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January 15, 2019 – Anna’s Bandages are Removed, Benny Leaves the Hospital, the Deck Goes Gold & Lullaby

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What I Watched Today

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

 

General Hospital

The way they show the pictures in the new show opening, it’s like they’re flipping through cards.

At the hospital, Anna needs to know if it worked. Will she be able to see?

Elizabeth wants to buy something to bring to the bake sale, but Aiden says that’s cheating. They’re raising money to save the planet, and it should be all natural ingredients. Franco says if he wants to, they’ll bake from scratch. They need to check their supplies. He tells Elizabeth to go ahead. What could go wrong?

Josslyn finds Cameron in the chapel, sleeping and covered in flyers. She startles him, and he asks what she’s doing there. She says, waiting for Oscar. What’s he doing there? Is he on drugs?

At the hospital, Monica tells Michael that the service for Gail was meaningful. She was laid to rest next to Lee. They had many good years together, and loved each other very much. Michael says Monica has a lot on her plate, and needs to take time for herself. He suggests they take a day, and see a play in the city. Monica says he’s sweet, but she can’t leave with everything going on with Oscar. Michael says, sometimes we have to force ourselves to get away. You can’t help anyone else unless you take care of yourself. Monica says that’s something Gail used to say to her – a lot. She was lucky to have Gail by her by side, and she’s lucky to have him now. Gail made her realize it’s important to show up, even when it seems like the world has cut you off at the knees.

Willow comes into Charlie’s and tells Julian, before he asks, she didn’t pick the place. One of her student’s parent wanted to meet there. Julian says it’s not good for her to be there. She’s too close to the people connected to her son. She says, maybe, but it’s unavoidable. A lot of people there have ties to the baby she gave up.

Kim wants speak Terry alone before Oscar gets there. She tells Terry to be direct and as candid as possible. Oscar has some tough questions about what comes next. She and Drew discussed it, and they want complete transparency. If he’s brave enough to ask tough questions, they have to be brave enough to give him the truth.

Alexis sees Oscar, and says it’s good to see him out of the hospital bed. He says it’s good to be out. He tells her, nothing has changed since the last time. He wants to finish his will. She hugs him. She says she’s sorry the treatment didn’t work out. He says he’ll call her. He has an important meeting to go to right now.

Cameron tells Josslyn that he’s not doing drugs. He has to go to counseling sessions, and has a ridiculous amount of community service to do for his probation. She asks why he’s on probation, and he asks if she remembers when he was wearing a suit. He had to go to court because he got busted buying weed.

Julian thinks Willow should consider something. It might be easier for her to leave Port Charles; start somewhere else without the reminders. She says it’s not an out of sight out of mind situation. It won’t make her forget her son. Julian says he’s not hers son. He’s Lucas and Brad’s son. She says, legally, that’s true, but her heart says differently.

⚠There’s a mini-emergency here, so I miss the next part. It wasn’t that long, and I didn’t have time to fill it in later.⚠

Anna tells Chase to take his brother for coffee; he’s hovering. Griff seconds that, and when they’re gone, Anna tells him it was a good plan. He says it was her idea, but she says it was perfectly executed. If his career in medicine doesn’t work out, there’s a place for him in counter-intelligence can tell her how much damage to eyes

Oscar asks if he’s late, but Kim says she wanted to talk to Terry first. He asks, what about? and she says, no agenda. She wanted to make sure Oscar’s questions were answered directly, no matter how difficult they are. Terry says she’ll do her best, and Oscar says he’s ready. Terry asks where he wants to begin. He asks what it will be like when he’s dying.

Chase tells Finn, slow down. When Anna sent them for coffee, she didn’t mean a thirty-second dash to the vending machine. Finn wants to be by her side, but Chase says that’s what he wants; not Anna. She wants space and to know she’s being taken care of. She’s worried about him, and this is her way of taking care of him. Finn says it’s thoughtful – and annoying. How did Chase get dragged in? Chase says someone Finn cares about is sick, and she thought he could use some support.

Griff tells Anna the surgery went well. She’s stopped hemorrhaging, but he can’t predict when and if her sight will be fully restored. He’s going to remove the bandages, and she can check with the optic surgeon when he comes in. She understands. She’s glad Finn went out; he was hovering all over. He tells her, stop pretending she doesn’t enjoy it, but she says, it’s not fair. Griff says she’s a force of nature. She’s lucky to have someone like Finn to fuss over her. She asks if Griff is okay. It has to be hard for him too. He’s right. She’s lucky she has Finn. He’s used to taking charge, but how does he know this isn’t more than bargained for? He’s very particular. Griff says that’s her fear talking. Finn is totally in love with her, and unflinchingly by her side. She’s the one who got more than she bargained for.

Willow tells Elizabeth there’s been no recent evidence of bullying. Elizabeth asks if she thinks it’s over. Willow says Aiden still prefers to avoid the other kids. He might not want to be around them for some time. Elizabeth asks if she thinks other kids might be bullying him. Willow says, it’s possible. Kids will bully out of teacher range. Elizabeth doesn’t understand why the kids would turn on Aiden. She wonders if there’s something making him a target.

Alexis needs to talk to Julian. He asks what he did now. She tells him to put aside his misguided nobility, and see Kim.

Cameron tells Josslyn how he got arrested. She asks why he didn’t call her. Sonny’s lawyer could have gotten him off in five minutes. She doesn’t know how many times Diane has gotten charges dropped. He wishes he’d known that. His mom got Alexis, and they had an unfriendly judge. He got probation. Garbage pick-up, hospital work, and drug counseling. He doesn’t do drugs, but doesn’t want blow his future with the soccer team. He tells her to stop laughing. She says he cared enough to do that for Oscar; it’s awesome. He says now that Oscar is feeling better, he’ll never live it down. She says she knows Oscar didn’t want tell him, and she’s sorry that it was kept secret, especially since he got arrested. Oscar is never getting better.

Oscar says If he understands what’s coming, he won’t be so afraid. He can prepare as much as possible. He asks if his headaches will be more painful. Terry says they’ll manage the pain with medication, but they will get more severe. He asks about his balance. Will he start falling over? She says, eventually he may have difficulty maintaining his balance. He asks, what about having a stroke? Losing the ability to walk and talk. She says, they’re all possibilities. The symptoms differ in each patient. He might feel normal for a long time. She can’t give a definite answer. He gets up, and Kim asks, what’s the longest a someone with a similar prognosis has survived? Terry says, seven to eight months, and Kim says, the shortest? Terry says, six weeks. Oscar’s water bottle falls out of his hands. Kim goes to him, and hugs him.

Willow tells Elizabeth that kids can form a pack mentality, singling out one child. Aiden is a sweet kid. He takes care of the class Guinea pig, he likes to read, and he’s not into games. He’s taking steps to discover his own identity, and needs the freedom to do that. Elizabeth says they’ve been trying to give that to him. He lives in a non-traditional family. They’re very open, but still want to protect him. Willow says Elizabeth is a caring, involved mother, and Elizabeth says, it’s hard to watch. Willow wants Elizabeth to be assured that she’s monitoring the situation. She tells Elizabeth, remember it’s just one chapter in his life. This too shall pass. Elizabeth hopes it’s soon. She just wants him to be happy.

Aiden explains baking to Franco as he sifts flour. Franco is impressed, and asks where he learn to bake; TV? Aiden says, some. There are books in the library too. He asks if next time, they can make a three-layer chocolate cake. Franco is blown away, and asks why he didn’t tell them he liked baking so much. Aiden puts down the sifter. Franco says at Aiden’s age, he was into drawing. He didn’t tell anyone because he thought it was his special thing. Why he didn’t Aiden tell? Aiden says he didn’t want be laughed at again.

Alexis tells Julian that she ran into Oscar. He asks how Oscar is doing, and she says he needs to call Kim. He asks if the trial’s not working. Oscar is dying? Alexi says Kim needs him. He says she has Drew, but Alexis repeats that she needs Julian. Of all the times for him to back away, this is not a good time.

Josslyn tells Cameron the trial didn’t work. There’s nothing else the doctors can do for Oscar. Cameron sits down. He calls himself an idiot. He went on and on, saying Oscar was an inspiration because he beat cancer. Josslyn thinks Oscar didn’t want to tell him because Cameron had thought he won, and for a moment, Oscar wanted to pretend like he did. Cameron thought Oscar would never die; they’d be able to save him. Josslyn did too. He puts his arm around her, and asks if there’s anything he can do for her or Oscar. She says, just be a friend. He says always he’s there for them both, and she tells him, just stay out of jail.

Kim tells Oscar that he forgot something, and gives him the journal. He says at best, he has six months, probably less, but she tells him, don’t put a clock on it. Cross as many things off the list as possible. She’ll help him do it. She tells him, go be with Josslyn; have fun. He says he loves her. She says she loves him too, and hugs him. He leaves, and I think, this is depressing.

Finn asks if Chase has heard from the schoolteacher, and Chase says she was his date for New Year’s Eve. Finn says he’s totally blushing; he must really like her. Chase thinks so, but Finn never told him what made Anna go blind. Finn says, smooth topic change. Chase says he still wants to know, and Finn says, probably a virus. He’s waiting to get the results back. Griff comes out, and says he’s taking the bandages off. Anna wants Finn with her.

Elizabeth thanks Willow for meeting with her. Aiden is lucky to have such a thoughtful teacher. She has a gift for children. Elizabeth leaves, and gets a text when she’s outside. She says, bio what?

Franco and Aiden sit in front of the television. Aiden asks if they can watch the video where they make breakfast. He asks if Franco wants to watch with him, and Franco says, you better believe it.

Josslyn tells Cameron that she had plans to go to Mexico, New Zealand, and Kansas, where there’s a surgeon who works on inoperable tumors. While she was looking at cures, she got a weird familiar feeling. She asks if he remembers a tournament where they were losing badly. She wasn’t in the game because she’d hurt her ankle. She was on the sidelines, and imagining plays in her head where they would score points. She scored twenty-one points all by herself. It was unrealistic, wishful thinking to avoid the fact they lost. So when she was looking for cures online, she realized what she was doing. She was avoiding facing the fact that this is it. Oscar is going to die. Cameron asks if she stopped looking. She says they decided not to waste the time Oscar has left. They’re just going to make the best out of every day. Cameron gets a text, and says he’s late. If he doesn’t get home, his mom will kill him. He doesn’t want to leave her, but she says, Oscar is coming. He tells her that he’s there for the both of them, and leaves.

Monica sees Kim, and says she heard about Oscar. She’s so sorry. Kim thanks her for being so welcoming. Being part of the Quartermaine family meant the world to Oscar. Monica says it’s been a joy getting to know her grandson, and thanks Kim for sharing him with her. She’ll treasure the times they’ve spent together always. She asks how Kim is, but Kim doesn’t know what to do. Monica understands. There’s no guide book for parents on how to deal with a child’s death. Kim asks, how does she let go of her son?

Griff tells Anna, try and be patient, and takes the bandages off. She can see, but it’s blurry. Finn says, give it a moment; keep breathing. Her vision clears, and she tells him he has beautiful eyes. She cries, and thanks Griff.

Elizabeth walks in the door, and says, it smells yummy. Franco asks Aiden if he’s ready to unveil his creations. He lifts the napkins on the plates, and says, chocolate chip, oatmeal, and sugar cookies with sprinkles. Franco says, he’s a kitchen prodigy. Now she understands the text. Franco says, sorry about the mess. Cameron comes in, and asks if Elizabeth baked. She says, not her, his brother. She asks how counseling was, and he says, okay. Aiden gives him a cookie. He tastes it, and says, dude, this is really good.

Michael sees willow at Charlie’s. He says he’s missed her at meetings, and she tells him that she hasn’t been going as much. He says, that’s good right? That means she’s found peace?

Kim looks in the window, and almost runs into Julian. He says he was out getting marshmallows. There’s been a run on hot chocolate. He heard about Oscar, and he’s so sorry. She is too, and he says Oscar is a good kid. He loves her so much. Maybe she can take comfort in that. She says, for the jerk who slept with someone else, he sure is a good guy. He invites her in for a hot chocolate.

Chase tells Finn that he’s glad Anna is better, but he has to get going. He’s meeting someone. He asks Finn to tell Anna that he’s happy for her. Finn says he hopes Chase and someone have fun. Chase is glad he was there, and Finn says, him too.

Griff says Anna is looking good; no permanent trauma. He looks at her chart, and says it’s strange. He doesn’t recognize some of the markers. He says maybe Finn will have better luck.

Oscar apologizes for making Josslyn wait, but she doesn’t mind. He’s sorry they haven’t had much time lately. She says a lot of people want time with him. He starts to tell her something about what Terry said, but she interrupts. She says, not to be rude, but they’re on her time now, and there’s only one thing she wants to know. They have the whole afternoon ahead; what does he want to do?

Finn looks at Anna’s chart, and she asks him, what is it? He says, a virus he’s never seen North America. She wonders how she got it, but he doesn’t know. She asks if he thinks someone gave it to her intentionally, but he wonders, what would be the point? She asks if he doesn’t know what caused it at all, and he admits he doesn’t.

Elizabeth can’t believe how happy Aiden is. Franco says she should have seen him baking. He was so excited and chatty; full of tips and facts. He’s ready for his own cooking show. Elizabeth doesn’t know how she missed this. Franco thinks Aiden was keeping to himself. He thinks they need to stop worrying about Aiden fitting in, and let Aiden be Aiden. Elizabeth tells him that’s kind of what his teacher said too. Cameron asks Aiden the tablet password. Aiden tells him it’s donut, but the O is a zero and D is capitalized. Cameron logs on, but says he changed his mind. It’s a stupid game. Aiden shows him a cookbook, and Cameron asks about making macaroons. Aiden says it’s a lot of steps. Cameron seems distracted.

Chase meets Willow outside of Charlie’s. He tells her he’s sorry he’s late, but she says she finished her meeting; he’s right on time. From inside, Michael sees them through the window.

Julian sits with Kim, and the sip hot chocolate. He asks if it’s better than a cortado, but she’s not sure. She thinks maybe this is the secret; just staying in the moment, and not thinking about the future.

Josslyn and Oscar go through the journal. She sees he snuck in the dog show, but he’s willing to forego it, if they can take make own pottery class off. Why doesn’t she want to go to the dog show? He definitely wants to do power boating under the stars, and she says she’ll check the dates. He says this one is non-negotiable, pointing to the 16th. It says be with Joss, and she says, totally non-negotiable. Is he ready to get started? Oscar says, let’s do this.

Tomorrow, Peter tells Lulu if the PCPD won’t talk, find someone who will; Laura declines not-Doc’s request; Ava tells Scotty that he’s not going to see her anymore; and Mike tells Sonny, if he sees Mike coming, walk the other way.

The Haves and The Have Nots

Candace asks how Benny is. Mitch says, that’s the president, but Charles says, not yet. Candace wants to see the doctor, but Hanna says he’s in surgery; don’t bother that man. Charles introduces himself. He’s sorry for the circumstances. Hanna asks how Candace met him, and he tells her, through a mutual friend. He’s pretty fond of her. Hanna says, is that right? Charles says Candace told him a lot about he; good things. Hanna says she voted for him because she thought he was honest and decent. Now she knows he’s a politician. Candace tells her that she said Hanna was a wonderful grandmother and protected Candace’s son with her own life.

They wait. Candace says Hanna was an amazing grandmother. Her son would be alive if Hanna wasn’t so amazing. Hanna is like, what? She says she’s still Candace’s mother, and will still slap the piss out of her. Candace says Hanna has no respect for class. Hanna says Candace sent that man to her house, and Candace says she has no idea what Hanna is talking about. Hanna asks Charles if he has any idea who he’s sitting next to. He says he thinks he does, and Hanna says he has people do background checks and knows everything there is to know? He says he does, and she says, and he’s still sitting there? He says, yeah. She tells him, it will be an interesting four years. He says they’re open for eight, but Hanna says he’s sitting with Candace. He’ll get four. If he’s lucky, two. Landon thinks it’s a good time to go to the children’s ward. Charles wants to stay with Candace, and Candace asks if there’s anything else Hanna wants to tell him. Hanna says, he’ll find out what there is to know.

Charles says when he was in law school, there was a fascinating case. A mother and daughter were locked in a battle over the father’s ashes. They spent tons of money and hours going at each other, and missed great moments in each other’s lives. After eighteen years, the mother got tired, and gave the daughter the ashes. The daughter put them on a shelf, and cried for days. Not over the ashes. She realized they’d been fighting over something dead and gone; over. She’d wasted the best years of her life; they both did, fighting over the past

Veronica’s doorbell rings. We see the elusive Alice! Veronica asks if she heard the damn door, and she also wants another drink. Whoever is at the door can wait. Alice starts fixing her drink, and Veronica asks if she washed her hands. Alice says she did, but Veronica wants to check. She says Alice’s nails are filthy; go clean them. She’ll get the door. She grumbles the whole way, and gets herself a drink.

RK walks in, and asks what’s wrong with her? She says she’s fine. She wants him to help her get her son. She asks if he saw Jeffrey at the hospital, and he says, it was crawling with secret service; he doesn’t know why. She says he was supposed to get her son. He takes her drink out of her hand, and tells her that he’ll take her ass in a minute. She says she’s not in the mood, and tells him, get out. He says he’s famished, and knows the fridge is full. Veronica says she’s not playing. Alice comes back, and RK asks her to please get him something to eat. He suggests they go to the kitchen together. Veronica says Alice doesn’t wash her hands. He says they’ll take care of that. Veronica says, little boy thinks he’s a man.

Jim tells one of the hotel staff to open the door, but the guy says Mrs. Cryer is already in there. Jim walks in on Kathryn’s threesome and asks if she’s serious. She says, hello, Jim. Jim tells Roderick and Rocky to get their asses out of bed right now. Kathryn says they’re not going anywhere, but Jim says if they don’t get out, he’ll burn the building to the ground with their sorry butts in it. They jet, and Kathryn tells them, same time next week. Jim asks what the hell is the matter with her? She says, him. He tells her that she’s lost her mind, but she says she’s just keeping up. He says they don’t want her, but she doesn’t care; her body wanted them. He says they have a problem, and she says they always do. That’s why she needed a break. She understands why he does this now; it took her mind off of everything. He tells her that Sarah was at their house; his informant. Kathryn says, another one of his whores? She thinks that’s fourteen now. She’s only had five or six, and has a lot of catching up. He says Sarah was wearing a wire, and knows about the bullets. Kathryn says, her word against his, but he says, someone is going to jail. He can guarantee it. Maybe he should let them haul her ass to prison. She says, it might be a welcome relief. She says she doesn’t care. If she goes, they all go. She tells him to figure it out. They wore her out and she loved it. She wasted a lot of time, and should have gotten young boys a long time ago. As Jim walks out, she tells him to send them back.

Roderick tells Rocky that he has a plan. If he plays it right… Rocky says that woman is going to use him. Roderick says, not if he uses her first. Jim comes up behind Roderick, and punches him. He says he needs to talk to him, and tells Rocky to get his scrawny, tattooed ass back there. He tells the other patrons to finish their drinks; they’re just having a conversation. He tells them if they go near his wife again, they won’t have her to worry about. They’ll have him. She barks; he bites. Do they understand? He thinks Roderick is giving attitude, and he doesn’t have Roderick’s undivided attention. He punches Roderick in the balls, and says if he goes near her again, he’ll have no more need of those. Jim has unsavory friends in low places, who would consider it a personal favor to him to cut Roderick. It’s like a vasectomy. They say it doesn’t hurt, but they’re full of sh*t. He tells Roderick to get out of his sight, and tells Rocky, don’t just stand there; get him a drink – and some hand sanitizer, neat.

Justin shows up at the hospital, and sees Jeffrey in the hallway with Madison. He says he’s been calling Jeffrey, and Jeffrey says, apparently he has Madison’s number too. Justin asks where’s he been; out with him? Madison tries to pass Justin, and he grabs at Madison, but Madison shakes him off. Justin says he’s getting sick of this, then asks how Jeffrey is. Jeffrey says, good, and he asks if he’s going to see Jeffrey later. Jeffrey says he’s looking after his dad, and doesn’t want to do this now. He’s busy. Justin starts punching Jeffrey, and they tussle. Justin gets Jeffrey down on the floor, twisting Jeffrey’s arm behind his back. Madison flies out, along with security. Justin threatens the guard. Madison tells the other employees, there’s nothing to see, and asks if Jeffrey is okay. He tells Jeffrey that he needs to get away from that guy; he’s serious. Jeffrey knows, and Madison says he’s not the enemy. He tells Jeffrey that he needs to get checked out.

Candace wonders what’s taking so long. Hanna says, they’re in surgery, and Landon says he’ll see what he can find out. Hanna protests, but Charles says, he can ask the nurse. Hanna says, they won’t tell him anything, and Charles says, they might. Mitch says, he’ll go too, and introduces himself to Landon. Landon says he’s tall, and Mitch says, every damn day, my man. Charles asks if Hanna or Candace want coffee, but it’s just him.

Landon tells the doctor that they’ve come to check on Benny. He recognizes Mitch, who’s like, don’t even. He leads them to Benny’s room. The doctor tells Benny to lie down, but Benny says he’s getting out. He asks who Landon is. Landon suggests he go with the doctor to talk to Hanna. They leave, and Mitch tells Benny that he knows Benny wants to be Superman, but he needs to get better; he was shot. Benny says he was stabbed. He was on the porch, and there was a boy circling around while Benny was messing with his phone. The next thing he knew, the kid was on top of him, talking about his family. Mitch says, not his family. The don’t come on a bike sticking people. Benny asks who did it, but Mitch doesn’t know. Benny asks if he called it off, but he says he can’t find his grandmother. Benny says he’s getting out, and Mitch agrees it’s not a bad idea. His Uncle Vinnie is there, and his family is hanging around. Mitch helps Benny up.

Charles says his team has to check out the kitchen. He thinks it’s overkill, but Derrick says he’s an important man. He congratulates Charles, and Hanna asks what he’s doing with her daughter. Dating her? Candace says they’re just having sex. Charles tells her to show respect to her mother. Candace says Hanna doesn’t know anything about it.

Landon comes back with the doctor, who wants to talk to them. He tells Charles this would be a good time to see the kids. Candace stays in the waiting room. Derrick asks if Hanna is okay. She says she’s fine, tells Candace that she’s going to end up in jail. Candace says she just came to see her brother; be quiet. The doctor says, there’s a problem. Benny is out of surgery, but he won’t stay. Benny and Mitch join them. Hanna says he was shot, but Benny says, stabbed. He just wants to go home. If he can’t get a ride, he’ll take the bus. The doctor says he can’t keep Benny. Mitch says maybe he should stay. The doctor says his wound should be watched, and Benny is like, yeah, yeah, and walks out. Everyone follows.

Madison cleans up Jeffrey’s face. He doesn’t think Jeffrey’s jaw is broken. He asks why Jeffrey stays, and Jeffrey says Justin won’t leave him alone. Madison suggests a restraining order. Jeffrey asks if Madison thinks it’s that serious, and I question Jeffrey’s intelligence. Madison says Jeffrey studied this; doesn’t he see it? Jeffrey he thinks he can control Justin, but Madison thought that too. He had a guy who was crazy like that. Jeffrey asks what happened, and Madison says he moved away, and never saw him again. Jeffrey says he can’t move away, and Madison says, so get a restraining order. Jeffrey says Justin has lost a lot – his wife, his family. Madison asks what that means. Jeffrey said it himself, Justin has nothing to lose. Jeffrey says he needs to see his dad.

Wyatt is surprised to find Sarah still in the kitchen. She asks if he’s heard from Jim; he said he was calling someone. Wyatt says he’s not picking up. She needs to talk to him, and Wyatt offers to call again, but he needs something from her. He wants her to pick up a package. She asks what kind, and the guard says one that will get her arrested. She says she can’t do that. She’s not waiting any longer. Wyatt swears Jim will be there in ten minutes.

Jeffrey says David looks better; he’s dressed. David explains about the vest he’s wearing, and says, it’s painful at times, but he hopes he’s going home today. He wonders if Jeffrey found what he asked for, and Jeffrey says, no. Mom was at the house. David asks what happened, and Jeffrey says, she fell off the balcony. David asks if he pushed her, and Jeffrey says he wanted to. She was taunting him, but it gets worse. She’s all right. She’s fine; she won’t die. David says she’s still his mother, and it’s inappropriate. Jeffrey says, she’s inappropriate. There’s something else, and David says, of course there is. Jeffrey tells him that Erica was working with Candace and Veronica. He’s sorry to be the one to tell him. He saw a text on Erica’s phone from Candace, and when he saw her picture, he remembered her from Candace’s house. David says, so Erica was playing him. Jeffrey is sorry. David says, it’s okay, but Jeffrey says, it’s not. David says Jeffrey’s mother was in on setting him up? Jeffrey thinks so, but David says, they don’t get along. Jeffrey thinks they teamed up, but can’t be sure. He asks if Jeffrey’s on good speaking terms with Candace, and Jeffrey says, somewhat. David tells him to call now and ask her. He needs to be certain. Jeffrey calls, but gets voicemail. He doesn’t leave a message. Davis tells him to see what he can find out. He wants to go home; he’s not staying another day. He tells Jeffrey to call his doctor. Jeffrey calls Madison in. David says he wants to go home now, but Madison says his wounds need professional care. David says Madison is a nurse; he can tend to David’s burns at home. He knows the hospital director. Jeffrey will be there, so Madison can see him more often. Madison tells Jeffrey that his parents are stubborn. Jeffrey says, as hell, and Madison says, he shouldn’t leave. Jeffrey says, you tell him.

Wyatt lies down on his bed, and the guard goes into the hallway. Wyatt pulls something out from under his pillow, and slips out to the balcony. Hadn’t Jim posted guards out there? What happened to them? Wyatt drops down a line of sheets he’s tied together. I laugh because it’s so cliché. He climbs down and runs.

In the parking garage, Madison calls Jeffrey, and says he’s on his way. His dad has pull. He tells Jeffrey that he’s in the parking lot, and Jeffrey says, that’s not good. Madison gets to his car, which has bullet holes in it, and is messed up in general. Madison says, damn; his car. It’s destroyed. Jeffrey says, Justin. Madison says he’ll call Jeffrey back. He has to hang up to call security. Jeffrey doesn’t want him to hang up – for the record, neither do I – and tells him to walk back first.

Madison doesn’t listen, hangs up, and gets whacked with a tire iron. He lies in the parking lot, unconscious.

Next time, Jeffrey finds Erica’s book, Sarah tells Jim she’ll do anything to not go to jail – and she means anything, Veronica tells RK to get out and he says it’s not going to happen, Wyatt disappears, Candace asks Landon if she’s a beard, and David tells Veronica that he’s going to kill her. Wow. That’s a lot.

Below Deck

Everyone stumbles out the morning after. Rhylee asks if Tyler remembers making out with a chick. He doesn’t, but says he came back home to her. They make out.

In his interview, Ashton says it’s never fun picking up the pieces the morning after. You don’t know what you did or said. He has some investigating to do. Laura asks if he recalls how drunk he was. He thinks she was mad at him, but she says she wasn’t. Kate irons, saying, this is her sad, pathetic life. Ross asks how Rhylee’s night was, and she says she went to bed like they did. The crew swabs the deck. In Ross’s interview, he says since Tyler joined the boat, Rhylee’s mood has improved. He’s a great addition to the team.

Kate says Laura has fallen in line since Captain Lee talked to her. Laura tells Kate about Ashton being with another girl at the bar, and how she told him that she wasn’t coming home to cuddle with him. Kate says she’s not his backup lady. Ross callas Ashton a slut. Laura isn’t pursuing the situation, but Kate has the feeling he’ll come to Laura.

Ross talks to Ashton about his son. He says his baby mama is a great mother; she always puts their son first. He’s embarrassed about how he was during their time together. He was trying to be cool. She’s a part of his life, and his best friend. He hopes they can eventually work something out. Ashton thinks it takes strong character to move ahead and improve.

Charley Walters is a return guest, but he wasn’t the primary last time. Kate says he had a primary personality. They were stuck at the dock because of the weather. On his preference sheet, Charley indicates that he’s looking forward to pushing off the dock. Captain Lee laughs. Charley wants to make unforgettable memories with his friends. They want to have an all gold party, and a wig party. They train for fitness events, so they want healthy foods. The captain says, no sugar is going to be a tough one.

Rhylee and Laura watch the sunset. Rhylee tells Laura that she and Tyler did it five times. She elaborates, and I don’t know if Laura feels it’s TMI, but I definitely do. In her interview, Rhylee says her plan is to keep getting laid. She tells Laura that they fit together quite nicely.

The crew gets some sleep. In the morning, provisions come in. Laura and Josiah make beds. She can tell by the photos the guests are going to expect them to be all, yas queen. In his interview, Josiah talks about being picked on when he was younger. The guests are going to be eight gay guys who look like the ones who used to bully him, and he’s not looking forward to the charter.

Tyler likes Rhylee. They flirt all day, have sex, and he can kiss other girls, but she still doesn’t hate him. He’s marrying her. In Kate’s interview, she says Laura told her the gossip. She has to stake her claim. Ashton tells Adrian that he doesn’t know how to read Laura. Adrian says, off the bat, she wanted to be with Ashton, but didn’t want to be another number. In his interview, Adrian says he knows what Laura likes, and if this is a competition, bring it on. He won’t get pissed because it would be a show of weakness. Adrian says at the club, he saw Ashton with a hundred other women.

The crew gets in their whites. Ashton puts on cologne. The champagne is poured. The guests arrive. Kate presents flower crowns. Captain Lee says they’ll get off the dock asap. Kate gives the tour, and the luggage is loaded. Charley says the master bathroom is the nicest yacht bathroom he’s ever seen. Kate takes drink orders; eight tequila shots. Bleh. The guests go up to the bar. Josiah plays bartender, and they toast to him. He just wants out of there.

The guests cheer when the boat starts to move. We see some fabulous scenery, and Rhylee says, when you’re working, sometimes you forget you’re in the most romantic place on earth. Josiah tells Kate about being bullied for wearing a tank top, and being called fat. Everyone always looked better then he did, and he’s feeling insecure right now. Ashton thinks they should keep the guests busy. Charley tells the others that he thinks Josiah is gay, but they’re not sure. Really? Charley says he has good ‘dar. Yeah, me too, but this one was a no ‘dar-er.

The wind picks up, and the captain tells everyone to hang on. The crew brings some stuff inside. Suddenly, furniture starts to slide, pans fall out of cupboards, and wine bottles are rolling around. Josiah says the boat went sideways. Wine is everywhere, and it’s a sh*t show. Captain Lee says, it’s going to be a rough ride. He wants things battened down more. Kate asks how long before they can serve lunch, and he tells her twenty minutes. She asks the guests if she can get them anything, and one of them sarcastically says, lunch. Har-har-hardy-har-har. In lieu of that, she gets them tequila shots.

Laura tells the guys to fetch their boxers from the laundry room. There’s a bunch, and she doesn’t know what belongs to whom. The guests pronounce Tahiti more gorgeous than Hawaii. The captain asks the deckhands for four shots, referring to the boat, and I misunderstand, thinking, wow. Even he’s drinking now?  They drop anchor, and the water toys are produced. Adrian says they’re all about being fit, and requested a light lunch. With the first meal, he likes to stick with the preference sheet. If it’s exactly what they’ve asked for, and they don’t like it, he knows they have a problem.

Kate wants to like them. Lunch is served. Adrian presents baby lobster and local fresh water shrimp, along with curried zucchini. I’m dying. Charley says it’s awesome and incredible. Kate tells Josiah, my name’s Kate, and I hate my life right now. One of the guests asks when they’re getting the main course, and Kate asks if they’re still hungry. They’re thinking pizza and mozzarella sticks, which doesn’t sound all that healthy, or light, to me. They make a lot of hand gestures, and in her interview, Kate says she doesn’t need a puppet show. Ask like an adult. She tells Adrian, and he says, light lunch. He gets out a slab of beef, and Kate tells them that Adrian is cooking up steak. They want to jump in the water in the meantime, and Kate says she’ll call them back when the food is ready. They jump off the boat and onto floaties. Kate tells Adrian not to feel rushed.

