we saw Paige and Andrea kissing in an elevator, and it said, coming soon on Summer House. Omg, it’s like a roach motel.

🏚 No Big Chill Here…

Who zoomed who after Kyle closed the door.

https://screenrant.com/winter-house-austen-kroll-ciara-miller-romance/

https://www.eonline.com/news/1310969/just-how-serious-are-winter-house-couple-paige-desorbo-craig-conover-hear-her-answer

🧲 Like a Bad Penny…

Juicy Joe puts on the gloves.

https://www.eonline.com/news/1310507/joe-giudice-is-fighting-to-return-to-the-u-s-after-italy-deportation

📺 For Your Viewing Pleasure…

If the parade is your jam:

https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/macys-thanksgiving-day-parade-2021-preview-new-york/index.html

If you want to move on quickly:

https://www.tvinsider.com/1022619/christmas-movies-tv-thanksgiving-weekend-2021/

If a binge is more your style:

https://www.tvinsider.com/1023126/thanksgiving-tv-marathons-2021/

Happy Thanksgiving

🍇 Quotes of the Week

Gratitude is when memory is stored in the heart and not in the mind. – Lionel Hampton

Be thankful for everything that happens in your life; it’s all an experience. – Roy T. Bennett

The turkey. The sweet potatoes. The stuffing. The pumpkin pie. Is there anything else we all can agree so vehemently about? I don’t think so. – Nora Ephron

If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the eons, it’s that you can’t give up on your family, no matter how tempting they make it. – Rick Riordan

Showing gratitude is one of the simplest yet most powerful things humans can do for each other. – Randy Pausch

Give thanks for a little, and you will find a lot. – Hausa Proverb

It is not joy that makes us grateful; it is gratitude that makes us joyful.David Steindl-Rast

 Be thankful for what you have. Your life is someone else’s fairy tale. – Wale Ayeni

We should certainly count our blessings, but we should also make our blessings count. – Neal A. Maxwell

What if today, we were just grateful for everything?Charlie Brown

💋 Thankful For You…

No matter why you come here – to get details to settle an argument; to find out what went on when you couldn’t watch; to drink some tea, or glean some wise words; or even just to see if I misspelled something or got it wrong – I’m thankful you came, and hopeful you return. I hope wherever you’ve landed during these pandemical times, you’re making lemon drops out of lemons. Wishing you the happiest of Thanksgivings, whether you spend it with family, friends, or with your cat. (Hey, I’ve done that, and it’s not bad. Unless your cat steals that turkey leg you were thawing out.) Whether you’re talking turkey or not, stay safe, stay grateful & stay not envisioning a Norman Rockwell Thanksgiving. I doubt even Norman had one.

November 23, 2021 – The Excavation Team Looks For Jason, Hospital Exit, Remembering OLTL, NYC Woman, Bad Behavior, All About the Parade & Macy’s

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Sasha tells Dr. Navarro, their son is in an incubator and can’t be moved, right? Which means they have to go to him. She asks Brando to get her a wheelchair, and he says, she can’t even sit up right now. She says she’ll do whatever it takes to be with her son, but Dr. Navarro says, that’s not the problem. In her post-operative condition, she can’t visit the NICU right now. She needs time to heal first. Sasha says her baby needs his mother, but the doctor says, he needs his mother to be healthy and whole for what’s to come.

Gladys asks Maxie if that’s Sasha’s room, and Maxie says, Brando is with her, and they’re talking to Sasha’s doctor. Gladys stands outside the door, and Dr. Navarro says she knows it’s hard, but she strongly advises Sasha to use this time to rest. Gather her strength, so when she’s cleared to visit her son, she’ll be prepared. Brando says, prepared for what exactly?

Carly runs into the hospital and finds Sonny. She thanks him for calling her, and asks how Sasha and the baby are. He says, Sasha is out of surgery, and recovering in the ICU, and Carly says she doesn’t understand. Last she heard, everything was fine. How did he hear Sasha and the baby were rushed into surgery?

At the reception desk, Epiphany tells Valentin that the doctor wants him to spend one more night for observation, but he says he’s going to take care of himself; effective immediately. She says, that would be an ill-advised decision, but it’s his choice. He’s going to have to sign a form saying he’s leaving against medical advice. He tells her to give him the form, and she says, fine. Wait here. He asks her not to take too long, and she gives him a look. Nina comes along, and gives Valentin a hug. She asks why he’s leaving, and he says he has to move out of the Quartermaine mansion, and find the strength to say goodbye to his daughter one last time.

As they walk in, Chase asks if Brook doesn’t think it’s a little sacrilegious to hatch a plot in a chapel, and she says, a non-denominational chapel. He asks what that means, and she says they need place to talk away from Valentin. He says he’s listening, and she says, enough of his self-assured, nothing bothers you attitude. Does he have any idea what he’s gotten himself into, pretending to be Bailey’s father? If the truth is found out, he’ll have two enemies – Valentin and Peter.

Anna asks if she can call Maxie back; she’s in the middle of something. Maxie says, Peter just called her. He promised he was going to see her soon. Anna says, they have Peter in custody, and Maxie asks if she’s sure he’s in custody. Anna says, he’s in handcuffs, and waiting to be transferred back to Port Charles to stand trial. Maxie asks if Anna is saying it’s really over, but Anna says, it’s not over yet.

Obrecht examines Drew, and Britt says, let her know when she’s done. She wants to make sure Obrecht’s stitches didn’t open up when she fell in the tunnel. Obrecht says, she’s fine, but Britt is going to have to recite the alphabet backward to make sure she doesn’t have a concussion. Britt says, Z, Y, X, W, V. Is that enough? Obrecht says, for now, and asks if Drew has any other injuries he needs to tell her about. He says, just what she saw. The last time she examined him was when Peter wanted to make sure he was in tip-top shape to kidnap Maxie. She says, thankfully, that plan never materialized, and Britt says, Maxie’s safe, but at what cost to Jason?

Maxie asks, what about Liesl and Britt? Has Anna seen them? Anna says she’s with them now; they’re fine. Maxie says, thank God. She knew Jason wouldn’t let anything happen to them. She thanks Anna for bringing Peter to justice, and Anna says she owed it to Maxie; it’s long overdue. Maxie asks her to thank Jason and Britt for her too, and asks when they’re coming home. Anna says, the situation is quite fluid right now. She’ll be able to have a longer conversation when she gets back. All she wanted was to keep Maxie safe. Maxie hangs up, and sees a text from Brook, saying, must talk. 911. Where are you?

Nina tells Valentin that she doesn’t understand. Is he sending Charlotte to boarding school? He says, not Charlotte, and she asks, what’s going on with Bailey? He says, she’s not his, and Nina asks, what makes him say that? He says, Brook lied to him, and she says, he must be devastated. He says, Brook used Bailey as a bargaining chip to get her ELQ shares back. It was nothing more than an elaborate ruse to get back in her father’s good graces. Nina says, Brook actually said that? and he tells her, she said a lot of things, but it was about ELQ, plain and simple.

Brook asks if Chase has any idea what he signed up for, and he says he wasn’t thinking long term; he was thinking on the fly. She says, until they know Peter’s not a threat anymore, he’s going to have to continue with the fly. He’s going to have to tell everyone. Is he ready to tell his parents that they’re going to be grandparents again? He’s going to have to tell Finn, and how about Willow? It’s not the first time he’s had to tell a lie for the greater good. He says, and the lie worked. It kept Nelle from getting custody of Wiley. She asks if he’s ready to tempt fate again, when her phone dings. She says, Maxie is freaking out about something. She wouldn’t blame Chase if he didn’t want to take this charade any further. Maybe they should go back to Valentin, tell him the truth, and beg for his help. Then Chase wouldn’t have to be part of the charade, and get in any deeper.

Nina asks if Valentin is sure it’s about ELQ; maybe there’s another reason. He says, like what? and she suggests giving Brook the benefit of the doubt. Even his biggest detractors have to admit he’s an amazing father to Charlotte. Maybe the biological father isn’t a good guy. Could that be the reason Brook lied to him? He says, no, because Chase is the real father. Chase told him, and Brook confirmed it.

Carly tells Sonny, if there’s a problem with Sasha and the baby, Brando must be losing his mind. Sonny is the only family Brando has in town besides Gladys, so of course (🍷) Brando reached out to him. Maxie walks past, and Sonny asks, what’s the latest? Carly asks if the baby is okay, and Maxie says, which baby? Carly says, Sasha and Brando’s baby, and Maxie says, of course (🍷). She’s sorry; she has a lot going on. Sasha had a baby boy, and needed an emergency C-section. She’s fine, but the baby is in the NICU. Her phone dings, and she says she’s sorry. That’s all she knows. She walks the other way, and Sonny wonders if it’s just him, or was Maxie all over the place? Carly is sure all this reminded Maxie of the trauma surrounding Louise’s birth. He says it reminds him of what they went through with Donna, and she says, she’ll never forget, but like Sasha, she had one advantage Maxie doesn’t. He asks, what’s that? and she says, a loving, supportive partner by her side.

Elizabeth tells Gladys that she can go in; she knows Gladys is family. Gladys thanks her, but says she doesn’t want to intrude. The doctor sounds so serious. That’s never good, right? Elizabeth goes in, and Brando asks if she’s seen their baby. Sasha asks, how is he? and Elizabeth says, he’s currently in an incubated on a ventilator to assist with breathing. He also has an umbilical line to administer steroids and antibiotics. Brando says, that’s standard procedure in the NICU, right? Because babies are born with under developed lungs all the time. Dr. Navarro says, in this case, it’s not a question of lung capacity. During the placental disruption, their son was deprived of oxygen, and in some babies, that can result in <insert medical term here>, a condition that, depending on the severity, causes disabilities, brain damage, and in some cases, death. Elizabeth says, those are worst case scenarios; they don’t have all the answers. Dr. Navarro says, Dr. Fleming and the wonderful team in the NICU have started a very advanced treatment called hypothermic therapy, which calms the baby down, and has been shown to give the brain an opportunity to slow brain cell damage. Sasha cries, and Elizabeth says, they need to think positively. Sasha asks how she can think anything positive when her baby is hurting, and it’s all her fault?

Sasha says she must have missed a sign, or ignored a symptom, but Dr. Navarro says she’s not to blame. There’s nothing Sasha could have done to prevent what happened. Her placenta separated from her uterus, a completely involuntary medical condition. Sasha says she felt a twinge or something. She definitely knew she wasn’t comfortable, and didn’t reach out to the doctor. Brando tells her to listen to Dr. Navarro. She didn’t know this was going to happen. He’s not going to let her blame herself. Elizabeth says, and most discomfort during pregnancy is harmless. The doctor says Elizabeth is correct. It’s possible what Sasha felt had nothing to do with the abruption. They need to focus on the next steps, when the hypothermia treatment concludes. Brando asks how long it takes, and she says, it can take up to 72 hours. Once it’s done, Dr. Fleming will order an EEG to determine brain function. Brando can visit the NICU now, and if Sasha is strong enough in the morning, she can be wheeled down to see her son. She’ll check in on Sasha later. She leaves, and Elizabeth asks Sasha to listen to her. She knows as moms it’s easy for them to blame themselves, but Sasha  did everything right. She went to her doctor’s appointments, she had bloodwork done, she went on bedrest when she was told to. No one has a crystal ball. Sasha says, so all they can do now is wait? and Brando says, wait, and pray.

Anna says, the excavation team has landed, and they’re headed to the tunnels. Drew says he wants to help, and Britt says, her too, but Anna says, it’s too crowded and dangerous for them to go down there. This is a highly trained team, and they’re equipped with the latest technology. The best thing they can do for Jason is stay out of their way. There’s going to be a formal debriefing with the WSB, but before that happens, she needs to know what the hell went on down in those tunnels. Obrecht says, Peter activated Drew, and when Jason and Drew were fighting, Peter dragged her and Britt into those unstable tunnels, and then got lost. Anna says, by activated, she means conditioning? and Drew says, Peter used Faison’s old shortcut. Anna asks what he had Drew do, but Drew has no idea. The first time was in Crete, and he came to in his cell, grazed by a bullet and bleeding. Anna thinks he sustained the injury during the assassination attempt, and he asks how she knows. She says, she was the target.

Maxie walks into the chapel, and says, please tell her Gladys… She stops, and says, Chase. If he doesn’t mind, she’d like to speak to Brook in private. Brook says, if it’s about Bailey, anything Maxie has to share with her, she can say in front of Chase. He knows everything.

Nina says, Brook told Valentin that Chase was Bailey’s biological father? and he says, yes. She says she’s so sorry; she knows how painful it is. He says he knows she does, because she knows what it’s like to love someone like a daughter, and find out she was deceived, because he did that to her. Call it karma or poetic justice, but what he inflicted on her, Brook inflicted on him. She has every right to gloat.

Sonny says he’s happy that Donna has so much strength and is so healthy, and Carly says, they’re so lucky. She prays the same for Brando and Sasha; that whatever comes their way, they can weather it together as a team. Sonny says, they did it, and she says, they did. She knows it’s a weird time, but they didn’t get to finish their conversation earlier about Nina, and there’s something she needs to say.

Sasha says, she knows she and Brando haven’t taken the most conventional route as a couple, and there’s still so much they don’t know about each other, but he never struck her as the praying type. He says he guesses he’s old enough to admit there are things in the universe he doesn’t understand. Is there God? He doesn’t know, but he’s seen a rainbow after a storm. He’s seen some pretty awesome sunrises and sunsets. In Iraq, in the war, he saw some pretty awful things, but he also saw some of the most profound acts of human kindness. All this is a long way to say he doesn’t know what he believes, but he’ll consider anything that gets them a happy ending with their son. She says, her too. Does he think it’s possible? He says, an hour ago, he didn’t know if she and their son were going to make it. He never prayed like that, even in the war. Now she’s out of danger, and their son is alive. She tells him, people always say babies are resilient, and he says, Maxie was just telling him that James was born on the side of the road, and he’s fine now. Babies can have shaky starts and still grow into healthy strong kids. Their kid has their genes. She says, which makes him a fighter, and he says, damn right. She says, faith is not her strong suit. What if it’s not enough? He says, they have each other, and their son has them, not to mention some of the best medical care there is. Whatever the EEG tells them, he’ll be cherished and loved. If he needs a little help, they’ll provide that. There’s not a thing they can’t see him through. She says, what about what he needs right now? Being stuck in this bed, she can’t help feel… She cries, and he says, it’s okay. They’re in the same boat. They’re both first time parents, and their son is in trouble. Talk to him. She says she feels like she’s already a failure as a mother.

Nina says, when she found out Valentin hired Sasha to pretend to be her daughter, she was devastated. She was so angry and hurt, but she woudn’t wish that pain on anyone. She’s certainly not enjoying watching him lose his daughter. He says, because she’s a good person, but she says she’s done some things lately that make her question that. She does know one thing; when you’re driven by love, you’re pretty much capable of anything.

Carly says, she and Sonny have to resolve the issue of Nina. He referred to Nina as his friend, and she can’t tell him how bad it hurt her. He tells her that he didn’t exactly say that, and they sit down. She says she knows he was talking about his days in Nixon Falls when he was Mike. She wants him to know that she understands he had a life there, and it felt like home. He says, when he got his memory back, coming back there, they were his home; her, his kids, and his grandkids. She says she doesn’t want him to feel like he has to defend life he didn’t choose, but he has to understand she has a big problem with Nina, and what she did to him. She doesn’t want that to come across as her not trusting him. She has 100% faith that he’ll always do what’s best for their family. So as hard as it may be, if he feels what’s best for their family moving forward is for her to lay off Nina, she promises to do her best to try and respect that. He says, try? and she says, it’s her. He can’t expect miracles here. He says he knows it’s not easy. This whole thing… he just… He doesn’t want to talk about this anymore or fight about it. Can they not do that? She says she feels same way. She suggests they go find Sasha’s room, and see if there’s anything they can do for Sasha and Brando.

Maxie says, in this situation, Brook is going to need to define what everything is, and Chase says he knows Bailey isn’t Valentin’s daughter, or even Brook’s. She’s Maxie’s, and Maxie and Brook cooked up this plan to hide her in plain sight to protect her from her actual father, Peter August. Maxie says, sounds like everything, and Brook says, don’t look at her; she didn’t tell him anything. He figured it out on his own, and it’s a good thing. After Gladys came to tell Valentin she was deceiving him, she almost confessed everything. Thankfully, Chase walked in, and said he was the father. Chase says, the timing works. Brook was bunking with him around the time she supposedly got pregnant. Maxie says she needs a second to process this, and sits. She asks how Valentin took the news, and Brook says, how does she think he took it? He’s a wreck. He’s really angry at her for lying to him. Poor guy. Maxie says she knows how much love he has for her baby. Do they think he believed Chase is the baby’s father? Chase says, he seemed to. Chase even acted mad at Brook for lying to him. Maxie says, okay, good. Because now that Peter is coming back to Port Charles, they can’t take any chances. She called Anna, and she said Peter had been apprehended in Greece, and they were extraditing him to Port Charles. Chase says, then their problems are solved. With Peter in custody, Maxie can reveal Bailey is really Louise, and take her daughter back. Maxie says, as much as she wants that to happen, they can’t tell the truth about Bailey anytime soon.

Sonny and Carly see Gladys, and Sonny says, congratulations are in order. She’s a grandmother now. She says she hasn’t been able to see baby. She’s sure he’s beautiful; how could he not be? Carly asks if everything is okay. Did something happen to Sasha or the baby? Gladys says, Sasha is recuperating, but her grandson might not recover.

Valentin says, he wanted to protect what he and Nina had so much, that he ended up hurting her very, very badly. He doesn’t think he understood how much it hurt her to lose Sasha until now. And here she is, giving him a sympathetic ear. She’s just amazing. She says she doesn’t know about that. It’s easy to absolve someone when you realize you need absolution yourself. Maybe one day he’ll find it in his heart to forgive Brook’s deception about Bailey, the way her heart has forgiven him.

Maxie says, even though Peter is in custody, he doesn’t sound scared. He promised he’d be seeing her really soon. So she and her daughter are nowhere near safe. Chase says, she told them Peter is in WSB custody. He’s going to face charges in court. Maxie says, Peter has proved over and over again that he always eludes justice, but Brook says, try finding a jury in the state of New York that wouldn’t convict him. Maxie says, there’s one thing she’s learned from this nightmare, and that’s don’t count Peter out. Until he’s exhausted every legal challenge, and is in prison for life, she’s not comfortable revealing the truth about Bailey. Brook says, understood. What does she need from them? Maxie says, right now, she needs them both to be her daughter’s parents.

Britt suggests Obrecht call Scotty. She knows how badly he’d like to hear her voice, and know she’s coming home. Obrecht says, she will, but first, she wants Britt to tell her how she is. Britt says she’s fine, but Obrecht says she doesn’t have to put up a front for her; the stress must be affecting her. Britt lowers her voice, and says, if Obrecht is talking about Huntington’s, there’s no evidence that trauma causes early onset. Obrecht says she not talking about Britt’s physical condition. Not knowing whether Jason is dead or alive must be taking a toll on her emotions. Brit cries, and says, Jason was only there because she asked him for help. If he dies, how does she live with that?

Gladys tells Sonny, the door to Sasha’s room was open enough for her to hear what the doctor told them. She wants to be supportive to them, but they might think she’s overstepping; she knows she tends to do that. Sonny says, at least Gladys is here, and she’s thinking about them. Gladys says he doesn’t need to be so kind, given… everything. He says, hey, family’s family.

Brando says, Sasha didn’t fail their son. She took better care of herself than any mother. She bought books to read to him, put good things into her belly. The nursery she created, it’s so warm and cozy; it’s a child’s wonderland. She was a wonderful mother before their son was even born. She says she feels so helpless. She wants to hold their son so badly. She wants him to know his mother is there for him. She wants to protect him and comfort him. That’s her job. He says, that’s their job, and she asks if he’ll do something for her. He says, anything, and she says, go see their son. He says he wants to see their son, but he doesn’t want to leave her alone. He can text Maxie or Lucy… She says she’ll be fine, but their son needs at least one of his parents to be with him right now. The best thing he can do for her do right now is to do what she can’t. Go tell their son that she loves him.

Valentin thanks Nina for forgiving him. He was so caught up in his own stuff, he hasn’t seen her since she came back. Is she okay? She says, she’s good. She’s fortunate her return to Port Charles wasn’t met with a group of people carrying pitchforks. He says he can’t imagine her doing anything to deserve that. If she ever wants to talk about it… She thanks him, and says she might take him up on that, but tonight is about Sasha. She went into labor, had complications, and needed to have surgery, and that’s all she knows. He says, my God. He made this all about him. Go be with Sasha. He tells her that she set an example, taking the high road, and she says, he can do the same with Brook. At least she hopes he’ll try. She leaves, and Epiphany slams a clipboard on the desk next to Valentin, saying, was that fast enough for him? She keeps walking.

Brook says they have to decide how to break the news to everyone, and Chase says, he should probably act mad at her for a while. She asks if that’s really necessary, and he says, if she kept his baby a secret from him in reality, he’d be furious. She says, so he still has to be a liar in this scenario? and he says, in all fairness, she faked the pregnancy. She says, that’s true. So they’ll go with Valentin’s theory that she always knew Chase was the father, and pretended Valentin was the father to get back the ELQ stock. Maxie says, people will believe that, and Brook says she knows. Maxie says, please know she’s grateful to the both of them. It means everything to her to know she has at least some control over her child’s well-being, especially in light of everything going on with Sasha. Chase asks, what happened with Sasha? and Maxie says, she went into labor, but there were some complications. Chase says, she was so excited the last time he saw her, and asks if she’s okay. Maxie says, Sasha made it through the surgery, but she’s waiting for an update. Brook suggests they keep everything in perspective, and says, the most important thing is to keep Bailey safe from Peter. They can do this. Chase says, they can and they will.

Gladys sees Brando, and runs to him, saying, she was so worried. She hugs him, and Sonny asks how he’s holding up. Brando says, kind of numb actually. Sasha thought it was important that he see their son. He’s downstairs in the NICU. Gladys says she’ll go with him, and Carly asks, when was the last time Brando had something to eat or drink? He says he doesn’t know, and Carly says, then she’ll go to the cafeteria and get him something. She asks Gladys to come with her, since she knows all of Brando’s favorite things, and takes Gladys’s arm. Gladys says, he has to keep up his strength, and Carly tells Brando that she’s sending all of her love to his baby. Gladys lets Carly lead her away, and Sonny asks how Brando is feeling; talk to him. Brando says he’s scared, and Sonny says he wouldn’t be a father if he weren’t. He just has to get past all that. He’s got a brand new son coming into the world, who’s going to need his father and his love. Brando says, what if he doesn’t know what to do? and Sonny says, that’s just fear talking. When he sees that little boy, it will take care of everything. They hug, and Sonny says, got it? Brando says, yeah, and leaves. The elevator opens, and Nina goes to the reception desk. She tells Elizabeth, she’s there about Sasha Gilmore. She knows Sasha gave birth, and needed surgery. Are there any updates? Elizabeth says, Nina knows she can’t give out confidential patient information, but Sasha is recovering in the ICU. Nina says, it’s that bad? How is Sasha? What about the baby? Can Sasha have visitors? Elizabeth says, only family right now, and Nina says, she and Sasha were family once. Please? Elizabeth says she’ll see what she can do.

Brando goes to the NICU, and Epiphany tells him to get dressed so he can meet his son.

Elizabeth asks how Sasha is doing, and if she’s in any pain. Sasha says, nothing physical. She supposes that’s because of the painkillers. Elizabeth says, if Sasha ever wants to talk mom to mom, she’s just one call button away. Sasha thanks her, and says, Elizabeth has been so kind to her. Elizabeth asks if she’s up for a visitor. She’s not family, but wants to see Sasha, and Elizabeth can look the other way. Nina stands in the doorway.

Epiphany tells Brando, she’s there to help. Does he have any questions? He asks if the baby is in any pain, but she says, no; he’s sedated. He asks if it will hurt if he touches the baby, but she says, it won’t hurt; go ahead and touch him. Talk to him. Let the baby know he’s there. If he’s been talking to Sasha’s stomach, the baby is already familiar with his voice. He goes to the incubator, and says, hello, son. I’m your dad. I’m here now.

Outside, Anna tells the excavation guy, run another scan. She goes back in, and Britt asks if the excavation team found Jason. Anna says, they penetrated the tunnel, using radar based technology, to search for a heartbeat. Drew asks what they found, and Anna says, there was no signal. Nothing. Obrecht says, maybe the equipment was faulty, but Anna says, they have both audio and video devices. She’s really sorry, but there’s no sign of life in the tunnel where they last saw Jason. Britt looks out the window.

Maxie says, now that they’ve agreed on the best way to move forward, she’s going to see if she can get an update on Sasha. Chase says, keep them posted, please, and Maxie says, of course (🍷). She leaves, and Brook says, well, baby daddy, she thinks it’s time they told her family. He says, have fun with that, and she says, if he thinks she’s telling the Quartermaine clan herself, he has another thing coming. She can promise him one thing. It will be a helluva Thanksgiving.

Valentin asks if Maxie’s heard the news, and she says, about Peter’s capture? He says he figured Anna would reach out to her first, and she says, actually, Peter beat her to it. He used his one phone call on her, and promised he would see her real soon. He says he hopes she knows Anna would never let that happen, and she says she wishes she could wake up from this nightmare unafraid, but Peter’s pretty relentless. So far, he keeps evading justice. Valentin says, those days are over. Now Peter will pay the price for his actions. Maybe he’ll divulge some information on the fake nurse Chloe that will lead them to Louise. Whatever he can do to help, he’ll do. He knows now there is no greater pain than having a child ripped away from you.

Carly asks if Gladys and Sonny want to see if Sasha’s ready for visitors, but Sonny suggests they sit for a second. Elizabeth said it’s going to be a little more time, and Sasha’s going to get some rest. Why doesn’t Carly give Gladys some pointers on how to be a grandmother? His grandson Wiley adores Carly, just like Gladys’s grandson is going to adore her. He’s going to think she’s irreplaceable.

Sasha tells Nina, she doesn’t know if it’s in her head, but she keeps hearing babies crying. How will she know his cry? Nina holds Sasha while she cries.

Brando tells the baby that he has a message from his mom. He opens the hatch, and touches the baby. He says, she already loves him more than anything. So does he.

Tomorrow, TJ asks why Marshall is there now, Olivia tells Austin that she doesn’t want to waste more time, and Ned asks if Brook is going to tell him who the father is.

⚾️ Another One Out…

Looks like Jason might be staying under that rubble for a while.

https://people.com/tv/steve-burton-out-at-general-hospital-after-refusing-to-comply-with-covid-vaccine-mandate/

🎬 End Of Life…

I recall the end of OLTL too. <SOB!> Even though their characters changed on GH, Kristen Alderson’s final scene with Roger Howarth was made all the more poignant because they really were saying goodbye after a long working relationship.

🗽 Roxy Rocks NYC…

I met her years ago. She was funny and very down-to-earth. This is exactly how I would have pictured her home.

Tripping…

I don’t know if it’s going to be an ongoing thing, but Bravo showed the premiere episode at 8 pm tonight (Tuesday). Since that’s a bad time for me, I didn’t see much of it, but there was drama already. I don’t know why anyone should be surprised that Ramona acted like a brat. She’s been like that since forever.

🦃 That Time Again…

Everything you need to know about this year’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

https://www.macys.com/social/parade/

🌜 Wynken, Blynken, And Nodden Out…

Tomorrow, it’s a dose of soap and the horror show that is Winter House, which looks like it’s drawing to a close. It’s a short TV week for the usual, since GH will be airing a rerun on Thanksgiving – the February 5th episode – why, when they have a wealth of Quartermaine emergency pizzas? – and on Friday, it’s football. But no matter what’s on your viewing schedule, stay safe, stay aware that words hold power, and stay knowing that, although there are some pretty awful things in the world, there are also profound acts of human kindness.

November 19, 2021 – Sasha Is Rushed To the OR, Farewell Alice, Brad’s Back, Is It On, Christmas Soap, All Good, Begging, Bad Form, Support, Tripping, a Split, Side Hustle, New Tattoo, OctQuotes & Almost

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Sasha yowls in pain, and Brando says, she’s got this. Easy for him to say. He tells her, they’re going to be a family, and she says she likes the sound of that.

Elizabeth sees Dr. Navarro, and says she’s been trying to track the doctor down. It’s Sasha Gilmore. She’s worried something is seriously wrong. She and the doctor take off for Sasha’s room.

Willow is punching the heavy bag, when Michael comes into the gym. She says she was just working out, and he says he could see that, but he’s never seen her hit the heavy bag before. She says, it’s her first time. She didn’t know what she was missing. Punching things can be fun. She hits it again.

Chase has a drink at Charlie’s, and flashes back on his conversation with Brook at Kelly’s; Brook explaining why she gave birth in a hotel. He says, the story doesn’t add up, and wonders what Brook is hiding.

Valentin tells Brook, if it was just him, fine. They could keep things the way they are. But there are two other people they have to think about; Charlotte and Bailey. For them, he needs to know. Bailey isn’t his, is she? Brook says, it’s so much more complicated than he thinks it is, and he says, she just has to look in his eyes and tell him Bailey is his daughter. She cries, and says she’s so sorry. She can’t.

Maxie leaves Brook a voicemail to call her back. She needs to know Gladys hasn’t ruined everything. Nina comes out of the elevator, and Maxie asks what she’s doing there. Nina says, Elizabeth tipped her off that Sasha was in labor. What is it? Is it the baby? Maxie says she doesn’t know anything about Sasha or the baby, and Nina says, then what is it? Maxie says, her, and her plan to protect Louise from Peter. It’s falling apart.

At Rice Plaza, Sonny tells Carly, don’t worry about it. It was an accidental meeting; no one got hurt. She says, not tonight, but he got hurt. So did she. They’re whole family was hurt. Doesn’t he get that? Why is he defending Nina? He says he’s not defending Nina. He knows everyone got hurt. He’s just preventing any more hurt now that it’s over. She says, it’s not over, and it’s never going to be over as long as there are no consequences for what Nina did. He gets that, right? Please help her understand here.

Obrecht asks Peter, at what point is he going to admit they’re hopelessly lost? He asks when she’s going to shut her mouth, and she says, so that’s a never? He says he knows what he’s doing, and Britt asks, what’s going on? Obrecht looks at the ceiling, and says, it’s dangerously unstable.

Jason tells Drew, they have a problem, and Drew says, just one? Jason says he’s seen the island from a satellite view, and knows the tunnels exist… Drew says, but as far as which ones he used… Jason says he has no idea where Peter went. Drew crouches down and looks at something. He points and says, they used this one. Jason asks how he knows, and Drew says, Jason might be an expert hitman, but he’s had a little experience tracking people during his time in the Navy. His contribution to this little adventure. Jason tells him, lead the way.

Obrecht says, one false move, or a particularly loud noise, and they’ll all be buried alive. Peter asks if her dire warnings are intended to discourage him, but she says, they’re intended to save his life. Britt tells him to listen to her mother. Peter might hate Obrecht, but he knows she’s smart. Obrecht thanks her, and Peter says, she’s determined to stop him. She’ll tell any lie to slow them down. Britt says, she’s not lying about the loose dirt. Think about it. This island belongs to the Cassadines. He says, so? and she says, so, they’re not well-known for planning. They want a tunnel, they dig a tunnel. They don’t think about shoring it up, or maintaining it for that matter. Obrecht says, the Cassadines came there during the Russian Revolution; this tunnel could be more than a hundred years old. Britt says she knows Peter is arrogant, but even he can’t argue with geology, and gravity. They have to leave.

On the phone, Chase says he knows he’s still on desk duty, but was hoping they could do him a solid, and look something up for him… Awesome. He needs the E-Z Pass record for Brook Lyn Quartermaine’s vehicle on May 27th of this year… Yeah, he’ll hold.

Brook says she’s so sorry she lied to Valentin, but he says he needs to hear her say the words. She says, Bailey isn’t his daughter. She never meant for this to go on for so long. He says for months and months and months she watched him pour his heart into that little girl. She says she’s sorry. She thought it would be over before Valentin fell in love with Bailey, and he says he was in love with her the moment he knew she existed. His child is everything to him. I don’t know if I’ve ever seen anyone look sadder than he looks right now.

Maxie tells Nina, and now, Gladys is going to open her big mouth and tell Valentin that Bailey isn’t his. Nina says, she could have told Maxie this wouldn’t end well, and Maxie says, too late. Nina says she’s sorry, and Maxie says, maybe there’s no reason to panic yet. Gladys doesn’t know everything. She doesn’t know Bailey is really Louise. Nina says, the crucial information is contained, and Maxie says, this could be a good thing, right? Nina was the one who tried to convince her to let Valentin in on the secret. He could actually be an ally. Nina says, she did, but… and Maxie says, she knows. It’s going to be a huge blow finding out Bailey isn’t his. Nina says, monumental, and Maxie says, after he processes it, and realizes she and Brook only did this to protect Louise from Peter, he’ll want to help her. He’ll understand. Wouldn’t it be great? Nina says it would, but she’s afraid it’s highly unlikely.

Sonny says, Carly has to understand. There’s been so much pain in their family in the last year… She says she knows, but the pain isn’t going to go away because Nina has a relationship with Wiley, and clearly, she’s going to stake her claim as his grandmother. So accidental or not, this just proves Michael was right to have charges pressed against Nina in Pennsylvania. Sonny says, if Michael had asked him, he would have said Michael was just making things more complicated. She says she doesn’t get it; this isn’t him. One thing they’ve always agreed on is, if someone comes at them, they’ll come back twice as hard to make sure nobody comes at them again. She’s not talking about sending a message. She’s talking about justice. Why would he deny himself or his family that kind of justice after what Nina did to him? He says, because if they destroy Nina, he would be denying who he had become.

Sasha squeezes Brando’s hand, and he tells her, just breathe. The doctor comes in with Elizabeth, and says she heard things are progressing in here. Brando says, looks like it, and Sasha says, feels like it too. Dr. Navarro says she’d like to run some tests, and do an ultrasound to see how things are going, and Sasha asks if everything is okay. The doctor says, that’s what she wants to confirm, and Brando says, whatever she thinks is best. Dr. Navarro asks Elizabeth to prep Sasha, and they leave. Brando tells Sasha, it’s going to be okay.

Drew says, it looks like they stood around for a while, and then met someone; there’s extra boot prints. Jason says, they probably picked up a guard, and Drew says they have a problem. This tunnel is in really bad shape. Jason says he noticed, and Drew says, loud noises, like, let’s say, gunfire, up the chances of a total collapse. Every gunshot is going to make this place more unstable.

