Jan5

January 4, 2023 –Bad Endings In the New Year, PSA For Pet Owners, New Year Soap, Andy’s Shots, Roll Call 2022, Best In Chic, What They Did & Better

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Laura thanks Ava for letting her stop by; she knows it’s late. Ava says, Laura told her it’s important, and invites her in. She asks, what’s up? and Laura says she’s worried. She has to find a way to help Nikolas. Ava says, and Laura came to her? and Laura says, Ava probably knows him better than anyone else now. She’s hoping Ava can shed some light on why Nikolas is afraid. What does Victor have on her son?

Dante says, Miss Prince? and introduces himself. He says, they’ve met before. Can she tell him what happened to her? She looks around, and asks, what happened? He says, she’s being treated for hypothermia, and she asks, why? He says he was hoping she could tell him. And also where she’s been hiding out the last six months.

Spencer says he knows Nikolas claims he’s there out of concern for him, but he always has an ulterior motive. What is it? Nikolas says his motive is his family, and Spencer says, right. He tells Trina, if she doesn’t mind, he’d like a moment alone with his father. They step away, and Trina tells Elizabeth, that seemed intense.

Nikolas says, finding Esme like that must have been a shock, and Spencer asks Nikolas to level with him for once. Is his psycho ex-girlfriend carrying Nikolas’s kid?

Cameron is closing up Kelly’s, when Scotty comes in, and asks what he’s doing here. Cameron says, working, and Scotty asks why he’s not out and doing what young people do on New Year’s Eve. Cameron says, technically, it’s January 1st, and Scotty says, his point exactly. Why isn’t he out with that beautiful girlfriend, bringing the New Year in with a bang?

Dex and Josslyn bask in the afterglow on the couch, and Dex asks how she is. She says, from one to ten, eleven, and he says, him too, and kisses her. He says he meant what happened on the dock. Someone tried to kill her tonight. She says, oh, that. She feels lucky and uneasy, but somehow here with him, she feels safe. He says, she is, and kisses her.

Obrecht says, Britt’s dress is torn. Is she bleeding. Britt starts to walk, and drops to the floor. Obrecht asks, what’s wrong? and Britt says she guesses she had more to drink than she realized. Obrecht says she’s calling for help, but Britt says, don’t. Obrecht says, obviously, something is wrong, and Britt says, it’s too late.

Josslyn says, this wasn’t the plan, and Dex says, it’s not like he never thought of it. She says she’d just try to push those thoughts down, and he asks, why? She says, he works for Sonny, and she’s never going to be okay with that. All those lies she used tell herself, that Sonny was actually an honorable man and his behavior was justified? She’s never going to tell herself those lies again. Her phone dings, and Dex hands it to her. She sees a text from Cameron: NYE re-do when I’m off work? Can’t wait to see you.

Cameron says, it’s Scotty’s lucky day; it’s the last one. He puts a plate in front of Scotty who says, a brownie. He’s not going to touch it yet. He texted his schnitzel to come join him. Cameron says, he didn’t ring in the new year with Dr. Obrecht? and Scotty says he was at Britt’s birthday party, but got a call from a client, and had to go. Cameron asks if someone spilled champagne, fell, and broke their hip, and Scotty says, collarbone. Cameron says, and they’re suing? and Scotty says, it will keep him in brownies until 2024. Cameron says, sounds like he should work for Scotty, and Scotty says, if Cameron every needs any money or anything… Cameron says he’s fine, but Scotty says, Cameron has to squeeze in some fun. It’s true what they say; life is short.

Obrecht tells Britt not to be defeatist. It’s not a good look on anyone, especially her. It’s only a scratch. How did this happen? Obrecht cleans the wound, and Britt says, Obrecht knows her; two left feet. Obrecht says, the Huntington’s? and Britt says, it definitely doesn’t help. She suggests getting Britt home, cleaned up, and in bed. No MetroCourt. She wants Britt to stay with her. Britt says, Obrecht never made a toast, but Obrecht says she thinks Britt’s had enough for tonight. She can barely keep her eyes open. Britt says, humor her. It’s her birthday. Obrecht picks up a glass, and says, to many more nights like this, draining the glass. She says she’s been thinking a lot about wasted time lately, and Britt says, her too. Obrecht says she wasn’t affectionate enough; too focused on molding Britt. Too focused to appreciate her, and Britt was unable to see the plain truth. Britt’s life was a miracle, and she robbed them both. She never held Britt enough, and never held her brother at all because she gave him up. She didn’t even get to hold him at the end. Britt coughs up blood, and Obrecht says, Britt’s not drunk, and this isn’t Huntington’s. What’s happening to her?

Laura tells Ava, Nikolas led her to believe he was in pretty big trouble. He wouldn’t tell her what it was, but he did say his Uncle Victor could either save him or ruin him. Does Ava have any idea what he was referring to? Ava flashes back to Esme falling off the parapet, and says she wishes she could tell Laura, but as they both know, Nikolas doesn’t tell her everything. Laura says she’s sorry Nikolas hurt Ava. What he did to her was unforgiveable, but she remembers a time when the two of them shared everything. Ava says she thought so too, but now she’s questioning everything, even the happy moments, and Laura says, she knows for a fact Nikolas regrets his choices. If she’s being perfectly honest, she has a few regrets too.

Nikolas tells Spencer to keep his voice down, and Spencer says, Nikolas thinks he can keep this a secret. When Esme wakes up, she’s going to blow Nikolas out of the water. He doesn’t know how pregnant she is, but he knows it’s definitely not his, which leaves Nikolas. They see a nurse go into Esme’s room, and Trina wonders if that means she’s awake.

The nurse tells Esme that she’s paged the doctor, and he should be here soon. Esme asks for water, but the nurse says she’s not cleared for that yet, and Dante says, stop stalling. Esme says she’s not stalling; she’s freezing. The nurse says she’ll get another blanket, and leaves. Dante asks if Esme wants him to repeat the question, calling her Miss Prince. Esme asks why he keeps calling her that.

Nikolas sees TJ headed for Esme’s room, and asks how she is. TJ says, that’s what he’s about to find out, and goes inside. Nikolas tells Elizabeth, this is unacceptable. What’s the point of being on the Board if no one tells him anything? Elizabeth tells him to come with her, and they leave. Trina says, Spencer’s dad is really invested in Esme, and Spencer says, she has no idea. She asks what they were talking about, but he says, nothing important. She says, it didn’t seem that way, and he says, that’s the thing about Cassadines. Our conversations always seem fraught. It’s part of the mystique. They should be celebrating; their plan worked. They lured The Hook out of hiding by pretending to be together. She says she’s not so sure they did.

TJ says, any nausea or headache? but a shivering Esme shakes her head. He says, what about tenderness? and she says, no. TJ asks the nurse to order him a fetal heart monitor, and an OB consult with an ultrasound. Esme asks why he’d need that, and he asks, when was the last time she felt the baby move? She says, baby? and looks under the blanket. She says, oh my God. I’m pregnant?

Ava asks what regrets Laura could have, and Laura says she hates that her son couldn’t be a better husband to Ava. Ava says, that’s his fault, not Laura’s, and Laura says, maybe. But looking back, she repeatedly encouraged Ava to stay with Nikolas. Maybe she shouldn’t have done that. Ava asks how Laura could have known that. Nikolas, and Nikolas alone, is at fault for the demise of their marriage. So she doesn’t want to hear about regrets; not Laura’s anyway. Laura says she doesn’t like to think of herself as naïve, but she thought Nikolas’s relationship with Ava could make him a better man. Ava says she thought so too, and for a while she thought it did. She guesses they’re both naïve.

Josslyn hurries to get dressed, and Dex tells her to slow down, but she says she can’t. She has to talk to Cameron. He says, it’s after midnight, but she says she can’t let Cameron go into the new year thinking they’re something they’re not. It’s not fair. He asks if she regrets it, and she says, this? No. But it was wrong for her to give in to her feelings for Dex while she was still with someone else. She owes Cam the respect of a conversation. He’s not just her boyfriend, he’s… Dex says, her best friend. He gets it. She says she’s about to break Cameron’s heart, and Dex starts getting dressed. She asks what he’s doing, and he says, there’s a killer on the loose, and she’s out for Josslyn. He can’t let her go by herself. She says, Cam can’t see him, but he promises to stay out of sight. She almost died tonight. She’s not going anywhere alone.

Cameron asks if Scotty saw Josslyn at Britt’s party, and Scotty says he didn’t, but he told Cameron that he had to leave early. Cameron says, it’s just that he texted her, and hasn’t heard anything back, and Scotty says, they’re good, right? Cameron says, yeah. They’ve just been super busy; him with soccer, her with volleyball. Now that it’s winter break, they’re going to be spending a lot of time together. As soon as he’s done here, he’s going to do a New Year’s do-over. Scotty asks what he’s doing? Go grab her.

On the phone, Obrecht says, please hurry. She’s having an anaphylactic reaction of some kind. Obrecht goes back to Britt, and says, because of the holiday, the closest ambulance is ten minutes out, but they’ll be here. Britt says she was coming back for Obrecht, and Obrecht asks if she’s in pain. Britt shakes her head, and says she wanted more time with all of them. Obrecht says she’ll have more time. She’s just having some sort of immune response. Britt says she didn’t want to die alone, so she came back. Now it’s close. Obrecht says, she’s not making sense, and Britt coughs. Obrecht says she’ll drive Britt to the hospital herself, but Britt says, they won’t make it. Obrecht asks what she means. The hospital is a few blocks away, and she’s an excellent driver. Britt says, the scratch is from a hook. She’s been poisoned. Obrecht can’t save her.

Outside Kelly’s, Dex says he’ll be here if Josslyn needs him, and she says she doesn’t know how she’s going to do this. Inside, Scotty tells Cameron to seize the day, and Cameron says he’s going to do it. Seize the day. He starts to leave, when Josslyn walks in. He says he literally was just about to look for her, and she says, they need to talk. Ugh. No guy ever wants to hear those words.

Ava laughs, and says she was thinking how horrified Laura was when she discovered Ava was her new daughter-in-law. Laura says, Ava wouldn’t be her first choice, and Ava says, who could blame her? Laura’s his mom. Laura says, Nikolas doesn’t see it that way. He thinks she oversteps and judges too harshly. Maybe he’s right. Ava says she wishes she’d been the kind of mother Laura is. If she had been able to set aside her anger and sadness, and had been there for Kiki… Laura says, no. Don’t do this to herself. Look how much she’s there for Avery. She’s setting a great example by showing Avery that she’s not accepting less than she deserves. Ava thanks her, and not just for saying that, but for always being so kind to her, despite all the bumps in this very tumultuous road. Laura says, being with Ava is the happiest she’s seen Nikolas. The fact that it fell apart… Ava says, it feels like a failure, and Laura says, divorce always does; it’s like a death. How is Ava dealing with that? Ava says, vodka helps. She’s not going to lie. She’s mad as hell at Laura’s son. Laura asks what she intends to do about that.

Nikolas says he should have put the Cassadine Island plan in motion earlier, and Elizabeth tells him, stop. That ship has sailed. Esme could be in there telling the police where she’s been all this time. Do they need to call Scotty? Should she call her boys and tell them she’s about to be arrested? He says he won’t let that happen, and she asks, how? He’s going to be in the police van next to her. He says he needs to make a call, and walks off.

TJ asks if Esme knows what day it is, and she asks, what’s happening to her? He says, she’s safe. Everything is okay, and she’s going to be fine. Does she know where she is? She looks at Dante, and tells TJ, he said this was a hospital. TJ says, it’s normal to be confused after a medical event, so why doesn’t she start by telling him her name? She says she can’t.

Spencer says he thought Trina would be thrilled they don’t have to pretend anymore, and she says, assuming Esme is The Hook. He says, not this Ryan Chamberlain theory again, but she says, think about it. Esme is pregnant; like pregnant pregnant. Can he really see her out there, attacking people, getting the best of someone like Rory or Ava? He says he doesn’t know, but he does know he’s not going to stand here while Esme ruins both of their lives. Dante comes out, and Elizabeth asks, how’s Esme? Spencer asks if she’s talking, and Trina asks if she’s awake. Dante says, she’s awake, and Spencer asks if she confessed. Dante says, she’s not saying much of anything, and Spencer says, of course (🍷). She’s probably already lawyered up, but Trina says she doesn’t think that’s it. Why isn’t Esme talking? Dante says, she claims she doesn’t remember anything.

Obrecht tell Britt that they have to move, but Britt says she can’t. Obrecht says, she has to try; the hospital will have an antidote. Britt says, no time, and coughs. She says she’s glad she came back. She’s glad she’s with Obrecht. In the beginning, and in the end. Obrecht says, this is not the end. There must be something she can do. Britt says, hold her like she wanted to hold Nathan, and Obrecht gets down on the floor, taking Britt in her arms. She cries as she says, Britt could talk before she could walk. So intelligent, so brave. Into everything. She remembers one evening she looked away for two minutes, and Britt managed to open her briefcase pulled out the contents. Fine motor skills that should have been beyond her. Britt had gotten hold of a pen and drawn all over herself. She was annoyed, but she should have kissed Britt, and smiled at how silly and wonderful she looked. She should have picked Britt up, and kissed her and kissed her, instead of scrubbing her up, and putting her to bed. Britt is starting to fade, and Obrecht says, all those kisses she never gave Britt. All those nights she put Britt to bed, and never once rocked her to sleep, her precious girl. My schone tochter. She realizes Britt is gone, and kisses the top of her head, and says, I love you, sweetheart. Mama loves you.

Scotty tells Josslyn and Cameron to have a good New Year’s, and leaves. Josslyn asks if they can sit, and Cameron says, of course (🍷). They sit down, and he asks, what’s going on? She says she really doesn’t want to do this, and he says, do what? She cries, and says, things have changed between them, and she really can’t ignore it anymore.

Laura gets her coat, and tells Ava, just for the record, she knows Ava owes Nikolas nothing. Ava says, less than that, and Laura says, but if Ava thinks of something that could help Nikolas get out from under Victor’s thumb, could Ava just tell her? Ava’s phone rings, and she says, Laura’s son has impeccable timing. She asks what Nikolas wants, and he says, what Ava wants; not to be implicated in a crime. Esme is at General Hospital. Ava asks if anyone knows she’s there, and he says, the PCPD for starters. They’re questioning her as they speak. They need to get their story straight about what happened that night on the parapet. Ava says she’s leaving now, and Laura asks, what happened? Ava says, Esme Prince has been apprehended.

Trina says, this is crazy. Esme is suffering from memory loss? Dante tells her, that’s what Esme is saying, and Spencer says, that is a load of… crap. She’s lying. Dante says he has to the update station, and steps away. Nikolas joins them, and asks what Dante said. Elizabeth says she’ll fill him in, and leads him away. She tells him, Esme claims she doesn’t remember anything, and Nikolas says, anything about the last few weeks? but she says, sounds like about anything at all, and Nikolas wonders, what the hell is her angle now?

Trina wonders if Esme could really not remember who she is, but Spencer says, no way. It’s just one more in a long line of Esme’s tricks. She says, but what if it’s not? and he says, believe him, it is.

Esme tells TJ that she’s scared.

Cameron says he doesn’t understand, and Josslyn says, they’re growing apart. He says he knows he hasn’t been around a lot. He’s just been busy with soccer, his brothers, and work. She says, it’s not that, and he says, then they’ll spend more time together, but she says, it’s not about physical distance. It’s about her, and what she feels. He asks if that’s changed, and she says, yes. He says, relationships evolve, right? They grow, and they’ve been through so much in the last year. She says she kept telling herself that too. And that if they cared about each other enough, they can recapture what they used to have. He says, haven’t they? He’s sorry; he’s confused. He thought things were fine. She says, things aren’t fine. They’ve been struggling. He knows this; they talked about this. He says he knows they talked about it, and then they… She says, they had sex. She thought it would fix things, but it didn’t. He says he thinks they need to talk about this. Think it through, and figure out a way to get back to where they were. She says, no, they can’t, and he says, that sounds final. She says, it is, and he says he sees. She didn’t come here to fix things. She came here to break up with him.

On the phone, Dante says he hasn’t figured out yet where Esme was when Britt Westbourne was attacked, but he has her personal belongings… He’ll bring them to the lab to be analyzed. It’s a bag of her personal belongings; clothes mostly, and a Christmas ornament. See if CSI can do something with it. Spencer walks over, and Dante says he’ll call them back with any updates. Spencer asks Dante, please tell him that he isn’t falling for this.

Ava comes out of the elevator, and sees Trina. She asks if there’s any news on Esme. She heard Esme was here with the cops. Trina says, she claims she doesn’t remember anything, and Ava says, nothing? Trina says, apparently. She’s surprised to see Ava here. Ava says, Nikolas called her, and Trina says she thought he would. But if Ava doesn’t suspect Esme of being The Hook, why come?

Nikolas says, there’s no way Esme has amnesia after everything she’s pulled, but Elizabeth says she doesn’t think Esme is faking it. He asks how she can say that, and she says, her best defense against The Hook allegations is that she was being held captive at Windymere all this time. She could send the police over there right now; there’s evidence all over the north tower. The truth is her alibi. Laura comes along, and says, what’s this about an alibi?

Cameron says, so that’s it? He and Josslyn are done? He gets zero say in the matter? She says she’s trying to be fair. She wants them both to be happy. He says he is happy. He thought she was too; clearly, he was wrong. He’s such an idiot. He gets up, and she follows, saying, he’s not. He says, he’s been going through life thinking everything was fine; meanwhile, his girlfriend’s miserable? She says she was never miserable. She could just feel them going in different directions, without that not same connection used to have. She starts to cry, and says she’s sorry, so sorry. She should have come to him sooner, but she’s so scared. The thought of losing him terrifies her. He says, and the thought of staying with him is worse? Does she still love him? She says she’ll always love him. She’s just not in love with him anymore. She knows that this changes things… He tells her, don’t say it. Don’t think for a second that they can be friends after this. She says, but she wants to. Please. He asks how they can do that when he’s still in love with her. He can’t just go back. Not now, and maybe not ever.

Scotty sees Obrecht on a bench at the hospital, and asks if she’s all right. She says she’s alone. She tried to protect them, and she’s still all alone. He says, she’s not alone. He’s right here. What happened? She tells him, she said she came back for me. What’s that mean? If she hadn’t come back… He asks, who? Look at him. If who hadn’t come back? She says, her Britta. She’s gone. Her little girl is gone.

Nikolas tells Laura that they were just wondering how Esme was going to talk her way out of this, and Elizabeth says, Nikolas told her that he’d talked to Laura about them. It must have been a shock. Laura says, actually, she’s mostly concerned about her grandchild; she’s concerned about all of her grandsons. She asks why Nikolas is here. Aside from being Spencer’s ex-girlfriend, she didn’t think he knew Esme all that well. He says, Esme’s action affected so many people In Port Charles… Elizabeth says, they just want to see Esme pay for what she’s done.

Ava tells Trina, Esme terrorized her. Esme set her car on fire, and left Kiki’s hospital ID next to it. Not to mention what she did to Trina. How could she not be here? Trina doesn’t think Ava will be as heated when she sees Esme, and Ava asks what that means. The nurse brings TJ the fetal heart monitor he wanted, and says she ordered the OB consult. Trina tells Ava, Esme is pregnant.

Cameron says he has to get back to work, and Josslyn grabs his arm. He tells her, don’t make this harder than it already is. Goodnight. He goes to the counter, turning his back to her, and she says, goodnight. She lingers at the door a moment, then leaves. Cameron cries, and outside, Dex asks if Josslyn is doing okay. She shakes her head, and he says he’ll take her home. Inside, Cameron yells in frustration.

Ava says, Esme is pregnant? and Trina says, and get this. Spencer doesn’t think the baby is his. Ava says, Spencer’s right, and walks over to Dante. Dante tells Spencer that what he believes is irrelevant, and Spencer says, Esme needs to go to prison whether she remembers what she did or not. Ava strides over, Trina following, and asks how far along Esme is, but Dante says he can’t give her that information. Trina asks if TJ said whether Esme was capable of physical violence, and Dante says,  that’s also privileged information that he can’t give them. Ava says, so a  wanted criminal’s right to privacy is greater than public safety? and Dante asks what she wants. Esme is being held and questioned. Ava says, she also heard Esme is saying she doesn’t remember anything. Dante had better take everything she says with a grain of salt. Does he hear her? He says he thinks the whole hospital hears her, and she says, at best, Esme is a conniving liar, who terrorizes people and torches cars. Trina says, and films people without their knowledge, and Spencer says, and frames innocent people for it. Ava says, at worst, she’s a murderer, responsible for a spree of brutal attacks, of which she’s a victim. Dante says, he gets everyone’s concern and interest, but he can’t give them answers yet. Nikolas asks if he and Ava can talk in private, and she asks when Esme conceived. He suggests they go somewhere quiet, but she says she’s fine where she is, and she asked him a question. Laura asks, what’s going on? and Ava asks if he isn’t going to answer his mother. Elizabeth says, now is not the time, and Ava asks if she hasn’t stood up for Nikolas enough. The baby Esme is carrying, it’s his, isn’t it? He says, yes, and she smacks him across the face, and says, that’s all she needed to know.

Scotty calls Nina, and tells her that he has horrible news.

Alone with Britt, Obrecht says, five years ago this month, she lost Britt’s brother. Now Britt has left her too. She can’t fathom it. A world without Britt’s brilliance, her humor, her utter determination. A world without her… Where does that energy go? It can’t just disappear. Their time together was far too short. She’s so proud to have been Britt’s mutter. To have witnessed the woman Britt grew up to be. Give Nathan a message for her. She whispers something in Britt’s ear, and kisses her forehead. She pets Britt’s hair, and says, Godspeed, Britta. Until we are all reunited.

Tomorrow, Nina knows something Maxie and Brad don’t; Ryan tells Heather to confess, so their daughter goes free; and Esme recognizes someone.

🐶 First, a PSA For Pet Owners…

This is hard to read, but it would feel wrong not to pass this info along. I’m really careful about treats I give my dogs.

https://nypost.com/2023/01/01/dog-owners-claim-treats-are-making-pups-violently-ill-and-may-have-killed-one-pet/

🧼 Onto Soap Business…

Those we lost.

https://soaps.sheknows.com/gallery/soap-opera-actors-died-2022-photos/

GH Year in Review.

GH 2022 Year In Review

How the soap stars celebrated the New Year.

See How Your Favorite Stars Celebrated the New Year!

Things in soap history that happened on January 1st.

Five Things That Happened On January 1 In Soap History

🥃 And the Beef Goes On…

I’ll bet they got wasted afterward.

https://pagesix.com/2023/01/01/andy-cohen-and-anderson-cooper-take-shots-amid-cnns-nye-booze-ban/

This is so stupid.

https://pagesix.com/2023/01/04/andy-cohen-defends-himself-against-ryan-seacrest-snub-claim/

🥀 Roll Call…

Celebrities we lost in 2022.

https://pagesix.com/article/celebrity-deaths-2022/

https://ew.com/celebrity/stars-we-lost-in-2022/

https://people.com/celebrity/celebrities-whove-died-in-2022/

👠 Fashion Fabulousness…

The best in movies.

https://ew.com/movies/best-fashion-moments-movies-2022/

The best in music.

https://pagesix.com/2022/12/10/iheartradio-z100s-jingle-ball-2022-red-carpet-dua-lipa-demi-lovato/

🎉 Gonna Have a Good Time Tonight…

How the stars celebrated.

Chris and Katherine! Jennifer Aniston! How Stars Celebrated New Year’s

https://www.eonline.com/photos/35521/stars-celebrating-new-years-eve-2022

🤸 Rolling Into the New Year Like…

Tomorrow, join me to find out what’s happening in Port Charles, and for more new year tea. Until then, stay safe, stay giving grace to yourself as well as others, and stay seizing the day, because life is short.

Jan4

January 3, 2023 – Post Party Port Charles, Pushback On Deck & This

Posted on by
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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Britt lugs her suitcase to the docks, and says, so much for concierge service. Her phone dings, and she says, ten minutes out? Ten minutes until she says goodbye to Port Charles.

On the Haunted Star, Maxie tells Obrecht, that’s it. Almost everyone went to see the fireworks on Pier 47. That was a good party if she does say so herself. No broken glass, no broken furniture; maybe a broken nail or two. Since Britt waited an entire lifetime to have a birthday party, she had a good one. Obrecht says, it was a wonderful party. She’s sure Britt cherished every moment. Maxie says, she seemed to. She’s kind of surprised Britt cut out early. Carly walks in, and says, she knew she was late, but she didn’t know she was that late.

On deck, Spencer says, he’s not complaining, but why are they back out here again? Wasn’t Trina cold before? She says, the more PDA, the better, and slides into his arms. He says, again, he’s not complaining, and she asks if he thinks people suspect they’re more than friends. He says, Maxie certainly does. Did she see how Maxie looked at them? And he saw a few doubletakes when he went inside. She says, her too. The GH crew was here, and her mom says they love to gossip. She’s sure someone will be spilling the tea about Trina Robinson getting close with the infamous, recently jailed Spencer Cassadine. He says, along with the photo that ran in The Invader, the two of them with his grandmother. She says, after the party, before they know it, people will think they’re a couple, and he says, their interest is in a party of one – Esme.

Nikolas tells Elizabeth, this is why Esme kept begging for a Christmas tree. She didn’t care about Christmas; she just wanted a diversion so she could get away. Elizabeth says, get away? and he says, Esme set a fire, and when he ran to put it out, she took off. She asks where Esme is now, but he says he has no idea.

Sam’s hot cocoa is too hot, and Dante asks why they couldn’t just go back to their place for warm cocoa. She tells him, she could say they’re out of whipped cream, the cocoa packets they have are full of chemicals and really old, or there at Kelly’s on New Year’s, the double chocolate peppermint cocoa is the best, but she didn’t want to ring in the New Year doing dishes. He says he didn’t want that either, but he did want an excuse to get them back to the house to ring in other things. She asks why he didn’t say so, when Dex walks in. Dante asks if he has the night off, and Sam tells him, happy New Year. He says, same to them, and Dante asks, how’s the job working for Sonny?

Josslyn pushes The Hook into a stack of crates, and runs, but her heel gets caught, and she’s stuck. The Hook gets up, and comes for her.

Dex says, the job is fine, and Dante says, no residual friction? Dex asks why there would be, and Dante says he saw Dex’s wrists. He knows how Dex got those bruises; Michael was very specific when he questioned him about it. There’s time for Dex to change his story if he wants to. Dex says, sorry. Can’t help him. He guesses he’ll skip the hot chocolate. He leaves, and Sam asks if Dante is trying to build a case against his father.

 Drew walks into the Haunted Star, and says, oh man, he missed it. Maxie says, that’s what happens when you show up later than late, and he says he’s sorry. He thought he could just kind of sneak in at the end. It looks like a good time was had by all. Maxie says, it was. He and Carly really missed out. He asks, what about Carly? and Obrecht says, like him, Carly also arrived late for the festivities. She’s surprised he didn’t run into her. He says he can’t speak for Carly, but he was working. He was on the phone with a couple of reporters trying to track down an important lead. Maxie says, shame on him for working on New Year’s Eve, and he says he really planned on celebrating Britt. He wanted to tell her how much he admires her. She made a crucial difference when they were trying to escape Cassadine Island. Is she still here by any chance? Obrecht says, she left, and Drew says, Obrecht has to be so proud. She raised a brave and gallant lady.

On a bench at Pier 27, Britt looks up and says, her last fireworks. She hopes they don’t delay her boat. She looks at photos of her and Obrecht from the party photo booth, and flashes back to Obrecht telling her, when Britt falters, she’ll be there to make sure Britt soars again. She’ll be by Britt’s side for everything. She remembers them saying I love you, when a boat horn sounds. She gets up, and looks out.

Trina says, you can still see the fireworks from here, and Spencer says, lucky us. They have the deck to themselves. Too bad Britt’s not here. She was really having a blast in there. Trina says, how could she not? That party was fun. He agrees, and says, it was right up Britt’s alley. It was outrageous, over the top, no apologies. She says she can see why Britt and Spencer like each other, and he says, when Britt got engaged to his father, he was thrilled. Britt seemed like the perfect stepmother. She wasn’t motherly by any stretch of the imagination; more like the world’s coolest friend. She never talked down to him. She got him. She still does. In a way, he guesses he’s glad his father and Britt never made it to the altar. It would have hurt too much when they inevitably broke up. She says, he never expects anything good to last, does he?