The guests come back, demanding steak. One whines that he thought they were eating at 2:30 it’s 3:30, apparently forgetting that they already ate baby lobster and shrimp. And zucchini. He says the chef underestimated their appetites. A guest comes to the galley, and says they’re starving. In Kate’s interview, she says, you’re not funny; you’re not charming. There are too many d*cks on one boat. Lunch is served one more time. A guest grips that their steak is more medium than rare. In her interview, Kate says, these guests are just a-holes. Adrian says the steak was perfectly cooked. Give him an effing break. It’s going to be a long two days. Kate brings back another steak. In her interview, she says, go bother the deckhands.

The guests see the slide and trampoline, and run upstairs. They play some more on the toys. In his interview, Josiah says, they came on the boat just to be difficult, and they’re doing a good job of it. He asks if Ashton is going out with those twats. Ashton asks why he’s so stressed, and Josiah says they’re being annoying. Laura offers go down. In Laura’s interview, she says since she told Kate to check herself, she has been. She’s been getting to know Laura now. Aston tells Ross that Rhylee hasn’t been this happy all season, and Ross tells him about Tyler, who’s making a Skippy peanut butter sandwich. Rhylee asks Adrian if he needs anything, and he says, just a life.

Kate announces the gold party will be tonight. Adrian is re-strategizing. He’s making double quantities until they can’t handle it anymore. Charley has brought along a gold Speedo, and they want Josiah to ear it tonight. Josiah says he’s too fat. Ashton was a stripper. He’s used to skimpy outfits. He doesn’t want be anyone’s clown. Can’t say I blame him. Laura says he has a cute bum. He tries on the Speedo, and thinks it’s small.

Dinner is delayed because two guys are passed out. Adrian says, cracking guests. He doesn’t know how much more he can take. Josiah wears the Speedo, along with the matching shirt, under his uniform. Guest Billy is unaccounted for, and Laura finds him passed out on the toilet. She calls Josiah, who cracks up. Adrian tells Ashton the guests have been drinking since they got there. Josiah tells Kate about Billy, and Kate joins them. She doesn’t want him to hit his head. They have to take him to bed. In her interview, Kate says there’s no good answer for what she’s seeing.

Billy makes a noise, startling everyone. Josiah suggests helping him to bed, and he says he was just using the bathroom. He’s fine. The guests gather for dinner, one wearing a tutu. Not that there’s anything wrong with that. All the décor is gold. Billy emerges, and at 10 pm, Adrian is plating the first course; a ginger carrot stew, with Alaskan king crab in a golden chariot. I don’t know what the hell a golden chariot is, but I want to eat one. Charley says the food is A+. Josiah says he’s never worn anything like this; it’s crushingly tight. His voice is getting higher by the second. Rhylee asks why Tyler moved to his own bunk, and he says they’re working. He’s trying to be professional.

Just thinking about tomorrow, Kate is exhausted. Charley bitches that the next course is slow in coming. Adrian comes with it. Charley says they’ve been waiting a while; tell them all about it. In his interview, Adrian says he just wants to go to bed. Adrian tells them it’s lobster and sweet corn gnocchi, but adds several more adjectives. Charley says it’s good. One of the guests says they were scared for a second. Of what? Charley? The gnocchi?

Ashton finds Laura on deck. He tells her that he feels foolish about how he acted, and apologizes. He likes her, and wonders if they can pick up where they were before he was a bit of a hooligan. She thinks he’s super cool, honest, and genuine, so it’s not an issue. He says they’re making progress. In Laura’s interview, she thinks it says a lot about Ashton to apologize. She wants to see how things go, and have them organically happen.

Kate tells Adrian the guests loved the food. The captain breezes through, and asks Josiah, what’s up, Goldfinger? Adrian, who’s made a complicated-sounding dessert, asks the captain if he’d like some white chocolate grass. The captain takes a pass. The guests find the dessert gross; there’s too much sugar. Charley admits it’s his fault, and says there’s no taste. In her interview, Kate says she doesn’t think her pulling out Prince Harry in a twink costume would make them happy. Josiah volunteers to bring out shots in the gold lame outfit. Kate tells the guests she has a mini surprise. Josiah makes up some shots that involve Chambord, and takes off his uniform. Kate says, holy sh*t, and asks, is it real? Damn! She says, of course he’s gay. She can’t not look. The guests get in the hot tub. Laura tells Adrian that her sixth sense told her that Josiah had a big d*ck.

Josiah feels extremely exposed. The guests all have good bodies. They’re comfortable and flirty, while he’s an introvert and uncomfortable. Kate tells him, go; they’ll love it. They applaud when they see Josiah. He tells them about a shot in England called the Jammy Dodger. Rhylee takes a picture of everyone. Josiah thinks it was a huge step out of his comfort zone. He needs to stop caring so much what people think, and enjoy the moment. Everyone turns in.

Tyler kisses Rhylee, and they end up in the same bunk. The next morning, anchor is locked, and the yacht is off. A chai latte on ice sounds really good, but it is like 3 degrees where I am right now. Kate begs the Tahitian gods not to make the guests as hideous as last night. The table is laden with flowers.

Kate thanks Laura. In her interview, Kate says she appreciates that it clicked in Laura’s brain that she’s just here to help. It’s all they ever wanted, and finally taking initiative. Laura tells Rhylee that Adrian’s general comments all day are a huge turn-off. We see clips of him making suggestive remarks to her. She says she’s trying be chill and laugh it off, but it’s awkward. Rhylee says Adrian is crazy as **** (not sure what the word was). Charley wears bunny ears to breakfast. Kate loves it when crew members have sex with each other. It makes them cheerful. A guest asks for a vodka tonic, and it’s already in Kate’s hand. She’s my kind of bartender. Laura asks Aston for cigarette, and he says it will cost her. In Ashton’s interview, he says they’re in the beginning stages, and he’s going to steal as many kisses as he can. Laura kisses him.

It’s jet ski time. Ross goes over the parameters, telling them where they can go, and something about a kill cord. It looks like fun. Uh-oh. Two guests fall off a jet ski, and it’s still in motion. The jet ski is going crazy. Captain Lee says it’s a 900-pound vehicle with no driver or brakes. WTF is going on? This is not funny. 

Next time, a birthday guest, Adrian won’t leave Laura alone, Tyler doesn’t want to be part of Rhylee’s life, a guest gets angry when woken up on deck, and Kate didn’t get into yachting to watch spoiled princesses sleep.

🌇 Night Night…

It’s time for bye-byes.

January 14, 2019 – Not-Doc Adds to His List, a Mom/Girls Night, Stassi’s Mom, Habitrails & LA Slide

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What I Watched Today

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

 

General Hospital

Valentin sees Curtis at the MetroCourt. Curtis asks where Nina is, and Valentin wonders if Curtis is there to see her. Curtis says he’s evaluating the security system to make sure it’s on point. He asks about Windymere, and Valentin says his home is a fortress. Curtis asks if he has any idea where Nina is staying, and Valentin says she’s back home, where she belongs.

Obrecht say there’s something Nina needs to know about her daughter. Nina says she just found out her daughter was alive; there’s a lot she still has to find out. She tried to pack in a lifetime of experiences into Sasha’s visit without overwhelming her, but they have miles to go. She’s enjoying the journey, and nothing Obrecht says will diminish her joy. Obrecht suggests her joy will turn into disappointment one day. Wait and see.

Franco flips through Doc’s patient files. He sees the locked box, and takes it out. Carly asks what he’s up to. He says she almost gave him a heart attack. She says, if only, and asks why he’s ransacking Doc’s office. He says he’s doing research. He’s trying to find out why Doc would treat him like dirt. Franco wants to talk, but Doc has been putting him off, and nothing he says makes sense. Carly says that’s why she’s there too.

Not-Doc tells Ava that he thinks they should leave town. She says she’s not in any mood for a vacation, but he says he’s not talking about a vacation. Forever. He thinks they should leave Port Charles for good. She doesn’t understand. He wants to her to move away with him? He says, yes; far away, like Lisbon or Madrid. She says not long ago, he convinced her to stay. He says he didn’t want her to walk out of his life. He didn’t anticipate the opposition to their relationship, and it was before Kiki was killed. If they move, she won’t be haunted by memories, and see Kiki around every corner. He can take her away from all that. Just the two of them. They only need each other. No one will ever find them. He asks her. please say yes.

Alexis brings a big gift-wrapped package to Charlie’s. Sam says she shouldn’t have. Alexis says it’s for her sister, but she can get one for Sam. She got it for Kristina’s new home, since she found out Kristina moved out of Sam’s. She’s not judging. Kristina didn’t give her an address – she’s still not judging – and she thought Kristina would be working today. Sam had the same idea, and Alexis asks, where’s her gift? Sam says she doesn’t have a gift, but a warning about Kristina’s new home.

Sonny meets Jason at the MetroCourt. He has information about Kristina. Sonny says, when he saw her, she seemed confident and positive. Jason tells him that Sam said the same thing, but he thinks there are things Sonny might not realize. Has she mentioned Shiloh to him?

Sonny asks, who’s Shiloh? and Jason says he’s the leader of the people Kristina moved in with. Sonny says, leader? Jason says he was surprised too. Sonny thought Kristina was moving in with a group of friends, but Jason says, there’s definitely a guy in charge. He calls himself Shiloh. Sonny asks what he was called before that. Kristina approaches the table and says she can’t believe it. Why? Does Jason want her dad to worry? Jason thinks there’s something he should know. Kristina says she’s giving Jason her power. She allowed herself to react negatively, but she can change that, and focus on the positive energy from collecting food for the soup kitchen. Sonny asks if they’re the same people she spent Thanksgiving with. She says yes. She’s happy, and perfectly safe. Jason says he and Sam don’t think so.

Alexis says, yesterday, Sam was giving her blessing, and took her anxiety about Kristina down a notch. Should she put Kristina back on top? Sam says that’s why she’s there; to talk to Kristina. Alexis asks if it has to do with the serial killer, but Sam says, it’s not that bad. Alexis asks what happened between yesterday and today; what’s going on? She needs to know.

Nina says the only person disappointing her is Obrecht. She went along with Obrecht’s delusional plan to hold Peter captive, and thought she could be trusted. Obrecht says she’s trying to help. She doesn’t want Nina to end up with a broken heart. Nina says Britt broke Obrecht’s heart; her daughter won’t be doing that to her. Obrecht says she taught Britt to be pragmatic. She’s out of prison, and Obrecht is grateful. Nina says Britt betrayed Obrecht to save her own skin. She’s done nothing to alienate Sasha. Obrecht asks who’s to say Sasha won’t alienate Nina?

Franco says it’s unusual for he and Carly to be in agreement. She says they might both be there for the same reason, but they’re dealing with it differently. She showed up to talk to Doc; he’s ransacking Doc’s office. He has no business looking through patients’ private files. Franco says he’s looking for his own file. Carly asks if he wants to switch therapists that bad, but Franco says it’s not his choice. Doc doesn’t want to see him anymore. He spilled his guts to Doc, and now he’s telling Franco to get lost.

Ava says not-Doc has patients who rely on him, and good friends he’s known for years. He says he thought about that already. His associates can take over his patients. He’s been so focused on her; his patients have taken a backseat anyway. All he wants is to be with her. As for his friends, they turned on him when he left Laura. With friends like that… She can open a gallery anywhere in the world. Investors and artists will appreciate what she can do for them. He’ll do anything to make a life with her. She says he makes it sound wonderful, possible, and exactly what she needs to heal. But he’s forgetting about Avery. She couldn’t leave her little girl.

Curtis says, Nina and Valentin are back together? That’s unexpected, since she seemed determined to stay away from him. Valentin says when they love each other, why stay apart? Curtis says finding Nina’s daughter must have been the key to her heart. Valentin says, it didn’t hurt. He thanks Curtis for his help. He made Nina happy, and that makes Valentin happy. He’ll keep her safe from the killer, and anyone else intent on harming her.

Nina says Obrecht is giving her vague hints on how Sasha will disappoint and hurt her, when she knows nothing about Sasha. Why is she doing it? Obrecht hates to see Nina wallow in the blindness that accompanies love. She needs to keep her eyes open, and not be taken in again. Obrecht was aware of Faison’s true nature, but Nina refuses to see Valentin for who he is. Nina asks how dare she compare Valentin with Faison? Faison killed her brother. Obrecht says, Valentin killed Laura’s son. How is he better than Faison?

Sam tells Alexis that Kristina is crazy about Shiloh. He’s the head of the charity Kristina is working with. She shows Alexis a picture of him on her tablet, and says Dawn of Day is also the name of the house Kristina is living in. She says he turned her life around. Alexis wonders why Sam doesn’t like him. Sam asks what’s in the box, and Alexis tells her, that’s not even an artful dodge. She expects better from Sam. She wants to get 100% behind Kristina, but it sounds like she’s in over her head. Sam thinks that could be the case.

Sonny says Jason told him that’s the guy who runs the organization Kristina loves so much; Shiloh. Kristina tells him that he says it in an ominous way, like Shiloh must be running from the cops. Jason says he checked, and Shiloh has no police record. Sonny says if Kristina doesn’t want Jason telling him, she should tell him herself. She says his name used to be David Henry, and he went by Hank. He changed his life after Drew saved him in Afghanistan. Drew pulled him out of a fire fight. When he came back to the states, he started a charity, but Jason and Sam think he’s too good to be true. They’re questioning him for no reason. Shiloh has taught her so much. She loves helping people; it makes her happy. Sonny is happy to hear that. She says she gets it. They’re looking out for her, and she appreciates that. She hugs Sonny, and leaves. Sonny asks Jason, what’s really going on? Jason says, Shiloh isn’t just connected to Drew, but he’s also linked to Sam. She was married to his father.

Ava tells not-Doc, as wonderful as it would be to get away from hateful people, she wouldn’t want to leave her daughter. He says it was thoughtless of him. He has an easy fix. Take Avery; they can be a family. Ava says, that’s not possible. He asks, why? and she says, because of Sonny and Carly.

Carly sees how disconcerting it is to Franco. Franco says Doc coaxed horrible memories out of him, then said they’d plateaued. He doesn’t want see Franco, and is pawning him off on another therapist. Carly says Doc is in crisis. He’s pushing everyone away, including his wife, and hanging out with Ava. If that’s not a cry for help, she doesn’t know what is. He’s doing it to everyone. He’s blowing her off, and she has unanswered questions about Ferncliff. She says Franco taught art therapy there. Has he ever encountered a Wilson Ritter?

Nina tells Obrecht that Valentin killed Nikolas in self-defense. He’s nothing like the freak Faison was. And what does that have to do with her daughter? Obrecht says Nina should be alert. She’s looking out for what she has left of her family. Nina says Obrecht’s love is the most hurtful thing about her, and asks her to leave until she’s ready to speak with her again. Obrecht tells Nina to remember what she said. In the reception area, Obrecht runs into Valentin. Valentin asks what she said to Nina, and she says nothing that will warrant triggering her fail-safe. Nina is convinced there are similarities in Nathan and Sasha, and that will only make it more crushing when Nina discovers Sasha isn’t her daughter.

Franco says he dealt with a lot of patients at Ferncliff, but none of them were super chatty. Does she have something else for him to work with? Carly says the patient knew Morse code. Did he ever hear the staff mention him. Supposedly, he was the worst of worst. Franco says they didn’t allow him to work with the violent patients, saying they were too far gone – which is crap – but it kept him from getting stabbed with a paintbrush. She asks if he’s ever heard about him when doing research, but he says, no. She says there’s no mention of him online. How was he able to avoid publicity? Franco suggests he was lucky. Publicity follows him like toilet paper on his shoe. Maybe the answers are in this box.

Not-Doc says Ava can make arrangements. Sonny and Carly should be amenable to longer visiting periods. She asks if he’s met them. She’s pretty sure amenable isn’t in their vocabulary. She had to fight to see Avery on a regular basis in the first place. Not-Doc says it would be in Avery’s best interest for them to agree, but Ava says Sonny doesn’t think so, and keeps threatening to take her back to court. With Kiki gone, she can’t handle being without Avery. Not-Doc says he’ll talk to Sonny, and make him rethink his position. He can be very persuasive.

Sonny asks if Kristina knows Sam was married to Shiloh’s father. Jason says he and Sam confronted Shiloh, but he claimed it never occurred to him. Before he was on their radar, Sam was receiving emails from someone who clearly knows her past. Shiloh said he wasn’t involved, but who else could it be? Shiloh is using Kristina as payment, and giving her individual attention.

Sam asks if Alexis remembers the obituary she got in the mail. Alexis asks what that has to do with Kristina, and Sam says, a lot. Kristina walks in, and says Sam and Jason are on the same page. She just left Jason who was warning Sonny about Shiloh. Alexis says she wasn’t expecting to see Sam. She has a present for Kristina. She hands her the gift, and says, it cooks fast using less energy. Kristina says it’s incredibly thoughtful, and thanks her. Alexis hopes it comes in handy. Sam tells Kristina that she’s sorry it got heated. Kristina thanks Sam for the apology, and says she’s there for the unused perishables for the soup kitchen. Sam says she wants to tell Alexis something that happened, but thinks they both need to hear it. Kristina asks if it’s a dire warning because Shiloh used to have another name. Sam says, more than that. She used to run a con when she was younger. She’s marry rich guys, drain their bank accounts, and disappear. She married Henry Archer, Shiloh’s father, and is afraid he’s using Kristina to get back at her.

Carly tells Franco that she’s taking the simple route, and will ask Doc when he gets there. Obviously, he’s having a difficult time, but that doesn’t negate the good he did for them. Maybe Franco should just accept it and move on. Franco says he doesn’t want another therapist. He trusted Doc, and Doc bailed on him. He doesn’t want to open a vein to a stranger. He tells Carly that his file isn’t there. Maybe the Doc’s patients aren’t the only ones with secrets.

Ava tells not-Doc not to take it the wrong way, but he’s a gentle soul, and far too civilized to go up against Sonny and Carly. He says under the right circumstances, he’s a force to be reckoned with.  He asks if she wants to give up. She says she’d go to the ends of the earth with him, if they could have Avery with them. But short of Sonny and Carly falling off the face of the earth, she doesn’t see that happening.

Jason tells Sonny that he can’t be sure; anything is possible. Sonny hopes he’s wrong. He doesn’t want Kristina to think he’s questioning her judgement. Jason just thought he’d give Sonny a heads up, and Sonny says to tell him if Jason uncovers anything else. No one is using his daughter.

Sam tells Kristina and Alexis that she started receiving messages about her past. Kristina says she thinks Shiloh is responsible, and Sam says it seems like a possibility. Kristina says not if she knew him. He has no ill will toward the woman who stole from his father; he wrote about it in his book. He didn’t mention a name, since she used an alias anyway. Sam asks if she doesn’t think it’s a coincidence that Kristina ended up in his son’s group. Kristina wonders how Sam is making it about her. It could have been anyone; she doesn’t care. All she knows is that Shiloh said she was a bridge to his betterment. Something you get over on your way to a better life. Just like they’re a bridge to her betterment.

Valentin tells Obrecht that Nina’s daughter brought her joy, but Obrecht says it was a lie to get Nina back in his bed. When exposed, it will break her heart. Valentin says Obrecht is the only one who knows, and if it’s exposed, he’ll break more than her heart. Obrecht say, what if Sasha slips? Nina is quite intelligent, and not everyone is as good as they are at subterfuge. Valentin says Sasha is back in Chappaqua, but Obrecht says, it’s a temporary solution. Nina is pushing to see the woman she thinks is her daughter.

Nina is glad Sasha answered. She just wanted to hear Sasha’s voice, and tell her that Paris still on the table.

Valentin tells Obrecht to Just focus on keeping her mouth shut. He’s aware of the letters she has in place, so they’re at a stalemate. She doesn’t know about him, and he doesn’t know about her. She gets in the elevator, and the door closes.

Valentin goes into Nina’s office. She says she missed him. He asks what she and Obrecht talked about. Nina says Obrecht predicted her daughter would disappoint her, and compared Valentin to Faison. She made Nina feel like her daughter would be snatched from her, and Valentin would let her down. Valentin asks what he can do to reassure her, but she says he did already. She’s also spending two weeks in Paris with Sasha. He asks, what about Charlotte; Nina is her champion. She asks if Valentin doesn’t want her to go. He does, but he and Charlotte need her.

On the docks, Obrecht asks Franco if it’s wise to be out alone with a serial killer on the loose. He says the last time they were there, she knocked him out. She says he had kind words about their friendship because he was trying to prevent her from killing Peter. He says, that didn’t make it less sincere. She says it’s good to see him, and he asks how she beat the charges. She says, it helps know other people’s secrets.

Not-Doc sees his office door open. Carly is there, and he says it’s late for therapy, but she’s not there for therapy. He’d said the Ferncliff patient’s name was Wilson Ritter. If he’s a sociopath or serial killer, why is there no mention of him anywhere. Is he trying hide something about Wilson or Ferncliff? Not-Doc says maybe she couldn’t find it because someone else decided not glorify him. It would be refreshing not to reward him with fame. Carly asks if he did that.

Ava sees Sonny, and asks to discuss something important about Avery. She needs to leave town. There are too many memories of Kiki. He says she can leave, but that doesn’t mean she gets extra time. She says she’s not being clear. She’d like to relocate to another country, but Sonny would have to let her have Avery for extended periods. He asks, how extended? and she says, weeks; maybe a month. People who share customers do it all the time. It’s common and it work. They’ve been working well lately, and she asks if he would consider it.

Sam asks Kristina to consider the possibility that Shiloh is as much of a con as she was. Kristina says they’re like reactionaries, who protest art and movies before they’ve even seen them. Shiloh is trying to affect change and growth in the individual. You can change the world when you change yourself. She asks if Sam and Alexis would come to a seminar that might reevaluate their attitude toward him. She looks at a list, and says, loving without judgment. Jason comes in, and she says, perfect timing. She saw a seminar for him and Sam; handling personal relationships. They should check it out. If they want what’s best for her, explore what she’s discovering. Until then, she doesn’t have much to say. She thanks Alexis and leaves.

Alexis says, some of what Kristina said made sense, and truthfully, it’s the calmest discussion they’ve ever had. It’s a little woo-woo, but it doesn’t seem be doing any harm. She’ll check it out if Sam is game. Sam is. Attending a seminar is a good way to let Shiloh know they’re watching him.

Valentin suggests to Nina that they go to Paris during Charlotte’s summer break. She says they can go as a family, and he says it will be great.

Obrecht asks why Franco is brooding out there. Franco says someone bailed on him, and he’s figuring out his next move. She asks who betrayed him, and he says someone who knew all his secrets, but he doesn’t want to see anyone else tied to a bed. She says, secrets can be destructive in the wrong hands. He asks what secrets she’s keeping, and she says ones that affect important people.

Not-Doc suggests Carly stop focusing on Ritter and Ferncliff, and focus on what’s important – her family. She asks if he’s saying she’s neglecting them, and he says she’s pouring out a pattern of obsession. She was so obsessed and out of control, her family believed she pushed Nelle down the stairs. Don’t let her hate and fixation drive her to a frenzy. She says, this isn’t the same thing, but he says she’s waiting for him in the middle of the night to tell him that he’s lying. Stop thinking about the pitiful patient, and focus on her kids; Josslyn, Michael, and little Avery. She tells him, nice try, but she’ll get to the bottom of this. She leaves, and he takes out the box. His list is in it, and he writes Carly on the bottom.

Sonny asks Ava, how far away, but she’s not sure yet. She tells him, Europe. He says Avery can stay there and she can visit, but Ava says he can’t understand how different it is there without Kiki. He says he understands. He misses Morgan and Kiki. He’s not adding Avery to the list of those he’s loved and lost. He walks away, and she calls not-Doc. She tells him Sonny was hateful. He said no just like she said he would. He wouldn’t even consider it, and threw Morgan in her face. He’ll never let her leave.

Not-Doc adds Sonny to his list.

Tomorrow, Finn asks how Chase got into this, Josslyn asks Cameron why he’s on probation, and Franco asks Aiden how long he’s liked baking.

Vanderpump Rules

The remains of the party are strewn about, although Kristen cleaned up most of it. Schwartz is under the table, supposedly looking for his contact. Katie tells Brittany that Stassi almost made it through the party without freaking out. Kristen says, it was going great. Katie says, things were winding down, and Beau just wanted to kick it with them. She doesn’t understand the problem. Stassi called him fifteen times, then came out and screamed at him. She ordered him into the bedroom, and he was crying, saying he wasn’t her punching bag. Kristen says, that’s how Stassi spent the remainder of her birthday night.

Stassi is sitting outside, when Beau comes out with coffee. She’s sorry. Beau says she d*ck-punched his heart. Whatever that means. Stassi doesn’t want be mean. He says he tried to leave, and she lost it. She says that sets her off; it’s terrifying when he walks away. He says they had nothing to accomplish with the argument, and he walked away for his own sanity, and she freaked out. He says she has to figure out what makes her turn on him. She doesn’t know; that’s what scares her. She’s concerned he’s going to leave her because of how she acts. In her interview, Stassi says she won’t find someone like him again. She has to be careful not to screw it up. He asks how they can change It, but she doesn’t know. She cries, and he holds her. In Beau’s interview, he says he looks at every fight like a learning experience. Stassi calls herself an erect d*ck. Okay… Beau says he’s not walking away. They’ll work it out. He’s in love with her.

Meanwhile James goes to the ice cream place and hunts down his friend Arthur. Arthur used to be the PUMP manager when James worked there. He’s gone to him when his life wasn’t going the way he needs it to go. We flash back Arthur asking James what it told him when he got fired, and James saying, don’t drink. Arthur asks how not drinking worked for James. James says it worked, but after a while he fell back to his James ways. He wants Lisa to see a difference, and to see a difference himself. Arthur says they’ve had this conversation before, and he’ll believe it when he sees it. He’s a big believer in mantras. He asks for three words that James would use to describe being sober. James says, honest, caring, and driven. Arthur says, an honest, caring, driven man wouldn’t take a drink, knowing what will happen. James says he wants to be honest and caring to those he loves, and driven in his own accomplishments.

Lisa has a staff meeting. She wants everyone’s opinion on the James fiasco. When there’s a shake-up, she likes to bring everyone together. It’s important to let them know she’s listening. James’s behavior is unacceptable, and she’s keeping the lines of communication open. Peter talks about how everyone is doing a great job, and he’s glad to see Jax is back. Tom wonders about possible employees for TomTom. Maybe some people want to pick up a couple of shifts when they open. Lisa says he’s thinking like a businessman. She tells them, James has been let go. Peter knows he acted out during Pride, but says Tuesday nights are one of their best nights. In his interview, Jax says, James is okay, but he’s not Skrillex. He can find someone with an accent and iPod who could do the job without insulting his fiancé and calling Katie fat. The manager, whose name I never remember, says, from a business point of view… She shrugs, and Brittany says she doesn’t appreciate only looking at it that way. She’s not thinking of their feelings. Lisa is like, hey, but Brittany says she’s never been disrespectful. She’s mortified, and it’s hard not to get emotional. Lala suggests not working Tuesdays and Thursdays. Scheana says the tips have tripled because of James. She’s not defending him; just trying to see both sides. Jax doesn’t give a sh*t. Lisa says he can roll his eyes, but he’s lucky to be there as well. He doesn’t have to be. He says he’ll just be quiet, but she says she can see his attitude and body language. She heaves a huge sigh. Billie says Kristen is a trigger, and Katie tells her not to blame James’s issues on Kristen. Lala says it doesn’t give him the right to call her fat and call Lala a whore. In her interview, Lala says no one holds James accountable. His girlfriend is a yes man, and so are his friends. He’s surrounded by people who let him slide, and it’s a recipe for disaster. She thinks Lisa shouldn’t employ James. Lisa says she doesn’t support talking badly about each other or fat shaming. Aren’t they more evolved than that? James isn’t working there, and she doesn’t support how he spoke or rapped. In her interview, Lisa says it would be easy to give James his job back, but how women are treated is of paramount importance. If James isn’t echoing sentiment, how can he work for her?

At her apartment, Stassi asks Beau if she looks literary chic. She’s wearing a dark, fitted sweater with a white shirt color peeking out. He tells her she looks like Stephen King’s daughter; she just needs a knife and some blood. She’s going to be SKYPE-ing with her editor, Natasha. In her interview, she tells us she got a book deal for Next Level Basic. It’s about embracing your basic bitch; it’s like a manifesto. Natasha says she’ll keep in touch to get a sense of how the writing is going. She’s thinking September 1st is a good time for the book to come out. Stassi says she’ll make it happen. When the call ends, she hyperventilates, and tells Beau she’s sweating. She says she has so much else to do. Kristen’s mom is in town, and she’s having a mom/girls night. Katie and Stassi’s mom are best friends. They love to drink wine and gossip. They’re basically older versions of Katie and Stassi. Stassi says her mom doesn’t care how she acts or makes uncomfortable. She wonders if that’s her future. Beau says it’s his future. Great.

Giggy! Lisa and Ken sit outside at SUR, and Lisa wonders what they’re waiting for. She tells Ken that they’re having a party on the 11th at TomTom. It’s not technically an opening, but Daily Mail TV has asked if they’d host their annual party host. They’re not ready, but they’ve committed to it. The invitations have gone out. In his interview, Tom says that Pandora has taken over the cocktail menu, but nothing has been finalized. Lisa asked them to come up with three cocktails to possibly serve at the party, and there’s still a chance they could go on the menu. Lisa and Ken taste various cocktails, and Lisa gives advice on a few. In Schwartz’s interview, he says they have twenty-five to thirty cocktails that they love, and they want to deliver. Lisa thinks one looks too healthy, and Tom says it has matcha tea in it. Apparently, it tastes better than it looks. She likes it. The last one has hibiscus in it. I’ve never tasted that, and flower-flavored anything always seems weird to me, but Lisa loves that one, saying, it’s off the hook. She tells them, good job; they surprised her. In her interview, Lisa says she’s not a mixologist, but some of them were damn good.

She says the next step is the part she adores, apart from making the food; making it look beautiful. And she the perfect person to do it with – Nick Alain. We flash back to her meeting with him in Las Vegas. She says he’s strict, and wants no one but them in there. His first exposure to the Toms was after they’d been drinking for three days in Vegas. We flash back to that. She says after the installation, she’ll bring them in for the reveal. It’s not finished, but they’ll get the idea. She asks if they can carry her out.

Katie, Brittany, and Stassi go to Rage Ground, an establishment where Stassi says, you get to break sh*t, and there are no consequences. She’s going to be living out her fantasy. They’re outfitted in hazmat type suits and helmets with masks. They go into a room with all kinds of stuff to break, like bottles and printers. I think about how I’d like to smash my printer. Stassi says she’s getting all the rage out of her system, from the boyfriends who have cheated on her to not enough sides of ranch being delivered with the pizza. She breaks things because she was an angry drunk on her birthday. Afterward, she says, it’s better than sex. They feel lighter, and everyone is in a good mood. Stassi wonders if Jax was on Brittany’s mind. Katie says it’s something she wanted to talk about. It got bad, then they got back together, and when his dad passed away, they swept everything under the rug. Brittany hates that people are saying it’s only because Jax is playing the dad card. Stassi says getting over betrayal takes a long time, and Brittany says she’s still working on it. In Brittany’s interview, she says she wants people to believe in their relationship. Stassi says Jax seems to be listening to Brittany now. Katie asks if they’ve seen the live post from Scheana’s date; she’s with Robby from The Bachelorette. Stassi says Scheana loves The Bachelor people.