Michael asks Willow, what brought on the sudden urge to go at the bag like that? He thought she was taking Wiley to the Fall Fair in Rice Plaza. She says she did take him. That’s what brought on the sudden desire for a workout. Nina was there. He asks if Nina approached her, but she says, Wiley made the first move. He saw her, wanted to go to her, and she let him. Go ahead. Tell her how much he hates that. He says he hates the idea of Nina being anywhere near their son, but he wasn’t there, so… She says, thank you. She tried keep it lowkey. She and Wiley had a hot chocolate with Nina, then she sent Wiley off with Cindy, who he knows from daycare at the hospital. When she and Nina were alone, she told Nina that she hates what she did, and didn’t think she should see Wiley for the time being, but she wasn’t going to confuse Wiley by dragging him away, and punishing him for Nina’s bad choices. He asks how Nina took it, and she says, Nina was appropriately remorseful. At the same time, she doesn’t think Nina even begins to grasp how selfish and horrible she was, or how much damage she’s done. When Cindy brought Wiley back, all she wanted to do was take him home, and just as they were saying their goodbyes, Carly showed up and jumped to the wrong conclusion. He asks, how wrong? and she says, Carly was going to call the cops on Nina for stalking Wiley. He says, go, mom, since he’s a big jerk, and Willow says, no. He says he knows it made a bad situation worse, but he can enjoy the fantasy, can’t he? She says, sure; he can enjoy it. He wasn’t the one in the middle of Rice Plaza, trying to stop his mom from having Nina dragged away in handcuffs in front of Wiley. She needs more time on the heavy bag. He says, actually, he has a better idea.

Dr. Navarro does the ultrasound, and says, looks like it’s time to get moving. She tells Elizabeth to have the OR prepped right away, and Brando asks if something is wrong. Sasha asks if there’s something wrong with the baby, and the doctor says they need to prep her for an emergency C-section. Sasha says, no, she’s fine, but then cries out in pain. Dr. Navarro says she knows it wasn’t their plan, and under normal circumstances, they’d do everything they could to avoid surgery, but she’s having pain from a placental disruption, and the baby needs to come out now.

Chase sees Bobbie come into Charlie’s, and says, it’s good to see her. She asks him to excuse her for making a beeline to the coffee, but she’s headed to Rice Plaza. She just came off a double-shift at GH. Where everyone is raving about his wife, by the way. He says he thinks she means ex-wife, and she says, that’s why she needs caffeine; she’s so sorry. He tells her, that’s okay, and she says, clearly, her mind isn’t as sharp after a long day. For the record, she loves that Willow makes Michael happy, but she hates that he got hurt in the process. He’s a good man, and he’s been a particularly good friend to Maxie and Lulu. He says he hopes the coffee works its magic, and she goes to the bar to order a large coffee to go. His phone dings, and he looks at it, and says, Beecher’s Corners? What’s she doing there? Bobbie says, she doesn’t know who he’s referring to, but Beecher’s Corners happens to be a lovely place. He says, she’s been? and she says, right before Memorial Day.

Brook says she knows Valentin is upset; he has every right to be. He tells her, don’t tell him how to feel, and identify. I hate when people do that. She says he has to understand; this was never her intention. He says he doesn’t care about her intentions. This is where they are now. When he thinks about the sleepless nights, and the stories they shared… She says, that was real, and he asks, how was it real? She says, because it happened, and he says she’s not who he thought she was. He doesn’t even know what she is. She watched as he bonded with this child. His twelve-year-old daughter thinks she has a sister, and for what? Some stock? The Brook he thought he knew would have never done that. She says, she didn’t.

Maxie says, Nina was the one who advocated for Maxie to tell the truth. Nina says, she did. If Maxie had told him months ago when she said that, she’s sure Valentin would have been supportive. Not only would he have kept the secret, he would have made sure it was airtight, but they made him fall in love with that baby… Just like she made Sonny fall in love with her. Maxie says, not ideal or advised, but when it comes to the truth, isn’t it better late than never? Nina tells her, that’s what people say, tell the truth, but she learned the hard way, they’re only talking about the immediate truth. Hidden truths become secrets, and those only leave pain and chaos in their wake.

Carly says she wants to understand what Sonny is going through, but he has to walk her through it. How can Nina facing justice for what she did to their family, be denying who he’s become? He closes his eyes for a moment, and says, he was gone for nine months, and at that time, he was living another life; they both were. He can’t just believe it’s going to go back to normal, and nothing’s changed. It’s hard for him. She says, things have gone back to normal. They’re the same people they were; they’re the same couple. He says, for the better part of a year, he was another person, and that time doesn’t just vanish from his mind. In Nixon Falls, he didn’t know about Sonny Corinthos, but here he knows he was Mike, and Mike’s still part of him. For nine months, what kept him alive, centered, and safe was the friendships he had with Lenny, Phyllis, and Nina. He just can’t change the fact that up until a couple weeks ago, Nina was… the one friend he had in the whole world.

Chase asks if Bobbie was in Beecher’s Corners on vacation, and she says she supposes there’s no reason to be keeping it a secret at this point. She was supposed to meet Maxie there. He says, like a final hoorah before he baby was born? but she says, not exactly. Maxie had figured out the truth about Peter, but she knew if she tried to end the relationship, there would be… issues. He says, that’s putting it mildly, and she says, Maxie asked her there in a professional capacity. He says, as a nurse? and she says, yeah. The plan was for her to deliver Maxie’s baby in secret.

Brook said this took her by surprise too, but Valentin tells her not to compare their experiences; they’re nothing alike. She says she’s just trying to explain herself. It started off with, oops, I’m pregnant, and Valentin thinks he’s the father. He says, she led him to believe he was the father, and she says, she did something she’s not proud of. She used the situation to her advantage so she could get ELQ back. She was clueless. She had no idea how he’d be as a father or as a partner. She thought he’d just give her child support and leave. He says, which, if she’d accepted, would have been fraud, but go ahead. She asks if he remembers how opposed she was to him moving in. Why does he think that was? What started off as a stupid means to an end, ended up with him and his daughter moving in with her family; their family. The four of them. She thought, what was she doing? but it was too late. Then Gladys found out the truth and started blackmailing her. She had no choice. She never intended to hurt him.

Obrecht tells Peter, congratulations; this is new. She doesn’t suppose Peter knows where they are. He says, for the millionth time, stop talking, or he will kill one of them. Britt asks Obrecht to stop antagonizing Peter, but Obrecht says she’s not; she’s telling him the truth. This whole place could come crumbling down at any time, and this dummkopf is leading us nowhere. Brittwas right; they must turn back. Peter says, no. They’re getting the hell out of here, going to the harbor, and getting on a boat. Then they’re going to the rendezvous point where Drew will be bringing Maxie to him. Drew says, that’s not going to happen, and Peter sees Drew in front of him. holding a gun aimed at him.   

Dr. Navarro explains that the placenta is separating from the uterus. Sasha says, when? and the doctor guesses it happened when her water broke. Sasha says, the placenta is how the baby eats and gets oxygen, and Dr. Navarro says that’s why they have to do the C-section. Brando asks if their son is okay, and the doctor says they’re doing everything int their power to make sure of that. She tells Sasha that they’ll give her an epidural, but she’ll be conscious, and Sasha says, just take care of the baby. The doctor says, the plan is to take care of both of them, and Sasha is wheeled out. Brando says, the doctor made a point of saying both of them. Is Sasha in trouble too? Level with him. Is Sasha’s life at risk too? She says, it’s too early to say, but a hemorrhage could be a complication, which is why they can’t waste time, She jets, and Brando follows.

Nina says, maybe it would help if she went with Maxie, and Maxie says, as in, he might go easier on her? Nina says, well, he won’t kill her because there’s a witness. It’s possible. They see Sasha being wheeled to the OR, and go over to Brando. Nina asks if Sasha is okay, but he says, no. She could lose the baby and he could lose them both. Nina and Maxie hug him.

Peter asks what the hell Drew is doing here, and Drew says he’s taking Britt and her mother off this island, but if he kills Peter in the process, that’s just a bonus. Peter moves for his own gun, and Drew shoots him in the arm. Jason joins them, and there’s gunfire between them and the guards, Britt and Obrecht ducking down. There’s one guard remaining, and he puts up his hands. Drew asks how Jason wants to handle him, and asks the guard if what Peter is paying him is worth dying for. The guard throws his gun down, and Drew tells him, get out. He wisely does, and Jason asks if they’re okay. Britt says, they are now, and runs to Jason, hugging him. She steps away and says, that’s a perfectly normal response; she’s happy he’s not dead. Drew asks, where’s Peter? but he’s gone.

Michael wears punching mitts, while Willow punches, and she says she hates being stuck in the middle. It would be so much easier if Nina moved far away, like New Zealand, or at least California. He says, prison works, but she says, even if Nina goes to prison, she’ll still have legal rights as Wiley’s grandmother. He says, it will be hard exercise those rights in prison, but she says, Nina has money and lawyers, and if she lands in prison, she’ll have nothing but time. Think about it. Does he really want to take Wiley to visit Nina in some prison visiting room? He says, of course (🍷) not, and she says, the fact is, Nina will always be Wiley’s grandmother, unless she chooses to sever those ties. An all-out visitation war over Wiley can only hurt him. For Wiley’s sake, she just wants to find a way for them to co-exist. Is that so impossible to understand? he says he does understand; he just doesn’t agree. Willow throws some more punches.

Chase says, Maxie didn’t want to have her baby in the hospital? and Bobbie says, it wasn’t so much about the venue . He says, because of Peter, and she says, Peter was watching her like a hawk at the time. Her guess is, Maxie wanted to keep her options open. He says, her guess? and she says, all Maxie told her was that she was determined not to let Peter raise her baby. So if that meant going on the run or putting Louise up for adoption… The best laid plans, right? All that strategizing to try and keep Peter away from her baby, and now Maxie has no idea where she is. She tells Chase, it’s good to see him, but she’s got to go. Bobbie leaves, and the wheels turn in Chase’s head.

Valentin cries, and says he’s devastated. He just doesn’t know how else to put it. He loves Bailey so completely, and if he’s not her father, what does he do with that? He wanted to watch her grow up so bad. Brook says he can still do that, and he says, as what? He’s not her father. He wonders how he’s going to tell Charlotte, and she says, they’ll do it together, but he says, no! He doesn’t want her anywhere near his daughter. She says, please, and he says, let him and Charlotte mourn what she’s stolen from them, and then he’ll mourn her too. This is heartbreaking.

Carly says she knew that Nina was a presence in Nixon Falls, for months, and of course (🍷) Sonny saw her. But this is the first she’s hearing that he considers Nina his friend. He says she’s not his friend; he didn’t say that. When he didn’t know who Nina was, or what she’d done to his family… When he was Mike… He takes her hand, and Bobbie runs into the plaza. She says she’s sorry she’s late. She ran into… She asks if she’s interrupting, but Sonny says, they have plans, right? He tells Carly he’ll see her later, and leaves. Bobbie asks if everything is okay, but Carly says she doesn’t know.    

Still in the ring with Willow, Michael says Nina is counting on her to co-exist, and put her mistakes in the past. That way, when anyone approaches her, and holds her accountable, like him or his mom, they’re unreasonable, vindictive. She flips the script and goes from being a borderline psycho, liar, someone who kept his dad a virtual prisoner for nine months… He doesn’t want to go down this rabbit hole. He doesn’t want to waste this moment with her. She’s beautiful, and sweaty, and throwing punches. He doesn’t want to waste that on anyone, least of all, Nina. Willow says, who? and he says, exactly. He doesn’t want to think about the things he hates, and miss the thing he loves, standing right in front of him.

Brando tells Maxie and Nina that he’s terrified. What if they can’t get to the baby in time? Maxie says, he can’t think like that, and Nina says, Maxie’s right. Sasha is incredibly resilient. Maxie says, and so is he. You know what that means? His baby is a badass too. Nina asks if they’ve found baby names yet, and he shakes his head. She says, Badass Corbin has a nice ring to it. I actually like that one. Brando guesses he should head to the OR, and Maxie asks if she can walk with him. She’s had an emergency C-section, so maybe she can tell him what to expect. He says he’d appreciate that, and Nina says, please keep her updated. And tell Sasha that she loves her. They leave, and Nina leans against the wall, looking sad.

Everyone bustles around, prepping for Sasha’s surgery. Dr. Navarro comes in, and gets gloved up. Sasha looks worried. Yikes! We see them cut into her.

Valentin says he admired Brook. He felt lucky, like they were kindred spirits; like they understood one another. And she was gracious to Charlotte. He thought she would be a good influence to her, but he was wrong. It was all a lie. Smoke and mirrors. That’s all she is. She saw the damage she was doing, and stood by and did nothing. She just let it roll, and go on and on… She says, that’s not what happened. There’s a huge piece of this that he doesn’t understand.

Obrecht says, that schwein Peter must have run away in all the commotion. Jason says, they know he’s not headed to the house, and Obrecht says, he doesn’t know where he’s headed. He was hopelessly lost. Britt asks how Jason and Drew found them, and Jason says, Drew was able to track them. Obrecht says, of course (🍷), and tells Drew, congratulations on overcoming the conditioning. Drew says, the credit goes to Jason, but Jason says, actually, the credit goes to Britt. She found a way to give him the card from Peter. Britt hugs Jason again, and Obrecht says she was just trying to be inclusive. Jason asks if Drew can pick up Peter’s trail; they have to find him. Drew asks if Obrecht and Britt can find their way back, and Obrecht says, one of her minor PhDs was in geology. These tunnels are the brink of collapse. Drew says, that gunfire didn’t help the situation, and Obrecht said, it made it exponentially worse. If they want to get out alive, the need to go now. They start to walk, and Jason looks behind them. He says, get down, and Peter starts shooting at them.

Bobbie says she’s not trying to pry, but Carly says, she needs Bobbie to pry. Bobbie says she’s concerned. Everything’s so tense between Carly and Sonny. Is it awkward because of what happened with Carly and Jason? Carly says, no. They talked about that, and they’re all on the same page. It’s got nothing to do with Jason. Bobbie says, that is a relief. Take it from her, there’s nothing worse than feeling like there’s a third person in your marriage.

Michael says he and Willow are so lucky to have each other, and Wiley. They should just focus on that, be here and now, and not worry about anything else. She says, at least not until the next time Nina comes calling. What if she shows up on Thanksgiving; just drops by to give something to Wiley? He says, what if Wiley’s not home? What if he’s in New York City with them? She says, they’re going to New York City? and he says, they could. Has she ever been to the Thanksgiving Day Parade? She says, not in person, and he says, this could be the year. The three of them could go to the parade, Rockefeller Center, Central Park. She asks if they could go see a show, and he says, any show she wants. Her pick. She says, are they really doing this? and he says, let’s get away from this miserable situation, and have an amazing Thanksgiving weekend. All she has to do is say yes. She says, yes, and hugs him. Believe me, the parade’s not all it’s cracked up to be in person. You have to get there before the crack of dawn, the balloons don’t look so perfect, and are a little scary hanging over you, it’s crowded, and the lip-syncing is even more obvious. And if it’s cold, you’ll feel like you’re never going to be warm again after standing on that cement. However, if you can find a place inside along the route to observe, maybe with mimosas and bagels, take that opportunity.

Nina goes into Charlie’s, and tells bartender Johnny that she’s mixing it up today, and orders a vodka soda with lemon. She flashes back to telling Sasha that she’s going to make a fantastic mother, and Sasha saying it would be due to Nina, who’d shown her what it looked like to be a kind, loving mother. Even after Nina knew what Sasha had done, she still showed Sasha compassion. Nina asks Johnny if Phyllis is out, and he says, she stepped out, but she’ll be back soon. Nina starts to take her drink to a table, when Sonny walks in.

Wearing surgical gear, Brando runs into the OR. He tells Sasha that he’s right here, and asks how she is. She says, numb, and he says, she’s the bravest person he’s ever met. Dr. Navarro says, this is it; it’s time for their baby to be born. She tells Sasha that she might feel pressure, and Brando says, she’s got this. The doctor says, he’s here, and holds the baby up. Sasha says, oh my God, and Brando says, their first son. The baby is hustled to the corner of the room, and everyone gets busy there. Brando asks, what happened? What’s wrong with their baby?

Brook says, is she a screw up? Yes. Is she shortsighted and selfish? 100%, but there’s a legitimate reason she couldn’t tell him the truth. Chase knocks and walks in, and Valentin says, just in time. Chase asks, what for? and Valentin says, the latest bombshell. It turns out Brook’s been lying to him. He’s not Bailey’s father after all. Chase says, he’s aware, and Valentin says, Brook told him? She says, never. She didn’t tell anyone. Chase says he knows Valentin isn’t Bailey’s father, because he is.

Jason shoots back at Peter, and Obrecht tells him to stop shooting. He tells Drew. get them out of here, and Drew tries, but Britt is resistant. Peter and Jason shoot at one another, and the ceiling starts to crumble, falling on Jason. Britt screams for him, and Drew holds her back.

On Monday, Chase says he’ll never forgive Brook for this, Robert wants any excuse to shoot, everyone lies in the rubble on Cassadine Island, and Sasha is hemorrhaging.

🧺 Alice Has Left the Building…

What an untimely shame. She was so funny on GH! Be sure to check out the tribute where there’s a video of Alice kissing Dobson, who was really Alexis. She will be missed.

https://people.com/tv/general-hospital-actor-bergen-williams-dead-at-62-after/

🔬 Oh Brad…

Apparently, he had some haters, but I’m thrilled he’s coming back.

🦃 Talking Turkey…

Soaps airing or not on Thanksgiving. Why GH is choosing to air a rerun from February is beyond me, when they have their choice of classic pizza-for-Thanksgiving episodes.

🎄 Christmas Days…

DOOL is everywhere these days.

https://ew.com/tv/days-of-our-lives-christmas-movie-for-peacock/

👠 It’s Mediocre To Be Her…

The latest on Erika. I don’t believe for a second, if another rich dude came along, she wouldn’t jump at the chance to get married again. Although she’d probably be a lot smarter.

https://people.com/tv/erika-girardi-says-she-will-never-marry-again-divorce-tom-girardi/

https://people.com/tv/rhobh-erika-girardi-says-everything-is-good-amid-ongoing-legal-trouble/

📩 Ain’t Too Proud…

Even if true, it’s kind of old news. I guess she’s too busy with the new fiancé to pick a new fight.

🎭 Naturally Entitled…

I have never once seen any audience member put a drink on a Broadway stage. It’s a play, not a singles bar. Even worse is walking back from intermission mid-act. Too bad they didn’t make her stand at the back of the theater, which would be their call.

🍑 To NeNe Or Not To NeNe…

Kenya twirls in to give her opinion.

🛥 It Just Doesn’t Matter…

It looks like RHUGT is a thing now.

🍹 Needs New Accessory…

I’m actually sorry this didn’t work out.

https://screenrant.com/southern-charm-kathryn-dennis-chleb-ravenell-breakup-split/

👨🏻 Not With That Mustache…

I’m surprised he hasn’t spoken about this on Vanderpump Rules. He plugs everything else about himself.

💪🏼 No One Will Even Notice…

This is kind of funny. Like when someone is drunk, and they’re trying real hard to keep you from knowing. In other words. It’s a fail.

https://people.com/style/lala-kent-changes-her-rand-tattoo-to-brand-new-after-randall-emmett-breakup/

🎯 Quotes of the Week

Compassion is the ultimate and most meaningful embodiment of emotional maturity. It is through compassion that a person achieves the highest peak and deepest reach in his or her search for self-fulfillment. – Arthur Jersild

Ability is what you’re capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it. – Lou Holtz

If you are going through hell, keep going. – Winston S. Churchill

The really magical things are the ones that happen right in front of you. A lot of the time you keep looking for beauty, but it is already there. And if you look with a bit more intention, you see it. – Vik Muniz

We can always begin again. – Sharon Salzberg

I am so clever that sometimes I don’t understand a single word of what I am saying. – Oscar Wilde

Humor is reason gone mad. – Groucho Marx

Our heads are round so thought can change direction. – Francis Picabia

🎬 Once More Unto the Breach…

Until it’s time for the Dead, your homework is to do something different and do something for yourself. Maybe those things are even one and the same, in which case, double that. Whatever you do, stay safe, stay acting out of love, not fear, and stay not thinking about the things you hate. You might miss the things you love.

November 18, 2021 – Carly Loses Her Mind About Nina, Small Business On the Runway, Million Dollar Highlights, What’s Shaking in OC & Pale

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Cassadine Island, Greece. Jason looks at The Chariot tarot card. He flashes back to Peter showing it to Drew, and saying, stand down. He messes with the shackles he’s in.

Britt and Obrecht are left alone. Britt tells her mother, it’s going to be okay. They’re going to get out of there. Obrecht says, she sounds confident, and Britt says she is. She slipped Jason The Chariot card. He’s going to be able to break through Drew’s conditioning. Obrecht says, the truth is, they can’t count on anyone but themselves. It’s up to them to get rid of Peter.

Sasha holds Brando’s hand as she goes through a contraction. He asks if she’s okay, and she says, never better. He says, strong one, huh? and she asks if they’re getting closer together. He says, not yet. It looks like they have some time before they meet their son. She tells him, say that again, and he says, there’s more time? She says, the other part, and he says, their son. She smiles. Elizabeth comes in, and asks how they’re doing. He says, according to mom, never better, and Elizabeth says that’s what she likes to hear. She’s going to be staying with them until Dr. Navarro is ready. Brando says he’s going to get coffee, and asks if Sasha wants anything. More ice chips? She says she doesn’t need anything, and he says he’ll be right back. He tells the baby to stay put until he gets back, kisses Sasha’s belly, and leaves. She flashes back to Brando saying she and the baby are all he wants, and kissing him.

Sonny sees Brando by the elevator, and asks how Sasha is doing. Brando says, handling labor like a champ, and Sonny asks how he’s doing. Brando says, happy, excited, nervous, terrified… Did he say happy? Sonny says he did. That all sounds exactly right.

Carly goes stomping over to Nina, and Willow wisely grabs Wiley, and gets him the hell out of there. Carly asks, what’s it going to take to keep Nina away from Wiley? A restraining order? She’s calling the cops. Here Nina is, fresh out on bail, and she’s harassing Willow and Wiley? Nina says she’s doing no such thing; not even close. Willow returns, having deposited Wiley with a caregiver.

Valentin’s phone rings, and Gladys says, don’t answer that. He asks, why? and she says, it’s Brook. He looks at the phone, and sees she’s right, and asks, what if something is wrong with the baby? Gladys says, the baby is fine. Brook is going to try and talk him out of listening to her, and that would be a travesty for him and that little girl.

Austin asks Maxie to just level with him. Tell him the truth. Are she and Brook in some kind of trouble? Brook runs past on the phone, leaving Valentin a message to call her back immediately.

Willow tells Carly, no need to call the police. Nina wasn’t harassing her; not at all. Carly asks if Nina followed her here, and Willow says that never occurred to her. This is beyond stupid, since Nina was there in the middle of a phone call when Willow came along. Nina tells Carly, she was there for the Fall Fair; she was picking something up for Phyllis. Willow says she ran into Nina, that’s all. It’s perfectly innocent. Nina even offered to leave. Carly says, Willow let her stay? Willow says, Wiley was excited to see her, and Carly says she just finished talking to Phyllis, and she was defending Nina. Now here Nina is trying to worm her way back into Wiley’s life, as if she has any right to it. Nina says she doesn’t have to report to Carly, but here it goes. She hasn’t seen Wiley since the day she returned to Port Charles. This was an accident. Carly says the next time Nina accidentally runs into Wiley, walk away. Better yet, turn around and run. Willow tells Carly, that isn’t her decision to make. Carly not letting it go, even though everyone is telling her to, makes me think of a credo I go by. If someone calls you an ass once, shrug it off, but if more than one person calls you an ass, start looking in the mirror for the ears and tail.

Brando says, this dad thing’s a little overwhelming, and Sonny says, that’s one word for it. Brando says, they’re not even done with the birthing part yet, and Sonny asks why he thinks they call it labor? It’s going to be one of the hardest and greatest things he ever has to live through. Can he imagine? You’re watching the woman you love struggle to bring a baby into the world, and all you can do is hold her hand and tell her to breathe. But when it’s over, and you got that little baby, it changes everything. For the better. It’s all right. Sonny hugs Brando, and says he’s going to do it. It’s all going to be worth it. Brando says he can’t wait.

Elizabeth tells Sasha, everything looks good. Her blood pressure is a little elevated, but that’s not abnormal. Sasha asks how she does it, and Elizabeth says, do what? Sasha says she’s overwhelmed at bringing one child into this world, and Elizabeth has three. Elizabeth says, the first one is definitely the biggest adjustment, but you do adjust… and learn and grow and love. Sasha says she’s getting that sense. She already loves this little guy so much, and she hasn’t even met him yet. Elizabeth says, just wait. She has no idea.

Brook wonders why Valentin isn’t answering his phone. Maxie goes over to her, and asks, what’s going on? Keep in mind they have an audience. Brook asks if she’s seen Gladys, and Maxie says, no; why? Brook says, all hell broke loose at the art exhibit. Gladys found out Kip isn’t really the baby’s father. Maxie asks, how? and Brook says, does it matter? She said there’s no stopping her this time. She’s going to tell Valentin the truth. Maxie asks what Brook is still doing standing there, and Brook says, excellent point, and jets.

Valentin says Gladys has his attention. Although he’s not sure why, given the fruitless nature of their previous meeting. Gladys says she’s sorry. She should have told him the truth then. She was intimidated by some cater waiter actor buffoon. He says, let him guess, Brook was the mastermind, and she says, bingo, but she couldn’t let fear keep her from doing the right thing. He wonders if she can do it without so many words, and she says, Brook’s been lying to him.

Austin says, that looked intense, and Maxie says, you know Brook. He says, it also looked familiar. That’s the second time in a short while he’s seen Brook scurry away in a tizzy, and the second time Maxie seemed to be involved. Maxie says, just spit it out. What exactly does he think she and Brook are up to?

Britt tells Obrecht, here’s the good news. Peter isn’t going to kill either one of them. He knows he can’t get Maxie back by any rational means; he’s going to have to brainwash her. Something, unfortunately, Obrecht knows how to do. Obrecht says she’s not an expert like Britt’s father was, but she has a firm enough grasp. Britt says, Peter’s counting on that. He’s going to order Drew to kidnap Maxie and bring her back to him, and have Obrecht program her to love him. She can’t believe she’s even saying these words. Obrecht says, Peter can only get her to do it by threatening Britt, and Britt says, exactly. She’s his leverage. Peter needs Obrecht, and to force her to cooperate, he needs Britt. It’s going to keep them both breathing. Obrecht says, for now.

The guard comes in, and tells Jason, time’s up, Morgan.

Sasha says, this is probably a dumb question, but Elizabeth says, there are no dumb questions. Sasha says, there’s no way to predict how long her labor will be, is there? and Elizabeth says she wishes she did. Every labor is tough, especially with the first one. It could be hours, it could be a day… Brando comes in, and says, a whole day? and Sasha asks if he’s sick of her already. He says, never, handing her a cup of ice chips, and asks what he missed. Elizabeth says, just another contraction, and Sasha says, but the baby kept his word and is still in there. He says, good man. He saw Sonny; he sends his best. Sasha says, that’s sweet. What else did he say? Brando says Sonny told him this is going to change everything, but in the most amazing way. She says she already knew that, and he says, him too. She says, but it’s nice to hear it again.

Nina picks up her shopping bag, and says, maybe it’s time to finish up the shopping that she came there to do. Carly says, that’s thoughtful of her, and Nina leaves. Carly asks if Willow bothered to call Michael, to see if he thought this surprise meeting was a good idea, and Willow says she didn’t. It was spontaneous; it happened. Carly says, if it happens again, is Willow going to protect her son? She gets that Willow is trying to keep the peace, but does she need to remind Willow about the first time Nina spent time with Wiley? She told him Nelle was his mommy, not Willow. Is she really going to expose Wiley to that kind of pain and confusion again?

Obrecht says, so far, she’s disappointed in Jason, and Britt says, who risked his life to save her, even though Obrecht has a long history of terrorizing people he cares about? Obrecht says, that was very kind, although she knows he did it for Britt. He’s got a thing for her, and she doesn’t want Britt thinking he feels sorry for her. Britt says she knows he doesn’t. She doesn’t think he sees her differently. He accepts her as she is, before and after her diagnosis. Obrecht says, then why doesn’t he get a move on and kill that schwein Peter, and get them the hell out of here? Britt says, if that doesn’t happen, for whatever reason, they need to talk. Sooner or later, Peter’s going to let his guard down with one or both of them. They need to agree now. When that happens, and they get the opportunity, they kill him. Obrecht says, of course (🍷) they do, and Britt says, no matter the cost. She doesn’t care if there are five guards holding guns on her, kill the bastard. She means it. She’s going to die anyway, and they have to stop him. So if one of them sees a weapon or an opening, they use it. Deal? Obrecht says, deal. Peter pops in, and says, sorry for the delay. They’ll be on their way as soon as his guards confirm Jason is dead.

The guard tells Jason, don’t worry; he’ll make it quick. He takes out his gun, and Jason knocks him to the floor, still cuffed, getting him in a headlock. The guard slips into unconsciousness, and Jason gets the key. He undoes his shackles and handcuffs. He takes the guard’s gun, and leaves.

Austin says, if he knew what Maxie was up to, why would he ask? She says, maybe he’s the type of person who likes to test people, and he says, if he were, would she pass? She asks, what’s the subject? and he says, deception, and he’s not talking about the company. She says, deception about what? and he says, here’s what he knows for certain. Brook has been a real nervous Nelly in the last few weeks. On more than one occasion, he’s seen them put their heads together, and speak in hushed tones, and the other day, he saw Maxie hand a wad of cash to some guy with a gun. She says, that was a prop; he was an actor. He says, okay, cool, but why did she give him money?

Valentin tells Gladys, he already knows Brook is up to something. He just doesn’t know what it is. She says, he really can’t guess? and he says, he doesn’t like guessing games. She says, it’s a tale as old as time, when Brook walks in, saying, thank God she found Gladys. Gladys asks, why so worried? and Brook says she didn’t want Gladys to think she locked her in the back room at the gallery. She swears it wasn’t her. Gladys asks, who was it then? but Brook has no clue. She thinks she and Gladys should talk, because she’s come up with some really unique and generous ways to meet Gladys’s needs. Gladys says she sees. Brook wants to play nice. It’s too late. She gave Brook plenty of chances, and she blew them all. Brook says, just listen to her, but Valentin interrupts, thanking Gladys for stopping by. He asks for a moment alone with Brook, and Gladys tells him, don’t let Brook snow him. He’s too smart for that. She leaves, and Valentin says, it’s obvious she’s blackmailing Brook. Does she want to tell him why?

Brando says, talking to Sonny got him thinking. What does she think about Mike as their baby’s middle name? She says, Mike as in Sonny’s father? and he says, Mike was around a lot when he was a kid, and he always looked up to him. They lost touch for a long time, but he got to know Mike toward the end of his life, and admired him all over again. Sonny’s always been good to him, and he’s also Michael. She says she loves it; it’s perfect. He was such a wonderful man, kind of like someone else she knows. He asks if he should be jealous, and she says, of himself? She’d advise against it. Elizabeth comes in, and hands Brando a roller, saying, if Sasha gets uncomfortable, he gets to massage her back. Sasha says she feels wonderful right now. Maybe a little impatient. Daddy’s here; let’s get this show on the road. Elizabeth says, if she takes a walk, it might help induce labor, and would probably help with the intensity too. If she has a contraction, stop and relax; don’t try to move through it. Sasha says she’s not sure she could, and Brando asks if she wants to take their baby for a spin. She tells him, try to keep up, and he says he’ll do his best. He and Elizabeth help Sasha out of bed.

Willow tells Carly, Nina learned her lesson. She doesn’t expect Nina will do anything like that again. She understands Carly is trying to protect Wiley; she is too. Carly says, by letting him play with Nina, the woman who kept Sonny away from him, away from all of them? Willow says, this situation isn’t easy for her either. Wiley spotted Nina and reached out to her. What would Carly have her do? Let Wiley cry because he isn’t allowed to see someone who makes him happy? Carly says, that woman hurt Wiley’s entire family. Is that not a consideration for her?

Sonny sees Nina.

Obrecht tells Peter, there’s a much easier way to do this. Once Jason is dead, he won’t be a problem anymore. Peter says, that’s usually how it works, and she says, Jason can’t stop him or hinder his plans. Let Britt go, and she’ll come with him voluntarily. It’s not like everyone doesn’t think she’s rotten anyway; it’s not like she’ll be missed. He says, and she’ll just do what he asks in terms of Maxie just because? She says she’ll do what he asks because if she has to choose  between Maxie and Britt, she’ll choose her daughter every day of the week. He has her word. He says, that is a really great offer, if he trusted her to make good on it. He doesn’t. He tells the guard that they can’t wait any longer. Grab them, and let’s get out. Jason appears, and shoots the guard, and says, don’t move. Drew is suddenly there, and puts a gun on Jason, and says, don’t move.

Brook says, Gladys doesn’t know what she’s talking about, and Valentin says, that’s not an answer. Brook says, Gladys thinks she knows something, but she doesn’t. He closes the door, and says, about Bailey? She said Brook is lying to him about his daughter. Brook says, my God. There’s nothing that woman wouldn’t say or do for money; she’s disgusting. He can’t trust a word she says. He asks if he can trust Brook, and she says, of course (🍷). He says, Austin was already there, and said she was up to something. He’s got a bad feeling. She says, please, and he says, he can’t be right. Brook wouldn’t hurt him that bad just to get her hands on some damn stock.

Drew takes Jason’s gun, and Peter says he’s waited a long time to say these words – kill him. Britt says, no, and distracts Drew for a moment, giving Jason a chance to grab Drew’s gun hand. They struggle, and Obrecht picks up Jason’s gun, but Peter grabs Britt. He says, drop it, or she dies. Obrecht says, he wouldn’t, and he asks if she’d like to test that theory. He asks how her grandson is; James is probably missing his oma right about now. Britt says, do it, but Obrecht puts the gun on the table. Drew and Jason continue to fight, and Peter says, they’re leaving. Now. He takes Britt, and Obrecht follows. Drew slams Jason up against the fireplace.

Maxie tells Austin, so this suspicion is happening because he sees her with her friend a lot, and she gave an actor money? He says, that, and what Gladys said. She says, he’s had more conversations with Gladys? and he says, she’s a very chatty woman. She asks what Gladys said, and he tells her, she’s holding something over Brook’s head, and it has to do with Valentin. He doesn’t know for certain what it is, but he could guess. She asks if he told anyone about this, and he says, only Valentin. Because that’s the only right thing to do.

Brook says, how it started is not how it ended, and he asks what they even means. She says, yes, it was a cynical undertaking at first. She wanted to use the baby to take over ELQ, but that was before she knew how much he’d love her. How much Bailey would love him, and how much she’d love them together. She starts to cry, and says, you know how it is when you put something in motion. It takes on a life of its own, and becomes something that you didn’t intend it to be, but this became something so much more important. Isn’t that what matters? Their family, what they have now. Valentin says, not if it isn’t real.