Elizabeth asks how Nikolas can have no idea where Esme is, and he says, because Esme made her way to the turret and she jumped. She went into the water. Elizabeth says, and she did this to herself? She just dove off the turret? He says he didn’t push Esme. She spread her arms, and she pitched herself backward. She went into the water. He went down to the shore and searched; there’s no sign of her. He doesn’t know if Esme drowned. She could be hiding on the island, or maybe she made her way to the mainland. She’s done it before and survived. Elizabeth says, but she wasn’t in her third trimester, and it wasn’t January. The harbor is freezing. She doesn’t see how Esme could possibly survive this.

Josslyn gets up, and The Hook continues to chase her. She yells for help, and struggles with The Hook, grabbing The Hook’s arm to keep it back. She screams, and pushes The Hook down, but the killer doesn’t stay down long, and chases Josslyn. She pushes Josslyn to the ground, and raises her hook. Britt flies in, whacking The Hook on the back of the head with her bag, and says, back off, bitch!

Carly meets Drew at Pier 27, saying, she got his text. Why are they here? She looks around, but he says, they’re safe. No one’s around, and he couldn’t ring in the New Year without seeing her. She says, seeing him is the perfect way to celebrate, but he says, they can do better than that, and kisses her.

Dante tells Sam, Josslyn wasn’t completely wrong about his father, and Sam says, but Josslyn has her reasons for being angry at Sonny. They shouldn’t be his reasons. He says, maybe not, but he is struggling, knowing what Sonny did to Dex. It put a spotlight on the conflict he has around his father. She says, it’s a fine line. He’s been walking it for years. Why would he change now? He says he sees how badly Chase wants the job, and remembers being like that. He wanted to be a cop long before he found out Sonny was his father. He believed in the job. He wanted to help people, and wanted to protect people. Sure, there’s all kinds of crimes and criminals, and mitigating circumstances, and intolerance and injustice, but he feels like he’s found a way to use his discretion when he can, as long as it’s within the bounds of the law. Sam says she knows. It’s one of the reasons she respects and admires him. He’s solid. He defines what it means to be a great cop. He’s strong, he’s fair, he’s passionate. He’s not a bully with a badge. He just wants justice. He says, that’s what he’s wrestling with right now. What does justice look like when it’s applied to his father?

Obrecht tells Maxie, it was kind of Drew to stop by. She appreciated the things he said about her Britta. He’s a good man, and a brave one. He and Britta stood up to Peter on Cassadine Island. He saved her life. Maxie says she tries not to think about Peter and the time she spent with him, or all the harm he caused. But he did give her Bailey Lou. She’s a joy and a miracle, and Maxie can’t regret that. Obrecht says she understands. She curses the day she laid eyes on Cesar Faison, but she can’t regret the children she had with him. Nathan and Britta were her saving grace, and she thanks Maxie for giving her daughter this party. Maxie says, Britt threw herself the party. She and Brad just helped. Obrecht says she never realized Britt longed for a birthday party as a child. She wishes she’d made better choices as a mother. Figured out a way to keep his father away from Nathan; given Britta the love and support she deserved. She squandered so much time. Now Nathan’s gone, and Britta… Maxie asks, what about Britt?

The Hook goes after Britt, who uses her bag as a defense weapon. She yells at Josslyn to run, and Josslyn starts to crawl behind something. The Hook gets Britt up against a wall, but there’s a shot, and The Hook drops her hook, and jets. Dex runs out, and Britt tells him, shoot her again, but it’s too late. He runs to Josslyn, asking if she’s okay, and Britt asks, what’s wrong with him? Why didn’t he shoot her again? Britt says she’s fine, thanks, and picks up her bag. Dex helps Josslyn up, and Josslyn says, Britt saved her life. She couldn’t have gotten away if Britt hadn’t shown up. The Hook would have killed her. She thanks Britt, and Britt says, she’s welcome, but let’s face it, they’d both be toast if it wasn’t for this guy. She’s so grateful, but wishes he’d have done the world a favor and put an end to that psycho. He says, it wasn’t a clear shot and didn’t want to risk hitting her, and Britt thanks him again. She’s about to call the cops, when Dex stops her, and says, not so fast.

Dante tells Sam, Sonny is a criminal by profession, yet walks around with this air of respectability, importing coffee, and funding hospital wings. They all walk around like they don’t know who he really is. He’s a mob boss. It’s not like he’s some desperate criminal who needs to rob a store to survive; he chose this life. Maybe circumstances threw him into the criminal world in the first place, but he’s older and wiser. He could have cut out and gone legit years ago, but he chose not to. Sam says, it’s not just about great power and ambition. Sonny can’t just resign because he wants to. It’s organized crime; Dante knows that. And Sonny fills some sort of a void. She thinks he’s a better alternative to anyone who might take his place, and many have tried. Dante says, and he would go after them and take them down, just like he was eager to take down Sonny when he first got to town. He understands where Michael is coming from right now, but over the years, getting to know Sonny his father, he’s come to love him. He can’t even fathom the thought – it keeps him up at night – of having to build a case against him one day. But isn’t that injustice? The definition of it? Applying the law to some and not to others? Doesn’t it oppose everything he supposedly stands for?

Obrecht says, she and Britt are in a much better place now, but for years, she was harsh and critical, and didn’t value Britt for the wonderful person she is. We only get one childhood, and Britta’s could have… should have been better than it was. That’s her great shame. Maxie says, that’s also in the past. It’s the love they share now that’s important. Obrecht says she’s so thankful Nathan married Maxie, and she’s glad her grandson has Maxie as his mother. She’s everything to children that Obrecht wasn’t to hers; warm, supportive, loving. She values them for who they are, not what they can achieve. Maxie says, maybe because it took her a while to get herself together. Of course (🍷) she wants to give her kids the world, but she wants them to figure out how they define success. She wants them to feel fulfilled and have purpose in their life. They have to figure out how to do that. All she can do is support them through their successes and failures, and love them as they find their path through life. Obrecht says, Nathan would be so proud to hear her say that. No wonder Nathan loved her so much.

Drew asks if Carly remembers where she was a year ago tonight, and she says, on the bridge with him. He says he doesn’t think he’ll ever forget. That’s when everything started to turn for him. She asks, how so? and he says, coming back was harder for him than he thought. Everything was just a reminder of what he’d lost and couldn’t get back. But then he wound up on the bridge and there she was. She says, pretty miserable, as she recalls, and he says, talking to her that night was just so easy, and so real. He could relax and be himself, and when he was looking into those gorgeous blue eyes, he saw a positive future was possible. That’s when he stopped being angry and started looking forward, and he’s still looking ahead. He still sees a positive future in those same beautiful blue eyes.

Elizabeth says, it’s all their fault. They pushed Esme to the brink. Nikolas says he wasn’t going to kill her, and Elizabeth asks how she knows that? She doesn’t know what Nikolas said to her, but Esme was obviously so desperate to escape, she was willing to risk her own life, and the life of her child. Elizabeth has no idea the names of all the crimes she’s committed. There’s kidnapping, and false imprisonment, and… He tells her, stop. The crimes don’t matter because no one is ever going to know.

Spencer tells Trina, he knows he’s lived a life of privilege. He has had every material thing just for the asking, so he’s not expecting her to feel sorry for him. She says, don’t worry, she doesn’t, and he says he’s not making excuses. His mother died the day he was born, and his father has been inconsistent. People have come and gone from his life, people he cared about. The only person who’s stayed is his grandmother, and she’s been wonderful, but aside from her, nothing good has ever lasted. She says, just because it’s been that way to this point, doesn’t mean it’s going to be forever. He can still find something good to hold on to. He tells her, when she says it, he almost believes it. He moves closer, and they’re about to kiss, when they hear something. They turn, and a wet, shivering Esme is standing there. She walks toward them, and Spencer asks where she’s been. What happened? She drops to the deck floor, and they run over to her. Spencer says, she’s freezing, but she has a pulse… She’s breathing, but her lips are turning blue. He takes off his jacket, putting it over Esme, and says, they’ve got to get her to a hospital. He picks Esme up in his arms.

Maxie tells Obrecht that she still loves Nathan. She doesn’t bring him up often because it hurts so much, but she thinks about him all the time. He was such a calm presence. He was never jealous, or vindictive, or manipulative. He gave her such a feeling of security; one she hasn’t felt since. Obrecht says, she misses it, and Maxie says she misses him. Maybe that’s why she rushed to fill that void, with Peter, then with Austin. Not that you could ever compare the two of them. Obrecht says she’s sorry Maxie was let down. Peter presented himself as a good man, and Maxie wanted to believe it. Austin seems like a good man, but he just isn’t the man for her. Maxie says she hopes Obrecht knows, if she ever does find the right man, that doesn’t mean she’ll forget about Nathan. Obrecht says she knows, and takes Maxie’s hands. She says she’s so grateful they’re in each other’s lives, and she, too, sees Nathan living on in their James. Maxie asks her to stop beating herself up about Britt. All parents make mistakes, and Obrecht obviously made some good choices, because Britt is awesome, and she sees how much Britt loves her mom.

Sam asks if Dante has ever covered up a crime that Sonny’s committed, and he says, never. Maybe he’s avoided asking certain questions he didn’t want the answers to. She says, and the department knows cops are human and have conflicts of interests, right? He says, of course (🍷), and every cop has to bow out of a case if they know they have one. She asks if he’s ever done that, and he says, when it was a direct conflict of interest, yeah. She says, then he’s done his duty, and he’ll continue to do so. He’s not compromising his badge by loving his father. And the fact he’s worried about it shows what a decent, responsible cop he is. He thanks her, and says she has a way of canceling out the noise, and helping him see clearly. She says, it’s a gift, and he says, one of many. His phone rings, and he says he’s supposed to be off the clock, but she says, it must be important; take it. He answers.

Britt sits on a crate at the docks, when a detective come by with some officers. He asks if she’s the one who sighted The Hook, and she says she didn’t just sight her, she fought off that maniac. He says, they’ve had about ten Hook sightings tonight. The stories in The Invader have people jumping at shadows. She says, no shadow dropped that, indicating a hook on the ground, and no shadow ruined her favorite bag. An officer picks up the hook, and the detective tells them to  bring CSI down here asap. Secure the area. They can’t have any evidence compromised. He wants more uniforms here, and keep the strollers away. This is now a crime scene. He asks Britt’s name, and asks, what happened? She says she was on her way back to the Haunted Star when she heard the sounds of a struggle. When she got here, she saw The Hook about to stab this young woman, so she whacked her with her bag. The detective says, so there was another victim? Where is she? Britt says she doesn’t know. By the time she drove The Hook off, she was gone.

Josslyn limps into Dex’s place, and he says he doesn’t know about her, but he could use a drink. He asks if scotch is okay, and she says, sure. She sits down, and he brings the drinks over. She takes a sip, and he says, she’s never had scotch before, has she? Although that’s the face I make when scotch is the only choice too. She says, there’s a first time for everything, and he tells her, take it easy. She’s still coming down off the adrenaline. She says, he saved Britt’s life, and hers. She owes him. He says she doesn’t owe him anything, and she says she can’t believe he had Britt cover for them. That maniac needs to be stopped. They should have stayed and given the police a statement. He says, and told them what? Can she identify The Hook? She says, no. They were wearing a mask, probably because Diane saw their face. He says, and he just saw her from the side, so what good would their statements be? Britt can stay and give them a description. Josslyn says, Britt didn’t shoot The Hook; he did. He says, yeah, with the gun Sonny gave him.

Nikolas says, no one knew Esme was here except him, Elizabeth, and Demetrius. He’ll send Demetrius back to Greece immediately, and it will be like none of this ever happened. Elizabeth says she doesn’t know how she let herself get pulled into this. She agreed to take care of Esme, but didn’t take her desperation seriously, and because of it, this happened. Now he wants her to cover it up, and pretend like none of this happened? No; no more. He says, it’s the only way, when her phone rings. It’s Spencer, who says he’s sorry to bother her, but he thinks she should know that Esme is back. She’s in custody. Actually, she’s at GH being treated for hypothermia, but the policed have been notified, and they’re on their way. Elizabeth looks at Nikolas.

Carly tells Drew, what she remembers about that night was, it was the first time in months she wasn’t hurting, or choking on anger and disappointment over everything that happened with Sonny. She remembers how good it was to see his smile and hear his laugh, and she was shocked she was lighting too, because she never thought she’d be happy again. Sonny broke her heart last year, and broke what was left of their marriage, and almost broke her. But she was able to come back to herself, and he was a large part of that. It all started last New Year’s Eve on that bridge. She could never imagine they’d be here right now, but she gets to do now what she couldn’t do then. He asks, what’s that? and she says, this, kissing him.

Josslyn says, the police should know to be on the lookout for a woman with a gunshot wound in her arm, but Dex says he doesn’t even know if he hit her. And if he did, she’s not going to the hospital. Josslyn says she guesses not, and he says, there’s nothing they can tell the cops that will help them catch The Hook. But they will confiscate the gun, for which he has no license. It can’t be traced as far as he knows, which is also suspicious. He takes something out of his pocket, and she asks what it is. He says, it’s a shell casing. He’s pretty sure from the trajectory that the bullet wither went into The Hook or into the water. Either way, there’s no evidence a gun was ever fired, and no way it can be tracked back to Sonny. She says, he has to protect the boss at all costs, and he says he doesn’t need problems with Sonny, especially if it gets between her and him.

Obrecht sings, Happy Birthday, dearest daughter… and Britt comes in, singing, Happy Birthday to me. She blows a horn, and Obrecht says, shatzi, you’ve come back. She runs to Britt, and they hug.

Drew says he brought champagne, and Carly says she can think of a lot of things she wants right now. Champagne is one of them; it’s just not at the top of the list. He brings out two flutes, and he says he’d like to see that list, opening the bottle. She says she’d love to show him… if they were somewhere more private and heated. He pours the drinks, and suggests they make that their New Year’s resolution. She says, resolutions are meant to be broken, but he’s good at keeping promises, and she’s learning, so okay. Let’s promise each other to meet somewhere private and warm, and really, really soon. He promises, and says, in the meantime, to celebrating New Year’s, you and me, together, last year, this year, and many, many more to come. They clink glasses, and kiss.

Maxie sees Sam in Kelly’s, and asks if she can join her. She’s waiting for her Ride Share, and they won’t be here for another half hour. Sam says, congratulations. Hers is 45 minutes out, so Maxie has her beat. Maxie suggests Sam cancel it, and share hers. Let her guess. Sam and Dante were celebrating, and he got called in to work. Sam says, that’s the price for loving a dedicated cop.

Spencer tells Trina, the baby’s not his… He’s sure. She wonders who the father could be, when Dante joins them. He says he heard they found Esme Prince. Do they want to tell him what happened? Trina says, Esme found them; they were on the Haunted Star. Nikolas and Elizabeth come out of the elevator, and Spencer says, Britt’s party was over, and they were still hanging out talking. They heard someone approaching, and looked up to see Esme standing there, soaking wet. Dante asks if she said anything, but Trina says, she just looked at them and passed out. Dante asks how Nikolas and Elizabeth knew to come, and Spencer says he called. Esme had attacked Elizabeth, and he thought she should know she didn’t have to worry anymore. Nikolas says, they were together when Elizabeth got the call, and he wanted to be here for his son. He puts his hand on Spencer’s shoulder, but Spencer doesn’t look at him. The doctor comes out, and Dante introduces himself, asking if there’s any information on Esme’s condition. The doctor says, she’s being treated for hypothermia. Otherwise, there are no signs of injury. She’s resting comfortably, and should wake up in no time. Dante says, she’s a person of interest in an investigation, and asks if he can see her. The doctor says, certainly, and they leave. Trina suggests getting something to drink, and Nikolas tells Spencer to go with Trina. He’ll text if there’s any changes. Spencer says he’d like to believe Nikolas is here for him, but he always has an ulterior motive. So what is it?

The doctor gives Dante a plastic bag, and says, it’s everything Esme had with her. Dante sees the Christmas ornament, and asks if she had this with her. The doctor says, they took everything off her and bagged it; it’s standard protocol. The doctor leaves, and Dante tosses the bag onto a table so it makes a bang. Esme opens her eyes, and Dante introduces himself. He says, they’ve met before. Can she tell him what happened to her?  

Dex says, Sonny told him that he could guard Josslyn, but other than that, he can’t go near her, and she says, and he’ll do everything Sonny tells him to. He says, he’ll carry a gun for Sonny, and follow orders when it comes to business, but what’s happening between them is personal. She says, that’s not the way he’s been acting, and he says he was trying to cover for her. Isn’t that what she wanted? She says she thought so, but she doesn’t know anymore. She could have died tonight if it wasn’t for Britt… and him. It’s like he’s always there. He says, when he got to the docks, and she was on the ground, he almost lost it. He thought she was wounded, and prayed she wasn’t dying. She says she’s right here, and he says he was afraid he’d never get to do this again. They kiss, and he says, does she? She says, yes, they get busy, and there’s a song part.

We see The Hook on the docks looking for her hook. She says, damn, and takes off her mask. It’s Heather.

Britt tells Obrecht, by the time her ride came, she realized her reasons for leaving were less important than her reasons for staying… especially since her mutter is here. Obrecht says she is, and she always will be, no matter what. Britt says she’ll drink to that, and asks if they should have a toast. She pours the drinks, and says, to my birthday, to the new year, and to us. They clink glasses, and she says, mother and daughter. Obrecht says, prost, and suggests Britt take off her coat, and stay a while. She helps Britt off with her coat, and Britt coughs. Obrecht says, her dress is torn. Is she bleeding? We see a scratch on Britt’s chest, and she starts to walk, but drops to the floor.

Tomorrow, Laura asks Ava what Victor has on her son; Dante asks where Esme’s been hiding out the last six months; and Obrecht asks Britt, what’s happened to her?

Below Deck

We find out the reason napkins line breadbaskets is to reduce condensation. Who says reality shows aren’t educational? Tony has big issue with the change in the schedule because he works out in the morning, and thinks he’s on vacation. In his interview, he says, this change is a pain in his balls. Fraser tells Ross that they need to find the most beautiful court for a tennis and tequila doubles match. They decide on Landings Resort, and Fraser suggests they do lunch there too. Breakfast is served, and the tender is packed for the excursion. Camille breaks another glass, and gets annoyed when Alissa explains that they can’t put it in with the regular trash, and no, they can’t throw it in the sea either. Fraser says, he just wants smiles and hard work. At breakfast, primary Gigi says she could win several Opens and Wimbledon, and no one would notice. They only notice the Gold Medals. Captain Sandy lets Alissa know that she had a talk with Camille about the lack of effort on her part. We flash back to them having that talk, and Alissa says, it’s more the nasty attitude. She doesn’t mind picking up the slack, but Camille’s attitude us ridiculous. She tears up, and in the captain’s interview, she says, when she hears one of her crew members crying, it’s disappointing. But she personally wants to observe the behavior, and not just take the crew member at their word. Camille is on her radar. Captain Sandy asks if she should send Camille to the deck permanently, but Alissa says, then that leaves only three on interior, to the deck’s five. Ross asks if he can use Camille to bring in the jet skis, and the captain tells Camille not to have a fresh mouth. She wants Camille to apologize to Alissa for her tone, and be a team player. It doesn’t have to be hard.

In Camille’s interview, she says she doesn’t disagree that she has an attitude; she’s proud of it. She’ll apologize, because she has to play the game so she doesn’t get fired. Does this woman understand how jobs work? Captain Sandy says she has faith in Camille, and in her interview, Camille says, this is so f***ing stupid, but she’ll bite her tongue. Helping to set up at the tennis court, Hayley tells Fraser that gingers don’t do well in the heat. In her interview, she tells us, join a superyacht they said. Have a glamorous life. More like a canker and sweaty tit rash. It’s too hot for a ginger person; it’s lethal. The yacht anchors at some gorgeous spot, and Camille asks to talk to Alissa. Tony and Ben play tennis at the court, and somehow a camera operator gets whacked by a ball in the balls. On the boat, Camille tells Alissa that she wants to apologize, and take full responsibility for her actions. She doesn’t want Alissa to feel any animosity, and she wants to try and move forward on a positive note. Alissa says she appreciates the apology and taking responsibility, but she’ll be looking for actions. The whole team is busting their ass. Tony takes photos of the guests at the court, and says he’s collecting memories. Ben plays Gigi, and does not do badly. A lunch of tomahawk steak and king crab legs is served. Neither one of these would be my choice in a restaurant, but I wouldn’t care what Rachel made, I’d eat it. The guests come back, and Camille says she wants be with them. Some of the guests decide to snorkel, and suddenly, guest Amanda yells for help and flails around in the distance, and Tony dives in. Captain Sandy says, holy sh*t.

Tony brings Amanda back on a surfboard, and we find out she was bit by a jellyfish. There’s the whole, will you pee on me? conversation (and no, that is not the solution), and vinegar is brought out to put on the bite. In Captain Sandy’s interview, she says, when struggling in the water, people can spiral in a second. Luckily, they have the A-team. In Rachel’s interview, she says, it’s going to be an Indian dinner, and it’s going to be epic. She loves Indian food and studied there. She knows why they use certain ingredients for gut health, but you can fart your ass off or feel bloated if you don’t do it right. Camille goes to the bridge, telling the captain that she just wanted a breather. Every time she turns around, someone is tasking her. Captain Sandy says she needs to be tasked. If nobody needs her, she should get some rest. Camille moves along, when Rachel radios her, asking if she’s coming back to do the silverware. Camille tells her that the captain sent her on a break, and Rachel wonders where she should put the silverware in the meantime. Camille mumbles that Rachel is 35; figure it out. Captain Sandy gets on the radio, and tells Camille not to throw her under the bus. She told Camille to take a break if she wasn’t needed. Camille whines to the captain that she didn’t understand, and in her cabin, she wails that Rachel isn’t her department head. She’s going to lose her sh*t. In the crew mess, Alissa laughs, and says, Camille is stupid. Camille can’t believe she’d said that over the radio. She literally has to report to everyone, and she can’t anymore. She goes back to the bridge, literally crying, and tells Captain Sandy that she’s doing all the bitch work. In the captain’s interview, she says, it’s not easy to work with no schedule, which is where Camille gets grace, but she has to be in it to win it. She tells Camille that someone needs to make a schedule. Hold it together. They’ll figure it out. Captain Sandy calls Fraser and Ross to the bridge. She tells them that she thinks the problem is that Camille is being pulled in two different directions. She wants to put Camille on interior full-time, and she’ll help Ross on deck. In Ross’s interview, he says, they’re good; they have plenty of people. Camille inhibits efficiency, and she’s a pain in the ass. This works for him. He tells the captain that it wasn’t working the way it was. Fraser sits down with Camille, and says, there wasn’t any communication. She tells him that Alissa tasks her with the sh*t she doesn’t want to do, and it’s not fair. Fraser says he thinks she’s being immature, and to come to him before she goes to the captain. She says he can’t tell her that she can’t go to her captain, and he asks if she’s f***ing mental. I get a picture of Ed Grimley in my head.

Fraser says he cares about the well-being of the crew, and in his interview, he says, Camille isn’t looking for structure. She’s looking for an excuse to cover that she’s sh*t at her job. Camille says he has his opinion of her, but she’ll never see it that way, and he says he’s glad they spoke. He’ll arrange a schedule. In the galley, Rachel says, welcome to hell, and the guests get ready for dinner. Camille does cabins, and says she doesn’t understand expresso soap. Why does anyone want to wash their hands with coffee? In Rachel’s interview, she says she understood Captain Lee’s expectations, but there’s some pressure with a new captain. The captain joins the guests for dinner, and they talk pickleball. Katie and Ross find a place to kiss, and Tony gripes about the schedule change again. The captain explains to the guests that they have 24 hour watch because of the Titanic guy signing off on his watch. See? This show is just full of knowledge this week. Camille visits Ben on the bridge to flirt, and one of the guests says they’re having a religious awakening over the curry. In Ross’s interview, he says he’s changing the schedule back, with Tony on early, and Ben on late. Everyone was happy, and a happy worker is a good worker. Camille makes out with Ben, while Alissa cleans up. When Camille comes down, she tells Alissa that she made Ben a cup of coffee. Alissa suggests Ben make his own coffee, but Camille says she’ll do what she pleases. She’ll get everything done. Alissa explains, it’s the pace, and Camille says, Alissa is going to make her quit. Alissa says she woudn’t mind. Every night, it’s a different issue.

The guests go to bed, and the next morning, Tony is back to his 5 am routine of working out and grunting. Ross goes to Captain Sandy, and says, the deck crew loved the previous schedule. He’s switching it back, but he’ll modify it to make sure they get adequate sleep. Rachel tells Fraser that she’s wearing a Dorothy emerald green dress to go out, and he says he’ll wear green pants. The breakfast special is crab cakes benedict, which sounds like heaven. It’s time for the guests to depart, and Gigi says, it was far beyond what they expected. She gives Captain Sandy an envelope for making her birthday weekend so special. They leave, and Camille says, goodbye; hello alcohol. The captain tells them to meet in the sky longue for the tip meeting. Champagne is poured, and Captain Sandy tells them that they’re excellent at their craft. The guests thought they were as awesome as she did, and left a $31K tip – $2384 each. In Tony’s interview, he says, that’s a sh*tload of money. More than some people make in a year. They worked their asses off, and he’s crazy happy. Fraser tells the stews to just get the essentials done, and Ross tells the deckhands to just do the bridge and aft deck. The crew gets dressed for going out.

Ross tells Ben, whenever he’s tired, it goes one of two ways; he behaves really good or really bad. Maybe it’s me or my TV, but Rachel’s dress looks blue, and Fraser’s pants are barely green. Rachel says she loves Captain Lee, but it’s awesome to work with Captain Sandy. She’s a great example, being a female. In Katie’s interview, she says, working for Captain Sandy is super empowering in a boys’ world. Some captains just sit on the bridge and bark orders, but she teaches them to be better people and better in the yachting world. She thinks the captain is awesome and looks up to her. They go to a restaurant, and Fraser toasts to a charter well done. Cameron tells Ben that she wants to keep having adventures, but doesn’t want to be alone, and he tells her that she’s the first chick he’s cuddled in a long time. In Ben’s interview, he says, what’s happening between them seems natural. He’s happy. In Ross’s interview, he says, the English stereotype is that they drink a lot of tea, but they also drink a lot of cocktails. Yachting is high pressure, and they let loose when they’re off. They work hard and play hard.

Camille moans to Hayley that she’s at the bottom of the barrel, and in Hayley’s interview, she says, Camille is confused. She doesn’t understand the difference between being a guest and a member of the crew. Suck it up, and scrub the toilet. Hayley tells Camille that she can only change the way she deals with things. They go back to the boat and drink some more. Ben, Ross, Camille, Katie, and Alissa get in the hot tub, but since it’s kind of coupled up, Alissa leaves. Ross grabs Camille, and starts getting obnoxious. In Katie’s interview, she says, it’s the sequence. Ross drinks, acts ridiculous, and touches everybody. She’s over it and f***ing annoyed. She cries in her cabin, while Ross somehow finds his way back to his, and Ben and Camille go at it like rabbits.  

Rodney Bay, St. Lucia. Ross tells Ben that he doesn’t remember the night before, and Ben says he was aggressive. Ross admits he should have gone straight to bed, and says he has apologies to make. He tells Katie and Camille, apparently, he was not in the best of states, and Katie says he was handsy in a forceful way. He says he apologizes if he upset or offended them, and Camille says, in the moment, he did. In Katie’s interview, she says, everyone has times when they’re too drunk. She wants to move forward, and forgive him. They hug, and Alissa radios Camille for some help. Camille tells her to wait a second; she doesn’t have time right now. Once again, the radio is her enemy, and Captain Sandy calls her to the bridge. She says she’s had conversations with Camille, and heard Alissa call her for help. She hears the radio chatter, and doesn’t want to hear pushback. Camille has this charter to prove she’s in it to win it, or she promises Camille will be off the boat. Fraser is called to the bridge next, and the captain tells him that if Camille isn’t 100% this charter, she’s gone. Fraser says he thinks that’s where they’re at now. To be frank, he’d be happy with a team of three.

Meanwhile, Camille dramatically tramps through the boat, saying, how can she (I assume the captain) act like she knows what’s going on? She wonders if she’s losing her mind. She storms into one of the cabins where Alissa is making a bed, and says she needs privacy. She yells at Alissa to get out, and Alissa calmly suggests Camille cry in a different room. She’s not going anywhere.