Scheana tells us that Robby is a former Bachelorette contestant during JoJo’s season, whatever that means to you. She met him at SUR when he was there with Adam. They roomed together at college. She says he’s supportive, reliable, gorgeous, and those absyes please. He makes her feel special. They go down that clear slide on the side of LA’s tallest building. If things keep going well, she sees herself falling for him. Stassi says Adam is a cheesy douche. Katie says he and Robby were roommates, and she amends that to the cheesiest group of dudes ever. In Scheana’s interview, she says Adam is gorgeous, but friendship was the only option, since he won’t give in. Stassi says Scheana is dating best friends, and not having sex with either one. Back at Scheana’s date, she tells Robby he’s not her type; he’s too perfect. They kiss, and he says, still not her type? She says, nope. They kiss some more. In her interview, she says he’s showing interest, and she thinks he’s there for the right reasons, because she forgot what show she’s on. Stassi says Scheana is living her real life Bachelorette.

Lisa says Nick has put everything together in his factory, and he’s bringing it to TomTom. She’s excited. She tells Nick they need so much muscle, maybe they should have the Toms help. That’s a hard no. Nick thinks they’ll be too excited, and they have too much to do. In Lisa’s interview, she says Nick needs to focus without distractions, and those distractions include Tom and Tom. In his interview, Schwartz says she told them explicitly don’t come, but he thinks it’s a test. He tells Tom, it’s a tease. They’re one hundred and fifty feet away. He has professional blue balls. They walk toward the restaurant, but Lisa intervenes, saying they need to have respect for Nick, and give him space. In her interview, Lisa knows they’re excited, but she want it to be a surprise, like taking the blindfold off. She tells the workers they’re on a deadline. Tom suggests they celebrate at Kristen’s T-shirt party. Schwartz thinks they should lurk, but Tom says, no.

Kristen is having the relaunch of her james.mae line. She’s invited friends, family, and media outlets, hoping to get the buzz going. She tried the launch before, but it didn’t work out. Scheana squeaks when she sees Kristen’s mom. Katie says, in additions to Kristen’s mom being in town, her mom and Stassi’s mom are in town. Sh*t’s about to get weird.

Lala talks to Ariana about having a conversation with James. She feels she owes it to the friendship they used to have. Her dad never held a grudge, and she needs to take on her dad’s heart, sit him down, and be caring and feeling. She needs to do it for her dad. She unblocks James, and calls him. He asks why she’s calling, and she says because she’s a human with a beating heart. She thought she’d reach out, and asks if he has time to chat tomorrow. He asks what she’s trying to get out of this. He doesn’t trust her. Which confuses me since it should be the other way around. She wants talk in person. She says they don’t have to be friends, but human beings who care for other human beings. He says he’ll see her tomorrow. She tells Ariana that she’s not wearing lashes tomorrow. I don’t know if this is because she might cry, or James just isn’t worth her putting them on.

Brittany tells Jax about getting out the anger. She says they were talking afterward, and Katie wanted to make sure they were working on their relationship. She hopes they don’t get almost to the wedding, and end up having the same problem she and Schwartz did. In his interview, Jax says Katie calling Brittany out is like throwing stones in a glass house. He says they don’t know what happens behind closed doors. He has to remember that when he’s talking about James. Brittany hates Lisa being disappointed in her. She’s never chiming in again. Jax says she has to stand up for herself. That’s one reason why he’s her fiancé. She says she loves him.

Ariana understands why Lisa is keeping the Toms away, but the whole thing was that they needed to listen and learn. How can they do that when they’re not allowed to be there? Tom tells her that Lisa loved the cocktails. Schwartz says that the Daily Mail asked James to DJ. We see a clip of Lisa saying she promised Katie that she and James wouldn’t cross paths, and Tom saying Katie doesn’t have to, but Schwarz says she’s his plus one for life. Aww! Schwartz tells Katie that James will be in the booth the whole time.

Stassi’s mom, Dayna, talks to Beau, saying he was brave at party. She left when the meltdown started. She doesn’t want him to go anywhere. She thinks he’s perfect for her daughter. Her clock is ticking, and she needs grandchildren. Beau tells Stassi they’re talking about babies. Dayna doesn’t want Stassi to be herself and mess it up. She hopes Beau is strong enough to go the distance. In her interview, Stassi wonders why her mom is giving her relationship advice. She’s never seen her have a healthy one. Dayna says Beau is way above Stassi, and Stassi wonders what parent says that? Dayna tells Beau that Stassi hasn’t frozen her eggs yet. I suddenly realize that I have the exact same sweatshirt Beau is wearing. I’m not saying a dude can’t wear a sweatshirt that has flowers on it, but I have the exact same one. Dayna is concerned that Beau hasn’t seen Stassi at her worst. Stassi says he’s seen the worst part, and Dayna asks if she’s sure.

James meets Lala. She borrowed daddy’s Rolls for the day, and likes it. She thinks she needs one. James says she unblocked him. He doesn’t know where to start, and she tells him, look in her eyes. They need to put everything aside, and get to the bottom of this. Why does he thinks he needs to attack at such a vicious level? He says, the alcohol, she says she’s the same way, but at some point, they have to realize they’re too old for that. They can’t be attacking people’s girlfriends or boyfriends, and calling them fat and a whore. He says he doesn’t remember everything. He knows that’s no excuse. He’s been helping his mom financially, and putting his brother through school. He misses their friendship. In his interview, James says he doesn’t know what’s close, and now they’re not, and it’s hitting him. He can’t clean the slate overnight. He asks if he can have time. He needs to fix himself first before he can fix anything else. He says she surprised him, and thanks her. She says they’ll all be okay. They talk music, and James asks if she wants to get in the studio again. She does.

Going into the restaurant, Dayna says she hopes her daughter grows up to be half the woman Kristen is. What? Is she drunk already? They go in to dinner, and Kristen’s mom, Faye, toasts to her. They toast to hot moms and hot daughters. Kristen checks her receipts, and says she made $9018 from the launch. She wondered what Dayna and Beau were talking about. Dayna says she stalked Beau like a hamster in Habitrail. Stassi doesn’t know what a Habitrail is, and I wonder if I should feel old. Dayna says she prays Stassi doesn’t take old baggage into new relationships. Stassi is getting annoyed. This is like last night, when Beau suggested Stassi’s issues come from old boyfriends, but Dayna said she’s always been like this. Her mother is always contradicting herself; she’d just said it was because of old boyfriends. Dayna tells Stassi that she’s going through menopause, and never cries, but Stassi says she’s always cried. This woman hasn’t even been on the scene that long, and I can tell she’s a crier. Kristen says Stassi is stuck in her bitchy place, and she hates that. Stassi says she’s putting her hands up, and Dayna says she needs help breathing. Kristen whines that no one babies her, and says Stassi is in a bad mood. Katie says Kristen is the one who started it, and Dayna suggests they all stop thinking about themselves, and think about how they’re all together. Stassi says she has to feel her feelings, and Dayna asks if she can feel them later. I laugh, partly because I can’t believe Stassi has had to deal with this woman her whole life. Stassi says, no, she can’t, and Dayna stomps off. Faye and Teri follow her. She starts bawling in the hallway, wailing that she feels like an outsider. Katie suggests that Stassi find a way to make her mom feel special. Dayna says she needs be held, and told she’s loved. Stassi says she loves her mom. In her interview, Katie says, the situation feels familiar. We flash back to Stassi pitching one of her many fits.

In Stassi’s interview, she says it feels like she’s watching her past and future worlds colliding. She has freak-outs like her mom, and sometimes has the victim mentality. Everything about tonight sucks. It all sucks. And she’s scared one day that will be her.

Next time, Tom plays the trumpet badly, Lisa tells Brittany to show respect, Brittany freaks out, and Billie gripes about not being included.

😠 I have a few things to say about Stassi’s mom. I like Stassi. She seems like the kind of friend I would have had at her age. She can be dramatic, but she’s mad smart, and has a wicked sense of humor. The former is why I’m surprised she hasn’t seen it herself. Her mom is where she gets it. This woman is toxic. I’m not saying she’s a bad person, although I think she should stay away from the alcohol, weed, or whatever the hell she’s doing. It doesn’t suit her. And she is a bad parent in several ways. She wanted Stassi to do her job – hold her and tell her that she loved her. I’m not saying that should never be done by a child, but Stassi had just ruined her own birthday – and owned up to it. She’s the one who deserved a pat on the head, not her inappropriate mother. I also have the feeling this has been going on her whole life. On top of it, in every single scene, Dayna belittled her own child. While I’ll be the first to admit there’s the magic of editing, none of it should have happened. She embarrassed Stassi at the party, by talking about Beau’s package, and intimated that Stassi had better not screw it up. Then when they were at Kristen’s launch, she wouldn’t shut up about how Stassi wasn’t good enough for Beau, had a screwed up personality, and she hoped he understood he was in for a lifetime of a nightmare. Putting the cherry on that cake, she told Beau her clock was ticking. She’s definitely an attention seeker – look out when she talks with her hands, which is always – and managed to make everything about her in some way. Which brings us to the dinner. Wow. Talk about a drama queen. The other two moms should have left her to cry it out by herself. I guarantee she wouldn’t have been gone long. I’m appalled that Kristen is encouraging her behavior, just because Dayna is being complimentary, and suggesting that Stassi isn’t as good as Kristen. Again putting Stassi down. Why isn’t Kristen standing up for her friend? I’m surprised Beau doesn’t see it either, since he’s no slouch in the brains department. I hope Stassi doesn’t lose him, but regardless, keep going to therapy, girlfriend. You’ll figure it out sooner or later, and decide what to do about it. Keep doing you, but try not to drink so much on your next birthday.

🐹 It’s Still Around…

The original style Habitrail.

habitrail2

The Habitrail of Today. Scaled back and not too exciting.

habitrail3

Now, that’s a Habitrail.

habitrail

🎢 The Slide…

And some of LA.

 

January 11, 2019 – Griff’s Faith is Broken, Some Betty, Vicki’s Holiday, a Baby, OctoQuotes, a Birthday & a Weekend

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

 

General Hospital

Yep, missed it. Why break a streak?

Anna can’t see anything. Peter helps her up, and out of the bistro.

At the hospital, Obrecht says good evening to Finn. He says they used to have security; who let her in? She says, all the charges have been dropped. She’s free to go where she chooses, and she chooses to be there. He asks what she wants, and she says she’s there to speak to HR. He asks if her license wasn’t revoked, and she says she didn’t realize he had control over who was hired. He says there’s no place for someone like her there.

Valentin gives Nina a gorgeous bouquet. She says the flowers are beautiful, but unnecessary. He wants to thank her for giving him a second chance. She says, seriously? It’s more like the ninth. He’s grateful, and says he’d be happy if she indulges him while he showers her with gifts. She says he already gave her the greatest gift. He brought her daughter back into her life.

In the chapel, Sonny tells Griff it’s been a tough few weeks. It was a senseless tragedy. Kiki was part of the family. Griff wants to stop him now. He’s heard so many different versions of the same conversation. He knows they’re well-intended, but it doesn’t help. He tells Sonny, please save his sorrow and remorse. The stories only make him mad. Mad that somebody took Kiki’s life, and took her from them. Maybe he doesn’t have the right to anger and grief, but those are his only two options. Sonny says Griff can only feel how he feels; empty and pointless. He gets it. When Morgan died, Sonny went to dark places, and Griff helped him with his faith. Griff is glad his words brought Sonny comfort, but for him, there is none. His words were a lie. Faith is an illusion.

Franco asks Ava what she’s doing out there alone at night. It’s a bad idea. Ava says she can take care of herself. He’s sure she can, but he’s hanging out, just in case. She says, that’s sweet, but unnecessary. She asks what he’s doing there, and he says he’s on his way to the studio. What about her? She says it’s none of his business; carry on. He says now he’s really not going. Not until she tells him what’s going on. She says he’s going to ruin everything, and he tells her, talk fast. She says, Kiki’s killer is still out there. She’s making herself a target he can’t resist, and when he finds her, he’ll wish the cops got to him first.

Not-Doc takes out a locked box. He looks inside, and smiles, seeing the driver’s licenses of his victims. He says, sleep tight, and puts the box back. If he had a moustache, he’d be twirling it.

Nina tells Valentin that she didn’t think it was possible. If not for him, Madeline would have carried the secret to her grave. Because of him, she found out her daughter was alive, and came to know this incredible, smart, beautiful woman. He filled the hole in her heart. She loves him so much. He showed her it’s safe to love him, and made her trust him again.

Obrecht says Finn is quick to judge, but her moral actions don’t concern him. He says, they concern Monica. When Monica sees her, she’ll remember the things Obrecht did to the people in the hospital. What goes around, comes around. Obrecht says, upon further consideration, she’s too good for GH. She’s going to Mercy, where they can use her help and appreciate her talents.

Drew brings Kim coffee, and I wonder if they’ll ever actually put something in those cups or at least pretend better. Kim says she’s being ridiculous and selfish, but Drew tells her to give herself a break. She tells him, bringing life into the world is the best part of her job, and one of the reasons she became an OB. When she hands a precious new life to parents, and sees the wonder, the hopes and dreams they have for their babies, their joy fills her with joy. But today, all she felt was resentment toward the new mother and all her hope for her son’s future. She has none left for hers. Drew says it’s understandable, but remember, they still have time. Kim says she’s clung to hope for so long; false hope, and she’s running out of it. The first thing they learn in med school is that they will lose patients, even with new treatments and skills, there are limitations, and they all fail at some point. That’s where Oscar is. Medicine failed him.

Sonny tells Griff that he questioned God. Why did it happen to someone so young and full of promise? His faith was shaken. Griff says his faith isn’t shaken; it’s broken. He devoted his entire life to the church. He looks at a medal he’s wearing, and says, St. Aloysius. He experienced a profound spiritual awakening at age seven, and died at twenty-three from the Plague. Griff wanted be like him since he was a boy. He laughs, says, a saint, and rips the medal off. He says, it’s just jewelry. There’s no magic. Bad things happen to good people. Kiki was stabbed. What sense can he make of that? Why is he here? He doesn’t know. Maybe he’s hoping to feel something that proves he’s wrong; that what he believed isn’t a lie. Sonny says there’s no denying he’s sinned more than most, but he thinks there’s something bigger out there. Something listening to them; working through them. He’s there praying for a sixteen-year-old boy who’s been terminally diagnosed. It might not help, but has to do the best he can. He believes in his heart that Kiki would understand. Griff says people tell him what Kiki would want or do. He doesn’t even know, so how do they? I hate to put a damper on his supposition, but they probably knew her a lot better than he did. He’d just started dating her. He says he dedicated his entire life to healing. If Oscar gets a miracle, it’s because of science, not faith. He’s finally clear on that. He says there’s someone he can still help, and leaves. Sonny looks at the medal on the floor.

Franco says Ava is using herself as bait, and ambushing the killer? She says, it’s better than waiting around for them to claim another victim. Franco says it’s not going to work, but she says he’s just trying to get her to change her mind. He says he can think like Kiki’s killer because he used to think like a killer. She’s not a desirable target. Ava is like, thanks, but he says she’s known to be lethal. At best, she’s not worth the risk, and at worst, she’s a kindred spirit. Not-Doc walks onto the scene.

Peter brings Anna in to the hospital. She tells Finn that she can’t see.

Sonny sees Drew and Kim. He’s sorry to interrupt. Drew asks, what’s up? Sonny says he was there getting medicine for his father, and Carly told him Oscar’s treatment didn’t go as well as it should. Drew says, it didn’t, and Sonny tells Drew that his resources are at Drew’s disposal. He has a jet, and connections. Anything they need.

Not-Doc asks what Ava and Franco are doing. Franco tells him Ava is using herself as bait to catch Kiki’s killer. Not-Doc says, I see. Franco is like, what? and not-Doc says he’s not saying it’s not incredibly risky, but however Ava deals with her grief is her own business. Franco says, she’s wandering around on the docks late at night with a gun. And why is not-Doc ghosting him? Franco has been calling for an appointment, and his calls aren’t being returned. Not-Doc says, the time has come for them to stop working together.

Griff comes into the examining room, and asks Anna, what’s going on? Finn says, she can’t see, and Anna asks if it has something to do with her illness. Griff says that’s doubtful, and asks, what happened? Peter says they were having coffee when Anna got a headache. He was going to take her to the doctor, and she collapsed. When she regained consciousness, she couldn’t see. Griff asks her to describe the headache. She says, it was horrible. It came out of nowhere; a searing pain in her temple. She knew she had to see a doctor. She fainted, and when she stood up and opened her eyes, she couldn’t see anything. Griff says the fainting could be a result of her phlebotomy treatment. She asks, what about the loss of vision? He tells her that he can’t say, but he’ll figure it out. They’ll run some tests, and find out what’s going on. Anna asks why would this happen? and Griff says, hang in there. Finn says he’ll be right back, and Anna asks if Peter is still there. He is, and she thanks him. He says he did what anyone would have done, but she says he’s not anyone to her. She’s not a random stranger; it’s a complicated relationship. He says, that’s one way to put it. She says he could have left, but he didn’t. She thanks him, but says she’s not reading into it. Peter suggests she focus on herself right now. He takes her hand, and she says she’s grateful he’s there. He’s glad he could help.

Valentin kisses Nina’s hand. He wants to prove himself worthy of her love, but he’s not her knight in shining armor. Obrecht walks in, saying, on that, they can agree. She hopes she’s not interrupting. Valentin says she is. She’d like to speak to Nina alone, but Valentin says whatever she has to say, she can say in his presence. She knows he’d prefer that, and Nina asks, what’s going on? She saw them with their heads together the other day. Since they have no secrets, tell her what’s going on. Obrecht says, no secrets? In that case, does he want to tell Nina what they’ve been keeping from her, or should she?

Sonny says he has access to medicine that’s restricted in this country, and his jet is ready. Drew appreciates it, but knows there’s no miracle drug. Kim says she checked everything from here to Singapore, and checked every trial. Drew says there’s nothing they wouldn’t do to save Oscar, but there’s nothing they can do.

Franco asks if not-Doc is dumping him as a client. Not-Doc says their work has plateaued. Maybe Franco has become too comfortable. In any event, they’re not progressing. He’d be better served by another therapist. Franco doesn’t think they’ve dealt with the trauma they uncovered, and now he’s being tossed aside like a bothersome one-night stand. Not-Doc thinks it’s best, and will give him a referral. Franco says the hell with him and his referral, and stomps off. Ava asks not-Doc if he’s sure he wants to do that. It seems like Franco needs him. Not-Doc says, trust him. It’s for the best.

Nina tells Obrecht to cough it up, and Obrecht asks if Valentin told Nina that he offered her a job at Cassadine industries. Valentin says he’s making inquiries; don’t rush him. Obrecht says the medical department isn’t hiring, but she appreciates him keeping her in mind. Nina doesn’t want her put in difficult position, but the sooner she finds work, the better for everyone. Obrecht asks for a private moment with her niece. When Valentin leaves the room, Nina asks what Obrecht can’t tell her in front of him.

A nurse comes with wheelchair to take Anna for her tests. Peter helps her into the chair. He asks if he should stick around, but she says she knows he’s busy, and tells him to go. The nurse wheels her out.

Griff looks at Anna’s chart. Finn needs to talk to him. Griff asks what’s on his mind. Finn says, Griff’s mind. Is he okay? Is his head in the game? He just lost someone close to him, and no disrespect, Finn wonders if he should get another specialist. Griff says, none taken, and Finn is right. Kiki’s murder messed him up, but Anna is the closest thing to family he has, and he can help her. He needs to help her. Finn asks what he thinks is going on, and Griff says, it could be anything. They don’t know if it’s treatable or the blindness is permanent.

Sonny tells Drew he’s sorry. He hopes he’s not making it worse. Kim says they’re touched, and Sonny says, Oscar is one of the greats in his book. They’re both in his prayers. Drew thanks him for coming by. Sonny says he can’t imagine what they’re going through, but Drew says, clearly, he knows. Drew was there when he lost Morgan. He appreciates Sonny being there for them. Sonny says, anything he needs, just ask.

Finn tells Griff that Anna will want to know the odds. Griff says, until he knows what it is, he only has speculation. Finn asks if there’s a strong possibility she’ll see again, and Griff says, yes. There are many causes for sudden blindness. He says Finn is acting like he has no medical degree; he’s not acting like a doctor. Finn says someone he loves is the patient, and Griff’s bedside manner sucks. What happened to holding on to hope? Griff says, get someone else If that’s what he wants. Griff’s faith lies in data. He’ll have it shortly.

Peter meets with Valentin, and says he took Anna to the hospital. Valentin asks, what happened? but Peter doesn’t know. They were talking, Anna got a splitting headache, and fainted. When she regained consciousness, she couldn’t see. Valentin asks, who’s treating her? and Peter says, Griff, but he doesn’t know what caused it or if it’s permanent.

Nina thinks Obrecht wants to pitch her medical column for Crimson. She says it’s a great idea, but not the best approach for their readers. She knows Obrecht needs a job. Obrecht says her records have been expunged, but she has no medical license. And she has more pressing matters. Nina asks if she can vague that up more. Obrecht says Valentin has two sides. He can be witty and charming, but he can also be ruthless and amoral. The ends will always justify the means with him. Nina says no one is completely wrong or right. Valentin is capable of love and loyalty. He showed that with Nina’s daughter. She tried to end it for a long time, but he wouldn’t give up. She’s proceeding with caution. There’s been no long term, permanent commitment. She tells Obrecht she’s moved back into Windymere. Obrecht says she’s sleeping in his bed? Nina wants Obrecht to be happy for her. Valentin found her daughter; her family. She wants Obrecht to meet her. She looks exactly like Britt, and Nathan. Obrecht says that woman is nothing like her son.

Sonny tries to get Griff’s attention, but Griff says he’s sorry. He has a patient. Sonny holds the medal.

Finn asks Anna how the tests went, and she supposes all right. He tells her it’s okay to be scared; he won’t tell. Griff comes in with the test results, and takes her hand. He says she experienced some kind of hemorrhage, but she’s okay and stable. She asks about the blindness, and Griff says, there’s a laser treatment that often yields positive results. She asks what that means. He says he doesn’t know the cause, so he can’t be certain it will restore her vision.

Valentin thanks Peter, who tells him, don’t reach out. He doubts Anna wants to hear from him. Valentin says, she doesn’t like appear weak, and Peter says, because she thinks Valentin will double-cross her. He knows the feeling. Valentin says he’s not the enemy, but Peter says he’ll use anyone to get what he wants. He used Peter, pressuring him to drop the charges on Obrecht. Valentin says it worked out well for everyone, and Peter is in good with Maxie. Peter says Valentin was just covering his own ass. Enjoy it while it lasts. Obrecht will use whatever she has against him, sooner rather than later.

Nina asks what Obrecht has against Sasha. Obrecht says forget she said anything. Nina says she understands. She thinks Obrecht still has a lot of guilt, leaving Nathan with Madeline, and her relationship with Britt is non-existent. It’s different between Nina and her daughter. Obrecht says she’s mistaken. There’s something she needs to know about her daughter.

Franco argues with not-Doc’s assistant outside of his office. She says he can’t have access to the doctor’s records. He asks where Janet is, and the woman says Janet was fired, and the doctor hired her. She leaves, and Franco says, the hell with this. He uses his credit card to slip the lock on the door.

At the docks, Ava asks if not-Doc thinks she’s crazy, going after her daughter’s killer. He says, not at all, but he thinks it’s counterproductive. The killer feeds off the fear and dread of the community. He loves attention and notoriety. Her grief and frustration give him power. If she refuses to live her life, she plays into his hands. She says her daughter was killed. How is she supposed to focus on anything else? He thinks her staying there, surrounded by memories, knowing the killer is out there, wears on her. The two of them should leave town. She says she’s not in the mood for a vacation, but he says, not a vacation. Forever. He thinks they should leave Port Charles for good.

Franco spreads out Doc’s patient files, and flips through them. We see the locked box.

On Monday, Alexis asks Sam what’s going on in that house she should know about, Jason asks if Kristina has ever mentioned Shiloh, and Carly catches Franco in Doc’s office.

💘 Because We All Love Her…

Presenting Betty White.

https://parade.com/451087/jerylbrunner/15-quotes-that-make-us-love-betty-white/

✈ It Could Have Been Worse…

Rich people problems.

https://radaronline.com/exclusives/2018/12/vicki-gunvalson-reveals-holiday-from-hell-airport-delay/?utm_source=email&em_hash=72048a93bc8188334dc1071a32fe8f3b

👶 What Will Juan Do Now?

Pao and Russ finally had a baby. Bye, Felicia Juan.

http://extratv.com/2019/01/03/reality-star-paola-mayfield-welcomed-baby-boy-just-after-midnight-on-new-years-day/?adid=extra_eme_26859_2019-01-05_rightnow1

👂 Quotes of the Week

Silence is the mother of truth. – Benjamin Disraeli

Best friends live forever in the memories we keep. – Unknown

Life, a good life, a great life is about “Why not?” May we never forget it.Danielle Steel, Happy Birthday

You have a wheelhouse and we’ve been living in this dump? – Max (Kat Dennings), 2 Broke Girls

Everything born has to die, in order to make room for the future.Joan D. Vinge

If I were to put a picture in the dictionary next to boy toy, you would be the antonym.Judge Judy, who then had to explain what an antonym is.

I don’t make jokes. I just watch the government and report the facts.Will Rogers

Tequila is not even a drink; it’s a way for having the cops around without using a phone. – Dylan Moran

🎆 A Happy 12th Birthday to Juliet’s Six-Pack…

Twelve years ago, in the wee hours of the morning – 2:30 am to be exact – Juliet produced her life’s work – six glorious babies! True to form, she did it her own way, without skipping a meal or even going into labor. She did not read the schedule. She popped them out, cleaned them up, and then asked for a piece of cheese.

juliet'sbabies-sleeping-3 (2)

birthdaygoddanced2

🛀 Because It Came…

January 10, 2019 – The PC Voters Have Spoken, a Crossover in LA, Oh Brother & Celebrating Earl

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What I Watched Today

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

 

General Hospital

I swear, one day I won’t miss the first minute and a half. I had extra time today too, but… oh, never mind. Moving on.

Anna asks if Finn is backing out. He says he never backed in. He tells her, technically, she can go on her own. Not-Doc nearly slams into them, and Finn tells him watch where he’s going.

Sam doesn’t know how Jason can still go to the docks. He says there are bad memories for both of them there, but she suggests they make new ones. Shiloh appears, and says it’s fortunate he found them. Perhaps they can help him with something. He sounds like Spinelli.

Shiloh takes Sam and Jason over to a guy sleeping on the docks. He introduces the guy as Barney. He’s between homes, and Shiloh is trying to convince him that he’ll freeze out there. He has a van to take Barney and his mother to a shelter, but Barney doesn’t think he can trust Shiloh. Sam tells Barney, it’s just one night. He can leave if he wants to. Shiloh agrees that he can. Sam says, give it a try. A hot meal and a bed. Let them help him out.

Not-Doc tells Finn and Anna that he’s terribly sorry. It’s embarrassing. He’s always complaining about other people walking while their looking at their cell phones, and now he’s doing the same thing. Anna asks if he’s in a rush to get to a patient, but he says it’s a baffling pathology that’s stumping the experts. He jets, and Finn says, people say he’s awkward.

Maxie asks Peter how he knew she was there. He says he didn’t, and Lulu says the whole world doesn’t revolve around Maxie. Peter says he’s there on Invader business. Maxie asks if he’s going to make Lulu work tonight. Her mom waiting for them to join her. Lulu says she asked to see him; right now, this takes precedence. Maxie says she’ll leave them to talk shop, while she watches the returns. Lulu tells her it’s confidential, and she’ll meet Maxie at The Floating Rib when they’re done. Maxie says Peter should consider coming. All work no play… He says he’ll try, and Lulu says she’ll be there soon. When Maxie leaves, Lulu says she senses a vibe. Peter says they’re supposed to be talking business. Lulu says she’s talking murder.

Ned says Michael wants him to win so he has no reason to come back to ELQ. Michael says he wants Ned to win because he’s a great mayor, but he’s always welcome back to the family business. Monica says they’re all getting along and being supportive of each other. Is she in the right house? She says, solidarity is a good thing, especially with everything going on with Oscar. She had no idea how hard losing Gail would hit her either. She wishes Michael had the chance to meet her. There’s also the mysterious clause in her will. Ned says they’ll deal with that another time, and Monica says, tonight is all about him. No pressure, but they could use a win. Michael tells Ned, please get on that, thanks. Ned says, unfortunately, it’s out of his hands.

Laura is blown away by Cameron being busted for buying marijuana. Alexis says, trying to buy marijuana. Elizabeth says, it was sweet, but misguided. Laura wishes they’d told her; she would have been at the hearing. Elizabeth says that’s why they didn’t tell her. Alexis says a lot of people are counting on her. Laura says, family comes first. Always has; always will. She sees not-Doc come in.

Shiloh thanks Sam and Jason, saying they were more persuasive than he was. It’s amazing how many don’t see people like Barney. They’re treated like a disease. He says they’re here to see him; what can he do for them? Sam says Kristina told her that he comes there sometimes to help the homeless. He asks again what he can do for them, and Sam says he can start by dropping the act. Jason says he knew Sam lived there when he came to town. Why didn’t he tell Kristina? Shiloh asks, what makes them think he knew Sam? Sam says she was married to his father.

Mac says what he’s about to tell not-Doc stays between them. It’s about the murders; can Mac trust him? Not-Doc says he’s working with the PCPD. If they can trust him, Mac can. Is he working with the police? Mac says Jordan and Curtis came to him with a possible link between Ryan’s crime spree and the recent killings. Not-Doc asks if he’s serious, and Mac says, dead serious; no pun intended. They’d been going through the files, and Ryan kept a trophy from each of the victims – their driver’s license. The current killer is doing the same thing. All three licenses are missing from the victims’ personal effects. Not-Doc says, incredible, and Mac says, it begs the question, if the killer knows Ryan’s M.O., why does no one else? Not even the cops.

Lulu tells Peter that he gave her access just for something that happened twenty-five years ago. Fast-forward to her covering the recent murders. It didn’t occur to her that they were connected until the DA dropped by. Margaux wouldn’t tell her what they found, but it’s obvious they stumbled on a link. They have reason to believe the killer might be emulating Ryan’s crimes. Peter asks why the DA would come to her, and Lulu says she wanted to know if there was a common denominator – a signature on Ryan’s crimes – but Lulu hadn’t seen one. Peter doesn’t suppose Margaux let her in on what they found. Lulu says she tried to get it out of her, but no luck. She bets if she goes back to her research and the forensics reports, she can find something. Peter asks if she hasn’t already done that, but she says she didn’t know they were looking for a link. If they can find it, she can. Peter asks what she’ll do with it if she finds it, and she says, print it. The public deserves to know. Peter says, if the police haven’t revealed it, it’s for a reason. They’re using it to catch the killer, and she could blow that up. Don’t publish irresponsibly. She says, like she did before? and he says, like they did. He pushed her, and it got Nathan killed. It wasn’t their intention, but they put it out there. It was an unforeseen consequence, and he doesn’t want to risk it again. When she writes something, as publisher, he’ll decide if they go through with the story. She says, deal. She’s going to close up and go to The Floating Rib. She asks if he’s coming, but he says he has a stop he needs to make first.

Finn tells Anna, if you don’t vote, you can’t complain, but she says, but he does anyway. She tells him, Peter wants to meet her right now at a bistro. Finn tells her to go to her meeting, and he’ll check on some files. She says, no, no, no. A supportive boyfriend would go to the party with her. He asks what the supportive boyfriend gets out of this? She asks if he remembers that night, and what happened after. He says it’s seared in his brain. He’ll see her there. Must have been good.