Sasha tells Brando, Elizabeth was right; walking does ease the pressure. He stops, looking at her, and she says, what? He says, she’s the most beautiful woman he’s ever seen, and she laughs. She says, right now, in her hospital gown, waddling through the corridors? He says, right now, and she doesn’t waddle. She says, that’s good to know. They’ll be decent parents, right? Their son will grow up knowing he’s safe, cared for, and loved. He says, that’s the plan. No? She says, that is the plan. It’s just that word makes her laugh. He says, planning was never their strong suit, and she says, can he believe this is happening? From a one-night stand in his garage to this. He says, just for the record, he can’t be happier, and she says, her neither. Let’s do it. My Lord, she’s so huge, you’d think she was having triplets.

Nina says she’s doing everything in her power to stay away from Sonny and his family. He asks, what happened? and she says she accidentally ran into Willow and Wiley, and she was talking to Wiley. Then Carly shows up, and loses her mind. She’s not sorry about seeing her grandson, but she is sorry if she’s causing him and his family more problems. Carly appears, and says, Nina’s not sorry for any of it, but she will be. Nina asks if Carly is threatening her, and Carly says, damn right she is, under no uncertain terms. Nina says, Michael had her arrested. What more does Carly want? Does she want to draw blood? Carly says, if it comes to that, hell yeah, but Sonny says, Nina knows the rules. There’s no need to fight or draw blood, okay? Carly asks what they’re going to do about Nina’s continued presence in Wiley’s life, and he tells Carly, she said it was an accident. Carly says, he believes her? Willow comes back with Wiley, and Carly runs over, saying, hey. Willow says, since Wiley’s grandparents are arguing, she’s going to take him home. She tells Wiley to say goodnight, and Sonny says, you going home, big boy? Carly tells him, sweet dreams. She loves him. He says he loves her too, and Nina stays where she is, looking sad.

Sasha says, Cornelius, and Brando says, Heathcliff, and no shortening it to Heath. She says, Barnstable, and he says, Aloysius. She says, Boniface, and he says, Hamlet. She says, Elmo, and he says, Elmo? She says, that’s the one he has a problem with? and he says, they can’t name their kid after a puppet. She says, okay, but they can name him Alo… oooh. She doubles over, and says she needs to get back.

Jason and Drew continue to tussle. Jason knocks Drew down, and gets on his back. He  takes out the tarot card, puts it in Drew’s face, and says, stand down. Drew snaps out of it, and Jason says, Drew? Drew says, yeah; it’s him. Jason asks what number he was in high school football, and Drew says, he was 82. Jason gets off of Drew, and Drew sits up, looking around. He says, what the hell?

Maxie says, she’s sorry, but when did Austin become the authority figure on the right thing to do? Was it before or after he took advantage of Chase, to be his spy in the Quartermaine house? He says, that sounds like Brook’s version of the story, and she asks if she got that wrong. He didn’t take advantage of Chase? Because here they have a guy who almost died, and is still stuck in a wheelchair, learning how to walk, and he finds out his wife is involved with Michael. Maybe Austin did think the best way for Chase to get over that pain was to betray the Quartermaines and go through Edward’s private paper. Austin says, he was trying to claim his father’s rightful inheritance, and she says, by using Chase. Austin says, he’s not the one who hurt Chase. Michael did when he slept with his wife. She says, that’s what she finds so interesting about this. Willow and Michael lied to Chase out of love and concern. Austin used him to get his hands on ELQ stock, and he’s the one who did the right thing? He says, in hindsight, he probably could have handled the situation better, and she says, what about Gladys? Can he honestly tell her that he enjoys chatting with her? Because it kind of looks like he’s working her for information; something he can dig up, and take to Valentin. From her point-of-view, he’s using Gladys to get back at Brook, but she’s obviously wrong, because he’s doing the right thing

Brook tells Valentin, this is what’s real. The way Bailey grabs his finger when she falls asleep; the way she lights up like a Christmas tree when he sings to her. And when she tries to sing back in that ridiculously adorable babble of hers. That’s real. Listen to her. Gladys is a horrible woman. She’s angry and nasty grasping. Why listen to anything she has to say? Why let her ruin something that’s really working. Maybe better than anything has ever worked in her entire life. She cries, and says, she’s not talking about the stupid company. She’s talking about her and him and bedtime stories. And Charlotte, and how amazing she is with her little sister. Why let Gladys’s awful insinuations poison something so beautiful. Please don’t do it.

Sonny says goodnight to Wiley, and Nina says she’s sorry to put Willow in such an awkward position. Nina waves goodbye to Wiley, and Willow tells him, it’s time to go. They leave, and Sonny tells Carly, she has to let it go. It was an accidental meeting. Nobody got hurt. She says, not tonight, but he got hurt. She did too. Their whole family was hurt. Doesn’t he care about that? Why is he defending Nina?

Jason picks up his gun, and Drew asks, what happened? How bad did it get? Jason says, Peter took off with Britt and her mother. Drew checks out the guard, and says, he’s alive; he’s just out cold. Jason says, good. No one else deserves to die because of Peter August. Jason says, there’s a small boat with a working motor. It’s on the southeast side of the island. It’s about three miles across open sea to the next island, but Drew is a Navy SEAL. Drew says he can probably make it, but Peter has at least five other guards out there. He’s going to need some back-up. Jason gives him a gun, and Drew asks if he’s sure about this. Jason tells him, like he said, he’s going to need some back-up. Drew takes the gun, and they leave.

Peter brings Obrecht and the others through the wine cellar, and Obrecht asks if they’re picking up some wine for their trip. Peter says, there’s a passage that leads to the water where a boat is waiting. Britt sees the guard on the floor, and asks if they should help him out, but Peter says, there’s no time. Obrecht says, at least tell them where they’re going, and he says they’re going somewhere no one can find them, except for Drew because he’s bringing Maxie. Now move. They go through the passageway.

Brando tells Sasha, she’s got this; she’s doing great. Just breathe. That was a bad one? She nods, and says, it still is. Elizabeth asks if she’s still in contraction, and Sasha says, it isn’t over. Elizabeth asks if she has pain anywhere else, and Sasha says, her back and stomach. Brando asks Elizabeth if Sasha is okay. How’s her blood pressure? Elizabeth says, it’s high, and Brando says, too high? Elizabeth says she’s going to get Dr. Navarro to weigh in on this. She’ll be right back. She leaves, and Sasha says, that’s a little better. He says he hopes nothing is wrong, but she says, don’t worry. Childbirth is notoriously painful, and hard. That’s why they call it labor. He says he doesn’t think labor is strong enough. It needs a new name. She says, that’s it, and he says, what? She says, Laborious Mike Corbin, and he says, it does have a ring to it. She says, she’s a genius, and he says, he’s the one who gave her the inspiration. She says, she’s having his baby, and he says, she is? Why didn’t she say anything?

Maxie starts to walk away, and Austin asks where she’s going. She says, anywhere but here sounds good. He says, Maxie, and she says, don’t Maxie her. She gave him every opportunity, not to mention benefit of the doubt, but he’s on some crusade to take Brook down. He says, that’s not true, and she says, really? He’s essentially interrogated her for the last half hour over something that has nothing to do with him. Then, he told her, with pride, that he went tattling to Valentin. She doesn’t know how else to say it to him. Brook is her friend. He says he’s aware, and she says, and as of now, he’s not. So mind his own business, and stay out of theirs.

Valentin says, he liked Brook. he liked her the moment he met her. And the shared the most amazing one-night stand. She says she’s flattered, and he says, and then she got pregnant. In the last several months, he’s come to see her in a different light, and appreciate her as a mother, partner, and friend. She says she appreciates him too, and he says, they shared some amazing moments. We flash back to Valentin meeting Bailey for the first time, and them agreeing they’ll give Bailey a great life. He says he trusted her. Charlotte and Bailey bonded as sisters. There’s the problem. If it was just him, fine, let things go on the way they are, but there are two other people he’s got to think about; Charlotte and Bailey. And for them, he’s got to know. Bailey’s not his, is she?

Tomorrow, Willow asks Michael if that’s so impossible to understand, Elizabeth says something is seriously wrong, Carly asks Sonny to help her understand, and Drew says if he kills someone, that’s just a bonus.

Project Runway

In Katie’s interview, she said it was her 4th time at the bottom, but her parents had instilled a lot of confidence in her. She felt pumped, and ready to show who she was. Christian told the designers to grab a box. Each one had a different accessory in it from a top NYC accessory designer. The goal was to support small businesses that had taken a downturn in the pandemic, and they would be doing a one-time collab with a designer to create a brand new look and a brand new accessory. Christian said, accessories got him to the next level, and the more customers the better. Shantall started crying, thinking of how getting a business off the ground was similar to her family coming there, and starting from scratch. Christian said the pandemic had been tough, but they were getting through it. The winning designer and accessory designer would split $25K. In addition to the usual trip to Mood, they were also going to a unique store for any special embellishment they liked. The designers opened their boxes to reveal handbags, gloves, jewelry, hats, and shoes. Bones was already familiar with his partner Ashaka Givens, who he said did amazing sculptural hats. He had an idea for a water woman, who characterized the magical moment when the sea and sand touched. Octavio’s designs had walked the red carpet with the headwear designer he was partnered with.

The designers had $400 and 30 minutes to spend in Mood. Christian pointed out that everything Coral made had been black, which is kind of ironic considering her name. Afterward, they went to Hai Trim, where they could spend $250 on notions. When I lived in Manhattan, my apartment was not in a residential area, and there were a lot of trim stores where we often bought beads and such, or things like feathers for Halloween costumes. They’re so much fun to look around in. Aaron decided to take a risk by doing a bathing suit to show off a handbag. The quote of the night was from Bones, who said, if only people knew how long it takes to make a ruffle. Chasity (who I’ve been calling Chastity – sorry) said she thought people underestimated Anna because she was quiet, but it was the quiet ones you had to watch out for. Christian made his tour, and said he didn’t want to force anything on Katie, but suggested making her long dress a mini to give it a more modern look. Bones said it was like two melding worlds. Zayden’s partner called him, saying the rent was due, and in Zayden’s interview, he talked about how he had been homeless when he won a scholarship to fashion school, and all the sacrifices he’d made. I suddenly wanted him to win.

The guest judge was Steven Kolb, CEO of the Council of Fashion Designers of America. Octavio had worked with headwear designer Rodney Patterson who said it was a match made in heaven. His outfit was larger than life, and the model carried one of those round vintage suitcases I love. I also loved Bones’s water woman in layers of blue, white, and grey, topped with Ashaka’s pearly hat. Coral also worked with a hat, from Lynn Paik, and had created a sheer red number, adding touches of her macrame skills. Kristina did a three-piece suit, showcasing shoes by Lauren Brinkers. To pay tribute to an inside joke about a paper bag, she’d also created a handbag that was basically an elevated paper bag. This turned out to be an unintentional bonus, since the judges loved it. Katie had settled on a high/low hem, to complement shoes by Rebecca Heykes. I hated to say it, but it was the same old from Katie, although the print was pretty and the shoes rocked. Shantall had created a red dress using a brooch from Aziza Abdullah Nicole at the beltline. I’m a huge brooch fan, and would love to see more of them worked into wardrobes. Zayden made a caftan style dress to go with a bag by Akilah Stewart, who added matching fabric to the bag. Aaron, who’d gone with the bathing suit, said his companion bag by Lorna Nixon was the Swiss Army knife of handbags, peaking my interest. I wondered if tools popped out of it. Chasity worked with an Andres Quintero Betancourt bag, but I thought her black two-piece pantsuit was boring. One of the most beautiful accessories was a chainmail piece by Sally Reardon that was a necklace, but also went over the shoulders. Anna created a dress that incorporated it, and since she’d needed nothing from Hai Trim, she wore a chainmail headpiece she’d purchased there. When it came down the runway, Steven was visibly into it. Last, but for sure not least, Prajje had made a 40s/50s retro number, with a matching turban. Pretty, but low key, the showpiece being gloves by Katie Sue Niklos. And like Prajje said, they weren’t just gloves; they were gloves. Elbow length, adorned with incredible flowers – like, actual 3-D flowers, not a print – and faux gems. Prajje said he was simply the messenger. Brandon said it was a great show. I always think even the worst of them is great, since sewing isn’t exactly in my wheelhouse. I did okay in home ec, and also made a couple of costumes for myself for shows in high school, but that’s about the extent of it. Oh yeah, I made a halter top once. I probably don’t need to tell you how easy those are to make. I still have it though.

Anna, Aaron, Chasity, and Shantall were safe. The started with Prajje, who was at the top, Elaine welcoming him back to the winner’s circle. He said he’d thought of his grandmother, dressed to the nines for church. Steven said the outfit was sophisticated glamor, as well as timeless. It could be worn by Jackie O. or Lady Gaga. On the low end was Zayden, who’s mistake seemed to have been detracting from the bag with other accessories. Nina said the dress didn’t deserve to be on the bottom, but the styling was too much. Elaine reminded him about Coco Chanel’s advice to always take one thing off before leaving the house. (Yeah, I don’t listen to that one either.) Also at the top was Coral, who was technically meeting the judges for the first time, since she’d been safe, but in the background. Nina said she’d been impressed with the macrame touches Coral always added. Brandon said whoever wore her piece would be on the Best Dressed List, and Steven said he could see the look on the red carpet. Unfortunately, Bones was on the low end, Elaine telling him that the model was swimming in fabric. She couldn’t imagine who would wear it. Ouch. Nina thought he had no focus, and had overshadowed the accessory. Katie was on the bottom yet again, Elaine suggesting Katie might have chosen a fabric of lighter weight or something sheer. Steven said it was too heavy on the top, and Brandon thought the high/low hem made it seem like she wasn’t sure about the dress. Kristina was on top, with an honorable mention for the paper bag. Nina said it was cohesive, head to toe, and runway ready. Steven said it was also versatile, since the top, pant, and jacket could be worn separately. Also at the top was Octavio, Nina saying the challenge was made for him. Steven said Octavio’s outfit was a lesson in geometry, and had natural movement. Brandon called it, larger than life.

The judges deliberated. In choosing the winner, Nina said that Prajje’s creation was borderline costume, but I wasn’t sure how it couldn’t be, when the gloves were so dramatic. On the losing end, she said she didn’t think Katie trusted herself. The bottom line was, they were choosing who they’d be investing in, and who would have more longevity in their career.

Kristina was the winner, along with Lauren Brinkers, and seemed pretty surprised. She said she had no words, and high-fived Bones. In her interview, she said it felt great. When you were trying to say something, and the judges saw that, it was everything. Nina told Zayden, he was safe, but always take off one thing. She said that Katie was continuously listening to voices that weren’t her own, and the look had embodied it. Bones had too many ideas going on. Then Nina did that thing I hate. She said, Bones… you are in. It’s like a throwback to the early American Idol days, when they were allowed to torture people. Katie said she appreciated the opportunity, especially since she hadn’t even gone to fashion school. Elaine said she hoped Katie would get a clear sense of her capabilities, and trust herself to explore her range. In Katie’s interview, she said she regretted letting other voices crowd out her own, and Christian said she found herself a little bit. He knew she had a customer out there, and would find them and have a moment. Katie said she was going to start a clothing brand when she got back, and her advice was, trust your own voice.

Next time, an avant-garde challenge, a car accident, and Billy Porter as guest judge.

💰 Highlights. I caught some of Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles, since they reran it tonight. It looked like JoshA and Fredrik were on a roller coaster ride, co-listing with seller rep Yuri. First, Yuri wanted Fredrik out, but JoshA told him, they came in together, and they were selling it together. It was both or neither. (More niceness!) He and Fredrik talked about being Thelma and Louise, but they both wanted to be Thelma. JoshF showed a property that once belonged to Doris Day that had a massive 30,000 square foot backyard. He closed the deal during a brunch hosted by Tori Spelling, where he and the buyer were both guests. Yuri ultimately got rid of both JoshA and Fredrik when the property was taken off the market. In his interview, JoshA said it had been three months of work, and he and Fredrik were each out $25K. Remember that the next time you want to be a realtor. Looking on the bright side, Fredrik said, there’s always the next one.

🍊 Paging the OC…

RHOC is back on December 1st, along with Heather Dubrow.

Emily talks trailer.

If you haven’t seen it.

Eww!

https://www.bravotv.com/the-daily-dish/shannon-storms-beador-daughter-sophie-double-date-boyfriends-photos

🏋️ Power Napping Through Life…

Come and set a spell tomorrow for a little soap, a little tea, and even some knowledge. Until then stay safe, stay comfortable in yourself, and stay remembering there are no dumb questions. Although you might come along a dumb answer or two.

November 17, 2021 – Nina Crosses Paths With Three People, Austen Gets a Text From an Evil Sorcerer, Salty Wives, Old News, Word On the Ultimate & The 18th

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

At Rice Plaza, Willow says Wiley has been such a good boy while they were shopping, why don’t they celebrate with some hot chocolate? She sees Nina on a bench, dealing with work calls.

Phyllis is wiping down the bar at Charlie’s, when Carly comes in. Carly says, Sonny has Phyllis working already, and Phyllis says, Sonny is counting on her to make this place a success. Since there’s no time like the present… Carly says she thinks Sonny is so excited to have Phyllis in Port Charles, if she made Charlie’s a success, that’s just an added bonus. Phyllis asks if she can get Carly something, but Carly doesn’t want to interrupt her while she’s busy. Phyllis says she has time to talk; what’s on Carly’s mind? Carly says Sonny’s told her so much about Phyllis, she thought they could get to know each other one-on-one.

Alexis sees Sonny at the hospital, and says, she was wondering when she’d run into him. He says, he’s glad she’s back, and they hug.

Maxie goes to the reception desk, and Austin says, she gives Bobbie a ride to work and picks her up; she’s a good friend. She says, actually, she came to talk to him, and he asks, what’s up? She says she doesn’t like the way they left things. He’s obviously angry with her, and she’d like to know what she did.

Dante is in the shower, when his phone rings. Still at the gallery, Olivia says, pick up, but gets voicemail. She tells him, Leo is missing. Please come to Ava’s gallery right away. She needs his help. Ned joins her with Brook, and she says, any word? He says, Leo’s gone.

Spencer tells Trina, congratulations on a job well done, and she thanks him. She says, she has to admit, she was a bit nervous, but everything went off without a hitch. Esme says, it really did. So amazing.

Brando asks if Ava has seen Sasha, but she hasn’t. He says, she must still be in the ladies room, and Ava says, for a pregnant woman in her third trimester, that’s a solid guess. Is everything all right? He says, he found out some amazing news about their baby, and can’t wait to talk to Sasha about it.

Gladys says, dammit. This door is jammed tight. This place is a firetrap. Sasha says, oh no, and Gladys says, don’t worry. On the bright side, when they get out of here, they can sue Ava and make a nice little bundle; get some free art in the process… Sasha says, that’s not what she meant, and Gladys asks, what is it? Sasha says, her water just broke.

Austin says he’s not angry with Maxie. This is just what disagreement looks like, and they’ve agreed to disagree when it comes to Brook. She says, and Gladys? and he says, he won’t run down Maxie’s friend in front of her anymore. He promises. She says she appreciates that. She knows what Brook did to him was unforgivable, but… He says, there’s no but in that sense. What she did was unforgivable period. She says, at least Brook was looking out for her family, and he says, of which he’s a part of. She says, Gladys just looks out for Gladys. He flashes back to Gladys telling him, it’s not about what Brook did to her, it’s what she’s doing to a dear, kind extremely handsome friend of hers, and he says, Valentin Cassadine. He tells Maxie, maybe Gladys just needs someone to talk to, and Maxie says, she kind of thinks Gladys talks too much. He doesn’t understand why it bothers her so much, and she says, because of Brook.

Sonny tells Alexis, Kristina called him, and said Alexis had been released from prison. Kristina was so excited, she almost blew his eardrum out. Alexis says, the lengths she’ll go, to have their daughter miss her. She’s sorry for what she did to Dante. Sonny says, she wouldn’t have picked up the syringe if… She says she wasn’t drunk out of her mind, but he says she was worked up about Peter August writing that article that Franco was dangerous. She thanks him for making excuses, but says he doesn’t have to do that. He asks how she’s doing, and she says she just came from a meeting, if that’s any indication. He says, it indicates she’s committed to staying sober, and she says, ten months today. She asks what he’s doing here, and he says he had a doctor’s appointment. She says, good place to come; there’s a lot of doctors here. He says he’s more concerned about her. Rough reentry? She says, yeah, but she’s hoping in time, things get back to normal. He laughs, saying, that’s not going to happen, and she says, thanks for the pep talk. He says, when things change, they change for the good.

Wiley runs to Nina, and she picks him up. Willow just stands there, staring at her, and Nina puts him back down.

Phyllis says, she’s looking forward to getting to know Sonny’s family, and Carly says, they’re looking forward to getting to know her too. She was told Phyllis moved out of the MetroCourt. Did she find an apartment? Phyllis says, not exactly; she’s living here. Carly says, in that dingy old office of Julian’s? Phyllis says, it’s a perfectly good room, but Carly says, it’s not. Please come back to the MetroCourt, and she’ll help Phyllis find an apartment. Phyllis says, thank you, but the back room is fine. She likes to keep things simple. Too much time in a small town, she guesses. Carly says, a very nice small town. Sonny told her things were good in Nixon Falls, and Phyllis says, they were. Carly asks if Phyllis will tell her about it.

Sasha says she can’t be stuck in here. Her water broke. She’s about to give birth. She has to get to the hospital. Gladys asks if she’s having contractions, and Sasha says, she was having discomfort before, so maybe. Gladys says she’s adorable. When she has a real contraction, she’ll know it. The good news is, they have some time. Babies don’t just pop right out. She still has no service, and suggests they try Sasha’s phone, but Sasha says she left it with Brando. Gladys says, not a problem; that’s Plan A. She bangs on the door again, and yells, we’re stuck in here! Sasha yowls, and sits down, and Gladys runs over. She says, contraction, and tells Sasha to just hang on to her. She can do this.

Dante arrives at the gallery, and Olivia hugs him, saying, thank God he’s here. They’ve got to find Leo. He says, walk him through it, and Brook says, she was right over there with Leo, turned around for a second, and he was gone. She checked the back room, the hallways, the bathroom. Her dad is outside checking the parking lot in case Leo left something in the car. Dante says, they’re covering a lot of ground, and Trina asks, what’s going on? Brook says, Leo is missing, and Trina asks what they can do to help. Ned runs in, and says, the valet saw Leo outside, and Olivia says, he just let Leo run off? Ned says, other people were leaving, and he assumed Leo was with them. Olivia starts to cry, saying, somebody could have walked off with him, but Dante says, calm down. She says he’s right, and Ned tells her, the valet said Leo didn’t seem upset; he was calm. Dante wants to talk to the valet, and Ned leaves with him. Ava says she’ll check the outside security footage, and Spencer says, there’s an ice cream truck on the corner. Trina says, kids love ice cream, and they jet, with Esme following. Brook says she’s going to check the gallery again, and Olivia says she’ll go in the opposite direction. If Brook sees anything, scream bloody murder. Brook says, they’ll find Leo, and Olivia says, damn straight they will.

Austin wonders what him being friendly with Gladys has to do with Maxie and Brook, and Maxie says, Gladys hates Brook. He says he can’t imagine why, and she says she’ll tell him. Gladys is Brook’s assistant, and Brook has this crazy notion Gladys should assist, as in do her job. He can’t imagine working for Brook is a picnic, and Maxie says, who knows? Glady’s sure doesn’t. All Gladys does is complain. She’s a terrible employee, and an even worse human being. He says, why not just fire her? and Maxie says, that’s beside the point, but he asks what the point is. She says she needs a cease fire between him and Brook, and he asks why it’s so important to her. She says, if he keeps going after Brook, she might be collateral damage.

Nina says, it’s good to see Wiley; she’s missed him so much. She looks at Willow, and tells Wiley, she’s sorry, but she has to go. Wiley tells her to stay, and she says she wants to, but she has to go. She’s about to cry, and Willow says, they were just going to get some hot chocolate. She should stay. Nina takes Wiley’s hand.

Phyllis tells Carly, then, the bartender quit an hour into his shift. Lenny was so mad. They really had their hands full. Carly asks what they did, and Phyllis says, adapted. Has anything like that ever happened at the MetroCourt? Carly says, they’ve had their share of walk-outs, but they have so much staff, there’s always someone to cover. Phyllis says, must be nice, and Carly says, even with the five-star rating, it’s hard to get good help. Phyllis says, it’s not every day that someone like Mike comes along. She’s sorry. She’s still getting used to calling him Sonny. Carly says, it’s okay. Phyllis didn’t know Mike was really Sonny Corinthos. Nina knew it.

Olivia and Brook come back, and Olivia tells Ned, they checked all around the building. Brook says, even the dumpsters, and Dante says, he put in a missing child alert. Spencer, Trina, and Esme come in, and Spencer says, they checked out the ice cream truck. Trina says, they looked up and down the street, and she’s sorry, but… Esme says, nobody remembers seeing Leo. Ava says she checked the footage, and Leo seemed absolutely fine, walking down the sidewalk, as calm as can be. Dante asks where he was headed, and Ava says, south. Dante says, near the harbor. Was there anyone with him? Ava says, not that she saw, and Olivia wonders where he could be going. Ned asks Brook to go over it one more time. Where were they? She takes him over to the octopus portrait, and says, right over here. Leo wanted to show her the pictures, and they were looking at the pictures when she got distracted by some cater waiter. By the time she turned around, Leo was gone. Ned says he thinks he knows where Leo went.

Gladys yells, help! We’re stuck in here! Woman in labor! She asks why Sasha gave Brando her phone, and Sasha says, they were going to wait to find out the sex of the baby, but a nurse accidentally revealed it in an email. Gladys says, so Sasha knows? and Sasha says she does. Gladys says, don’t hold her in suspense; she’s got baby clothes to buy. Sasha says she’ll tell Gladys, but only after Brando knows. Gladys says, she didn’t tell him yet? and Sasha says, that’s why she gave him her phone. So he could decide for himself whether he wants to know or not. Gladys says, of course (🍷) he wants to know, and bangs on the door some more, yelling, woman having a baby! Gladys asks if they’re having a boy or a girl, when Sasha has another contraction. Gladys yells, in here! and Brando comes down the hall. He says, mom? and she says, the door’s stuck. He realizes something is shoved in the door jamb, and pulls it out. He opens the door, and Gladys says, that was quick, calling him her big strong son. He says, the door was wedged shut, and she asks if he’s saying somebody locked him in. She flashes back to Brook opening the door for a moment, and leaving when Gladys said she was off the clock. She says, that little snake, and Sasha has another contraction. Brando runs over to her, and asks if she’s okay. She says, they have to hurry. The baby’s coming.

Alexis tells Sonny, she knows her time in the pokey changed her. For better or worse remains to be seen. He says, she seems a little lost, but she’s going to find her way, and she asks how he knows that. He says, because she’s Alexis Davis, and she wouldn’t have it any other way. She says, right. So word on the street is, since he’s been back, he’s a little nicer. He laughs, and says she can’t believe everything she hears. She says, that’s what she was thinking too. Maybe a little more mellow. He says, all right, and she says, she was thinking, because for the better part of a year, he wasn’t living like a criminal. He says, that’s true, and she says, correct her if she’s wrong, but he lost his memory. He’s a man without a past, so he’s got a clean slate, right? He says, something like that, and she says he has no idea how appealing that sounds to her.

Brando brings Sasha into the hospital, and Maxie asks, what’s going on? Did something happen with the baby? Brando says Sasha is having it, and Maxie says, right now? Austin brings a wheelchair over, and says, have a seat. Sasha sits, and he asks, who’s her OB? She says, Dr. Navarro. They called her on the way over, and she’s waiting on 4. Maxie says she knows this is a really weird thing to say right now, but she loves Sasha’s outfit. Sasha says, they were at the Photo Ark exhibit at the Jerome gallery; one last night out before the baby. Maxie says she made it just under the wire, and Sasha says, oh my God. When she leaves this hospital, she’s going to be a mom. She doesn’t think she’s ready. Maxie tells her, she already is a mom. She’s just getting ready to meet her baby. Austin, Brando, and Sasha go into the elevator.

Carly says, Sonny told her that he and Nina knew each other in Nixon Falls. She knew him, and never said a word to him about his family back home. And the worst part is, Nina came back to Port Charles several times while Sonny was there, and saw her. She saw Sonny’s family. She saw them mourning, and lied to their faces. Phyllis says, what Nina did was terrible, and Carly says she’s sorry. That’s not why she came here. They should stop talking about Nina. Phyllis asks if Carly is sure she wants to. She seems to have a lot to get off her chest. Carly says, because she can’t let it go. Every time she sees Nina, every time she thinks about her, she’s filled with so much anger and rage. Phyllis says, it sounds like a hard burden to carry, and Carly says, it is. Phyllis says she has to ask, is all this anger at Nina worth her energy?

Trina hopes Ned is right about where Leo went, and Spencer says he ran away once or twice when he was little; he was always okay. Granted, he was a little bit older than Leo is. Trina says, Joss and Cam told her that he had a chauffeur named Chandler that was with him most of the time. Spencer says, not when he ran away. He had Chandler drop him off first. Trina says, of course (🍷) he did, and Esme says, she loves the idea of little Spence up to no good, but Spencer says he’s not sure the people who had to live through it would agree with her. Trina asks, what was up with Sasha and Mrs. Corbin being stuck in the back room? How did that even happen? Of course (🍷) poor Sasha goes into labor. It’s a good thing Brando found Sasha, and got her to the hospital. Otherwise, she would have been stuck back there having the baby. Esme says, Trina was in the back room right before they were, right? and Trina says, she had to get the check and the flowers for Mr. Sartore. Spencer says, it’s lucky Trina didn’t get stuck back there with them. That would have been awful. Esme says, I know, right? It’s terrible.

Olivia and Ned go down to the docks, and call for Leo. Olivia asks if he really thinks Leo would come there; it’s so dark and scary. They shine their flashlights around, and see Leo, lying on the ground.

Sonny says, a clean slate’s not all it’s cracked up to be, and she says, she had a lot of time in prison to sit around and catalog her mistakes. She thinks it would be good to forget all that, but he says, he didn’t just forget all his mistakes. He forgot all the good things; his wife, his kids, her. He knows she doesn’t know Lenny and Phyllis, but they were great. They took him in. He was real happy in Nixon Falls, but then he got his memory back, and he couldn’t run fast enough to get home. She says she gets that. She wouldn’t want to forget her daughters. Her love life is an entirely different story. The last two alone; one tried to kill her, and the other one died in her bed. Who’d want to remember that? He says, think of it this way, it’s got to be better next time, right? She laughs, and says, not really. It’s so cute that he thinks there’s going to be a next time. She’s done. He tells her, if she says so, and she says she does. Actually, she should start looking for love, because he knows the saying, when you stop looking for love is when you find it.

Willow says, Wiley remembers Cindy from daycare, right? She’s going to take him to see Tom the Turkey, while she and Grandma Nina have a little chat. Cindy takes Wiley, and Nina thanks Willow. Willow says she did it for Wiley, and Nina says she knows. She just hopes Michael isn’t too angry when he hears. Willow says, just so Nina knows, she agrees with Michael about her not seeing Wiley, at least not right now. But chances are, their paths are going to cross from time to time, and she didn’t see the point in dragging Wiley away when he was so happy to see her. He misses his grandma. Nina says she missed him too, and Willow says, he also missed Sonny when he was gone. Nina says, of course (🍷). She just wants Willow to know that she’s very grateful for whatever time she can spend with Wiley. Willow says she really hates what Nina did, and doesn’t know if she can forgive Nina for it, but she’s also not going to make Wiley pay for Nina’s actions.

Carly isn’t sure she understands the question, and Phyllis says, she certainly doesn’t expect Carly to forgive Nina, but hopes Carly moves on for her own sake. Carly says that’s really hard for her, and Phyllis says she knows, but it seems Carly’s anger at Nina is only hurting her. Carly says, Nina stole more than time with her husband. She’s known Sonny for decades. She knows him better than anyone, and now, thanks to Nina, there’s a nine-month gap where Sonny was someone else; some guy named Mike. And she’s never going to know that guy. There’s a part of Sonny’s life where he’s a stranger to her, and she hates that. Phyllis says, of course (🍷) she does, but even though that gap exists, it doesn’t mean Carly has to get stuck in it. Carly says, it would be a lot easier if Nina left Port Charles; if her offices weren’t in Carly’s hotel. Phyllis says she understands Sonny spoke to Nina, told her to steer clear of him and his family. Carly says, yeah, and Phyllis says, has Nina complied? Carly says, more or less. She’s Nina’s landlord; they’re bound to cross paths. Phyllis says, it seems to her that both Sonny and Nina are trying to move forward. Can Carly try as well?

Gladys comes into the hospital, and Brando tells her that Dr. Navarro is in with Sasha. Gladys wants to see her, but Brando suggests they give her some privacy. She says, sorry; he’s right. She’s just so excited. A baby. Have they thought of any names yet? Please tell her that they’re not naming the kid Feather, or Storm, or some wacky thing with all consonants. He says, she’ll just have to wait and see, and she says, so everyone tells her. How’s Sasha doing? He says, the contractions are coming faster now. He hopes she’s not in labor long. Gladys asks if he has someplace to be, and he says, no, but it’s hard to wait, especially when he can’t do anything. She says, is he kidding? He’s done plenty already. Sasha needs to be alone; he’s leaving her alone. He’ll be right by her side when she needs him close, and when the baby does come, he’ll be right there, holding her hand. Just be careful. Sometimes, women squeeze so hard, they can break your hand. He says, it’ll be worth it, and she says, at least he’s in the hospital. No place better, right? He says, that’s one way to look at it, and she says she can always find the silver lining. She meant to ask him. He said the door of the back room at the gallery was wedged shut? He says, it was, and she says, like someone was locking them in there on purpose. He says, it was definitely put there on purpose. Whoever did it, probably thought there wasn’t anyone inside. She says, maybe, and he asks why anyone would want to lock her and Sasha inside? She says she has some ideas.

Olivia and Ned run to Leo, and help him up. Olivia asks, what happened? Talk to her. Ned examines Leo’s head, and says, no bump, and Leo repeats, no bump. Olivia asks what Leo was thinking, wandering away from the gallery all by himself? Dante and Brook join them, and Brook says, thank God. Dante asks if Leo is okay, and Ned says, he doesn’t appear to be injured. He was just lying on his stomach by the edge of the dock. Brook asks, what happened? and Ned says he doesn’t know. He asks Leo to look at him, and asks what Leo was doing down by the docks. Leo says, looking for an octopus, and Olivia says, in the dark by himself? He doesn’t have a jacket. Isn’t he cold? Leo says he likes it there, and Brook asks if he was trying to find an octopus like the one in the picture. Olivia says, he can’t just wander off by himself like that; it’s dangerous. They were all frantic about him. Can he see how scared she is?