Either there was no preview or I didn’t see it, but I have the sneaking suspicion Camille isn’t even going to make it to the next charter.

🥡 Feeling Y2K23ish…

Stop in tomorrow for same soap, different year, and some tea on what the new year has brought, along with what the last one took. Until then, stay safe, stay not pressuring yourself to keep any resolutions, and stay always knowing who’s listening in on the radio before you give attitude.

Dec31

December 30, 2022 – The Clock Strikes Midnight In Port Charles, Preempt, Jersey Devil, Husband Talk, NYE Happenings, Drink It Up, About Those Pets (!), 2 X 3 = 5 Quotes For the New Year & Another

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Britt’s cake is brought out by a shirtless waiter, and Brad says, they all know how much Britt hates the birthday song. Maxie says, but there’s one tradition they must insist on, and they both say, make a wish. Britt looks at everyone around her, and Finn looks at Elizabeth, who jets out of sight.

On deck, Trina says, she and Spencer should get back inside. People will wonder where they are. He says, that’s the idea; to get people wondering about them, so word gets back to Esme. Someone watches from the shadows.

Willow picks up a pair of 2023 eyeglasses, and Michael comes downstairs. He tells Willow that Wiley is completely zonked out, and she says, poor little guy. He was determined to make it until midnight. Michael says, he did see midnight, in London, and she says, it was genius on his part, but Wiley really wanted to stay up and ring in the New Year in Port Charles. She puts the glasses on him, and he says, there’s always next year.

Dante asks why Sam wanted to come to Kelly’s instead of staying at the restaurant, and she says, because nothing on their menu looked as good to her as an ice cream sundae. She hopes he’s not disappointed, but he says, nothing with her could disappoint him. He’s glad it’s just the two of them.

Outside, Josslyn apologizes for making bodyguard Steve wait outside. She just needs some privacy to talk to Cam. He tells her to take as long as she needs, and she goes inside. She sees Sam and Dante, and they all say, happy New Year. Dante asks, what brings her to Kelly’s on New Year’s Eve?

Laura says she’s not just worried about Nikolas; she’s worried about Spencer. If he knows something, he should tell her. He says he can’t, and she says, why? Has Victor threatened him? He says, no one is at risk if they play Victor’s game, but if she insists on taking Victor down, he’ll go down with him. Leave him alone, or she’ll lose her son. She says she’s not going to let Victor do this to him. Victor can’t take Nikolas away from her. He says, don’t be so sure, and she asks if he’s fallen so far that Victor is his only way back.

Esme says, one day Ace will go to school, and she’ll teach them about the fire triangle, the three things you need to start a fire; oxygen, fuel, and heat. She takes the matchstick out of her cardigan pocket, and smiles.

Britt says, she wishes… but Maxie says, don’t. Brad says, her wish won’t come true, and Britt says, forgive her; it’s her first birthday party. In a low voice, Austin tells her, there’s still time. She can change her mind and stay. She blows out the candles, but only on one part of the cake. Maxie says she knows Britt’s new to this, but tradition is that she blow out all the candles. Nina blows out the rest because she can’t help herself, and everyone applauds. Brad picks up a knife, and asks if Britt will do the honor of performing surgery on her cake. Britt’s hand trembles slightly, and Terry says, she needs the practice for all those surgeries she’ll be picking up while Britt is on vacation. She takes the knife from Brad, and cuts the cake. Britt squeals, and everyone applauds. Terry puts a piece of cake on a plate, and Brad says, the birthday girl gets the first slice, giving it to Britt. Drag queen Alyssa says, besides cake, they have another special treat for the birthday girl. Mommy dearest, you’re on. Obrecht takes the stage, and says, this is a song she sang at the Nurses Ball, which brought the house down if she does say so herself. Everyone cheers.

Finn finds Elizabeth on deck, and says he knows it’s none of his business, but he’s still a doctor and still cares about her. Drinking this early in her pregnancy isn’t good for the baby. She tells him, there is no baby.

Spencer tells Trina, just a little longer. They want everyone to miss them, remember? She says, this is a very dangerous game, and he takes her hand, saying, it’s not all a game. The lurker starts to walk out to the deck.

The woman behind the counter tells Josslyn that Cameron isn’t there; he’s filling in for one of the catering crew. Josslyn asks when he’ll be back, but she says, not until after midnight. Josslyn guesses she’ll have to talk to him another time, and tells Sam and Dante, happy New Year. She starts to leave, and Sam makes a face at Dante. He gets up, and tells Josslyn, wait. What’s the rush? Does she want to join them?

Nikolas says he’s the only one to blame for the errors in his judgement, and won’t let Laura get involved. She says she is involved, and he says, it’s like he made it his life’s work to disappoint her. She tells him not to say that. There is nothing he could ever do to make her stop loving him. The Cassadines have been trying to take him away from her since the day he was born, and she’s not going to let them win. He says he loves her fighting for him, but it’s not just about him.

Esme looks at the fire alarm, and says, it’s a long shot. She may get trapped, instead of finding a way to escape, but it’s the only chance she’s got. No. The only chance they’ve got. Brace yourself. It won’t be long now.

Scotty says, Obrecht was wunderbar, and Nina says, a real star. Too bad we didn’t get to see it. Britt hugs Obrecht, and says she wishes there could be an encore. Obrecht tells her, there will be if she has anything to say about it.

Finn says, what does Elizabeth mean, there’s no baby? and she says she had a miscarriage.

Nina tells Sonny, it may be Britt’s first birthday party, but she did it right. Everyone’s enjoying it. He says he’s happy as long as Nina enjoys it.

Trina says, the other guests must be asking about them by now, and Spencer says, if they are, then good. It’ll get back to Esme. She says, they should get back, and he says, yeah. They hear something, and she says, what was that? He says he doesn’t know, but we see it’s The Hook who’s lurking. She says, it’s probably the people at the party.

Willow says, it’s fine if Michael opens a bottle of champagne. She won’t feel deprived. He tells her, don’t be so noble; he knows she loves champagne. She says she does, especially the kind he buys. Since they have a rack full of it, open one. He says, so he can have champagne while she goes without? No. She says she’s happy with her sparkling cider, and he says, so is he. They’ll have champagne next year. She says she thought they were celebrating with Wiley next year, but he says, they can do both. Champagne for them, and cider for Wiley. They can wake up the baby, and they can ring in the new year together. She says, nothing says happy New Year like a screaming baby, but he says, maybe their daughter will be a night owl, and she’ll like staying up until midnight. She says, then he can be the one to get her back to sleep, and he says, she has his solemn promise. She says, what if she’s not here next year?

Finn says he’s sorry for Elizabeth’s loss, and she thanks him. She says she wouldn’t blame him if he said it was some kind of poetic justice, but he tells her that he’d never say that. She and Nikolas could try again. She says, she and Nikolas were never going to last. Ava knows, but she never told the boys. Not that he owes her anything… He says, they won’t hear it from him; no one will. She thanks him, and he tells her, happy New Year. He goes back inside, passing Terry, who’s on her way out to the deck. Elizabeth says, Terry probably wants to know what that was all about, and Terry says, when Elizabeth is ready, she’ll tell her, or not. They hug.

Scotty takes the mic, and asks for everyone’s attention. Sonny says, Scotty’s not going to sing, is he? and Scotty says, he couldn’t carry a tune if it had handles. So if there’s no more hecklers, let’s get on with this. They had great music, and had a great cake, but there’s one thing missing. Britt says, presents? and everyone goes, wooo!

Josslyn gets a sundae, and says, Dante and Sam are super dressed up. Are they going somewhere fancy to watch the ball drop? Sam says, they did fancy. Now they’re just enjoying sundaes. Josslyn says, it’s a fun way to start the new year. She bets they’re excited. Dante says he’s excited for all the cool projects they have planned, and Sam says, their New Year’s resolution is a do-it-yourself remodel of the den. What about Josslyn? Any resolutions? Josslyn says, to become a doctor, and Dante asks, since when? She says, a lot of it has to do with when she found Ava after she’d been stabbed. She felt so helpless; she didn’t know what to do for her. Then she realized she can learn what to do, so she submitted her application to switch her major to pre-med. Dante says, she’s going to be an incredible doctor, and Sam says, good for Josslyn, to go through something terrible, and find a positive way to take action. Josslyn thanks her, and says she hopes the police find Esme, lock her up, and throw away the key. Dante says he wants to catch The Hook too, but they don’t know that it’s Esme for sure. She knows what happens when they jump to conclusions, right? Sam asks what she’s missing, and Dante says, for a while, Sonny thought Dex was behind the killings.  

Nikolas tells Laura that he should have never come back to Port Charles. He would have done everyone a favor if he’d stayed dead. She tells him, don’t ever say that. She was heartbroken when she thought she’d lost him, and that’s when Spencer began to spiral. Actually, she doesn’t think he ever recovered from it. They need Nikolas to fight for himself and fight for them. If he gives in to Victor now, Victor will never let go. He says, what if it’s too late? but she says, it is not too late. She’ll back him up with every possible resource she can muster. Everything, she promises. If he could have a clean slate – wipe it clean, and start over – would he do it? He asks if it’s possible, and she says, yes. It is. It’s never too late. It can start tonight. All he has to do is decide. Does he belong to Victor or does he belong to himself?

As The Hook raises her hook, Trina says she hopes Joss and Cam will join them before midnight, and Spencer says, they will, if Cam gets off in time. Maxie calls to them, and asks what they’re doing out here. They’re missing all the fun. The Hook shrinks back in the shadows, and Maxie says, there’s cake and birthday presents, and Spencer says, they were just getting a breath of fresh air. Maxie says, in the cold? and Trina says, they didn’t realize how long they were out there, handing Spencer back his coat. Spencer says, it didn’t feel that cold to him, and they all go inside, while The Hook goes back to lurking.

Esme takes an ornament off the tree, and says, something to remember their first Christmas by. She puts it in her cardigan pocket.

Taking the mic, Maxie says, after a slight delay to round up some stragglers, it’s time to get back to the business at hand. She tells Britt, some of her nearest and dearest worked together to give her a very special birthday present. Obrecht gives Britt a box, and Britt thanks everyone. She opens it, and says, a remote control. Brad says, bring it in, boys, and the waiters roll in a giant TV. Sonny asks if Nina has any idea what’s going on, but she says, just watch. Brad says, lights, camera, action, and tells Britt, press play. Obrecht says, Britta Westbourne, this is your life. A song presumably called I Am Here to Win plays, and pictures and videos of Britt’s life come on the screen – baby pictures, pictures of her growing up, her graduations, with Nathan, Nina, Obrecht, Finn, Terry, Epiphany <sniff>, Brad, Brad, Brad, Cody, Carly, Austin, and Spencer.

Josslyn says, if Dante is asking about what Sonny did to Dex, he already knows the answer. Dante says, Michael made some serious allegations, and Dex denied them, and Josslyn says, lucky him. Sam asks why Dante is lucky, and Josslyn says, because he doesn’t have to arrest his own father. Michael was worried, because he didn’t want Dante stuck in the middle, even though he is. Sonny put him there, and keeps putting him there. Dante says, Sonny has been who Sonny has been long before he came to town, and Josslyn says, there he goes, making excuses. Dante asks if that’s what he’s doing, and Josslyn says she can’t tell Dante how to feel. All she can tell him is how she feels, and she feels Sonny’s a fraud. All of that talk about honor and loyalty is just words; he doesn’t live it. Dante does. He’s a good cop. He puts his life on the line to protect and serve, while Sonny sits back and lets other people put their lives on the line. To what? Make him richer? Then when he almost kills someone, he expects them to lie and cover for him. Now Sonny is protecting her. Is she supposed to feel grateful? That’s not happening.

Britt’s Memory Lane ends with a video of her waving goodbye. Everyone applauds, and Brad says, speech. Britt thanks everyone, and says, that was… Brad says, fantastic? and Maxie says, terrific? Britt says, that was one of the nicest things anyone’s ever done for her. She did prepare a speech, but being here now, and seeing their faces, faces she loves, she wants them to know how very, very much… She gets choked up, and Maxie says, blame Austin; it was his idea. Austin says, and in case she doesn’t want to haul a huge monitor around with her, they got her this cute digital frame. Maxie says, she, Brad, and Liesl have the password, so they can upload photos. That way, they can be with her, on vacation or where she goes. Britt hugs Austin, and thanks him.

Nikolas tells Laura, happy New Year, but she says she doesn’t think it’s midnight yet. He still has time to make a New Year’s resolution. He promises to think about what she said, and if there’s a way to disentangle himself from Victor… She says, they can manage on their own. Throw him out, change the locks, then stand back and dare him to do his worst. Because Nikolas isn’t just a Cassadine, he’s her son, and he’s Spencer’s father, and as long as they stick together, they’ll be just fine. She tells him that she loves him, and they hug

Esme tells Ace, no matter what happens, no matter how scary it gets, remember mommy is with you. Womb to tomb. She looks at the smoke alarm, and lights the match.

Nina and Sonny come out on deck, and she asks why he’s taking her away from the party. He says, don’t worry. He’ll have her back before the ball drops. She asks if he’ll have her back before she freezes to death, and he puts his arm around her, asking if she’s warm now. She says she’s getting there, and he asks if she remembers last New Year’s Eve. She says, when he was at Charlie’s, and he says he was at a tough point in his life. Dante grabbed his keys and wouldn’t let him go home, then Nina came along. She says she took him home, and thought that would be the end of them. That he’d sober up the next day, and go back to Carly. He says, here they are a year later. Is she sorry about how it ended? She puts her arms around him, and tells him, who said it was ending? They’ve only just begun. He tells her to kiss him, and she does.

Nikolas pours a drink, when the fire alarm goes off. He runs upstairs. In her now smoke filled room, the tree ablaze, Esme says, maybe this wasn’t such a brilliant plan after all. She watches the door.

Britt thanks Spencer for coming, and he says he woudn’t miss it for the world. She asks where his plus one is, and he calls Trina over. He says, there’s someone he’d like her to meet, and Trina wishes Britt a happy birthday. Spencer says he was telling Trina how much Britt means to him and how alike they are. Britt says she hopes not, and tells Trina, if she’s truly Spencer’s friend, make sure he doesn’t end up like her. He says he’d be proud to be like her, they hug, and Britt mouths he’s the best to Trina. Brad tells them, break it up. It’s the last dance before the year ends. He pulls Britt away, and Spencer asks what Britt said over his shoulder. Trina says she’ll never tell, and leads him onto the dance floor.

Josslyn tells Dante that she’s sorry. She didn’t mean to go off like that. It’s not the best way to ring in the new year. Sam says, Dante started it, and Dante says, he kinda did. Josslyn tells him, all she’s trying to say is that she thinks he’s awesome, and she’s sorry he’s stuck in this position. He thanks her, but says, don’t feel sorry for him. He’s a lucky guy for many reasons. Sam says, and don’t you forget it. She asks if she can make an observation, and Josslyn says, please; she has it coming. Sam says she thinks Josslyn is smart and strong, especially since she realizes she wants to become a doctor. Focus on that. Being hung up on Sonny is a waste. She has better things to do with her time. Josslyn thanks her, and says she’ll try to remember that. Dante says, it’s almost midnight. Times Square might have the crowds, but Port Charles has the fireworks. It’s a pretty good view. He asks if Josslyn wants to join them, and she thanks him for the invitation, but she wants to try and make Britt’s birthday party. They all wish each other a happy New Year, and Josslyn leaves. Outside, Josslyn tells Steve that she’s going to head home and change, then go to the party at the Haunted Star. Sonny will be there; he doesn’t have to worry. He follows her out of the gate.

Willow tells Michael, sorry. They were having such a nice time, and she… She was going to say killed the mood, but that sounds morbid. He says, she can be morbid, scared, or angry. She doesn’t have to put up a front for him. Wiley is a child and has to feel secure, so she has to pretend with him, but she doesn’t have to pretend with him. She says she’s not pretending. That’s the crazy part. As scared as she is that she’s going to die, this is the happiest time of her life. She loves him, she loves Wiley, she loves their daughter, she loves where they live, with his squabbling relative right up the driveway. There was a long time when she was alone, and now her life is so rich, and so full, beyond anything she could have imagined. Most of it came from him. He thinks her, but says he thinks he got the better half of the bargain. She changed his life. It wasn’t a bad life before. He’s been blessed with a lot, and knows he’s lucky, but with her, he has a connection he’s never felt with anyone. He loves the trust and compatibility. He know he sounds unromantic… She says, not to her. She feels compatible with him too. He says, hold that thought.

Nikolas unlocks Esme’s room, and goes in with a fire extinguisher. As he sprays it and calls her name, she runs out.  

Michael shows Willow a ring, and says, remember this? She says, it’s his great-grandmother’s ring, and he says, to him, it’s Willow’s ring. It has been since she accepted it the first time. She says she gave it back when they had their marriage annulled, and he says he hated signing those papers. She says, so did she, and he says, it’s a family heirloom. He could have put it back with his great grandmother’s jewelry, but he held on to it, hoping she’d accept it again – but this time forever. He gets down on one knee, and asks her to marry him.

Esme runs out on the parapet, coughing. She says, let mommy catch her breath. Then they’re out of here. She hears a door close, and Nikolas is on the parapet with her.

Sonny and Nina come back inside, and Spencer says, nice up there, huh? Nina says, it’s beautiful, and Spencer says, they thought so too, putting his arm around Trina. Alyssa says, okay, party people. It’s that time. Out with the old year, and in with the new. So chill the champagne, grab someone you love, or at least you don’t hate, and get ready for the countdown. Finn looks at Elizabeth.

Nikolas tells Esme, she took her best shot. The fire is out, and there’s only one way out, which is down. Or did she forget last time? She says she hasn’t forgotten, and he says he knows she cares about the baby. Once they get to Cassadine Island, she’ll have everything she needs or wants until the baby is born. He promises her. Just take his hand. She hoists herself up, and stands on the wall. She looks down.

Everyone gets coupled up, and Finn starts to leave. Austin asks where he’s going, and Finn says, the emcee said you should be with someone you love, so he’s going home to bring in the new year with his daughter. He leaves, and Britt hugs Austin, thanking him for the gift. Being quiet about where she’s going has given everyone she loves something to remember her by. Alyssa begins the countdown, 10…9… 8…

Willow says, yes, with all her heart she’ll marry Michael. He puts the ring on her, and says, for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health. She says, as long as they both shall live, and they kiss.

7…6…

Dante wonders if he should have driven Josslyn, but Sam says, she has Sonny’s bodyguard. She’s probably having fun at the party right now. Truth? He says, of course (🍷), and she says she didn’t really want to share him tonight, and they kiss.

5… 4… 3… 2… 1! Happy New Year! Horns blow and noisemakers make noise, and Austin watches Britt slip out. Scotty kisses Obrecht, and Sonny kisses Nina. Spencer and Trina get close enough to kiss, but he blows a noisemaker instead. Elizabeth hugs Terry, and Terry says, it’s going to be a better year for Elizabeth; she promises. Elizabeth says, it has to be. For Terry as well. Terry says she’ll drink to that, and they clink glasses. Maxie asks if Austin has seen Britt, and Brad says, she’s missing the best part of the party. Austin tells them, say what you will about Britt, that woman knows how to make an exit. Happy New Year. The three of them clink glasses

Nikolas asks what Esme is doing, and tells her, get down. She says she’s survived the drop once before, and she’ll do it again. He watches as she falls backward.

All dressed up, Josslyn waits at the docks. So does The Hook, who comes out of the shadows.  

Next week, Dante asks Sam what justice looks like when it’s applied to his father; Britt says, ten minutes before she says goodbye to Port Charles; Nikolas tells Elizabeth, no one is going to know; and The Hook comes for Josslyn.

Just a thought, but what the hell was Steve thinking, letting Josslyn wait on the docks all by herself? I knew she said Sonny was going to be at the party, but the party was not on the docks. He should have made sure she got on the boat safely. He’s fired.

🏈 No Soap Monday…

But if you like college football, you’re the lucky one.

GENERAL HOSPITAL Is Preempted on Monday

👠 Real Nightmare of New Jersey…

Did she bother watching her own contribution to the mess?

Teresa Giudice Says Watching Real Housewives Of New Jersey For The First Time Felt Like A “Knife Right Through My Heart”

It wouldn’t surprise me.

https://pagesix.com/2022/12/29/luis-ruelas-accused-of-giving-teresa-giudices-daughters-fake-cartier/

It never occurs to them that they might be asked to leave.

Teresa Giudice Slams Rumors That She’s Leaving Real Housewives Of New Jersey; Says “I’m The One That Started The Show”

🥾 Having Their Say…

How come there hasn’t been a Real Househusbands series yet?

Top Memorable Quotes From A Real Housewives Husband

🎊 Here It Comes…

All about kicking 2022 to the curb, and ringing in 2023. Mostly if you don’t have something better to do, like actually going out. We’ve decided we’ve done it all, and did it when it was safer and less expensive.

https://www.hola.com/us/celebrities/20221229340929/5-new-year-eve-tv-specials/

How To Watch Tonight’s New Year’s Eve Specials On TV & The Ball Drop In Times Square Live Online
https://nypost.com/2022/12/30/what-to-watch-and-stream-on-new-years-2022/

This actually sounds really cool.

https://blockster.com/where-to-celebrate-new-years-eve-in-the-metaverse

🥂 Agreed…

The Mayor de Blasio comment was the best.

https://www.gawker.com/celebrity/cnn-andy-cohen-drunk-new-years-eve

🐕 Because I Have To…

Ending 2022 with something interesting about what I like to call God’s best invention.

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/6-fascinating-things-we-learned-about-pet-dogs-and-cats-in-2022/

🦜 Quotes of the Week

If your goal is to enjoy some genuine joie de vivre this holiday season, keep in mind that the simplest acts of generosity, connection, and self-care can offer the biggest rewards. – 11 Ways to Experience Holiday Joy

Sometimes a person has to go a very long distance out of his way to come back a short distance correctly. – Jerry, The Zoo Story by Edward Albee

If you hear a voice within you say, you cannot paint, then by all means paint, and that voice will be silenced. – Vincent Van Gogh

Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things. – Robert Brault

At the end of your life, you will never regret not having passed one more test, not winning one more verdict, or not closing one more deal. You will regret time not spent with a husband, a friend, a child, or a parent. – Barbara Bush (Or your pets!)

🍾 Auld Lang Syning Off…

There’s no GH on Monday, and although there’s a new Deck, I’m postponing it a day, since I have a deadline on Tuesday. New Year’s Day isn’t exactly an ideal workday, so… Enjoy your journey into the new year, whether you celebrate or not. And don’t feel pressured to, or let anyone tell you how to feel about it. So until next year, stay safe, stay being true to yourself, and stay finding a positive way to take action when you go through something terrible.

🎉Happy New Year!🎉

Dec30

December 29, 2022 – Britt’s New Year’s Eve Birthday Bash, Returned, Why Lie, Copycat Corden, Bravo’s Finest, NYC NYE & Waiting

Posted on by
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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Terry sees Finn at Britt’s party, and says, Elizabeth must have dragged him here, since it’s not his scene. She asks where Elizabeth is.

Elizabeth gives Nikolas a list of stuff Esme will need in the coming weeks, and he says he’ll take care of it. She says, and she’ll take care of Esme, and he says he appreciates all she’s done. She says she’s not doing it for him, and goes upstairs. The doorbell rings, and Nikolas opens the door to Laura, who tells him, Happy New Year. He says, it’s not a good time, and she says she’s sorry to hear that, and walks in.

Trina finds Spencer sitting on the deck steps on the Haunted Star. She apologizes for being late, and asks if he was waiting long. He says, it’s worth the wait; she looks beautiful. She says, him too… He knows what she means. He asks if she’s ready to do this, and she says, be seen together to generate a buzz? He suggests they post a photo on social media, and she says, they can make Esme jealous enough to become reckless. He says, one look at her, and mission accomplished, and takes the photo. Sonny and Nina board the boat, and Sonny says, when Kristina said she saw Spencer at Christmas, he said, that’s impossible. His nephew wouldn’t show up in Port Charles without coming to see him.

Michael meets Dex at the docks, and Dex says, Sonny’s cutting a deal. Michael asks, with who? and Dex says, with someone he’ll regret doing business with.

Esme’s door opens, and she says, oh, it’s Elizabeth. Kind of overdressed for nursing a prisoner, isn’t she? Elizabeth asks how she is, and Esme says, like she cares. Elizabeth says, Esme and her baby have been on her mind a lot lately, and Esme tells her, it’s not too late. Help her get out of here. Not for her sake, but for the baby.

We see a sign that says, Britch Fest! with a caricature of a woman (presumably Britt) in a martini glass. Britt comes in with Obrecht, and takes a drink from the tray of a shirtless waiter, saying, happy birthday to me. She and Obrecht clink glasses, and Obrecht says, he has nothing on mein Scotty. She goes off to find him, and Maxie and Brad join Britt. Maxie says, fashionably late she sees, and Britt says she wanted to make an entrance. Brad says she did; that ensemble is smokin’. Britt says, that’s the plan. Good job on the waiters. She knows it was Brad’s contribution. She tells Maxie, everything looks gorgeous, and Maxie tells her to note it’s prosecco, not champagne. Britt says, Maxie knows her well. Austin comes over and says, Maxie looks great. He knows Britt is his boss, but can he say, wow. She says, just for tonight, and Maxie says she and Brad are going to check on some other surprises they have up their sleeve. They leave, and Britt says, they went to so much trouble. Austin says, they love her and want to make her happy. So she should consider how they’re going to feel when they find out it’s their last opportunity.

Spencer says he’s sorry. He’d meant to come by and thank Sonny for looking out for him in Pentenville. He truly appreciated it. It’s just that so much has happened since he got out… Sonny says, relax. He’s just happy to see Spencer. They hug, and Spencer says, hopefully, he won’t need any more favors from Sonny. Nina says she was sorry to hear about Trina’s friend, Officer Cabrera, and Sonny says he heard Rory was a very good man. Trina says, he was a very good man; too good. Spencer says, Rory was there for Trina when she needed support, and Nina says, they’re going inside, and will see them later. Trina thanks Spencer for what he said about Rory, and for helping bring his killer to justice. Spencer says, she knows he’d do anything for her, but this isn’t just for her. He’s the one who brought Esme to Port Charles. That makes it his responsibility to rid the city of her forever.

Inside, Sonny says, looks like Britt went all out, and Nina says she appreciates him coming out with her. This is a bit more lively than their New Year’s Eve last year. He says she doesn’t have to thank him. He likes being by her side. She says, it’s important for her to be there for Britt. She, Britt, and Maxie made a sister pact, and they’ve been close ever since. She just wants more time with Britt. He says, Huntington’s is like Alzheimer’s. It’s a no joke disease, and she’s going to have a rough road ahead.

Austin tells Britt to just hear him out. He doesn’t think it’s a good idea, this whole running away thing. She swears if he starts hounding her, she’ll throw him overboard. And to be clear, she’s not running away. She’s making a graceful exit. He says, there’s still time to rethink that, but she says, not much. In four hours, when the countdown begins, and the topless hotties are topping off drinks, she’ll slip away, with a one-way ticket to destiny.

Finn asks where Yuri is, and Terry says, he’s sick. It’s adorable how the biggest, toughest men become babies when they get the sniffles. (She can say this because she’s not living with one.) He says, it’s a good thing Yuri knows a doctor, and she says, it’s nice to have someone to take care of, and be taken care of in return.

Laura says she knows Nikolas prefers she call before she comes over, but she didn’t want to give him the opportunity to come up with an excuse not to talk to her. He says, about what? and she says she spoke with his uncle. He asks what Victor said, but she says, no, Cyrus. She went to visit him in Pentenville. He asks what possessed her to do that, and she tells him, Cyrus said he had some information about their family. It got her to wondering what else she doesn’t know. He says, about Cyrus? but she says, about him. Nikolas told her that he’d betrayed all the people he loved the most. Can he tell her what he meant by that?

Esme says, Elizabeth cares so much about this baby, yet won’t help her, even though Elizabeth knows she didn’t hurt anyone. Elizabeth says, maybe Esme didn’t kill anyone, but she hurt a lot of people, her son included. Esme says, so this is about revenge, but Elizabeth says, it’s not. The way she sees it, Esme has two options. She can stay in this tower or face prosecution for the slew of crimes she’ll be charged with if Elizabeth turns her in. Esme says, there’s a third option. Set her free so she can leave town and raise her baby. Elizabeth asks why she’d do that. It wasn’t that long ago Esme threatened a hunger strike, and refused to take her prenatal vitamins. Esme says, she’s desperate. Can’t Elizabeth see that? She swears she’ll take care of this baby, but she needs to be free so they can be safe. Elizabeth says, on the run, no family resources, constantly looking over her shoulder. How is that any safer than a roof over her head, nutritious meals, and consistent care? Esme says, because she won’t have to live with the fear that Nikolas will kill her as soon as she gives birth.