Shiloh says, Sam and his father? Sam says before Hank, he was born David Henry Archer. She married his father briefly. She knew he had a son, but never met him. He was overseas, spending his trust fund. She says it’s not a time in her life that she’s proud of. Shiloh says his father was never married to a Sam, and Sam says, like him, she had aliases. Shiloh thinks it’s amazing that they connected in their own way. Sam says he shows up where she lives, and happens to get her sister to volunteer, and somehow he thinks it’s a coincidence? He says, not coincidence; it’s fate.

Sam asks if Shiloh thinks it’s divine intervention, and he asks what she would call it. She says, a scam. He says he wishes she’d known the person he used to be. Then maybe she’d understand. After his parents divorced, he bounced from boarding school to boarding school. By the time his father met her, he was an adult, and burning through his trust fund. Afterwards, he found himself alone and broke, both financially and in spirit. He couldn’t go further down. Financially, there was probably nothing left for him. Sam says, because of her. Shiloh says if she’s asking if he blamed, or even hated her, he did.

Maxie arrives at The Floating Rib. Elizabeth tells her that they’re waiting on the west side report, and Laura is cool as a cucumber. Maxie says, she’s incredible, and Elizabeth says she’s their next mayor. Alexis is glad to see Finn. He’s glad to see her too, and she asks, how’s life? He says, good, and she asks, how’s Anna? He says, good; how about her? She says she’s doing okay. She’s trying to figure herself out, and discovering friendships mean a lot; FYI, his included. He says nothing makes him happier; FYI.

Laura says, it’s about to happen. Everyone gathers around the TV.

Peter thanks Anna for meeting him on short notice. They make awkward small talk, which seems to be the theme of the day. Anna is glad he was able to come on Christmas. He says him too. He wants ask about her Christmas gift; the WSB file. He gets the woman he never knew, and wondered about every day, but the portrait is incomplete. He needs her to finish it.

Mac tells not-Doc that Ryan was in isolation, and never with anyone. Not-Doc says he remembers… hearing about it. When they were kids, his brother always went his own way. He was the ultimate secret keeper. Mac says, he’s a shrink. Why the driver’s license? Not-Doc says, it contains the essentials of our existence. It represents the lives he took, and was a reminder that he was a step ahead of the authorities; a pat on the back. Mac says he’ll never understand it, and not-Doc says, him neither. Lulu calls Mac over.

The voters have spoken, and they’re able to declare a winner. The next mayor of Port Charles is Laura Collins. Everyone applauds. Laura is stunned, but Lulu isn’t. Everyone hugs Laura. Not-Doc hangs in the background, and raises his beer to her.

Monica says she couldn’t be prouder of Ned, and the rest agree. Michael says, it was crazy close; Ned can ask for a recount. Ned says, the voters have spoken, and if he has to concede, Laura is his first choice. Olivia says she loves him. Monica says, in his short time in office, he did a lot. He rebuilt homes and got people jobs. Olivia says he touched people’s lives; she’s grateful. Ned says he’s grateful for her. She was a spectacular First Lady. She worked her tail off in a thankless gig. He’s sorry he let her down; she’s out of a job. She says, for one, there’s the MetroCourt, and second, she doesn’t care. She loved being his lady, and them doing it together. There are a million other ways they can accomplish that. They hug.

Jason says Sam didn’t mess up Shiloh’s life, he did. Shiloh says he accepted it. Hitting rock bottom is the ultimate reality check. There’s no one to make excuses or clean up the mess. He looked in the mirror, and put the blame where it belonged. He found work; easy money in often unsavory ways. He and Sam aren’t so different. He wound up in Afghanistan, where Drew pulled him out. He didn’t just save Shiloh’s life, but gave his life meaning. That’s when he started on the journey that brought him there. Sam says, it’s inspiring, but Shiloh says she doesn’t sound convinced. She says it has her wondering if digging in her past, and using her alias as harassment is part of his journey.

Peter tells Anna that he literally wrote the book on Faison, and he’s surprised there’s so much he didn’t know. Like, she has a twin sister. Anna tells him, the less said about her, the better. He wants to know everything. Does he have other family out there? And Robin and her family, not to mention Robert, who’s seen as family. Mac said it’s a big tribe. Anna says, it’s his tribe too, if he wants them. He doesn’t know what he wants right now, but she tells him, no rush. They have all the time in the world.

Maxie asks Mac what he was talking about with not-Doc. Mac says it was a private matter. She says, first Lulu and Peter, now him. Mac asks if Peter is still camping outside her door, and she says, no, but if he was… Mac says he wouldn’t like it. Maxie says, Peter isn’t his father. Mac asks, how does she feel about him? He doesn’t want her hurt. She says, there’s a serial killer on the loose, and he’s worried about Peter? He says he doesn’t know what he’d do if something happened to her, but she says there’s not a safer place to be than where she is right now.

At the bar, not-Doc looks at Peyton ‘s driver’s license. Laura asks what he’s doing. He’s sending her mixed messages. First, he can’t get far enough away; now he’s her biggest fan. He says he might not want to be together, but thinks she’ll make a magnificent mayor. She appreciates that. Ned comes in, and congratulates Laura. Olivia says she ran a wonderful campaign, and Laura says Ned did too. Ned sees that she’s having a party, but wanted to concede. Losing is not his strong suit. Laura says, is it anyone’s? He says if there’s anything he can do to smooth the transition, name it. They’re all citizens, and when they’re threatened, either by an earthquake or a madman, they must pull together. Everyone applauds. Laura and Ned hug. Not-Doc watches.

Michael thinks Ned showed class, and Monica says, winning gracefully is one thing, but losing gracefully is another. It would have been nice to celebrate something though. Michael says, it would. Monica’s phone dings, and Michael asks if everything is okay. She thinks so. The reading of Gail’s will is next week.

Sam asks Shiloh if emailing Linda Black sounds familiar. He says she didn’t use that name, but she says if he was digging into her past, he knows she used several aliases. He asks if the emails were threatening, and she says they offered help. He says, with what? but she doesn’t know. Jason says maybe someone was using the name only to make Sam aware they know her past. Sam says, someone like him? Shiloh asks if she thinks a person can go from one thing to another. Realize they’re not on the right path, and not the person they want to be. She believes people can change, but if he did, that’s a different story. He says that’s what their lives are; stories. Now, as fate would have it, it’s their story, but that’s not the way she would think. He tells her to get to know him better. See him as her sister does – as a friend. Until then, he wishes them peace and fulfillment. He leaves, and Sam asks Jason how she did.

Peter wants to figure out his family tree. He owes it to James to know everything he can; where he comes from. Anna is happy to provide what he needs. She feels weird, and he tells her to have some water. She says she had a phlebotomy today, and it can make her dizzy and weak, and give her a headache. She drinks some water, but has a funny look on her face. Peter asks, what’s wrong?

Jason tells Sam that he thought she was convincing. The guy is good though, so whether Shiloh bought it or not, he doesn’t know. He didn’t let his guard down once. He stuck to his story. Sam says she bought it, but doesn’t think him meeting Kristina is an accident. Jason thinks he’s fishing for information; hoping for something to turn around. Sam says Con 101. Wait for the mark to tell you what you want to know. Kristina is trusting, and left herself wide open for Shiloh to take an opportunity to do what he wants with her. Jason thinks she has a right to be concerned. Somehow, Sam’s past with his father, Shiloh’s with Drew, and Kristina being in the group… Sam wonders what Shiloh is after, and Jason says, nothing good.

Ned thanks Olivia for coming with him. She says she’s happy to do her part for the city. It’s her home. If Ned had won, she’d have been with him, but the decision is made. Now, they’ll face new challenges, and she’s looking forward to it. Sleeping in late, going to Leo’s soccer games, the vacations they had to put off. He says they have their life back, and they kiss.

At The Floating Rib, the crowd calls for a speech. Laura thanks them for being there, and thanks Mac and Felicia for hosting. She thanks her friends and family for supporting her, and not letting her throw in the towel when she was sorely tested. Most of all, she thanks the voters for entrusting the town they all love so much to her care. She can’t promise she won’t make mistakes or do something they disagree with, but she can promise she’ll put in 150% effort every day she has the job. Her utmost priority will be the people of Port Charles, their welfare, and safety. She knows they’re afraid, and she’ll work closely with the PCPD to make sure they have what they need to catch the killer. Whoever it is, and wherever they are, their days are numbered. Not-Doc joins the applause, but doesn’t look sincere. If applause can be sarcastic, that describes it.

Anna tells Peter that she’s in pain, and needs to see a doctor. She starts to get up, then collapses.

Tomorrow, Obrecht asks Valentin if she should tell Nina what he’s been keeping from her, Franco asks Ava what the hell she’s doing, and Anna is blind.

💰 On Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles, Tracy handled an estate sale for Rose McGowan. Rose’s intention, along with the sale of the house, is to use the money for her legal battle against Harvey Weinstein. She left with two suitcases and an adventurous spirit. The whole exchange was kind of sad, but I suppose it would be a lot worse if she had nothing to sell. Dorit and PK, from The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, hired James and David to sell their house (probably one of several), after nixing the Altman brothers, Josh and whatever his brother’s name is. PK said the Altmans had also talked smack about David and James. James or David – I’m still not sure which one’s which – griped about spending $6000 on the open house. When the potential commission is nearly a quarter of a million, that should be a drop in the bucket. And it’s nothing compared to what Fredrik from Million Dollar Listing NYC would spend. PK surprised me by interfering in his broker’s job, insisting on talking to the potential buyer’s broker, and screwing up any negotiations that might have been made. Sellers get seriously greedy and/or sentimental when the rubber starts meeting the road. Next time, Josh Flagg drives an ice cream truck, and a house is robbed. Maybe.

🍮 On Top Chef, we got to see some Last Chance Kitchen with Nini from last week, and a dude named Brother, who no one knew because he was from another season. One of their tasks was to recreate the dish that got them there in the first place. The other contestants were required to help, and the ones helping Brother (what kind of a name is that anyway?) weren’t thrilled, since they didn’t know him from flan. Brother was doing a Southwestern/Asian fusion, and everyone was like, whaaat? I was okay with that, until the cilantro came out. I’m one of the 4 – 14% of people who think it tastes like soap, which is a real quandary, since I like Mexican food. Brother ended up going back to the competition, so I guess everyone will get to know him. The next challenge was to use an old fashioned cocktail as inspiration for an appetizer – one of those one-perfect-bite things – for a Roaring Twenties themed party. They had a choice of cocktails, and ironically, one of them was an Old Fashioned. Chef Ken Oringer (hello! who’s this nice looking man?) was a guest at the party, and a guest judge. Tom said one dish was sad in a cup, and I literally LOL’d. That’s pretty bad. I wasn’t paying enough attention to see whose dish it was, but found out later that it was Brian who had the sad, dry gnocchi. My money was on Eric’s oysters, and he won the challenge. Brother got on everyone’s nerves. They were annoyed because he hadn’t been on the rest of the season with them. He got reamed out by Tom for doing the same thing he did last time when he’d been given a second chance. Tom always seems pissed at elimination. In the end, Brother had to pack his knives and go. Tom told him that he was disappointed, which probably feels like your father telling you he’s disappointed. Brother thought maybe he needed a break, and it was someone else’s turn, which was a pleasant way to leave. Next time, actress Lena Waithe presents a challenge, and butchering skills are put to the test. And while we’re on the subject of chefs, what’s with this foam business? The only foam I want to see is on the top of a chocolate egg cream.

🎸 Google is Celebrating Earl Scruggs…

So…

 

January 9, 2019 – Margaux Visits Lulu, Hell in Allentown, a Turkish Engagement, an Interesting Combo, a Wives Listing, Some Sweet & Some Thoughts

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What I Watched Today

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

 

General Hospital

Alexis says an explanation of Cameron’s motives may or may not play with the judge. She’s hoping for one who has a soft heart. Judge Carson can be a bit of a hardnose. The bailiff tells everyone to rise. Presiding today, is the honorable Naomi Carson. The court comes to order.

At The Floating Rib, Laura thanks Carly and Sam for coming. She knows their family must have divided loyalties. Sam says Ned has done a great job, but the city isn’t a business. Carly says, Port Charles isn’t a building project; it’s a community, and Laura should run it. If nothing else, Laura hopes she’s made the public aware of some important issues. At the end of the day, it’s all they can hope.

Still looking through files, Curtis tells Jordan, this is some messed up stuff. It just keeps getting darker. He thinks Ryan did the world a favor by incinerating himself. Margaux walks in, and asks if there’s been any progress. She asks to talk to Jordan in her office, and Jordan wonders if she has a problem with Curtis being there. Margaux says she’s not comfortable with the PCPD bringing in a PI. Curtis offers to leave, but Jordan wants him to stay, saying they’ve realized the killer might be taking cues from Ryan Chamberlain. Margaux asks what kind, and Jordan says, the kind not available to the general public. They might have access to police files.

Olivia tells Ned, it’s easier to come in and criticize after the fact than roll up your sleeves and rebuild after an earthquake. She thinks people should be more appreciative of what he put in. He says, no matter what, he’s proud of what they’ve accomplished. Even when things went south after the earthquake, he had the best first lady. She says, the mayor wasn’t shabby either. He tells her that their interview with Lulu is about to start.

They put on the TV, and Lulu thanks them for inviting her into their home. By the time this airs, the campaign will be over, and people will be casting ballots. She asks how they feel. Olivia says she’s exhausted from the campaign trail, but excited for the future. Lulu asks, what about hopeful for a win?

Sonny drops by Lulu’s place. He was in the neighborhood, and wanted to check on her and the kids. She tells him that Charlotte is at Valentin’s this week, and Rocco is at the Quartermaine’s. Sonny says their family must be conflicted over the campaign. Lulu says she supports her mother, but her son is having a sleepover at her opponent’s house. Sonny is there to talk about a certain someone who’s off undercover. Does she know when Dante is coming home?

Laura thanks Mac for playing host. He says he’s happy to support her in any way possible, but wishes Doc was there to do the same. He supported her at the town meeting; he was warm and sincere. Maybe it’s a sign he’s coming around. She says she appreciates Doc’s support, but he doesn’t want to reconcile.

Carly can’t stop thinking about Oscar, and Sam can’t stop thinking about Drew. Scout will never know her brother; only through pictures and stories. She says Carly must be proud of Josslyn. It must be hard on her, but she wouldn’t be surprised if Josslyn found a cure or a miracle. Carly says, Josslyn is in denial. She can’t let herself believe she’s going to lose Oscar. She’s a fighter, and her first instinct is to take action and find a solution. Sam says, like her mother, and Carly adds, and her father. But soon she’ll have to face reality. Oscar will die, and she’ll be left to grieve. Sam is sorry, and Carly says she’s sorry too, and furious there’s no one to blame.

Margaux asks on what basis do they think the killer is mimicking the Chamberlain murders? Curtis tells her the driver’s license is missing from the victims; the same as in the other murders. Margaux says that information was never relayed, and Jordan says there aren’t any notations. It’s possible it wasn’t noticed until they made the connection. They were looking at the catalog of the victims’ personal effects. Curtis adds that they cross-checked it will all the victims’ files. They were all without driver’s licenses. Margaux says they never realized there was a pattern, and Jordan says there’s no way to know for sure unless they talk to Sean Donnelly. He was commissioner at the time. She gets out her phone, and asks for his number. She says she knows he lives overseas.

Sonny tells Lulu, dealing with his dad puts things in perspective. He doesn’t want to miss another holiday with Dante. Lulu says she heard from Dante on New Year’s Eve. He sends his love, but there were no details. He said he’d be out of touch for a while, so she got the impression that he’s going further undercover. Sonny asks if she told him what was going on, but she says she skipped that there’s a serial killer on the loose. Sonny tells her he has people watching her house, and she says she noticed. He says he can send a driver too, but she doesn’t want to be tripping over bodyguards. She told Dante everyone is okay, and work is keeping her busy. Telling him about the killer would worry him for no reason.

Olivia tells Ned the exit polls are neck and neck. She asks if he’s concerned about a repeat of the eleventh hour derailment of Alexis’s campaign. He says he and Laura kept their pledge; it was fair and square. They have a difference of opinion on some issues, but they both have mutual respect for the process, and a deep commitment to Port Charles. If he wins, he’ll do his best, and if Laura wins, he’ll support her. Olivia says, it’s possible to disagree and still respect someone as a person. She’s proud of how they both restored integrity to the politics of Port Charles. Ned tells Olivia that she’s been fantastic, and she says, so was he.

Alexis tells Judge Carson that her client is only sixteen-year-old. It’s his first offense, and has no record. It could be categorized as an error in judgement. Should it be used against him for the rest of his life? Judge Carson says the dealer is also a minor, and got twelve months in juvenile detention. Why should Cameron get a pass? Alexis says Cameron wrote a letter to the court, and asks if he can be allowed to read it. The judge agrees.

Cameron apologizes to the court and his fellow citizens for the mistake he made. He knew he was breaking the law, but did it anyway. He regrets it, and it won’t happen again. He’s not saying he won’t mess up – everyone does – but in the future, it won’t be illegal. He promises to learn from this experience, and be a better person. Alexis says, in light of Cameron’s sincere apology, she asks for an adjournment in contemplation of dismissal. Elizabeth asks to speak, and the judge allows it. She says she’s proud of her son for taking responsibility, but his apology is incomplete, and the court should know why he did what he did.

Sonny’s heart goes out to Lulu, waiting for Dante, and raising the kids on her own. He tells her that he’s always there to support her. She says she knows, but it’s nice to hear it. He has to meet Carly at her mom’s party, and Lulu says she’ll be following right behind. She just has a little work on an article to finish up. Sonny says he has a simple request. Don’t be afraid to kick Dante in the butt. The next time she talks to him, tell him time to come home.

On the phone, Jordan says to send her regards to the commissioner from his PCPD family. She tells Curtis and Margaux, sad news. She spoke to Tiffany, and Sean is having trouble recalling what month it is, so he’s out of the picture. Margaux says, it’s a dead end. Jordan says, maybe not. There’s someone who still lives in Port Charles who’s closely involved with a woman Ryan was obsessed with.

Carly tells Sam that she doesn’t know what she’d have done in Kim’s place. She hopes she never finds out, but keeping Oscar’s diagnosis a secret affected a lot of people. Sam says, including Josslyn. Carly says when she looked in Josslyn’s eyes, she saw a girl who’s strong, resolute, and haunted. She’s way too young to look like that.

Mac says, the exit polls are too close to call. It could go either way. Laura takes comfort in knowing she’s running against Ned. If he wins, she won’t be horribly upset. They disagree on certain things, but she respects him. Mac says that’s exactly why she should be mayor; she’s a fundamentally fair person. Carly asks Mac for more beers, and asks Laura how she’s holding up. Laura says she’s more nervous than she cares to admit. Carly says she ran a great campaign, and she loved Laura’s platform, especially holding Ferncliff accountable. Laura tells her that Doc reminded her Ferncliff is for the criminally dangerous, and to proceed with caution. He said he’d keep an eye on Ferncliff. Carly asks if she believes him, and Laura says, yes; doesn’t she? Carly says, no.

Carly asks Laura if she remembers how she kept asking about a patient when they toured Ferncliff. She had a friend look into it, and they said the patient’s name was Wilson. Laura says, first or last? Carly says she didn’t know, but Doc said he’d check it out. He told her the patient’s name is Wilson Ritter, and he has a history of violence. She researched him, and came up with nothing. As far as she can see, he doesn’t exist. Laura wonders, if he’s as notorious as Doc said, is it possible he was admitted under an alias? Carly never thought of that. Sam joins them, and Carly tells her the patient at Ferncliff may or may not be Wilson Ritter. Curtis and Jordan come in. Sam thought Jordan can’t take sides, and Jordan wishes Laura luck, but says she’s not here for the election. She came to speak to Mac.

Mac tells Jordan that he’s current on his liquor license. Curtis asks if he can spare a few minutes, and they sit at a table. Sam wonders what that’s about. Carly asks if Curtis isn’t her business partner, but all Sam knows is that he’s working with the PCPD. It’s all hands on deck to find the killer. Carly says after Laura wins, she highly recommends the DA be fired.

Margaux shows up at Lulu’s house, wanting to ask a few questions. She promises not to ask about family secrets. She tells Lulu that her house is nice and homey. You’d never know Lulu was sitting on privileged information about a serial killer.

Ned channel surfs. He says it’s an hour before the last precinct reports. Olivia can’t believe he’s not monitoring the returns. He says he can’t sit there cheering every uptake, and agonizing over every loss. It’s out of his hands, and he doesn’t have to torture himself. Olivia asks if he thinks he can distract himself by binge watching. He asks if she’s willing to try with him, and she says she’s in it all the way.

Elizabeth tells the judge that Cameron didn’t do it for himself, but for a sick friend. She knows it’s an obvious excuse, but it’s the truth. Cameron’s friend has a serious form of cancer. Elizabeth is a nurse, and sees the ravages of cancer every day. His friend was constantly nauseous, and had no appetite. Cameron wanted to help by making brownies. He knows it was a bad judgement call, but his motives were good. He was trying to help a friend. Judge Carson asks if Cameron is a nurse or doctor. Alexis tries to interject, but the judge says she’s asking Cameron a question. Cameron says he’s neither one of those things. Judge Carson says, yet he thought it was appropriate to intervene. How did he know if he would make it better or worse? Drew has walked in, and asks if he can field that question. The judge asks who he is, and he says his son is the young man Cameron was trying to help. His son is Oscar Nero, and Oscar’s mom is Kim Nero, a doctor at General Hospital. She couldn’t be there, but if she could, she’d attest to Cameron’s character. He’s a good friend. Judge Carson says, no one is questioning him being a friend, but questioning his judgement and actions. Drew says Oscar was a friend in need, and you don’t abandon a friend who’s suffering, walking into a bright future and leaving them behind. Cameron didn’t stop to think if he’d get in trouble or if it would affect his ability to get into college. He didn’t just say the appropriate words about thoughts and prayers; he did something. He took action. In Drew’s eyes, he’s a hero. The judge says it’s a very emotional case, but it’s her job to separate emotion from the law. The court is in recess. Elizabeth thanks Drew, and hugs him.

Olivia turns off the TV. She wants to take this time to talk with Ned. She says he campaigned hard, and she still believes he’d be the best mayor. He thanks her, but she says, here’s the thing. In her heart of hearts, she’s not sure she wants him to win.

Lulu tells Margaux that she’s a Journalist. If she comes across information the public should know, she writes about it. It’s literally her job. Margaux says what gives her pause is how Lulu acquired specific police files on Ryan Chamberlain. Lulu says Peter requested she have access for a background on the series she’s writing, and the PCPD cleared it. Margaux asks if she shared it with anyone, and Lulu says, with her readers, and the cases were all closed. She wonders what the problem is, and wants to record the conversation. Margaux tells her, don’t. What she’s about to tell her is strictly off the record. Lulu doesn’t think that’s fair, but Margaux doesn’t care. What she says stays there. People’s lives are at risk.

Curtis tells Max that they’ve combed the lists of the victims’ possessions. Jordan says, none of them had a driver’s license, and Curtis says, it’s the same with Mary Pat, Kiki, and Peyton. He knows Mac was close to the case. He asks if Mac ever discussed it with the police, and Mac says he would have, if they’d all worked together. Sean would have told him anything. Curtis asks if there’s anything else he can tell them, and Mac says he can tell them about Felicia’s fear, and now someone is copying Ryan. Jordan says they have no reason to suspect Felicia is in danger. A more accurate picture of Ryan’s behavior might help. Mac thinks he knows someone who’s able to help. He hopes it’s not too late. I’m not sure what he means by this. Is he talking about the hour, or as in, oh no, it’s too late?

Sonny tells Laura to have her acceptance speech ready, and asks for a minute. He says it looks like it’s going her way. She’s going to be pressured to distance herself from him, and he’s okay with that. Laura says she’s not. He tells her that he knows she’ll do good, but not if she gets hung up on corruption charges. Laura says she’s known him a long time. It’s a little late to pretend they don’t know each other. He doesn’t want their association to cause her trouble. She says she has nothing to hide – including her friendship with him

Sam asks Carly to say her goodbyes. Carly says tell Jason she said hi.

Mac tells Curtis and Jordan that he has a contact at Pentonville who’s worked there forever. He was hoping to get information on Ryan, but no such luck. He was in isolation, and his contact with other inmates was minimal. He was a snob, and felt they weren’t wroth his trust or attention. Mac wishes he had more. If the killer is copying Ryan, he’s going to be hard to catch, and they’ll need all the help they can get.

Margaux tells Lulu that they have reason to believe the killer might been emulating Ryan, and used info contained in the police files. Lulu asks what kind? but Margaux says she’s asking the questions. When Lulu was doing research, did anything jump out linking the murders, other than Ryan? Lulu says if she’s asking if Ryan put a signature stamp on his crimes, she didn’t notice anything. She says there must have been something if they think this is a copycat. Let her write about it. Margaux says, nice try. Lulu says she could make the killer panic. They’ll slip up, and get caught. Margaux suggests Lulu forget they had this conversation; it’s safer that way. Margaux leaves, and Lulu gets on her laptop. She looks up the files on Ryan.

Ned asks if Olivia thinks Laura will make a better mayor, but she says she thinks he’s spectacular. He wonders why the eleventh-hour change of heart. She says there’s a serial killer who loves public spectacle. Election day is perfect for a public murder, and she doesn’t want him targeted next. He tells her he’s safer than most people. He lives in a huge house with security gates and surveillance cameras; he’s safe. Olivia says, maybe she’s over-exaggerating (isn’t that redundant?) the danger, but maybe it’s a convenient excuse to quit while they’re ahead.

The hearing is back in session. The judge has reached a decision, and says she’s agreed to an adjournment in contemplation of dismissal for twelve months. There will also be appropriate community service and drug counseling. Cameron has a year to prove himself, providing she doesn’t see him in her courtroom again. After that time, the charges will be dropped. The hearing is over, and Cameron asks Elizabeth if he’s on probation for a year.

Elizabeth thanks Alexis. Alexis says she and Drew did the important work. Cameron says, not all of it. He appreciates what Alexis did for him. Alexis says he did it himself. He was very persuasive while under pressure. Franco asks how it feels. Cameron says he won’t lie. Community service and drug counseling are kind of a bummer, but if it keeps him out of juvie and clears his record, he’s all for it. Elizabeth tells him that he’s getting a job to help with legal fees. Franco laughs, and Elizabeth says, Alexis isn’t cheap. Drew tells Cameron to stop by his office. He’ll try to find him a job. Cameron doesn’t know how to thank him, and Drew says he doesn’t have to. Just keep being a good friend to his son. Cameron says maybe the three of them can go hiking, now that Oscar is getting better. Drew says, that would be great, and congratulates him.

Sonny tells Carly it was nice to see Sam. Is there anything he should know? She says Sam is spending time with Jason. Laura tells them, thanks for coming out. They can stay, but if she was them, she’d get out while the getting’s good. Carly knows Laura is going through a difficult time, but she stepped up.  Like everyone else who voted for her, Carly is grateful.

Jordan says the police never made a connection, and Mac says, Lulu never picked up on it. Jordan is no longer sure the killer had access to the police files; it could be a coincidence. Mac says, two killers with the same taste in trophies?

Lulu looks at the victim files, and compares them to Ryan’s.

Olivia tells Ned that she enjoyed being First Lady, but it’s a lot of work, being out, smiling, watching every tweet and word. Living in fishbowl is only suitable for fish, not humans. Ned misses his privacy too, but believes in what they set out to do. So does she. She’s sorry she’s whining, but she’s over it. Public service is hard, but important and worth it. She’s with him all the way. They kiss.

Alexis runs in to The Floating Rib, telling Laura that she just made it to vote. Laura says, every vote counts, especially now. Alexis has a good feeling. She thinks Laura will win. Laura says they’ll find out soon. Everyone looks at the TV.

Tomorrow, nothing would make Finn happier, the voters have spoken, and Mac tells not-Doc that something has to stay between them.

🍕 Tonight’s 24 Hours to Hell and Back featured Shanty on 19th in Allentown, PA. Gordon said it was living up to its name. He disguised himself as a member of the local hockey team, and dined on not-fresh but frozen scallops, sour shrimp, and burnt scallops masquerading as blackened. Hell on Wheels showed everyone such hilarities as the owner’s father spitting in the food – possibly the most disgusting thing I’ve ever seen on one of Gordon’s shows; and that’s saying a lot – a filthy kitchen, moldy food, sending out raw fries – a big no-no; raw potatoes can make you sick – the owner drinking on the job, and the employees screaming at one another within earshot of the patrons. Chef Kennedy said she wasn’t allowed to make changes, and owner Joe bought cheap stuff, but expected her to make miracles with it. She reminded me of Kim Zolciak’s Chef Tracey, and another one of the kitchen staff looked just like Jesse (Jesse Borrego) from Fame. Joe Sr. said Joe Jr. had a problem delegating authority, which prompted Gordon to say he didn’t have a problem delegating alcohol. BA-DUM-CHH! Joe Sr got the boot almost immediately, after smirking his way through watching his gross behavior on film. Gordon said it was the most dramatic 24 hours yet (yeah, yeah), with an owner who was drinking himself into oblivion and a disempowered chef. He hoped they stayed on point. He said the chef was a delight, and it was the toughest, but most rewarding of his makeovers. We saw a clip of Joe and the restaurant three months in, and he said they were doing fantastic. They learned to communicate, and he’s had to hire more staff because they have so much business. His wife commented on how Gordon fixed their marriage as well, because he is literally all things to all people, and the hardest working man in show business, next to Tyler Perry. Next time, a restaurant in Waterbury, CT, where the owner is exploiting his mother, and a chef is driven to the brink.

🍰 Not a lot happened on The Real Housewives of New Jersey. Probably because there were two events that held no drama. Jennifer was disappointed that her husband don’t care about article Jackie wrote, referring to their kids. We got advice from Frank – don’t buy boats. Jackie told Teresa that she’s a grown woman, and Teresa’s behavior at Marge’s wasn’t acceptable. Teresa insisted Jackie came at her first, which is her M.O., and no one else has thrown the situation in her face. We found out that Jackie’s dad did six months away, and both of her parents were on house arrest for IRS fraud. She thought it was amusing. She promised never to bring Juicy Joe up again. Teresa made peace, but in her interview, said, strike two. Frank is helping Teresa with her last three weeks before the fitness competition. He told her to lose twelve more pounds. I guess she’ll have to live on air. Normally, I would be pissed that anyone would tell a woman something like that, especially when it looks like she doesn’t have an ounce of body fat already, but bodybuilders are nuts, and she’s competing, so…  Marge had everyone over – sans Jennifer and Danielle – to her unfinished house, which still looked fabulous. She and Danielle are on the outs after Danielle’s wedding antics. Marge is done, and doesn’t want to have the same fight again. Dolores set up a day of pampering for the ladies from the shelter, and Marge contributed gift baskets. It got me thinking if this was a good or bad thing. Do they suddenly know what they’re missing and life is more of a bummer, or does it give them a goal? Either way, it was definitely a lovely gesture. The other occasion was the promise of engagement party for Jennifer’s brother. Everyone in the family is thrilled, since he’s forty-five, and they were giving up hope. The party was in Turkey, and I always love the traditional family stuff, like on Shahs of Sunset. I also love traveling without leaving my house. Both Jennifer’s and Delores’s spreads were incredible. Jennifer got pissed all over again about the article, and said Jackie has it coming. Next time, we’ll see what comes Jackie’s way, and Marge says she can’t associate with Danielle. Speaking of which…

👯 As Andy Cohen put it, the combo you didn’t know you needed, Danielle Staub and Lindsay Lohan on Watch What Happens Live. Lindsay looked glamorous, like a bombshell babe from the 40s, but Danielle’s face looked… not real. I’m not sure if it was too much Botox and fillers, or the makeup, or a combination of both, but I wasn’t loving the look. A scene from The Parent Trap with Andy and Lindsay on Clubhouse Playhouse was just embarrassing. And not for Lindsay. She also did not plead The Fifth, and according to her, has not even met Jax, much less hooked up with him.