Brando asks Sasha what the doctor said, and she tells him, she’s only two centimeters dilated, so it’s going to be a while. He sits, and says he’s just sorry he wasn’t there to help. Sasha says she’s glad he wasn’t stuck in there with them. They might have never gotten out. He hopes his mother didn’t make things worse, and she says, actually, Gladys was really helpful. He says, Gladys who? and Sasha says, Gladys kept her cool, and kept her calm. He says, will wonders never cease? Gladys comes in with a bunch of magazines, and says she brought them some distractions. They can catch up on celebrity dirt while waiting for the kid to arrive. Sasha thanks her, saying, it’s exactly what she needed. Gladys says, of course (🍷) it is. Now let’s get this show on the road. She’s ready to be the best grandma ever.

Nina says she noticed Willow wasn’t at the courthouse with Michael when she got extradited to Pennsylvania, and Willow says, she didn’t know. Nina asks if Willow would have gone along with him if she’d known, and Willow tells her, all she can say is, she understands Michael’s anger; his need to make Nina answer for what she did. Nina says, Michael has every right to be angry. If she were him, she’d have a hard time forgiving her too. Willow says, the way she sees it, the court will decide Nina’s punishment, and that’ll be that. Nina hopes she’s not causing any problems between Willow and Michael, and Willow says she isn’t. Whatever happens between her and Michael, has nothing to do with Nina. Nina says, of course (🍷). It’s just that she’s truly sorry if she caused them pain. Willow says, Nina kept her son’s grandfather from him, and lied to their faces about it. She’s not ready to hear Nina’s apology. Nina says she never intended to hurt anyone. She just wasn’t thinking about the children. She would never intentionally hurt a child. She just wasn’t thinking. Willow says, and now everyone is paying the price.

Ava says, good news. Leo’s been found, and he’s okay. Trina asks, where was he? and Ava says, down by the harbor. Trina says, he walked all the way there on his own? In the dark? Ava says, terrifying, isn’t it? There’s really nothing worse than thinking your child is in danger. She looks at Spencer.

Austin wonders if he can ask Maxie a question; it might be kind of sensitive. She says, that depends; what’s the question? He says, seeing Sasha come in to deliver a baby, did she think of Louise? More than she usually does? Maxie says, yeah. Seeing Sasha go into labor definitely brought back memories, but at least Sasha gets to have her baby in the hospital. She didn’t have that luxury with Louise. Or James. He says he has every faith Louise will be returned to her, and she says she misses Louise very much, but just wants her to be safe. He says he’s sorry. She has a very soft heart. She says, she didn’t used to. She’s not even sure she does now. What makes him say that? He says, for one thing, she seems to want everybody to get along, and she says, why bring more discord into a world that already has enough? He says, fair enough. He won’t be unkind to Gladys, but he won’t go out of his way to see her. She thinks that’s best for everyone, but he says he’ll have to take her word on that. Can he ask her another question? She says, how sensitive is this one? and he says, kinda sensitive. Before Sasha came in here, Maxie was saying that if he didn’t get along with Brook, somehow she’d be collateral damage. What does she mean by that?

Dante asks how Ned knew to look down at the docks, and Ned says he was doing some reading about children on the autism spectrum. Many of them are really attracted to water. First responders are taught to search the nearest body of water whenever a child with autism goes missing. Dante says, that’s true, and puts his arm around Olivia. He says he’s going to check on his little brother, and goes over to where Brook is sitting with Leo. Ned asks if Olivia is all right, but she says, no. She’s nowhere near all right. He tells her, he’s not saying Leo is definitely on the spectrum… and she says, they wouldn’t have known where to look for him. She starts to cry, and says she’s scared. He holds her, and says, he’s right here.

Gladys says, can you believe it? Two of he most beautiful, highest paid people in the world fighting over who gets more from the sale of their chateau. Brando tells Sasha to breathe, and she says she thinks she’s good. He asks if she’s sure, and she nods. Gladys says, that was a doozy. Distraction. They spotted him with his ex-wife. Brando tells her, Sasha’s tired, and Gladys says, and? He says he thinks Sasha needs some quiet, and the lightbulb comes on. Gladys says she’ll go grab a coffee or something. She’ll let them relax, but don’t worry; she’ll be back. Sasha says she wouldn’t have it any other way, and Brando closes the door, saying, she’s gone. Sasha says, thank God. She feels bad saying it, because Gladys was very helpful today… He says, but she’s his mom, and she says, exactly. He says, now that they’re finally alone, he can tell her. He read the email. She says he couldn’t stand the suspense, huh? He says he would have been thrilled either way, but now – he takes her hands – he can’t wait to meet their son.

Spencer tells Esme, what a great night, even if it was here. He’s so happy for Trina. Esme turns around, staring daggers at Trina, and says, her too. Can they go now? She really wants to be alone with him. She kisses him, and Trina sees.

Maxie tells Austen, she’s just looking out for her friend, and he says, she’s only a recent friend, right? She says, so? He’s only a recent friend, and she looked out for him with Chase. He says she told him once that she and Brook used to be enemies. What does she care if Brook gets some well-deserved payback? She says, please. She needs him to trust her when she asks him to just let this go. For her sake. He asks if she and Brook are in some kind of trouble.

Brook tells Leo, the next time he wants to see some marine life, she’ll just take him to the aquarium. Okay, little bro? They hear a siren, and Leo yells out, and covers his ears. Dante says, it’s just a police car, and Brook says, Leo’s been through a lot tonight. Olivia thanks Ned for being there for her tonight, and he says, always. She says she has to get Leo home. Is he coming? She holds out her hand, and he takes it. She says, they’ve got a lot to talk about.

Brando says, the contractions are getting closer together, and Sasha says, this is really happening. Is he ready? He says he’s ready, and kisses her hand.

Brook calls Gladys, and asks her to listen. Gladys says, Brook made a huge mistake. Her grandkid could have gotten hurt. Brook says she doesn’t know what Gladys talking about, but she needs to listen. She has an offer for Gladys. Gladys says, too little, too late, because Brook went too far. Whatever happens next, is on her. Brook says she doesn’t know what Gladys thinks she did, and Gladys hangs up.

Sonny says it’s really good to see Alexis. She says, it’s good to see him too. As for his respite in Nixon Falls, she hopes he doesn’t miss it too much. She tickles his stomach, and leaves.

Willow tells Wiley, time to go, and Nina thanks her for her compassion. Willow says, she just wants what’s best for Wiley, and Nina tells Wiley that she loves him so much. It was great to spend time with him and talk with him. She asks for a hug, and Wiley hugs her. Carly comes along and sees them.

Tomorrow, Willow says it isn’t someone’s decision to make (my guess: Carly), Sasha advises Brando against something, Maxie asks what Austin thinks she and Brook are up to, Carly asks what it’s going to take to keep Nina away from Wiley, and Jason is told, time’s up.

Winter House

I immediately got a headache with everyone yelling, wazzup? Paige told Andrea that Amanda said he wanted to stay a single guy, and he said he wanted to go home knowing he’d met a cool chick he wanted to see again. He wasn’t pulling out a ring after five days. In Paige’s interview, she said, she didn’t love that he wanted to leave being a single guy, but dating after knowing each other two weeks was crazy. I think she might have that backwards. I can see dating after two weeks, but not being exclusive. Andrea said he was old school, and wanted to get to know someone. He didn’t get why everyone wanted to make a big deal out of it. Kyle was passed out, and the girls threw Jenga blocks on him. Austen and Ciara, and Paige and Andrea all got in the same bed, and fell asleep, Andrea eventually tip-toeing out.

In Lindsay’s interview, she said, Jason was hot AF and could cook. He’d been there the whole time, and she’d been distracted by idiots. Kyle said his parents were joining them on the slopes, and in Amanda’s interview, she said she’d been a pro skier in her mind in middle school, and then forgot about it until she met Kyle. He came from a family skiers, and it was a lot of pressure. His grandmother had been in the 1940 Olympics, and his parents had met on a blind skiing date. Luke tapped a tree, and said he might as well, since he wasn’t going to be tapping anything else. They headed out to ski and snowboard, Jason saying he wanted radical it up. Those lifts scare TF out of me. Why don’t they have seatbelts? In Gabby’s interview, she said she’d been rejected, and we flashed back to her telling Luke that she wanted him inside her, and him sending her immediately to the friendzone. Seriously though, who says something like that ten minutes after meeting someone? She said she was resetting her mind. She was the Lone Ranger.

Kyle’s mom thought Amanda did fantastic; Kyle, not so much, since he fell at every turn. The girls went to have alcohol, while the dudes got more skiing in – real skiing, as they put it. In Paige’s interview, she wanted to be able to go back home saying, at least I didn’t sleep with him, in case things didn’t work out with Andrea. In Ciara’s interview, she claimed she never had feelings for anyone the way she did for Austen. She thought she could fall for him. In Jason’s interview, he said he was scared when he met Lindsay, but it was a treat. He loved a strong women. There was going to be no sleeping on this trip. Julia got flowers, chocolates, and a bear from her boyfriend, who missed her. No offense to him, but how cliché, and he’s 42. Come on. He can do better. In Craig’s interview, he said there were times he wished Natalie was there, but he was enjoying being by himself. He was in a weird headspace. When hasn’t Craig been in a weird headspace? And can we stop using the word headspace? Austen went to Ciara’s room, and covered the camera.

In Kyle’s interview, he said he partied a lot, but worked even more. He worked hard, so when he partied, it was going to be extreme. Ciara said she was a smitten kitten, and Austen brought her coffee in the morning. Andrea did the same for Paige. Viking hats were passed out, some with braids, and in Luke’s interview, he said, he grew up in Minnesota around a lot of Scandinavian people, and did a lot of outdoor winter activities. He wanted to get everyone outdoors in the elements. Kyle said, welcome to the first annual Nordic games. It wasn’t going to be easy, but it would be worth it. Luke led The Great Heathen Army team, and Jason led The Skull Crushers. It was no Squid Games, but actually kind of fun to watch them do things like log throwing and tug-of-war. To keep with the theme of adolescent idiocy, Ciara wore a bikini, and Gabby was also scantily clad. After the games, it was on to the hot tub.

Austen got a text, and was all, WTF? Then went off to his room, saying, leave me alone, to no one. Everyone got ready for what Kyle called a nice Viking dinner. Kyle danced, shirtless, in front of the mirror, singing, let’s work it, reminding me why I hate this show. Amanda wondered if Jason was for real, and told Julia that she wanted to make sure he was being genuine. Julia personally endorsed him, and in her interview, she said, it was hard to be without her boyfriend in a party house. Austen told Craig that someone had reached out to him, telling him that Madison had gone to the hospital. He unblocked her, and she’d texted him that she’d had a seizure while she was cooking, and Hudson called the ambulance. He asked if she was okay, and she said she was. He told Craig, WTF? His life was wonderful, and he’d met a great girl who was all about it. Craig said Madison had made Austen start doubting himself, and she was a bad person. I have to agree with that one. In Craig’s interview, he said, Madison’s biggest pleasure in life is putting Austen though hell, and we flashed back to that. He said, Austen was finally getting over her and moving on, but somehow this evil sorcerer will never let him go. Andrea joined them, and Austen said, Madison had texted, please tell me you haven’t moved on. Ciara knocked at the door, and Craig said, go away.

Ciara reported back, and Paige said she thought the boys were weird right now. Austen not coming in the hot tub gave her a weird feeling. Andrea said Austen had to move on, and Craig asked if Austen wanted to be a pawn. Austen wondered if he should say anything to Ciara, since he didn’t want to scare her off, but Craig said he couldn’t be honest about this. After the guys were done with their confab, Paige tried to pump Andrea for information, but he said he had no gossip. The conversation was all about how much Austen liked Ciara. In Andrea’s interview, he said, it wasn’t his secret to share. He respected the bro code. In Paige’s interview, she said she hated the whole male species, because they lie. The obligatory turkey legs were served, deep fried. They lifted the turkey legs in the air, and Craig said it was the best cooked meat he’d ever had in his life. Julia asked what Andrea’s intentions were with her girl, and Austen told her, shut up. That was the dumbest thing he ever heard in his life. All this did was put the focus on him, and Amanda asked Austen where it was going with Ciara. Austen got crazy pissed off, and Julia asked why he was mad. If Andrea and Paige were okay with it, why was he angry?

Kyle stood up, and said, nothing shouts Viking like a tri-colored carrot. Paige and Ciara talked in the kitchen, and Julia and Craig talked in the bathroom. Kyle told Jason that he crushed it. I’m always obsessed with the food on these reality shows, but the food is pretty much the only good thing on this show. Jason is impressive. I think he can do much better than Lindsay. Ciara said Austen was weirding her out, and he told her that he’d gotten out of something 4/5 months ago; it was haunting him. He was messed up from it, and wanted to be honest with her. She wondered why he was telling her now, and asked if something had set it off. Were he and his ex still in communication?

Next time, the finale 🎉 doing the limbo (never a good combination with drinking), Lindsay wants to kidnap Jason, Austen says he’s not in a place to be exclusive, Austen yells at Amanda while wearing a tutu and a giant earring (not a very effective costume for being taken seriously), and Julia says she’ll just be eating cheese while they all fight. You don’t think they’ll have a Holiday House, do you?

🧂 Pass the Salt…

What happened on The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City.

https://ew.com/tv/recaps/the-real-housewives-of-salt-lake-city-season-2-episode-10/

🕶 Memory Lane…

Teresa throws shade at her SIL.

🛳 They’re Gonna Need a Bigger Boat…

All about The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip.

The villa:

https://people.com/home/real-housewives-ultimate-girls-trip-triton-luxury-villa/

The Countess:

https://www.etonline.com/rhugts-luann-de-lesseps-on-introducing-other-housewives-to-the-ramona-coaster-and-the-future-of

Ridiculous Ramona:

https://radaronline.com/p/ramona-singer-kenya-moore-porsha-williams-name-rhugt-racist/

🐑 Sheep In the Distance…

Come on down tomorrow for soap and whatever’s on the Runway. Until then, stay safe, stay being dependable, and stay wanting everyone to get along. Why bring more discord into a world that already has enough?

November 12, 2021 – Chase Starts To Figure It Out, G’Day Mate, a Patriarch Departs, Returning Wife, Freed, Quantum Goodbye, More Games, a Balanced Number Of Quotes & Rose Hip

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Sonny sees Spencer at Kelly’s, and says, when Josslyn told him Spencer was getting a job there, he almost didn’t believe her. He’s a workin’ man. Congratulations. Spencer says, congratulations for what? Having a job that needs no experience, and pays accordingly? Sonny says, everybody’s got to start somewhere. He didn’t start at the top. But he’s working; how does it feel? Spencer says, like the worst mistake he ever made in his life.

At the hospital. Maxie says, good morning, to Austin. He returns the greeting, and asks what she’s doing there. Wasn’t she there last night? She says she was, but Bobbie’s car broke down, and she gave her a ride. She thought since she was in the building, she’d say hello, but if he’s busy… He says he’s sorry. He had a really terrible night last night, but it’s nice to see her. Chase walks in and says, Maxie’s saved him a trip to the Deception office. He needs to speak with her and Austin. Austin says they’re kind of in the middle of something, and Chase says, something more important than finding Maxie’s missing daughter?

Valentin flashes back to Austin telling him that Gladys thinks Brook is pulling a scam on him. Gladys comes to his room, and asks how he does it. He must be exhausted, but still looks incredibly handsome. He tells her, what can he say? When she’s around, he perks right up.

Portia goes to The Savoy, and Curtis tells her, good morning, and kisses her. She says, it is now. She’s so happy for him. The audience reaction to the artist was amazing. The Savoy was already on its way to being one of the best spots in town, but last night kicked it into another gear. Curtis says, in more ways than one, and she asks what he means. He says, he may have some unwanted help he needs to get rid of.

At the gallery, Trina gives Ned a flyer for the Photo Ark exhibit. She says, it’s the same ad that’s been running online for weeks (weeks?), but she wanted him to see a hard copy. He says, it looks terrific, and thanks her again for bringing the project to his attention. She says she should be thanking him and ELQ for underwriting the exhibit. It’s so important to her, and she’s thrilled they get to be the gallery that displays it to the people of Port Charles. He says, when you run a large organization, you’re constantly approached for donations because people know they’re tax deductible. It’s always nice when the project is so well-intentioned. He’s proud to see ELQ involved with this. She says he’s also doing this for his wife, right? Because Olivia is a big animal lover? Trina bets he can’t wait to see her face when he brings her tonight.

Olivia looks at the painting Ned gave her, and wonders where she’s going to hang it. Robert comes in, saying, a large gentleman from Belarus said he could come in. He hopes it’s okay. She says, much better than okay, and hugs him. She can’t believe Ned punched him over a stupid, meaningless little kiss. He says, let’s be realistic. That kiss was anything but meaningless.

Chase wants to ask Maxie and Austin questions about the night Louise was kidnapped, and Maxie says they’ve already given statements, and answered a bunch of questions. Chase says, that was before Peter resurfaced, and said he has no idea where his daughter is. That brings them back to square one. Their best shot to find Maxie’s daughter is to revisit the night she was born. Since fake nurse Chloe is dead, that leaves the two of them. Austin asks how he knows Peter’s not lying, and Chase says, Nina said Peter was blackmailing her to find Louise. It doesn’t sound like something he would do if he was lying. Austin says, Peter is malignant and ruthless. There isn’t anything he wouldn’t say or do to pursue his own agenda. Chase says, that sounds like someone else he knows, and Maxie says, okay, that’s enough. She can see Chase is letting his personal feelings color his investigation. Does she need to report him to Mac?

Valentin asks why Gladys would be surprised that he delights in the pleasure of her company. Gladys says she didn’t know how he’d be feeling… physically, and he says he’s a little over being stuck in this hospital bed, so why doesn’t she stick around and entertain him? He’s got nothing but time; tell him a story. She says she’s happy to help him fill some time, and closes the door. She sits next to the bed, and says she’s got a terrific story about her neighbor Ethel’s cousin… but he says, no. Tell him a work story. She says she answers phones for Miss Bossy Pants. She doesn’t do anything as important as him. He says, they both know the assistant knows where all the bodies are buried.

At the Bistro, Brook asks Ned what the plan is for the ELQ vote next week. He asks if she can give him five minutes until the caffeine kicks in, but she says, it’s too important to wait. He says he has plenty of time to strategize over the next week, especially now that Austin has withdrawn his claim to the ELQ shares. The last major threat is gone. She says, Valentin Cassadine is the major threat. You’d better believe he’s spending all this time figuring out how to outmaneuver them. He says, last he checked, Valentin was recovering at GH, and she says, so? That just means he has nothing but time to figure out a way to beat them. Don’t pop the champagne just yet. He says, good point. He’ll call Michael again. She says, he seems distracted, but he says he’s fine. She says, tell his face that. He hasn’t cracked a smile yet. Does this have anything to do with Olivia? He says he walked in on her kissing Robert Scorpio. She says, oh no. Is he sure he didn’t misinterpret it? He says, no, but of course (🍷) he reacted like a jealous fool, and punched Robert in the face, for all the good it did. He thinks it’s time to face the fact his marriage is over.

Robert tells Olivia, they’re friends, good friends. But there’s also something more. It’s a pull, and attraction, call it whatever you like, but now that she kissed him, they can’t deny this any longer. She says he’s right, and going to Monte Carlo with him just made it stronger. He says he woudn’t have called her if he’d known she and Ned were having problems back then, and she says, she and Ned have been having problems for a while. He says he can’t help but notice, they’re drawn to each other when she’s having issues, and she asks what he’s saying. He says she seems to use him not to deal with stuff with Nedly.

Portia asks if Curtis still thinks Linc showing up wasn’t a coincidence, and he says, he’s convinced someone sent him there as a front. Think about this. The band he originally scheduled, cancels out of nowhere with a flimsy excuse. According to Brook, Linc is a pariah in Port Charles, and he shows up with an artist that’s eager to perform in a club that was recently in the news for mob activity. Portia says, when he puts it all together, it sounds way too convenient, and he says, someone must want him to owe Linc a favor. She asks who he thinks might have sent Linc, and he says he thinks it’s like Dante warned. He believes the mob is trying to get a foothold in The Savoy.

Sitting at a table, Sonny asks what prompted Spencer to get the job, and Spencer says his dad put Ava in charge of his trust. He refuses to be under her thumb, so he renounced his inheritance, and all that goes with being a Cassadine, including his father. Sonny says he respects Spencer’s decision not to take the easy way out; he’s being his own person. That’s amazing. He’s proud of Spencer. Spencer says, don’t be too proud. He was thisclose to crawling back to his father, and telling him and Ava whatever they wanted to hear, doing whatever they wanted. Sonny asks, what stopped him? and Spencer says, a friend called him out.

Trina puts out companion books to the exhibit, when Esme walks in, and says, this is so exciting. Trina says she still has a lot to set up for the show tonight, and Esme says she’s so stoked. She’ll be there to cheer Trina on, since she has it all mapped out; it’s Disney+ day, so they’re going to be watching Jungle Cruise. (Plugging the parent company, I see.) Trina says, really? Us too. Esme says, us? and Trina says, her and Joss, maybe Cam. After the exhibit, they’re going back to their dorm room, microwave some popcorn, kick back, and stream the movie. It’s a good way to decompress. Esme says she and Spence are going to watch the movie before the exhibit. Interesting how their plans are the opposite. Trina tells Esme, she wouldn’t say the opposite, but Esme says, she would, which is probably for the best. She and Spence need to do their own thing. Trina says, well, enjoy the movie; she still has a lot to set up. Esme says, if Trina doesn’t mind, she just has one question first. She needs to know exactly what’s going on between Trina and Spencer.

Sonny asks what Spencer’s friend said to make him change his mind, and Spencer says, she made him realize he really does value his self-respect, which is a lot more compelling in theory than the reality of working an eight-hour shift there. Part of him wonders if he should just go back to his father and play nice. It’s just that every time he shows up there, he can’t help but feel, whose life is this? Sonny says, Carly caught him up on everything when he was gone. Spencer’s life now is at Kelly’s because of the decisions he made, good or bad. He has to own up to that, and when he does, then he can figure out where he goes from there.

Trina asks what Esme is talking about; nothing is going on between her and Spencer. Esme says, all she knows, is Spencer gave up his trust fund, and severed all ties with his father. All because of Trina. That doesn’t sound like nothing to her. Trina says she didn’t stick her nose in Spencer’s business. He purposely sought her out, asked for advice, and she gave it. That’s it. Whatever Spencer decided to do, that’s on him. He makes his own decisions. Esme says, not when it comes to Trina. Spence seems to be taking her advice a lot these days. She can’t help but wonder. Is Trina trying to steal her boyfriend?

Chase says, he knows it’s traumatizing for Maxie, but truly believes the only way they’ll solve the case is to revisit the night she gave birth. But if she’s not ready to do that, he understands. Austin says he can’t speak for Maxie, but he’s ready to do it. Maxie says he doesn’t have to, but he says there isn’t anything he wouldn’t do to help her find Louise. Chase thanks him, and says he appreciates Austin’s cooperation. He tells Maxie that she can go, but Maxie says, that’s not going to happen. Someone needs to keep Chase in line. Austin says, go ahead; ask away.

Gladys says Valentin is right. As Brook’s executive assistant, she’s privy to sensitive information that most of the other office drones know nothing about. He asks if it’s sensitive information he should know something about, but she says he has his own assistant, doesn’t he? If he or she isn’t keeping him well-informed, maybe it’s time to find a new one. He could always poach her from Brook. He says, last time she was there, she said she had something important to tell him, then Brook came in and ushered her right out. Brook’s not here now. What did she want to say? She says, it was nothing important… She can’t tell him, because if she does, somebody could get hurt.

Olivia tells Robert, she’s tired of fighting. She just wants to be happy. Is that so wrong? He says, of course (🍷) not – they sit – but she’s not going to find it with him. She says, he makes her laugh, and she knows he cares about her. He says,  both true, but she’s made no secret of the fact she’s followed his career. She likes the adventure and danger. In her eyes, he’s this hero, this larger than life character, this ideal. She says, he knows that’s just a bunch of BS. She sees him as a real person. She sees him as her friend. He asks if she’s telling him, when Ned doesn’t provide her with what she requires at home, she doesn’t turn to him, this fantasy figure? This thing too good to be true? She asks why she wouldn’t want a partner she can count on standing be her side. After everything she’s been through in this life, doesn’t she deserve that? He says, all that and more, and she says she doesn’t get that from Ned. She can’t rely on Ned anymore.

Portia says, Curtis opened the club because he was looking for a fresh start; as a way to leave behind all the danger and violence of his life as a P.I. Now it seems like that danger is knocking on his door again. He says he’s going to slam the door in danger’s face, and she says, how? She knows he likes Sonny and Jason, but if he asks for their protection, this place will still be known for its mob connections. He says he left a message for Linc to call him back. The first thing he needs to know is who Linc is working for. She hopes he finds out. She sees how hard he works for this place. She hates that someone is trying to corrupt it. He takes her hands, and says she’s adorable. She’s been his biggest cheerleader for The Savoy, ever since the first time they came there on Valentin’s Day for one of his last P.I. cases. She says, of course (🍷) she supports him. She sees how happy this place has made him, and hates that someone is trying to come in and disturb the peace he’s found. He says, this is his baby, and he’ll put a stop to anyone who tries to take what’s his.

Ned thanks Brook for the vote of confidence, and she says, they live in the same house. She’s watched him and Olivia over the past few months, and they seemed to be falling back in love. He’s just going to throw in the towel because their problems haven’t gone away? Nobody’s problems just disappear; that’s called being in a relationship, isn’t it? He says he thought they were both fighting for their marriage. Then he suggested they take Leo to a specialist, and Olivia shuts him out. That is not the sign of a healing marriage. From Olivia’s point-of-view, because he didn’t rubber stamp her beliefs, he’s not supporting her. She can’t see he’s only trying to help Leo. He loves that little boy. She asks if it’s occurred to him that maybe Olivia doesn’t need him to solve this problem, and he asks, how can she if she’s not even open to the possibility that Leo might have an issue? Brook says she hasn’t been a mother long, but if a doctor said something was wrong with Bailey, her first reaction would be to be scared. They all know Olivia is a terrific mother. Instead of telling what do, and leaping into action, maybe he should try just listening to her. Help her face whatever fears she’s having. He says, how can he when Olivia goes running off to Robert the first chance she gets? She says, Olivia is his wife, not Robert’s. He has to figure this thing out, or is he telling her that he’d be okay with losing Olivia?

Olivia tells Robert that she’s felt alone so many times in this marriage. When Valentin was trying a hostile takeover of ELQ, Ned just kept putting the company in front of his family, and had the nerve to be angry with her for going to Europe to try and save her own son, when Ned’s daughter was in the hospital at the same time. Then he wrongly assumes they’re having some kind of affair. Does he give her the benefit of the doubt? Does he ask her? No. He jumps right in bed with Alexis. Robert says he thought they worked that out, and she says, they tried. For a while, it seemed like Ned was becoming a man she could trust again, then this whole thing with Leo happens, and once again, he can’t take her side. He says, Ned thinks the world of Leo, and she says, that’s not in question. He’s not being a partner to her. Robert asks, is that the problem? From where he’s standing, it looks like she’s scared.

Spencer tells Sonny, he knows he made a mistake, and he’s paying for it now. He has this humiliating minimum wage job. He turned down Ava’s horrible deal, which would have made his life much easier, but he didn’t want to be under Ava’s control. He feels like he’s doing a pretty good job of manning up here. What else can he do to prove it to Sonny? Sonny says, Spencer broke his trust. It’s going to take a while to get it back. Spencer says, really? That’s all Sonny has to say? Sonny’s not even going to give him a hint where to start? Sonny tells him, stop looking for shortcuts. He always felt Spencer’s father gave him too many privileges. This isn’t about shortcuts; it’s about working hard. He’s got to get used to that.

Valentin asks Gladys, who will get hurt? and she says, she just means gossip in general. When people say things they shouldn’t, others can get hurt. He says, no. The other day, she had something specific to tell him, and Brook rushed her away. Does it have something to do with Brook? Is it something that concerns him? She says, he totally misunderstood what she was saying, and he says he doesn’t know why she’s being evasive, but there’s something she should know. He can be very generous to those who are kind enough to help him. She says, good to know, and he says, likewise, he can be very uncharitable to those who cross him. She needs to ask herself, does she want to be on his bad side?

Portia goes to get some sparkling water, and sees the sketch. She asks Curtis, what happened with that mystery man TJ’s patient who ran into her, and also came there, always asking questions about Curtis? Did he ever show up again? He says not that he’s aware of; why? She says she doesn’t know if it’s worth mentioning. She has no proof; it’s just a feeling. He says he’s a big believer in feelings. Go ahead. She says, a man shows up asking questions about him, and now the mob seems to be making a move on The Savoy. Could they be related? He says he just doesn’t know. According to Nika, the man asked just as many questions about live music as he did about him. On the other hand, he can’t rule anything out. She says she’s got to go to work, but please be careful. He says she knows he will, and she kisses him goodbye. She leaves, and Curtis’s phone rings. He thanks Linc for getting back to him so soon. Linc says, congratulations on his big success last night. It’s all over social media. Curtis says he noticed that. He couldn’t have done anything without Linc’s last minute save. Linc says, The Savoy’s a great spot. His guy really loved playing there. He’s just happy he could connect the two of them. Curtis says, that’s exactly why he called. Why doesn’t Linc come to The Savoy, and they can discuss a potential future partnership?

Sonny tells Spencer, there’s always more than one option in life. Has he considered apologizing to Ava? Spencer says, Sonny did not just suggest that, and Sonny says she’s not his favorite person in the world, but she is the mother of his daughter. It’s not about Ava; it’s about Spencer. Spencer says, so Sonny is saying, if he apologizes to Ava, he’ll trust him again? but Sonny says, this isn’t a transaction. If Spencer apologizes to Ava, he has to do it sincerely because he messed up and he’s going to own up to that. Spencer says he has owned up to it, but Sonny says, Spencer’s behavior has hurt a lot of people, including his daughter. Spencer’s not a kid anymore. He can’t just excuse everything away. He knows better than that, because if he doesn’t, Sonny can’t help him.

Gladys says, if she didn’t know any better, she’d say Valentin was threatening her. He says he doesn’t want to threaten her, but this is her last chance. Please tell him what she knows. She tells him, she’ll say this much; he shouldn’t trust Brook. He says, why not? but she tells him, that’s all she can say. He says, then she disappoints him. Chase comes to the room, and says if Valentin is up for it, he has a few questions. Gladys says, good timing. She and Valentin are done. She jets, and Chase asks if he wants to know. Valentin says, must be happy hour somewhere. What can he do for Chase? Chase asks how well Valentin knows Austin.

Austin says Maxie really went after Chase. He’s only trying to do his job. She says she thinks Chase is a good guy. She’s just sick of everyone being suspicious of Austin. It’s frustrating. Her baby is out there somewhere, and the police are focusing on the wrong guy. He thanks her, and says he’s lucky to have her in his corner. She says, likewise, and Austin sees Gladys waiting for the elevator. He asks if she’s okay, and she says she had the worst morning. He says he’s sorry to hear that. Does she want to get some coffee, and tell him all about it? She says, not today; she has a lot on her plate. Maxie asks if Brook knows she’s not at the office, and Gladys tells her to try lightening up, or she’s going to need a ton of Deception’s wrinkle cream. She gets in the elevator, and Maxie says she didn’t know Austin was friends with Gladys.

Ned tells Brook, of course (🍷) he doesn’t want his marriage to end. He loves Olivia, but if they can’t get on the same page, what chance do they have? She says she knows he wants what’s best for Leo, and so does Olivia. Maybe they could come together on that common ground, and go from there. He says, it takes two people to make a marriage work. He’s beginning to wonder if Olivia’s heart just isn’t in it anymore.

Olivia tells Robert, the only thing she’s afraid of is spending the rest of her life in a marriage with a partner who doesn’t support or trust her. He says, she doesn’t think for a moment Ned might be thinking the same thing? Think for one minute. What if Ned is right about Leo? Simply do what he suggests, and if he’s wrong, he’ll back off. She says, it doesn’t sound so threatening when he says it like that, and he says, he’s always looked at her as a very brave woman. Is she prepared be wrong in this case? She says she would do anything for Leo, and he says, there she has it. She can be the hero in her own story.

Sonny leaves Kelly’s, and Brook is outside. She hugs him, and says she heard what happened to him. She’s so happy to see him with her own eyes. She’s glad he’s home safe. He says, so is he. Michael told him she had a daughter. She says, Bailey; she’s perfect. Every day she’s changing and discovering something new; Brook can’t keep up. He says, it’s a great age. It’s a magical age. If they’re talking, it’s even better, but you don’t want them to be teenagers, because then they start talking back to you. Brook laughs, and Gladys stands by the gate. He tells Brook to bring Bailey by the house, so he can see her, instead of watching Valentin lurking around. She says he’s got it, and looks over to see Gladys. Sonny follows her gaze, and Gladys smiles broadly.

Chase tells Valentin, now that he’s back to work, he’s looking into Maxie’s baby’s kidnapping. Valentin has done business with Austin; has he ever said anything about the case? Valentin says, Austin was particularly helpful when he and Anna visited Pawtuck, investigating the case. He seemed legitimately interested in helping find Louise. Chase thanks him, and says, if he thinks of anything else, Valentin knows where to find him. Valentin says he’s got it, and Chase wishes him a speedy recovery. Brook would never admit it, but he knows she misses having Valentin around the house. Valentin says he knows Chase and Brook are tight, and he’d never ask Chase to betray her trust, but is she okay? She seems a little frazzled. Chase says, she’s definitely stressed about something. Seeing Linc, her old music producer, at The Savoy last night didn’t help. Valentin says, is he still around? He’s awful. Is she okay? Chase says he stepped in, and kept Linc away from Brook. Valentin says, she gave Yuri the slip, huh? She tends to do that. There was one night she got Yuri to build Bailey’s crib, despite the fact that there was plenty other staff who could have done that. That was the night she snuck out for girls night, and of course (🍷) she ended up giving birth to Bailey in a hotel room. If Yuri had been there, he would have made sure she got to a hospital, and Valentin could have been there for the birth of his daughter, but it didn’t happen. She made sure she was all alone.

Robert says he’ll always be there for Olivia, and they hug. Ned walks in, and Robert says, oops, gotta go, and leaves.