Sonny asks where Nina went just now, but she tells him not to pay attention to her. It’s a celebration, and she refuses to be a buzzkill. He says, she can tell him anything, and she says she was thinking about her brother and Nelle, and how now she doesn’t get to see Wiley anymore. Her family is very small, and the thought of losing Britt… He says he gets it. He lost his dad; he lost Brando. Now he can’t see Michael or Wiley. Michael is going to have another child, and is he not going to be able to see that child?  Probably not. She says, he has to pay a big price to have her in his life.

At Britt’s party, Sirens blare, and someone is brought out in a wheelchair. Drag queen Alyssa Edwards pops up, and spins around. She says, they’re all so hot, she may have smoke inhalation, and asks if there’s a doctor in the house. Brad says, yes, there is, and she loves to dance. He pulls Britt over, she and the Alyssa air kiss, and everyone starts to dance. I want to be at this party.  

Nikolas says, he and Ava have been struggling for months, but Laura says, this is not about Ava. That’s not a reason Spencer would turn his back on Nikolas. His son just got out of prison; that should matter to him. He should be spending time with Spencer tonight, working on their relationship. Where is Spencer? Does Nikolas know? Does he care? He says, of course (🍷) he cares, and she asks what he’s done for his son to alienate him. She does know it’s New Year’s Eve, right?

Elizabeth says, if Esme is worried Nikolas is going to harm her, that’s not the plan. Esme says, maybe not the plan he shared with Elizabeth, and Elizabeth tells her, lie back, preparing to listen to the baby’s heartbeat. She says, maybe Esme is judging Nikolas based on her own standards. She’s wrong about Nikolas, and wrong about her too. She’s not going to let anything happen to Esme. They listen, and she says, strong heartbeat. Esme smiles, and Elizabeth asks if she’s in any discomfort or pain. Esme says, no, and Elizabeth asks if she has any other concerns. Esme says, what if there are complications? but Elizabeth says, so far, her pregnancy is progressing typically. Esme says, so far, but she’s only seen one ultrasound since she’s been pregnant, and nothing since. Elizabeth says she’s assisted in a lot of births – three of her own –  and Esme doesn’t have to worry. Women have been giving birth since the dawn of time. Esme says, Elizabeth talks like she’s a patient in a maternity ward, and she’s not; she’s a prisoner. Elizabeth is right. She’s hurt people; people who didn’t deserve it, especially Cam. But what if Elizabeth is hurting the baby by helping Nikolas? Can she live with that?

Dex says, Sonny met with a representative from Pikeman Security Group, and Michael says, they’re military contractors. They do everything from weapon design to manufacturing logistics and private squads of soldiers. What do they want from Sonny? Dex says, they want to move their product through Port Charles; they want Sonny to facilitate. Michael says, Pikeman is paying Sonny to smuggle military weapons. That’s as illegal as it gets.

Trina says, maybe Spencer is the reason Esme came to Port Charles, but she’s responsible for the devastation she caused, for the lives she’s ruined, and the ones she’s taken… if it was Esme. He says, come again? and she says, Ava told her, Ryan is convinced Esme’s not the killer. He says, like they can trust a word Ryan… blinks, and she says, maybe not, but what if they’re wrong? What if Esme’s not the killer? What if it’s someone they never even suspected? Someone who could be on this ship with them at this very moment.

Britt puts her arms around Brad and Maxie, and asks where they got Alyssa. Maxie asks if she’s surprised, and Britt says, is she ever. She loves it all. She’s never going to forget this as long as she lives.

Austin looks at a waiter’s back, and says, it’s good he asked. It’s probably just a mole, but he’d get it checked out. The waiter moves on, and Obrecht asks if Austin is on the clock. Austin says, always. She knows how it is when people find out you’re a doctor. She says, that ends when you lose your license. She hasn’t always been his biggest fan, but he’s been a good friend to her daughter. She’s grateful. He thanks her for saying that. It’s been a pleasure getting to know Britt. She says she hopes it continues. Britt needs her friends now.

Terry asks Finn if Elizabeth is showing up later or… He says he’s really not sure, and she says, Elizabeth has been hard to pin down lately. She might have to page her at GH just to catch up. Is Elizabeth okay? He says he would be the wrong guy to ask.

Esme says, help her get away, so she can be free to raise her baby in peace, and Elizabeth says she was right. Esme does care about this child. Esme says she doesn’t know if she’s mom material. She can be selfish and willful, but she does know that even if neither of them is innocent, this baby is, and she wants to give him or her a better start in life than she had. Elizabeth starts to pack up, and says she’s going to ask Nikolas to order a portable ultrasound machine. Next time, maybe they can do a scan, and give Esme a picture of her baby. Esme asks, what if it shows something bad? and Elizabeth says, they’ll cross that bridge when they come to it. If they come to it. She doesn’t want Esme to worry. She heads for the door, and Esme says, why worry when life is so wonderful. Have fun at your party. Elizabeth leaves, and Esme smiles at the Christmas tree.

Nikolas says he’s let Spencer down many times, but Laura says, that doesn’t explain why he had such a big reaction to Nikolas being unfaithful to Ava. He says, Spencer is disappointed that he’s set such a poor example, and she says, unless it’s not that Nikolas had an affair, but who he had the affair with. Who is she? He says he doesn’t want to discuss it, and she says she doesn’t really want to discuss it either, but this has affected their whole family, so she’d like to know. Elizabeth says she’s leaving now, and stops short when she sees Laura. She tells Laura hello, and says she didn’t realize Nikolas had company. Laura says, that makes two of them, and tells Elizabeth that she looks beautiful. Elizabeth thanks her, and says she’s going to Britt’s party. She’s going to be late, so she’d better go. Laura says, stay safe, have fun. Maybe they can get together soon. They have a lot of catching up to do. Elizabeth says she’d like that, and tells them, goodnight and happy new year. Nikolas says, happy new year to her too, and thanks her for stopping by. She leaves, and Laura says, please tell her it’s not Elizabeth.

Dex tells Michael, the Pikeman rep, a guy named Hume, handed Sonny a briefcase full of cash just for showing up. Michael says, so Sonny draws the line at drugs, but he’s willing to ship weapons of war, and Dex says, there’s only two reasons people want to ship under cloak of darkness. Either what they’re moving is dirty, or what they’re moving is being supplied to dirty people. Michael says, in this case, both, and Dex says, this deal is extremely lucrative for Sonny, but also extremely dicey. Michael says, this is it. This is how they bring Sonny down. Dex says, this isn’t like busting Sonny on RICO violations. Pikeman had contractors in Afghanistan; they’re heavy hitters. Think twice before messing with them. Michael asks if Dex is backing out.

Sonny says, the other day, Nina was worried about how she didn’t want to get close to Donna, but Nina says she was just having a moment. She didn’t mean to be so maudlin. He says he’s been thinking about what she said; that she didn’t want to latch on to Donna to fill a void. She says, it’s actually kind of embarrassing, that whole conversation, and he says, isn’t that what loved ones are supposed to do for us? Fill that space inside of us when we lose somebody or feel alone? She says she supposes so, and he says, that’s what she did for him. She takes his hand, and says, that’s what he does for her. He says he wants her to latch on to him, Donna, and Avery. She’s got more family than she knows. She kisses him.

Laura says, Nikolas cheated on Ava with Elizabeth? but he says he told her he doesn’t want to discuss it. She says, too late; he already confirmed it. Does he have any idea how fragile Elizabeth is right now? He says, it’s over, but she says, it doesn’t matter if it’s over; the damage has been done. No wonder Spencer is so upset; she’s family. Her sons are his cousins. What was Nikolas thinking? He says he and Elizabeth have a past, and she says, it should have stayed in the past. She thought the two of them were just friends. Does Finn know? He says, he and Elizabeth hate that they hurt Finn and Ava. That’s why they wanted to keep it quiet. They don’t want to cause any more pain. She says, no one will hear anything from her. But don’t kid himself. Secrets like this are impossible to keep. He notices the list Elizabeth left on the desk.

Dex says he’s not looking for a way out, and Michael says, good, because he needs updates on every step of this partnership between Sonny and Pikeman. He means names, dates, shipping container numbers, bills of lading, all of that. Dex says he just wants to be sure Michael knows what he’s getting himself into. Any evidence they get against Sonny will also be evidence against Pikeman. Who even knows how many laws they’re breaking by shipping this stuff? If they connect it back to him and Michael, it could get messy.

As he lights the candles, Esme says, Demetrius didn’t forget a single detail of that special meal she told him about. He remembered everything. He says, she doesn’t have to feel alone, and she pats the spot next to her on the bed, saying, join me?

Spencer puts his jacket around Trina’s shoulders, and she says, thanks, but no one’s watching them. He asks if he can’t be a friend while at the same time being a gentleman. With all due respect to Ava, he does think Esme is the likeliest suspect. She says, okay, boss. All due respect to Ava? That must have been some talk they had. He says, he and ava are never going to like each other, but Ava cares about Trina, and he knows Trina cares about her. That he can respect. She says she has something to clear up. At her party, she said they’re not friends. He says he recalls, and she says she’s sorry. She didn’t mean it. She was upset and hurt… He says he’s glad to hear it. Not that she was upset and hurt, but that they can still be friends. He doesn’t have many of those. She says, he has her, Joss, and Cam – and Britt. That’s respectable. He says, that would be the first time he’s heard the word respectable applied to him, and she says, there’s a first time for everything. He says he really is grateful, especially since he hurt them all, Britt included. She says, Britt means a lot to him, huh? and he says, she was always there when he was a kid. She stuck by his side from his bratty juvenile shenanigans to the wreck of things he’s made since he got back. He and Britt have a lot in common. They tend to push away the people in their lives they so desperately need.

Britt dances with Brad, Maxie, and one of the waiters. She dances over to Obrecht, who tells her, be careful. Don’t over-do it. Britt asks if that’s not what tonight is for, and Obrecht says she’s glad Britt is enjoying herself, she can’t get over tired; it takes a toll. Britt tells her, mutter, stop worrying, but Obrecht says she is Britt’s mutter; it’s her job to worry about Britt. Britt says, not tonight. Tonight, her job is to have fun. Please. It’s important to her. She’s so happy Obrecht has Scotty. Life will never be dull with him. Sonny brings Nina over, and Nina says, Britt looks cover worthy. Sonny says, great party, and asks how Obrecht is doing. She says, all is well, and asks them to excuse her; mein Scotty needs me. Nina asks Britt to please tell her that she’s having the time of her life, and Britt says she is. She says, Nina doesn’t need to look at her like that, and Nina says, like what? Britt says, like she’s the walking dead.

Terry asks Finn, what’s going on? and he says he and Elizabeth broke up. She says, Elizabeth didn’t breathe a word, and he says he’s not surprised. It was sudden. She asks, what happened? and they see Elizabeth walk in. She and Finn look at each other.

Nikolas grabs the list, and throws it in a drawer. He tells Laura that it pains him that he’s disappointed her again, but she says, it’s okay. She’s just worried about Spencer. He just got out of prison, and he’s coming home to this chaos. Nikolas says he’ll be a better father going forward, and Laura says, if Spencer gives him the opportunity. He says, Spencer can’t completely distance himself. His release is contingent on Victor’s custody, and Victor insists on staying at Windymere. She asks if he’s saying Spencer is legally in Victor’s custody, and he asks if it matters. She says, oh my God, yes. Victor only acts in his own self-interest. Sooner or later he’s going to use Spencer. She can’t let that happen. He asks what she’s going to do, and she says, whatever it takes, but he says, she’s no match for Victor. Leave it alone.

Britt says, they don’t have to pretend. Her mother told her that she told them. Sonny says, we just never know how much time we have in life. Look at Jason. What matters is what we do with the time we have. Nina says, how we spend our time; who we spend our time with. She takes Britt’s hand, and says, this party was a great idea. Sonny says, Jason would want to see her getting all she can out of life.

Finn walks off, and Terry says, got anything she wants to tell her? Elizabeth says, maybe one or two.

Alyssa takes the mic, and says, ladies, gents, them/theys and anyone else here to slay. Tonight is about honoring that other infamous Queen B. The MD with the B-day, Dr. Britt Westbourne. Everyone applauds, and Alyssa says, Britt’s partner in wine Brad tells her, when they’re not busy reading red carpet fashion for filth or murdering mimosas, their favorite pastime is dusting their karaoke competition. We have a mic. We have a stage. We just need two showboats willing to serve. Come make some noise for Brad and The Britch. Britt and Brad take the stage to cheers and whistles, and Britt asks what they’re going to sing. He says, it’s handled, and the music starts. They sing I Knew You Were Waiting (George Michael). There are more cheers and applause.

Terry asks why she had to find out from Finn that he and Elizabeth broke up. Explain yourself, missy. Elizabeth grabs a shot off a tray going by, and downs it. Alyssa goes on stage, and says, okay boys. Show the birthday girl what you’ve got. The waiters bring out a cake with lit candles, and Brad tells Britt, don’t worry. They all know how much she hates the birthday song. Maxie says, but there’s one tradition they must insist on. She and Brad say, make a wish, and Britt goes over to the cake. She looks at everyone around her, and says, okay.

Michael tells Dex, just get the evidence against Sonny. He’ll make sure it gets into the right hands, and doesn’t implicate either one of them. Dex says, if they expose Sonny, Sonny will have a target on his back; with the law and Pikeman. Michael says, he’ll be better off in custody, and Dex says, if he’s convicted of the charges he’ll be facing, he’ll be in prison for a very long time, possibly forever. Is Michael prepared for that? Michael says he always knew what Sonny was capable of; torturing Dex was a new low. This, running weapons through a back channel for a military organization, is not the father he knew. He doesn’t want Sonny near his family. So to answer Dex’s question, forever’s fine with him. I guess collateral damage isn’t a term Michael is familiar with? Or maybe how anyone else might feel? Like Sonny’s kids? Michael pisses me off.

Nikolas tells Laura, for his sake, don’t antagonize Victor. Victor can accuse him of terrible things. Laura asks if Victor has proof, but Nikolas says he can’t get into it. She says, then she can’t help him, and he asks what she means. She says, it’s not just about him. She’s also very worried about Spencer. If he knows something, he should tell her. He says he can’t, and she says, why? Has Victor threatened him? He says, no one is at risk if they play Victor’s game. But if she takes down Victor, she takes him down. Leave it alone or she’ll lose her son.

Esme sits at a small table in front of her finished dinner, and tells Demetrius, the steak is delicious. She’s sorry he couldn’t join her. He says he’s glad she enjoyed it, and she raises her glass, saying, to kindness, found in the most unexpected places. She pretends to swallow the wrong way, and starts coughing. She gets up, Demetrius handing her a napkin. He goes to the door, unlocks it, and she thanks him. She says, it’s meant more to her than he’ll ever know. Happy new year. He says, happy new year in Greek, and blows out the candles. He takes the tray out, and she takes a matchstick out of her cardigan pocket. She says, and happy new year to us, Ace.

Trina says, they should head inside, but Spencer says, five more minutes. She says, nobody will see them on deck, and he says, the buzz can be that they stole some time alone. She says, they’ll assume she got emotional, and needed some air. He says, and he came out to check on her, and she says, and she leaned on him for comfort? He buttons the jacket on her, and says, and in some combination of heightened emotions, and the twinkling lights… She says, and the waves and stars, and his warmth as he held her. He says, it brought back all of those old feelings; the ones they never acted on. She says, and they felt like the only two people on earth.

Tomorrow, Austin tells Britt to change her mind and stay; Laura asks if Nikolas could have a clean slate, would he do it; Michael asks Willow to marry him; Sonny tells Nina, they’ve only just begun; and Sam says, what was that?

🩺 The Doctor’s Back In…

Andre has always been a favorite of mine. This storyline should be fun.

Anthony Montgomery on His Surprise Return to GENERAL HOSPITAL

His backstory, in case you didn’t know, or like me, forgot.

What Happened to Andre on GENERAL HOSPITAL

💎 Door Number Two…

I think it’s more likely the necklace was the reason. It at least factored heavily into the decision. I still wonder what he would have done had Felicia read the results.

Josh Kelly Explains Why Cody Lied to Mac on GENERAL HOSPITAL

🖼 Not Everything’s About You…

Next he’ll be picking on teenager’s bedrooms.

https://pagesix.com/2022/12/28/andy-cohen-claims-james-corden-copied-his-wwhl-set/

🎶 Light the Corners Of My mind…

Memorable or cringeworthy? You decide.

Memorable Bravo Moments Of 2022!

It still boggles my mind how they get away with some of this nonsense. It’s pretty bad when production has to step in.

5 Memorable Times Bravo Production Had To Step In On Camera

🥂 About New Year’s Eve…

If you’re brave, crazy, or both. I’ve never gone and never will. Back in the day, my roommate did the Times Square thing, while I went elsewhere. She told me that she could barely move, someone spilled beer on her, and someone peed on her shoe. Good times…

https://www.timessquarenyc.org/times-square-new-years-eve/nye-faq

Who will be there.

https://people.com/music/new-years-rockin-eve-times-square-performers-announced/

https://www.nashicon989.com/news/dick-clarks-new-years-rockin-eve-reveals-star-studded-lineup-of-performers/

No more for them.

Andy Cohen Says He “Won’t Be Drinking” During NYE Broadcast With Anderson Cooper

🎊 Dropping the Ball…

Tomorrow, join me for more of the same, and ending the year. Until then, stay safe, stay not driving while intoxicated, buzzed, or in any way impaired – there’s no excuse; take an Uber – and stay knowing, what matters is how we spend our time in life, because we just never know how much time we have.

Dec29

December 28, 2022 – Cyrus Offers His Help To Laura, Why He Left, NeNe Wants Grace, Avoidance, Captain Eddie, Continuing To Celebrate & Party

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Zaanse Schans, Netherlands. Anna and Valentin walk into a café. Valentin asks if she’s sure they’re not being set up, but she says she told him. It’s not just a former colleague; it’s an old friend. And here he is. Andre says, Anna Devane, it’s been far, far too long, and they hug.

Britt clinks a martini glass against a framed photo of her and Brad, then puts them both in a suitcase. She looks at a bracelet that says Britt on it, and puts that in too. She says she guesses this means she has plenty of room for clothes.

At Kelly’s, Ava says, it was a lovely memorial for Rory yesterday, and Trina agrees. She thanks Ava for being there, and Ava says, of course (🍷). She’d do anything to support Trina. Trina says she knows she can count on Ava, and Ava says, her question is, can Trina count on Spencer? She shows Trina her phone, and the article in The Invader with the picture of her, Spencer, and Laura, is on the screen.

As Spencer tries to get out the door, Victor says he’s glad he caught Spencer. Spencer tells Victor that he was just on his way… but Victor asks if Spencer will join him. He promises not to keep Spencer long, and then he can join his friends for the New Year celebrations. Although it’s a little early, isn’t it? He pours them drinks, and Spencer says he has some things to get done before Britt’s birthday party. Victor says he’s surprised Spencer is attending, and Spencer says, she was a good friend to him when he was a kid, and luckily, they’ve remained friends. Victor says, good. He was hoping Spencer would be available tomorrow afternoon. He was hoping to get the family together for a nice brunch to usher in the New Year. Spencer says, forgive him, but under no circumstances will he be having brunch with his father. He has every intention of turning 2023 into a fresh start for himself. Which means, once he moves out of Windymere, he hopes never to speak to or lay eyes on his father again.

Esme looks at her Christmas tree, and says, a definite fire hazard. Now all she needs is the spark. She hears keys, and jumps on the bed. Nikolas comes in, and she asks what she did to warrant a visit from her jailer. He says, her plan is not going to work.

Martin meets Laura in the Pentenville visitor’s room, and they hug. She says she’s glad to see he’s all right, and he says, none the worse for wear. She says, when he called her from a jail cell in Ireland… He says he can’t tell her how much he appreciates her riding to his rescue, and interceding on his behalf. She says, of course (🍷). That was very brave of him. He says, bravery had nothing to do with it. The last thing he expected when he went over there was to fall on his sword so that Anna Devane could get away. She laughs, and says she thinks he’s pretty lucky the WSB let him get away with just a fine. He says, something fishy about that. For all the good it did him. He went from one prison to another. She says, at least he’s not behind bars in this one. He didn’t have to come. He says, after all she’s done for him, did she think he’d let her face their wayward brother alone? What does she think he wants? The guard lets Cyrus in, and he says, sister. And is this his brother he sees before him? What a lovely surprise. The Lord has truly blessed him this day.

There’s a knock at Britt’s door, and Obrecht says, it’s her mutter; open up. Britt says, just a second, and tries to put the suitcase under the bed, but it doesn’t fit. Obrecht knocks again, and says something in German. Britt says, just hang on, shoving the suitcase in the other room, and opens the door. She asks what Obrecht is doing here. She thought they were meeting at the party. Obrecht says she thought Britt might need help getting ready. Is that how she’s wearing her hair? Britt says, yes. She’s decided brushing her hair is giving in to the patriarchy. Of course (🍷) she’s not wearing her hair like this. Obrecht says, thank Gott. What will she be wearing? Britt says, this, indicating the robe she’s in. It goes with the coiffure. Obrecht sees a garment bag, and says she found Britt’s regalia. Britt says she can’t wait to hear what’s wrong with it, but Obrecht gasps and says, it’s wunderbar. It’s just the tiniest bit wrinkled. She’ll hang it in the shower, turn it on, and see what happens. She nearly trips over Britt’s suitcase, and asks what Britt is doing with it.

Victor says he thought Spencer moved past this childish resentment of his father, but Spencer says, his father continues to top his previous transgressions. It’s one thing to let your family think you’re dead. It’s quite another to take advantage of a vulnerable woman. Victor says, come on. What Nikolas did might be inexcusable, but to characterize Esme as vulnerable… Spencer says he was talking about Elizabeth Baldwin, and Victor says, oh. Spencer says, Victor knew, and Victor says he did. Spencer asks how he can be okay with this, and Victor asks what there is to disapprove of. Nikolas and Elizabeth are consenting adults. Spencer says, everyone knows she’s been struggling. She checked herself in to Shadybrook. He’s sure she turned to Nikolas for comfort and support, and he used her trust to get her into bed. It’s disgusting. He hopes Cameron’s mother comes to her senses, and kicks him out of her life for good. Victor says, Spencer has to be realistic. There’s no way Elizabeth can cut ties with Nikolas now. Spencer asks, why not?

Esme asks, what’s his plan? and Nikolas says, Demetrius informed him that she barely touched her lunch, and she still hasn’t. She asks if he’s worried about her, and he says, the baby needs nourishment. She says she wasn’t hungry. Heartburn is a thing; look it up. He says, it will make her life a lot easier if she just accepts her situation, and she asks, what about her situation is acceptable? He says, if she wants something in particular, tell Demetrius, but he won’t tolerate a hunger strike. Eat her dinner, or he’ll get her a feeding tube. Don’t push him. He leaves, and she says, she’ll push Nikolas… right off a cliff.

Valentin says, Anna didn’t tell him that her contact was the esteemed Dr. Maddox. Andre says, If he’d known Valentin was going to be here, he might not have shown. Anna says, here’s the thing. She has to clear her name, and they also want to bring down Victor. So all of that is more important than past conflicts. She needs both their help. Call her selfish, but that’s what they’re going to focus on. Andre says, absolutely; anything he can do to help. Valentin says he’s sure Andre’s intentions are sterling, but he doesn’t see how a doctor – Andre says, a psychiatrist – can help them. Andre says he was thinking the same thing. What does Anna think he can do? She says, it’s not because of who he is now, but who he used to be.

Cyrus says, praise God that He has softened his brother’s heart enough to grant him this visit, but Martin says, God hasn’t softened anything. Cyrus says he understands Martin’s anger… Laura says, that’s great. The warden told her that Cyrus wanted to see her, so what does he want? Cyrus says, to warn her there’s a serpent in her garden, and she asks if they can skip the Biblical metaphors. Just tell her the name of the snake. He says, strings were pulled in order to arrange her grandson Spencer’s early release, and Martin says, early release usually requires some kind of string pulling. Cyrus says, unfortunately, all these strings lead directly back to Laura.

Britt says she decided to go on a little vacation, and Obrecht asks where she’s going. When is she leaving? Why doesn’t she have Britt’s itinerary? Britt says, a whole bunch of places, and she’ll send Obrecht postcards from when she gets there. To answer her remaining question, she’s flying out tonight after the party. Obrecht asks why this is the first time she’s hearing about this vacation, and Britt says, it was a spur of the moment idea, and she got a good deal. She also doesn’t need Obrecht’s permission; she’s a grown woman, even though tonight will be her first birthday party ever. Thank you for that. Obrecht says she didn’t have parties growing up, so she never threw any for Britt. She thought Britt was better off; that doing without such trivialities would make her stronger. She didn’t realize what Britt was missing. Britt says she was just kidding, and Obrecht says she knows she wasn’t the warmest mother when Britt was growing up, but she knew the world was tough, and needed Britt to be tougher, so she pushed Britt. It’s a miracle she grew into the magnificent woman she is. Britt is her miracle. Britt asks if Obrecht thinks for a second that she wouldn’t have the drive, the strength, and vastly superior skills she has, if Obrecht hadn’t drilled it into her? Obrecht says, a mother should be someone who inspires you, not someone you have to survive. Britt says, we are who we are. They’ve both changed for the better, and that’s good enough. Obrecht says she hasn’t changed enough, and Britt asks what she’s done. Who did she kidnap this time? Obrecht says, what she’s done is worse than a simple abduction. She betrayed Britt’s trust.

Ava says that she knows before Rory died, Trina was struggling with her feelings for Spencer, and Trina says, the last thing Rory said to her was that he meant it when he told her that he loved her. She was planning to break up with him. Ava says, she can’t control how she feels. Choosing to tell him was brave of her. Trina says, it feels kind of the opposite, and Ava asks if she’s told Spencer about her feelings, but Trina says, God no, and she can’t now. Ava says, that’s probably for the best. Just for now. Trina is grieving, and needs to give herself time to heal. Trina says she can’t heal until Rory’s killer is caught. This has to end. Esme needs to be stopped.

Cyrus says he worries about Laura’s political future if her constituents think she interfered with Spencer’s sentence, but Laura says, he doesn’t give a damn about her political future, and he knows she had nothing to do with Spencer’s early release. Spencer told her that Cyrus was here with him when Victor picked him up. Obviously, Victor is the one who arranged for the early release. Cyrus says, the three of them know the truth, but they also know, in politics, appearances can be more damning than the facts. Martin says, so Cyrus thinks Victor is trying to frame Laura for this, and Cyrus says, Victor has a lot of sway in Pentenville. It’s obvious from the way he was able to meet with Spencer in the prison library. They also know Victor never gets his own hands dirty. One of his agents did the actual work to get Spencer’s release. This agent also works for Laura. He’s sorry to tell her, but there’s a mole in the mayor’s office. Martin says, along with the snake, and Cyrus says, as her brother, he feels it’s his duty to warn her that her Deputy Mayor is working for Victor.

Andre says, the research he was doing was for the WSB. It was only later he discovered it was corrupted by the Cassadines. Anna says, Victor and Helena, and Andre says, yes, as well as her old nemesis, Liesl Obrecht. Anna says she more interested in his interactions with the Cassadines, in particular Victor. He says he had to give the occasional progress report on his various dealings. Does she need him to be more specific? She says, not with the dealings, but the communication. Did they come to him, or did he go to them? Andre says, he went to them, always the same place, and Valentin asks Anna if he thinks Victor is using the same location. She says, the WSB never found that particular base of operations, and Victor has no reason to risk moving that location because no one really remembers it… except Andre. So where is it?