💸 Dorit and PK (The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills) will be clients on Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles. Should be interesting. Those two are a trip. I wonder if Boy George will make an appearance.

🐮 Sweet Home is now on Wednesdays at 10 pm. I hope it does well in this slot, but I assume anything does better when not in the Friday night death knell spot. I’m loving this show just as much as I did their original Sweet Home Oklahoma. Tubbers, Pumps, and man-bunned Josh are still just as much a part of it, and that’s all that matters. A nice addition has been the street interviews with Oklahomans, asking about everything from drag queens to current events. This show is prime.

💭 Midweek Thoughts…

Talk amongst yourselves.

loaf

midweekkitty2

midweekadult (2)

midweekbaby

 

 

 

January 8, 2019 – Oscar is Released, Kathryn Calls the Shots, Loving Date, Captain Lee Checks Laura & Amalfi

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

 

General Hospital

One day, I’ll be in my desk chair exactly at 3 pm. So after the opening…

In her office, Kim calls to see if Oscar can get in on an experimental polio treatment that’s been known to work on inoperable tumors. She says her son doesn’t have two months to wait for the next trial. She slams the laptop shut, and cries. There’s a knock at the door. It’s Alexis. Kim asks what she wants. She wants to set the record straight.

Carly tells Josslyn that she voted. The lines are long, and she thinks it’s great that both candidates inspired such a turnout. Josslyn asks if Sonny can do her and Oscar a favor. Carly asks what they need, and Josslyn says they need Sonny’s jet, money, and connections. Me too.

Drew tells Sam that he met Hank, but doesn’t know anything about Shiloh. Sam says she’ll try to explain. Jason was at The Floating Rib, when a guy approached who supposedly mistook him for Drew. Anyone who lives in Port Charles knows that Drew owns Aurora Media and Jason works for Sonny. Hank has been in town long enough to buy a house. She doesn’t think he mistook Jason for Drew. She thinks it’s his way in. Drew asks, for what? She’s hoping he can tell her. He says she doesn’t believe a word Hank said. She tells him that she doesn’t. It’s partly true, but every con has a sliver of truth. She doesn’t believe he is who he says he is. He’s trouble.

Alexis tells Kim that she heard she and Julian broke up, and thinks it’s a mistake. She says, it didn’t happen; they weren’t together on New Year’s Eve. They talked briefly, and she convinced him to go to the hospital. He did, but then came back. They barely had a conversation, but whatever his motives are, they didn’t break up because of her. Maybe Kim should cut him some slack. Kim doesn’t give a damn who Julian slept with, and tells Alexis, get out.

Elizabeth tells Franco, it’s unthinkable. Drew and Kim put all their faith into the trial. They knew it might not work, but were hoping it would at least buy more time. Franco says he texted Drew, letting him know he’s there, but he hasn’t responded. Elizabeth says they have at least a little time with Oscar to make memories, and find a way to say goodbye. It’s not like it came out of nowhere. Elizabeth knows what she went through with Jake, trying to find a way to let him go, but she never lost hope. The ache in her heart never stopped, but she had a miracle. Franco says, maybe Oscar will too, but she says, Jake didn’t die. Helena took him. A disease is claiming Oscar. Franco says, it’s unfair. He can’t believe this is happening. Elizabeth says, she can’t believe so many things happened that did. They have to be in the present moment. She’s grateful he’s there.

Cameron tells Oscar that he thinks it’s the best news he ever heard. Oscar could have texted; he likes good news too. He’s glad it’s over. He needed a positive moment for what’s ahead when he faces the judge. He can say it’s cake compared to Oscar’s trial. The trial worked, right?

Carly asks what Josslyn thinks she can do for Oscar? Josslyn says there’s a clinic in Mexico offering alternative treatment, and they’ve had amazing results. There’s also a drug in England that’s illegal in the US. And Kim talked about a Brazilian doctor. Maybe Sonny could talk to some of his people about drugs unavailable. Carly says she’s done an amazing amount research. What did Oscar’s doctor say? Shouldn’t he finish the trial he’s in? Josslyn says, it’s over and done. It didn’t work, so it’s up to them to save Oscar’s life now.

Carly says she’s sorry, but Josslyn says, it’s okay. They’ll find other options. The internet is full of hope; you just need to know where to look. Carly asks if Josslyn has talked with Kim and Drew. Josslyn means no disrespect, but says, Kim is a doctor, and they don’t have the time to go through regulations. Carly asks if she doesn’t think Kim already looked into alternative methods, but Josslyn says Kim doesn’t know her way around the internet like she does. There are tons of stories about patients like Oscar. Carly asks if clinic ads come with the stories, and if they’re asking for money. Josslyn says, yes, but there are legitimate options for hopeless cases. Carly asks if they survived, and Josslyn says, not all, but a lot. Doesn’t she think it’s worth a try? Josslyn knows in her heart that if she gets him to a place, he can get better, but she needs help. She begs Carly to help her keep Oscar alive.

Cameron says they wouldn’t let Oscar out if he wasn’t okay, right? He’s relieved, and glad for everyone’s sake that it’s over. Things can go back to normal. Oscar says, speaking of normal, why is Cameron dressed like that? Cameron says he has to go to court. Oscar asks if it’s about his shoplifting. Cameron says he wishes. He got busted buying weed. Oscar asks if Cameron smokes, but Cameron says, no. He was trying to buy it.

Drew tells Sam that Hank told him about how Drew saved him in Afghanistan, but he hasn’t had a chance to check further. Sam says he changed his name from Hank to Shiloh after the rescue experience changed his life. Drew says Hank told him, no more hard living. He assumes the name change had something to do with that. She says he runs an organization made up of volunteers, mostly kids who work out of a community called Dawn of Day. He’s also written a self-help book with the same name. She thinks he’s using Kristina to get to her. She married Hank’s father, Henry, under an assumed name, cleaned out his bank account, and disappeared. She needed to help her brother. Drew tells her, it’s okay; she doesn’t have to explain her motives. Sam says she stole from Hank’s dad, so she stole from him. It can’t be an accident. He’s in Kristina’s life; she’s living there. Sam feels like she’s being set up.

Kim ask Alexis why she should be the one to smooth things over. She’s taking a pass. As Alexis said, she has a lot on plate, and doesn’t give a damn about Alexis’s noxious relationship with Julian. Alexis says it’s not about her and Julian; that’s what she’s trying to tell her. Kim says, how noble. Alexis is principled to a fault, except when she’s lying. Whatever is between her and Julian still exists. Kim says she’s tried to ignore it, but it’s still there. If Alexis wants to write another chapter with her ex, have at it, and leave her out of it. Alexis says she’s wrong. She’s just trying help things make sense. Kim says she can’t. Nothing makes sense, and it has nothing to do with her or Julian.

Drew asks if Sam is sure it’s the same place. Sam says Kristina told her Oscar was living there. When Hank was telling Drew how he saved his life, he forgot to mention Drew’s son was living there? Drew says, in all fairness, Hank might not have realized. He was shocked Drew had a kid. Sam asks if he used Oscar’s name, but Drew doesn’t know; he’s distracted. Sam says, it was a long shot. Maybe Drew’s records might have something about saving someone. Drew says, they don’t say much, and more than half is redacted. He’s sorry he can’t help. Sam says she’ll keep him posted. All these coincidences; Hank/Shiloh shows up, and Kristina is struggling. It doesn’t sit well with her. Drew says he’ll call if he hears anything. Sam says she just told him the guy who thanked him for saving his life happens be the son of a man she conned, and he seems to have no reaction. Is something else going on?

Kim tells Alexis, the amino treatment failed; the tumor didn’t shrink. The growth in his brain is entangled in the blood vessels, and there’s no way to remove it. Alexis is so sorry. She asks if Oscar knows, and Kim says they told him last night. He and Josslyn were stoic about it, but she doesn’t know how he’s processing it. She doesn’t know how or what to do. She’s been calling anyone and everyone to find another trial. She’s sent Oscar’s records to any clinic or hospital willing to help. She’s gotten referrals, but they all tell her that they don’t see another outcome. She’s even been looking at quack procedures, knowing they’re a scam. Alexis says she’s fighting any way she can. Kim says she made a mess, not telling Oscar his diagnosis, and forcing him into treatment. Oscar was right to hire Alexis to get away. That’s not the way Alexis sees it. Kim says she dangled hope in front of him, and made him believe he had a future. If she’d let him deal with it his way, he wouldn’t have been cooped up sick and weak. They could have gone skiing for Christmas, instead of spending it at the hospital. She took away precious weeks, and for what? For nothing. Alexis says they knew it might not work, and she’s not the only one who pushed. Drew wanted it, and Alexis did too. She’d hoped Oscar would choose treatment. Maybe he chose it for Josslyn, but he chose hope willingly and freely. Kim says, and it failed him.

Cameron tells Oscar it wasn’t for himself, but a friend. Oscar says, Josslyn? but Cameron says he has other friends. Oscar wonders why he’d do something so risky and stupid. Cameron says maybe it was worth the risk. His friend had no appetite, and needed strength to get out of the hospital. Oscar says Cameron did for him? and calls him an idiot. Cameron says the brownies he was going to make weren’t for the drama club, but he got caught in the middle of the deal. Oscar says, no good deed goes unpunished. Cameron says he was feeling sorry for himself, but Oscar getting better and getting out is a sign everything is going to be okay. Oscar hopes so. Cameron tells him not to forget the journal.

Carly tells Josslyn that she’d do anything for them, but she can’t without his parents’ permission. Josslyn says they’ve already given up. Last night, she could see it in their faces, and hear it in their voices. They’ve given up and think it’s over. Carly says, it sounds like it was about telling the truth. It’s what she and Oscar wanted, right? They’re Oscar’s parents, and can’t offer him another option because maybe one doesn’t exist, but that doesn’t mean they’re giving up. She tells Josslyn to look at how she and Sonny handled Morgan’s bipolar illness. They were discouraged, but even after he was killed, never gave up. They searched for answers until they found them. Josslyn says, this is different, and Carly says, it is and it isn’t. They get to decide what’s best. Maybe what’s best is giving the time Oscar has left meaning. Maybe they want to be a family while they’re still a family. Maybe they don’t want to chase after cures. Josslyn says her point is that if they don’t do anything now, Oscar will die. It’s up to her to be the strong one. Carly says she is, but so is Carly. Let her take some of the burden. She’ll offer Oscar’s parents whatever they need. She’s there for them.

Cameron read the journal; another alt dance without an earthquake. He sees water skiing, and asks if Oscar knows how. Oscar says, no, and he doesn’t know how to surf or paddleboard either. Cameron says Josslyn is really into him; Oscar’s a lucky guy. He tells Oscar, don’t forget it, and Oscar says he won’t, and he knows he’s lucky. Cameron asks him not to tell Josslyn about the weed. He doesn’t want her to know how crazy he got. He says his mom is blowing up his phone, and he can’t be late. Wish him luck. Josslyn comes in, and says Cameron looks like one of Sonny’s guards. What’s the occasion? He tells her that his mom is having a victory party when Laura wins the election. He leaves, and Josslyn says Oscar didn’t tell him. She asks how he’s feeling, and Oscar says, better, now that she’s there. She hugs him and asks, where else would she be?

Kim tells Alexis that she’s a woman of science, but she’s had countless conversations with God. Prayer, condemnation, pleas, demands; she’s made them all. She doesn’t know if they were heard or felt, but she doesn’t count anything out. She’s seen miracles happen. Miracles with babies who beat the odds, and with mothers who can’t conceive, yet carried healthy babies to term. She’s preached positivity to patients. Alexis asks if she’s preached it to herself, and Kim says, especially herself. If she believes strongly enough, she’ll get a miracle. Her boy will grow up a happy, healthy young man, with a long life. The thing about miracles is, they’re unpredictable. Alexis says she’s truly sorry this is happening. Oscar is a great kid, and she wants him to be around a long time. She’s there for Kim, no matter what. They hug, and when Alexis is gone, Kim cries.

Sam tells Drew that she’s sorry. She assumes what’s going on is none of her business. He says he wants her to know – but Carly interrupts. She says Josslyn is upset, and she was hoping she and Drew could talk. Drew asks Sam to stay; she needs to know this. They’ve wasted so much time keeping secrets, so he’ll get to the point. The treatment failed. Oscar is terminal.

Alexis arrives at court. She explains she’s going to ask for an adjournment; a contemplation of dismissal. If Cameron stays out of trouble for six months to a year, the charges will be dropped. They need to ensure that, although misguided, Cameron was making a sincere attempt to help a friend, and they don’t want it to derail his future. Cameron runs in, saying, let’s do this. Elizabeth says, this morning, Cameron was scared to death. He says he was just with Oscar, and if Oscar can stand up to cancer, he can stand up to a judge. At least he knows Oscar is going to be okay.

Sam tells Drew that she’s so sorry. Drew says Terry was clear; nothing can be done. Not medically anyway. It’s ironic. Yesterday, Oscar was having a great day. He had energy and an appetite, and was making plans for the future. He looks healthy and perfectly normal. He guesses it’s a blessing that the rest of Oscar’s life won’t be spent in a hospital bed. Carly asks, how much time? and Drew says, a few weeks, a few months; less than a year. He tells Carly that she should be proud. Her daughter is supportive and mature. He doesn’t think the news has sunk in with Oscar. He seemed stunned. Carly  says one reason she’s there, is she promised Josslyn that she’d offer Sonny’s jet to them if they want to take Oscar out of the country for treatment.

Josslyn tells Oscar, one good thing is that he’s getting out. Oscar wants to do what they’d planned, and Josslyn asks if he’s sure he’s up for it. He says, no, but the weird part is, he feels great. After all the weeks of not knowing, he knows he’s dying – but not today. Today he’s with her and feels alive. Josslyn says, her too. She spent last night worrying about what comes next, but today, she’s not worrying. It’s a waste of time, so she’s going to spend every second with him. They kiss. She asks if he’s sure he can handle an entire Kelly’s cheeseburger after weeks of hospital food. He tells her that he wants fries too. They leave, and the journal gets left behind.

Carly tells Drew that Josslyn was up all night on the internet. Drew says he was doing the same thing until 3 am, when he realized it was just another form of denial. Sam says Oscar might think differently. If anyone can get him to change his mind, it’s Josslyn. Drew says if Oscar wants explore other options, he’ll do whatever Oscar wants, but it’s his choice. It’s his time that’s running out, so he gets to decide how he lives the rest of his life. Carly says she’ll talk to Josslyn if necessary, but she thinks Josslyn will get there on her own. Her first instinct is to fight. Drew wonders where she gets that from. Carly says, Josslyn is wise enough to know it’s not the quantity of time, but what you do with the time left.

On the phone, Kim says, see you later tonight. For a moment, we think she might be talking to Julian, but she says, have fun with Josslyn, and be careful. She loves him. She sits on Oscar’s hospital bed, and sees the journal. She looks through it

Elizabeth tells Cameron, remember to speak clearly and respectfully, take responsibility for his actions, and show remorse. Cameron says he absolutely will. He should have gone with his first instinct, canceled the deal, and never shown up. He wishes he could get a do-over. Alexis says he might be able to; it’s what she’s going for. In the meantime, listen and be the contrite, upstanding young man who knows he made a mistake. Franco wonders if Cameron should explain why, but Alexis says, it depends on who the judge is. If it’s Judge Carson, it could be a problem. She’s a real hardnose. The bailiff says, all rise. Naomi Carson presiding. They all look at each other, while Cameron stares straight ahead.

Tomorrow, Ned says it’s out of his hands, Judge Carson reaches a decision, Laura tells Sonny that she has nothing to hide, and Margaux tells Lulu something off the record.

The Haves and the Have Nots

When we last left, Veronica had fallen over the railing at David’s house, and Benny was shot on the front stoop where Hanna is living.

Hanna tells Benny, hang on; they’re coming. She can still smell the baby’s breath from when he was little. She tells God, no. We hear sirens, and she says, they’re closer. He’s going to be all right, in the name of Jesus.

Veronica lies among the packing boxes. Madison tells Jeffrey to call an ambulance, but he’s not in any hurry. Veronica tells Madison to get his homosexual hands off of her, but he says he’s trying to help her. He asks Jeffrey what the address is. Veronica says Jeffrey did this. Madison tells her to relax and stop moving. Jeffrey says if she doesn’t want his help, don’t touch her. Madison says, she could die, but Jeffrey says, she’s like a cockroach. You can’t kill her. He goes back upstairs.

The nurse tells Hanna, relax, or at least try. Derrick arrives, and asks, what happened? She says she doesn’t know who shot him, but knows who does. Derrick asks if Benny is all right, but she doesn’t know. He stopped breathing on the porch and in the ambulance. They say he lost a lot of blood. Derrick says, it will be all right; she’ll be all right. She says she didn’t hear gunshots, and asks, what would make someone do that? Mitch shows up, and says he’s sorry. Hanna wonders why he called her, and he stumbles over his words. He says he knew someone was after Benny – it was his family. Hanna says, it was because of the damn money. Mitch says, and his uncle getting shot. She says Benny didn’t do that, and Mitch says he told them. He’ll talk to his grandmother and she’ll straighten it out. Hanna can’t do this right now. She doesn’t want him here. He says he was trying to stop it, but she doesn’t want to hear it. He’s so sorry. Benny is his friend, and he wants to know he’s okay. Hanna wonders how she knows he’s telling the truth, and not just here to get information. He says she knows him; he’d never do that. Derrick suggests giving him the number and he’ll call. Mitch begs to stay for Benny. Derrick thinks he should leave, but Mitch says it’s a public hospital, and he just wants to know what happened. He sits near the wall.

Madison asks if Jeffrey is sure he doesn’t want to go to the hospital. He doesn’t. Madison doesn’t know how she treats him. Madison tells Jeffrey that he can’t let her make him bitter. He gets the psychology, and is just trying to help. Jeffrey says he didn’t mean to snap. He just gets crazy thinking about her. Madison thinks Jeffrey should take his mind off of it, and they decide to go out to eat. Madison suggests seeing his mom afterward, but Jeffrey tells him not to push his luck.

At the hotel, Candace sits on the bathroom floor, crying. Charles wakes up, and calls to her. She says she’ll be out in a moment. He joins her, and tells her to let it out. He holds her as she cries over her son. He’s dead, and she’s the reason. He didn’t have a chance. She brought him to this town. Charles tells her, it’s okay, but she says, it’s too much. He says she has to let it out. She suddenly pulls herself together, and says, okay. She goes into the other room, and gets her bag. He asks what the shift was. One minute she’s breaking down; the next, she’s leaving. She’s not doing this. She’s not crying and blaming herself anymore. Candace says she has to get out of this place. He wants her to come with him. She says she’s in no shape, but he says she is. She’s like him; the weight of the world is on her shoulders, and she can’t hold it together. She’s human. She says, this human is leaving, but he doesn’t want her to go. How many ways does he have to say it? He wants her to come with him. She says, to the White House? Isn’t that for the President Elect and future First Lady? There must be protocol. He thinks they can rewrite some protocol. Her phone rings. Charles says, whoever it is can wait, but she answers. It’s Mitch. He tells her, Benny has been shot; he’s in the hospital. She says she’s on her way. She tells Charles her brother has been shot. Charles asks if he’s okay, but she doesn’t know. He says he’s coming with her. She says he can’t, and he says he is. He calls Landon. Landon runs in with the Secret Service guys, and Charles tells them they’re going to the hospital. Landon asks what to tell the press, but Charles doesn’t care. They have to move.

FBI Dude asks Dr. Rothschild how Veronica is. The doctor says they need a warrant for that information. FBI Dude goes into Veronica’s room. She says she was just in a terrible fall, and can’t talk. He says they know, and she says, of course; they were following her. She tells him that she fell off a ladder, and he says, it’s not that simple. She yells that she’s in pain. FBI Dude says the doctor claimed she had no broken bones. Veronica says it’s illegal to tell him medical information, and FBI Dude says the doctor didn’t tell him; she just did. He looks at her chart, and says she just has tight muscles. She says he shouldn’t be reading her chart, but he says she’s under federal investigation with the FBI and Homeland Security. She no longer enjoys the privileges of being a public citizen after the car bomb. She tells him that he needs to brush up on the law. She’s a damn good lawyer. He says, locally, and she tells him take his best shot. He says he’ll be throwing his best bomb, and she tells him, get busy. He asks if she’s not cooperating, and she wonders if his ignorant, sweaty ass is hard of hearing. She asks how long he’s been on coke. She knows he needs it. She runs a rehab, and can see an addict a mile away. She’ll tear his ass up on the stand. She tells him that he’d better go get his fix. He’s leaving a puddle on her floor. The FBI guys leave. In the hallway FBI Dude tells Silent Guy, he’s nailing her ass to the wall. Put pressure on everyone in her circle until someone breaks.

Kathryn tells Roderick, don’t make her have to come in there, as he dawdles in the bathroom, finally coming out in his skivvies. She wonders if he thought she’d let him get away with the whole ring thing. She wants it shut down now. He asks what if he refuses? and she asks if he was born there. He says, in Brooklyn, and she says, that’s a lie. He was born in Guadalajara. His passport is fake, and his social security number is fake. He asks how she knows, and she says, that’s the question he should be asking himself. He asks how long she’s known, and she says, since he first flashed his sexy Latin eyes at her. He asks if she’s having him deported, but she says, no. She’ll have him whenever she wants to. She tells him not to be shy. She wants that girl – Candace Young. She wants everything he has on the ring, and Candace’s ass in jail. She doesn’t want to hear one kind word about that whore. She asks what Roderick has on her, and he says, a bartender is upset with her. He knows things. Kathryn asks his name, and Roderick says, Rocky. She asks if he’s there today, and tells Roderick to call and have him come up. Roderick starts getting dressed, but she tells him, no. Get him on the phone now.

The phone at the bar rings. Roderick tells Rocky to come up to the room. Kathryn wants champagne. Roderick tells him to bring it; just come.

Landon speaks to the chief of staff at the hospital, asking about Benny. He also needs the names of sick children and their families. The President Elect is visiting, and the hospital is going to look good on the news.

Wyatt calls the guards over. We find out their names are Leo and Max. Wyatt asks Leo how much his father is paying to keep an eye on him. Leo says that’s between him and Wyatt’s father, but sometimes it’s not enough. Wyatt says it can’t be too much. There’s a knock at the door. Max gets it, and it’s Sarah looking for Jim. Wyatt says, she’s the one. She says she needs to talk to Jim, and he’s not answering his phone. Wyatt doesn’t think he’ll be gone long, and tells her sit, saying Max and Leo are his shadows. He offers her a drink, but Leo says, there’s no alcohol in the house. Sarah just wants water, and they all go to the kitchen.

Wyatt asks, what happened? and Sarah repeats she needs to talk to Jim. He asks if she’s into his father. She says, no, and he asks if she’s sleeping with him. She says, no, and he says she’d be the first. She wants to leave, but he tells her to stay. He’ll call a friend, and see if he can find out where Jim is. He says he’s going to the bathroom, and asks if Leo wants to shake it for him. Leo says, no sir, but still follows.

Rocky comes to Kathryn’s room. Roderick lets him in. Roderick asks if she’s Kathryn Cryer, and Kathryn says, wrong. She’s the woman who has him by the balls. She tells him, he’s a bartender, and that’s champagne, and he pours it. He asks Roderick, what’s going on? Kathryn says, cut the crap. She knows about the prostitution ring. Rocky acts ignorant, and she says just give her the damn champagne. She tells Roderick to tell Rocky what else she knows. Roderick says she has him the way she has Rocky. Kathryn says she’ll have him arrested. Rocky says it wasn’t his idea, and Roderick says, she knows. Rocky says he was just supposed to look out for Candace. Kathryn says she heard he took a beating, and asks if he wants to get even. Rocky says Candace will go to the police, and he’ll get in trouble, but Kathryn says, not if he blames her. She can’t believe he has loyalty to that whore. Rocky says he doesn’t want to get in trouble, and Kathryn says if he doesn’t do it, she will. She asks how long he’s been in the states, and he says he’s legal. She says she has friends in the State Department who might say different. Rocky says, all right; he’ll do it. There’s no need to threaten him. She asks if he’s involved, but he says, no. She looks him over, and tells him to stand up. She’s horny. Roderick says, just do what she says, and Kathryn tells him to take his clothes off. Rocky says, no way. Kathryn says she hasn’t had a threesome in a long time, and it’s going to be fun. Roderick pats Rocky on the back, and gets into bed. Yuk. With those two?

David gets a vest to help his wounds heal. He tells the intern, it hurts like hell, but she tells him that he can take medication. He doesn’t have to be a hero. She cautions him against infection, and says he’s doing really well. He says, it doesn’t feel like it, but she thinks he is, and so does the doctor. He’s healing fast. David says he wants out, but she says they’ll see.

Jim visits David. He tells David that he had a hard time getting up to the room. The hospital has a special guest; the President Elect. David says, Charles? Jim says David acts like he knows him, and David says he does. The intern tries to interrupt, but Jim hustles her out. David asks, what’s going on? and Jim says he has an informant at the DA’s office; some bimbo who got caught. She gave him evidence. David is like, damn, and Jim says she came to the house wearing a wire. That’s why he didn’t want to say anything on the phone. David asks if Jim said anything incriminating. Jim says, no, but if she tells everything she knows… He’s not sure he can control this woman. David asks what Jim has on her. Jim says, just her past, but he’s sure the DA already knows about it. David says, not good, and Jim says, ya think? They have to come up with something else. Jim tells David about Kathryn’s rendezvous, and David asks, what’s going on with these women and young men? Veronica is with a boy Jeffrey’s age. Jim says, they’ve lost their minds, and asks, how old was Erica? David says, that was different, and Jim says, he forgot; they’re different. David asks how old Candace is. Jim thinks 114, and I laugh. Jim pats David on the back, and David cringes. Jim asks if that hurt.

At the hospital, a Secret Service guy says Hanna can stay. He asks if she knows Derrick and Mitch. She says she does, and he says, they can stay. He pats Derrick down. Mitch wonders how they know his name, and the guy says, this is a matter of national security, and pats him down. Derrick asks Hanna, what’s going on? but she doesn’t know. Mitch asks again how they knew their names. Candace comes in with Charles, and Hanna says, oh my God.

Next time, Hanna thinks it will be an interesting four years, Justin asks where Jeffrey has been, Wyatt asks Sarah for a favor, and Jim punches Roderick. Like he cares. This season looks promising. The main takeaway points I got from the preview were, Jim is taking everybody down, and God hears Hanna.

💔 At last! If Loving You is Wrong returns on Wednesday, February 27th at 10 pm. I’d almost given up.

Below Deck

When we last left, Laura was telling Kate she needed to check herself.

We rewind a little. Kate leads Laura away from the guests and down the stairs. Laura says Kate needs to seriously figure her sh*t out, and have some appreciation. There are other ways to approach her. She didn’t have to go through the cabins at the end of her shift. She needs to check herself. In her interview, Kate says rule number one is, don’t scream at your boss in front of the guests, and rule number two, don’t scream at your boss period. And rule number three, check your own self. Kate goes to see Captain Lee, telling him they have an issue. Laura had a temper tantrum, and screamed at her within earshot of the charter guests. The problem started when she asked Laura to do turndowns, and saw towels on the floor. She’d like the captain to give her a gentle reminder of the boat hierarchy, fire her, or Kate can quit. There are three options. In his interview, the captain says he can’t just pull stews off fig trees. He tells Kate that he doesn’t think a chat tonight will do any good, so he’ll talk to her in the morning. Laura will have to get it together.

Kate tells Josiah about what happened. He thinks they should fire Laura, since the two of them can do two jobs. Adrian and Ashton laugh about checking yourself. Helen declares dinner a palate aphrodisiac. Josiah loves it. He thinks Helen is in love with  Adrian.

Tyler tells Rhylee that emotions are out there. Laura was screaming and yelling at Kate. Ashton asks if Laura feels better. She is, but doesn’t want them laughing at her expense. In Laura’s interview, she says she’s felt walked on and humiliated. Sorry not sorry. Omg, the dessert would be worth being screamed at. It involves dark chocolate, almonds, and sponge cake. Helen wants Adrian to watch them bite into it. In his interview, Josiah suggests the just get a room already. Helen requests that Adrian witness the first bite, and pronounces it outstanding. Adrian relays the scene to Ashton, who thinks Helen is completely thirsty. The guests go to bed. For alleged mafioso, they’re not very exciting.

Laura asks Rhylee to check the dryer in a half hour, since she wants to go to bed. Rhylee tells Laura about Tyler. Laura tells her about Kate showing her what’s wrong with her turndown. She says Kate is the fakest, most horrible woman she’s ever met, and she can’t appreciate her workers. Rhylee says there’s only two weeks left, and Kate can run Laura ragged. She needs to rise above it. In Rhylee’s interview, she says she’s kind of proud of Laura. Kate says she doesn’t love sass, or a stew who can’t do their job. A combo of the two is the worst.

Lots of bacon in the morning, and beautiful scenery. Laura asks Kate where the bread plates are, and Kate ignores her, going slowly up the stairs in front of Laura, who’s carrying something heavy. <snort!> Kate points out where the plates are, saying they’ve been there the whole time. Captain Lee calls for Laura to come to the wheelhouse. He understands they had an issue last night. He tells her all she needs to do is her job, and no confrontation with the chief stew in front of the guests. He doesn’t care who started it. Laura says she was upset about something, and it came out in a less than eloquent way. She agrees with everything he said, and he says he wants nothing less. She leaves with a smile, and in the captain’s interview, he says Laura let her mouth write a check her ass couldn’t cash. She has to suck it up, and do the right thing.

Ross instructs the deckhands about what to get ready. In her interview, Rhylee says, it’s frustrating. She’s never on anchor. She keeps bringing it up, but she’s usually shut down. We flash back to Ross telling her to lose the attitude. On deck, Ross thinks there’s rain in distance. Laura tells Ashton that she’s taking so much sh*t. She complains a lot, but no one seems super sympathetic. Probably because it’s your job, dude. Breakfast is served. In Kate’s interview, she says all she can tell about the guests, are that two are mafia, and they’re not too high maintenance. Helen would never tell Richard to check himself.

Anchor is up, and they move out. In his interview, Ross says Tyler catches on fast, and Rhylee is in a great mood, so it’s a breath of fresh air. Wairoa Cove, where the guests are staying the night, is indescribably beautiful and blue. In her interview, Rhylee is tired of being overlooked, and wonders at what point it ends. Richard asks the captain to join them for dinner. Kate says she’s giving Laura a checklist. She doesn’t care if Laura is lying about her experience, but cares if the guests have towels and toilet paper.

Helen is getting heart palpitations from the height of the slide. It is pretty high up. Tyler says he’s big on active guests, and these guests are super lame. In Ross’s interview, he thinks Rhylee wants to prove something. She’s hauling some equipment around the beach club, and he tells her to let him know when she needs help; she’s doing too much. She wonders why he’d say that, and he says he can see it. Let me insert my opinion of their problem here. She is huffing and puffing, and no doubt this stuff is heavy. He sees this, and thinks he’s being a good guy by telling her that he’s there if she needs help. She takes it as him thinking she can’t handle the simple, menial tasks she’s being given, and maybe that’s why he’s not giving her something more important. They’re looking at it from two totally different perspectives, but because they’re not communicating that, this is what happens – she says, she’s got it. He’s like, cool, but if you need help… She says again, she’s got it, but he doesn’t like her tone. If he wants to handle the sh*t, do it. Or let her effing do it, but quit asking her. He wonders what the hell is going on? He can’t keep up. She says she’s told him five times, and he keeps asking her the same questions. He tells her, got it, isn’t a response. Josiah walks in, and immediately realizes he doesn’t want to be there. In Rhylee’s interview, she says Ross doesn’t listen. Ross thinks she doesn’t listen, and tells her that he can talk to someone else, who will listen. In his interview, Ross says he’s over it. Rhylee has had seven charters to learn her place and trust him. She’s got to go. Guest Linda snoozes on deck, clutching a glass of rosé.