Trina says, steal Esme’s boyfriend? She doesn’t know why Esme thinks that, but no. That’s not her. She and Spence are friends, and that’s it. If Esme has a problem with that, she can take it up with him. Esme says, okay then; they’re good. She feels really silly about how much she needed to hear Trina say that, but Trina understands where she’s coming from, right? Trina says, no, she doesn’t, and Esme says, it’s just that certain friendships can push the boundaries of what’s appropriate and what’s not. Spence talking to her about his inheritance and his dad is just way too intimate. Trina asks if Esme is telling her not to be friends with Spencer, and Esme says, she’s just gently suggesting that the next time Spence tries to engage Trina in such an intimate conversation, just remind him that certain topics are off limits for friends of the opposite sex. Trina says, they’ll have to agree to disagree, because if any friend comes to her with a problem, she’s going to help, no question about it. Because that’s who she is. She walks in the back.

Curtis thanks Linc for coming in, and says he knows Linc is a busy man, so he’ll get to the point. Now that he’s launched The Savoy, things are going well, he’s focusing on his next goal. How to make this the number one place in Port Charles to listen to live music. To do that, he’s going to need help; help from someone like Linc, and his many contacts. Linc says he’d be up for that, and Curtis says, before they enter into a partnership, he needs to know he can trust Linc. So he’s giving Linc the opportunity to tell him anything he needs to know about who he does business with. Linc says, if Curtis doesn’t trust him, he can’t partner with Curtis, and starts to leave. Curtis says he’s not going anywhere until he admits  that he wasn’t here by coincidence the other night; someone sent him. Linc says Curtis is right; he owed someone a favor. That’s all. Curtis asks, who? and Linc says, someone who wants to remain anonymous. Curtis says he used to be a cop; after that, a P.I. He could start going through all the skeletons in Linc’s closet if he wanted to. Why not make it easier on both of them, and just talk to him. Is Linc working with the mob? Linc says, no, absolutely not, and Curtis says, then who sent him? Curtis goes around to the other side of the bar, and gets the sketch. He shows it to Linc, and says, was it this man? Linc doesn’t say anything, and Curtis tells him, he’ll take that as a yes. Obviously, Linc knows this man; who is he? Linc tells Curtis, he can’t say, and Curtis says, Linc told him that he’s not with the mob, so let him tell Linc something. There’s no way he’s going to let some jerk muscle his way in on his business. Linc says, he’s just the messenger, and Curtis slaps the sketch on the bar, and grabs Linc by the lapels. He says, whoever he is, he’s been asking questions about him and his family all over town. Who is he? Marshall yells, let him be. He points to Linc, and says, you, get lost. He tells Curtis, I’m the one you want, my man.

Ned asks what Olivia and Robert were talking about, and Olivia says, they were just clearing the air. He hands her the flyer, and says, there’s an exhibit tonight at the Jerome gallery. It’s being underwritten by ELQ Charities. If she can make it, she should come. She says, ELQ is making a matching donation to the local animal shelter. He says he knows it’s an important charity to her, and leaves. She looks at the painting.

Trina comes back out, and says, Esme’s still here? Esme says, because she wants Trina to know she respects her being such a good friend to Spence, and she appreciates Trina listening to what she had to say. She hopes Trina will think about it. She’ll see her at the show tonight. Break a leg. I’d be afraid Esme meant that literally. Outside, Esme uncurls her palm, and there are bloody crescents where her nails have dug into it.

Gladys says she feels like Sonny has been avoiding her, and Brook says she wonders why. Gladys says, they have to catch up. They have so much to talk about. He suggests she start with her telling Cyrus that he and his family were harboring Dev illegally. She says, it’s just something that came out in conversation, and he says, he bets. He tells Brook to bring Bailey by, and leaves. Brook asks if Gladys really thought Sonny would side with her over his niece.

Austin tells Maxie that he ran into Gladys at The Savoy the other night, and they sat at the bar and chatted. She seems like somebody who could use someone to talk to right now. Maxie says, take her advice, steer clear of Gladys. She’ll do whatever it takes to get ahead. He says, this is kind of ironic, coming from the woman who calls Brook Lyn Quartermaine her BFF. He doesn’t know what Maxie sees in her, but he doesn’t question it; he just accepts it. She can’t afford him the same courtesy? She says, she’s in his corner, remember? Gladys is shady. Austin says, at least she’s up front about it, and walks off.

Brook asks Gladys what that comment to Sonny was about, and Gladys swears she hasn’t told anyone Valentin isn’t Bailey’s father. Brook says, keep it that way, or Pauly’s gonna be pissed. Gladys storms into Kelly’s, and Chase asks, who’s Pauly? Brook turns around to see him standing behind her.

On the phone, Valentin tells Yuri that Brook is in danger from Peter August. It’s imperative that he watch her every move; everyone she sees, everywhere she goes. It’s the only way they’re going to protect her. Valentin is counting on him. He needs to know every last detail of her day.

Brook tells Chase, they were just discussing some Deception business. Just because he’s a detective, doesn’t mean he gets to sneak up on people like that. How long was he standing there? He says he just got here. Why is she lying to him? She says she has no idea what he’s talking about, and he says, she’s lying about the night Bailey was born.

On Monday, Brando tells Gladys that it’s rude to turn down an invitation, Scotty asks if someone wants to walk out of jail free as a bird, Valentin says he and Anna can’t stop from making a deal with the devil, and Curtis wants to know what someone is doing here.

🐨 Where’s Ingo…?

The saga is here and gone. Apparently, it wasn’t the transphobia that got him in the end.

It didn’t help though.

His side.

🥀 Final Bow…

Another soap legend laid to rest.

https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/tv/2021/11/10/jerry-douglas-died-young-and-restless-patriarch-john-abbott/6381565001/

🍊 Like a Bad Penny…

It’s probably like childbirth. She forgot how painful it is, so she’s doing it again.

https://ew.com/tv/real-housewives-of-orange-county-season-16-trailer-heather-dubrow-returns/

And her first order of business.

🦋 Gilded Cage Opened…

Normally, I might not care that much about something like this, but when I heard she had an IUD put in against her will, plus she wanted more children, that was just no. I’m very happy to hear this nightmare is over for her.

https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/celebrities/2021/11/12/britney-spears-conservatorship/6379139001/

🏃🏻 Last Leap…

He was one of the busiest men in Hollywood.

🐙 Playing a Second Round…

Contains a SPOILER for the ending of Squid Games, and it’s at the beginning of the article. DO NOT enter here if you’re still contemplating watching it for the first time.

https://ew.com/tv/squid-game-creator-hwang-dong-hyuk-alternate-ending-season-2-plans/

🐣 Quotes of the Week

Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer’s day, listening to the murmur of the water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time. – John Lubbock

If you do not tell the truth about yourself you cannot tell it about other people. – Virginia Woolf

Develop success from failures. Discouragement and failure are two of the surest stepping stones to success.Dale Carnegie

You have to learn the rules of the game. And then you have to play better than anyone else. – Albert Einstein (The first guy to figure out Survivor…)

We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty. – Maya Angelou

You have to love dancing to stick to it. It gives you nothing back, no manuscripts to store away, no paintings to show on walls and maybe hang in museums, no poems to be printed and sold, nothing but that single fleeting moment when you feel alive. – Merce Cunningham

The old man was nuttier than a squirrel turd. – Little Onion (Joshua Caleb Johnson), The Lord God Bird

Have the courage to say no. Have the courage to face the truth. Do the right thing because it is right. These are the magic keys to living your life with integrity. – W. Clement Stone

🦥 Dreaming On…

Time to pull down the blinds on another workweek or just keep doing what you’re doing, if that’s your chosen path. See you at Dead time. Until then, stay safe, stay firm in your ideals, and stay knowing it’s not about shortcuts; it’s about working hard.

November 5, 2021 – Spencer Dethrones Himself, a Goodbye, Proud Papa, Allegedly, New Focus, Paid For, New Wives, Winter Louse, Lala’s Lot, Yet More Costumes, 3×3 Quotes & Blue

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Cameron switches the sign on Kelly’s door to open, and Josslyn comes in the side. He asks what she’s doing there this early, and she says she’s wishing him a good morning, and kisses him.

At the gallery, Trina says she’s dying to show Portia these new photos. She doesn’t know how the photographer does it. She doesn’t know how he has the time or the energy. Portia says she’s sure he gets some of his energy from a healthy breakfast, and holds up a bag from the MetroCourt. Trina says she forgot they were meeting for breakfast. She’s so, so sorry. Portia says, there’s no need to apologize. It’s totally worth it to see that she’s so invested, and in such a worthy cause. Trina says she means, as opposed to a boy?

Esme and Spencer come into Kelly’s, and Esme says, get a room. Spencer says, they get an A for enthusiasm, and a solid B for technique, and Esme says, they’re so cute together, stealing kisses. She says they’ll leave Cameron and Josslyn to it, and walks to the counter with Spencer. Josslyn says, a solid B. At least they didn’t get sent abroad to learn how to kiss. Cameron wonders where it’s written that every time they’re alone, they get interrupted, and she says she doesn’t know, but they’re both pretty resourceful, so they should do something about that.

Shawn gives Alexis a gift bag, and says, a gift for her; inspected and approved. She jostles the bag, and says, usually nail files to break out of prison are heavier. She asks, what’s the occasion? and he says he couldn’t get her nephew arrested, so he’ll settle for making him pay.

Nikolas and Ava come into the MetroCourt, where Carly is working on something. Sonny asks if she’s busy, and she hugs him, saying, she missed him. He says, he missed her too. The weather was bad, then it wasn’t. He was up in the air, and here he is. How does that work? She says, it works perfect. Tell her, how did things go with Cyrus? He says they’ll get into that later, and asks, what’s going on with Joey Novak? She says, not much to tell. He was a jerk, he was dealt with, so thank you. He says he hasn’t dealt with Joey yet. Ava and Nikolas approach them, and Ava says she heard about the incident with Joey Novak at The Savoy. If he’s that brazen, it can only mean one thing, right? Another mob war is heating up. So does Sonny still think Avery is safer with him?

Shawn says, the last time he saw Alexis, they had that conversation about Nikolas, and she says, regarding his involvement with Hayden’s shooting. He says he went to Spencer, and told him that his father arranged the attempt on Hayden’s life. Spencer took the bait and went straight to his father. Then he had Spinelli record the conversation. She says she finds it hard to believe Nikolas would come clean about what he did to Hayden, and he says, there was so much evasion and damage control, it was clear Spencer knew his father was guilty. She asks how Spencer took it, and he says, it was crushing. She asks, what about Nikolas? and he says, Nikolas covered all his bases; even Hayden knew what he did. He paid her off. So he’s going to use this money, and do the right thing.

Ava says, she and Nikolas feel, at least for the time being, Avery is much safer with them, and Sonny says, Avery is safe where she is at home. Ava says, she has more than one home; he knows that. Sonny suggests instead of trying to spend more time with Avery, they should find a family counselor for Spencer. That way, all three of them can have a little more peace. Sonny tells Carly, let’s get out of here, and they leave. Ava says, my God, the hypocrisy is staggering, and Nikolas says, still, Sonny could be right about Spencer.

Portia says, Trina isn’t kidding about these pictures; they are amazing. She’s so proud her daughter took the initiative to bring a National Geographic photographer of Joel Sartore’s stature to Port Charles. She looks at the tablet, and says, look at that one, and Trina says, that’s a golden snub-nosed monkey, and it’s one of the most endangered species on the planet. Sometimes, the females will deliberately have affairs with the reticent males behind the lead male’s back. Portia says, that takes some strategic skills, and Trina says, it has to for survival. Portia tells her, just be careful, and Trina says, right. You’d think she was going into the wilderness to photograph these animals herself, or is Portia talking about Spencer?

Cameron says, Spencer is there early, and asks if he’s trying to make up for going AWOL the other day. Spencer says, it hasn’t escaped his attention that today is payday, and Cameron says he’s sorry, but there’s no paycheck for Spencer. Spencer says, what? and Cameron takes an envelope out of his pocket, saying, congratulations on Spencer’s first earned money ever. (How is he getting paid when he just started, and ditched half a day? Hell, I’ll work at Kelly’s.) Spencer looks at the check, and says, wow, this is paltry, and Cameron says, he’s only worked there two days. What does he expect? Spencer shows Esme, and asks how he’s supposed to live on this, and she says, he’s not. He’s supposed to make things right with his father, play nice with Ava, and go back to being the prince he was born to be.

Shawn says, as much as he’d like to turn Nikolas in to the cops, there’s not enough evidence, and Alexis says, then he’s better off holding the threat over Nikolas’s head, and charging him a fortune to be quiet. He says he’s glad she agrees, and she says, typically, she’s not a fan of blackmail, but Nikolas deserves that in this case. So what is he going to do with his windfall? Is he going to buy a yacht? He says, no, the money isn’t coming to him personally. He wouldn’t take a dime from that corrupt bastard. Nikolas is setting up a trust for a non-profit. Shawn has some ideas for the greater good. She says, that is genius, and he laughs, thanking her. He asks if she’d care to join him as one of the administrators.

Ava asks if something else happened with Spencer, and Nikolas says, they had another confrontation. Ava says, about us? and Nikolas flashes back to Spencer questioning him about Hayden. She asks, what happened between him and Spencer?

Spencer says he can’t go back to his father, besides, Ava’s the one who controls the trust. She says, then go to Ava, but he says, he can’t give in to her. There has to be another way. He approaches Cameron, and says he needs more money than this. Cameron says he’ll get it, and Spencer says, great. When? Cameron says, a week from today, and Spencer asks if he can have an advance. Cameron says, no. Why does he need an advance? Spencer says, a decent lawyer can mean the difference between freedom and prison, and Cameron says he only passes out the checks; he doesn’t sign them. It’s not in his power to give Spencer an advance. He’s sorry. Esme tells Spencer to do what he needs to do, and after, they’ll get a hotel room and celebrate. Spencer asks if he can borrow Cameron’s car, but Cameron says, no. Borrow one of the delivery bikes. Does he know how to ride one? Spencer says he does, and Cameron tells him, wear a helmet. His mom’s a stickler about traumatic brain injuries.

Trina says she knows Portia is suspicious of Spencer. Good news, she is too. Ever since she found out he’s the one who’s been terrorizing Ava, she’s been keeping him at arm’s length. Portia says she’s glad to hear it. He’s a very troubled young man. Trina says, he’s just spoiled and angry; he’s not a psychopath. Portia tells her, she didn’t say he was a psychopath, but he needs help, and if he comes to Trina for it, she’s unqualified. Trina says, then Portia should know, he came to her the other night, but she told him she’s not a shoulder for him to cry on. Portia doesn’t have to worry about her; she’s got this. Portia says she trusts Trina to make good choices, and she’s proud of Trina, for everything; for the magnificent young woman she’s become. Trina says Portia and Taggert can take some credit for that, and Portia laughs and says, can we now? She has to get to work, and tells Trina not to forget breakfast; it’s the most important meal of the day. Trina says, some things never change, and she and Portia hug.

Carly and Sonny get out of the elevator at the hospital. Carly needs to pick up a prescription, but says she wants to hear more about Sonny’s meeting with Cyrus. He says, the only important thing Cyrus said to him was warning him about Joey Novak. He knew Joey was going to make a move, but he didn’t think it was going to be this stupid, or this quick. She says, it doesn’t make any sense. Joey approached her, and the next thing she knows, he was beaten within an inch of his life. So if Sonny’s not the one who ordered the attack, who was?

Esme sits down with Josslyn, and says, sorry if she overstepped with the get a room thing. Sometimes her mouth works faster than her brain. She thought she was being funny, and it wasn’t. Josslyn says, okay, and Esme says she was hoping they could put the tension between them in the rear view and start over. Josslyn says she’s got a lot of work to do, and Esme says she’ll let Josslyn do that. Esme goes over to Cameron, and tells him that Josslyn’s still upset with her. He says, she’ll get over it, and Esme says, he thinks so? He says, or she won’t; what does Esme care? She says, they’re Spence’s friends, and she wants to be friends with them too. She was going to pitch the cabin idea again, but Josslyn didn’t even give her a chance; she just shut Esme down. If they could all just get away for a day or two… He says, it’s a nice idea, but how are they supposed to do that, when she and Spence are having a hard time making rent? She says, they’ll figure it out, and if he and Josslyn would be more comfortable with separate bedrooms, she’s sure they can be accommodated. He asks why they’d need that, and she says she gets it. He’s a real gentleman that way.

Spencer comes into the gallery with a helmet in his hand, and Trina says, he rode a bike there? Did his chauffeur call in sick? He says he borrowed a delivery bike, and she says, and here he is – again. He says he’s not stalking her, if that’s what he’s implying, and she says, isn’t stalking kind of his thing? He says he deserved that. He’s not actually there to see Trina; he wants to talk to Ava. She asks why he needs to do that, and he says, he needs to tell Ava that he accepts her marriage to his father. She asks who he thinks he’s fooling. He wants his money.

Nikolas says, he and Spencer argued about something that happened years ago, long before Ava was in the picture. He’s afraid he’s lost Spencer for good, but she says, Spencer might think that he hates Nikolas right now, but he will cool down. He has to, right? He needs his father’s financial support. He says he doesn’t want Spencer to just come back for money, but she says, beggars can’t be choosers. She knows it’s not the most desirable or admirable way to rebuild their relationship, but it is a beginning. Spencer will come home to him.

Alexis tells Shawn, congratulations on turning her nephew’s wrongdoing into something really good. The non-profit is going to be amazing, she knows it, but she can’t administer from there. He asks if Nikolas didn’t offer to fix it for her, and she says, with that awesome gubernatorial pardon, if she keeps her mouth shut about Hayden. He says, how about it? but she says she can’t. He asks, why? It seems like she had a pretty good life out there. Doesn’t she want it back?

Portia goes in to see Joey, and introduces herself. She says he had an extremely rough night last night, but he’s going to be okay. Can he communicate to her his level of pain? He grimaces, and she says she can take care of that, and adjusts his intravenous medication. He says, why… what… and she says, someone attacked him last night outside The Savoy nightclub. The police will want to talk to him at some point. His pain meds should kick in soon, and she’ll be back to check on him in a little while. She leaves.

Carly tells Sonny, whoever went after Joey moves fast. She’d barely gotten home from The Savoy, when Dante was knocking on her door, wanting to ask her questions. He’s going to want to talk to Sonny. Sonny says he expected it, but before he does anything else, he needs to see Joey. Portia comes by, and says hi, and Sonny asks how she is. She says, Curtis told her what happened at The Savoy. Is Carly doing all right after the incident? Carly says she’s fine, and Portia asks if Sonny is there about Mr. Novak. Sonny says, first of all, that incident should have never happened, and if she could tell Curtis he apologizes? She says she’s sure Curtis would appreciate it, and would tell Sonny that it’s not necessary. It’s good to see them both. She leaves, and Carly says, what’s next? and he says he’s going to end this. He’s going to see Joey right now.

Joey’s buddy asks if he’s getting any good drugs, and Joey says, not good enough; it hurts all over. It just happened so fast. He was just talking to her at the club, he went to get his car, and then, he doesn’t know. Dude asks if Joey remembers who got him. How many of them were there? Sonny’s guy Frank opens the door, and Sonny is there. Dude says, Mr. Corinthos, how are you this fine morning? Joey just woke up. Please tell him… Sonny says, take a hike, and dude jets. Sonny tells Frank, close the blinds, and grabs the nurse call button so Joey can’t use it. He says, here’s the thing. Joey threatened his wife, and there’s no coming back from that. He tells Frank to wait outside, and Joey says, he told Sonny’s guy last night, from now on he’ll stay away; he gives Sonny his word. Sonny says, from now on doesn’t fix what he did last night. Joey says he’s sorry. It was a mistake. He was angry and grieving. Sonny says, he should be sorry, but that’s more than his uncle; he wasn’t sorry at all. As a matter-of-fact, he tried to take out Carly and Jason, right up until his car blew up. But does Joey see what he’s talking about? He leans closer, and says, if Joey threatens anybody he cares about, he’ll make Joey disappear. Joey says, all right. What does Sonny want to make this go away?

Carly goes the reception desk, and Elizabeth says she heard Nina was arrested. Carly says, arrested, extradited, and released the next day on bail. Elizabeth says, after keeping Sonny away from Carly all those months, now she’s allowed to walk around free? Carly says, it’s unbelievable, and Elizabeth says, she must be furious. Carly says she’s beyond furious, and Elizabeth says, honestly, if it happened to her, nothing would stop her from destroying the person who came between her and her family.

Cameron says, he’s a gentlemen? Thank you? Esme says he knows what she means. It’s really sweet, like a Jane Austen hero. Honestly, she wishes she and Spence would have waited before they got so close. Sex is no way to resolve disagreements. A way to put them aside, but talking them out is so much healthier. So it’s good he and Joss will have that foundation of communication before they take it to the next level. Cameron says he needs to work in the kitchen, and Esme goes back to Josslyn’s table. She asks how studying is going, and Josslyn says she’s learning a lot. Esme says, about what? and Josslyn says, manipulative conniving women who will do or say anything to get what they want no matter who they hurt. Esme says she knows they got off on the wrong foot, but that’s a little… Josslyn holds up her book, and says, Lady Macbeth. Esme says, right. Out, damned spot. Josslyn says, yet Esme thought she was talking about her. Esme might want to think about that. Esme says, even lady M had a conscience, like she does, and Josslyn tells her, saying she’s just like Lady Macbeth is not the best case she could make for herself. Esme asks if they can’t just start over, and Josslyn asks if she has a time machine. Esme says, think about it. The four of them going away together. They can get some girl time away from the boys, and understand each other better. Josslyn says she thinks they understand each other just fine, and Esme says, if she’s worried about approaching Cam… Josslyn asks why she’d be worried, and Esme says, he’s already on board with them renting a cabin for a few days, separate rooms for Joss and Cam, of course (🍷).

Alexis tells Shawn that she misses her family. She sees them all the time, but it’s not the same. She misses being at home with them around the dinner table, her girls fighting, her disapproving of Kristina’s life choices, just so Kristina can throw prison in her face. He says, it is a great house, and she says, Julian bought it for her when his mafia ties blew up her other one. They sit, and he says, she must have some happy memories of the place. She says, most of them are pleasant. She thinks like, fifty-one and a half percent. What does he like about it? He says, the kitchen, and she says, it had a kitchen? She knew it did; she almost burned it down. He says he enjoys it. He turns on the music, and whips up a couple of meals for TJ and Molly, who barely get to eat. She asks what he makes, and he says he could tell her, but it’s probably different from what she’s eating there, and would be a cruel and unusual punishment. Seriously, he loves the place. She gets up, and says she does miss it, and he says he knew it. She says, that is not a positive statement, but he says, it could be. Walk out of this place, and help him make the non-profit a force for the good. She says, it’s different for him. He bested Nikolas, and made him pay for it. He’s her nephew. She tried instill a sense of right and wrong in him, and failed miserably, and she’s not going to let him be the reason she gets out of there.  

Ava says, Nikolas knows she’s right. Soon Spencer will realize he misses the life he was born to. Nikolas says, when Spencer was younger, he had a distain for the locals; he called them the townies. He won’t want to see himself as one of them. She says, they can use his own snobbery against him, and he says, then he should take as a win if Spencer comes back for the money. She says, not if, my love, when, and he says, when he comes back for the money.

Spencer tells Trina, it’s not about the money. He really wants to make peace with Ava. Trina says, no he doesn’t. She thought they’d gotten somewhere when he apologized for using their friendship, hoping she wouldn’t hate him. She has to hand it to him; it sounded like he meant it. He says he did, but she says, it’s clear to her that he has no respect for her or Ava. What is it he really wants? Is the job too hard? Is it beneath him? Because he went from swearing he’d never speak to Ava again, to coming in here, helmet in hand, hoping to snow Ava into believing he accepts her back in his father’s life. He says, okay, yes, he needs money, and she says, good luck with that. He says, for a lawyer, so he can get a place for him and Esme. They have no time alone. They can’t even afford to go out to eat. This is no way to live. She says, oh my God, he is so pathetic. He’s nothing more than a spoiled child of privilege, and worst of all, he’s a liar. He wants to trick Ava into thinking he’s accepted her into their family, so he can get some cash, so he doesn’t have to slum it, working for a living like the rest of them. She’s done with him. Get out.

Sonny tells Joey, his terms are that he wants everything. Everything that’s left of Joey’s uncle’s organization; Novak’s holdings here and offshore. Joey says, but that’s worth… and Sonny says, he knows what it’s worth. That’s what he wants. Joey says, the family… and Sonny says, the family’s not going to take it well, but that’s not his problem. That’s between Joey and them. Joey said he’d heard Sonny changed, since he got back from where he was. Sonny says, he did, and sits on the bed, leaning on Joey’s arm in the process. Joey makes in pain sounds, and Sonny says, sorry. He didn’t mean to do that; out of habit. He did change. The old him would have handled this differently. The new him is handling it this way. He’s letting Joey walk out of here, but if he does anything like this again, if he threatens anyone Sonny loves, Sonny is going to take him out. Joey says, okay, and Sonny says, okay what? Joey says, he’ll give Sonny everything; all of it is his. Sonny says, you know what? He laughs, and tells Joey, he never thought he’d say this, but great doing business with him. He opens the blinds and looks out. He says, Joey never should have tried to fill his uncle’s shoes. Has he ever heard of a word called hubris? A friend of his told him about it while he was away. Hubris. It’s like arrogance on steroids, and you know what? It’s made way better men than Joey go down fast and hard. He leaves.

Carly says, she would have thought Elizabeth would advise her to forgive and forget, and Elizabeth says, then she would be wrong. Carly says she’ll see Elizabeth around, and Elizabeth says she really hopes Carly gets the justice she deserves. Carly leaves, and Portia comes over to Elizabeth. She says she wants to thank Elizabeth again for the sketch she did of the mystery man. Elizabeth says she’s happy to help. Did Curtis recognize him? Portia says, Curtis didn’t, but TJ did. So did the bartender at The Savoy.

Esme says she knows she and Josslyn can find some common ground. All they have to do is spend a bit more time together. With her and Spence being in such close quarters at his grandmother’s, she knows it would be good for Spence to get away too. Josslyn says, it sounds like what Esme needs is some alone time, just her and Spencer. Esme says she understands why Josslyn is nervous, but maybe if she and Cam spend some time alone together, she can get past whatever’s stopping her from being… Josslyn says, from being what? and Esme says, from being as beautiful, and as close as two people can be. She says she has to study too, for her internship. She needs to learn everything there is to know about the criminally insane. Surprisingly, Josslyn doesn’t say something like, there probably isn’t much for her to learn on that front, and Esme leaves. Josslyn goes over to Cameron, and he says he was wondering what she was doing later. She says, funny. She was just going to ask him the same thing.

Nikolas says he has to wait Spencer out, and Ava says, exactly. Let him come crawling back. Trust her; he will. Nikolas thanks her, and says she makes him feel like he might actually get his son back. He sees Shawn come in, and says, if she’ll excuse him… She says, business? and he says, business. He walks over to Shawn, and gives him a manila envelope, saying, it’s all set up the way Shawn wants it. The money’s in a trust, the non-profit has been filed, Shawn is the administrator, and has the ability to appoint other administrators as he sees fit. Shawn says he knows a good lawyer who will look at it, and Nikolas says, it’s perfectly legal. So they’re finished. Shawn says, for now. Nikolas asks what Shawn means, and Shawn says, he means if the non-profit needs additional funding, Nikolas will provide the funds. And if Nikolas ever screws him over again, he promises Nikolas will be very, very sorry. He leaves, and Ava walks over. She says, now Nikolas can tell her what that was all about – the truth. He says, okay, but he’d rather do it someplace quieter. She says, anywhere he likes, and he says, just after he makes a call.

Spencer says, Trina, please, and she asks why he’s still there. She asked him to leave. She’s working on a very important project, and doesn’t have time for him. He says he’s sorry. He doesn’t know what to do, and she says, she told him what to do. She told him, go to work, and be his own man. Not Esme’s boyfriend, and not his father’s son. Not some money grubbing little phony. Be himself. Be the guy who convinced her to go to her graduation party, not the creep who rigged the sprinklers to shower her with fake blood. He says he’s apologized for that a million times, and she says she knows. When she first met him, or rather when she met Victor, sure, he was lie, but he was a much better person than this mess she’s seeing in front of her. If he wants to do right, find him. Find the part of him that rises above the selfish idiot she sees in front of her. Be the person who learns from his mistakes, and be a better person, the bigger one. One she might be able to respect, and maybe someday call her friend. This person he is now is no one she wants to know.

Nikolas and Ava walk into the gallery, and Ava says she takes it he’s there to see Trina. He says, actually he was looking for her, and Ava says, is that so? Nikolas says, don’t tell him that he’s finally going to make peace with Ava. Spencer looks at Trina.

Josslyn says, her dorm room’s out, and Cameron says he thought Trina was busy with the art exhibit. Josslyn says, she is, except when she’s not. Trina’s schedule has become completely unpredictable. What about his house? He says, tonight’s his mom’s birthday, and she says, happy birthday to his mom. A parental birthday party is probably not the best opportunity for alone time. He says they have just a little party and cake planned, but after that, his mom is going out with friends. She says, and his brothers? and he says, they’re at sleepovers. So does she want? She says, yeah, she does. Esme watches.

Spencer says, he just wants to tell them, he’s happy Nikolas is with Ava, and Nikolas says, he’s glad to hear that. Spencer says he also wanted to let them both know that he no longer wishes to be a prince. He doesn’t want one single filthy penny of their family’s money. From now on, he intends to find his own way in the world, and he will. Nikolas says, he’s proud… and Spencer says, as of now, he’s no longer his father’s son. He’s no longer Nikolas’s son. He starts to cry, and says he’s no longer a Cassadine. Goodbye, Nikolas. Goodbye, Ava. He thanks Trina for what she said. She showed him the way, and he’ll be forever grateful. He walks out, and everyone just looks sad.

Shawn comes back to Spring Ridge, and Alexis says, just in time for her to thank him for this beautiful scarf. (It is very pretty.) She puts it on, and he says he hates to say, you’re welcome, at the same time he’s asking a favor. He holds out the envelope, and asks if she’ll have a look. She says, sure, taking the papers out, and sitting down. He says, Nikolas swears it’s legit, but he doesn’t trust Nikolas as far as he could throw him. She says she thinks he could probably throw Nikolas a fair distance, and looks through the papers. She says, it’s a first glance, but it seems to be in order. It looks like Shawn is the administrator of a well-funded nonprofit. He says, he can appoint other administrators. Consider his offer on the table permanently. The warden comes in, and says he has some good news. The governor issued Alexis a pardon. Alexis seems skeptical, and he says he’s just as surprised as she is, but it’s official. She’s going to be released.

Portia tells Elizabeth, she doesn’t know what it is, but there’s something about that man in the sketch. Or maybe she’s overreacting to a coincidence. Elizabeth says, want to know what she thinks? Trust her instincts. The elevator comes, and Portia says, good advice. She thanks Elizabeth, and gets in.

In another elevator, Sonny says he doesn’t think Joey is going to do anything stupid like that again, but Carly asks if he’s met the man; he’s pretty stupid. Sonny says, but he’s alone; he has no back up. Carly asks what Sonny did, and he says he took everything the Novaks had; their holdings, their people, everything. She says, really? and he laughs and says, yeah. She asks what he thinks the Novaks will say about that, and he says, to him, probably nothing. To Joey, probably a lot. She says, so instead of eliminating him, Sonny gave him a fate worse than death, and Sonny says, mercy is a funny thing. She says, just when she thought he couldn’t impress her more. Did Joey give him any idea who attacked him? He says, not at all, and she says, if it wasn’t Sonny, and it wasn’t her, who did it?

On Monday, Esme asks Spencer exactly how close he got to someone, Peter tells Britt there’s only one way off the island for her, Diane says it sounds like Carly misses being the one in charge, and Sonny says there’s something else he can do for someone.

😢 Ciao, Papa…

A sweet tribute from a loving son.

🎶 On a Happier Note…

The circle of life and all that.

👠 Picture Of Privilege…

I hate to say it, but it sounds like something that would come out of Ramona’s mouth.

💎 Phew…

Out of the hotseat and into the courtroom. Maybe.

💸 The Kindness Of Almost Strangers…

They were probably afraid of a lawsuit.

💰 The Wives You Didn’t Know You Needed…

Carolyn Stanbury? Maybe Lindsay Lohan? Excessive spending? Count me in.

https://autos.yahoo.com/autos/bravos-real-housewives-dubai-announcement-143820073.html

🤪 Old Frat Boy House…

These people all need to do something more meaningful with their lives. And probably get therapy.

Ciara From ‘Winter House’ Says Austen Kroll ‘Doesn’t Really Want’ Lindsay Hubbard – but Will They Sleep Together Again?

🍸 First World Problems…

Oh just cry, eat some ice cream, and move on.

🎃 Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop…

More costumes. From the soap world.

Halloween personified.

https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/celebrities/2021/10/29/heidi-klum-halloween-costume-2021-video-exclusive-pics/6175859001/

👩🏽‍💻 Quotes of the Week

Leaders who win the respect of others are the ones who deliver more than they promise, not the ones who promise more than they can deliver. – Mark A. Clement

No man can tell whether he is rich or poor by turning to his ledger. It is the heart that makes a man rich. He is rich according to what he is, not according to what he has. – Henry Ward Beecher

It is mental slavery to cling to things that have stopped serving their purpose in your life. – Chinonye J. Chidolue

Some people believe holding on and hanging in there are signs of great strength. However, there are times when it takes much more strength to know when to let go and then do it. – Ann Landers

There are worse crimes than burning books. One of them is not reading them. – Ray Bradbury

If you don’t believe me, then google it. – Cesar Faison (Anders Hove), General Hospital

If you put the federal government in charge of the Sahara Desert, in 5 years there’d be a shortage of sand. – Milton Friedman

Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced. – James Baldwin

We’re at different points in our life, because we’re actually at different points in our life. – Robby Fakhouri, 90 Day Fiancé: The Single Life

🃏 Knowing When To Fold ‘Em…

Halloween is over – hello, left over fun size special dark Hershey bar – and it’s only a breath before we roll into what’s known as the holiday season. Try not to forget that little holiday called Thanksgiving. It always gets lost in the shuffle. See you in the Dead zone, but until then, stay safe, stay uninfluenced by so-called influencers, and stay remembering, just because someone is spoiled and angry, doesn’t mean they’re a psychopath. Most of the time.

November 3, 2021 – Sonny Visits Cyrus In Flatland, Erika’s Story Comes To a Close, Why Can’t I Look Away & Boogie

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Anna looks in Valentin’s room window, and Porta tells her, Dr. Haddad said the surgery was very successful. She was able to remove all the bullet fragments. Anna says, good. So Valentin’s going to be all right? Portia says they have reason to be optimistic, and Anna says, he’s astonishingly resilient. Can she go in and see him? Portia says, sure. As Anna knows, she and Brook have been given familial privileges. Just encourage him to get some rest. Anna says she’ll try, but she’s not promising he will.

Anna goes in, and sits next to Valentin’s bed. She puts her hand over his, and he opens his eyes, saying, Anna. She asks if he missed her.