Spencer asks Victor why Elizabeth should run, and Victor says, regardless of what happened, Nikolas and Elizabeth are bound together, and Spencer should support them. Spencer says he hopes Elizabeth snaps out of whatever led her to this lamentable lapse in judgement, but regardless, his father is no longer his concern. Victor says, Nikolas is Spencer’s family. He can’t just walk away. Spencer says, why not? Nikolas doesn’t want anything to do with him. Victor says, that’s not true, and Spencer says, then tell him why, when he told Nikolas of his plans to leave, Nikolas didn’t say he was proud of Spencer for being his own man. Victor says he must have misunderstood, but Nikolas walks in, and says, Spencer is right. He thinks it’s best if Spencer leaves Windymere. Victor says, that’s a ludicrous thing to say, and Spencer suggests the two of them talk it out. It’s no longer his concern. He leaves, and Victor asks why Nikolas isn’t fighting for his son, and Nikolas says, Victor doesn’t understand. Victor says he understands more than Nikolas thinks. Does Nikolas imagine a new baby will really give him a second chance?

Esme hears someone coming and gets back in bed. Demetrius comes in, and says, she needs to eat, but she says she guesses she’s sad. He asks if she has any requests for dinner; anything. How about a steak? She asks if he trusts her with a knife, but he says he’ll bring it pre-cut. She says, whatever, and he says, he’ll have the chef prepare something special. She smiles, and says, he’s been so nice to her, but what she wants doesn’t matter. Nikolas has made that perfectly clear. He starts to leave, and she says, actually, there is something she’d like.

Anna says, where in Paris? and Andre says, the 11th. He can’t tell them exactly where. Unfortunately, he was blindfolded every time he was taken there. Anna says, of course (🍷), but maybe some detail, a sound he heard, and he says, the place was like a fortress, security everywhere. He can’t give them the exact location, but the route was always the same. He got the sense they turned off a main boulevard, not a side street. She says, that’s a good place start, and Andre asks what Victor has done now, and Anna says, they think… they hope that’s where Victor is holding Lucy Coe, because he faked Lucy’s murder, and then framed her for it. So any help Andre can give would be greatly appreciated. Andre asks if the WSB is looking for the space, but Anna says, no. They’re working on their own. Andre says, so the two of them are going to infiltrate Victor Cassadine’s top secret base by themselves? Valentin says, piece of cake.

Obrecht tells Britt that it wasn’t her intention, but Scotty was away, and she was left alone with her fears. Britt tells her, just spit it out, and Obrecht says she told Nina about Britt’s condition. Britt says she’d rather Obrecht didn’t, but Nina is family. Obrecht says, and Sonny. She’s so sorry. Britt says, Obrecht told Sonny her deepest most personal secret? and Obrecht says, not really. She told Nina, and Sonny just happened to be there. It’s been so difficult keeping this terrible secret. Britt says, it’s her secret, and Obrecht says, Britt is her daughter. No matter what kind of mother she was, the mother she is now can’t tolerate her suffering. For what it’s worth (🍷), they promised not to tell anyone. She asks if Britt hates her.

Demetrius says, whatever Esme wants, he’s certain the chef can provide it, and she says, steak medium rare does sound delicious. But what she really wants is some company. Is there any way he can join her for dinner?

Nikolas asks how Victor found out about the baby, and Victor says, Ava told him. Nikolas asks what she said, and Victor tells him, not only was Nikolas having an affair with Elizabeth, she was also about to furnish him with a new heir. Congratulations, by the way. Despite the circumstances, another Cassadine is always a blessing. Nikolas says, Elizabeth had a miscarriage. Ava must not have heard when she talked to Victor, but she knows now. Victor says he’s sorry to hear that, and Nikolas asks why he was talking to Ava in the first place.  

Ava says she understands how much Trina wants justice for Rory… Trina says, and Ava, and Diane, and Brando, and even Oz Haggerty. If it wasn’t for him, she might be in prison right now. Ava says she knows the police are doing everything they can to find this killer, whether it’s Esme or someone else, and Trina flashes back to hatching a plan with Spencer to catch Esme. Ava asks what she’s thinking, and Trina says, that she’s going to follow her heart, and do what’s right. Ava says, no doubt, when Spencer walks in. Ava says, just remember, while she’s following her heart, she should also protect it. Spencer walks over to their table, and says he’s glad he ran into Trina. She thanks him for being supportive at the memorial, and Ava says she should be on her way, but Spencer says, if Ava doesn’t mind waiting, he’d like to speak to her alone.

Laura says, if Eileen is working with Victor, why does Cyrus care? and Cyrus says, she already knew this. She’s using Ashby against Victor. That is a bold move. She says, he still hasn’t answered her question, and he says, if it becomes public knowledge that the Deputy Mayor arranged for Spencer’s release, Ashby could easily say she was acting on Laura’s behalf. Laura asks why that sounds like a threat, and Cyrus says, because she doesn’t trust him. It saddens him, but he understands. But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently. Martin says, Cyrus best get comfortable. He’s going to be waiting a long time. Cyrus promises it’s not a threat; it’s a warning. She asks why he would warn her, and he says he reached out because they’re family. Victor Cassadine interfered with his family, and he has no intention of turning the other cheek.

Valentin wonders if there are any specific defenses other than armed guards, and Andre says, they entered the building via secured elevator underground. Despite being in the center of the city, the place is like a bunker. Anna says, they’ve gotten into tougher places than that, and Valentin says, they have? She says, they’ve certainly gotten out of them. She figures getting in will be easier. Andre suggests he go with them. He might remember something when he’s in the general vicinity. Valentin thanks him, and says, he’s been very helpful as it is, but Andre says he wasn’t not asking Valentin, and asks if Anna can really trust this guy.

Britt says she knows Obrecht wouldn’t betray her trust on purpose, and Obrecht says she swears, it just spilled out. Britt says she’s sorry. She didn’t realize keeping her Huntington’s a secret was taking such a toll on Obrecht. Obrecht says, I am the mutter; you are mein kind. She realizes she wasn’t there for Britt as a child…  Britt says, oh, she was there, and Obrecht laughs, and says, Britt knows what she means. But she is here now. Britt says, still, she’s sorry for all the pain she caused, but Obrecht says, no. She’s the one who should be sorry. Any pain she’s feeling is worth it. It’s worth anything to have Britt as her daughter.  

Victor says, Ava wanted to discuss the terms of her divorce, and Nikolas says, with Victor? Victor says, after finding out Nikolas had strayed, not only with Esme, but Elizabeth as well, does Nikolas blame Ava for wanting to come to him for advice? Word of warning. Don’t give his soon-to-be ex-wife more ammunition. Ava is out for blood.

Spencer asks if Trina wouldn’t mind giving him and Ava a moment alone. Then he’d like to talk to her about Britt’s party. Ava asks, what about Britt’s party? and Spencer says, he’ll explain, if she’ll listen. Trina says she’ll check in with Joss, and leaves. Spencer sits down with Ava, and she says she assumes this is about the trust fund, but he says, it’s not about money. It’s about something entirely different. She says, if he’s expecting any help from her about Trina… but he says, this has nothing to do with Trina. She says, if it were up to her… He asks her to shut up. He’s trying to apologize.

Demetrius says he’s Esme’s guard; it wouldn’t be right. She says she understands. It’s just, she’s so lonely up here in this tower, and it’s New Year’s Eve. Her favorite New Year’s Eve memory is when Spencer surprised her with a romantic dinner; candles, a single rose adorning the table. It made her feel so special. He says, Mr. Cassadine would not like it, and she says, probably not, but it is his duty to guard her. What better way to ensure she’s eating than to be in the same room? They can enjoy a candlelit dinner. He doesn’t say anything, and she tells him that she understands. She knows that’s probably not how he’d choose to spend his evening, but he says, it’s not that. She asks if that means he’ll consider it, and he says he will. She thanks him, and says, he has no idea how much this means to her.

Ava says, Spencer wants to apologize to her? and he says, if she’ll ever let him get around to it. He put her through hell because she broke a promise to him. He thought she wasn’t good enough for his father, but it turns out, his father wasn’t the man Spencer thought he was. And he’s sorry, because he never should have targeted her. No one deserves to be put through what he put her through. He knows they’re not going to be friends, and she says, certainly not… Nikolas let us both down. So what is this about Britt’s party? He says, Trina is going with him. He figures it’s better than her sitting at home alone missing Rory. He just wants to help her get through this. Ava says, then he’ll have to be a much better man than his father. If he lets Trina down in any way… He says he knows. He’ll answer to her. She says, he’s got that right.

Nikolas says he knows Ava will never forgive him, and Victor says he thinks Elizabeth would make a better match for him than Ava. She seems to be more malleable. Nikolas says, clearly, Victor doesn’t know Elizabeth. She may have her vulnerabilities, but she’s no push over. Victor says, even better, and Nikolas says, all Victor needs to know is that he trusts her. Victor tells him, just don’t make the same mistake as he did with Ava. Don’t trust her with any Cassadine family secrets.

Britt says, she and Obrecht have come a long way. Yes, there have been nicer, warmer, and fuzzier mothers, but there’s no one like her. And she means that in the best way. There’s no one more fierce, more protective, more loyal, more brilliant, and hilarious, and extraordinary. To be here with her, to celebrate and mourn with her, to forgive and be forgiven by her, to evolve with her. It’s no surprise she’s always been so protective of her heart, because there’s no one Britt has ever met that feels as deeply and as passionately as Obrecht does. It is an honor and an adventure – she takes Obrecht’s hand – to be her daughter. It’s a thrill ride, and she’s so glad Obrecht is her mom. Obrecht says, and she’s so proud to be blessed with such a strong, acerbically witty, beautiful and brilliant daughter. Not only a doctor – just like her mutter – but Chief of Staff – also just like her mutter. Britt says, Co-Chief, and Obrecht says, only because Monica Quartermaine is an idiot. Britt says, Monica is a savvy and brilliant woman. And if Obrecht ever repeats that… Obrecht says, she could never, not without choking. Britt says, unfortunately, she won’t be able to do this job much longer, and Obrecht says, when Britt falters, she’ll be there to see that Britt soars again. That is her promise to Britt. Britt will not go through this alone. She’ll be by Britt’s side for everything. Britt says, ich liebe dich, and Obrecht says she loves Britt too.

Valentin says, Andre’s not questioning his motives, is he? and Andre says, he is a Cassadine. Helena used to talk about him all the time. He was the one person she really seemed afraid of. Valentin says, Andre is flattering him, but Andre says, not at all. He’s simply stating, he knows Valentin’s reputation. He knows how dangerous Valentin is. Valentin says, Andre has no idea, and Anna says, all right. Valentin’s dangerous. Andre’s dangerous. She’s dangerous. The three of them are threats to the common good, but they’re all trying to be better, aren’t they? She trusts Andre’s intel; she trusts Valentin with her life 

Laura says, so Cyrus wants to take Victor down? and Martin says, only one bully in the playground, right? Cyrus says he wants to protect his family. He will be an enemy to their enemies, and oppose those who oppose them, and Martin says he knew Cyrus would circle around to the Old Testament sooner or later. Laura asks if Cyrus is suggesting they work together, and Cyrus says he thinks they’re stronger together. He has resources she doesn’t; can do things she can’t. Laura says, he means, that she won’t, and he says, she’s a fair person. Doesn’t she think it’s fair that Victor pay for Luke Spencer’s death?

Alone with Valentin, Anna says, she told him that she vouches for Andre. Valentin says he doesn’t trust anyone who’s willing to get involved with the Cassadines. She asks if he wants to run that by her again, and he says, she knows what he means. He didn’t have any choice; he was born into this family. Tell him again why Andre is willing to help them. She says she’s sure he has a lot of reasons to hate the Cassadines. Besides, wouldn’t Valentin want to help someone who said they were going to bring down Victor? He says he would if it was her. He’d do it in a heartbeat.

Esme looks at the tree, and says, not very fancy, but oh so flammable. She tells Ace that she only needs one more thing to make her escape. And Demetrius is going to provide it.

Nikolas tells Victor, don’t worry. He’s not going to share any of his Cassadine secrets with Elizabeth. Victor says, good. Elizabeth may be a loyal friend, but she’s not family. Don’t let her too close. Nikolas says, that’s not going to happen, and Victor says, from now on, he thinks it’s best he deal with Ava in regards to the divorce. They seem to have developed a kind of rapport. Nikolas says, that’s fine by him. He has his hands full enough. Victor says, anything he can help with? and Nikolas says, he’s just trying to figure out the mess he’s made of his life. Victor says he knows it seems like Nikolas is on a long road right now, but from where he stands, it looks like Nikolas is headed in the right direction. Soon his marriage to Ava will be behind him. Nikolas says he can’t pretend to be happy about that, and Victor tells him, just remember, he’s meant for much better things… So is Ava.

Ava and Trina wish each other a happy New Year, and Ava tells Spencer to be good. She leaves, and Trina thanks Spencer for telling Ava about the party. She was working up to telling her. Spencer says, there’s no reason Trina should suffer Ava’s questions and judgement when he’s here to take the brunt. She says, how gallant, and he says, besides, the whole reason they’re doing this is to get people to talk. Wherever Esme is hiding out, she’ll be furious if she thinks they’re together. Unless of course (🍷), Trina’s changed her mind. Then he’ll go back to his original plan, and try to lure Esme out of hiding by himself. She says, no. We said we were going to do this together. He says, we? She’s the one who said that. He just knew better than to argue with her. She says, he’s finally learning, and he says, just so she knows he can handle it. She doesn’t have to help him. She says, yes, she does… even if it means pretending to enjoy his company, and he says, when Esme does come after them, they’ll be ready.

Britt comes out in an amazing black sparkly dress, and Obrecht says, she looks absolutely atemberaubend. Britt says, she looks underfed? and Obrecht says, no, atemberaubend – stunning. Britt says, Obrecht is right. She does, doesn’t she? Obrecht says she’s always right, especially when it comes to Britt’s beauty. She suggests they take a picture to remember the moment, but Britt says she doesn’t need a picture to remember. Obrecht says, come, and they stand together. Obrecht tells Britt, say happy birthday, they do, and Obrecht snaps the picture.

Cyrus says he’s offering Laura justice for the father of her children, but Laura says, he’s talking about vengeance. He says, what if he is? Isn’t she entitled to that as well? Martin asks, is it Deuteronomy or Romans where the Lord says, vengeance is Mine, and Cyrus says, both. Laura says she doesn’t think this is about justice or vengeance. She thinks Cyrus wants to use her to get rid of Victor. Cyrus says, the Lord will fight for you; you need only be still. Laura says, but vengeance isn’t his, because he’s not God. She and Martin get up, and Cyrus says he’s really enjoyed their little family reunion. Happy new year, sister. I’ll be right here when you need me.

Tomorrow, Finn tells Terry that he’d be the wrong guy to ask; Trina says she has something to clear up; Nikolas tells Laura, if she takes down Victor, she takes him down; and Britt says, happy birthday to me, and a shirtless waiter offers her a drink.

🏥 Confusing Exit…

Wow. Two radically different stories. This sounds more like backtracking, but who knows?

The Real Reason Marcus Coloma Left GENERAL HOSPITAL

🍑 More Confusion…

This woman is becoming the NeNeCoaster. Five minutes ago, she was suing the network and accusing Andy of being racist, and now she wants back on the show? I just don’t get it.

https://pagesix.com/2022/12/27/nene-leakes-shares-tweet-about-grace-to-make-rhoa-return/

🌬 Toxicity Be Gone…

But how is she going to avoid herself?

Teresa Giudice Vows To Avoid “Toxicity” In 2023 Amid Feud With Brother Joe Gorga

⚓️ Below Deck Begot…

Apparently, he’s redeemed himself since the Rocky days.

Below Deck Alum Eddie Lucas Shares Career Update; Says “I’m The Captain Now”

🎄 Not Done Yet…

I like to milk the holidays as long as possible.

https://people.com/celebrity/christmas-2022-how-stars-celebrated-photos/

https://www.whitehouse.gov/holidays-2022/

👶🏽 In With the New…

Join me tomorrow for soap, tea, and music. Until then, stay safe, stay not feeling pressured to celebrate on New Year’s Eve, and stay remembering, while following your heart, you should also protect it.

Dec28

December 27, 2022 – Carly Sabotages Drew’s Sleuthing, This Year’s Loss, Overstayed, No More Salt, Celebrating Sobriety, He’ll Be Back, Christmas Pets (!) & My Year

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Drew catches Carly outside the gatehouse, and gives her a quick kiss. She asks him, what’s in the box? and he says, hopefully, the answer to finding Willow’s birth parents.

Inside, Michael asks if Willow is okay. Did she have enough to eat? She asks if it matters. It’s not like it’s going to stay down. Michael hugs her.

Britt says, if Cody is here to lobby for an invite to her party… He says he’s not. He hasn’t been honest with her, and intends to fix it right now.

Maxie sees Brook at the hospital, and asks if that’s the BLQ who saved Christmas, but Brook says, don’t hug her; she’s sick. Maxie says, with what? The flu? Bronchitis? Strep? Her kids have had everything. Brook says she doesn’t know, but she feels like hell. She has zero energy, she can’t sleep, and has this huge headache. She’s hoping the doctor can prescribe something to get rid of it. Maxie asks when her appointment is, and Brook says, not soon enough. Maxie says she can wait with Brook. It’s the least she can do, since she got Maxie to Georgie in time for Christmas. Brook says, with a major assist from Maxie’s ex, and Maxie tells her that she can say his name; she’s fine. Break-ups are hard, especially around the holidays, but she doesn’t have to tell Brook that, does she?

Chase walks into the MetroCourt restaurant, when his phone dings. He sees a text from Dante that says: The CCRB review your case at the Q2 2023 meeting.

At a table, Sasha tells Gladys, when that engine came to life, it was like an actual Christmas miracle. Then the fact that Britt used it to go to the Quartermaines’ to deliver a baby? Gladys says, Brando would be so proud, and Sasha says, he would be so thrilled to know his motorcycle helped someone, but Gladys says, she meant Brando would be proud of her. She is. Sasha takes her hand, and says she’s proud of Gladys too. The way Gladys has stepped up for her, she doesn’t know how thank Gladys and tell her how much it means to her. Gladys says, they’ve come a long way, and Sasha says she bets Brando is looking down on them now and smiling. Gladys says she misses him, and Sasha says, her too.

Sonny, Dex, and Frank walk into a hotel room (not the start of a joke), and Dex asks if the party Sonny is meeting is bringing their own security. Sonny says, that’s why he brought Dex and Frank. Hope for the best, prepare for the worst.Dex says, and if the worst happens? and Sonny says, then they make them regret they ever crossed him. Dex asks, who exactly are they dealing with? and Sonny says, a group that wants to run exports through Port Charles. That’s all Dex needs to know. There’s a knock at the door, and Frank answers. A man with a briefcase walks in, and says, he came alone, but Frank checks the hallway before closing the door. The man introduces himself as Roman Hume. He knows Sonny is a busy man, and doesn’t want to waste his time. He suggests they get started, and they sit. Sonny says, first and foremost, he doesn’t negotiate. If they want to do business with him, they follow his rules. Roman says, or what? and Sonny says, he doesn’t want to find out.

Brook asks how Maxie knew she and Chase broke up. Has she talked to him? Maxie says, Nina told her that Chase ended up performing at Gingerbread Jam, from which she deduced he wasn’t hurt or sick. Which led her to believe something went down with the two of them for Brook to think he wasn’t coming. Brook says, that’s some sleuthing, and Maxie says, unless her relationship radar is on the fritz. Brook says she wishes. Unfortunately, it’s spot on. Maxie asks when it happened. Sometime around Thanksgiving? Brook asks how she knew that, and Maxie says, Brook was putting on a pretty good face at work, but she could tell something was going on. So what did Brook do? Brook says, what makes Maxie think it wasn’t Chase who messed up? and Maxie says she loves Brook, but Chase is basically a Boy Scout in a man’s body. Brook says, he’s not that innocent; he cheated on Willow. Maxie says, that was fake to get Wiley away from Nelle. Brook says, Maxie’s right. Chase is like the most selfless person on the planet, and she’s not. How delusional was she to think she could hold on to him?

Gladys looks in her compact mirror, and says she still can’t believe she owns actual diamond studs. What a Christmas gift, from the best daughter-in-law. Sasha says, they look fabulous on her, and Gladys says, they really do, don’t they? Chase comes by, and says he’s sorry to interrupt. He just wanted to say hi. Sasha starts to introduce him, but Gladys says, Harrison Chase, former detective turned pop star. She saw his performance at the Gingerbread Jam. Downloaded the new single right away. She sings, ♫I’ll find a way to you…♫ and says, catchy. Chase says he appreciates that, and Gladys asks if he’d like to join them, but he says he’s here to pick up a to-go order. She says, at least let her get him a mimosa while he waits, on her way back from powdering her nose. She won’t take no for an answer. She leaves, and Chase sits down. Sasha says, look at him all famous. She guesses she’ll have to say she knew him when.

Selina sees Gladys on her way to the bathroom, and says, just the woman she was looking for. Wow. I always admire how fashionably and impeccably dressed Selina is, and it looks like she forgot to comb her hair.

Britt says she doesn’t have time for this conversation. She has important party prep to plan, but Cody says, hear him out, and she’ll never have to see him again. She says, that is an offer she can’t refuse, and sits at her desk. She says, any day now, and he says he asked her to hear him out, and now he doesn’t know where to start. She says, the beginning works, and he says, when they first met, he was playing her. He had zero romantic interest in her. She tells him, wow. Don’t sugarcoat it, and he sits down, saying, she was just this uptight drunk girl that he crashed into when he was parachuting into a pool. She’s beautiful, but he tends to date girls who are more chill. She asks if there’s a point here somewhere, and he says, then he found out something that did make him more interested in her; her father. Suddenly, she became the key to changing his life, in more ways than one.

Drew says, Carly remembers Brian, right? and she says, his reporter from Claiborne County? Drew says, he did a deep dive into the county’s records, and found a photograph that was actually taken at the commune. She says she’s surprised there are any photographs of that place, and he says, there aren’t many, but there was a photojournalist who was trying to do a story on the place, and got shut out, but managed to get a photo of Josiah, the commune leader. He hands her a photo, and says he had Brian do a background check on all the Josiahs in the tri-state area that matched around the same age. Unfortunately, there was no evidence any of them were part of the commune. So their best bet is to compare their photographs with the one of Josiah. Carly says, and see if they’re a match, and Drew says, it’s their best bet of finding this guy and seeing what he knows about Willow’s birth.

Wiley asks if they’re going sledding, but Willow says, not today. He says, but she promised, and she says, they’ll go another day, okay? She and daddy have to go to the doctor now. He says, they’re always at the doctor, and Michael says he’ll take Wiley sledding when they get back. Wiley says he wants mommy to come too, but Willow says she can’t today. Wiley screams, no doctor! I want to go sledding now! just as Carly and Drew walk in.  

Cody tells Britt that he’d heard the name Faison, but had no clue he had kids, just that Faison was an associate of his father’s. She says, Leopold Taub, and he says he realized her father may have had some of Taub’s possessions, in which case they belonged to her, so he decided to get close to her. She asks if this was before or after they matched on Society Set-Ups, and he says, before. Spinelli matched them because he asked Spinelli to. She says, just like that, out of the goodness of his heart, but Cody says he didn’t really give Spinelli a choice. She says, AKA, Cody blackmailed him, and Cody says he knew Britt wouldn’t give him a chance if they didn’t. She says, okay. This proves more or less what she already knew. It certainly doesn’t change anything. So what is the point of this big confession?

Maxie says she’s not condoning what Brook did, but she’d be lying if she said she didn’t get it. Brook says, Maxie doesn’t think she’s a horrible person? and Maxie says, Brook knows she’d never think that of her, especially after what Brook did for her and Bailey. Brook bets Chase would disagree, and Maxie says, playing God with his future was probably not the best idea. Brook says, now the universe is paying her back; she probably has some rare disease. Maxie thinks Brook is being a little hard on herself. Did Brook make a mistake? Yes. Is she human? Also yes. Brook says she kept hoping Chase still might come around, and Maxie says, he might, but Brook says, Chase has made it abundantly clear their relationship is strictly professional. Karma is real. Her mystery fever got way worse after that. Maxie feels Brook’s forehead, and says, she doesn’t feel hot, but Brook says she meant it metaphorically. Maxie says, so no fever? and Brook says she’s actually having super weird symptoms. Maxie says, this is more serious than she thought.

Chase says, it was good to see Sasha again on Christmas Eve, and she says, it was good to see him too. He asks how the holidays have been, and she says, he means without Brando? He says, that time of year can be hard in general, but add to it what she’s been through… She says, it’s been a struggle, but she’s okay. It’s funny. While Brando and Liam have been on her mind, she’s also been aware of how lucky she is, surrounded by the love of friends and family. She’s barely had a chance to feel lonely. He says he’s glad, and hopes he’s included in the friends and family. She says, he is, and he tells her, if she every needs to talk, if she needs anything, he’s here. She thanks him, and he says he hopes it doesn’t sound out of bounds, but she seems good; like in a more stable place. She says she is. She’s really trying to get better. Not just for her; for Brando. He only ever wanted the best for her. For her to be whole, happy, healthy, and pursue her dreams, whatever they may be. Brando didn’t care if she was a model or veterinary assistant, as long as she was happy. Little by little, she’s finding her way, and learning to trust herself again. It feels good. He asks if that means the guardianship will be over soon.

Gladys asks how Selina’s holiday was, and Selina says, it could have been better, seeing as how Gladys owes her money. Gladys says, about that… but Selina says, don’t worry; she understands. She’s not an unreasonable woman. Gladys says she really is sorry. The last couple poker games she was at, things just got away from her. She swears it’s just bad luck. Selina says, Gladys’s luck is of little concern to her. Gladys’s debt, on the other hand, is. So should they discuss when Gladys intends to pay her back?

Michael says, Wiley is in his room for time out. He told Wiley that he can’t talk to his mother that way, no matter how disappointed he is. He tells Carly, what a welcome, huh? and hugs her. He thanks her for coming on such short notice; Melanie had a family emergency. Carly says she cherishes any time with her grandson, and Michael says, even when he’s acting out? She says she remembers how Michael was when she was pregnant with Morgan, and he says he was angelic, he’s sure. She says, Wiley probably sees all the attention the baby is getting, and he’s wondering if any is going to be left for him. She thinks it’s pretty normal. Drew says he comes bearing good news. While they’re at the doctor, he and Carly are going to be working on finding Willow’s birth parents. Willow says she couldn’t believe it when he told her the news, and can hardly believe it now. Her birth family may still be out there. She thanks Drew, and says she appreciates everything both of them are doing, but he says, no thanks needed. Michael says, they should go, and Carly asks, how long is Wiley in jail? He says, 30 minutes; text if she needs anything. She tells them to take their time, and they leave. Drew says, time to get to work.

Roman says, no disrespect intended, but there’s always room for negotiation in business. Sonny says, if they’re going to move potentially dangerous material through his territory, he’s going to need assurance, and Roman says, they acknowledge the Corinthos organization holds these ports. Their goal isn’t trouble with him; merely to ship their goods using his facilities. His superiors need assurances from him too. Sonny says, tell him what they are, and he’ll see if he can accommodate them, and Roman says, their biggest concern is discretion. They need to know the details of their operation won’t be leaked. Sonny says, discretion is mutual. He doesn’t want any blowback to him or his organization. And he doesn’t want anything to happen to any innocent civilians. Meet those conditions, and they won’t have a problem. Roman opens the briefcase, and Dex puts his hand on his gun. Roman turns the case toward Sonny, and we see it’s filled with stacks of money. Roman asks if this is enough assurance for Sonny, and Sonny says, it’s a start.

Gladys tells Selina, like she said, it was a streak of bad luck. She can recoup her losses in no time, if Selina will just have her back. Selina says, of course (🍷) she will. She’s thrilled Gladys is enjoying her poker games. The other players say she has a knack of livening up the room. Gladys says she loves those guys; they have a lot of fun. Selina says, so she’ll see Gladys at the next one? and Gladys says, the truth is, she’s running low on cash. Add that to what she owes Selina… Selina says, perhaps they can work something out.

Sasha tells Chase that she’s definitely headed in the right direction, but she doesn’t think she’s quite at the finish line yet. And shockingly, things have been pretty good with Gladys at the helm. She was nervous at first. The thought of a guardianship without Brando seemed impossible. He was pretty much the only one she trusted with her life. He says, Gladys is doing a good job? and she says, better than good. It’s actually brought them closer together. He says, who would have thought? and she says, not her. She just wishes it didn’t take a tragedy to make it happen. He says, life is kind of bizarre that way, isn’t it? Sometimes it takes something horrible to make you appreciate everything you had to begin with. She says, just so there’s no misunderstanding, he has her. She’ll always be in his corner. He says, right back at her.