Tyler feels like he’s out of the loop. Laura says she does too. In his interview, Tyler says he loves watching people lose their sh*t. It’s the best entertainment, as long as he’s not in the middle.

Ross says if Rhylee won’t listen to reason, he needs to find someone who will listen. In his interview, Ashton says one day, Rhylee is happy, and the next, she’s miserable. It’s so annoying. Laura asks if Rhylee is okay, and Rhylee says she’s good right now. Kate radios Laura to the check the cabins for toilet paper and towels. Laura says Kate is trying to screw with her on purpose. Tyler just keeps eating, and doesn’t say a word.

Lunch is duck confit. I have no idea what that is, but even though I’m not a fan of duck, it looks delicious. Helen says she’ll see Adrian in kitchen at six. In his interview, Adrian says she obviously has a crush on him, and she’s married to Tony Soprano. So awkward.

The captain says the weather is going south quickly. He wants everything nailed down, and doesn’t want to lose any covers. The deck crew brings everything in. Tyler ropes a flamingo floatie. Laura asks Adrian if they still have to dance, and he tells her to get her ancient dance routine together. Rhylee is over it. Even Tyler, with no experience, is above her. Not one of them has treated her with any respect.

Adrian asks if there can be dinner without drama, and Kate says there can be. She tells him, sometimes it’s better to go to the captain right away. Laura was acting big and bad with her, but not saying the same things to the captain. She holds up a couple of palm fronds, and says she’s found Ashton’s costume. He asks, why not pick on the new guy? Helen puts her heels on for the kitchen. He’s preparing some kind of cauliflower dish, and she watches him cook, asking an occasional question. Ashton peeks in, and asks if Adrian has a new sous chef. In Adrian’s interview, he says Helen reminds him of his first girlfriend, but he’s worried husband will put him in a body of water. Helen helps do some of the cooking. She says, the anticipation of what’s to come is almost as good as the experience. Ashton, Laura, and Tyler practice their dance routine.

Rhylee tells Kate that Ross is threatening to get rid of her, but Kate says she’s not going anywhere. She’s good at her job, but isn’t getting the respect she deserves. Kate tells her to let them worry and stress. In her interview, Kate says she doesn’t think Ross is serious about getting rid of Rhylee. At least Rhylee is serious about her work. She tells Rhylee to be the bigger person, and don’t get sassy. Rhylee radios Ross, asking him to meet her in the beach club. When he arrives, she tells him that she enjoys working with him, but feels like she misses out on the big things. She wants more respect. She needs to feel like she’s doing more. Ross says what she’s doing is important. There are things he can’t trust Tyler with because he has no experience. And he doesn’t like that she doesn’t respect him. Rhylee says she feels like she’s underneath everyone, doing menial jobs. In Ross’s interview, he says if she’d stop questioning him, she’d realize what he’s asking her to do is important. He tells her that he’s letting this conversation go. He doesn’t want her to leave, but she can’t just argue and disagree with him.

Kate gives Laura her list, and tells her, checklist yourself. Laura laughs, and in her interview, admits her turndowns weren’t the best, but Kate needed to let her know how she does things. In her interview, Rhylee says she has a temper. She gets it from her father. It’s hard to admit, but obviously she’s the issue.

Dinner is served. The main components being seared tuna and snow peas. Mmm… Helen says, it’s like eating a painting. Captain Lee says Adrian has mad skills. Tyler is stoked for dancing while half-naked. Ashton thinks they look brilliant. Kate says Laura is doing a great job, now that she has a checklist. She announces to the guests that local performers are there to finish off their meal. Aston reads from his ancient Tahitian ancestral storybook, that’s been passed down for generations, and narrates as the others dance. Everyone applauds. Helen says they have quite the crew. The captain bids them goodnight.

Laura tells Ashton that she’s exhausted. At least she and Kate are being nice again. She’s excited for tomorrow, and Ashton asks if she’s sleeping in the crow’s nest again. In Laura’s interview, she says Ashton has a good heart. She doesn’t know him well, but what she knows, she likes.

Anchor is pulled, and the guests get ready for departure. Rhylee and Ross hug it out. In his interview, Ross hopes he got through to her, so they can end the season on a good note. Rhylee wants to explore on land. In her interview, she says she’s been herself more with Tyler. Maybe because they had sex right away. The boat docks, and Captain Lee asks for the crew in their whites, asap. The tip is presented, and co-primary Craig says they’re fabulous. The captain tells the crew to be in the crew mess in five.

Captain Lee tells them that he loved the skit, but he’s concerned they’re starting to lose focus. It’s not a democracy. They don’t get a vote. He’s not asking them to love everyone, but if everyone is doing their job, no one should have complaints. There’s no reason they can’t pull together for a strong finish. The tip is $20K, which, by my calculation, is almost three grand each. Some of the crew take power naps; then everyone gets ready to go out. Adrian tells Laura that Ashton is a creeper. She says she’s not the kind of girl who’s another notch in a belt.

Ashton puts his arm around Laura in the taxi. She hopes he proves Adrian wrong. They go to a restaurant/club that has a DJ. Major drinking happens. Tyler dances with Rhylee. Ashton looks around, beginning his creep dance. Josiah thinks Tyler and Rhylee are perfect. Laura blows off Ashton. He’s confused, saying they were on a good vibe, but now she’s cold. It’s not stopping him from having a good time though. In Tyler’s interview, he says he’s 200% when he goes out. He wants good stories for when he sits in the rocker. He starts getting down and dirty with a stranger. In Rhylee’s interview, she says she and Tyler aren’t in a relationship, so she can’t hold him to any standards. Josiah tells Laura to show Ashton what he’s missing, but she says Ashton can go have fun. Ashton tries get close to Laura, and sits on her purse. She says he’s rude. The crew gets ready to leave.

The cheese Ashton sits alone in the taxi back. Tyler falls out on Rhylee’s lap. When they get back to the boat, Ashton asks Laura to chat. She asks if he’s drunk. Rhylee and Tyler get in the same bunk. In her interview, Rhylee says this doesn’t mean she forgives Tyler, she’s just in the mood for sex. We see yet another stray dog on the dock. Ashton asks Laura what’s upset her. She says she’s not upset but… nothing. In Laura’s interview, she says she thought Ashton respected her, and they’d established a connection. He asks, what changed? She says she didn’t see him all night, and he danced with other girls. That’s fine, but she’s not going to be a tally on a checklist. Ashton says he didn’t hook up. She was his priority. Yeah. I can’t figure that out either. Laura says, it’s all good, but he made his bed, so go sleep in it. Adrian said he was a player. Since he’s totally distracted, Laura says, if he’s not listening, she’s walking away. Ashton says, cool; let’s end it. She says he’s wasted, so there’s no point.

Next time, an all gold party, Rhylee and Tyler do it five times, Kate says the guests are extra extra, and a guest falls off a jet ski.

🚤 More Amalfi…

 

 

January 4, 2019 – A Killer Connection is Made, a Farewell, Some Bloopers, a Divorce, Back to the Kitchen, Hell, Roll Call, a Half-Dozen Quotes & First Weekend

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What I Watched Today

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

 

General Hospital

Marcus tells Sonny that he has nothing to say to him. Sonny says they both just want what’s best for Yvonne and Mike. They can’t make decisions for themselves anymore.

Mike wants to go to Turning Woods, but Stella warns him things might be different. He asks if she’s referring to the guy who says he’s Yvonne’s husband. He wants to take her away, but Sonny left to stop him. Mike wonders, what if he’s too late?

Curtis meets Jordan at the station. She thanks him for coming. He asks if she has any new leads on the murder, and she says, murders, plural. He’s always been her favorite person to bounce ideas off of. He tells her, they make a good team. She says there are three victims. The only thing they have in common is the killer. She needs a breakthrough.

Maxie and Nina arrive for the self-defense class Chase is teaching. Elizabeth walks in, and wonders if it will be just the three of them. Under her breath, Nina mutters that she hopes not. Willow comes in.

A town hall meeting is being held at Charlie’s. Laura thanks Julian for hosting. He says any exposure is never a bad thing. Maybe he’ll gain new customers. Lulu says maybe they’ll gain new voters. She wonders if the serial killer might deter people from coming, but Laura says, there’s comfort in being together; there’s strength in numbers. Not-Doc arrives, and says, absolutely. The killer doesn’t stand a chance. Lulu tells him if he came to make a scene, turn around now. He tells her, stand down. He was just getting coffee, and then he’ll leave. Laura says, that’s not necessary. He’s a member of the community, and always welcome. Ned tells Laura, bring it on. She says she plans to.

Julian sets up a podium, and introduces himself. He’s proud to host the meeting, and reminds them the election is just one day away. He turns the meeting over to Lulu. Lulu says she’s Laura’s daughter, and also her biggest supporter, but she’s not incapable of being fair and unbiased. She’ll try her hardest to be both. Ned tells everyone that he and Laura agreed. As long as Lulu doesn’t cut him off or mute his mic, they’ll be okay. Laura points out that he doesn’t have a mic. Lulu asks for questions.

A woman named Wendy gets up. She says she lives downtown, and asks what the candidates will do to bring more diversity among the staff appointees. As the current mayor, Ned goes first.

Chase says they’ll be getting started in a few minutes, and tells Willow it’s good to see her. Nina introduces Maxie to her as Charlotte’s teacher. Willow and Maxie talk about leggings. Elizabeth asks if Willow has done this before. She says, no, but thought it was time. Nina pulls Maxie aside, and asks why she’s being nice to Willow. Maxie says, why not? Lulu says she’s great. Nina says, of course she would, and walks away. Maxie wonders what she missed.

Curtis looks at the bulletin board Jordan has set up, and says she’s been busy. Jordan says the first order of business is to squash panic. Curtis says, easier said than done. She says Chase is teaching self-defense classes, the FBI has given them their full resources, and the state police have stepped up their presence. Curtis says she has everything under control, and she says, everything except a suspect. Where to begin? Curtis says, if Doc is right, it begins with them.

Stella tells Mike, whatever his experience with Marcus is, he’s a decent, loving man. Mike would be more inclined to believe that if Marcus wasn’t keeping him and Yvonne apart. They’re not children. They know what they need, and what they need most is each other. Stella says, it’s a blessing to find someone who makes you happy, no matter how late in life. Mike says the real blessing is that he makes her happy. Why can’t Marcus see that?

Marcus says it’s different for Sonny. He brings his father for the day, and takes him home. He sees Yvonne during visiting hours, and might as well be a stranger. Sonny says he’s sorry, but Marcus isn’t asking for pity. In sickness or in health is what they vowed, but he didn’t promise to give her a Christmas present from a man she’s only known a few months. Sonny says Stella calls them coping partners. They help each other in ways the two of them can’t. He didn’t want his father there. He wanted him home, but Mike insisted. Marcus asks, why? Sonny thinks Mike felt it was the next step, and he was afraid to take it until he met Yvonne. Then the place became okay. He believes Mike is helping Yvonne too. Marcus says, for the last few weeks. They’ve been married thirty years. This is just a blip; short term. Sonny says, being honest, short term is all they have.

Sonny tells Marcus, this disease is son of a bitch. He used to hold his breath when he’s see his dad, wondering if Mike would recognize him. Marcus says it’s hard the first time they don’t, and Sonny says he’ll never forget it. He suggests Marcus not have expectations. One day his father knows him, the next day he doesn’t. Marcus asks how Sonny let go. Yvonne walks in, wondering where Mike is. Marcus tells her that Stella is looking out for him. She asks who Marcus is, and he says he’s her husband. She says she doesn’t have one. He tells her it’s okay if she doesn’t remember; he does. Where they met, how they fell in love and married. Sonny slips out, and Yvonne demands Mike.

Mike asks Stella if she’s ever felt really needed by someone. Stella would like to think her nephews needed her, and there are the people she helps with her social work. Mike means someone special who really loves you romantically, and you love them back. Stella thought she did, a long time ago. He asks, what happened? and she says, hasn’t she told him? He says, if she did, it doesn’t a ring bell. Not much does lately. She tells him, life happened. She made a choice, and before she knew it, that part of life passed her by and it was too late.

Willow asks Elizabeth how Aiden is doing. Nina says, Charlotte is doing great; thanks for asking. Elizabeth says, she’s not the one who was being bullied. Nina says, Charlotte apologized, and Elizabeth says they appreciate it. Nina says it could have been nipped in the bud early on, but Elizabeth thinks it’s not the teaching, but the parenting, and she’s not blaming Lulu. Nina says that leaves her and Valentin. Maxie encourages Chase to start the class, and he tells them, time to focus – on the class. Chase says they’re here to defend their safety, and that of their loved ones. He can’t discuss the ongoing case, so the best they can do is put everything aside and get going. Maxie is the only one who’s enthusiastic.

Jordan wonders if someone is trying to impress them. Curtis says, like a cat leaving a dead mouse and expecting a reward. She says they’ve been in attendance at all the events, but Curtis says, not just them. He wants to make a list, but Jordan is ahead of him. He looks at her list, and says one name jumps out. Jordan says, Laura. She was in all three places. Curtis says, clearly, she’s not the murderer. Jordan suggests the killer knows her. Curtis says, or she knows them and doesn’t realize it.

Ned says his staff isn’t the most diverse. They’re mostly white males, but not by design. They’re pivotal economic players he’s worked with for years and trusts implicitly. And his trust isn’t misplaced. They brought the city back, and it’s thriving. Laura says it’s true they did a fabulous job, and stepped up in wake of the earthquake, but it’s a closed circle. The problem is, they only work with the people they know. She wants to widen the circle, and if elected, will bring in people from different backgrounds.

Chase tells the group to always carry flashlight. Nina and Elizabeth bicker. Nina accuses Elizabeth of coddling her son. Chase gets louder, trying to talk over them. Willow tells Nina that she doesn’t think that’s what’s going on, and Nina says it could have been avoided. Chase asks for volunteers, but no one gets up. He asks Willow to help demonstrate the bear hug, and how get out of it. She thanks him, since she was about to tell a mother where to shove her opinion.

Sonny returns, and Mike asks if he told Marcus not to take Yvonne. Stella asks Mike to get their coats. Sonny tells her that he talked to Marcus, but he doesn’t know how much luck he had. Yvonne showed up, and asked for his dad. He’s concerned about taking Mike back, and Yvonne not being there. Stella thinks the sooner he gets there, the sooner he can make new friends.

Jordan says, Alexis, Lulu, Chase, and Curtis says, a lawyer, a journalist, and a cop. Jordan says the killer likes to make a display in the most public manner. Curtis says, the deeper they dig, the less he’s thinking it’s about the two of them. Jordan agrees, and says the only thing in common is the missing driver’s licenses. There’s one other thing though. More specifically, one other person – Ryan Chamberlain.

At the meeting, Daryl gets up. He lives in the Charles Street district. He asks if Ned thinks his background as a businessman is a positive or a negative. Like Ned might say, negative. Ned thinks economics drive everything. New business raises the standard of living and property values. If they don’t have businesses, nothing else works. Lulu asks if Laura wants to add anything. Laura admires Ned as a businessman, but says government can’t be run like a business. It’s not for profit. It should be people coming together to decide how to best serve the public’s needs. Money is a factor, but not everything. Nor should it be. Everyone applauds. Not-Doc raises his hand, saying he has more of a statement than a question. He thinks it’s high time he made his intentions known.

Nina says the class is about owning their power, not worrying about if what might have been said is hurtful. Elizabeth says it is hurtful, and Maxie wonders how they expect their kids to get along if they can’t. Nina says she’s teaching Charlotte not to hold herself back. Elizabeth says she can do what she wants, but not with her son. Chase calls up Nina, who tells him, so far, it’s been very informative.

Not-Doc says it’s no secret his marriage is ending, but he has nothing but boundless respect and admiration for Laura. She gives selflessly to both her family and community. Ned is a fine man, but when it comes to the future of their city, it will be his honor to vote for Laura. He hopes they all do the same. Laura says it’s a lovely gesture, and she’d like to return it. If elected, she’ll become an advocate for mental health. She’s already made a tour of Ferncliff, and will do more. What’s the point of an influential position, if you can’t throw the spotlight on conditions that need it? She wants to be visible, and use her visibility for good.

Jordan tells Curtis the third victim was making a documentary about Ryan. He wonders if it’s a copycat, and she says anything is possible. She reminds him of another case they worked on, where all signs pointed to a mugging, but it turned out to be an insurance situation. Red herrings everywhere. She thinks it might be the same, where it seems to be one thing, but it’s another. She gets a call from forensics, and tells Curtis there hasn’t been a single trace of the documentary found. Curtis says they’re trying to remove any mention of Ryan. They’re not trying to repeat the murders, but top them. The killer is competing with a ghost. Jordan has all the Ryan Chamberlain files, and says, it’s time to bring the ghost back to life.

At Turning Woods, Mike can’t wait see his girl, but Sonny says it might not be possible. Yvonne and Marcus walk in. Mike guesses they should say their goodbyes, but Marcus says, no goodbyes. Mike wonders about the luggage, and Marcus says he was set to take her home, but spoke to Mike’s son. Or rather Mike’s son spoke to him. He said, when you love someone, you do the far better thing. Yvonne isn’t leaving. Sonny smiles. Marcus, not so much.

Mike gives Stella her gift, a big soft scarf. Marcus tells Stella that he wishes she’d known Yvonne before the Alzheimer’s. She would have loved her. Stella knows she would have; Marcus married her. She must have been an incredible woman. He says he used to see glimpses. The doctor warned him that he would lose her, but it’s one thing to hear it, and another to live it. Well-meaning people with well-meaning advice aren’t worth a damn. Mike tells Stella, it’s for cold winter nights, and puts the scarf on her. He tells her, Merry Christmas, and they hug.

Curtis tells Jordan it might be easier to resurrect a ghost than pour through the records. She knows there’s a link. Something in there links to that terrible bastard. She says, wait, and he asks what she found. She says it’s what she didn’t find.

Chase shows Maxie how to shake him, and strike palm to nose. He tells them practice with partners. Maxie tells him she needs to get back to the others before they start pulling hair. Chase laughs, and she tells him, it’s not funny. She might have to consider homeschooling. He shows her another move. He tells the class, it’s one thing be prepared, but if you’re not scared, you’re not paying attention. That doesn’t mean they’re a victim though. Make it nasty. Focus on eyes, ears, knees. Nina says, and the family jewels. Chase asks, who wants go first? This time, it’s everyone.

Lulu thanks everyone, and the meeting breaks up. Ned tells Laura, may the best man or woman win. Lulu says she was awesome; she had them eating out of her hand. She’s proud. Laura thanks not-Doc for the endorsement, and he says he meant every word. She says, so did she. If elected, Ferncliff, and every place like it, is on her list. Lulu has to get back to the office, and Laura needs to meet Sonny at the gym. Not-Doc watches them leave, and follows.

Chase says that’s all the time they have. Maxie asks if they’re seriously ready to kick predator ass, and he tells her that he wouldn’t mess with any of them. He tells the class, same place same time next week. Maxie tells Nina that she needs to keep as far away from Elizabeth as possible. Nina replies that Elizabeth said she has no restraint. Maxie says she doesn’t. Willow tells Chase, it was empowering; she enjoyed it. Chase asks if they could maybe go on real date soon, and she says, how about now? After all that drama, she could use a drink. He says, there was drama?

Marcus tells Stella that he owes her an apology. She asks, what for? and he says when she tried to intercede for Yvonne, he lashed out. He’s said she gave up the right to an opinion on his life a long time ago. She says, it’s true, but he says he wanted her to hurt the way he was hurting. It was unfair. She says, none of this is fair. She knows he was doing what he thought best. He says Stella always does, but part of him will always wonder what would have happened if he’s taken Yvonne home.

Mike introduces Sonny to Yvonne. She loves his dimples, and Mike says, everybody does. Sonny tells Yvonne that his father thinks the world of her. Yvonne says, the world is a big place, but Mike says, not really. If you’re lucky, you can hold her in the palm of your hand.

Jordan asks what’s missing from Ryan’s victim? and Curtis says, no driver’s license. Is it something he did? She says it’s not listed in any files, and he says, it could be a coincidence. They keep looking. Jordan says, no license… no license. Curtis says, nothing here either. Twenty-five years ago, Ryan took a trophy. Jordan asks, how did the killer know if the police didn’t?

Laura goes to the gym looking for Sonny. Not-Doc is in the shadows. He walks up behind her while she’s busy on her phone.

In loving memory of Donna Messina, 1959 – 2018.

On Monday, Julian says he and Kim agree the relationship is over, not-Doc says there’s been something he’s been wanting to say to Laura, and Jason is more interested in Shiloh’s life before he was Shiloh.

🎨 In Case You Didn’t Know Her…

Donna Messina, makeup artist to the GH stars.

https://www.abc.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital-stars-remember-donna-messina-168796

🎢 Something Fun…

Imagine my surprise seeing Jennifer Coolidge from 2 Broke Girls in Ariana Grande‘s blooper reel. I said, whaaat? with a Polish accent. What’s Kris Jenner doing there? Your guess is as good as mine.

https://www.eonline.com/news/1001517/kris-jenner-is-the-real-star-of-ariana-grande-s-thank-u-next-bloopers-video?source=email&medium=emn-content-2&cmpid=morning-a&content=emn-news

💍 But Did She Give Back the Ring?

Finally, after two years, GG is divorced. From a seven-week marriage.

https://www.eonline.com/news/1001775/shahs-of-sunset-s-gg-gharachedaghi-is-officially-divorced-and-she-couldn-t-be-happier?source=email&medium=emn-content-4&cmpid=evening&content=emn-news

😪 Still Mourning Z Nation, But…

I love any show that Gordon Ramsay bleepity-bleeps his way through, and I was finally able to catch the latest – eighteenth! – season of Hell’s Kitchen. Keeping it fresh, this time, it was Rookies vs Veterans. Tonight, the restaurant was transformed by Italian décor, and a five-course Italian menu was served in honor of the supporters of St. Jude and the Waterkeeper Alliance. Before the dinner, the red (dudes) and blue (dudettes) teams did a blindfold taste-test. A chef from each team was given a tiny ice cream cone, and had to guess the ice cream flavor – everything from tomato to jalapeno. The ladies won by a landslide, but the best part was, when an incorrect guess was made, a member of that team had to be pelted with spaghetti, doused with sauce, or have cheese grated over them. The reactions went from merriment to horror to anger. There were several actors at the dinner. No one super famous – Chad Lowe was probably the most recognizable name – but I noticed Parker Young from The Imposters, another show I loved and lost. The red team just did not do well overall, and at one point, Gordon had to take over in the kitchen. As one contestant said, When Chef Ramsay has to cook for you, you know you screwed up. At the end of service, he told the red team to piss off. Jose got sent home, with tears in his eyes, and Gordon got to tell the remaining red team members to piss off a second time at elimination.

🐀 If, like me, you can’t get enough Gordon, 24 Hours to Hell and Back will be on Wednesday, January 9th, at 8 pm. In the preview, we saw someone in the kitchen taste the food, and then spit it back into the pot. I don’t know if it gets much nastier.

📣 Roll Call of the Dead…

The celebrities that we lost (how careless of us) in 2018. I’m sure there are more than this, but it’s a good list.

http://extratv.com/photos/stars-we-lost-in-2018/

🎤 Quotes of the Week

If you took a bad James Bond felon, and had him drunk on fireball, and then had him played by an emaciated Muppet, that would be less annoying than James Kennedy. – Stassi Shroeder, Vanderpump Rules

If you know something’s that bad, don’t put it on a plate. – Tom Colicchio, Top Chef

Don’t go into tributaries.Judge Judy, to litigant trying to change the focus

God has mercy. I don’t. – Padre Benito (Cheech Marin), Machete

The purpose of studying economics is… to avoid being deceived by economists. – Joan Robinson

I told him go on and live your life however you want to live it, but don’t bring down somebody’s else’s life.Lena McLin, R. Kelly’s high school music teacher – words to live by. Too bad Kelly couldn’t.

🎯 What Happens When You Google First Weekend 2019…

January 3, 2019 – How Hank Became Shiloh, RIP Gail, a Bit of Chef, the Joshes Return & Times Square

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

 

General Hospital

One year ago today – approximately. Lucy wonders how she’s getting out of this one.

One year ago today, minus one day – approximately. Lucy asks Maxie who in their right mind would want to visit their city. Maxie says, there are a lot of great things happening, but Lucy says, no one knows about them.

Lucy holds the bag while Sonny punches. They talk about the mayor’s duties.

At the hospital, Monica asks if the job falls to Lucy. Lucy says no one else has her verve, and she’s Port Charles’s biggest fan.

At the MetroCourt bar, Lucy tells Scotty not to dismiss her. She’s an entrepreneur. She wants to rebrand Port Charles, and make it a tourist destination again.

Alexis tells Lucy all she needs are investors. Lucy says, guidebooks don’t publish themselves. Think of the tourist dollars, and the legal fees. Sam says, and the real estate dollars. Lucy says, think of the tax base increase.

Jason walks out of the hospital elevator while Lucy tells him to dust off his checkbook. He keeps walking, and she says she’ll take that as a yes.

Sam tells Lucy that she’s not gambling her kids’ inheritance. Lucy tells Alexis that she can invest that Cassadine cash. Alexis says it’s tied up in her 401K.

Lucy tells Julian that he must see the value in the publicity. He says he just bought a bar; his money is tied up in it.

Lucy reminds Monica that she took Alan off her hands. Monica says, get out before she calls security.

Back at the gym, Sonny asks if he writes a check… Lucy says she’ll get out of his hair faster than he can say –

Maxie says, great idea. But there’s no way she can get the bucks together. Lucy says she came up with the seed money. Now she needs quotes from Port Charles’s best and brightest. She takes out a pen and paper.

Present day – exactly. Lucy looks in a travel agency window at travel guides of Port Charles.

Sonny and Mike are at the gym. Mike asks how long this is going to take. He’s perfect. Just ask Yvonne.

Stella sees Marcus at Turning Woods. She has a present for Yvonne from Mike. She says she thought about Marcus over the holidays. He tells her he spent time with his wife. Stella asks how she is, and he wonders who wants know – her or Mike?

Elizabeth asks Kim how her New Year’s Eve was. Kim says, it couldn’t been worse.

Kristina tells Sam and Jason it didn’t take long. Sam tells Kristina that she’d said to come over, and here they are. Kristina invites them in. She says, her sister is there with her… Jason. Kristina introduces them to Shiloh, who we recognize as Hank. Jason reacts, and Sam asks if she knows him. Jason says he knows him enough to know he’s lying.

Scotty sees Monica at the hospital, and says he needs to talk to her. She says she has no comment on lawsuits, but he says he’s not there to sue the hospital. He has bad news.

Julian sees Alexis sitting at a table in Charlie’s. He tells her Kristina isn’t working, but she says she’s not spying; she’s meeting a client. He asks if they don’t have fancy conference rooms for that, but she says they’re secluded, and Port Charles has a serial killer on its hands. Lucy comes in, and sits with Maxie. Maxie says she was just about to leave for a self-defense class she can’t afford to miss. Lucy says Crimson can’t afford to miss an exclusive on a book publication, by yours truly. Lucy hands a book to Maxie, and says, read it and weep – tears of joy.

Sonny tells Mike that Yvonne has good taste, but he has to remain worthy and keep up the maintenance. Exercise is good for the body, but also keeps the head clear. Mike doesn’t want to miss Yvonne’s call. He’s sure she would have called by now. They should stop by Turning Woods after they work out. He wants to see how she liked the present.

Stella tells Marcus that she heard about Yvonne leaving the facility unattended. She’s sorry. Marcus appreciates her sympathy, but the apology isn’t necessary. She had nothing to do with it. Stella says she can’t fathom what went through his head when Yvonne was missing. He says he pictured her alone in the streets, not knowing who or where she was. When a child is out like that, people stop to help, but with someone like her, people don’t want to be bothered. They don’t see her. Stella says, someone did, but he says, not soon enough to stop Mike from luring her away. Stella says Jordan told her that he’s not pressing charges. He doesn’t see how that would help Yvonne. He’s going to do right by her another way.

Monica tells Elizabeth that she’s taking the day off, and won’t be available for anything until tomorrow. She leaves with Scotty, and Kim says, something must have happened. Elizabeth says, Monica is a private person. If she wants them to know anything, she’ll tell them

Kristina can’t believe Sam and Jason came over right after she moved in. Jason says he knows Shiloh as Hank. That’s how he introduced himself to Drew. Shiloh (I guess we’re calling him this now) says he didn’t want to confuse Drew. Sam asks if he knew Drew when he was a SEAL. Shiloh says he did, and Sam has him at a disadvantage. Kristina says Sam is her sister and Drew’s ex-wife. Shiloh says, when you change your life, it’s helpful to change names too. He tells them that they’re more than welcome. Any friend of Kristina’s… Kristina tries to interject, and Shiloh tells her, stop being rude. Sam asks if he spoke with Drew, and Shiloh says he did. Drew told him about his memory loss. He’d hoped to spark something, but unfortunately, it didn’t happen. Kristina says Drew doesn’t remember anything before coming to Port Charles. Shiloh says it’s a shame. If it wasn’t for Drew’s intervention, he’d still be Hank, shallow and wasted. Drew literally and figuratively saved his life, and he intends to repay his debt.

Kim can’t find her phone, and tells Elizabeth, it’s official; she’s a basket case. Elizabeth asks if she wants to talk. Kim says there’s not much to talk about. Julian broke up with her. Elizabeth doesn’t believe it. Kim says, neither did she at first. Elizabeth can’t believe Julian thinks he can do better than her.

Julian tells Alexis that he read the article on how Kiki ‘s murder might be related to the nurse’s murder. Alexis says Jordan is about to make a statement linking the MetroCourt murder, the nurse, and Kiki. She’s surprised Ava didn’t tell him, but he thinks it’s better to hear it from her anyway. Maybe Ava’s been trying to call; he’s been preoccupied. Alexis suggests he take the day off. Call Kim and have fun. He flashes back to seeing Drew and Kim kissing. He tells Alexis, Kim is otherwise occupied.

Stella knows Marcus is angry. He needs an outlet for his feelings before they consume him. Marcus says he’s past breaking things. She says, talking has been known to help. He can talk to her, but she knows that could be complicated. She can give him a good therapist to help him articulate his feelings, and talk it through. He says there’s only one person he wants to talk to, and he’s taking the opportunity to make that happen. He’s assuming responsibility for Yvonne’s care and taking her home.

Sonny gives Mike boxing tips as they spar. Mike says if he’s forgotten a lot, but if he forgets to breathe, they’re in trouble. It’s hard to concentrate when he knows Yvonne is waiting. Sonny says he’s doing fine. Chet watches from the sidelines, and suggests Mike try rotating his hips more. It will help with his lower back. Mike tries it. Sonny says Chet knows about boxing, and Mike says he was in the service. Chet asks if the tattoos or his legs were a giveaway. Mike says, the tattoos; he’d recognize Tulip’s work anywhere. They exchange information on where they were stationed, and fist bump.

Maxie tells Lucy that she’s impressed and scandalized. A secret nude beach? Lucy says there’s so much they don’t know about their own town. She wants to share it with the world using her book. That’s where Maxie comes in. The book is no good without being in people’s hands. She needs publicity. She’s picturing an amazing, fabulous book launch; a signing like they did for Ask Man Landers. Maxie says it’s not normally something Crimson does, but she can come up with an angle. Lucy wonders if Scotty looks exceptionally rumpled today.