Chase walks past the reception desk, and Elizabeth says, looking good. How’s he feeling? He says, great. Too bad the doctors don’t agree.

Carly and Olivia walk into The Savoy, and Carly says, so this is their competition. Olivia says, hardly; they don’t serve food. They sit at a table, and Olivia says she’s so glad Carly agreed to come out tonight. She hears they have a spectacular bartender. Maybe they can make her an offer and steal her for the MetroCourt. Curtis says, not going to happen. He knows how to keep his employees happy. Olivia says he can’t blame a girl for trying, and Carly says, this place is great. She’s only heard good things. He thanks her, and says, stay tuned. He’s just getting started.

Marshall sits in Kelly’s, and looks at something on his phone about November 11. Maxie walks in, and joins Brook at a table. She asks where Yuri is, and Brook says, in the kitchen. The chef is from Belarus; go figure. She looks at her phone, and says, Gladys has been blowing up her phone all day. Please tell her that she’s come up with a plan to stop Gladys blackmailing her, so she doesn’t have to declare bankruptcy.

At the Savoy, Austin sits at the bar, when Gladys approaches, and asks for the house special cocktail. She tells Nika to only use the good stuff and keep her tab open. She puts Brook’s credit card on the bar, and says she doesn’t have to worry about the credit limit on this baby. She sees Austin, and says she knows him from GH. She was visiting a friend in ICU, Valentin Cassadine. He says she was, and she said she was family. She says, yeah, she shouldn’t have done that, but she really needed to talk to him. He laughs and says, of course (🍷) she did. It’s nice to see you again, Gladys Corbin. She says he remembered her name. It’s just Gladys, by the way. He says, any friend of Valentin’s…

Olivia tells Carly, it feels so good to be a customer instead of a host. They don’t have to take care of all the details. Carly asks what’s going on with her, and Oliva asks what she’s talking about. She’s just looking forward to relaxing with a lovely cocktail. Any chance of getting Sonny out for a drink? She’s barely spoken to him since he came back from the dead. Carly says, Sonny’s out of town. He’s catching up with an old acquaintance.

At Flatland Federal Prison, the guard tells Sonny that his phone has to be off for the duration of the visit, and Sonny shows him it’s off, saying, it’s going to be a short visit anyway. Sonny sits across from Cyrus, and they pick up the phones. Cyrus says, Sonny Corinthos. How does it feel to return from the dead? Sonny says, better than being locked up in here for life, and smiles.

Chase tells Elizabeth, he just had another check-up, and the doctor still won’t sign off on him going back to active duty. This extra caution has Finn written all over it. She says, he may be a little overprotective, but he’s just looking out for Chase. Finn wants to make sure Chase can go full-throttle without any relapses. Isn’t that what Chase wants too? Chase says he’ll try to be a more patient patient, and she laughs. He says, just don’t tell Finn he said that, and she says she wouldn’t dream of it. He says Finn is lucky to have her by his side.

On the phone, Brook says, thanks for letting her know. Keep her posted. She tells Maxie, Valentin’s awake, thank God. Anna said the surgery went well, and the doctors are optimistic. Maxie says she’s so relieved, and Brook says she is too. Let’s hope it continues that way. Maxie asks if Anna said anything about the search for Peter, and Brook says, only that the trail is cold. They haven’t seen any signs of Peter since Anna and Valentin saw him in Crete. Maxie says, great. That means Peter could be anywhere, including on his way to Port Charles.

Anna looks at her phone, and Valentin asks if he was sleeping. She says, just a little nap, and he says, it was rude of him; he’s sorry. She says he needs his rest to recover. She’s glad to say the surgery was very successful, and he says, of course (🍷) it was. She didn’t think he’d die on the operating table? That’s not his style. Anna says, she gave Brook an update; she sends her love. She’s going to bring Charlotte over tomorrow. He says, that’s very kind of her. Charlotte’s the only medicine he needs. She says, he does need actual medicine. The doctors are recommending a recovery protocol for him, and he says, no bouncy castle? She says, not yet, and he asks if Peter has resurfaced. Has Victor been of any use at all? She says, Victor wants to make a deal.

Carly and Olivia clink glasses, and Olivia says, Flatland Federal Prison, huh? Sounds like a real five-star destination. Carly says, Sonny thinks he might find out something useful from Cyrus, and Olivia says, she’s okay with Sonny taking a work trip so soon? Carly says, she wasn’t going to tell him that he couldn’t go, and Olivia says, that’s not what she asked. Carly says she gets that Sonny needed to go, and she’s trying to be okay with it. Olivia says, coming back must be a helluva adjustment, and Carly says, it is. They’re taking it one step at a time. Olivia says she really respects the way Carly is maintaining. The staff told her that Nina showed up at the MetroCourt the other day. How in the hell didn’t Carly slap her into next Tuesday? Carly says, because if she started, she wouldn’t stop. Jason had to physically drag her away from Nina when she found her at the Quartermaines. Olivia says, good thing he did too. Carly doesn’t want that woman to have any reason to bring her up on charges of assault. Carly tells her, that’s what Jason said, and she gets it, but it’s inside of her. You know the saying, seeing red? She gets like that every time she sees Nina. Every bone in her body wants to go after Nina. Olivia says she’d be completely justified in doing it. It’s just that there’s better ways. If Carly wants to change her mind, and evict Crimson from the MetroCourt offices, she’ll back Carly 100%. And Carly has a lawyer that’s a ninja. Diane could sue Nina, into bankruptcy, assuming she’s not already in prison. Carly says, Michael’s behind those charges, and Olivia says she had a feeling. Carly says, the night Nina was indicted, Michael looked at her, and asked why she hadn’t already gone after Nina. Olivia says, and why didn’t she? and Carly says, because of Sonny.

Gladys asks Austin how Valentin is doing, and he says there’s no way she could have known this when they met at the hospital, but he’s a physician there, so he can’t discuss patient information. Gladys says, well, he’s no fun. Her drink comes, and she says, but she is, takes it, and walks off. He flashes back to Brook being upset that Gladys is visiting Valentin, and ponders it.

Cyrus says he has more lives than a cat, and Sonny asks, what’s so important that Cyrus wanted to see him in person? Cyrus says, any change is refreshing from the monotony of prison, and Sonny says, get to the point or he’ll just leave. Cyrus says, after coming all this way? He doesn’t think so. Sonny tells him, think again, because he’ll just get in his jet and fly home, and consider it a day well spent, and you know why? Because he got to see Cyrus locked up with no chance of parole. Sonny leans forward, and says, Cyrus threatened his wife, his family, and his town. He got off easy. He’s just sorry nobody killed Cyrus.

Carly says Sonny doesn’t want her going after Nina, and Olivia says she would have thought Sonny would want Nina to pay. Carly says, Sonny thinks if she goes after Nina, it could blow back on them; make a bad situation worse. Right now, he just wants to focus on rebuilding their life together, and loving his children. Olivia asks how Carly feels, and Carly says she feels like they can rebuild their life, love their children, and they can flatten Nina. But Sonny has asked her to let it go, and she’s trying. She’s trying so hard. She loves Sonny so much, but she grieved him for nine months and has to put her energy there. They have to figure out who they are now. Olivia says she just can’t get her head around Sonny wanting to turn the other cheek, and Carly says, I know, right? She used to know Sonny like the back of her hand. Be able to tell you how he was going to react, and be right 99% of the time, but not now. Nixon Falls changed Sonny. Olivia asks if they’re okay, and Carly says they’re working at it. Olivia says, and Carly’s contribution is not annihilating Nina? Carly says, that’s part of her contribution, and Olivia says she respects Carly. She’s doing a helluva job. She had no idea how much this was costing her. Carly thanks her, and says, what about her? Olivia says, what about her what? and Carly says she can tell Olivia’s going through something too.. If Olivia wants to talk to her about what she’s going through, Carly is there to listen. Olivia says, it’s just hard, and Carly asks if it’s Leo. Olivia says, why does everyone think something’s wrong with Leo? Her son is absolutely perfect. Carly says, Olivia told her that Leo was going to the doctor the other day, so she just assumed, and Olivia says, sorry, her bad. She’s all over the place. Carly asks if she can help, but Olivia says, no. She thinks she and Ned are headed for divorce.

Austin tells Curtis, he can’t believe this place is new, and Curtis says, just a couple months old. Austin says, it’s got a really great vibe, and Curtis tells Austin, he just said what every new club owner wants to hear. Why doesn’t he stick around? Austin says he will, and Curtis says, if Austin likes live music, he should come back tomorrow, because he’s booked the hottest group out of Detroit right now. Austin says he might just do that; it sounds like quite the night. Curtis says, it will be, and with the talent he’s bringing in, and fine clientele like Austin, he should have no problem putting The Savoy on the map.

Valentin asks Anna where the WSB is keeping the man now claiming to be his father. In the Hague? She says, right now they’re keeping him in Port Charles. They want him to be close to her so she has access during her investigation. He asks if she’s spoken to Victor, but she says she’s been a bit busy, sitting vigil by a friend’s bedside. He says, her friend is a very lucky man. She wonders if she can ask him a question. How does he feel about Victor’s claim to be his father? He doesn’t know. he wouldn’t put it past Helena. It does sound like something she’d do, have an affair with her husband’s brother, but he’s going to need more than Victor’s word. She says, so he’s not dismissing it out of hand? and he says he doesn’t think it matters one way or the other. It’s just a little unsettling to think, if he’s telling the truth, that makes Charlotte and Bailey his granddaughters.

A waitress serves Marshall his meal, and Brook tells Maxie that Valentin can’t find out Bailey isn’t his daughter until Peter is caught. He’s more likely to understand if Peter is locked up or dead, which wouldn’t exactly be a tragedy. Maxie says, it would obviously be safest for Bailey, but right now, the danger is closer to home. How are they going to neutralize Gladys? Brook says, that woman’s a menace. It’s like Gladys actually enjoys causing trouble. Maxie says, since Gladys’s only priority is herself, they have to convince her that telling Valentin will cost her more than she’d gain. They need leverage. Brook says, the problem is, neither one of them can be the one to set the trap. If she smells either of them, she’ll be on guard. Maxie says, they need a third party, but Brook says, they can’t bring in another person. Maxie says they don’t have to tell him why they’re going after Gladys, and Brook says, him? Who’s him? Maxie says, what was his name? Pip?… Skip?… Trip?… Brook asks if they’re talking about a person or a puppy, and Maxie says she has to call Nina. Chase comes in, and Brook says it’s good to see him up and about. He says, it’s good to see the both of them. He’s glad he ran into Maxie. He’s been studying her daughter’s kidnapping case while he’s been on desk duty.

Cyrus tells Sonny, they’re done here. Don’t let him keep Sonny from his jet plane. Sonny says, be sure of that. This is the one chance Cyrus has of Sonny sitting across from him. If he leaves, he’s not coming back, no matter what Cyrus claims to know. Cyrus says, like he told Sonny; anything to break the monotony. Sonny says, whatever gets him through the night, and Cyrus says he thinks they should discuss terms first. Sonny asks what he wants, and Cyrus says he’s done well for himself here, but his reach has been somewhat limited. If he helps Sonny, perhaps Sonny will do him a favor somewhere down the line. Sonny says, perhaps, and Cyrus says, Sonny’s wife and Jason tried to fill Sonny’s shoes while he was away, but he thinks they overreached when they killed Novak and Buscema, and he’s not alone. Sonny says he doesn’t know what Cyrus is talking about. From what he heard, the cops don’t have a lead on who planted that bomb. Cyrus says, it’s a mystery to be sure, but he returned at a turbulent time with two heads of families gone. Sonny says he’s managing fine, and Cyrus says, for now. He hears someone is headed for Port Charles, determined to fill one of those slots, and get revenge.

At the docks, a man tells Joey, welcome back. How was Warsaw? Joey says, it was well until he got the news, and the man says, condolences on his uncle. Vincent Novak was a great man. Joey says, yes, and looks to the sky. He says, the Corinthos organization was responsible for his death. Now that he’s back, they’re most surely going to pay. Has he been following her like Joey asked? The man says, every step; he knows exactly where she is. Joey says, good. He can’t wait to see Carly Corinthos again.

Elizabeth finds Portia looking out the window in her office, and asks if something is wrong. Is it Valentin Cassadine? Portia says, no, just the opposite. She just told Anna that Valentin’s surgery was successful. Elizabeth says, that’s great. She’s sure Anna is happy to hear that. Is everything okay with Portia? Portia says she thinks she’s fighting off a stress headache, and Elizabeth asks if it has to do with Trina, but Portia says, no, thank God. It’s Curtis. She can’t shake the feeling that he might be in some trouble.

Chase says he has some more questions about the night Maxie’s daughter went missing, and Brook asks if he can be any more insensitive. Blindsiding Maxie, asking her questions about her missing child? He says he didn’t mean to blindside her; he’s just trying to plug up some holes in the investigation. Brook says, by charging in, and interrogating the victim. She tells Maxie that she’s so sorry. Does Maxie want to take a moment, and gather herself? She’ll totally understand. Maxie says, if they’ll excuse her for a minute, and leaves. Chase says he didn’t mean to upset her. Damn, that was all kinds of wrong. Is he really that rusty? She says she knows he’s not trying to hurt Maxie, but she’s struggling more than she lets on. She just finished telling Brook that she’s looking to move forward for Georgie and James’s sake, but she knows it’s all a front. Maxie’s not going to be okay until Peter is caught, locked up, and baby Louise is back in her arms. He says, that’s exactly why he’s reviewing this case. The events of the night Maxie gave birth, they don’t add up.

Anna says Valentin turned into such a wonderful father for Charlotte, and now for Bailey, and he says, parenthood has a way of shifting one’s priorities. He doesn’t have to tell her that. Look how motherhood has softened her. She’s no longer the steely, ambitious WSB agent she was years ago. She says, somehow, she doesn’t picture it softening Victor in any way. He says he doesn’t think so either, and takes it Victor hasn’t given her any more information about Peter. She says, Victor insists a deal before he tells them anything, and he says, maybe Victor will talk to him. She says, no, and he says, yes. Bring him here. He needs to see Victor.

Sonny tells Cyrus that he expected someone step in and try to take over the Novak family; also the Buscema family. Does Cyrus have any names? Cyrus says, Joey Novak’s time in Poland has come to an end, and Sonny says, Joey? He’s a hotheaded braggart. Cyrus says, what’s more dangerous than a braggart with a gun and something to prove?   

Carly says she thought Olivia and Ned were doing better, and Olivia says she can’t count the times she supported Ned in his arguments with the family. The one thing he needs him to see her side on, he can’t, or he won’t. He just keeps pushing and pushing. Carly asks what he’s pushing about. She doesn’t understand. Gladys plops herself down at their table, and Carly says, this is not the time, but Olivia says, it’s all good. She’s going to get another round. She heads for the bar, and Gladys asks how Sonny is. She left him a ton of messages, but he hasn’t gotten back to her. Carly says, then she assumes he doesn’t want to talk to her, and Gladys says, don’t be like that. She just wants to welcome him home, and let him know how much everyone missed him. Joey comes to their table, and says, not everyone. Hiya, Carly. Long time no see.

Brook tells Chase, of course (🍷) things don’t make sense. That night was complete chaos. He says, that’s why he needs to question Maxie again. Witnesses can remember things, and they don’t even realize it. She says, or his question could further traumatize Maxie. It could make Maxie feel even guiltier for not stopping that crazy fake nurse. He promises he’ll be very sensitive, but questions need to be asked to make progress in this investigation. And he’s not going to stop until baby Louise is found.

Portia says, it’s a little too coincidental that TJ’s patient disappeared, and Elizabeth says, he was asking questions about Curtis, right? Portia says he was, and the general description matched the man she spoke to. Then again, that description could match a hundred men. They can’t be sure it’s the same guy. Elizabeth says she has a sketchpad in her locker. If Portia can describe him, she can draw him. Portia says, like a police sketch? and Elizabeth says, unofficially, she’s done it before, and it’s been pretty accurate. Portia can show TJ and see if he recognizes him. Portia thanks her, and says she just needs to know one way or the other. I notice the background music is also used in Planet Terror. It’s not the first time.

Olivia sees Austin at the bar, and says, spectacular. Just what the night needed. He says, enjoying herself? and she says she was until she bumped into him. He says he’ll leave her to it. Have a great night. He leaves, but she follows him, and says, she just has to ask. What exactly did he say to her husband about her son? He says, excuse me? and she says, Ned’s got his head all turned around, looking for problems where they don’t exist, and it all started with him. He says, Ned is listed as next-of-kin, and he has access to Leo’s medical records. It was not a HIPPA violation to talk to him. She tells him, she didn’t say it was against the law, but wouldn’t he say he was sticking his nose where it didn’t belong? He says, Ned came to him. Let him ask her something. What motive could he possibly have to lie about Leo? What could he possibly gain? She says, let her think. A check with a bunch of zeros on it, or a bunch of ELQ stock? He says he’s already signed over his claim, and she says, Ned came to him after he’d already signed those papers?  

Carly says, it’s Mrs. Corinthos, and Joey says, he thought it was Mrs. Morgan. It’s hard to keep track. She says she’s not surprised that he’s stupid enough to come back to Port Charles, but even he should know not to approach her directly. He says he’s giving her a chance to pay her respects to his uncle who was murdered, and she says she’s well aware Vincent Novak is dead. She’s also aware he wanted her and Jason dead. It’s kind of ironic, isn’t it? Gladys says she thought she recognized Joey. She was with his uncle that day as his date. It’s only by the grace of God she wasn’t in the limo with him and that other guy. Carly says, yeah, tragic accident. Joey says, they both know it wasn’t an accident, and it won’t go unanswered. He considers anyone in the Corinthos family fair game. Carly laughs, and says he really wants to come after them? He says, what’s funny about that? and moves toward her. She stands up, and Curtis grabs Joey from behind. Curtis says he had Joey thrown out of there one time, but he’ll be glad to do the honors this time. Joey says Curtis doesn’t know who he’s messing with. He’s head of the Novak family. He won’t be treated like this. Curtis says, tell his story walking. He doesn’t give a damn who Joey’s the head of. Don’t come back. Joey yells that Carly will regret this.

Sonny says, Joey is a punk. He gets no respect. He can’t run the Novak organization; they’ve had one challenge after another. What about Paulie, the oldest nephew? Cyrus says, dead. An untimely car accident; break failure. (I’m laughing because they always sound like they’re from the 1970s Godfather.) Sonny asks if Cyrus is telling him the family is actually backing Joey, and Cyrus says, hasn’t he heard that saying, only a fool would underestimate someone with nothing to lose? Sonny says, message received. He’ll let Cyrus know if he’s right about the Novak family. He hangs up the phone, and starts to leave, but Cyrus bangs on the window, and motions him back. Sonny picks up the phone, and says, what? Cyrus says, just one more thing. Has Sonny seen Laura? How is his sister?

Olivia comes back to the table, and says she heard the commotion. Is everything okay? Gladys says, that guy Joey threatened them, her included. Carly says she thinks Gladys is going to be fine, and Olivia says, what about Carly? Was the threat legit? Carly says, it was just Joey Novak’s pathetic posturing. They’ll be fine. Curtis asks if everything is okay. He’s sorry that guy harassed them. He had Nika set them up with a round of drinks. Gladys says, oh good. She’ll be at the bar. Her nerves are shot. Carly says she’s so sorry. She should have had her guys inside the club; she wanted to be inconspicuous. Curtis says, no worries. It’s his club, his responsibility. If she thinks that guy is going to be a problem later, he can set her up with an escort. Carly says, no. Her guys can handle him, and he’s really not very bright; he’s just a hothead. Curtis says he does know who Joey is, and he knows what Joey is. It’s not his first time dealing with him. Did he hear him say that he was positioning himself as head of an organization? She says, he did, and Curtis says, his advice? Never turn your back on a hothead with something to prove.

Anna says, in what universe does Valentin think she’d bring Victor there to see him? Don’t answer that question. It’s rhetorical; it’s not going to happen. He asks why they have to fight about everything, and she says, because he’s unreasonable. He says, Peter has escaped twice now. They have to stop him before he causes any more damage. If that means using Victor for everything he knows, then so be it.

Carly says, so much for their night on the town, and Olivia says, sorry she’s bad company. Carly says, that’s not what she meant. She’s the one who’s a target for Joey Novak. Olivia says, which was not her fault, and Carly says, the point of going out was to make themselves feel better. That’s not happening. Olivia thinks she’ll feel better when she talks to a divorce lawyer.

Portia comes into the club, and Curtis says she looks beautiful. He wasn’t expecting to see her tonight. She says she couldn’t stay away, and asks if anything unusual happened. He says he had to take the trash out, but it’s all good now. How’d she find out? She says she was referring to the man who was asking questions around town about him. She says they can thank Elizabeth that they have proof. TJ’s mystery patient and the man she ran into outside Kelly’s are the same man. He hasn’t seen him today at all? Curtis says, he doesn’t know what the man looks like; he’s never seen him. Portia takes the sketch out of her bag.

Marshall gets up, and leaves Kelly’s.

Maxie comes back, and Chase says he’s so sorry if he upset her. She says, it’s okay. It hits her hard sometimes. He says he can’t imagine, but he does need to ask her questions at some point. He wants to walk her through the night again. He’s hoping she remembers something she didn’t before. She says she knows the drill. Her stepdad is acting Police Commissioner, remember? She’ll do whatever it takes to get her daughter back safe in her arms.

Cyrus says he’s tried contacting Laura, but got no response. He knows she’s upset with him, but it’s unlike her to make no reply at all. Tell him she’s fine. Sonny says he’s not going to talk about Laura to Cyrus, and Cyrus laughs, saying, here he thought Sonny’s time away might have changed him. Where was he all those months? Did he really not remember his life, or did he just run away for a while? Sonny says he doesn’t run, and Cyrus says, that’s right. It would be difficult to spend your whole life looking over your shoulder.

Chase says, all he wants is to find Maxie’s baby; they’re covering all their bases. He’ll be in touch. He’s sorry if he interrupted their evening. He leaves, and Maxie says, now Chase wants to ask her questions? Brook says, definitely not good, and Maxie says she hopes Anna can find Peter soon, so the lying can stop, and she can have her baby back in her arms. Brook says, one crisis at a time. Did she reach Nina? Maxie says she did; the guy they’re looking for is Kip. Nina had his contact info, so she called him; he’s totally in. Their plan to take down Gladys is a go. Brook puts her hand on the table, and Maxie puts hers on top of it. They both look like they’re trying to laugh

Anna tells Valentin, she wants to let Victor stew by not appearing too eager. Maybe that way he’ll cooperate. He asks how that’s working for her, and she says she doesn’t think Victor realizes that she can only make a suggestion for immunity. The final decision is above her paygrade. He tells her not to sell herself short. She still has a lot of influence, but let him handle this one. Bring him Victor. She says if she brings Victor there, he’ll use his claim as Valentin’s father to manipulate him, and he says he knows that. Doesn’t she think he knows that? Victor will be manipulating him, but he’ll be manipulating Victor right back.

Austin goes back to the bar, where Gladys is ordering two shots of bourbon; the good stuff. He asks if she’s okay. Who was that guy? She says, Joey Novak. His uncle escorted her to Carly and Jason’s wedding. Worst first date ever. She doesn’t want to talk about it. Nika tells Gladys that Curtis comped her previous drink, and Gladys says, that’s real nice of him. She downs the shot, and tells Nika to give herself a good tip. Austin notices Gladys’s credit card says Brook on it, and she says Brook wanted her to have a night out for all her hard work. Austin says, she seems nice. Maybe Gladys wants to sip the next one. Gladys says, if she can handle Brook, she can handle anything. She could tell him some stories. He says, no kidding. Then the next round is on him. She says, no, and holds up Brook’s card.   

Portia says, she described the man, and Elizabeth drew this picture, showing Curtis the sketch. Curtis takes it, and she says, when she showed it to TJ, he confirmed that was his patient. Nika looks over Curtis’s shoulder, and says, that’s the music fan who was in here the other night. The one she thought she’d introduce Curtis too, but then he left. He asks if she’s sure, and she says, that’s him. Portia says, Curtis doesn’t recognize him at all? and Curtis says he’s never seen him before, but there’s something familiar about him.

At the docks, Joey tells his buddy, the Corinthos organization is going down. He yells that he’s going to run this town. The Savoy will make a good cover business, doesn’t dude think? Dude says, Joey wants to take over the place they just got thrown out of? and Joey says, he’ll enjoy giving Curtis an attitude adjustment. He’ll sell that club to him or else. He tells dude to schedule a meeting with the family, and dude says he’s got it. Dude runs off, and Joey turns to leave. He sees Marshall standing in the entrance.

Sonny says he’s had enough of Cyrus, so he’s done. If Cyrus gets bored, Sonny wants Cyrus to think of him; celebrating holidays, taking vacations, going to great restaurants and eating good food, being with his family. Something Cyrus will never do for the rest of his life. Cyrus says he’ll be in touch about that favor, and Sonny says, don’t hold his breath. Sonny leaves, and takes out his phone in the hallway, looking at his messages. He calls Carly, and asks, what’s up? She asks if he’s done with his visit, and he says he is. He’s heading to the plane. She says, guess who’s back? and he says, Joey Novak. She says, yep, and he asks if Joey has given her any problems. She says he tried to hassle her at The Savoy a little while ago and got tossed out. How did he know Joey was back? He says he’ll explain when he gets home. Call Tony to make sure she gets home without any problems. She says, already done. Fly safe. She loves him. He says he loves her too. He’s back, and he’s going to take care of everything.

Tomorrow, Alexis tells Spencer that going to his father is a terrible idea, Valentin wonders what the catch is, Ned asks if Ava has something in mind, and Esme says Harmony knows better than anyone.

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills – The Reunion – Part Four

Andy asked for a show of hands on who thought Erika had no idea what Tom was up to, and everyone agreed she hadn’t. Crystal wondered where Erika’s anger at Tom was, causing Erika to get angry at Crystal, and ask if she was angry enough now. Andy said when Erika was being asked what were reasonable questions, she was lashing out at everyone. Erika’s answer was, why wouldn’t she? How would he feel if he was accused of the same things she was? He said he’d be furious, but if a friend was asking, he’d try to make them understand without isolating them. Erika said she wasn’t showing the emotion people wanted her to, but Andy said it was about understanding, and that Erika shouldn’t think they were against her. Erika said, she’d been controlled about what she said at Kyle’s dinner, but she’d been hurt by Sutton saying she wasn’t buying what Erika said, and that Erika had made a deal with the devil. We flashed back to all that, and Sutton saying when you make a deal with the devil, the devil always comes knocking. Erika said they could read about it, or talk to her about it instead. Dorit told Erika, if she’d said it like that the first time, she wouldn’t get the same reaction. Erika asked if Dorit would like being called a liar, and being sued every day. People said incredible things about her, but she was bothered when it came from the people closest to her. Several of the women pointed out that Erika’s main issue had been with Sutton, who she wasn’t close to. Erika said she as thinking about the dinner where Dorit, PK, Kyle, and Mauricio laughed at her life. Kyle said she couldn’t control what other people did, although Kyle didn’t say, hey, don’t talk like that, either. Erika said she couldn’t control what Tom did or didn’t do, and Andy asked who believed the article that said Erika’s divorce had been a sham. No one did.

Dorit said the LA Times article was the first time they’d heard about any of it, and Erika hadn’t been there. Emotions were high because they didn’t have answers. Erika said they should have had her there, and Andy said that was a good point, but she’d just left. Garcelle said, Erika had left because of something she’d asked. Should they have brought her back to ask more questions? A viewer asked when Erika realized there was money trouble, and she said when she was on Broadway. Andy said he’d heard that Tom was having financial trouble years ago, and we saw a headline about Bethenny revealing this. Andy said Twitter had gone nuts about her not using waterproof mascara, and Camille had weighed in. Jamie from Albany said she wasn’t buying the pity party; it was acting. Erika said she had allergies with mascara, and she didn’t need sympathy, pity, or someone who wasn’t on the show anymore giving their two cents. Andy asked if she’d spoken to Tom since he’d gone to assisted living, and she said, it was sad. She got teary, and told Andy, after the pictures came out where Tom had a black eye, she wanted to make sure he was in the right place. We flashed back to Garcelle bringing up Tom calling Erika to the rest of the group, and Andy asked why she’d been upset when she’d said something that was on camera? Erika said she hadn’t been wearing a mic, didn’t answer those calls, and didn’t want to give the impression she was talking to him. People would say they were in cahoots. Andy asked if he was still calling, and she said he’d called five times today. Andy asked if she’d expressed her anger to Tom, and she said she asked how he could put her in this position. Andy wondered if she’d asked if he did it, and she stopped and started like a broken robot on Westworld for a moment. She finally said, she asked why he would leave her with millions of dollars of lawsuits pointed at her. She did that crying like when the tears just fall out of your eyes individually.

Andy asked again about Tom stealing, and she said he didn’t acknowledge anything. It didn’t matter what he said anyway, since he was declared incompetent. Dorinda said, so he wasn’t capable of understanding, and Erika said, not when she presses. She probably shouldn’t even be telling them this. Andy said the big bombshell was the $20 million that was transferred to her LLC. Erika insisted that never happened, and said her lawyer wrote to Page Six and everyone else, but there was no response. She’d spent $14 million over twelve years, which came out to two million a year; about the same as everyone else in the group spent. At this point, Kathy refreshed her lipstick, and I’ll bet she’d been eating off a TV tray in her head this whole time. Erika said she was being sued by everyone who thought she had a magical pot of gold. She asked if everyone at the firm should take a hit. There was more discussion about the timeline of Tom’s cognizance and him ripping people off, and she said, by all accounts, he’d been an upstanding man in the community. If she’d known anything, she woudn’t have gone on a reality show. There wasn’t a master plan, just a tragic sequence of events. Andy brought up Sutton saying one of the partners had left because their wife thought something was off. Erika wanted to know where that came from, and Sutton said she didn’t know. Erika said she’d like a name, that it would help her, and Sutton said she’d find out. Andy asked, aside from the meeting, what had surprised Erika most, and she said why they believed what they heard when the source was right there. She’d worked hard to be open and honest, and felt like she got sh*t on. Clearly, she was not angry or sad enough. She couldn’t win. I actually don’t think that she knew anything illegal was going on. Did she not want to know is another question, but it’s irrelevant. The problem I have, and I think a lot of viewers have, is Erika’s visceral reaction to being questioned at all.

Crystal thought her question had been reasonable, and LisaR said she knew better than anyone that talking behind someone’s back never worked. Andy brought up LisaR’s accusation that Yolanda had Munchausen’s (something we will never, ever be allowed to forget), and questioned that Kim was sober, saying she was near death. Garcelle wondered why LisaR pushed Sutton to question Erika, and Kyle said that was on Sutton. Andy said Erika was pretty scary, saying she was coming after Sutton. Erika said – get this one – that when she meant is that everyone had their own personal stuff they could be dealing with, and when it was Sutton’s turn, she wouldn’t give Sutton the grace she’d asked for. Sutton said she’d been through it this year too. Andy said that wasn’t how it came off, and we flashed back to Erika saying she’d be coming for Sutton. Erika said, it was just slang, and said if this exchange had happened on one of the other shows, it would be called a conversation. It was only in Beverly Hills where they were so precious. Andy showed a tweet with a screenshot of Erika’s angry face, and the poster saying Erika wasn’t once called a bully. Underneath, Garcelle had replied, thank you. Garcelle said she regretted not intervening and deescalate the situation. Sutton said she’d hired security for a while, which Erika found funny, but Sutton said Erika had told her that she was coming after her and her family. Erika said Sutton had come after her and her family. It wasn’t okay to say she was a liar, and had made a deal with the devil. Sutton said she had her opinion, and Erika said she had hers. Sutton was like, cool, but bring it to the table like an adult. Erika said she was an adult, and Sutton said it didn’t seem like it. In response, adult Erika said it seemed like Sutton was being a bitchy effing c-word. Alrighty then.

Sutton said she didn’t know Erika well, and Erika said Sutton didn’t know her well enough to call her a liar. She shouldn’t read an article and jump to conclusions. Sutton said Erika pretended to be her friend in Del Mar, and we flashed back to Erika being all apologetic. Sutton said she’d thought Erika was sincere, but she was lying. Erika said she wasn’t lying, she was just playing Sutton’s ass. Which is lying, but okay. Everybody thought liar was a strong word, which made me think maybe Erika was right about the precious thing. Erika said it was a vulnerable moment where the consequences were big. They talked about Tom’s car accident, and Erika said she’d left things out to protect Tom. When he was declared incompetent, everyone got the full story. Andy said viewers questioned that LisaR had questioned Yolanda, Kim, and Denise, yet it was crickets when it came to Erika. We flashed back to all those things, and LisaR said she regretted everything, and wished she could take it back. It haunted her and she had to live with herself and the consequences of her actions. Andy said the group had a lot of conversations about LVP, and Erika said, LVP ran, she didn’t. That’s because LVP can do whatever she damn well pleases. She is the Queen.

Andy reminded Erika that Sutton had flown everyone out by private jet to see Chicago when Erika was in it. He didn’t understand why she’d flipped on Sutton. Erika started off by saying Sutton was so worried about her reputation, then they got to the part I hate the most – everyone talking at once. I have no idea what any of them said, but it ended with Erika yelling if anyone was going to back her TF up, and everyone agreeing with her because they were terrified. She asked why Andy was smiling at her, and he said because she was a piece of work, and he’d never met anyone like her. They talked about the car accident again, and Erika told this long, drawn out story, and got pissed when Dorit interrupted to ask a question. It was weird though, when Andy asked how it was snowing where her son had been when Tom had the second accident, and she said she wasn’t getting into it. Now I’m curious. We found out Tom’s children don’t speak to her, and this had driven a massive wedge between them. I don’t imagine they’ve ever been in love with the age difference. She told Andy that she could serve the  victims best by cooperating with the investigation, and Dorit told her that she should have said that in the first place. Erika claimed her lawyer already had. Andy said she’d answered every question, and thanked her. Erika thanked everyone for hearing her, and said it was a situation that wasn’t going to be resolved easily. Then Kathy suddenly apologized to Garcelle for missing a dinner, saying she was still in covid quarantine. Because she was off visiting in the man in the moon while Erika talked.