Drew and Carly compare a photo, and Drew says, this is definitely not the guy. Carly wonders if they’re wasting their time looking for Josiah. What are the odds Harmony told him anything? He says, they’re running out of options. He already did a search on babies and pregnant women that went missing in the tri-state area, and he got nothing there. He doesn’t understand how a child disappears with no record of it. His phone rings, and he says, this is Aurora; he has to take this. He goes into the other room, and Carly compares the next photo. It’s a match, and she says, well, hello Josiah.

Cody says he’s telling Britt this because he’s hoping maybe to convince her to give them another chance. Britt laughs, then says, sorry; that just came out. What she meant to say is, why would she? He lied to her. He manipulated her… He says he knows, and he’s so, so sorry for all of it. He knows people say this all the time, but it’s true. If he could go back, he would. The more time he spent with her, the more he enjoyed it, enjoyed her. Who wouldn’t? She’s incredible. There’s no excuse for his actions. She says, no there isn’t, and he says he did start developing real feelings for her. By the time they found the necklace, he almost didn’t care about it anymore. She says, almost, and he says, what he really cared about is her. He didn’t know what to do. All of a sudden, the thing he’d been chasing was standing right in front of him, and he just let it go; it didn’t feel right. He didn’t want lose her either. She says, he wanted to have his cake and eat it too, and he says, the joke was on him because he ended up losing both. Unless he didn’t. He sees now how wrong his actions were; how his agenda came between them, and the real thing. What they were building was the real thing, and he thinks they could get back to if she’d let them. Unless he’s off base, and she disagrees that what they were building between them was real. She says, it was, and there’s a part of her that wishes they could get it back. He says, then just listen to that part, and forget the rest, but she says she can’t. He used her. He says he knows it’s messed up, but doesn’t it count for something that he’s owning it? She says, it does. The fact that he came to her with his heart on his sleeve, that takes guts, and she appreciates it. He says, but it’s not enough, and she says, just so they’re clear, she knows what it’s like to make mistakes, huge life-altering ones. She’s not being hypocritical here; she just can’t. He tells her, she keeps saying can’t like there’s something keeping them from giving this another shot. From where he’s standing, it’s just him and her. So what is it? What’s keeping them from seeing how good they could be together?

Maxie asks how long Brook hasn’t been feeling well, and Brook says, it’s been a while. She remembers feeling particularly bad the day Chase ended things. As if life wasn’t crappy enough, she had to get sick on top of it. Maxie asks what her symptoms are, aside from no energy, headaches, and lack of sleep, and Brook says she’s basically lost interest in everything, even things she loves, like her job. Maxie says, good to know. What else? Brook says, her chest is all tight, she has a stomachache, and her eyes are all watery; she’ll just start crying out of nowhere. She read online that could be a sign of pesticide poisoning. Does Maxie think Olivia is sneaking in non-organic products? Maxie says she doesn’t think Olivia is Brook’s problem, and Brook says she’s not pregnant if that’s what Maxie is thinking. Maxie says she wasn’t going to go there, and Brook asks, then what’s wrong with her? Maxie says, Brook isn’t sick; she’s in love.

Sasha asks if Chase is going to tell her what happened between him and Brook at the Gingerbread Jam, and he asks, what makes her think something happened? She says, they were all worried he wasn’t going to show for the performance, and then there he was at the last minute. He says, very astute, and she says she tries. He says he found out that Brook did something for him, and she says, very vague. He says he tries. Brook finally submitted a letter on his behalf to the CCRB. She says she thought the meeting already happened, and the Board made their decision, and he says, it did, but apparently they read the letter anyway, and agreed to revisit his case. She says, that’s amazing, and he says, that’s no guarantee, but who knows? At least there’s still a chance. She says, thanks to Brook, and he says, it appears that way. She says, so… Does that change things for him, knowing what Brook did?

Selina takes Gladys’s hands, and says, Gladys has dug a deep hole for herself, with no means to repay it. Gladys takes out her earrings, and says, what about… These should cover part of it, right? Selina says, they aren’t cubic zirconia? but Gladys says, they’re the real deal. Selina takes the earrings, and Gladys says, andif Selina will just extend her credit for one more game, she’ll win back the rest. Selina says she’d be happy to, and Gladys says, she would? Selina says, of course (🍷). How else will Gladys break that bad luck streak? But be warned. Her line of credit is only good for one game. After that, all bets are off… pun intended.

Carly compares the pictures, and says, that’s definitely him. She takes the background check with the photo attached, and puts it in her bag. Drew comes out, and says, Carly? She says she was just getting her lip balm; her lips were dry from the cold. He says, they felt soft to him, but she says, now they’re better. He kisses her, and says he believes she’s right. How long did Michael say Wiley’s time out was? She says, 30 minutes, and he kisses her again. She says she doesn’t want Wiley to come down and see something he shouldn’t, and he says, she’s right. They need time together, completely alone. Meanwhile, any luck when he was on his call? She says, unfortunately, no. They knew it was going to be a long shot. He says, it doesn’t make any sense. How does a child go missing, and no one files a report? If it was his child, he’d be banging on doors, and calling up news stations trying to find his kid. It’s as if this baby vanished and nobody gave a damn. She says, their theory, that Harmony took Willow from her parents, is just that; a theory. Maybe something else happened. He says, like what? This guy – he picks up Josiah’s photo – is the only answer, and who knows where he is? it’s almost like there’s another angle, and they’re not seeing it. Carly says, they’re going to have to put a stop to this.

At the hospital, Willow tells Michael that she really wants to go home; she’s exhausted. He says, this is important, and brings her over to the infant viewing window. He tells her, look at the newborns. She says, they’re beautiful, and he says, in the not too distant future, one of them will be theirs. And they’re going to be standing here not thinking about cancer or chemo, but how perfect their little girl is. Willow says, she’s going to be perfect, and he says, just look at her mom.

Brook tells Maxie, that’s ridiculous. She’s not in love. Does she care about Chase? Yes, a lot, but they haven’t been together long enough for her to fall in love. Maxie says, it doesn’t take long, and Brook says, a couple months, but Maxie says, they’ve been together longer than that. Brook faked having his baby, they lived together, Chase punched out two guys for her. Brook says she remembers, and Maxie says, now he’s gone and Brook feels terrible. Brook says, it’s the hardest she’s ever taken a break-up. The guilt she feels over hurting Chase is next level, and this feeling of emptiness; she can’t shake it. Oh God. She’s in love with Chase. Maxie says, Brook tells her like she didn’t say that exact thing to her, and Brook says she guesses she’s never been in love before. That’s so sad. Maxie says, it is, but she thinks Brook was waiting for the real thing. Brook says, she finally finds it, and promptly throws it away. Does Maxie think Chase is in love with her too?

Chase says, he and Brook are done, and Sasha says, so he showed up at the Gingerbread Jam as a thank you? He says, and because it was the right thing to do. He made a promise to Brook to help take down her ex-manager. Not just for Brook’s sake, but for every up and coming artist he intends to prey on. And he’s committed to see it through. She says, sounds like the Chase she knows. So is Brook clear on where they stand? He says he told her their relationship was strictly professional, and they will never be in a romantic relationship again, but Sasha says, never say never.

Roman and Sonny shake hands, and Roman says, they’ll be in touch about getting things underway. Sonny says he’s looking forward to it, as long as the conditions are met, and Roman gives Sonny the briefcase. He leaves, and Sonny gives the briefcase to Frank, saying, he knows what to do with this. Frank takes it and leaves, and Dex says, that’s not how he expected this meeting to go. Sonny asks what he was expecting, and Dex says, for starters, he didn’t think the guy would show up alone. Sonny says, these guys are confident. They’re smooth. That’s why they have to keep an eye on them. Dex says he was also surprised to see the guy was ex-military, and Sonny asks how he knows that.  

Britt tells Cody that she didn’t even want to use the stupid match-making service. Her mother got a subscription to Society Set-Ups, and then nagged her until she used it; she just finally caved. He asks if she regrets it, and she says, if he’s asking if she regrets meeting him, no. But this – her voice breaks – just wasn’t meant to be. Maybe if things were different… She cries a little, and he says he gets it. He made one too many mistakes; maybe more than one too many. She says, for the record, it means a lot that he came to her, even if it doesn’t change anything. She tells him, goodbye, opens the door, and leaves.

Drew tells Carly, he can’t stop. He promised Willow that he’d find her birth parents. She says she doesn’t mean stop for good. They can just take a little break, then come back to it with fresh eyes. He asks, what kind of break are they talking about? and she says she remembers a certain someone gave her a key for Christmas. He says, that does ring a bell, and she suggests they use that key, and get away. Go somewhere where they can be alone, and do what they want. He says he’s seeing real wisdom in this plan, and they kiss. She says she’s going to check on Wiley, and goes upstairs. Drew calls Brian, and says he wasn’t able to determine Josiah’s identity, so he needs Brian to question every Josiah in the area. And do not stop until he finds the right one.

Michael says he knows he and Willow are going through a dark time right now, but there’s light at the end of the tunnel. She tells him, when he says it, she actually believes it. He says, believe it. He loves her. She says she loves him too, and he says, and Wiley loves her, and their daughter loves her. Is she sensing a theme here? She says, that’s a lot of love, and he says, there’s nothing more important in the whole world. The four of them have a long life ahead of them, full of joy, hope, and laughter. He needs her to not lose sight of that. She says she won’t if he doesn’t, and he says, deal.

Britt meets Selina in a private lounge area at the MetroCourt, and Selina says, she’s late. Britt says, sorry; she was held up. Did Selina get it? Selina says she did, but it’s going to cost Britt.

Sasha says, she’s just telling Chase that it’s not outside the realm of possibilities that he and Brook get back together, but he says he’s not there yet. And honestly, he doesn’t know if he ever will be. She says, fair enough. Whatever the future holds, she has faith it will all work out for the best. He deserves it. He says, her too, and they hug.

Maxie tells Brook that she can’t speak for Chase, but as an outside observer, he did step up for her time and time again. If he wasn’t in love with her, he certainly cared – a lot. Brook says she’s the worst, and Maxie says, there is a silver lining. Now that Brook knows how she feels, there’s only one thing to do. Brook says, go to the store, and stock up on ice cream, but Maxie says, no. If Brook really loves Chase, she’s got to win him back.

Gladys comes back, and Sasha says, that was a long trip to the bathroom. Everything okay? Gladys says, yes. She just got sidelined by a phone call. Is Sasha ready? Sasha says she’s just got to check on a friend real quick, and then they can go. She leaves, and hostess Trish brings the check. Gladys takes out Sasha’s credit card. I think we know where her thought process is going.

Britt tells Selina that she’s prepared to hold up her end of the bargain. After tomorrow night, Selina has her word, she’ll never see Brad again. Selina says, Britt has given her word before, and turned on her. How does she know it won’t happen again? Britt says, Selina has that information over her. If Britt double-crosses her, Selina can release it. Selina gives her an envelope, and says, it’s everything Britt asked for. Britt takes out a passport, and driver’s license with the name Rita Jenkins on them, and Selina says, all the documents Britt needs… to disappear.

Dex tells Sonny, trust him. He knows ex-military when he sees it, and that guy was. Sonny says, Pikeman does private military contracting. Maybe they’re promoting from within. Dex says, Pikeman Security Group? and Sonny asks if he knows them. Dex says, among others. They encountered a lot of private contractors when they were in the service. They knew to steer clear of them. Sonny asks if Dex is worried about him. Don’t be. They’ll get everything under control, and the payoff is going to be huge. Dex will see.

Tomorrow, Victor asks why Nikolas isn’t fighting for his son; Laura wonders why something sounds like a threat; Obrecht says she betrayed Britt’s trust; and Trina says, this has to end.

🥀 First Roll Call…

Soap stars we lost in 2022.

https://www.soapsindepth.com/gallery/all-my-children/remembering-the-soap-stars-we-lost-in-2022

💎 She Should Know…

Teddi’s certainly had a lot to say about the show since she got the boot. Does anyone really care what she thinks?

Former Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills Star Teddi Mellencamp Feels Diana Jenkins Has “Overstayed Her Welcome” On The Show
Bravo Alum Believes RHOBH Star Has Overstayed Her Welcome

🧂 ShahJudication…

Excuse me if I find it hard to be sympathetic. This kind of stuff boils my blood.

U.S. Government Requests Jen Shah Get 10 Years In Prison For Her Role In Nationwide Telemarketing Scheme

🍊 Pick a Lane…

This woman needs help.

Braunwyn Windham-Burke Shares First Christmas As A Single Mom In Instagram Post; Implies Sean Burke Is “Toxic” And “Controlling”

🙌 Deserving Of a Real Bravo…

It must be hard to stay sober in a cast of lushes. Is James off the wagon now?

Celebrating Sober Bravo Stars!

⚓️ Me Boat Daddy…

Like we thought he wouldn’t finish.

Below Deck’s Captain Lee Rosbach Returns Before The End Of Season 10; Says “I Wanted To Be Able To Finish What I Started”

🐶 Yule Love Them…

I knew if I dug around enough, I could find celebrity pets on Christmas. No clue who these people are, but they have very cute dogs.

https://push.abs-cbn.com/2022/12/25/fresh-scoops/celebrities-flex-their-pets-on-christmas-day-1413-204610

🍗 Combing Through the Leftovers…

Bravo has shut down somewhat until the new year, but if you like some tea with your soap, stop in tomorrow. Until then, stay safe, stay not making resolutions you won’t keep anyway, and stay hoping for the best, but prepared for the worst.

Dec27

December 26, 2022 – Heather Makes Robert an Offer, Unnecessary Cause, Lotsa Trees, More Celebrations, Christmas In the Clink, Happy Kwanzaa & Black Gold

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I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Cody looks at Britta Noelle in the hospital nursery, and a nurse tells him that he has a beautiful daughter. He explains she’s not his; he only helped deliver her. She says, it’s the Christmas miracle baby everyone is talking about. Does she have a name? He says, Britta Noelle, and the nurse says, it’s a very special name. He says, she’s named for a very special woman.

In her office, Britt reads: Join me for my first birthday party ever on New Year’s Eve. Terry comes in, and says, Britt wanted to meet with her? but Britt doesn’t know what she’s talking about. Terry says she got a message to meet here, and Britt says she got the same message. She assumed it was from her Co-Chief of Staff. Is this someone’s idea of a joke? Austin comes in, and says, good, they’re both here. Can they take care of a little piece of business? Britt asks, what business is that? and he says, the business they’ve all chosen. The business of saving lives.

In the hospital waiting area, Maxie looks through some binders, and says, brussels sprouts are so 2022. Brad asks what she’s doing here, and she says she’s meeting Britt to go over the menu and details for her big birthday party. What’s his excuse? He says, actually, Britt wants his opinion on how to make this party one the town will never forget. Maxie says, no offense, but she’s a professional party planner, and he says, he’s a professional party animal, so move over. He sits down.

Heather yells from one of the exam rooms, asking what you have to do to see a doctor. She’s a very important person. Dante comes in, and she says, if it isn’t Detective Dreamboat. He didn’t have to get dressed up just to see her. He says he didn’t, and she says, he was at that memorial. She read about that; that brave, young officer killed in the line of duty. She does so wish Dante would let her help find his killer, and then he could maybe help her in return. Portia comes in wearing black, and Heather says, another mourner… That’s a really nice dress. Is that Armani? Dante tells Portia to let him know when he can take this one back to where she belongs, and Heather tells him, think about it. She’ll scratch his back if he scratches hers. He leaves, and Portia says, just to be clear, this is a court appointed evaluation to help the judge determine whether she’s sufficiently rehabbed so she can return to custody at D’Archam. Heather says, my neck still really hurts – she looks at Portia’s name tag – Dr. Robinson. Is she by chance related to that lovely young girl who was on trial earlier this year? Portia says, that’s her daughter, and checks Heather’s eyes.

At the memorial in Rice Plaza, Marshall says, the PCPD did Rory proud. He’s surprised Rory’s family didn’t attend. Trina says, Commissioner Ashford invited them personally, but they were too upset to come. They’re having a private burial just for family, which she totally gets. It’s still hard to believe. Laura joins them, and says she wants to assure Trina, whoever took Officer Cabrera’s life will pay the price. Robert says, that he solemnly promises, and Curtis says, the killer has already claimed too many lives. Marshall says, it makes you wonder when it’s going to end, and Spencer says, it ends when we find Esme. Laura asks, who’s we? and he says he just meant, we, the people of this great city. Sam says hello to everyone, and Spencer asks how Trina is. Laura says she thinks it’s nice Spencer is here to support his friend, but she wants to tell everyone that it’s important they all stand back and let the PCPD do their jobs. Spencer says, of course (🍷). He’s a Cassadine, not a cop. The last thing he wants to do is stick his neck out there. Curtis suggests Spencer stay in his lane, and Spencer walks off. Robert’s phone rings, and he asks Dante where he is. Dante says he was just with Heather Webber. She’s dropping hints like she could give them information on The Hook, but it comes with a price tag. Robert asks, how much? but Dante says he doesn’t think she’s talking about money. Robert says, got it. He’s on his way. Sam asks if Dante is okay, and Robert says, he’s fine. Laura hopes he has a lead, and Robert says, that remains to be seen, but if he does have one, she’ll be the first to know.

Maxie says, no text from Britt. Did she text Brad? Brad says, no. He wonders what’s keeping her. Maxie says she’s already started preparing a wish list for the party, from swag for the guests to a signature cocktail, but Brad says he already designed a cocktail for Britt; bourbon, rice wine and ginger. She asks, what’s it called? and he says, The Britch; what else? She asks what makes him the expert, and he says, Britt’s his best friend as well as his drinking buddy. Maxie says she’s family, mother to Britt’s nephew. She knows Britt’s likes and dislike. He says he’s family too – chosen family.

Mac tells Cody, congratulations, and Cody says, she’s not… Oh, it’s you. Mac says he heard what Cody did. He guesses the saying is true. It really does take a village to bring a new life into this mixed up world. Cody says, Britt did all the heavy lifting. He was just trying not to pass out. Mac says, that’s not the way he heard it. Cody pitched in until the paramedics could get through the snowstorm, and deliver mother and child to GH. Cody says, to be honest, he was scared to death. He’s delivered a foal to a nervous filly before, but this is a whole new ballgame. To top it off, the pregnant woman was dressed as Mary, on Christmas Eve. So no pressure there. Mac asks why Cody always does that. When someone gives him a compliment or a pat on the back, his first response is that he doesn’t deserve it. Cody says, because he doesn’t.

Austin tells Britt and Terry, the reason they’re here is a state of the art diagnostic tool that’s been Federally approved, and its ability to locate cancer cells and other potentially life-threatening illnesses. It’s remarkable. Terry says, sounds great, but she’s going to beat Britt to the punch and ask, how much? He says, it’s pricey, but he thinks it’ll be a great investment for GH. Terry says, how much? and he says, low six figures. Terry tells Britt that she doesn’t have to say it. They can’t afford that. Britt says, they can’t approve that big of a purchase, so why don’t they just recommend it to the board and pull the trigger? Terry asks, what is happening? Normally when she zigs, Britt zags. Now all of a sudden… Britt says, Terry zigs, she zigs, they zig together. Are they done here? Terry says, Britt’s not going anywhere until Britt tells her what’s really going on.

Portia checks Heather’s ears, and Heather says, the only good thing about D’Archam is, they have access to the media, and her daughter’s trial was a really big deal in the padded cells, because it was so salacious. College student taking her best friends doing the dirty, and then sending the sex tape to the entire university. The inmates really ate that up because it was so juicy. It must have been so hard for Portia as Trina’s mother to watch. Of course (🍷) Heather knew right from the beginning Trina was innocent. Portia tells her, say ahh, and checks Heather’s throat. Heather says, as someone falsely accused herself several times over the years, she always roots for the underdog. Besides, it was obvious from the beginning, she was totally set up. What was the name of the other suspect again? Portia says, Esme Prince, and Heather says, the girl who’s gone missing. Tell her. Does Portia’s daughter ever talk about Esme?

Terry says, when it comes to spending money, Britt is always about squeezing every dime. Now she’s all about letting the money flow? This isn’t her; what gives? Austin asks if Britt wants to tell her, or should he? and Terry says, tell her what? Britt says, everyone thinks Terry is this great healer and she’s just Ebenezer Scrooge in charge of the budget. She delivered a miracle breach baby, on Christmas, the roads blocked by snow, assisted by two doctors that were not OB/GYNs, the Quartermaine family, and their lame stable bum. Terry says, okay. The conditions were not ideal, but she knows Britt is an experienced OB, trained for anything. Britt says, no amount of training prepared her for how she felt. Here at the hospital, when they have a breach baby, they usually opt for a C-section. At the Quartermaines’, she had to deliver the baby breach. Does Terry have any idea all the things that could have gone wrong? After she delivered that little girl, and put her in her mother’s arms, for the first time, she realized life is a miracle, and should never be taken for granted. Terry says, suddenly Britt is agreeable, and she starts talking about miracles. Was she visited by three ghosts last night, showing her how her life would turn out?

Maxie says, okay, chosen family. If Brad knows Britt so well, tell her why this party is so important to her. He says he’s not sure. There are some things even drinking buddies don’t share. But Britt did share with him that she wanted to be remembered as more than the woman who was knocked into the MetroCourt pool when Cody parachuted into town. Maxie says, remembered? Is she planning on leaving Port Charles? Brad says he thinks it has more to do with her birthday, and that she’s not getting any younger, and wants to make the most of every second. Maxie says she guesses it’s their job to make it happen. What was he thinking about for music? He says, show tunes? and she says, no. She meant should they have a DJ or a live band? He says, DJ for sure. He actually knows this guy from the foam party circuit who’s a genius and totally ripped… She says, do not even go there, and he says, that’s the theme; foam party.

Mac says, it’s too bad Cody didn’t turn out to be his. He would talked some sense into Cody a long time ago. Cody asks if Mac is a fan of tough love, and Mac says he doesn’t know about Cody’s past, but it’s clear he’s been burned before, and he’s letting it define who he is today. All love is tough, and a lot of people fail at it. The trick is to get right back on that horse; is he right? Cody says he’s assuming Mac is in his formal dress because of the memorial service for the officer killed in the line of duty. Has he told the others, honor Officer Cabrera by getting back on the horse or in the squad car? Is that what Mac would have done? Mac says, that’s a good speech. He wishes he would have thought of it. For what it’s worth (🍷), even if it wasn’t him, he genuinely wishes Cody had a good dad growing up. Every kid deserves that. Cody says, if he’d had a good dad like Mac, he hopes he would have listened to him. It might have spared him from doing something he’ll always regret. Mac says, that’s the second time Cody made a reference to a bad decision. Does he want to talk about it? Dante comes along, and says, sorry to interrupt, but he got Mac’s text. Mac asks if he talked to Heather Webber, and Dante says, she thinks she can get Ryan to open up about Esme Prince. Mac says, this he’s got to hear this for himself.

Portia listens with her stethoscope, and tells Heather, deep breaths, please. Robert walks in, and says, remember him? Heather says, of course (🍷). How could she forget her favorite Scorpion? He says, Scorpio. Detective Falconari suggested they have a chat. Portia says she’ll give them some privacy, but Robert says he’d like her to stick around to help him evaluate looney tunes here. Heather asks if that’s any way to talk to a witness who could help him track down a killer. A killer, she might add, the PCPD has been clueless to track down so far. Robert asks if Portia feels their friend is ready to go back to D’Archam, and Portia says, without a doubt. She sees no ill effects from the crash. She doesn’t see why Heather can’t be back in her cell tonight. He says, that’s so what he wanted to hear, but Heather tells him, wait. She’ll tell him what he wants to know. He asks why he feels there’s a but in there somewhere, and she says, smart as a whip and handsome, just like she remembers. Come on. Pull up a chair. They’ll see how they can help each other.

Laura says, today’s ceremony was certainly tough, but she knows it was especially tough on Trina. Trina says, it was, but she keeps telling herself Rory won’t be forgotten, and his killer will be found. A man walks over, and introduces himself as Raymond McAvoy with The Invader. He asks if Laura has any thoughts on the latest Hook victim. She says, Officer Cabrera represented everything that was good and fine in Port Charles. And as his good friend Trina Robinson just told her, Rory will never be forgotten. Officer Rory Cabrera was in his rookie year… Spencer and Trina walk over to the side, and Spencer says, now is as good a time as any to put their plan into action. Unless she’s having second thoughts. She says, no. If they have to make themselves the target to catch Rory’s killer, so be it. Esme’s going to pay. Raymond thanks Laura, and says, this will be posted on The Invader website as part of ongoing coverage of The Hook killings. Can he get a picture? Laura says, of course (🍷), and Trina says, it’s the least they can do to honor Rory’s memory. She, Spencer, and Laura pose for the photo, and Sam tells Curtis that she didn’t know Trina was on speaking terms with Spencer. He says he didn’t either, and Raymond says, got it. Thanks so much. Laura’s phone rings, and she steps aside. Trina tells Spencer that she hopes they post the photo with the story. Curtis walks over to them, and says, nice photo. Now do they want to tell him what this is really about?

Mac asks Portia, how’s the patient? and she says, crazy like a fox, or up to no good; take his pick. But Robert didn’t need her to tell him that. She’s going to get Heather’s paperwork together right now, and get her out of this hospital asap.

Robert says, Spring Ridge? and Heather says, of course (🍷) she’d prefer unconditional freedom, but if he’s unable to give her that, she’ll take Spring Ridge over D’Archam any day. For one thing, the food is so much better. They let her paint, and it’s also where she got to know Ryan Chamberlain. Mac walks in, and says, what about Ryan Chamberlain? She says, what is it about a man in uniform? and Robert says, Heather feels she can get Ryan to open up. She tells them, what can she say? She’s got the touch. Mac says, but her help doesn’t come without a price, and she says, it’s not like she’s asking him to pay her. All they have to do is let the bus to D’Archam leave without her.

Cody asks if Dante told Mac about the small part he played in delivering that little bundle of dynamite, and Dante says he did. He thought Cody deserved a gold star. And not just for delivering the baby. Cody got him and Sam face to face the other day. Cody says, Dante was grieving a fellow cop who died doing his job, and Dante says, but he didn’t know how much he needed Sam to pull him through that. Cody stepped in, and Dante thanks him. Cody says, that’s what friends are for.

Britt tells Terry, don’t worry. She’s not going to order a Christmas turkey and say, God bless us, everyone. Terry says, Tiny Tim. He lived, remember? Britt says, it’s a sweet story, but that’s all it is; just a story. Things don’t work out that neatly in real life. Now back to the fancy new and extremely expensive equipment Dr. Gatlin-Holt is recommending. What does Terry think? Thumbs up or thumbs down? Terry says, Britt isn’t going to tank what she thinks? and Britt says, not this time. Terry says, then let’s recommend the Board approve this purchase, and Austin says, awesome. Britt says, now if the two of them don’t mind, she has a party to plan. She leaves, and Terry asks if Austin can give her a minute. He says he has a patient waiting, but she says, that wasn’t a request. They sit, and he asks, what’s up? She says, he got his pricy new toy. Now give her what she wants. He asks what she wants, and she says, the truth. Britt’s never been this cooperative, this agreeable, this nice. He says, it’s refreshing, but she says, more like terrifying. What’s wrong with Britt? He says, to be clear, she’s complaining that Britt is too nice, and she says, when he puts it that way, she guesses she’s not. But still, they work so closely together, sharing responsibility… From an administrative perspective… Austin says he’s hearing Terry say she cares about Britt, and she says she does. They started out on the wrong foot, but knowing they had to make it work showed her Britt’s strengths; her drive, her dedication, her refusal to give up on a patient. He says he’s grown fond of Britt himself, and she says, knowing Britt has made her a better doctor, a better person. He says he knows what she means.

Maxie tells Brad, seriously? A foam party. He knows Scotty is going to be there, right? Does he want to see Scotty drenched? He could slip and break a hip. He says, for Britt’s very first birthday party, they’re not going to make it simple and tasteful. Britt Westbourne is all about glitter and go-go boots, disco and drama. Britt comes out of the elevator, and he says, the girl wants to party like it’s 1977, and the number one song was the Bee Gees’ Stayin’ Alive. Maxie says, now he wants a disco party? What is he going to wear, a skintight suit and disco heels? He says, she had him at skintight. Maybe she was just joking, but that look sounds like a lot of fun and super-hot. Maxie would look fantastic in glitter eyeshadow and Farah Fawcett hair. Maxie jumps up and says, that will never happen. Britt says, hey, the both of them. Time out. This party is supposed to bring people together, not launch a Twitter war. She asked both of them to work on this, so it’s time for forget their differences, and work side by side as friends. Maxie says, friends? Us? Brad says, they’re definitely not friends, and Britt says, but they’re both her friends. Can’t they just fake it, for her sake? Maxie says, they’ve been trying, but she and Brad don’t have the same taste, and Britt says, then get over it. They have to get along. Don’t they see that? Brad says, not in the slightest. Why is it so important to her that he and Maxie be friends?