Sitting with Monica, Scotty asks if she wants a cocktail. She doesn’t think losing her sobriety is a way to honor Gail. He tells her that the nurse called him, saying Gail might not make it. He booked a flight to Florida, and had Serena meet him. Monica is glad he had Serena with him, but wishes she had been there when Gail died.

Shiloh says the story of what put him in Drew’s debt is in the book. Sam says he’s too young to have written a memoir, but he says, you’re never too young to share wisdom. He hands them a copy, saying, it’s a confessional; a study on the human condition. A way to look at life, and how to live it. He had to evolve and change. Hank wasn’t much of a man. Sam asks if Shiloh is, and he says, that’s for others to judge. He’s doing his best, creating Dawn of Day.

Mike tells Chet a story about how another soldier had to polish his boots for two weeks for something Mike did. Sonny says he never heard that, and Mike says, no one likes old soldier stories. Chet adds, except other vets. Mike hates to cut it short, but he has a lady waiting. He leaves to get cleaned up, and Sonny thanks Chet. He never heard Mike talk about the service. Chet says, the level of engagement isn’t unusual; it’s good to meet a fellow vet. Sonny says he hasn’t seen Chet around, and Chet says his sister lives in Port Charles. Sonny asks, what about him? and Chet says, that depends on if he finds the right job. Sonny says he knows his way around a gym. He owns this place, and he’s looking for a manager who’s knowledgeable and discreet. Is Chet interested?

Stella tells Marcus that he’s taking on great strain. He wouldn’t have placed Yvonne at Turning Woods if he thought she could be on her own. He says he’s seen the care she’s gotten, and he’ll take his chances at home. Stella says, even if she’s unhappy? Marcus asks, who said she’s happy there? Mike? Sonny? Stella tells him, Yvonne. He says his marriage is none of her business. She forfeited the right to weigh in on his life a long time ago.

Sam asks Shiloh if the house has a name, and he says his outfit does. She asks what his outfit does, and he says, anything that needs to be done. Kristina says they’re helping rebuild the houses on Charles Street, and they’ve gotten a program together. Sam says, it sounds costly, and wonders who’s funding the household. Kristina says, people pay what they can. Oscar lives there. Sam asks if Shiloh knows he’s housing someone who’s underage, but Shiloh says he’s aware of the circumstances, and found a spot for him. Sam still isn’t clear how the others afford to live there. Kristina tells her, quit acting like such a bitch, but Shiloh says, her questions are completely valid. He funds the house with his own money. Sam asks where it comes from exactly, and he says he’s a life coach. He helps people realize their full potential.

At the gym, Drew asks Curtis if he found the body. Curtis says he found a lot of blood, but not the body. Peyton was killed in the editing room, but found on the MetroCourt terrace. Drew says, after the fact, like the nurse and Kiki. Drew asks if Curtis thinks they crossed paths, but he’s trying not think about it. He asks if Drew has something more pressing, and Drew says, maybe. He’s wondering if a blast from the past is a good thing.

Elizabeth asks Kim if it’s because of Oscar that Julian doesn’t want a relationship. Kim says he thinks she can’t take care of both, but he’s not completely wrong. She’s been giving Julian a lot less attention. Elizabeth says, Oscar is fighting for his life. Julian isn’t getting enough attention, so he decided to leave and act like he’s doing her a favor? Kim says, it didn’t come out of the air. Julian saw her and Drew kiss on New Year’s Eve.

Alexis asks Julian if there’s been any news about Oscar, and he says not that he knows. She says Oscar’s current phase of therapy is ending soon, but Julian says he can’t help Kim. She asks if he something wrong, and he says Kim won’t tell him because they’re through.

Stella thanks Mike and Sonny for meeting her. Mike asks if Yvonne liked the gift. Stella tells him that she didn’t see Yvonne; she dropped it off. It wasn’t a good time for a visit. Mike says he’ll find out this afternoon when Sonny drops him off. He asks Stella if something is wrong, and she says, Yvonne’s husband is moving her out and taking her home.

Curtis says, so Hank knows Drew from the SEALS? Drew tells him, that’s what he said. Curtis asks if Drew doesn’t believe him, and Drew say he automatically doesn’t trust anyone who says they’re from his past. Curtis says he can look into it, and see what Hank is up to. Drew appreciates it. He’s worried about Oscar’s mom. Curtis thought Drew’s relationship with Kim was the one uncomplicated thing about his life. Drew says, it was. Curtis says if they had a fight, Drew would have told him, so he’s left with an inescapable conclusion – they got biblical with it. Drew says he has a one-track mind. No, they didn’t, but they kissed.

Elizabeth says Kim and Drew kissed at midnight on New Year’s Eve? Kim say they’ve been living in Oscar’s hospital room, and were talking about old times. It was nothing; a one-time thing. Elizabeth says, but that’s not what Julian took away. Kim says he saw it out of context, and nursed his wounded pride in bed with someone else.

Alexis says she didn’t know Kim and Julian broke up, and he says she’s the first person he’s told. He doubts Kim has spread the word. He doubts it’s of much of concern. Alexis says, any fool can see how much he means to her, and he says, any fool but this one.

Maxie tells Lucy that she’ll help her out, but she has to get to her class. She asks Lucy if she wants to come, but that’s a no. Maxie leaves, and Lucy watches Scotty.

Monica tells Scotty that she doesn’t know who she’d be if Gail hadn’t given her such a wonderful role model. We flash back to Gail counseling Scotty about getting married. She tells him, there’s not a problem on earth you can’t solve if you truly love each other. Monica asks where Scotty went, and he says he went walking down Memory Lane. Monica says she has a second home on that street. We flash back to Gail telling Monica, every night wasted is critical. Monica says she has some hard memories; difficult ones, but none are bad. Scotty says, Gail had a temper. When he banged up a fender, she gave him what for. Lucy approaches their table. She says from their long faces, they must not have heard she’s a published author. When she gets no reaction, she asks, what’s wrong? Monica says, there’s no easy way, and Scotty tells her, Gail passed away last night.

Mike says, Yvonne isn’t going anywhere; she’d never leave him. Sonny says, if Marcus wants take her home, he has every right. Mike says, he’ll be taking her from what she’s accustomed to. He promises not to see Yvonne again if she can stay where she feels safe and knows her place. Sonny tells him, take it easy; he’ll take care of it. He promises to fix it.

Sam asks if Shiloh is helping Kristina realize her full potential. Kristina says they already know Sam thinks her life is a mess. Does she have a problem with Shiloh helping her? Sam says Kristina works at Charlie’s, and isn’t in a position to be giving money away. Kristina accuses her of being condescending. She hasn’t been asked for a dime. Shiloh has improved his life; she can’t do the same? Shiloh says, Sam is a caring sister, but Kristina asks, then why is every word out of her mouth prove she doubts Kristina can improve her life? She stomps off, and Shiloh tells Sam and Jason, the door is always open, but maybe this conversation is best continued later. He tells Jason, keep the book. He hopes to see him again soon. Jason says he will.

Curtis and Drew spar. Drew says, it was just a kiss, nothing more. Curtis says, a New Year’s Eve thing. Drew says if Curtis wants, he can ask Kim. Curtis says, if they both agree it was nothing, why does it need sorting out? Drew says he’s getting his gloves, and he’ll sort Curtis out. Curtis says, good luck with that.

Kim tells Elizabeth, whoever she is, she’s welcome to him. Julian is all hers.

Julian tells Alexis. it’s still raw. He doesn’t want to talk right now, and Alexis says, if it’s any consolation, whatever happened can’t be worse than what happened with them. She never wanted to see him again. The point is, here she is wanting what’s best for him, so maybe there’s hope for them.

Maxie meets Chet, and tells him that his text was intriguing; an unexpected development. Chet says he might be moving back to Port Charles. She asks when that happened, and he says a half hour ago when he was hired to run this place. She says, he’ll be working for Sonny? and he says, starting tomorrow. He knows the stories, but everyone exaggerates, don’t they? Maxie says, Sonny has his good side, but if he offers a promotion to work in his coffee warehouse, say no.

Mike thinks he should have gone with Sonny, but Stella thinks it’s best to sit and wait it out. She tells him, have some coffee, and he says she could have been a drill sergeant.

Sonny approaches Marcus at Turning Woods.

Kristina asks if Sam and Jason are gone, and tells Shiloh, sorry. He asks, why? and she says they were patronizing to her and rude to him. He says he was referring to her behavior. He doesn’t get it. They didn’t bring anger; the negativity came from within her. It doesn’t have to be that way; the way she chose to deal with them. He can teach her a different way to interface with the world around her, and teach her to be free of negativity. She asks, how? and he tells her, stick around. She might find out.

Jason tells Sam at least they got a look at Kristina’s living situation and relationship with the guy running the place. Sam says, Kristina practically worships him. Jason thinks Kristina is using Shiloh’s words, not hers. Sam says, too good to be true? and Jason says, he’s neither good nor true.

Lucy tells Scotty that she’s surprised Serena didn’t call her. He says she was going to call when she got home. Lucy can’t think of a time she ever heard a harsh word from Gail, although she gave Gail plenty of motivation. Scotty says, so did he, and Monica says, her too. Lucy says Gail was bedeviled in her life by her loved ones. Monica says, and she was gracious, but even saints can vent once in a while. Lucy wonders who they think gave Gail the most heartache. Scotty says, not him, and Monica says, not her. Lucy says, don’t look at her, and they all say, Tracy. Lucy says she’s going to miss Gail so much.

Alexis comes by the table, offering her condolences. She tells them Gail had called to change her will after Lee passed. Lucy asks if it can’t wait, but Alexis says she has to get the word out. Gail’s bequest involves them, among others.

In Loving Memory of Susan Brown, 1932 – 2018.

Tomorrow, Chase instructs the self-defense class, Sonny asks Marcus to do what’s best for Yvonne, and not-Doc wants to make his intentions known.

🏥 In Case She Was Before Your Time…

A bit about Susan Brown’s passing.

https://deadline.com/2018/09/susan-brown-dead-general-hospital-gail-adamson-baldwin-1202455963/

🍲 Since Top Chef got bumped down to 8 pm, I missed most of it, but Tom thought it was the most difficult restaurant wars ever. The red team won $10K each (courtesy of Bluprint), with team leader Brian getting kudos for his chicken dish. Pablo and Nene had to pack their knives and go. IMO, both of them were a little whiny on their way to Last Chance Kitchen.

💰 The new season of Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles began tonight. The Joshes are back to plague one another, along with James, David, and Tracy.

🎊 If You Missed It…

Or were partying too hard to remember.

 

 

January 2, 2019 – Hank Meets the Real Drew, Gordon’s Back, Danielle Makes It to the Altar, New Year’s Animals, Alice & a Twist on Roxy Music

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What I Watched Today

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

 

🎉 Hope everyone had a happy and safe New Year’s Eve, and survived the night. Moving on…

General Hospital

Jordan asks Jason to take her through what happened. He says he and Sam have been questioned several times, but Jordan says they need to hear the story several times.

Ava finds not-Doc packing up Kiki’s things. She asks him not to do that, but he thinks it’s not healthy having them out all the time, and they should be put in a closet, where she has access to them. He wishes he could stay longer, but the commissioner wants to see him. Ava asks if it’s about Kiki’s murder. He couldn’t say, but tells her not to open the door unless she knows who’s behind it.

At Charlie’s, Valentin tells Nina it’s exhilarating to see her so happy. Nina says it’s easy to be happy around him. Maxie tells James that she guesses finding Sasha got someone out of the doghouse.

Kristina goes to Charlie’s to pick up her paycheck. She asks if last night wasn’t awful, and Julian says it was, but he’s thinking about Drew kissing Kim. He says, it was a dismal New Year’s Eve all the way around.

Kim tells Drew that Oscar ate an entire breakfast sandwich from Kelly’s. Drew suggests a few hours off. She has time to ring in the new year right. She says they already did that, but he thinks she should be with Julian.

There’s a knock at Ava’s door. It’s Lulu, and Ava says, let her guess. Lulu is there to chastise her for being with her mother’s soon to be ex-husband. Lulu says, actually, she’s looking for him. Ava asks if she’s going to chastise him, but Lulu says it has nothing to do with the two of them. It’s about what happened last night. She hasn’t been able to reach him. Ava asks, what happened? Lulu says the news hasn’t broken yet, but the there was another murder, and there might be a chance the killer is the same person who murdered Mary Pat and Kiki.

Jason tells Jordan that he spotted something behind the Christmas display. He thought he saw a hand or arm with blood on it. He kicked over the snowman, and the body slumped out. It was a guy in his late 30s or early 40s. Jordan asks if he touched the body, but he says, no. He called 911, and they waited for the police. She asks if they’d noticed any activity on the terrace throughout the evening. Sam says no one was out there, and Jordan says that’s all she needs know. She might need to interview them again, but they can leave. Jordan steps away to take a call, and Jason says he’ll take Sam home.

Not-Doc arrives at the MetroCourt. Curtis tells him that a man was found murdered on the terrace; a TV producer named Peyton Mills. Not-Doc says he was the man doing the project on his brother. He thought it was finished, and wonders why he was in Port Charles. Curtis says he was there to put on the finishing touches. He was found on the terrace behind a display. Not-Doc asks if he was murdered at the party, but Curtis doubts it. He got a text message to meet him earlier. Not-Doc asks if they were acquainted, but Curtis says, not really. They had a conversation one night, and Peyton had agreed to listen to his pitch for a TV show. Not-Doc says, on New Year’s Eve? Curtis admits he thought it was unusual, but didn’t want to pass up the opportunity. He agreed meet at Peyton’s rental space, and when he got there, he found a whole lot of blood, but no Peyton. Jordan says they estimate the time of death at 6:15, but Curtis says that was before he got the text. Curtis wonders why the killer would want him to discover the crime scene. Not-Doc says he knows exactly why.

Kim asks if Drew is bored with her. He says he loves her sharing memories, and she says maybe she overshared. Drew says they agreed it was just a New Year’s Eve kiss; no big deal. She says, agreed, and he tells her since Oscar is sleeping, why doesn’t she go see Julian? Tell him happy New Year.

Julian asks Kristina why she’s in a rush. She tells him that she’s moving into a new place, and wants to chip in on expenses. She asks him to keep it on the DL; she hasn’t had a chance tell her mom or Sam. Julian asks if she’s not getting along with Sam. Kristina says they’re great, but she’s been feeling sad, and wants to step outside of her comfort zone, and not ignore the signals the universe is giving her. She tells him when there’s a painful aspect in your life, you have to move on to a new system. It’s the only way to find peace.

Ava wonders what the connection is, but Lulu doesn’t know any more than that. She doesn’t know whether the killer knew them, or was choosing victims at random. Ava says it will never make sense that some sicko got their kicks by committing such horrible acts. Lulu tells Ava that she’s so sorry. Ava thanks her, and says if she needs to speak to Doc, call his office. Lulu says since they have the opportunity, she thinks she and Ava should talk about him.

Doc tells Curtis that the killer must have seen previous texts on Peyton’s phone, and lured him there to obtain evidence. Jordan gets a call, and tells them that Peyton’s driver’s license was removed from his wallet. He was also stabbed twice. The first time wasn’t fatal, but spread a lot of blood, and the second stab was straight in the heart with surgical precision. Not-Doc says, like Kiki and Mary Pat. Jordan says all the murders took surgical skills, and all of the bodies were left at gatherings. Curtis says, someone likes attention, and Jordan says, it’s official. They have a serial killer on their hands. What’s the connection, and what do the victims have in common?

Nina sits with Maxie. Maxie says, well? Nina says, it happened before Christmas, and Maxie says that explains why she hasn’t seen Nina. Nina says she saw Maxie the other day, but Maxie says it was a glorified drive by. Nina tells Maxie to just say it; she thinks Nina is an idiot. Maxie says, maybe, but it suits her. She seems disgustingly happy. Nina says she’s lucky. Who has it better than her? Obrecht breezes in, saying she’s counting her blessings too. She’s been exonerated, and can welcome in 2019 with her beautiful baby boy. She picks up James. Valentin watches from across the room.

Hank sees Drew at the hospital. He says Drew looks different. What happened to him?

Sam and Jason go back to her place. Sam apologizes, saying it’s her fault Jason had to answer questions. Jason says most of the time, it’s because of him when they’ve been interrogated. She thought he’d insist on having Diane there, but Jason says Max took her to Vegas for New Year’s Eve. Sam wonders if they’re getting married. Jason says, no; Diane thinks it could create a conflict of interest. Sam believes Diane will eventually marry him, since Max is an old fashioned kind of guy, who wants to be married, and Diane wants to give him what he wants. Maybe they’ll wait until they retire, but she thinks they’ll end up together. It’s very romantic. Jason laughs, and Sam says things are going better with Diane and Max than with them. Jason disagrees. They both know what they want. Maybe it’s time they did something about it. They kiss. Kristina walks in, and says, oops.

Obrecht goes on about how James looks like Nathan. She says she’s learned her lesson, and is going to be the best oma ever. There’s no room for cruelty and revenge in her life. She’s going to make him proud. She points out a diaper change is needed. Nina says she’ll go with Maxie. She wants to hear about Peter and Christmas. When they’re gone, Obrecht approaches Valentin, and thanks him for convincing Peter to change his testimony. Valentin tells her that he would say you’re welcome if she wasn’t blackmailing him.

Kim brings a bag of New Year’s Eve props to Charlie’s. She thought they could have a belated celebration. Julian doesn’t seem to be feeling it, and she says maybe some mimosas will put him back in the spirit. He doesn’t think it’s a good idea, and she asks, what’s wrong? She thought he understood why she had to stay at the hospital. He says he did; up until he saw her and Drew kissing.

Drew tells Hank that he’s sorry, but doesn’t remember him. Hank says, that’s crazy after everything they did together, and everything Drew did for him. Drew tells him not to take offense. Hank says maybe he’s naïve, but he thought Drew would remember him. They were tight in Afghanistan. He was an independent contractor, and they crossed paths, making the most of their free time. They played a lot of poker. Drew asks if he was any good, and Hank says he sucked at poker, but was a helluva fighter; totally fearless. Drew hopes he’s not too disappointed. He’s had to do this with too many people because he lost decades of memories. Hank says, maybe this will help, and shows him a picture of them, Drew with his old Jason face. Drew doesn’t remember, but Hank wishes he could. Drew changed his life.

Kristina tells Sam and Jason that she’s sorry she interrupted whatever she interrupted, but at least they know it’s the last time. She’s moving out. She has a room at the group house where Daisy lives, and where Oscar is staying. Sam respects Kristina’s decisions as an adult, but she’s concerned about Kristina’s safety. There’s a psycho out there. Kristina says she can’t live her life in fear. Sam says she just feels more comfortable knowing Kristina is upstairs. Kristina says the group house has locks too, and it’s not like she’ll be alone. Sam asks how well she knows these people.

Ava tells Lulu that she thinks it’s best not to discuss Doc. Lulu asks if she’s noticed anything off, but Ava says she hasn’t known him long enough. He’s been kind, compassionate, and wonderful to her. Lulu asks if there’s been any erratic or unusual behavior, and Ava says she gets it. In order for Doc to be with her, he must be having a breakdown. Lulu says she didn’t mean it that way, and Ava tells her, get to the point or get going. Lulu says looking at his behavior from the past, the few people who know him well, know him to be steady, stable, and to help others. Ava says he’s helping her get through the greatest tragedy any mother can experience.

Jordan says, a potential link. The killer has shown surgical precision, but Peyton doesn’t fit the pattern of the previous victims. Curtis suggests the killer resented the spotlight on Ryan Chamberlain, and wanted it for themselves. Jordan says, one serial killer outdoing another. Curtis says the bodies were all put in public places on holidays. Not-Doc says, there’s one other common denominator. Mr. and Mrs. Ashford.

Curtis wonders how the killer would have known they’d be at The Floating Rib. Not-Doc says they were led to the evidence to taunt them. Jordan says, taunting the police commissioner, and her detective husband. Curtis doesn’t think the killer just wants to clown them, and not-Doc says it’s more than their humiliation. The killer chose holidays or celebrations. That indicates they have trouble with a relationship to traditional festive events. Maybe they had a childhood trauma on a holiday or gathering. They’re antisocial, and isolated. They envy the experiences that bring joy to others. Jordan asks if he thinks the killer will strike again. Not-Doc says, it’s not a question of if, but when.

Ava tells Lulu that she and Doc understand each other. Lulu asks if she’s aware of his psychiatric history. Ava asks if she means his practice, and Lulu says, he had a complete breakdown. He became violent, and stalked and kidnapped Felicia. He recovered memories, and his past is complicated and dark.

Kristina is just about packed, and Sam thinks maybe she should take a minute before moving in to tell her why she and her new friends are drawn to each other. Kristina says they want to be part of something bigger than themselves. Sam asks how they’re doing that, and Kristina says they do a lot of volunteering. Daisy volunteers at her grandpa’s daycare center. Sam asks how they afford rent, and Kristina tells her, it’s like a big family. Everyone shares and pitches in. Which didn’t really answer that question. Jason asks if anyone is in charge. Kristina says Shiloh is the community outreach leader, but he keeps everything egalitarian, and teaches them not to rely on others. She looks up to him. Sam asks if that’s for any particular reason. What’s he like? There’s obviously something she likes. Kristina says Sam thinks she’s sleeping with him. Sam says, is she?

Valentin asks if Obrecht is enjoying her freedom. She says she’s thrilled to be back with her family. Nothing else matters. He tells her to remember who made it possible. Don’t put him in a position where he regrets it.

Kim tells Julian that she and Drew were just talking, and got nostalgic about a New Year’s Eve years ago in San Diego. The kiss meant nothing. Julian says, not to him. Seeing them together did something. She’s says she’s sorry, but he tells her that he found a way to move past it. He slept with someone else.

Hank tells Drew, it got rough, but they had good times. Hank hit the bottle too hard, but Drew got him through the dark days. He wants to return the favor. Drew appreciates it, but he’s good. He says his son is in the hospital, and Hank asks if there’s anything he can do. Drew says he’s very kind, but his son is getting the best treatment, and Kim is a doctor there. Hank asks if Kim is his son’s mother, and Drew says, he never mentioned her? Hank says, no, and never mentioned a son either. Drew says he just found out he had a son, and Hank says if there’s anything he can do, don’t hesitate to ask. Hank owes him. Drew says he doesn’t remember, and either way, let it go. Hank says he can’t do that. Drew saved his life.

Kristina tells Sam, it’s not like that. Sam apologizes, saying Kristina seems taken with him. Kristina says Shiloh encourages them to do their part to make the world a better place. It’s not like she’s jumping into bed with everyone. Sam says her mind just went there, and Kristina asks if Jason assumed the same thing. He says he assumed nothing, but understands why Sam is concerned. Kristina suggests they check it out. They’re one big happy family, and it’s what she needs right now. She leaves, and Sam tells Jason that she needs him on this, and don’t say Kristina is old enough to make her own decisions. Jason says Kristina told them they can visit. He thinks they should.

Drew tells Hank the Navy gave him his records, but most of what he did was protected. Hank says he has no idea that he’s a hero? He rescued Hank from an IED. He was accompanying Hank and some other on a supply run. An IED hit his jeep, and Drew was in the convoy behind him. Hank got hit hard, and the jeep went up in flames. Bullets were flying everywhere, and Hank thought he was a goner, but Drew ran back and grabbed him. He pulled Hank out, and dragged him into a ditch to hide. He stayed with Hank, and protected him; he kept Hank from bleeding out. He’s sitting there because of Drew. After that, he quit partying, and got his head on straight. He looked for Drew, but he was gone. He didn’t believe Drew went AWOL, and asks, where did he go? Drew has no idea. He’d love to hear more about their time over there, but his kid needs some tests. Hank tells him to call or text when he’s ready. He says one more thing – and I totally miss what he says. He tells Drew that he’s wanted to say it for a long time. What is it? I love you? We’re married? I’m a robot? What? I cheat later, and look at another recap. It say he told Drew thank you. Geez, it seemed deeper than that.

Kim asks Julian if it was Alexis, but he says, it doesn’t matter. Seeing them together made him rethink what’s going on. She knows she hasn’t been very present. Julian says her son and his father are her priority right now, as it should be. He doesn’t want to get in the way anymore. Kim says he’s giving up because her life is complicated? He says, maybe she can’t see it, but he’s a distraction. He can’t let it go on for either one of their sakes. Kim says so to make sure it’s over, he jumped into bed with someone else? He says it was a bad night, but he doesn’t regret it. It made him see he has to let her go, so she can focus completely on Oscar. She says if he wants to break up, why doesn’t he have the guts to say it? Don’t sleep with someone else. Say it for her. He’s not a martyr; he’s a coward. Julian says she knew being with him was a risk, but he has to end it. She tells him, go to hell, and walks out.

Valentin suggests Obrecht might be more comfortable outside of Port Charles. Maybe she should go back to Switzerland. She says, and leave her beautiful grandson? Fat chance. She’s staying. He says unless he’s tempted to cause a tragic accident. She tells him that their relationship is contingent on her good health. Should she meet an untimely end, she’s arranged for three letters to be delivered about how he passed Sasha off as Nina’s daughter. One to the DA, one to Anna, and one to Nina.

Lulu tells Ava it’s no surprise that Doc has been acting strange; his brother is all over the news. Ava says she’s the reporter who’s been covering it ad nauseum. Lulu says she thought Doc could handle it until he left her mother. She’s not telling Ava what do or how to live her life, but suggests she keep her eyes open. Not-Doc walks in, and Lulu says she came by to ask him some questions about the murder. He thinks the commissioner would be a better source. Lulu says she’ll probably hear from Jordan soon, and checks her phone. She says, it looks like Jordan is ready to make a statement; she should go. Before she leaves, she tells Ava that she meant what she said. Ava asks not-Doc what Jordan said, but he wants to know what he walked in on. Ava says that Lulu came by ask him questions about the murders, and he asks if that’s all. She says Lulu did have some choice words about him ending things with her mother, and alluded that he had some kind of breakdown in his past. Not-Doc says, it’s true. He did

Not-Doc tells Ava that he doesn’t talk much about it. It was a painful time in his life. She says Lulu mentioned it had something to do with his brother. He says, yes, and his mother. Ava asks what his mother did, and he says, made terrible mistakes. Ava says Lulu also mentioned there was something dark in his past. Not-Doc suggests Lulu mind her own business. She doesn’t understand him any more than Laura does. They’re trying tear him and Ava apart, and they can’t let them. Ava says they won’t.

Lulu asks Jordan what she can share with her readers. Jordan is still preparing her press release, but she can tell Lulu something off the record. They’re dealing with a serial killer who will stop at nothing to get attention. Curtis tells her, there’s no saying who the next victim will be.

Obrecht agrees to Valentin’s terms. He tells her that Nina is his life and happiness. She brings light to his days, but he can thrive in darkness. If she chooses to reveal his secret, he’ll have nothing left to lose, and every reason to make her pay for it. Obrecht asks what she’d have to gain, and says she’d be happy to keep his secret.

Nina wonders what’s going on those two, and Maxie says, nothing good.

Kim goes back to the hospital. Drew says, that was fast, and asks, what’s wrong? Kim says Julian broke up with her. She doesn’t want to talk about it. She just wants to visit her son.

Sam and Jason arrive at the house where Kristina lives. Sam says it’s nicer than she thought it would be. She hopes the people inside are too. Kristina answers the door. She says it didn’t take long, but she’s glad they came; it’s good timing. She introduces them to Shiloh. Jason is like, whoa, because it’s Hank.

Tomorrow, Maxie thinks something is a great idea, Scotty needs to talk to Monica, and Marcus tells Stella that his marriage is none of her business.

🍴 Gordon Ramsay has returned with another season of 24 Hours to Hell and Back, airing Wednesdays at 8 pm. I missed tonight’s episode, because I was catching up with…

👰 The Real Housewives of New Jersey. Danielle got married in Bimini, but it wasn’t nearly as exciting as I’d hoped. The highlight was Danielle getting weird with Marge because the guys took Marty out for some serious drinking, and Joe #3 drunk talked that Danielle was after Marty’s money. Follow that? Yeah, it was stupid. Marge had enough, and was about to go home, but they made up. The ceremony happened – loved the dress, a strapless, lace mermaid number – but we didn’t even see a reception. Back home, Melissa’s son Joey was making his First Communion. There was a HUGE party, and I got mesmerized by the buffet. Jennifer’s brother was having an engaged to be engaged party, which sounds like something a teenager would have, but is apparently some kind of Turkish tradition. Also traditional, is the potential groom’s family dressing the potential bride for the party, although her family pays for the actual event. Of all places, they went to Jovani, and I could hear Dorinda yelling in my head. Milania seems like a real pita of a twelve-year-old. Teresa felt she was acting out because of her father being in the slammer, even though she’s been a handful since birth. It was suggested singing and rapping might help, so Teresa took her to the professionals. Let’s put it this way. The kid will not be on American Idol any time soon. Jackie wrote an article referring to Jennifer’s children being spoiled, and blah-blah-blah about Jennifer’s humongous mansion, saying there was a bouncy house bigger than her house, which I hope is an exaggeration. While I’m not crazy about Jennifer, I agreed with her that Jackie had no right to be saying what she did for the world to read. She didn’t name names, but even if I read it, I’d know who she meant. She could have at least given Jennifer a heads up. No one wants a second-hand surprise. Jackie is making the same mistake a lot of new Wives make. They start stirring the sh*t too early in the game, before they even know anybody. It’s possible it’s due to Andy prodding them with a pitchfork, but Gina and Emily did the same thing this season on the OC Wives. Jackie tried to act like the article was complimentary, but since she didn’t want to disrupt the First Communion party, Jennifer told Jackie the conversation wasn’t over. Later, Jackie told Melissa and Marge, if you don’t want her to write about it, don’t do it. Great. Does this mean no one will even be able to take a crap this season? Next time, Jackie confronts Teresa. Should be interesting.

🐕 🐈 Because Animals Are the Best…

11 Animals That Are So You On New Year’s Day

https://www.cuteness.com/3377/10-animals-that-are-so-you-on-january-first?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=010119&c_crid=image4

🐍 Go Ask Alice…

He might live with his mom, but he’s still cooler than Colt will ever be. Looking good at 70 too.

https://radaronline.com/exclusives/2018/12/alice-cooper-lives-with-his-mother/?utm_source=email&em_hash=72048a93bc8188334dc1071a32fe8f3b

I don’t like to mix politics and rock’n’roll. I don’t look at Bono, Sting and Bruce Springsteen as political. I look at them as being humanitarian. I’ll contribute to anything humanitarian. Helping people who can’t help themselves. But when musicians are telling people who to vote for, I think that’s an abuse of power. You’re telling your fans not to think for themselves, just to think like you. Rock’n’roll is about freedom – and that’s not freedom.Alice Cooper – Amen to that!

💋 A New Year Treat…

Oscar Issac and Carla Gugino. These two are just luscious.

 

December 28, 2018 – Another New Year’s Eve in Port Charles, Z Final Battle, a Few Farewells, Ten Whole Quotes & Down Z Lane

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

 

General Hospital

Michael thanks Ned for holding the fundraiser. Ned says it’s a win-win. They’re raising money for pediatric cancer research, and get to ring in the new year. Kristina tells Michael that it’s said the person you spend New Year’s Eve with, is the person you’ll spend the most time with in the new year. He tells her not to threaten him. She guesses he’d rather be with someone else. Chase walks in with Willow.