Andy had some final thoughts, and asked if Sutton could redo anything, what would it be? Sutton said her conversation with Crystal; she would have just listened. He asked what Dorit wanted to be known for, and she said, being a good mom. He asked what surprised Kathy the most, it being her first season. She said, how real it all was, and the sisterhood. She adored all the girls, and she’d had fun. Andy said Crystal had a rough entry, but loosened up, and shared herself. He asked what it meant to have a new group of friends, and Crystal said, it was a new transition, but she kept an open mind and heart, and it was nice that it ended the way it did. We saw a clip of her toasting at the Chinese New Year party, saying, it had been the most remarkable year of her life, and they were all part of it. Andy asked if Garcelle felt more like an insider now, and she said she did. He asked if she got the resolution she was looking for at the Reunion, but she says she didn’t come in with anything particular in mind. She’d decided to just see where things were going to go. He asked what LisaR’s biggest takeaway was, and she said she didn’t know how it would go. The year before, she’d gotten no resolution, so she felt good about what happened, and insisted she was a good friend. They all agreed, and I told her, if you say so. Andy said Erika’s life had been under a microscope, and asked what she hoped to take away. She said nothing other than honoring her commitment. She came with an open heart, and appreciated telling her story. Andy asked if Kyle felt responsible for bringing everyone together, as far as both her family and the group went, and she said she did. She’d had a great time with her sister, and she was happy about that.

Andy said it had been a great season all the way around, which I translated to mean, thank God Erika had serious legal problems this season and kept a storyline going. Kathy’s butlers Patrick and Carlos passed out martinis, and Andy said he was glad Patrick hadn’t been traumatized by the group. Next to Michael on Southern Charm, Patrick is my favorite butler. Kathy said, bottoms up, and Sutton and Crystal actually drained their glasses. Crystal told Sutton that they were alike. Aww! I guess.

🏚 On the horrifying car accident I can’t look away from – aka Winter House – last week, Austen had said he loved Lindsay… like a sister, shattering her whole fantasy life. Jason announced that he was having a keg delivered, and they were having a beer bash in which they also had to choose a drinking partner. Ciara told Austen that if he and Lindsay needed to figure things out, she’d step aside, but instead, they made out. Andrea said his dream was to marry an American girl, and move back to Italy. I couldn’t figure this out, since, why not just stay in Italy? Lindsay told Luke that she and Austen could communicate through their eyeballs, and a huge, messy frat party commenced. A frat party with almost 40 year olds. Julia said just because she had a boyfriend, didn’t mean she couldn’t have fun. I kept looking for the fun, but didn’t find any. Amada whined that Kyle worked all day, then just wanted to be part of the boys group. Paige danced on a table with Andrea. After telling Julia that she liked Luke, Gabby found Julia grinding on him, and in her interview, she said, Julia didn’t want Luke; she just wanted the attention. A producer asked if Julia had ruined past relationships for Gabby, and she said, yeah. You’d think the follow-up questions would be, why are you friends, and why are you feeding her information? But no.

Amanda called her mom to vent, going into the bathroom to talk. Kyle got sh*tfaced, and hunted for Amanda to the point where he was literally crying. This prompted Lindsay to hunt Amanda down and legit carry her back to Kyle. He cried that she only used that bathroom when she pooped, so no one was going to look for her there. Yes, this is the highbrow show I’m watching. Gabby told Paige that she and her ex broke up because of Julia, and told her about seeing Julia hitting on him when Julia knew she liked him. Unlike the fantasy relationship in Paige’s head, Andrea said they were taking it easy, since he’d just come from a relationship that hadn’t ended well. Gabby confronted Julia, who said she just didn’t see it Gabby’s way. In Gabby’s interview, she said Julia’s ego didn’t allow her to be wrong. Lindsay complained that she thought it was going to be a fun, flirty vacation with her best friend, but she ended up alone, which is a good example of why you should set those expectations up ahead of time with the other person. Ciara corralled Paige to help her get dressed for a date with Austen, and in Amanda’s interview, she said she remembered those days of dressing up. Now she just rolled out of bed. Austen and Ciara doubled with Amanda and Kyle. Austen didn’t know if he was ready to move on, but decided to get involved anyway. Back at the Bad Choices House, Andrea did squats with  Paige sitting on his shoulders. In her interview, she said while her friends were on a date, she got asked to be bench pressed.

Next time, Paige gets her date, and a carriage ride.

🥤 Hands down, the best thing about this show are the tiny Solo cups. I’m obsessed.

👼🏽 I’ll Sleep In the Next Life…

Tomorrow, join me for soap, some fashion, and more costume fun. Until then, stay safe, stay reaching for the stars, and stay remembering to never turn your back on a hothead with something to prove, or underestimate someone with nothing to lose.

October 29, 2021 – Gladys Comes Bearing Intel, New Gig, Reboot, Invaded, Not True, More Erika, Denial, Nobody, Ultimate News, Deck Farewell, Sequel, Haunting Quotes & Thrill This

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Anna sees Finn at the hospital and tells her, welcome back. She thanks him, and he says, still no sign of Peter? She says, no. She was just talking to the agents on the ground in Crete, and nothing. Not yet anyway. He says, as much as he wishes she had Peter in custody, or another freezer, he’s glad she’s okay. She says she wishes they all were.

Elizabeth tells Valentin, he’s doing remarkably well for a man with a gunshot wound who’s been shipped halfway around the world. How is he feeling? He says, like he could wrestle a bear, and Austin comes in, saying, he thinks Valentin would need a note from a doctor. Elizabeth asks if there’s something she can do for Austin, and he says, sure, but right now her tact and discretion are gift enough. She doesn’t need to worry. He’s not there in a medical capacity. He has business with the patient.

Brook tells Charlotte to eat her cereal so they can get going, but Charlotte says she can’t. Papa doesn’t let her eat sugary cereals. Brook says, just this once won’t kill her. Now, hurry up, so they can go to the hospital and see her dad. Brook’s phone rings, and she tells Lucy, this isn’t such a great time… She had Gladys working on that. She told Gladys she’d finish it, but she forgot… No, Brook has no idea where she keeps that calendar… Has Lucy tried calling her phone?… Oh, of course (🍷) she’s not answering. Fortunately, Brook knows exactly where to find her.

At the MetroCourt, Sasha tells Brando that his coffee smells good. It has real caffeine in it, doesn’t it? He says, mm-hm. She misses it, doesn’t she? She says, so much. She doesn’t dream of fitting back in her clothes or riding a roller coaster. She dreams of morning coffee, a double-shot latte with extra foam. Maxie comes in, saying, she’s sorry she’s late. Sasha says, no worries, and Brando says he enjoyed the extra time with Sasha. Maxie says, enjoy it while he can. He won’t have a free minute once the baby is born.

Gladys goes to the bar, wearing a bathrobe and slippers, and asks the bartender, what kind of a spa doesn’t have alcohol? She needs a bottle of Dom, and are strawberries in season? Never mind. If they’re covered in chocolate, it doesn’t matter. (Yes, it does.) She’ll take half a dozen. Brando asks what she’s doing there, and she says, the works. Eyebrow threading, mani-pedi, and some kind of treatment with gold leaf that’s going to take ten years off of her. He asks if she isn’t supposed to be at work, and Maxie says, that’s what she’d like to know.

Ava asks if Spencer would top off her coffee one more time, and Spencer says she’s already had four cups; the fifth one might kill her. Coming right up. Ava asks if that’s any way to talk to a customer, and Spencer says, perhaps Nikolas can spare his wife by taking her somewhere more suitable. Ava says, such as? and Spencer says, somewhere else. Nikolas says Spencer seems to have forgotten, he has no moral high ground here. He stalked Ava for months. He terrorized Ava, him, and Avery. He won’t allow Spencer to be rude to Ava on top of it. Spencer says, that’s rich. The man who let him think he was dead for three years is lecturing him on his tone. Nikolas says he’s Spencer’s father, and Spencer says, that can’t be helped. Next time Nikolas climbs on his high horse, just remember he’s no innocent himself. Shawn comes in, and looks at Nikolas.

Brook sends a text to Maxie that says, 911! AGAIN! Charlotte comes in, and says she gave Bailey a kiss goodbye from both of them, and said she’d tell daddy that Bailey loves him, and she gave the nanny Bailey’s top three favorite toys in case she won’t stop fussing. So they can go now? Brook thanks her, and says she’s so good to Bailey. Charlotte says, of course () she is; Bailey’s her sister. Brook says, off they go, and Charlotte asks if she’s sure they shouldn’t bring Bailey to see Papa. The nanny can get her ready in ten minutes; five if she helps. Brook says she wishes they could, but she thinks it would be too much commotion for Valentin. Charlotte supposes Brook is right. Besides, she might be scared by all the machines. Brook asks if Charlotte is nervous, and says, her Papa is going to be fine. He’s looking forward to seeing her. She’s very brave, and Brook wants her to know that she doesn’t just have Valentin; she has Brook too. Charlotte says she knows, and hugs Brook. Brook says, so Bailey is with the nanny, check; spoonful of sugar, check. Are they forgetting anything? Charlotte says, Yuri, and Brook says, that is one giant oversight. Let’s get Yuri, and let’s go see your dad.

Gladys says she has the day off, and Maxie asks if Brook is aware she’s not at her desk. Gladys puts a credit card in the folder to pay her bar tab, and says, it was Brook who gave her the day off. Maxie snatches the card, and says she supposes Brook also told Gladys that she could use her corporate card? Gladys holds out her hand, and says, it’s hers to use, but Maxie says, this is a corporate credit card. She’s part owner of the corporation, and it’s not for frivolous spa treatments or strawberries and champagne. Gladys says, Brook told her it was okay, and Sasha says she’s sure this is a misunderstanding. What did Brook say exactly? Gladys says, Brook was clear. Brook told her to enjoy her well-deserved reward day for all the hard work she’s done. Maxie laughs, and asks if she’s talking about the bare minimum they practically have to beg her to. Brando says he thinks it’s best if they postpone Gladys’s spa day, and she can reward herself this weekend. Gladys says she’s going to do what she was promised, she’s going to do it today, and she’s going to pay for it with that card, like she was promised.   

Ava says Nikolas has been preoccupied all morning. Is there anything he wants to discuss? He says, what’s to discuss? Despite his job, his kid is nowhere close to doing what’s right. She says, and Alexis? and he says, what about Alexis? She says he told her before that Alexis’s pardon might not work out. That’s got to be weighing on him. He says he does have a lot of family business on his mind, and she if he wants to elaborate. He says, there’s been some trouble with some real estate the Cassadines used to own in Greece. He needs to make some inquiries. She asks how it affects him, if the Cassadines no longer own the property, and he says, maybe it doesn’t, but he’d like to head to GH to make sure.  Valentin was shot on the property.

Finn says he heard Peter shot Valentin, and Anna says, he did. He says when he heard, all he could think about were those two little girls, Valentin’s kids. Because of Peter, they could have lost their father. It never should have come to this. He wishes he’d killed Peter. Anna says, no he doesn’t, and pulls him aside. He says, he does. If Peter would have died, none of them would have to worry about him going on this rampage. She says, at what cost to him though? and he asks if she’s talking about his conscience. He thinks he would have slept just fine knowing Peter was in the ground. She says he would have spent the rest of his life looking over his shoulder, wondering when it was going to catch up with him. And if it had, what would have happened to Violet? He says, at least he would have known that Violet and everyone else was safe from Peter. She says, that day will come because Peter’s starting to get desperate, and along with desperation comes mistakes, so he will get caught. Finn says, if he does, he’s interested to see if Peter will tell the authorities about the whole stairwell/freezer incident. She says, if he does, they’ll probably throw Finn a parade. She knows how much he love crowds and attention. He says he does love a good parade, but seriously, when she’s out there looking out for the world, who’s looking out for her?

Valentin says he hasn’t forgotten his agreement with Austin. If Austin wins his suit against the Quartermaines, he’ll support Valentin’s bid to stay CEO of ELQ, and Valentin will pay him off in any way Austin sees fit. Austin says he’s only there to tell Valentin that he’s going to have to hold on to his job on his own. He’s agreed to stop pursuing his claim against ELQ. Valentin asks, why he would do that? and Austin says, the mother of Valentin’s daughter. Valentin asks what Brook’s done now, and Austin says she manipulated him into making a HIPPA violation. Then she made him an offer. He gives up his rights as Jimmy Lee’s son, or he could give up his medical license. Valentin says he’s sorry to hear that. Brook can be a tenacious little minx when it comes to her family. Austin says, she sure is. He recognizes, as Bailey’s father, Valentin doesn’t have a choice, but he does. He doesn’t want anything to do with the Quartermaines. He’s out. Brook says, works for her, and stands in the doorway with Charlotte and Yuri.

Valentin says, mon petite, and Charlotte runs to him, saying, mon papa. Austin says, it’s suddenly really crowded in here. He thinks he’ll split. Brook tells him not to let the door hit him when he’s leaving. Charlotte asks if Valentin is okay, and he says he’s tougher than he looks. She says, he looks terrible, and Brook says, she should see the other guy. What is this, life number six or seven? He says, at least eight, and Brook says she has some Deception business to tend to, and they have some father/daughter time to make up for, so get on that. Outside the door, she tells Yuri that she has some calls to make, and to stay there with Charlotte. She’s his number one job. As she walks down the hall, Austin says he still hasn’t gotten the official word from the Board about going back to work. Could she prod that along? She says, not now, and he tells her to take her time. It’s just his future, his career, the lives of his patients. No worries.

Maxie says Gladys is an assistant. Nobody owes her a spa day or anything else aside from her weekly salary, provided she actually earns it. And she’s confiscating the card until further notice. Gladys says she doesn’t think Maxie wants to do that, and Brando tells her, stop. She can’t talk to her boss that way. Maxie’s phone dings, and she says, that’s Brook. Gladys says Maxie can ask her herself, but Maxie says she has to meet Brook at GH; Valentin is in the ICU. Gladys says, that poor wonderful man, and Sasha tells Maxie to go; they’ll reschedule. Maxie says, as for Gladys, she expected her back at her desk ten minutes ago. She leaves, and Gladys tells Sasha, before she says anything, she was telling the truth. Sasha says they’ll get to the bottom of this. In the meantime, Gladys has to remember that she reports to Brook. Gladys says, how can she forget? and Sasha says, and Brook reports to Maxie. Gladys says, Maxie was just lording that over her; Sasha doesn’t need to repeat it. Brando says, if they’re constantly reminding her of who her boss is, maybe she needs to hear it. Gladys says she’s sick of it. Nobody talks down to her, least of all some fraud who’s barking out orders at her when she should be getting a paternity test. Brando says, hey! Apologize to Sasha right now, and Sasha says, Brando is this baby’s father, without question, and she doesn’t need a test to prove it. Gladys says, of course (🍷). She didn’t mean that. She’s sorry; she’s overwhelmed. Which is why she needs a spa day. She runs out.

Anna tells Finn, this manhunt for Peter has been exhausting; mentally and physically. And the sheer carnage he’s left in his wake. Now there’s two little girls whose father is in ICU. He says, he took the liberty of looking at Valentin’s chart. Exploratory surgery isn’t without risk, but given Valentin’s age and condition, he hates to say it, but he thinks Valentin is going to make it. She laughs, and thanks him for that. She’s happy they still want what’s best for each other. As far as Peter is concerned, Finn’s peace of mind is more important than having him in custody. His death on Finn’s conscience, she would never want that for him, ever. Or Elizabeth. Finn looks at Elizabeth, standing at the reception desk.

Ava says, Valentin was shot? and tells Nikolas, great. She hopes he was sent out a window and belly-flopped into the Aegean. He says, but she’s not one to hold a grudge, and she tells him to let her enjoy it. She asks, who shot him, and why the hell would Nikolas care? and Nikolas says he’ll explain on the way to the launch, but she says he’ll explain on the way to GH. She’s going with him.    

Shawn walks into Kelly’s, and Spencer wonders why they call it serving when you spend most of the time cleaning up. Shawn says he’ll get the hang of it, and maybe even come to enjoy the work. Spencer says he’ll take Shawn’s word for that, and asks what brings him back so soon? Did he forget something? Shawn says he came back to see Spencer.   

Elizabeth asks if Finn is sure Anna isn’t going to say anything about what they did to Peter, and he says he thinks Anna has their back. She says, okay. She should thank Anna. She guesses she should cut Anna a little slack. She’s doing everything she can to catch Peter, but Elizabeth can’t help thinking how many lives Peter will destroy before he gets stopped. He says, Peter will never harm Elizabeth or her family again; he’ll make sure of it. She asks, how? and he says he just will. She says, sounds like a plan, and thanks him. He says, speaking of families, he feels kind of terrible for prying into hers.

Valentin asks Charlotte how things are at the Quartermaines without him. Is she helping Brook with her baby sister? She says she changed Bailey’s diaper, twice, and he says, he’s proud of her. He knows it’s been an adjustment, and wants her to know how much he appreciates her effort. She says she enjoys taking care of her sister. It happens a lot when Brook’s friend comes to visit. He says, Maxie? but she says, Detective Chase. They’re constantly playing games and watching movies. Valentin says, they’re friends, and she tells him, if he says so. He says he cares very much about Brook because she’s Bailey’s mother, but he’s glad she has friends. She asks if he has friends, and he flashes back to kissing Anna in the tavern. He says he has her and Bailey, and that makes him the luckiest man in the world.

Gladys is carrying a humongous teddy bear, and tells Austin that she’s looking for a room. Valentin Cassadine. He says he’s terribly sorry, but only family is allowed to visit, but she says she is family. Gladys Corbin, and she comes bearing gifts… She whispers, and intel. He says, oh, intel. Intel wouldn’t have anything to do with the Quartermaines, would it? She says, would it ever, and he says, you don’t say. It’s a crying shame hospital policy prevents him from telling her that Valentin is in ICU-1. She says, thanks for nothin’, winking at him. He says, pawsitively my pleasure, slapping the bear’s paw. She leaves, and he says, damn, that was gold. Maxie asks, what’s gold?

Shawn says, when he was there earlier, Spencer made a crack about how he used to be able to get his father to do anything for him. Spencer says, first of all, Nikolas is his father, not his dad. Second of all, those days are long gone; his father has washed his hands of him. Shawn says, Spencer might feel that way, but he’s sure that’s not true. Spencer says, care to put money on that? He could use it. Shawn says he would, and he’d win. Spencer says Shawn thinks this is one of those tough love kind of things, but it’s not. Shawn says he thinks the connection between Spencer and his father runs deeper than both of them realize. He also thinks they’re both incredibly stubborn. Spencer says he can’t disagree on the second part, and Shawn says, behind the stubbornness, they’re both longing to reconnect. He thinks if there’s anyone in the world Nikolas would come clean to, it’s his son, and Spencer says, come clean about what?

Anna sees Nikolas and Ava, and says she wanted to talk to Nikolas. He asks what he can do for her, and she says he saved her a trip to Spoon Island. She wanted to ask him about a Cassadine property in Crete. He says, any properties there were sold off years ago. He might be able to provide her with some more information later, but right now he’s here to see Valentin. Anna says, that’s odd. It wasn’t that long ago that they nearly came to blows at the MetroCourt. Not to mention Valentin shot Nikolas out a window and into the sea, and Nikolas was in hiding for three years. He says, recent events have taught him to  rely on his better angels. Can she tell him where he can find Valentin? She says, ICU, but visitation is limited. Ava suggests they come back another time, and Nikolas asks Anna to let Valentin know they were there. She says she’ll be happy to, but while she’s playing messenger, is there anything he’d like to say to his Uncle Victor? Nikolas says, what about him? and Anna says she thought Nikolas would have heard. Victor’s alive.

Valentin asks if Charlotte has seen Scout, and Charlotte says, Scout and Danny were over. He asks if Scout is still interested in ballet, and Charlotte says she is. He says he’s glad. Yuri stops Gladys from coming in, but she says she’s a friend. Valentin says, Miss Corbin? and she says, Gladys. She told Yuri she was a friend; now let her inside. Yuri says, Charlotte is visiting with her father, and Charlotte asks Valentin, who is this person? Gladys says, isn’t she a delight? And pretty. She bets Charlotte knows it. Valentin introduces them, and Gladys says, now will Yuri let her in? Valentin suggests Charlotte take Yuri to the cafeteria for cocoa or something, and they leave. Gladys comes in, and says, my God, it’s worse than she thought. Don’t worry. His Gladys is here now.  

Brando tells Sasha, he can’t believe his mother. He thought she dropped the whole paternity thing months ago. He’s so sorry. She says, first of all, it’s not his fault. She’s not excusing Gladys, but she’s dealing with a lot. In the past few months, her living situation and employment status changed. He says, both for the better, and Sasha says, and she got shot. He says, which is bad, but she’s wearing it like a badge of honor, and she says, on top of everything, the first man she showed interest in, who showed interest in her, literally got blown up on their first date. He says he gets it, and she says, his mother may be… all of the things she is, but she has been through it. He says, even so, she still has to respect Sasha, not only as the mother of her grandchild, but as her boss. He wouldn’t blame her if she fired Gladys.

Austin tells Maxie, you had to be there. He cracked an unappreciated pun. She says she’s glad sense of humor’s back. Does that mean he’s okay with everything? He says he’ll never be okay with giving up his birthright, but in a weird way, he’s kind of grateful that Brook tried to ruin his career. It reminded him how much he enjoys being a doctor. She says she knows what Brook did was wrong, but she doubts Brook would have gone through with it. He says he’s pretty sure she would have. There’s this thing he’s trying to figure out that he doesn’t understand. Maxie was engaged to an extremely bad dude, and she’s besties with a morally bankrupt woman. Is he the only one who thinks she deserves better?

Brook sees Charlotte with Yuri, and says she thought Charlotte would still be visiting with her father, but Charlotte says he sent her to get hot cocoa. Brook says she’d love to join them, but she has to find Maxie. They move on, and Brook gets in the elevator, and says, and ruin her day.

Finn says, Violet found the picture of Elizabeth and her father… and Elizabeth says, she’s bound to have questions. He says, Violet is a very curious little girl, especially where her family is concerned, and she says, that’s understandable, given all things concerned, and he says, even so, he shouldn’t have pushed her, comparing her relationship with her father to his with Gregory. He shouldn’t have done that. Every family is different. She says, she simply doesn’t have a close relationship with her dad, and Hayden never knew him. She’s sorry he’s not an active grandparent to her boys or Violet, but that’s just who he is.

Nikolas says, his uncle is alive? and Anna says, alive, well, and in custody. He was colluding with Peter. They were holed up in a compound in Crete that Nikolas claims is no longer part of his family’s ownership. Nikolas says, to the best of his knowledge, it isn’t, but he can contact his lawyers. She says she would appreciate that, and he asks if Victor has said anything he should know about, and she says, he hasn’t told them much so far. He’s intimated there are secrets to be shared, but he’s angling for a deal obviously. He says, sounds like his unscrupulous uncle. So what’s going to happen to him? She tells him, it’s difficult to say. Victor didn’t survive, and lay low for six years without someone’s help. Maybe it was Peter; maybe it was someone else. Anyway, she’ll be in touch. She leaves, and Ava asks Nikolas, tell her, what is it he’s hiding?

Shawn says Spencer must know he went to prison for shooting Spencer’s former stepmother Hayden Barnes, but he was falsely accused. Spencer says, he’s out now, so they must have found who shot Hayden. Shawn says, the authorities didn’t, but he did. He needs Spencer’s help to bring them to justice. Spencer asks, what can he…? He puts down the tub of dishes he’s holding, and asks what any of this has to do with his father. Shawn says, everything. Nikolas is responsible for Hayden’s shooting.  

Nikolas asks what Ava means, and she says, it’s clear he knows more about Victor than he’s letting on. If she could see that, so could Anna. So she must ask, is whatever it is going to come back to bite them? He says, if Victor had given him up, he’d be in custody and being formally questioned right now, and she says, given him up for what? He says, Valentin shot him and almost killed him, and she says she remembers very well; she was there. He says Victor found him and nursed him back to health, and she asks what Victor wanted in return. He says, they struck a deal. He kept Victor’s anonymity, and Victor kept his. He promised when he reclaimed the Cassadine estate, he would give Victor a home base, and keep his secret. She asks what this has to do with Peter. How deep is Nikolas in with him? He says he had no clue Victor was up to anything with Peter, and she asks if he can trust his uncle to keep him out of it. He says he thinks so. His uncle is an opportunist, and needs Nikolas where he is. She says, unless he’s found a way to leverage Nikolas for his own freedom. He knows as well as she does, betrayal comes most often from those closest to us.

Spencer asks what Shawn means when he says, Nikolas was involved with Hayden’s shooting? Is Shawn saying he shot her? Shawn says, no. We believe Nikolas hired someone to do the job for him. Spencer goes outside, and Shawn follows. Spencer says, who’s we? and Shawn says, it doesn’t matter. What matters is that Nikolas is the one who hurt Hayden, not him. Spencer says, if what Shawn is saying is true, then his father let Shawn serve six years for something he… What proof does Shawn have? Shawn says, none right now. That’s where Spencer comes in. Spencer says he wants no part of this, and Shawn says, just ask Nikolas about Hayden. That’s all. Spencer asks why he should, and Shawn says, for Violet, Hayden’s daughter. That little girl is without her mother just like Spencer. Doesn’t he want to know if Hayden is staying away because of something his father did to her? Spencer seriously doubts his father is going to confess to him, and Shawn says, then he doesn’t. Spencer says, what if he does? What does he do then, turn Nikolas over to the police? Shawn says, Spencer tells him, and he’ll tell the police. Spencer says he doesn’t want his father to go to prison, and Shawn asks if Spencer isn’t facing prison right now. Nikolas is holding Spencer’s feet to the fire for stalking Ava, while Nikolas arranged for someone to kill Hayden. Who committed the greater crime? Spencer says he’s sorry, but he needs to get back to work, and Shawn says, follow his instincts. Do the right thing. Shawn leaves, and Spencer takes his apron off and jets. Shawn watches from around the corner.

Sasha tells Brando, Gladys is never going to be a perfect fit for Deception, and he says, he appreciates her hiring Gladys. It gave her a sense of purpose. She says, she also wanted Gladys to earn an income so she could move out. He says, that too, and look how Glady’s repaid her; insulting everybody, and helping herself to the corporate card. She says, Gladys honestly thought she had Brook’s blessing somehow, and he says, how? He doesn’t know Brook that well, but she doesn’t seem like the type who would treat his mother to a spa day. Sasha says, she isn’t, which is why she needs to get to the bottom of this. He says, or she could just fire Gladys. It’s obviously not working out. She says, let her talk to Maxie and Brook, and figure out what’s going on. As for Gladys, she still has a job… for now.

Gladys says, that Charmain of his is a real beauty, and Valentin says, Charlotte. She says, like the web? and he says, like the web. Both of his daughters are rare beauties. She asks, where is that precious bundle of Brook’s? and he says, at home. Why is Gladys here? She says he was so good to her and she wants to return the favor. She took a bullet recently too. He says he heard. She seems to have made a remarkable recovery. She says, it’s not all bad; she’s a weathervane now, meaning, she can tell when a storm is coming. He says, that must be useful, and she says, it is. He thanks her for the visit and the gift, and she tells him to remember the bear is for him, not the rug rats, no matter how beautiful they are. He says he will. He doesn’t want to be rude, but he really should rest now. She says, of course (🍷). You poor, poor thing. He must be exhausted. She sits next to the bed, and asks if he knows she works for Brook.

Maxie says she knows Brook isn’t Austin’s favorite person right now, and she can sympathize. There was a time she and Brook hated each other. He asks, what changed? Brook is still superficial, caustic, entitled, and opportunistic. She says, they’ve been though a lot, and she can’t forget the good things, and he says he can’t forget the promise he made to his father. She asks if he’s at least been reinstated, and he says, he got an informal notice that Brook retracted her statement, but he’s still waiting for them to make it official so he can see his patients. She says, that’s good. It means this whole thing is effectively over. He says, it’s not over, when Brook walks up, and he adds, not by a long shot.

Finn says he knows it’s a difficult subject, but he’s only asking for Violet, and Elizabeth says, she wants to see the picture again. He says, she’s asked a couple of times where the picture of her grandpa Jeff is. He looked, but he couldn’t find it. Does she know what happened to it? She flashes back to tearing it up, but says she has no idea.

Sasha tells Brando, she has an idea or two about how to reach Gladys, and he asks if she’s sure. She knows how his mother is. The more someone tries to manage her, the more she doubles down to cause trouble. Sasha says she’s got this. He can leave Gladys to her.

Brook says she’s been calling and texting Maxie since last night. Why hasn’t Maxie gotten back to her? Maxie says, something was wrong with her phone. She wasn’t receiving any texts or calls, and they suddenly came in a few minutes ago. What is going on? Brook grabs her, and says, they need to talk, pulling Maxie away from Austin. Austin says, before they have this little tete-a-tete, he’s done everything Brook asked him to do, yet somehow, miraculously, he hasn’t been officially cleared to see his patients. Brook says, that sounds like a you problem, and he says, the problem is for his patients because he doesn’t get to see them. She says she did her part. She’s sorry if the administrative wheels of this hospital grind slowly. She’s sorry, but she has bigger fish to fry, and Maxie says, like Valentin? Brook says, like her assistant. Something has to be done about Gladys. Maxie says she caught Gladys using Brook’s corporate card, and had to order her to go back to work. Austin asks if they’re talking about Gladys Corbin, and Brook asks how he knows Gladys. He says he doesn’t know her well, they just met, but she was looking for Valentin.

Gladys tells Valentin, she’s Brook’s assistant, but she’s treated more like an indentured servant. She doesn’t understand how a classy guy like Valentin got mixed up with a bossy bridge and tunnel princess like that. He closes his eyes, and asks why Gladys is there, and she says, he was so understanding the few times they kept each other company. He listened, and accepted her for who she is. Does he know what that is? He says, a force of nature? and she tells him, that’s not what she was going to say, but she likes that better. She asks if she can call him Val, and says, if knowledge is power, than anyone who crosses her had better take cover.

Ava calls to Anna, who says she thought Ava left. Ava says she’s on her way out, but she just wanted to reiterate that if Anna needs anything from her or Nikolas, just let them know. Peter’s reign of terror has to end. Anna says she couldn’t agree more. It was nice to see Ava together with Nikolas. She’s so glad that whole stalker nightmare is over. Ava says, Spencer is facing the music, and she and Nikolas are ready for their happily ever after. Anna says she certainly hopes that’s the case, and Ava says it sounds like Anna has doubts. Anna says she’s not sure that’s even possible, happily ever after with a Cassadine.   

On the phone outside Kelly’s, Shawn says, they picked up his tail?… Great. He’s on his way.

Nikolas is at the docks when Spencer joins him. He asks if Spencer isn’t supposed to be finishing his shift at Kelly’s, and Spencer says, something more important came up. It couldn’t wait. Nikolas asks what Spencer’s done now, and Spencer says, it’s not about him. It’s about Nikolas. Tell him about Hayden.

On Monday, Sonny says there’s something Carly should know, Valentin asks if Gladys’s knowledge concerns him, Spencer asks if Nikolas arranged for his stepmother’s murder, and Britt tells Jason, they’re so close, they have to find her.

🕳 What Comes Next…

Glad to see she’s recovered from that fall.

🌲 Pine Valley Legend…

And just think. She can start a new streak of not winning awards.

😧 Yikes…

Not that it’s in any way her fault – she’s totally the victim here – she just got done talking about how pricey her wardrobe was on the RHOBH Reunion.

🚬 Smoke ‘Em If You Got ‘Em…

Josh Flagg? Really?

💎 If You Didn’t Get Enough…

More on the ongoing saga.

📸 Not Me…

She was framed framing Tom.

🥗 Everybody Is Somebody…

I dunno about this. Didn’t she write for fitness and nutrition magazines?

👠 To Be Expected…

What did they think was going to happen?

https://www.eonline.com/news/1307070/why-cynthia-baileys-friendship-with-kenya-moore-changed-after-housewives-girls-trip-fight

https://screenrant.com/real-housewives-ultimate-girls-trip-ramona-room-selection/

You, too, can get in on the fun.

https://www.etonline.com/how-to-watch-the-real-housewives-ultimate-girls-trip-174336

🛥 Final Salute…

He wasn’t on for long, but he seemed like a stand-up guy.

https://people.com/tv/below-deck-mediterranean-captain-mark-howard-dead-at-65/

🐯 Tiger, Tiger…

Because we just can’t stop watching.

https://www.insider.com/tiger-king-2-first-trailer-released-netflix-2021-10

🎃 Quotes of the Week

Darkness falls across the land, The Midnight Hour is close at hand. – Rodney Lynn Temperton

Believe nothing you hear, and only one half that you see.Edgar Allan Poe

The universe is full of magical things patiently waiting for out wits to grow sharper. – Eden Phillpots

Villainy wears many masks, none so dangerous as the mask of virtue. – Ichabod Crane, Sleepy Hollow

I’ve seen enough horror movies to know that any weirdo wearing a mask is never friendly. – Elizabeth, Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives

We make up horrors to help us cope with the real ones. – Stephen King

A person should always choose a costume which is in direct contrast to her own personality. – Lucy Van Pelt, It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown

Halloween is not only about putting on a costume, but it’s about finding the imagination and costume within ourselves. – Elvis Duran

If human beings had genuine courage, they’d wear their costumes every day of the year, not just on Halloween. – Douglas Coupland

Nothing on Earth so beautiful as the final haul on Halloween night. – Steve Almond

I’ll stop wearing black when they make a darker color. – Wednesday Addams, The Addams Family

Where there is no imagination there is no horror.Arthur Conan Doyle

The moon has awoken with the sleep of the sun, the light has been broken; the spell has begun. – Midgard Morningstar

When black cats prowl and pumpkins gleam, may luck be yours on Halloween. – Unknown

When the witches go riding, and black cats are seen, the moon laughs and whispers ’tis near Halloween. – Unknown

Werewolves howl. Phantoms prowl. Halloween’s upon us now. – Richelle E. Goodrich

Every day is Halloween, isn’t it? For some of us. – Tim Burton

I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.L. M. Montgomery

Clothes make a statement. Costumes tell a story. – Mason Cooley

There is a child in every one of us who is still a trick-or-treater looking for a brightly-lit front porch. – Robert Brault

On Halloween you get to become anything that you want to be. – Ava Dellaria

🧹 Flying Off On My Broom…

See you post Halloween when the Dead are Feared. No matter what you do, have fun, but trust your instincts. And until the wolf howls, stay extra safe, stay doing what makes you feel comfortable, and stay not doing things that make you desperate. You’ll inevitably make mistakes and get caught.

October 27, 2021 – Nikolas Asks Alexis What Her Price Is, Andy Puts Erika On a Skewer, Why Am I Watching This Trash & Shock

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

TJ and Curtis spar at the gym, and Curtis asks TJ what he’s got. Usually he has to work twice as hard to get a hit in. They stop, and TJ says, sorry. His head isn’t in it. He’s been thinking a lot about that patient he lost.

Portia is walking past Kelly’s, and literally runs into Marshall.

Michael says good morning to Willow, and tells her, it’s renegotiation time for the broadcast station; it always goes down to the wire. What’s her day looking like? She says, same old, same old. Nothing as important or powerful as his. He says she was pretty quiet last night. She didn’t say a word before they went to bed. She says she has a lot on her mind, and he asks if it has anything to do with what happened to Nina.