Robert says, he’s the DA, not a magician. Heather is in D’Archam for a reason. She’s considered a threat to herself and to others. She says, she’s a threat and should be in maximum security, but Ryan Chamberlain, who has a trail of victims from here to Hackensack, gets sponge baths at Spring Ridge? Do the citizens of Port Charles really see that as justice? Mac says, Ryan is hardly a threat. He’s basically a vegetable who blinks. She asks if they really believe that, and Mac asks if she knows something they don’t. She says, Ryan may only be able to communicate by blinking, but he can help them find Esme Prince. The gossip around Spring Ridge they had some chemistry when she was an intern there. You might call them two psycho peas in a pod. But if they don’t want to stop Esme Prince before she murders another cop like she did that poor officer… Mac says he doesn’t want to hear her say Rory’s name, but she says, easy. She respects the thin blue line. If they want to find his killer, she’s their best cop, and she thinks they know that.

Trina asks, what makes Curtis think she and Spencer are up to something? and he says he saw them step aside together for a bit, and ten seconds later, they were posing for a picture with the mayor. Spencer says, they just wanted to hear what his grandmother was saying about Rory.

Marshall asks, since when are Sam’s cousin and Trina on speaking terms? and Sam says she doesn’t know. He’d have to ask them. He says, Trina just lost someone she cares about; she’s vulnerable right now. He’d hate to think Sam’s cousin would take advantage. She says, Spencer has been through a lot of loss. He knows what it is to grieve, and she doesn’t think he’d ever take advantage of Trina. Marshall says, his track record says otherwise, and she says she gets it. She’s sure he sees a rich and spoiled kid he can’t sympathize with, but look at what Spencer did on the stand for Trina. He gave Trina an alibi, and got sent to Pentenville for his trouble. He says, Spencer did the right thing, and Sam says, then give him a chance. He’ll do the right thing now.

Laura asks Spencer for a word, and they step away. Curtis says he knows Trina is hurting, and knows her friends mean a lot to her. But might he recommend she stick with Joss and Cam, and remind herself how Spencer has treated her since he came back to town. She says she hasn’t forgotten, but suggests he doesn’t forget either, and he says, forget what? She says, boundaries, remember? but he says he guesses he just can’t help himself because… She says she knows. She loves him too. She’s grateful he cares, but she knows what she has to do. He says he hopes so too, when Marshall comes over. He says, if Curtis wants to join Portia, he’ll see to it that Trina gets home safely. Curtis asks if that fits Trina’s boundaries, and she says, it does.

Laura asks what’s going on with Spencer and Trina, and Spencer tells her not to worry. He knows what he’s doing. She says, that’s good. Then he won’t mind telling her what it is. He tells her, when she said he was a better person than he thinks, he vowed to live up to those words. He wants to be worthy of her faith in him. She says she’s glad to hear it. Just be the good man she knows he is. He says, that’s exactly what he’s doing.

Marshall says he realizes Trina and Curtis are working on her boundaries, but just so she knows, boundaries don’t apply to grandfathers. She says, but he’s not her grandfather, and he says he’ll be her step-grandfather. Just remember, no matter what else he is, that boy is still a Cassadine. Be careful. She says, don’t worry. She will be. She’s learned her lesson about Spencer. She and Spencer exchange glances.

Mac says, Heather must have lost what little is left of her marbles if she thinks they’re cutting a deal with her. Robert says, let’s not be hasty. She’s right about one thing; they’re short on new leads. So if Ryan came to care for Esme, why would he give her up? Heather asks, what’s his Plan B? They tossed Ryan’s room at Spring Ridge, and came up empty. Now all they have is a little earring that links one of Ryan’s early victims with Officer Cabrera. Mac says, so what? and she says, so she can take Esme’s place in Ryan’s world; become his nanny, his buddy, whatever he needs. She’ll work him hard and fast, and she promises she’ll get him to squeal for her. And when he does, she’ll pass the information to them, they can track down Esme, and end this nightmare. Do they have a deal or don’t they?

Cody tells Dante that he wishes he’d been a better friend to Britt. He was less than upfront with her from the start. Dante says, about what? and Cody says, not to get into the gory details, but he knew she might be in possession of something that rightly belonged to him. He kept his eye on the prize, so to speak. Dante says, and he used her to get to that prize? and Cody says, when Dante puts it that way, he sounds like a real horse’s ass. Dante says, no. Cody sounds like the kid with the chip on his shoulder he knew at camp. Britta Noelle cries, and Cody peeks in on her. He says, their lives sure went in different directions though, huh? Dante is a police detective in a healthy relationship with Sam, with a bunch of kids between them. He’s still chasing after shiny objects instead of what really matters. For a minute there, on Christmas day, he and Britt put their egos and agendas aside, and focused on something that was higher and better than both of them. They made a damn good team too. Dante tells him, they did it once. What’s to say they can’t again? Maybe Cody has a chance to go into 2023 on a high note.

Britt says she gets it. Brad and Maxie may never become friends, but one day, they’ll look back on her party, and she hopes they’ll remember how much it meant to her that they were there. That the two of them helped make it happen. And if they can work together to create one magical night, maybe they can look out for each other when she’s not around. Maxie asks, why? Where is she going? Brad asks if she’s going somewhere, and Britt tells them, she’s just saying, things change; people change. Brad says, like her and Cody. They can patch things up, and she can have someone to kiss when they ring in the New Year at her party. Britt says, it’s too late for them. Maybe if he wasn’t a selfish, deceitful lying jackass. Brad says, maybe it’s him, but that sounds kind of hot, and Britt says she’s going to miss him. He says he’s not going anywhere, and Maxie says, neither is she. Is Britt? Britt says, never. She’ll never be too far away. Brad says, that was sentimental, which is not Britt’s normal. What’s going on? Britt says, she’s just really excited about this party, so get to work, okay? This has to be the best birthday ever.

Robert says he has a few people to talk to, and will get back to Heather. Mac says, it’s only going to happen if Heather can back up her claims about Ryan, and she says, they may not have faith, but she does. Trust her. If anyone knows how to find Esme Prince, it’s the one-handed man. Mac says, let’s get out of here, and leaves with Robert. In the hallway, Mac says, Robert doesn’t think they can trust her, and Robert says, not as far as he can throw Mac. But on the other hand, she may be a bit shook, and they need to find this killer before she strikes again.

Marshall says he promised Curtis he’d get Trina home safe, and she says she knows, looking at Spencer. He says, that boy is a proven liar, remember? and she says she knows, but she also remembers something he told her, about how some lies can be morally justified. And if you asked her, her soon-to-be step-grandfather is a very wise man. They leave the plaza, and Laura tells Spencer, he hurt Trina once before. She’s even more vulnerable now. He tells her not to worry. He hasn’t forgotten what he’s done in the past, but he swears he’ll never hurt Trina again, and neither will anyone else.

Robert tells Mac, he’s the first to admit, working with Heather is a dodgy business, but if she gets information from Ryan that leads them to Esme, it’s got to be worth it. Mac asks if Robert doesn’t think Heather would say anything to avoid D’Archam, and Robert says, absolutely, but catching this killer is worth the risk. They get in the elevator, and Robert says, when it comes to Heather, there’s nothing in writing, and there’s no way on this planet she’s going to get what she wants. The elevator doors close.

Britt goes back to her office, and Austin follows. He says he’s starting think this birthday party is a way of saying goodbye without having to say goodbye. Clear up all her loose ends with her friends, and her enemies, and everybody else in between. She says, what if it is? It’s her life, isn’t it? That means it’s her death. He says, for sure, but he thinks people want to know the truth. She says she’s busy, and doesn’t have much time. He says, okay, and leaves.

An officer comes in to see Heather, and his phone chirps. She says, his phone just pinged. He must have some kind of message. He looks at his phone, and says, it’s an article from The Invader. She says she hasn’t seen a paper in ages. What’s the update? He says, none of her business. He’s just here to check her cuffs.

Curtis comes out of the hospital elevator, and Portia asks if everything is okay with Trina. He says, she’s with his dad; he’s taking her home. She says she’s glad Trina’s not alone, especially today, and he says, that’s just it. He’s afraid Trina has one too many friends. She asks, who? and he says, Spencer Cassadine.

A nurse comes into Heather’s room, and says she needs the officer to sign some paperwork. She asks him to follow her, and Heather says, bye. The second he’s gone, she looks at the phone he stupidly left there, and sees The Invader headline, Mayor Collins Issues Statement on PCPD Officer’s Murder, along with the picture.

Brad says, it’s not like Britt to show so much emotion, and Maxie says she was thinking the same thing. But since they both care about Britt so much, she’ll agree to a cease fire if he will too. He says, okay. For Britt’s sake, they’ll put aside their differences and work together to make sure her first ever party is an epic success. Now, about what the waiters should be wearing… They both say, not much, look at each other, and high-five.

Dante asks what Sam is thinking, and she says, how handsome he looks. He says, for all the wrong reasons, but she says, no; to honor a fallen comrade. He says he just wishes he’d done more to save him. He should have gone in right after he heard that shot. She says, no, because he could have been killed too. She accepts the risk he takes, and would never ask him to change who he is or what he does, but she does pray a lot more now that they’re together, that he comes home safe to her and the kids, because she doesn’t know what she’d do without him. He says she’ll never have to worry about that, and she says, good. She’s going to hold him to that. They hug.

There’s a knock at Britt’s office door, and she says, not a good time; she’s busy. Cody walks in anyway.  

Tomorrow, Maxie tells Brook, this is more serious than they thought: Drew comes bearing good news; Cody says he hasn’t been honest with Britt, but he’s going to fix that; and Sonny tells Dex that he’s going to make them regret they ever crossed him.

🥀 A Shame…

Not that any reason is a good reason, but this might have been preventable. Still in shock that she’s gone.

https://pagesix.com/2022/12/21/sonya-eddys-cause-of-death-revealed

🎄 Tree Hoarders…

That’s a lot of trees.

https://nypost.com/2022/12/24/were-so-obsessed-with-christmas-we-hoarded-133-decorated-trees-in-our-home/

🎅🏽 Celebrating the Season…

A mix of celebrity celebrations.

Lily Collins! Mariah Carey! How Stars Are Celebrating Christmas 2022

More trees.

https://www.tmz.com/2022/12/25/celebrity-christmas-trees-2022-shining-bright/

Not that I want to promote these people, but they do have interesting parties.

Ladies in Red! Inside the Kardashian-Jenner Family’s Christmas Eve Bash

But WTF is Kourtney wearing? No, just no.

https://people.com/style/kardashian-jenner-christmas-eve-party-see-every-look/

🗝 A Different View…

Celebrity Christmas behind bars.

https://www.tmz.com/2022/12/25/celebrity-prisoners-christmas-meal-ghislaine-maxwell-r-kelly-josh-duggar/

🕯🌽 Holiday of Principles…

Great articles on Kwanzaa.

https://nmaahc.si.edu/explore/stories/seven-principles-kwanzaa

https://www.essence.com/news/how-to-celebrate-kwanzaa/

🥁 Pa Rum Pum Pum Pummed Out…

Help. I’m on the gummi bear train, and can’t get off. There was no new Deck tonight, but roll by and visit tomorrow for more soap and tea. Until then, stay safe, stay being careful about regifting, and stay not chasing after shiny objects instead of what really matters.

Dec24

December 23, 2022 – Christmas In Port Charles, Ellie, MOSS BOWL, Escape, Rescue Pups (!), VanderFight, Jealousy, Unhinged, Celebrity Holidays, Pointless, Carol Quote Quartet & Twelve

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Brook and Austin clean up giftwrap, and Britt says, from the look of pure glee on his face, Leo couldn’t have liked Austin’s gift any more. Austin says, it was just a video game about marine biology, so how could he resist. Olivia says she’d thank him, but he might be responsible for them never seeing their son again. Austin says, actually, he should thank them. It was kind of them to let him stay here last night. Olivia says, no one should be alone on Christmas, especially family. Austin and Brook leave to throw the wrapping away, and Ned says, not to sound… What’s the opposite of generous? Olivia says, selfish, and he says he thought they were having an intimate Christmas dinner. The staff is off. Did they prep enough food for a guest? She asks him to form that sentence again, and he says, did she prep enough food for a guest? She says, relax. Monica is still under the weather, and made it clear she’s not coming down for dinner. So they split the Christmas goose five ways instead of four. There’s always room for one more. Remember that. The doorbell rings, and Ned says, they’re not actually having goose, right? Olivia opens the door to Cody, who says, they have a bit of a situation.

Maxie, Obrecht, Britt, and Nina are at Nina’s penthouse, and Britt says, thanks for the loot, but she has to jet. She’s sorry she missed Sonny. Obrecht says, called away to work on Christmas day; it’s unfortunate. Nina asks if Britt is sure she can’t stay, but Britt says, no time. She has the Polar Bear Pledge, the soup kitchen, and then she’s hearing Brad sing with the PC Gay Men’s Choir. Maxie says, that’s quite a Christmas, and Britt tells them to have a wonderful Christmas. She hugs everyone, and Obrecht says she’ll walk Britt out. In the hallway, Obrecht says, Britt doesn’t have to do this, and Britt says, do what? Obrecht says, act like it’s her last Christmas with them. Huntington’s or not, she still has many more years ahead of her. Inside, Maxie says she should get going too. The roads are a mess, and she doesn’t want to miss her flight. Nina says, oh no. She wanted to check in with Maxie. How is she doing? She knows Christmas is a tough time for a break up, but Maxie says, it was a good thing. She and Austin are not meant to be. Nina says, it’s still okay to be sad about it, and Maxie says she is, but it helped spending the morning with James and Bailey, and this motley crew. Now she’s going to Portland to see Georgie. Her Christmas just keeps getting better.

Georgie asks if Ellie likes her present, and Ellie says she loves it, but Georgie coming to visit was the only present she needed. Georgie leaves to try on her new sweater, and Ellie thanks Spinelli for bringing Georgie. She can’t tell him how much she missed her last year. He says, Ellie helped raise her. You’ll always be her third parent, even if we are no longer a we. He thanks her for allowing Maxie to join them tonight. It’ll mean a lot to Georgie. She says, just Georgie, huh?

Sonny comes to the garage, and asks if anyone is here. Sasha stands up from behind a motorcycle, and he asks what she’s doing here.

Outside Elizabeth’s house, Scotty gets hit with a snowball. He makes a snowball of his own, and says, all right, you little animals, here I come. Inside, Elizabeth looks at family photos on the mantel, and focuses on one of her, Finn, and Violet. Cameron comes downstairs, and asks if everything is okay. She says she’s great, and he says, it’s just that she’s been very quiet about everything that’s happened between her and Finn. He wants her to know she can talk to him about anything, and she says she knows, but she’s fine, she promises. She asks if Josslyn is stopping by, but he says, no. Her car’s still busted from last night. Elizabeth says, that’s too bad. It’s probably for the best though, with the shape the roads are in. Nobody should be behind the wheel today.

Laura goes to Jordan’s office, Jordan says, sorry to pull her away from her family. Laura says, comes with the territory, but nobody knows that better than Jordan. It was so bad out there, she had to walk here. Jordan says, last night’s storm was intense. Snow is completely covering sections of Harborview Drive. Add that to the ice damage to all the other roads surrounding the city… Laura says, it’s just a disaster, and Jordan says, and on Christmas. Laura says, a lot of people will be having an unhappy holiday because of this.

Nina says, Maxie has one more present, when Maxie looks at her phone, and says, no. She can’t believe this is happening. Her flight was canceled. She’s not going to get to see Georgie for Christmas.

Ned asks, what’s going on? and Cody says, Harborview’s totally blocked off. No one’s getting out of their main gate, unless they plan on walking. Olivia says, luckily, everyone who’s here was planning on staying here for the foreseeable future. Cody says he just wanted to give them a heads up, and Olivia asks what his plans are for the day. He says he was going to hit up Beradino’s for their holiday menu, but that’s obviously shot. No big deal. He’ll scrounge something out of the fridge. Olivia says, he’ll do no such thing. He’s staying right here. They’ll figure out something with the food. Cody says he doesn’t want to impose, but Olivia says, it’s not an imposition. Right, Ned? Back her up here. Ned says, the more, the merrier.

Britt tells Obrecht that she knows it’s not her last Christmas, but she won’t be able to live life to the fullest. Obrecht says, despite the old adage, it’s unwise to live every day like it’s your last. Racing around, desperate to check things off a list. Nein. Live every day as if it’s your first. You’ll never lose sight of all the magic and wonder around you. Britt hugs her mother, tells her, merry Christmas, and leaves. Obrecht says something in German.

Sasha says she didn’t mean for Sonny to come out here on Christmas. She thought she disarmed the security system. He asks if she comes here a lot, and she says, no, but the garage is being sold soon. And Brando’s New Year’s resolution for 2022 was to finish his bike by 2023. Sonny says, time’s almost up, and she says she thought since she used to work in her neighbor’s garage, she could figure it out. He says, not so much? and she says, not so much. He says, all right, and takes his coat off. She asks what he’s doing, and he says, she’s not the only one who can work on engines, and rolls up his sleeves. She says, no. He should be with Nina today, and he says, he’ll get to that, but he thinks if they work together, they can do this by dinnertime. Hand me that wrench.

Olivia brings Cody into the living room, and tells Brook and Austin that Cody will be joining them tonight. She tells Cody to help himself to a drink, and make himself comfortable. She goes into the foyer, and Ned says, he hates to keep harping on this… She says she knows. They don’t have enough food. (Which I find really hard to believe.) She says she’ll whip up a lasagna. It’ll probably be boxed noodles – she crosses herself – but what are you going to do? He tells her that he thinks they’ll survive, she kisses him, and runs off. He goes into the living room, and tells Cody that Leo will be thrilled to see him. Austin tells Brook, and just like that, he was replaced. She says, horse wrangler trumps doctor, and he says she must be thrilled. He knows she was never his biggest fan, so he’s guessing she’s over the moon that he messed things up with Maxie. She says, he was trying to be everything to everyone, told a white lie or two, and it got away from him. It happens to the best of us. He asks why he gets the feeling she’s including herself in the us, and she says, because she is.

Spinelli says, of course (🍷) he wants Georgie to spend time with both her mothers, but Ellie says, that’s not what she meant, and he knows it. He says he apologizes for the whirlwind nature of this visit, but he might even have time to meet that new suitor of hers. She says, new being the operative word. They’re not even official. Funny, he used to live in Port Charles… A tablet rings, and Spinelli calls to Georgie, saying, her mother is video calling her. Georgie runs out, and tells Maxie, merry Christmas. She misses Maxie. Maxie says she misses Georgie too, and Spinelli says, Maxie is cutting it close. Her flight leaves in a little over an hour. Georgie says, please don’t be fashionably late, and Maxie says she’s so sorry, but her flight got canceled, and she won’t be able to make it in until tomorrow. Georgie says, but tomorrow’s not Christmas, and Maxie says, she knows, but she’ll be there before Georgie knows it. Georgie says, it’ll be too late. Don’t even bother. She stomps off, and Spinelli says he’ll talk to her. Maxie asks him to tell her how sorry she is, and he says, it may not seem like it at the moment, but she knows.

Obrecht comes back in, and asks, why the long faces? I desperately want to make a horse joke, and Nina says, all the flights from PC International have been grounded. Maxie says she’s not going to be able to see Georgie for Christmas. She needed this. More important, Georgie needed this. She failed George. Obrecht gives a short laugh, and Maxie asks if Obrecht just scoffed at her. Obrecht says, and she’d do it again. Such a defeatist attitude. That’s not the Maxie Jones she knows. So Maxie’s flight has been canceled; there are still other options to explore. Mark her words. They’re getting Maxie to Portland to see her daughter komm hölle oder hochwasser (come hell or high water).

Scotty comes in, and says, those kids are like wild animals, and Elizabeth tells him, watch it; those kids are her boys. He says, they want him to go sledding with them, and Cameron says, why doesn’t he? Scotty says, because he doesn’t want to start the new year in traction. Cameron suggests he take over, and Scotty says he’ll slip Cameron a twenty later. Cameron leaves, and Scotty asks, which one of those good-for-nothings is Elizabeth moping over? Finn, her father, or perhaps she’s taking a little from column A, and column B. He tells her to sit, and says he wants her to know that he and Laura are worried about her, but she says she’s fine. She’s spent most of her Christmases without her parents. It never used to bother her. He says, now things have changed. So what’s the difference? She says, for the first time, it doesn’t seem like there’s a gap or a pause. This time their absence feels final.

Olivia tells Ned, the lasagna’s in the oven. Let’s just hope it’s enough. He says, because if it isn’t, Luigi’s isn’t open on Christmas, and she says, do not even put that out in the universe. This night is going to be nothing like Thanksgiving. He says, she doesn’t really believe all this universe nonsense, right? and the doorbell rings. She says, God will get him for that, and opens the door to TJ and Molly. TJ says, they’re sorry for barging in like this. They were out caroling… Molly says, but Harborview is blocked; there’s no way to get home. TJ asks if it’s okay if they hang out here, just until the road’s unblocked. Olivia tells them to get inside now. Make themselves comfortable. She tells Ned, God will get him good, and follows them into the living room.

Nina tells Maxie, that was her business manager, and the hangar they use for across the border for Crimson is still operational. And apparently, there are some private jets just hanging out there, just waiting to be used. Is there any chance Maxie knows someone who owns a plane?

Ellie asks how Georgie is, and Spinelli says, she’s not happy. She’s at that tough age; old enough to know there are things we can’t control, and still young enough to believe mommy can move mountains. Ellie says, to be fair, Maxie is quite formidable, and speaking of, he did a nice little dodge before, but she knows him better than almost anyone. He’s fallen for Maxie again, hasn’t he? He says, now is neither the time nor the place, but he was hoping getting together as a family make things right between them. Clearly it’s not in the cards. She says, it’s not like him to give up so easily, and he says, it’s not like he can change the weather in Port Charles. She says, maybe not, but Christmas is a time for magic and miracles. So what does he say they make some happen for Georgie?

Brook’s phone rings, and she asks Maxie, what’s up? Maxie says she has a problem, and she’s hoping Brook can help her. Her flight to Portland was canceled. She can still get there. She just needs a private plane from the Toronto hangar. Please tell her one of those planes has Brook’s family’s name on it. Britt says, let her see what she can do.

Cody says, not much has changed. Olivia is still mother to all the misfits. She tells him, like she said to Austin, no one should be alone on Christmas. He says he appreciates it. Let him know if there’s anything he can do to help. The doorbell rings, and she says, he can get the lasagna out of the oven. She wonders, what now? and opens the door. A young pregnant woman wearing a blue wrap is standing there, and Olivia says, holy mother of God. The woman says she’s sorry to barge in on their holiday. She was part of a live nativity scene, and the car won’t start. Not that it matters, since the roads are blocked anyway. Would it be possible for her to wait here until a Ride Share can take her home? Olivia says, of course (🍷). Come in. This must be stressful for her. She must have a houseful of people waiting. The woman says, no one actually. This is their first, and her husband’s working the plows today, so he’ll probably be late. Olivia says, she was planning on spending Christmas all alone? and the woman says, technically, she has company, but Olivia says, no, no, no, no. She’s staying right here. She’s eating Christmas dinner with them. The woman asks if she’s sure, and Olivia says she wouldn’t have it any other way. Go into the living room and introduce herself, and make sure she puts her feet up. The woman says, Olivia is so kind, and thanks her. Cody wonders where Olivia wants the lasagna, and asks, what’s wrong? Olivia says, they’re gonna need a bigger lasagna.

Sonny says, they’re getting there, and Sasha says, it would have taken days without his help. Britt knocks at the door, and asks if they’re open. She walks in, and wonders what Sasha and Sonny are going here. Sasha says, long story. Britt? Britt says, in typical her fashion, she ignored the warnings about the roads. Her car spun a few blocks away. Sonny asks if she’s okay, and she says, the only thing bruised is her ego. Sasha says, the garage is closed, but Britt is welcome to call AAA, assuming they can get here. Sonny says, that’s assuming a lot, and Britt says, this is not how she wanted to spend her last Christmas in Port Charles. Sasha says, last? Is she going somewhere?

Austin says, Brook seems a little tense, and she says she is. Maxie needs to get to Portland, but all of the commercial flights have been grounded. She’s trying to hook maxi up with her family’s private jet that flies out of Canada, but apparently, there’s a mile long line at the border. Even if she were to brave the roads, it could be hours before she takes off. He says, if she bothers to use the roads, and Brook says, something’s going on in his head; what is it? He asks her to tell Maxie to get to the pier as soon as she can, and he’ll take care of the rest. He calls Mason, and says he’s done everything Mason has asked him to do, and asked nothing in return. Now he is. He needs Mason to send a boat to the pier in Port Charles. He needs to get somebody he cares about to Canada without the hassle of border security.

Jordan thanks someone on the phone, and says, she and the mayor appreciate it. She tells Laura, those needing medical attention have been airlifted to the hospital, but there’s been no reports of serious injuries or fatalities. Laura says, it’s a Christmas miracle. What did they say about the roads? How quickly can they be cleared? Jordan says, the plows are out, but it’s going to be tough. Laura says, tough, but not impossible. Let’s get it done. Jordan says, got it, and Laura leaves.

Maxie wonders what’s taking so long, and Obrecht says, patience. Maxie says, that’s not her strong suit, when her phone rings. She asks Brook to tell her that she has good news, and Brook says, the jet is all hers, but she’s taking a boat to Canada. Maxie asks, why? but Brook says, there’s no time for questions. Just get her booty to the pier, and give Georgie a big squeeze when she sees her. Maxie thanks Brook, and says she owes her. She tells Nina and Obrecht that she guesses she’s going to the pier, and Obrecht says, she’ll escort Maxie. Nina says she’ll come with Maxie, but Maxie says, Sonny is coming over, and they need to spend Christmas together. She hugs Nina, and leaves with Obrecht.

Everyone gathers in the living room after dinner, and Ned asks Olivia, who is the incredibly pregnant young lady? Olivia says, just another guest for dinner, and he says, this is getting ridiculous. She says, it’s a little on the nose to say there’s no room at the inn. It might not be the incredibly intimate Christmas they planned, but it’s the Christmas they’ve got. Capisce? He says, capisce, and she says, her arrabbiata sauce was apparently a big hit, and he says, she made her lasagna with her arrabbiata sauce? and she says, she found some left over in the ice box. He says, that sauce is incredibly spicy, and that is an incredibly pregnant woman, but she says, even she’s telling him, that old spicy food thing is an old wives – the woman says, oh my God, and looks down – tale.

The woman says, not now, not here, and Olivia tells Ned to get some blankets, pillows, and towels. Cody says he’ll call 911, but Brook says, there’s no way they’re going to get here with all the road closures. The woman says, this isn’t happening, and Olivia says she’ll talk her through this. Brook says she pretended to give birth, and Olivia says, not helping. Ned comes back with the linens, and they situate the woman on the floor. Molly says, TJ is a doctor; he can help deliver the baby. He says he’s never done it before, but he can figure it out. Austin comes in, and asks if this is what he thinks it is, and Olivia says, another doctor. Teamwork makes dream work. Get going.

Scotty says he knows Elizabeth is a little down, but here’s the good news. She says, there’s good news? and he says, she’s the most resilient girl he’s ever met. She takes the cards that are dealt her, and she never complains… almost never. Look at the home she’s made for the kids. They feel loved and safe. For that, he respects her, and salutes her as well. She thanks him for saying that, and he says, Jeff is a fool not to see what a great daughter he’s got. Even though Franco’s gone, she’s still a Baldwin. Never forget that. She says she won’t, and they hug.

Austin tells the woman that she’s doing great. He asks TJ to watch her for a second, and TJ tells her, keep breathing like they talked about. Brook says, she’ll go get some ice, and in the foyer, Cody asks Austin, what’s going on? Austin says, this isn’t going to be easy, and Cody says, that’s obvious, but he delivered Maxie’s baby, right? Austin says, Maxie’s baby wasn’t breach, and Cody asks if that wasn’t something the mother would have known, but Austin says, not necessarily if the baby’s flipped recently. If they were in a hospital, all kinds of options would be available, including an emergency C-section. But here, what this woman needs is a trained OB.