At the hospital, Julian finds Kim alone in Oscar’s room. He thought she’d be celebrating with Oscar, but she says he’s with Josslyn in the media room. They’re going to watch the ball drop. He says he can stay, but she tells him to go to the fundraiser. It’s a worthy cause, and she’d like to think one of them is celebrating. He tells her to say the word, and he’ll be back at midnight. He leaves, as Drew comes in. Kim asks Drew if everything is okay. He tells her that Jason stopped by to warn him about someone from his past.

Jason arrives at Sam’s place. She doesn’t think anyone will recognize him in a suit. He says no one will miss her; she looks amazing. She does, in a simple, sleeveless, low-cut black sequined number. She says she was going to blow the party off, but it’s a fundraiser for pediatric cancer research. She thought Jason would want skip it and just write a check. He says he is writing a check, but realized, sometimes you just gotta show up. Sam says, sometimes you do, and they kiss.

Ava is about to make a drink, and sees the box of Kiki’s things. She walks over to it instead.

In bed, Jordan tells Curtis, now he’s done it. He says, they both did. Jordan tells him, now, they’re going to be late. He says, it’s New Year’s Eve. Parties don’t start jumping until after ten, and they’ll be fashionably late. She says, that’s how TV stars do it, and he says he’s not a star yet. She says, soon, and he says, providing the producer doesn’t flake on their meeting tomorrow.

Not-Doc puts on surgical gloves, and sneaks into Peyton’s office.

Sam tells Jason that she should power down. He asks if she’s gotten any more emails. She says, one. They reached out and asked if she wanted help, and Sam said no. She hasn’t heard back. He says someone did a lot of research into her past. He doesn’t think they’re giving up. She asks if he thinks they should try to find them, and he says it’s her call. She knows that; she’s just asking his opinion. He thinks if she engages, she’s giving them what they want. She says he’s right, and she’s going to refuse the bait. It’s weird, knowing someone is out there, digging into her past; it’s so random. He tells her that he ran into someone today. She says, someone mysterious from his past? and he says, not his; Drew’s.

Drew tells Kim that the guy thought Jason was him. His name was Hank, and he said he knew Drew from his military days. She doesn’t remember him introducing her to a Hank in San Diego. He says Jason gave him Hank’s number. He guesses it’s up to him to do something about it. She asks if he thinks he’ll contact Hank.

Lulu walks into the fundraiser with Laura. She says it’s what Laura needs. A night on the town, no campaigning, and no sign of Doc.

Willow thanks Chase, and apologizes about not joining him on Christmas. He says it was a last minute invite, just in case she was free. He asks if she wants a drink, and she’s surprised he’s not asking her where she was. He says it’s up to her to tell him. She nearly bumps into Julian, and Chase asks if he remembers Willow. We flash back to her saying that Julian convinced her to give up her son. He tells them to come back to Charlie’s some time for shots on him

Ava looks through Kiki’s things. She reads, New Year’s resolutions 2001. Get a puppy; train puppy to high-five; see Destiny’s Child at the Garden. Ava says, that was a great concert. She continues reading. Learn how to do a backflip – she remembers that trip to the ER – learn about art from mom. Ava cries.

Not-Doc comes out of Peyton’s office. He looks around. No one is there. He closes the door, and wipes it. He says he’ll see if anyone is looking for Peyton tonight, and checks Peyton’s phone. There’s a message from Curtis, asking if they’re still on for tomorrow.

Jordan tells Curtis that the commissioner can’t be late for a charity fundraiser. He says, not even for her husband? and she says, that’s right; he’s her husband. He says he’ll remind her every day. He gets a text, and says Peyton moved up his flight home, and wants to meet tonight.

Jordan asks if Peyton knows it’s New Year’s Eve. Curtis doesn’t suspect he cares, and Jordan says it’s rude. Curtis says he’ll tell Peyton to forget it. She says, and miss his chance at fame? He says, it’s a long shot anyway, but she says it’s a big deal; go. She’ll get her commissioner schmoozing out of the way, and they can just be newlyweds on New Year’s Eve by the time he gets there. He promises to make by midnight. She says he’d better. She wants him to kiss her when the clock strikes twelve. He says, tonight, and every night, for the rest of their lives.

Jason tells Sam that the guy came up to him and called him Drew. Jason told him that he was Drew’s brother, but there was something about his reaction that didn’t feel right. It was just off. He made a point of telling Jason how he knew Drew, and said Drew knew him as Hank. Sam says, it’s weird, but maybe that’s how he talks. Jason says Hank was working him the whole time. He wanted Drew’s information, but Jason took his. He stopped by the hospital, and gave Drew a heads up. Something about him doesn’t feel right.

Drew asks Kim how he can be sure who Hank really is. He’ll have to go through an explanation; tell a long convoluted story to someone who might be nothing more than an acquaintance. Kim says maybe he’s a friend, but she doesn’t remember. He likely knows Drew from a different point in his life, and might show Drew a different aspect of himself. It could be a window to his past. Drew says he could just have his whole past back, but it’s not worth losing the life he has with his son and daughter.

Valerie sees Kristina and Michael at the fundraiser. They exchange pleasantries, but Valerie seems a little cool. Michael congratulates her on becoming detective, and asks if she wants to join them. Valerie says she’s just going to mingle, and will see them later. Michael asks Kristina if she and Valerie aren’t friends, and Kristina says she thought so. He asks if something happened.

As they get to the party, Sam tells Jason it’s his last chance to bail. Jason says they told Olivia they were doing it, so they’re doing it. Sam says no one benefited more than they did, and Jason says they’re lucky Danny is healthy now. Sam wishes all kids had the same outcome. Julian arrives, and wishes them a happy New Year.

Kim tells Drew it’s not that dissimilar than when he gave her a chance. She was a stranger too. Drew says she also turned out to be the mother of his son; that’s a big difference. She’s not just part of his past, but the present and future. He’s grateful she came to Port Charles, and he could be a part of his son’s life. Kim wishes she’d found him sooner; they would have had more time. He tells her, don’t do that. That’s the past, and they should go from where they are now. He says at least Josslyn got Oscar out of the room. Kim says he has no appetite, but she’s keeping his spirits up. They’re on their own until midnight. He hopes she can stomach the poor company. She thinks she can cope. He asks if they ever spent New Year’s Eve together, other than being stuck in traffic last year. She tells him, you could say that. New Year’s Eve is when they conceived Oscar.

Michael greets Willow and Chase. Willow says she hasn’t met his date, and Michael and Kristina are both all, no, no, no. Kristina tells Michael that for a captain of industry, he stinks at making introductions, and Michael introduces her. Kristina asks how Willow knows her big brother. Michael says since he’s a captain of industry, he spoke to her class on career day. Chase says he wowed the crowd with science tricks, and Michael says, Chase brought a dog. Chase says he borrowed Thor from the K-9 department. Willow excuses herself to see one of her student’s parents. Kristina asks Chase to tell her more about Thor.

Scotty sees Laura, and tells her sorry about the break-up. Doc didn’t deserve her in the first place. He doesn’t know how to tell her this, but Doc might be… She tells him to breathe, and says she knows Doc is sleeping with Ava.

Not-Doc arrives at Ava’s apartment. She makes them both a drink, and he asks what she’s doing. She tells him, making a list of New Year’s resolutions. Against her better judgement, the first one is to drink less, but it’s still 2018, and there’s a few hours before she has to cash that check. She’s resolved to stop crying about things and people that don’t matter. She’s finished living up to other people’s standards and expectations. The only standards she cares about are her own. Last, and most important, she resolves not to let her remaining daughter has get too close. The more she lets someone into her heart, the more she seems to hurt them.

Olivia tells Jordan that marriage agrees with her, and asks where Curtis is. Jordan says he’ll be by later, and Ned asks to speak to her a moment. Olivia makes herself scarce, and he asks if Jordan has read the article by Lulu linking the murders. He was under the impression that link was under wraps. She says it was, but Lulu had been in the squad room. He asks if they let journalists wander around, and Jordan says Lulu has certain privileges being Dante’s wife. Ned understands how persona and professional life can blue, but to avoid a full-scale public panic, Lulu’s privileges need to be revoked. Across the room, Laura raises her glass to Ned. He returns the gesture.

Julian tells Sam that he’s there to support Oscar and Danny, and wonders if they can set aside their differences. Sam blows him off, saying she and Jason are there to have a good time. They go into the party, and Alexis tells Julian it’s probably not a good idea to pretend nothing is wrong. He says he’s made headway with Lucas and Leo, and was hoping to do the same with Sam. Alexis says he hasn’t put in the work yet. He says Sam hasn’t let him, and she tells him to respect that. She asks if that’s why he came; to connect with Sam. He says, yes, but Kim asked him to. She thought one of them should put in an appearance at the fundraiser. Alexis says she probably thought New Year’s Eve at the hospital wouldn’t be fun for him. He says he offered to stay. Alexis says she was being selfless. She was trying to be responsible for her son and him. At the same time, she probably wants to spend the evening with someone who cares about her.

Kim tells Drew, they found out he was going to be deployed after the holidays, but they’d both known it could end any time. Neither one of them expected it to mean so much. To be honest she didn’t think she was strong enough to be with someone who was put in danger again and again. They did decide to remain friends, and agreed to enjoy every moment together – and they did. On New Year’s Eve, they watched they watched the fireworks over the water, went back to her place, and opened champagne. Drew says he’s got it. She says, afterward, when she was lying in his arms, she debated telling him how she really felt; that she loved him. Drew guesses she didn’t say anything, and she says, it didn’t seem fair. He was being shipped out the next day, and a few weeks later, she found out she was pregnant. He knows the rest. She didn’t want to tell him in a letter, and his missions were classified. Time went on, and she rationalized it was fine to leave everything as it was. She’d raise Oscar on her own. Sometimes she fooled herself into thinking she was succeeding. Drew thinks she did, and says Oscar is a great kid. She says that’s just who Oscar is. She had to make all the decisions alone. He says she’s not alone anymore, and kisses her.

Ned tells Sam and Jason that he thought Olivia just had wishful thinking, believing they’d be there. Olivia says she knows how much the cause means to both of them. Jason gives her a check. She looks at it, and says, very generous. It will do a lot of good for a lot of kids. Sam tells he that they were just saying how lucky they were, and she wishes all the kids would be as fortunate as Danny.

Lulu tells Willow that she and Valentin know Charlotte was bullying her cousin Aiden. She made sure Charlotte apologized, and she knows what she did was wrong. She hopes that settles things. Willow does too, but she’ll continue to monitor the situation.

Scotty says Doc is a good doer, but since Kiki’s death, he’s been plastered to Ava’s side. Laura says she wouldn’t wish that kind of grief on anyone. Scotty knows how it feels, but hates Doc and Ava together.

Not-Doc says he’s never been a fan of resolutions or time tables that set us up for failure. He likes setting real attainable goals. His goal for her is to help her mourn, but not for the rest of her life. His goal on New Year’s Eve is to help her realize what she is; a force to be reckoned with, and the strongest person he knows. She deserves to be treated better than she has been, and given more than the world has given her. She doesn’t think that sounds attainable, but he says he’s going to give it to her. And God help whoever tries to stop him.

Curtis goes to Peyton‘s office. He knocks, but there’s no answer. He opens the door, and calls to Peyton. He walks into the darkened room, and trips over something. He sees blood on his hand, and says, son of a bitch.

He turns on the lights and looks around blood everywhere screen sees Felicia

Ava tells not-Doc, those are some goals. Is he setting himself up for failure? When he says that, it almost makes her forget everything she’s lost, for just a moment. He’s not asking her to forget, but move forward. And he wants her to know he’ll be beside her, no matter what the future holds. She says, with him next to her, a future seems possible.

Chase asks Willow if she’s ready to usher in 2019. She thinks it’s going to be a good year. He does too.

Olivia says, less than one minute. She thanks them for the money raised, and everyone applauds. Ned says, it’s almost time, and they count down. At midnight, confetti falls, everyone uses their noisemakers, and there’s a lot of kissing. Auld Lang Syne plays. Michael sees Chase kiss Willow. Kristina looks at Valerie, who looks away. Jordan answers her phone, and says, so much for making it back by midnight. Curtis says she has to get there, and gives her the address. She asks what’s wrong, and he tells her that he thinks there’s been another murder.

Not-Doc kisses Ava.

Through the window of Oscar’s hospital room, Julian sees Drew kissing Kim, and leaves.

Jason and Sam go out on the terrace. She says she knows he’s hit his maximum tolerance for socializing. He says there’s good people in there, but she’s the only one he wants to be with. They kiss.

Kim tells Drew the party in the media room is winding down, and Oscar got to kiss the girl he loves at midnight. Drew says, on the subject of kisses, and she tells him, don’t think twice. They let nostalgia get the best of them. At least the person who remembers did. Drew asks if they’re good, and she says, of course.

Julian comes back to the party, and we hear everyone’s LOUD feet dancing. Alexis thought he went ot see Kim, and he says, long story. His phone rings. It’s Kim, but he doesn’t answer. Michael asks Willow where she’s going, and she says Chase got called in on assignment. He says the party is still going on. She doesn’t have to leave, but she tells him, after midnight, she turns into a pumpkin. She says, happy New Year, and gets in the elevator.

Not-Doc and Ava watch the fireworks. Ava says Kiki loved fireworks. She thought there was something magical about them, but there isn’t any magic left in the world. He says, there is, and promises they’ll find it together.

Police tape is now across Peyton’s office door, and the police are combing the place. Curtis tells Jordan that Peyton said he wanted to meet him there. The door was closed, but not locked. He looked in, but there was no sign of him, just the blood. She says it appears someone was attacked, but they have no way of knowing if it’s Peyton. Chase is doubtful whoever it was made it out alive, but they should still check the ER. Jordan is afraid the killer moved the body.

Jason and Sam watch the fireworks. He gives her his jacket. There are some fake snowmen on the terrace, and he suddenly kicks one over. A dead Peyton falls out from behind it.

Lots and lots of end-of-the-year credits. The next new show will be on Wednesday, January 2. On Monday, according to the guide, a rerun from December 31st, 1997 will be aired. I’ll definitely be checking that out. On New Year’s Day, it’s football and more football.

Z Nation

When we last left, Estes had come into the lab to find Sun’s brain gone. He says, find them and kill them all.

Roberta, George and Red sneak out. Red wishes they could have given Sun a proper burial. George says she died for a reason. Roberta tells Red to stash the brain where it’s safe, and no one can find it. If anything happens to them, get it to Murphy. Red leaves, and Roberta tells George not to let it get to her. George says she was just remembering putting the posters up with Dante. Everyone who helped is dead now. Sun too. She wonders what if they win, and there’s no one left? Roberta says there are still a lot of people with the will to survive, including her. Keep her head in it. They sneak off.

Still at the lab, Estes tells a guy to be careful. The blood samples are from all over, and God knows what’s in there. He and his colonel look at a map. The colonel tells him the militia is still assembling. Every able bodied volunteer has been employed as well. Pandora is holding Sun’s hands, and dancing around. Estes calls her over, and asks about the information she got from George. She says it took convincing, but she found George’s weakness, and she gave it up. Human that she is. She points to a road intersection, and tells Estes that the talkers are in a clearing near there. He asks, how many talkers? and she says, all of them. He tells the colonel that they have to hit before George has a chance to warn them, and before the talkers hit them. The rules of engagement haven’t changed. The colonel understands.

When they’re alone, Pandora asks Estes, why so tense? She’s all over him, and tells him, forget about that sick, crazy circus. It’s just him and her. She drags him away, as Sun watches with lifeless eyes.

George and Roberta continue to sneak around. It’s empty everywhere. Robert says George’s eye is hurt, but George says she’s okay. Roberta doesn’t think so. George looks okay, but she has to clear her mind of hate. There’s no room for mistakes. This is about justice, not vengeance. She wonders what happened to Pandora, and George says, what was supposed to happen. They could have gone the distance. Roberta suggests they find Kaya.

Kaya is still behind the vending machine with Citizen Z, who says they’re almost out of soda. She says, just a few modifications to the drone images they intercepted, and they’re out of there. CZ says, otherwise, he’ll have to get more change.

George can’t believe they’re not. Roberta says, they are voting, but not at a ballot box. She points the way to the vending machine. George asks if she thinks they have diet. They avoid some soldiers who are looking for them, but Pandora and Estes have gotten to the vending machine first. Estes says he wants them alive, and Pandora says, save the mercy for her. They open the machine, and the hidey-hole is empty. CZ startles Roberta and George by coming up behind them. He says they got out just in time. Kaya is safe with JZ. What now? Roberta says they stick to plan.

Doc tells 10K, this is Roberta’s most half-baked plan yet. He asks if 10K is feeling lucky. 10K says, no, and Doc says, good. It will take more than luck to pull this off. 10K hugs Doc, and Doc tells him, get going. Murphy tells the talkers, Sit! Stay! and they listen better than my dogs ever will. He wonders how long they have to keep hidden, and Addie hopes they’re not waiting much longer. Murphy says, someone’s coming, and Addie tells the talkers, get ready. A lone zombie ambles up the road, and Murphy says, it’s a rando; looks old school. Addie says she’ll take care of him. She twirls her Z-whack, and knocks the zombie down. He rushes her, and she does it again. She smashes his head, and tells the talkers, come and get it. Murphy says, that should hold them for a while.

George and Roberta see the people going in to vote. George says, it’s a low turnout. CZ says, people are afraid to travel, or they’re dead. Roberta says, a yes vote, is a vote for martial law. CZ says, the people have given up on Newmerica. They don’t care who’s in charge, as long as they’re safe. Altura will take control. Roberta says, it’s up to Addie and Doc to get in position. We see Cooper check in to vote. Apparently, he’s not dead. Or maybe he is. Hard to tell these days.

Addie tells the talkers, now that’s over; everyone look alive. Murphy says, they’re not just dead; they’re dead citizens. He tells Addie, they’re sitting ducks, and she tells him, don’t try to be himself; just stick to the plan. He tells her that they didn’t live this long by sticking to the plan.

Doc says, zero hour, and flips some switches on a board. He says, let slip the dogs of war, and gets into a makeshift bunker inside a tent.

Estes radios the colonel, who tells him, there’s been visual contact with the talker camp. He says, they haven’t been spotted, and they’re not where he said they’d be. Estes says, executive orders; show the meaning of mercy, and end this now. His men get in place, and aim their guns. The colonel says they’ve been spotted. No prisoners. Charge! Well, we know how that worked for Custer.

His joint smoking interrupted, Doc ducks when he hears the shooting. He gets a bullhorn, and tells everyone, go. Pandora’s assistant moves forward with Estes’s men, who shoot up everything. They get to a camp, and shoot up the tents. They realize there’s no one there, and go inside the tent where the noises are coming from. They see it’s Doc making shooting noises through a bullhorn. The colonel tells him, put it down, and he does. Pandora’s assistant takes him outside. The colonel asks where everyone else is, and he says, there’s no one else. Just him.

Estes radios for Mercy One. He’s waiting to hear a talker free future has begun. The colonel says there’s been a setback. It’s a decoy: there’s no one there. It’s a set-up. Pandora says, impossible. She made sure George was telling the truth. The colonel says it’s just an old man with a bullhorn. Estes tells him, find out if he knows where the talkers are. The colonel says he’ll tell, right before he mercies him. Estes tells Pandora that George lied to her. Pandora says, you can’t trust anybody these days.

The colonel asks Doc where the talkers are. Doc says he might want to save his bullets. The colonel is suddenly splashed with blood, and Pandora’s assistant falls. 10K says, nine thousand, nine hundred, and ninety-nine. Doc finishes, in case that happens. 10K shoots more of them. Doc says that’s his cue, puts on his shades, and runs. Estes tells the colonel, operation mercy. But he’s not answering because he’s being eaten. Estes hears zombie munching sounds, and wonders, what the hell happened? He asks Pandora what happened to the talkers? Gate 3 calls on the radio, saying he better get down there. He needs to see this.

The guard asks a large group at the gate to state their business. Murphy says they’re here to vote. Estes says they need two forms of ID. Pandora says, and a pulse. Estes says it doesn’t look like many likely voters, and he’s not sure Murphy qualifies. Murphy says what matters is, it’s hard to mass mercy when they’re still talking. Estes says the militia will be back soon. Behind him, George says they both know that’s not true; they’re not coming back. Red says, not as humans. George says, the cycle death can end now, and Pandora says she makes it sound like that’s a good thing. Roberta says, it’s over. Open the gates, and let them in. They just want be with their loved ones. Estes says they have no idea what they’re doing, and Pandora tells him, shut up. She shoots, and runs. Estes takes off, and Roberta and George tell Red they’re going after them. Roberta says they have fifteen minutes to vote, and the crowd rushes in.

They chase Estes and Pandora through a building. Estes and Pandora split up, and Roberta goes after Pandora, while George follows Estes. Roberta runs goes up the stairs. Pandora shoots at her, and Roberta shoots back. Pandora says, bitch. Roberta continues to chase her, follows her to another staircase, and goes down. Pandora is out of bullets, and jumps down to another landing. Roberta doubles back, and sees Cooper in the hallway. He says, hello, Roberta.

He knows it’s a surprise. She says she can’t do this now. He tells her that he came long way; hear him out. Murphy arrives, and asks Roberta if this guy is bothering her, drawing his gun. Roberta tells Cooper that she’s glad he’s alive, but she has to go. She jets, and Cooper tells Murphy that he doesn’t want trouble. Murphy says Roberta may want him alive; him, not so much.

Roberta finds George near a door. George says Estes is inside. Roberta wonders where Pandora is. George says, on three, and opens the door to another staircase. Estes is on a platform at a computer. He greets them, welcomes them to the beating heart of Altura, and invites them up. He’s going to show them what all the fuss is about. Energy and security to build a new world upon. There’s a pool below him, housing lithium. George says, all that fuss for a battery? Estes knows been hard on her, but learning you’re wrong is part of growing up. George says they’ll see who’s teaching who. Roberta says, he’s taking lithium from the talkers for the battery, and he says, so what’s left of the humans can exist. They’ll have reliable storage. At night, when the solar power is out, they can have light, communications, and an electric fence. George says, while others starve. Estes tells her, desperate times mean hard choices have to be made. They can’t be left up to a traumatized mom. Change always involves collateral damage. Darwin had no heart. She says, neither does he. He says it’s not about him; it’s about the future of humanity. He staged the attacks. They were a necessary evil. The way things were, the lithium would be used up in less than three years. Then what? Roberta says, in the meantime, they can find an alternative. He says, it will be too late. By the time a vaccine can be made, the lithium will be used up. And what will be left? Feral talkers and no electricity. Roberta says he paid for the battery with human souls. Estes says, it’s a small price pay for security. The talkers are freaks; a mistake. George asks if that’s what he tells Pandora; how romantic. Estes says, she’s a useful tool, but in the end, she’s a mumbling corpse, like the rest of them. Roberta asks what’s going to happen when she tells everyone. Estes says they won’t believe her. She says, no, but they’ll believe him. She asks if CZ got that, and CZ says, every word. Roberta tells Estes that it’s being broadcast live. Estes doesn’t believe her, and she tells CZ, crank up the volume. Estes says, this is insane, and hears his voice echo back at him from the speakers. Roberta says he’s right. It is insane. She tells him to go back and tell the talkers they’re a mistake. Pandora appears, and says, a mumbling corpse? Is that how he sees her? He says he didn’t mean that way, and she asks how did he mean it? Roberta tells George, she’s about to get real. Estes says what he did, he did for humanity. Roberta says, there’s a new definition of humanity. Estes says, what happens when the dead are all that’s left? What happens when they trade their future for the talkers? What happens when the last vestige of humanity turns to dust? George says he can’t just get rid of them. He says, they’re rotting bags of putrefied meat. They need to cleanse the earth of the talkers before being dragged down to their level. Pandora says, is that what he thinks? and Estes says she’s different. Knife in hand, she says, is she? She slides the knife up his body to his chin. She thinks maybe if he was a talker, he’d feel differently about this whole dead thing. She holds the knife under his chin. The filming drone hovers around them. She tells it, buzz off, and gives it a whack. It falls into the pool, and the feed dies. The crowd watching goes, aww! Estes keeps saying, please, and Pandora tells him, stop whining. She hates it when he whines. It’s so whiny. She had big plans for them. It’s a pity. She stabs the board instead of him, and laughs, as sparks shoot out of it. Estes says, if the lithium overheats it will kill everyone in Altura. Pandora tells him, George was right about one thing. Humans and talkers are equal. They all deserve a final mercy in the end. Estes says, there’s only a few minutes before the coolant wears off. He runs to one of the pipes.

George faces Pandora. Pandora asks if George thinks she can mercy her. George asks if Pandora changed her outfit. Pandora says she always likes to look her best before a big fight. Does she like? George says, no. Pandora takes a fighting stance, and does a samurai yell.

Alarms sound. George and Pandora rush each other, and George slips under and around Pandora. She says she doesn’t want to mercy Pandora, and Pandora says, really? Not even after she chopped up poor, helpless Dante. George says Pandora’s life isn’t enough to pay for his, let alone the others. Pandora says, Boo. Hoo.

Roberta asks Estes what he’s doing, and he says, stopping a catastrophe. It’s going to explode if he can’t get the pumps working; help him. He and Roberta try to turn a valve, but it’s not budging much. Pandora wields a knife in each hand. George knocks one to the floor. Estes tells Roberta the lithium will cause an uncontrolled burn. Roberta grabs a metal pipe, and wedges it between the spokes of the valve, using it to turn the wheel. Steam hits Estes in the face. Pandora grabs George by the throat.

Estes tells Roberta he needs to use a hose as a bypass. She helps him to hook it up. Pandora looms over George, laughing, and squeezing her throat. She says George’s humanity is what makes her weak. She should be happy; she’s going to see Dante soon. George gathers her strength, and throws Pandora off. A screen flashes, pump failure. Pandora tells George they should do this more often. George says she talks too much, grabs her, and slams her to the floor. Pandora gets ahold of a knife, but George knocks it into the water. She cracks Pandora in the face. Her wig goes flying, and her mask hits the floor and shatters, because it isn’t made out of very practical material. She looks like a burn victim. Pandora asks if she disgusts George. She tells George to look at her. George spins Pandora around, and throws her, saying she doesn’t get off that easy. She holds Pandora over the water. Pandora says she could have been George, and George dumps her into the pool, where she fries.

Roberta thinks it’s working. Estes takes out a gun. Roberta tells him, it’s over, but he says she’s ruining humanity’s last chance. He can’t let happen. He shoots at her, but the bullets have no effect. George grabs his gun from behind. Roberta sees holes in her clothing, and says, no blood. She and passes out.

She wakes up on a couch. Cooper is there. She says, not a dream? and he says, no. She feels herself where she was shot, and asks where everyone is. Cooper says, voting, and Estes is in custody. She asks, what about Murphy? Cooper says he and the devil are cool. When Murphy understood why he was there, he brought Cooper to her. He asks how she’s feeling, and she says, nifty. What did he want to tell her? He says, back at the farm, when he found her. He was operating on her, and she bled out. There was nothing he could do. She died. She says, I was dead this whole time? He tells her that she came back as a talker, but different. Maybe it was the black rain she was exposed to; he doesn’t know. Roberta says, damn apocalypse. He didn’t want to tell her. He thought it might change her, and he didn’t want her to change. Roberta says, he came all this way to tell her? He says he wanted her to know. Does she forgive him? She asks if he forgives her for locking him in the trunk. He tells her everything he said still applies. It was from the heart. Roberta says what they had together was real. It was good, and so worth fighting for. She just doesn’t know how much fight she has left in her. She just found out she was dead. Cooper says she doesn’t look dead. Roberta asks if he voted. He did, but he’s not a joiner. He said his piece, and now he’s going to go, but he wants her to know, if she ever wants to dance or hear good music… She says she knows where to find him. He tells her, goodbye, and they kiss.

He puts on his hat. We hear a little Western background music, and he leaves. Roberta says, goodbye.

Doc makes an announcement, saying, ladies and gentlemen, living, dead, or somewhere in between. The polls are officially closed. 10K shows off his new, kind of Edward Scissorhands thing, and Doc tells Addie, chicks dig a man with a hook. Addie says she’s not touching that. She asks what Doc is going to do now. He says he might mosey back to the water keeper, and see if Kurek needs help with the dam. What about her? Addie says she’s going to continue wandering the earth, doing random good deeds. And killing zombies with her Z-whack. Doc says, that goes without saying. George tells Roberta that she’ll feel better when it’s over. Roberta says, once they ratify the constitution, then what? George says, elect people who will uphold it. Roberta says, people like her? and George says, maybe, and those who want to help. Red brings the case with Sun’s brain to Murphy, saying that somebody said give it to him. Roberta says, she said he’d know what to do with it.

Doc introduces George, who’s announcing the results. Roberta tells her, they’ve come too far. George walks up to the front. I note that she changed her outfit. She starts to talk, but the bullhorn gives feedback, so she continues without it. She says she was going to give a speech what feels likes a lifetime ago. Before the bombing. It was a different speech then, for a different world. So much has changed. She knows she has. CZ films her. She says, one thing has always remained. She has the same belief in democracy and the rule of law. The crowd applauds. She’s lost a lot of friends getting there; they all did, but she gained some new friends too. Friends who taught her the meaning of loyalty and courage, and showed what can be done when you have each other’s backs, and what can be accomplished when you believe in one another and carry each other forward, no matter what the obstacles. There were so many times she thought this moment would never come. But here they are. The moment they’ve been waiting so very long for. She says, let’s get to the results. She opens the envelope, looks at what’s inside, and smiles. Everyone cheers. Roberta smiles back at her.

Murphy sits outside with the case. He opens it, sees the brain, and says, Sun Mei. He takes the brain out, breaks off a piece, and eats it. He says, That’s it. Of course. He laughs.

That’s all folks.

😭 It was all I could do not to burst out bawling. Even if Netflix picks up the show, it’s at that point where it would even be doubtful that they could get everyone involved back, and no matter what, it won’t be the same. Write to your congressman… or something.

😘 A Fan Goodbye…

https://fanfest.com/2018/12/26/z-nation-canceled-by-syfy/

🎭 A Cast Goodbye…

https://tvseriesfinale.com/tv-show/z-nation-cast-members-thank-fans-of-the-cancelled-syfy-series/

🙋 Farewell For Now…

This is where I’m supposed to stupidly say, see you next year, but I’m not going to do that. Sunday night (December 30th), Bravo will be airing a new episode of The Real Housewives of New Jersey at 9 pm. It’s titled Bridezilla of Bimini, so it sounds promising, but I’ll most likely be hypnotized by 90 Day Fiancé. Have a happy and safe New Year’s Eve. Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do. Take that however you choose.

👄 Quotes of the Week

Nonsense and deep thought, with a little Christmas sprinkled in.

Being normal is vastly overrated. – Aggie Cromwell

I’m not invading you with privacy, or something like that. – Leida to Tasha, who’d said Leida was invading her privacy, 90 Day Fiancé

Death is coming to Brooklyn. And it’s got buck teeth and a cotton tail. – Snowball (Kevin Hart), The Secret Life of Pets

You couldn’t hear a dump truck driving through a nitroglycerin plant. – Uncle Lewis (William Hickey), Christmas Vacation  Disclaimer: Bill Hickey was my acting teacher for several years; however, this movie was not indicative of what was learned in class.

For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. – Isaiah 9:6

The best way to spread Christmas cheer, is singing loud for all to hear. – Buddy (Will Ferrell), Elf

I’m an alcoholic now. I did a lot of stuff that wasn’t cool, and I came here because the program says I have to make almonds. – Robbie (Noah Mills), 2 Broke Girls

You look like a Black Will Smith or something. – Bob Stone (Duane Johnson), Central Intelligence

I’m not afraid of storms, for I’m learning how to sail my ship. — Louisa May Alcott

Christmas is a necessity. There has to be at least one day of the year to remind us that we’re here for something besides ourselves.Eric Sevareid

💀 And Have Fun We Did…

ZN9