At the MetroCourt, Ava hugs Nina, saying, that was fast. An overnight extradition to Pennsylvania, and Nina is back, looking no worse for the wear. Nina says, looks can be deceiving; she’s exhausted. Ava says, gutsy move, showing her face there, and Nina says, she can’t very well stay away from her own business. She thought she’d just get a quick caffeine fix, and go to her office to see how many fires her arrest caused. Ava says she’s surprised Scotty’s strategy worked, and they let her leave the state. Although she did tell Nina that he can be fiendishly clever. Nina says she’s impressed too. All she had to do was give them her passport. Ava says, sounds like she got off pretty easy, but Nina says, far from it.

Sonny gives Avery a stack of cinnamon pancakes, and tells her not to put too much syrup on them. Kristina is taking her trick or treating tonight; she’s going to get a sugar rush. Know what he means? Can he get a little sugar rush? She hugs him, and he laughs. Carly says, this is just perfect. She’ll never take moments like this for granted again.

Spencer is reading For Whom the Bell Tolls at Kelly’s, when someone clears their throat, and he says, be right with you, not looking up. Molly says, is that any way to talk to a customer? Can they get some service, or is she going to have to speak to a manager? He runs around the counter and hugs her, saying, it’s good to see her. Shawn stands there looking… I dunno… Like he’s studying this.

Nikolas visits Alexis at Spring Ridge, but when he moves to hug her, she steps back. He asks if everything is all right, and she says she needs to talk to him. They sit down, and he says he has some news for her too, but she can go first. What’s this about? She says, Hayden Barnes.

At the MetroCourt, Josslyn thanks Jax for breakfast. She hates to eat and run, but she’s meeting Trina at Kelly’s for a study session. He asks if they don’t live together, and since when did Kelly’s become a study hall? Oh, that’s right. Cameron works there. She says, please. A ton of people study at Kelly’s, and change is good. They both have a very big exam next week. He says, getting an early start, huh? And he does mean early. She asks if he’s forgotten what Halloween is like in college. They need their evenings free. He says, has she forgotten he went to college in Australia, and Halloween was considered an American influence their country was trying to battle? She says, yet here he is, a venture capitalist, having drip coffee with his American daughter. So she wonders who won that battle. He says, touché. He’s glad that she’s not letting this thing with her mom and Sonny get to her, especially after everything that went down last night. She says she learned to compartmentalize early. She wasn’t going to bring it up, but since he did, how is he doing with everything? She thinks Nina got what she deserved, but still, watching her be arrested last night must be hard on him.

Ava asks if Nina has heard anything more from the Corinthos clan. She can’t believe Sonny stood by, and let Michael do that to her. She’s tempted to go and tell him what he can do with his offer for Charlie’s. Nina says, that’s not necessary, but she appreciates the support. Let Sonny buy Charlie’s. She has no choice but to let things play out. Ava says, so much for their hope that Nina and Sonny could co-exist in peace.

Willow tells Michael, having Nina extradited to Pennsylvania is part of it, but mostly it’s about their breakdown in communication. He says, that’s a pretty big statement, and she says she thought they had a good talk the other night about Nina. She went away thinking they were on the same page, but clearly, they’re not. He says they agreed not to do anything about Nina and Wiley while tensions were high, but he didn’t. She says he convinced the DA of Lantano County to have Nina arrested, and he says he’s confused. Didn’t she agree that what Nina did was wrong? She says she did, 100%, especially after he told her about the confusion it caused for Avery and Donna. She’s not opposed to pursuing legal action against Nina. If that’s what the family decides, she supports it. He says, so what’s the problem? and she says, the problem is, he wasn’t honest with her.

Marshall says he’s sorry if he startled Portia. He’s just as bad as those kids who walk and text, or tweet; he’s sorry. She says, that’s quite all right. She supposes she’s a little jumpy; the spirit of the holiday. She asks if that’s a map he has, and he says, it is. He probably looks like one of those throwback tourists. Maybe he could pretend this is his costume, like she said, in the spirit of the holiday. She laughs, and asks if he’s from out of town, and he says, just checking up on family. He was looking for the Chuck. Is it nearby? She says, it is, but she happens to know it’s closed today; she’s a member. Is he an art lover? He says he is. In fact, he appreciates all forms of art. He just read about a relatively new music venue, it’s called… The Savoy. Does she know it?

Curtis says, he’s sorry TJ lost a patient. That’s got to be hard. TJ says he’s talking about that guy who vanished from the exam room the other night. He asked around the hospital, and the volunteer meeting the guy said he was there for wasn’t real. He thinks he freaked the guy out when he asked for identification. Curtis says, there could be a number of reasons why he took off. Hell, he could have been undocumented. Or maybe he was just trying to get a prescription for some drugs. TJ says he thought about that, but it wasn’t the vibe he got. Something about that encounter felt almost personal. Curtis says that’s because TJ is an empathetic doctor; it’s his superpower. On the positive side, TJ gets two days off. Just let it go. Correct him if he’s wrong, but two days in a row is like luxury for a first year intern, right? TJ says, it definitely is. He plans to live his best life. As a matter-of-fact, what is Curtis doing tonight… and tomorrow? Curtis says, TJ is off, he’s not, but forget about him. What about Molly? He’s sure Molly would appreciate seeing more of TJ now that he has time off. TJ says, Molly’s fine. She’s catching up with Shawn right now. Curtis says, is that what all this was about?

Spencer says, it’s been too long, and Molly says, he’s the one who’s been in town for months, and didn’t bother reaching out to his cousin. Spencer says, they have this new thing called texting, and it works both ways. She says, true. She’s been super busy. From what she’s heard, he has too, and they’ll leave it at that. She asks if he remembers Shawn, and Spencer says, of course (🍷), of course (🍷), and shakes Shawn’s hand. Shawn says, look at Spencer, all grown up. A working man, he sees. Spencer says he’s come a long way from the son who could get his father to do anything for him. It’s been years since he’s seen Shawn. He’s been away; Shawn’s been away… They’re both back now, so that’s good. Molly says, from what she’s heard, he should be focused on his own legal issues, and Spencer says, right. She’s at the DA’s office. She says she’s had to recuse herself from his case. He says, no hard feelings. Duty calls. Grab a seat, and he’ll be right over.

Nikolas says he knows Alexis and Shawn were looking into what happened to Hayden, but he doesn’t know how Alexis thinks he can help. She says, they’re close, right? And despite the last few years, she’s hopeful that the Nikolas that she loves and that she trusts, and that she knows, is operating in there somewhere. So she needs Nikolas to tell her the truth. No lying. No dodging. Just be honest with her. He says, think long and hard before she goes any further with this, and she says, true or false? He hired the hitman who shot Hayden Barnes. He says he knew this is where she was going, especially after that tense moment with Shawn the other day. He hoped her was wrong, that it was all in his head, but here they are. He gets up, and she follows him. She says, that’s not a denial, and he says, it’s not an admission either. He’s insulted that she would think so little of him. She says, that’s even less of a denial. She’s known him since he was born. She knows him better than almost anybody. She said to herself, if she can look him in the eye, she’ll know if he’s telling her the truth. Please tell her that he did not allow a man to be locked up for six years of his life for a crime that he committed.

Molly says she hopes Shawn doesn’t mind that she roped him into breakfast. He says, not a bit. He barely sees her and TJ at home. He enjoys spending time with his daughter-in-law of sorts. Is that an okay term to use for domestic partners? She says, especially the in-law part, and he says, say it with pride, Assistant District Attorney. She says, it’s a far cry from writing romance novels, and he says, don’t knock it. Her lover man had chops. He guesses he can admit it now, but the notes she asked TJ for were actually suggestions from him. She says she didn’t know he read her manuscript early, and he says he volunteered to write articles for the armed forces newsletter. He was trying to help, but she didn’t need it. He thought they had a prodigy on their hands; a future bestselling author. She says, as much as she loved writing, she ended up finding a new way to express herself, trying to improve the justice system from the inside. But she’s not the only one with an appreciation for righteousness, is she? Is he looking to make a difference too?

Michael asks how he was dishonest, and Willow says, he agreed not to challenge Nina about visiting Wiley, because the whole time he knew he was going to get the Lantano DA to file criminal charges against her. He says, one thing has nothing to do with the other, and she rolls her eyes and starts to walk away. He says, the whole point of charging Nina with identity fraud was so it wouldn’t involve Wiley. It solely has to do with what she did to his father. She says, this is what she means by dishonesty. She’s sure he’s right about the legal tactic, but she’s also sure he didn’t let her in because he thought she wouldn’t approve. He didn’t ask her, or the rest of the family. He took it on himself to deal with Nina, and he handled it. He says, she’s right. He did.  

Sonny watches Avery pour syrup on her pancakes, and tells her, what did he say? She’s got a lot of candy ahead of her. She says, Mama Carly said she can’t have it until tomorrow. Carly says, that’s not true. She said Avery could have a piece for how old she is, so she gets six pieces. Avery says, but the Kit Kats always disappear. I feel her pain. Sonny says he knows where the Kit Kats go, and Carly says, Halloween is a magical night. Who knows where the Kit Kats go? It’s kind of like the socks in the laundry. Sonny and Carly go over to the sink, and Sonny says, Carly is in a good mood. She says, thanks to Michael, she doesn’t have to run into Nina at every turn.

Ava tells Nina that she accepted Sonny’s offer before his family had her arrested. She’ll be happy to take Nina’s counter-offer. Nina says, what’s done is done. Besides, she doesn’t want Ava turning the sale of Charlie’s into a battleground. If she wants to make amends to Phyllis, she can’t buy Phyllis’s forgiveness, can she? You cannot pay for absolution. Ava tells her to take it easy on herself, and remember there are plenty of people in this world who will give Nina hell for her mistakes, but she’s not one of them. She leaves, and Nina hears Jax call her name. She turns to see Jax with Josslyn.

Nina says she just came in for a quick cup of coffee, and Josslyn asks why she’s there. She was arrested last night, and extradited to Pennsylvania. Nina says, she was. She made bail, and was allowed to come home until the trial. Josslyn says, that’s it? Nina stole Sonny’s life for nine months, and took him away from his family. She’s finally arrested and didn’t even have to spend the night in jail. Jax asks if Josslyn doesn’t have some studying to do with Trina, and Josslyn says, and Nina shows up at her mother’s hotel, acting like nothing happened? Jax says, Josslyn, and she says, fine. She gets in the elevator, and Nina tells Jax that he doesn’t have to feel like he has to protect her from his daughter. Josslyn’s made it crystal clear how she feels about her. He says, she’s her mother’s daughter; what can he say? She says she can take it from Carly, but Josslyn broke her heart. He says he’s sorry, and she says they haven’t talked since the night of the fire, and they couldn’t really talk in the hearing room. He says he’s been keeping his distance, especially since he figured out she’s been keeping her true relationships with Mike – or Sonny – a secret. She says, Sonny is not the man she fell in love with. And he’s not the man who fell in love with her.

Willow says, it’s like Michael was honoring the letter of their conversation, but not the spirit. He says he realized he was doing that while she was saying it, and it wasn’t right. She says she’s not thrilled by his strategy, but she’ll admit it’s affective. The DA thinks he can win the case, and the fact is, Nina did commit the crime. If he’d told her from the start, she would have had his back, but he didn’t give her the chance. He made a preemptive decision and went around her. He tells her, everything she’s saying is valid, and he’s sorry. He thinks because of the last few relationships he’s been in, he’s more guarded than he realized. He should have told her, but at the same time, he stands by his actions. Nina needs to be held accountable. Not for anything to do with Wiley, but because of what she did to his family. Willow says she thought she was his family too.   

Portia tells Marshall, The Savoy is great. She feels a little responsible for it coming into being. The owner is a good friend. He says, really? He read that the owner never ran a club before; is that true? She says she doesn’t remember there being any profiles on Curtis when the club opened. Where did he read that? He says, somewhere online. Anyway, he’s just curious, what made him jump into the nightclub business? She says, he seems more interested in the owner than the venue, and he says he’s just a people person. She says, okay. It’s been nice speaking with him, but she has to get going. Enjoy his visit to Port Charles. He thanks her, and she moves on.

TJ says, it’s okay if Curtis can’t hang, and Curtis says, it’s not that. He’s noticed all the extra time they’ve been spending together, as much as he loves it, all started when Shawn was released, and came back to town. TJ doesn’t see what one has to do with the other, and Curtis says, for six years it’s been him, TJ, and TJ’s mother; they were a family. Now TJ’s biological father is in the picture, and he’s okay with that, but TJ doesn’t have to demonstrate that their relationship isn’t different. He’s not insecure in any way about TJ’s relationship with his father. He thinks it’s important, so he encourages that, and he knows he and TJ are rock solid. TJ says, always have been and always will be, and Curtis says, they’re family. Nothing is ever going to change that.  

Molly says Shawn has been staying with her and TJ at her mom’s for few months now. She always hears him talking to TJ about finding out what his next step in life should be, but when they talk, it’s non-stop news and current events and social justice issues. It’s clear he’s passionate about these things. Maybe there’s a path in the social sphere that he can explore. Somewhere he can bring awareness to the issues he cares about. He says, like what, a podcast? He has no idea how to pod or cast. He doubts his criminal record will support any bid for being a public official. At least not until he clears his name. She asks how that’s going, and he says he does have a new lead to follow, but it could send him down a bath that could cause a lot of trouble. She says, whatever he decides, she’s behind him. She trusts him.   

Nikolas tells Alexis, Shawn Butler is far from an innocent man. He showed up to kill Drew, the father of her granddaughter Scout. It’s only due to bad luck and bad aim that Drew wasn’t hit by Shawn. She says, the salient point is, Shawn didn’t shoot Hayden. A hitman or hitwoman did, but only Nikolas would know that, since he hired them? He had Hayden shot, didn’t he? He tells her, don’t. If she keeps pulling this thread, he’s going to make helping her impossible, especially since he’s secured her release.

Nikolas says he and the governor got quite close, ever since he dated the governor’s daughter. He thought he’d play his card at the right time, and the right time presented itself last night at a fundraiser they both attended. He spent most of the evening championing Alexis’s cause with him. She says, what a fortuitous coincidence. She doesn’t suppose it had anything to do with their conversation the other night. He says he reminded the governor of her role in exposing the corrupt Judge Carson, and he suggested the state show its appreciation by offering her a pardon. They sit again, and he says, it’s incredible, right? The governor plans to issue her a complete pardon for her attack on Detective Falconari, which is a little dicey for him, her stabbing a cop and all. But the governor is prepared to take the hit as a personal favor to him. Of course (🍷) if he has to fend off groundless charges and allegations, it can tarnish his reputation, and his political sway could disappear, along with her pardon.

Josslyn walks into Kelly’s, saying, she had to see for herself, and Spencer says, and smirk? She says, yes. Watching him work at Kelly’s is like watching the Lock Ness Monster play the tuba. He should wear it as his Halloween costume. Grandma Bobbie loves her employees to dress up for Halloween. He says she’s loving this, and she admits she is. He tells her, please enjoy his utter humiliation, but do it from across the room; he’s not in the mood. She says, there’s nothing to be humiliated about. As a matter-of-fact, she’s impressed. He’s not relying on his inheritance. He’s making money on his own, and that’s admirable. He says she realizes that all three of her parents are probably as rich as his, right? She says, which makes her incredibly fortunate, and she tries not to take that for granted. By the way, she never betrayed her parents trust, or used a good friend and lied to her. Or committed several crimes and wound up awaiting trial. Shawn, who’s been listening in, asks Molly to tell him more about Spencer’s legal difficulties.

Michael says, that came out wrong. He didn’t mean she wasn’t part of his family, because she is. The two of them, and Wiley are a family together. She says she gets it, but she doesn’t look at him, and he says, after their conversation about taking things slowly and that she’d be more comfortable with boundaries… They’re already living together, they’re sleeping together, they’re raising Wiley together, it’s hard to figure out where those boundaries are. She says he doesn’t have to explain, and he says, it’s hard to find the line between moving too slowly and moving too quickly when they’ve been in love for so long, and they finally get to be together. She takes his hand, and says she loves him too. He says, he’s glad to hear it because he’s clearly blowing it. He’s sorry for keeping her out of the decision making process. He guesses maybe on some level, he was trying to keep her in the clear. She says, what about him? and he says, he did what had to be done. And he always will to keep his loved ones safe. He hopes she understands.

Jax and Nina go to the bar, and order coffee. He says they have a chance to talk, but she says, they don’t really have much to say, do they? She’s in a no-win situation, and in order to respect Sonny’s wishes, she has to continue to lie about the nature of their relationship, even though she’s facing criminal charges. So if she can’t fix her legal problems, she’s just going to focus in on Crimson. That is, if she still has a job there. He says he’s not going to force her out, and she asks if he wants to rethink that. It’s bad optics having a convicted criminal at the helm. He says she can’t run Crimson from behind bars, that’s for sure, and it was a mistake to come back to Port Charles without consulting a lawyer first. They could have protected her, and maybe stopped things from escalating further. She says, there he goes again, trying to be her white knight. If this ordeal taught her anything, it taught her that Jax has to stop trying to save her. She’s a lost cause.

Ava comes into the former home of the beloved moss bowl 🎍, and Avery hugs her. Ava calls her Miss Sticky, and asks if she’s been eating her father’s pancakes. Avery says she was, but she thought she wasn’t staying with Ava until tomorrow. Ava says she thought right; she came by to talk to Avery’s daddy. Carly suggests Avery go upstairs and see what Donna is doing, and Avery runs out. Carly says, if this is about custody… but Ava says, no, and walks over to Sonny, giving him a manila envelope. She says it’s the closing papers. She had her lawyer look them over already, so just have his lawyer do the same, sign them, and Charlie’s is his. Carly says, that was fast, and Ava says, especially since there was a bidding war. Carly says she wasn’t aware of it, and Sonny says, things were kind of crazy last night. Ava says, right, with Nina. It must have slipped his mind. She thought he shared everything with Carly.

Portia arrives at the gym, and sees Curtis with TJ. She asks if someone forgot to invite her to the party. TJ’s not working? He says, he’s not playing hooky; he has two days off. She says, he scored. She’s on her way to a kickboxing class. Enjoy his days off while he has them. TJ says, while he has her, has she heard anything around the hospital about a patient of his who skipped out before he could grab their ID? She says, oh, one of those. She hasn’t heard anything, but she’ll let him know if she does.  Did he say or do anything fishy? Curtis says, TJ is taking it a little personally, and TJ says, maybe he is. The gentleman was so amiable, he can’t figure out why he would lie to him, and then ghost. They hit it off, and were talking about life, family. Curtis says, he’s going to find, working in a hospital, he’ll meet all kinds of people. TJ says he even asked questions about Curtis, and Portia says, wait. What did this patient of his look like?

Shawn asks Molly, Nikolas wouldn’t even post bail? He thought Nikolas adored Spencer, and vice versa. She says, a lot has happened since Shawn was around. Starting with Nikolas pretending to be dead for three years, and ending with him marrying Ava. Spencer feels Ava double-crossed him when he was trying to get justice for Nikolas, who, as it turned out, wasn’t actually dead. He says, that’s a damn shame, and she says, it’ll all work itself out. The funny thing is, all Spencer needs to do to make things right is apologize; like a real, sincere apology, where he holds himself accountable. Nikolas feels so guilty for staying away, he would be putty in Spencer’s hands. He says, that easy? and she says, that may be a slight exaggeration, but it would be a good start. Nikolas has that Cassadine ruthlessness, and a seemingly cold heart, but that heart melts when it comes to his son. Spencer has always been his Achilles heel.

Alexis tells Nikolas, so they have quid pro quo, huh? She and Shawn drop the investigation, and forget Nikolas initiated the a hit on Hayden, and he facilitates her pardon. Her silence buys her freedom. He says, he never said that, and she asks if he thinks she’d be tempted by this blanket attempt at extortion? He says he has no idea what she’s talking about, but for argument’s sake, he contends that everyone has a price. The question is, what’s hers?

Willow says, just because she and Michael aren’t on the same page right now, doesn’t change how she feels about him. She missed snuggling with him last night. He says, so did he, and she says, knowing how hard they fought to be together, and they already know they want to spend their lives together raising Wiley, maybe taking it slow made it messy. He says, he’ll go with confusing, but she says she’s not confused. One thing she knows for sure, she doesn’t want that division between the part of her life where he lets her in, and the part of his life he shields her from. That might work for some relationships, but she doesn’t want that for them. He says he doesn’t either. Other than their son, there’s nothing more important, and he’s going to spend every day proving it to her. Starting now.

Sonny says he’ll have Diane look it over, and Ava says, when the papers are signed and the money is wired, she’ll leave the keys with Kristina, and they’ll be done. She’d like to say goodbye to Avery before she leaves, and he says she knows the way. She goes upstairs, and Carly says, that was quick. She loves the way he does business. She hopes Phyllis takes him up on his offer, and stays there. She has to go to work, and says she loves him. He says he loves her too.

Jax tells Nina that he’s hanging up his armor. He didn’t do so well, trying to shield Nina from the truth about Nelle. But he can’t help but wonder if that didn’t set this whole thing in motion. She says he’s got to stop. Part of her making things right is is taking full ownership for her actions. He had nothing to do with her choices. They’re her responsibility, and she’s going to face the consequences. It’s the only way that she can move forward. He says, for that, he appreciates her, and she says, enough to respect her wishes? She’s talking about Carly. Is he planning on telling Carly the truth about her and Sonny?

Curtis tells Portia to enjoy her class. He’s going to check on his new sound system upgrade. She tells him to wait. She ran into someone on the way over here, and he was asking questions about Curtis too.

TJ goes to Kelly’s, and asks Molly where Shawn is. She says, he had someplace to be. She thought TJ was busy all day, and he says he was planning to be, but came to his senses. Instead of spending his precious time boxing with Curtis, he could spend it with his beautiful partner. They kiss, and Marshall looks through the window. Spencer tells Josslyn, on the bright side, he’s learned how to make Kelly’s famous hot cocoa, and she says, yum, giving him an A+ for it. He gives her a check, and she asks if he can leave her tab open. She’s meeting Trina there for a study session. He asks if she wouldn’t mind studying at the Bistro. He doesn’t want Trina to see him like this. She says, she’ll take Trina someplace else for today, and today only, because he has nothing to be embarrassed about. To work is a good thing; it’s an admirable thing. When she sees Cameron doing his shifts there, it not only makes him hotter, it makes her feel prouder of him. He says, that’s a horrible pep talk, and she says, there’s always the easiest solution. He says, pray tell, enlighten him, and she says, he can get over himself, and make things right with his father. Keep the change.    

Nikolas tells Alexis that she doesn’t have to give him an answer now. Just think it over; the benefits, the consequences. Shawn comes in, and Nikolas says he’ll let them get caught up. He leaves, and Shawn asks, what happened? Did Nikolas say anything they can use against him?

Michael says he’s finished talking himself out of this, and Willow says, out of what? He gets down on one knee, and she asks what he’s doing. He says, what does it look like he’s doing? He’s asking her to marry him.

Nina walks Jax to the elevator, and says she’s not the only one who’s been rethinking her life. He needs to focus on something other than her and Carly, which means staying out of the war zone. Carly won’t hear the truth Nina has been keeping from her. Not from him. He gets in the elevator, and Nina turns around, coming face-to-face with Carly.

Sonny’s phone rings, and the operator says Sonny has a collect call from Flatlands Federal Prison inmate Cyrus Renault. Will he accept the charges?

Tomorrow, Curtis tells Portia that it would be a mistake to ignore that feeling, Spencer asks if Nikolas is at Kelly’s to gloat, Nina tells Carly that Sonny was better off in Nixon Falls, and Sonny asks Cyrus what he wants. I guess he accepts the charges.

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills – The Reunion – Part Three

Kathy over doing the show, and Andy wondered if they would have felt differently had they seen it. Kathy burst into tears over her mother not being there anymore, and Kyle told her it was okay to cry and hugged her. Andy asked if Kyle regretted doing the show, but she said she didn’t do anything wrong; it was a love letter to her mom. She felt bad that her sisters thought it was something it wasn’t, and if they’d just watched it they would have seen that. She’d never do anything to shame her mother. Andy asked who called who first, and Kyle said it was the kids. They’d been bummed that holidays weren’t the same, and eventually, she and Kathy realized they had to do something. Andy asked if they’d hashed out their issues; he got the sense they still hadn’t worked it out. Kathy said he was their psychiatrist. I wondered if they were desperate. Kyle said it had been poorly handled on both their parts, but it was all good now. Andy asked if the show had brought them together, and Kyle said they’d been speaking already, but Kathy had never done things like a girls trip, and it was fun seeing her do them for the first time. He asked who The Lady was, referring to someone who works for Kathy, and we found out her name is Paula. We also saw a clip of Paula serving Kyle and Kathy on TV trays. In another bombshell, Kathy said she, Rick, and the kids ate off of TV trays every night. We flashed back to when Garcelle had forgotten her sister Carol’s name (Garcelle is one of seven kids), and she said, something had happened, and they had let it fester. Andy wondered if it was Freudian, which I guess was the psychiatrist in him coming out. Kathy had been voted favorite Richards sister on Watch What Happens Live, and Andy asked if Kyle was jealous, but even Kyle isn’t that stupid. Andy asked if Kathy had gotten any advice before coming on the show, and Kathy said Kim told her, just don’t lose your temper. He asked how Kyle’s relationship with Kim was now, and Kyle said she now had Kim’s current phone number, and they were good. Andy said he was hoping to see all three of them this season, and Kyle was cagey, but it sounded like Kim will make an appearance.

We saw clips of newbie, and descendant of Confucius, Crystal. Her stint at an escort agency in college was touched on, and a vote was taken on who would wear her ugly leather pants. I think it was everyone except for Sutton, and Kathy, who said they wouldn’t look good on her. Sutton said she wore a lot of things people hated, and to each his own. Andy moved on to the coat that launched a thousand tweets, and asked if when Crystal finally saw the show, did it look like less like a violation than an awkward mistake? There is no way Crystal is every going to back down from using the word violation, so she didn’t even answer that, saying, how she was feeling was something that had compounded over two days; it wasn’t an isolated thing. We flashed back to the  color conversation, and Crystal said, it was cumulative. She wished they’d started off on the right foot. Sutton said she thought violate was a strong word – as does every other person on the face of the earth – and it inferred Sutton had done something purposely to hurt Crystal. During the season, Crystal had admitted to having an eating disorder, and Andy wondered if her body image issue was a factor in feeling violated. She agreed it was, and I began to think, maybe he should hang a shingle out. He father’s experience with racism was discussed, and she said he handled it in the classic Asian way – don’t speak about it. She started crying at the thought of her dad, and how fearful he’d been. Andy said he’d been upset to hear Crystal had getting threats and hate speech about being on the  show because she was Asian. She said she still got hundreds of messages a day like that. I’m not a huge Crystal fan, but that made me sad to think that people are still behaving like that in 2021. She said she came on the show because she thought Asians needed representation. It was an incredible opportunity to speak out for people who were too afraid, like her dad. Sutton said she was sorry for any part she played in that, but I’m sure people like that will find any reason to spread their hate. Andy said Crystal should feel great about sharing her culture, and not let a percentage of a-holes on social media define her experience, or what she put out there for others to experience. She said she was grateful to the group for being open and accepting, and she’d been excited to show her culture. Andy asked what everyone enjoyed about getting know Crystal, and Kyle said making the dumplings was the best, which was no surprise. She also loved the Chinese New Year celebration, as did I. LisaR said Crystal was like a little sister to her.

Andy said the women had been eager to dress up again. Let glam squads rejoice. Beverly Hills is back. We flashed back to Dorit saying, it had been a hundred years since they dressed up, and then we saw a billion fashion moment clips. The vintage designer collection LisaR kept in her garage was discussed, and Andy said he’d been concerned that she basically inviting thieves to help themselves. She said she’d realized that, and it was now in special storage. Since Garcelle had been a legit runway model, Andy asked who had the most fashion sense, and she said, Dorit. We found out Dorit pays full retail, because she wants to wear what she wants, and not what someone else fronted her. Andy asked Kyle what the most over-the-top gift was Mauricio had ever given her, and she said a pair of diamond earrings that he’d sent to WWHL. We saw a clip of Andy giving them to her, and they were stunning. Unfortunately, they’d been stolen, along with Kyles whole jewelry and bag stash, when they’d been burglarized.  

Kathy said she was surprised to have been voted fan favorite, since the group was dynamic, intelligent, and fierce. Which is debatable. She said it was nice to be received well. Apparently, daughters Paris and Nicky were disgusted when she’d signed on, but were okay with it now. We saw a Kathy retrospective, and Andy said, we’re all hunky dory for Kathy. He asked if it was a surprise to Kyle, but Kyle said Kathy had always been hysterical, and a practical joker, and has a laugh like their mom’s. Andy said Kathy reminded him of Kim, who was eccentric. That’s one word for it. Kathy said no one knew the real Kyle, but I’m not sure what she meant by that. She talked about living at the Waldorf Astoria for nine years. Andy asked about her connection to Hilton hotels, and she said Rick’s grandfather had founded it, but it had been sold ten years ago.

Erika said she’d love it if Andy wasn’t hard on her, but he said he was putting her on a skewer and firing up the barbecue. She said she was so ready, and we flashed back to all that. Erika said she was keeping score of who was for or against her, and Kyle said she hoped Erika knew the difficult position they were in. Erika said the thing that had hurt her the most was when Dorit and PK got together with Kyle and Mauricio, and mocked her life and family; it was hurtful. Kyle claimed Mauricio had said all along that he believed Erika, even though we just saw him say just the opposite. Erika said whatever anyone needed to ask, she was there, and Garcelle asked why Erika didn’t understand their concern over being possibly pulled in. Erika said there was nothing that legally tied anyone there to her. The tabloids were going to project, but they couldn’t be fearful. They knew the truth. Sutton said it felt like Erika had run from questions in Palm Springs, but Erika said she left because of the altercation with Garcelle. We flashed back to Garcelle letting the cat out of the bag about Tom calling Erika. Andy said the difference with Erika’s legal issue was that there had been actual victims. It wasn’t like RHONJ where Teresa and Joe had defrauded the IRS. Erika said she understood, however, they were a long way from finding out what happened. She’d loved her husband, and he was now accused of defrauding widows, orphans, and burn victims; she felt horrible. There were also boundaries as to where she could and couldn’t go, but if anyone was proven wronged, she wanted them to be remedied. Andy said the way people perceived it, it looked like Erika saw herself as a victim. Sutton agreed that’s how it was coming across, and Erika (no surprise) got pissed, saying, her life was broken. What should she have done? Andy said her sympathy didn’t seem to be landing with the group or the viewers, and Erika said she had a limited way she could express herself; everything she said was picked apart. The best thing to do in the situation was to sit and be quiet. She wasn’t surprised at viewer reaction, but she was at the women. Kyle said Erika was doing herself no favors with Instagram, and Andy said she had the attitude of consumption and indifference. Erika said she was paid to post, and had to pay the bills, but Andy said it landed differently when there were victims. LisaR said she could understand why Erika was doing it, but she was feeding the fire, and she didn’t think it was helpful. Andy asked what she’d known, and if she had any sense that an alleged theft was happening, and she snapped that she didn’t work for the Girardi law firm. There’s his answer. He asked who didn’t believe Erika, and that was no one, and LisaR added that nobody knew anything. Garcelle suggested there may have been signs that Erika didn’t want to see, and Crystal wondered where Erika’s anger was at Tom, which really riled her. She asked what Crystal wanted her to do. Before the show, she’d said she wondered who she was married to for twenty years. She was very angry. Besides, they didn’t know what she had done or what she was going to do. Andy asked what she was going to do, and she said he’d have to wait and see. We flashed back to a lawsuit against Tom that Erika had been named in some time ago, and Erika said she’d gone to him, and said, what is this? He told her it was bullsh*t, and don’t worry. Everything was resolved like that. She asked Crystal if she seemed angry enough, as she steam came out of her ears.  

Next time, the conclusion of the Erika Show Reunion, Erika says Tom called five times that day, Erika says they can’t find the police report for Tom’s accident, Erika insults Sutton again with the c-word, Erika wants to know if someone will back her TF up, and Erika wants to know why everyone in Beverly Hills is so precious.

🏚 On the godawful Winter House, Gabby (an actual model) thought she was in love with Luke because of his rugged ways. He did build a legit igloo – ice bricks and all – which was pretty impressive, but IMO, he’s bad news. Like any of these guys are good news, but that’s beside the point. He said in his interview that he was oblivious to women coming on to him, but I’m not sure if he actually is, or just pretends to be to make himself more desirable. Paige made out with Andrea in the hot tub, and was already married and living in Italy in her head, and friend Julia was already living vicariously through Paige in her head. After their hot tub make-out session, Andrea fist bumped with Craig, which was juvenile creepy. Ciara was in love with Austen and they made out, but then Lindsay showed up. Apparently, Austen and Lindsay had hooked up back in 2018, and Craig told Austen that he thought Lindsay would have left any boyfriend for him.

Amanda said Kyle was ruining the mood by working. When he wasn’t doing that, he was ruining the mood by drinking too much, and complaining about things like no winterizing in the house. In Lindsay’s interview, she said she and Austen were both single at the same time in a long time. She passed out small bottles of Fireball upon her arrival, and didn’t seem happy when Austen told her that he’d made out with Ciara, pulling her hood up, and pulling the drawstring to hide her face. Because she’s five. In her interview, she said, when Austen came to NYC, they hung out for four days straight. They were having an emotional relationship, and had FaceTimed on New Year’s Eve. Austen told Craig that he loved Lindsay, but had feelings for Ciara, and he was over the love triangle. Ciara, who was keeping her eye on all this, said Austen and Lindsay had the longest hug she’d ever seen. In her interview, she said, since Lindsay walked in, she’d literally been trying to take all of Austen’s attention.

Lindsay ended up getting so drunk, she fell on the floor, and Austen had to carry her to her bed. She told him that she was in love with him, and it wasn’t just because she was drunk. He hated that Craig was right, and in Ciara’s interview, she said Lindsay was f***ing up her sh*t. She thought she was going to have a cute vacation romance. Perfect timing… They did some winter sports, which was cool, no pun intended. I love the snow. They made snow angels, which is the thing I love doing most during the first snow of the season. Gabby thought she totally go to the Arctic with Luke. She’d never go hungry, but she’d need to learn to sew. I’m guessing the Arctic might not be quite as primitive as she thinks. Austen told Lindsay that he loved her like a sister, totally friendzoning her.

I finally noticed Carl was missing, but if I remember correctly, he had a lightbulb moment where he realized he was too old for this sh*t. Which is exactly what bothers me about this whole show, along with its summer counterpart.

Next time, Ciara and Austen go on a double-date with Kyle and Amanda, and Andrea bench presses Paige.   

💬 Dashing Off…

See you tomorrow for soap and fashion, possibly made out of soap. Until then, stay safe, stay appreciating other cultures, and stay honoring both the letter and spirit of the agreements you make.