Britt tells Sasha that she has no immediate plans to leave, but she has a job interview in Boston. Please don’t tell anyone. Sasha says, Britt’s secret is safe with her, when Britt’s phone rings. She asks what Cody wants, and he says, merry Christmas to her too. He knows she doesn’t want to hear from him, but he’s at the Quartermaines’ with Austin and TJ. She says, congratulations, and he asks her to just listen. The Virgin Mary is giving birth today; like, right now. She asks how much eggnog he’s had, but he says he’s not drunk. Austin takes the phone, and says, there’s a woman here. She’s in labor, and the baby’s breach. It’s not his level of expertise, and he needs her to talk him through this. She says, this woman needs a hospital and a specialist, and he says he agrees, but thanks to the weather, it’s not an option. Neither a car nor an ambulance can get through these roads. Sasha and Sonny get the bike started.  

TJ tells the woman that she’s doing great. Deep breaths; in through the nose, out through the mouth. When you exhale, try focusing on relaxing an area of the body. She says, he wants her to relax? and Brook says, they thought Thanksgiving was dramatic. Mr. Wattles’ got nothing on this situation. Molly says, Mr. who? and the woman screams.  

In the foyer, Olivia says, the baby’s breach? and Austin says, there’s a pretty substantial chance something’s going to go really, really wrong. Ned asks what they can do, and Austin says, TJ can treat the mother post-birth, but they need to get this woman to a hospital on foot. Olivia asks if it’s safe, but Austin says he doesn’t know what else to do without a trained OB. They hear tires screeching, and Britt comes in with Sasha through the patio door. She says, sorry about Monica’s begonias, but she heard there’s a baby that needs delivering.

Elizabeth says she didn’t think Laura was going to make it, and Laura says, it was an eventful day, but she thinks it’s calming down now. Elizabeth asks if Laura would like some tea, but Laura says, she’s okay. She asks how Elizabeth is holding up, and Elizabeth says, since her not so happy reunion with her parents? She’s okay. She wants to be okay. Laura says, she will be, and if Elizabeth needs support, she’s here. They hug.

Britt says she knows this isn’t how the woman envisioned this to go down, but she seems to be made of tough stuff, and has three MDs to coach her through it. The baby is a little upside down at the moment. The woman asks if that’s dangerous, and Britt says, no. It just means she has to push extra hard when Britt gives the word. The woman has a contraction, and Britt says, here we go. Push. The woman screams.

Maxie tells the clerk at the airport check-in that she needs to get to Portland; Oregon, not Maine. He says, this is Edmonton, Alberta, and she says she knows that, but her daughter is in Portland, and she promised they’d be together on Christmas. He says he understands her dilemma… but she says she doesn’t think he does. First, her flight gets canceled. Then she has to take a super shady boat to a super awesome private plane, which has to land because of the weather. Now she just needs to know when she’s getting back in the air. He says, there’s really no way of knowing with the storm. No one is taking off tonight. He’s sorry. He gives her a candy cane, and says, merry Christmas. She sits down, and says, merry Christmas.

The baby cries, and the woman says, that’s a good sign, right? Britt says, it’s a great sign, and hands her the baby, saying, meet her little girl. The woman says, she’s perfect. Hello, baby. It’s your first day. So much wonder for you to see. She tells Britt, live every day like it’s your first, right? Molly asks if she’s thought of a name yet, and the woman says, Noelle seems appropriate, all things considered. Olivia says, it certainly does, and the woman asks what Britt’s name is. Britt tells her, Britt. It’s short for Britta. The woman says, Britta Noelle. It has a nice ring to it, doesn’t she think? If she doesn’t mind of course (🍷). Britt says she doesn’t mind at all.

Brook says, in all the commotion, she didn’t get a chance to thank Austin for what he did for Maxie. Austin says, of course (🍷). He really wants Maxie to be happy, even if she’s not happy with him. Brook tells him that she’s not saying she was wrong about him, but he might have some redeeming qualities she might have overlooked. He says, thanks; he’ll take it. Jordan comes in with an officer, and TJ asks what she’s doing here. She says she was dealing with the roads when she got a call about an incident at the Quartermaine’s, and the woman tells Britta Noelle that the incident was her. Jordan says she sees that. Here she was, worried about missing Christmas with TJ, but from the looks of it, he kept quite busy. Molly says, TJ was incredible, and Olivia says she thinks they all earned a gold star today. TJ says, Dr. Westbourne in particular, and asks Jordan if traffic is moving. She says, slowly, but yeah, and he says, they should probably get out of these guys’ hair. Ned says, after the day they’ve had, he thinks it’s only fitting they all stay, and they celebrate together. Britt asks if he’s sure, and Olivia says, positive. Jordan says, it sounds wonderful, and there are hugs all around. Cody and Britt exchange looks.

Scotty asks what Laura and Elizabeth think of his dance moves, and Elizabeth says, they were… Laura says, smooth, very smooth. Scotty says, they’re secretly laughing at him, but Laura says she’s enjoying him. He’s a terrific grandpa. He says, she’s no slouch in that department either. Elizabeth says, all this time, she was focusing on the parents who weren’t there for her, when she should have been focused on the people who were. The people who have always been by her side; the people she’s always needed. Sonny tells Laura that he thinks she’s talking about them, and they have a three-way hug, as Cameron comes downstairs. He smiles.

Maxie leaves a voicemail for Spinelli, asking why he’s not answering his phone. Call her. Spinelli and Georgie walk into the airport, and he says, Maximista? Georgie runs to Maxie, and she asks what they’re doing here. He says, he knew they wanted to see each other. The plan was to fly into Canada, and drive to Port Charles. Maxie says, great minds think alike. And Georgie is the best Christmas present ever. She hugs Georgie, and thanks Spinelli. He says, it’s nothing, but she says, it’s everything. He’s always been there for her, through all of it. She doesn’t know what she’d do without him. He says, she’ll never have to find out, and they, too, have a three-way hug.

Ellie’s phone rings, and we see it’s Griffin Munro, who I continually think is dead. She says, hey you. Merry Christmas.

There’s a knock at Nina’s door. She drags Sonny in, and kisses him.

There’s a knock at Elizabeth’s door, and Scotty opens it. Obrecht dances in, holding mistletoe over her head, and he kisses her.

At the Quartermaines’, Cody looks at Britt. She looks away, and goes to the window.

At the airport, Spinelli eats pizza, while Georgie shows off her new sweater to Maxie, and they talk and laugh.

Deck the Halls plays while we see the once-a-year full credits.

No preview.

💍 Spinelli’s Second Choice…

Actually, I can see her with Griff. He was a bit of a nerd.

Emily Wilson Returns to GENERAL HOSPITAL!

🎍 O Moss Bowl…

This article contains a picture of the moss bowl🎍. Who cares what it says?

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/ghs-maurice-benard-says-goodbye-to-marcus-coloma

🧙🏻‍♂️ Tanzanian Devil…

His name wasn’t Shiloh or Josiah, was it?

Melissa Archer Reveals How She Escaped a Cult

🐶 Me Too…

He’s definitely cute, but mine’s cuter. He’s from No Paw Left Behind. Behold El Wray.

Oh yeah.

GH Alum Teresa Castillo Rescued the Cutest Puppy!

😭 Oh Boo Hoo…

I’d actually forgotten she was on the show. And the most awful human being on the face of the earth – i.e. Jax – deserved to be fired a while ago. Maybe even on the first day.

Kristen Doute Says She And Jax Taylor “Fought The Entire Weekend” During Scheana Shay’s Wedding Because Of The Vanderpump Rules Cameras

🍊 Old News…

Vicki is like the next Jill Zaren.

Vicki Gunvalson Reveals She Was “Jealous” That Tamra Judge Returned To Real Houswives Of Orange County

🍹 Hilton Head Gets My Vote…

I’m surprised they didn’t include Ashley calling Kathryn an egg donor at whatever ball that was.

Best Unhinged Moments On Southern Charm!

🎄 Not Quite Like Us…

The cards.

https://www.purewow.com/entertainment/best-celebrity-christmas-cards

The decorations.

https://www.lofficielusa.com/pop-culture/celebrity-holiday-christmas-decorations-2022

The celebrations.

https://www.eonline.com/photos/35242/celebrities-celebrate-the-holidays-2022-christmas-hanukkah-and-more

🎅🏽 WTF…?

I have no clue what this is, but it sounds slightly intriguing.

https://www.techradar.com/how-to/how-to-watch-pointless-celebrities-christmas-special-online-stream-from-anywhere

🎩 Quotes of the Week

There are many things from which I might have derived good, by which I have not profited, I dare say,’ returned the nephew. ‘Christmas among the rest. . . . And therefore, uncle, though it has never put a scrap of gold or silver in my pocket, I believe that it has done me good, and will do me good; and I say, God bless it!

For it is good to be children sometimes, and never better than at Christmas, when its mighty Founder was a child Himself.

I will honour Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year. I will live in the Past, the Present, and the Future. The Spirits of all Three shall strive within me. I will not shut out the lessons that they teach!

[A]nd it was always said of him, that he knew how to keep Christmas well, if any man alive possessed the knowledge. May that be truly said of us, and all of us! And so, as Tiny Tim observed, God bless Us, Every One!

✨ – from A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

🎁 Decking the Halls…

Hard to believe another year has almost gone by. Hoping that Santa has you on the nice list, and that all your Christmas wishes – or non-Christmas wishes – come true. I’m not sure about Monday’s Deck or soap, but if it airs, it will be here. Until then, stay safe, stay open to whatever the holiday weekend brings you, and stay living every day as if it’s your first. You’ll never lose sight of all the magic and wonder around you.

Dec23

December 22, 2022 – Ryan the Red-Nosed Reindeer, a Gallery of Pets (!) & King

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Brook turns and sees Chase come into Rice Plaza wearing his leather jacket. She runs up on stage, goes to the mic, and says, good evening everyone. She knows they’re anxious for the main event to begin, and the concert will start in just a few minutes, but first they’ll announce the results of their ugly Christmas sweater contest. Their first runner up is Detective Dante Falconari. The crowd applauds, and it’s a lot louder than the amount of people there. Sam asks if Dante entered the contest, and he says he didn’t. He doesn’t know what she’s talking about. This is his favorite sweater. FYI, it’s hardly an ugly sweater, so I’m not getting this. Brook goes over to Chase, and says she didn’t know he’d come. He says, neither did he. Dante told him that the CCRB may be reviewing his case in a few months, thanks to her letter and whatever else she did. Which was what exactly?

Sasha and Nina cross the plaza, dressed an elf and Mrs. Claus respectively. Sasha says, looks like Brook pulled it off, and Nina says, just in the St. Nick of time. Sasha says, Nina’s holiday humor is on point, and Sonny joins them with Donna, saying, look who it is; Mrs. Claus. Nina says, with her trusted assistant elf, and Sonny tells Donna, like they practiced. Donna hands Nina a gift bag, and tells her, merry Christmas.

On the phone, Carly says she just got home, and she’s getting everything ready. Kristina comes home for Christmas, and they’ll be all set when she gets here. So text when she leaves Trina’s. Love you. The doorbell rings, and Carly opens the door to Ava and Avery, who says, merry Christmas, Mama Carly, and hugs her.

Spencer tells Trina, merry Christmas, and she says, he told her that he was leaving town. He says he thought there was nothing here for him anymore, but he was wrong. But if she wants him to go, just say the words and he’ll leave.

Esme sings, ♫ jingle hell, jingle hell, jingle all the way. So much pain Nik will feel when daddy comes to slay – hey! ♫ What does Ace think? A solid plan? She knows it’s risky, but she promised to do all she can to get out of here. Because she’s starting the new year off with a real family. Nikolas comes in and, who that would be? knocking back some of his drink.

Heather puts a Santa hat and beard on Ryan, and says, perfect fit, as the guard watches. She tells Ryan, buck up, Santa. Bad attitudes get bupkis under the tree. She glances at the guard, and lowers her voice, saying, and this year, their Christmas lists have one thing in common. Justice for their little girl, and pain for everyone who hurt her.

By the side of the road somewhere, Josslyn checks one of the tires on her car. She looks at her phone, and says, still no bars. Just great. She sees headlights coming down the street toward her. She thanks them for stopping, and says, actually, she figured it out. So she doesn’t need any help, and she’s sure they have somewhere they need to be. We see a pair of black boots walking toward her, and Dex says, here’s good.

Spencer tells Trina, he gets it. This is the definition of should have called first. He’s sorry for the intrusion. He starts to leave, but she says, shoes off, and he follows her inside.

Esme asks if Nikolas is drunk, and he says, she never talks about her family. She says, he never asks. Unless it’s about the baby or her supposed crime spree, he’s not interested. He locks the door, and says, no adoptive family to pine for; they’re gone. She says, thanks for the reminder, and he says, her biological family is a mystery, so what’s left? Chosen family? Close friends that are searching for her; would move heaven and earth to find her? She asks if that’s so impossible to believe, and he says, in a word, yes. As far as he can tell, the only person who gives a damn about her is him. How sad is that? The man whose life she dismantled is the closest thing she has to family. She says, so he gives a damn about her. How would Ava react to him talking like that? He says, wouldn’t she like to know? and she says she thinks she does. He should be with his wife right now, or at least attempting to woo her back. Instead, he’s here, half-drunk and lording his power over her. Tell her. Did Ava finally wise up and cut him loose for good?

Carly says she’s so happy to see Avery. Is Santa outside? Avery asks, why? and Carly says, because she’s the best present he could have brought her. Avery says, Santa’s busy tonight, and Carly says, he sure is. Ava says, they were just on their way to the Gingerbread Jam, and thought they’d stop by for a visit. Carly asks if Avery has time for some hot cocoa, and Avery asks Ava if they do. Ava says she thinks they can squeeze it in, and Carly tells Donna, run to the kitchen; it’s all set up. Avery runs off, and Carly thanks Ava. Ava says she was just accommodating Avery’s wishes. Take her time. She’ll wait in the car. Carly says, why doesn’t Ava join them?… Or don’t. She knows Carly’s not going to say please.

Mac and Felicia see Sam and Dante, who has a winner ribbon on his sweater, and Mac, wearing a true ugly Christmas sweater, says, they missed the judging? Felicia asks how that’s an ugly sweater, and Dante tells her, that’s what he was saying. Mac says he put a lot of time and effort into this sweater, and I wonder if he’s taken up knitting. Mac’s phone dings, and he says, duty calls. He steps away, and Sam says, that is one of the ugliest sweaters she’s ever seen. Felicia says, isn’t it?

Brook says she didn’t know the Review Board was revisiting Chase’s case, but he says, considering revisiting. She says, this is amazing, and he says, it could be, but he has the feeling her letter alone isn’t enough to seal the deal. She says she didn’t even know they read the letter. What’s with the third degree? Isn’t this what he wanted? He says, of course (🍷) it’s what he wanted. He’s just trying to figure… Linc (the real Linc) says, they were supposed to be on stage ten minutes ago. Is this happening or not? Because if it isn’t, Brook can kiss their partnership, and all her precious songs, goodbye.

Nina looks at an ornament, and tells Donna, this is absolutely beautiful. Did she do it herself? Donna says, daddy helped, and Nina says, let her guess what part he helped with; the glitter. Sonny asks how she knew, and she says, because he’s still wearing some of it, brushing his coat. She says she knows the perfect spot for it on her tree; she wants it front and center. Sasha gives Donna a candy cane, and says, she can put this on the tree too. Donna says, or eat it, and Sasha says, she’d better ask her dad first. Sonny says, it’s Christmas Eve. Donna can have a candy cane. He asks Sasha to take Donna to see the reindeer, and Sasha says, she’d be delighted, taking Donna’s hand. They leave, and Nina sighs.

Brook takes the mic again, and says, ladies and gentlemen, the moment you’ve been waiting for. She introduces Blaze and Chase, who take the stage. Blaze says, their new song drops tonight, but guess who gets to hear it first? The crowd cheers, and Blaze and Chase sing I’ll Find a Way to You.

Dex asks if she’s okay, and Josslyn says she’s fine. What is he doing here? He says, tailing her, and she says, wow. He’s not even going to try to come up with another excuse. He says, why bother? and feels her neck, asking if it hurts. She says, a little, and he asks if she’s sure she’s okay. She says, she’s fine, something he’s not going be when Sonny finds out about this. He says he’ll heal, and she says, and if there’s a meat hook involved? He says, better him on a hook than a hook in her.

Spencer asks where everyone is, and Trina says, watching a movie. He says, they went all out with the Christmas decorations, and she tells him that her mom, Marshall, and Curtis went all out. This isn’t the norm for a Robinson Christmas. He says, makes sense though. First Christmas in a new house; gotta go big. She says, they’re trying to make things better for her, and he says, after Rory? She says she appreciates the effort, but… He says, it didn’t work, and she tells him, don’t say anything. She played along, and pretended to be in the spirit, but honestly, her only wish for this Christmas, is to wake up and have the last few days be a bad dream. He says, the past few years for him. He would change everything. She says, everything? and he says, except for coming back to Port Charles. Because then he wouldn’t have met her.

Blaze and Chase finish the song, and the crowd goes wild. Mac tells Felicia that he knows it’s Christmas Eve, but he has to cut out early. Dante walks over, and asks, what’s going on? Did he get a break with Cabrera? Mac tells him, enjoy the night off, but Dante says, what is it? Is it the earring? Felicia says she’ll see Mac later, hopefully under the mistletoe, but he says, actually, she’s coming with him. She says, she is?  But if this is police business… He says, partly, but it’s also personal. They do have a lead on Rory’s murder, and it goes back to her and Ryan Chamberlain.

Heather has Ryan dressed like a red-nosed reindeer, and adjusts his antlers (I’m dying here). She takes out a small giftbox, puts it in his lap, and smiles.

Mac says, forensics ID’d the DNA on the earring as belonging to Gloria Wilson, and Dante asks if that’s someone they know. Felicia says, it’s Ryan’s ex-wife, and Dante asks if Mac is saying she’s working with Esme now. Is she a suspect? Mac says, she can’t be, and Felicia says, she’s dead. Felicia witnessed her murder; Ryan killed her 30 years ago. Dante asks how an earring from the victim of a serial killer shows up connected to another victim of a serial killer three decades later? and Mac says, good question. Felicia says, there’s only way to get answers, but Mac says he may have changed his mind. Felicia tells him, too late. Like he said, this is personal

Brook says, Blaze and Chase were incredible. Can they feel the energy out here? Linc says, Blaze was real pitchy, and they need to talk wardrobe. He said, Santa’s mistress, not Santa’s mother-in-law. He leads her away, and Brook says, she can’t wait for that sleaze to be canceled. Chase says he hears that, and she asks if that means what she thinks it means. Is he willing to give them another shot?

Dante tells Sam, they got a lead on The Hook, and she asks what he’s still doing here. Go. He kisses her, and leaves.

Dex messes with Josslyn’s tire, and he asks if she got service. She says she saw an autobody shop about 50 yards down; the tow’s on its way. He doesn’t have to wait with her. The tow truck’s going to get here, and it’s freezing. He takes off his coat, and she asks what he’s doing. He tells her that she said she was cold, but she says she meant she didn’t want him to be cold. He puts his coat around her, and she says, if she wants him to take his clothes off, he’ll know. He asks, how so? and she says she’s very direct that way. He says he likes that about her. She says what’s on her mind; what she’s feeling, except for when she’s not sure. She says, excuse me. She’s fully in touch with all her feelings. He tells her, if she says so, and she says she does. He says, care to test that?

Avery takes the tissue paper out of a giftbag, and says, walkie talkies? Carly says, she’s too young for a phone – Ava says, much too young – and anyway, these are much more fun, because only people who know her secret frequency can talk to her. Ava  tells Avery to give it a try, and Avery runs upstairs with one. Carly says, it’s supposed to snow tonight, and Ava says, mm-hmm. Carly asks if Sonny has Avery tomorrow, and Ava says, he does. Carly says, that’s all she’s got, and Ava says, she told Carly that she’d wait in the car. Carly says, so Ava can call Nina and they can talk about her? but Ava says, no. They avoid the subject of Carly like the plague. Carly says, Nikolas then, and Ava almost chokes on her coffee. Carly says, is there trouble in paradise? Wow. And after Ava reveled in Carly’s divorce. Ava says, she knows. Karma is indeed a bitch.

Esme says she didn’t think she’d live to see the day, and Nikolas says, drop it. She asks if it’s hit the society pages yet, and flashes back to Ryan telling her, time is running out for destroying Ava and Nikolas. She says, daddy would be so pleased, and Nikolas asks what she said. She tells him, she asked who gets the house, and he asks, what part of drop it is confusing? She says, don’t worry, Ace. Your father’s not mad at you. He’s mad at himself. He has a bad habit of miscalculating, like when he locked your mother up in here because he thought she was the boogeyman. She tells Nikolas, he knows she’s not. He’ll figure that out when someone else dies, and he has only himself to blame.

Spencer says he’s so sorry about Rory, and Trina says, her too. He says he’s heard from pretty much everyone what a good guy he was. Obviously, Rory meant a lot to her. She says, it’s still so weird to hear people talk about him in the past tense, and Spencer says he’s sorry. She says, don’t be. Spencer’s right. He was here, and now he’s gone, because of her. Spencer says, no, but she says, if Rory had never met her, he’d still be alive. Spencer says he’s to blame. It’s his fault. He  brought Esme to Port Charles, and put Trina in her path, and she says she knows he’s trying to help, and she’s grateful, but Esme being caught is the only thing that will make it right. Not better, but right. He says he agrees. Esme needs to be brought to justice. And if the police won’t do it, he will.

Heather tells Ryan, merry Christmas. It’s the least she could do after he took such good care of their daughter. Don’t worry that he didn’t get her anything. Those bedroom eyes are gift enough. Besides, she didn’t spend a dime on it. Well, isn’t he going to open it? She laughs, and says, just kidding. He’s going to jump for joy when he sees what’s inside… Oops. He can’t, can he? Besides, they don’t want the loons around here getting jealous. Mac says, PCPD. They’re here to see one of their guests. Felicia says, that’s a generous description, and Heather shoves the gift under Ryan’s blanket. Mac tells her, step away from Ryan, and Dante asks what Heather was doing with him.

Chase says he’s willing to give this another try. Because no matter what happens, Linc needs to be stopped. She says, he has no idea how happy this makes her, and moves closer, but he backs up. He says he wants to be clear. When he says, give this another try, he means their business partnership, nothing more.

Nina says, her goal is to not be a downer tonight,  but Sonny says, that’s impossible. Nina says, with what happened to Rory, it makes her think about Jay (Nathan), and he says, that makes sense. She says, and it’s not lost on her that it’s difficult for him to think about his son putting his life on the line every day. He says, maybe he deserves it, considering what he put people through over the years. He suggests they go to Saints on the way home, and light a candle for her brother, and she says, and for Dante. He says, done, and they hug.

Heather asks if that’s Mac Scorpio under all that scruff. Meow. Felicia says, he’s taken, and Heather says, the Aztec princess herself. It is such an honor to be in the presence of royalty. She bows, and Mac asks if she knows who that is. She says, of course (🍷). Ryan Chamberlain is practically the mayor in these parts. She’s just a volunteer fill-in while his orderly’s off the clock. Dante says, that’s good; she can translate.  Mac shows Ryan the evidence bag with the earring in it, and says, lose something?

Spencer says, the whole reason Esme came after Trina is because she knows hurting Trina means hurting him. And now she’s coming after the people closest to Trina; the people who stood in her corner and defended her. All due credit to Ava and Diane. She says, but Spencer was her biggest defender, and he says, Esme hates him for it. He’s her biggest target. Well, if Esme wants him, she can have him.

Josslyn asks if this is some sort of communication exercise, and Dex says, tell him how she feels, give it a moment, and he’ll do the same. She says, challenge accepted. Right now, she feels annoyed. He says, and he feels victorious, and she says, impatient. He says, challenged, and she says, amused. He says, pleased, and she says, curious. He says, engaged, and she says, uncomfortable. He says, concerned, and she says, embarrassed. He says, skeptical, and moves closer. She says, honest, and he says, doubly skeptical. She says, guilty, he moves even closer, and says, gripped. She says, breathless, and he says, warm. She says, warmer, and he says, hot, and kisses her. They see the lights of the tow  truck, and he says, sorry. She says, don’t be, but he says he shouldn’t have complicated things. She says, would he stop? She doesn’t need him making excuses for her choices. He says, that’s not what he meant, but she hands him back his coat, and heads for the tow truck, thanking them for coming.

Sasha asks Donna what she asked Santa for, and Donna asks if he’ll still bring it if she tells. Sasha says, Donna is thinking of birthday wishes; those are supposed to be kept secret. Christmas is different, but Donna doesn’t have to tell her if she doesn’t want to. Donna says she asked Santa to bring Sasha a happy new year, and Sasha says, Donna’s Christmas wish was for her? That is the kindest, most generous thing. Sasha thanks her, and Donna says she hopes Santa comes through. Sasha says, so does she, and asks if Donna wants to get some cocoa. Donna says, with extra marshmallows, and they walk off.

Brook says she’s confused. She thought… Chase says, they had an agreement. He promised to help get her songs back from Linc and he’s keeping that promise, but that’s it; that’s as far as this goes. She says, but the letter; his second chance with the CCRB. Doesn’t that give them a second chance too? He says he appreciates what she did for him, and that is why he’s here tonight, but that doesn’t change the fact she played God with his future. She says, that’s a little bit of an overstatement, but he says he disagrees. She took away his agency. She made choices without consulting him about his own life. She says she’s so sorry, and he says he knows she is. She asks if they can’t get past this. Go back to the way things were. She takes his hand, and he says, no, they can’t, and walks away.

Ava says, don’t let her hold Carly back from celebrating, and Carly says she can’t believe Nikolas cheated on Ava. Ava says, multiple times with multiple women, and Carly says, wow. She thought he was smarter than that. She’s really sorry. Ava says, so is she, when Avery’s voice comes over the walkie talkie, saying, mommy? Ava says, hi, sweetheart, and Avery says, does it work? Ava says, yes, it’s working, and tells her to come back. It’s time for them to go to the Gingerbread Jam. And what does she say to Carly? Donna says, thank you, Mama Carly, and Carly says, she’s welcome. Ava tells Carly, that’s a thoughtful gift, and thanks her. They wish each other a merry Christmas, and Carly wishes Ava a happy New Year if she doesn’t see her. Ava says, God knows she can’t wait for this one to be over, and Carly says, let’s hope for a fresh start for all of us.

Heather says, didn’t Jordan tell you, no Ava, no info, and asks Mac what that means. Dante says, a cop is dead, you son of a bitch. Talk now. Mac tells Dante to take a break, and Dante asks if Mac can’t see Ryan is messing with them, but Mac says, that’s an order. Dante walks out, and Mac says, Ryan knows damn well this is his ex-wife’s. It was found on the person of Rory Cabrera. Felicia says, one of Port Charles’ finest, and Mac says, right after he succumbed to wounds inflicted by a serial killer they believe to be Esme Prince. Felicia says, he remembers Esme, right? One of his former confidants in here. Mac says, Ryan’s room is being tossed as they speak, and Heather says, they can just waltz in here and do that? Felicia says, inmate’s rights are limited at best, but she’s sure Heather knows that already. She tells Ryan, if there’s evidence connecting him and Esme’s murders, they’ll find it, and Mac says, even if there isn’t, he’s putting all this before a judge. Ryan is up to his ears in this case. Felicia says, when Mac is through, Ryan is going to D’Archam for the rest of his sorry life.

Spencer tells Trina, he’ll create a situation so tempting, Esme won’t be able to resist. She’ll come for him, but he’ll be ready. Trina asks if he’s insane. He’s not baiting that maniac. He says, it’s not her call, and she says, it’s Jordan’s. He says, she’d rat him out? and she says, it beats burying him. He says, this will work. All he’s got to do is lure Esme out of hiding. Trina starts to argue, but he says, she’s not going to have the element of surprise anymore. She says, lure Esme out how? and he says he doesn’t know; he hasn’t gotten that far yet, but he will, and it will be inspired. Tell him that she thinks this is a good idea. She says, it has potential, but it’s missing one key factor – her.

Nikolas says, how nice of Esme to find pleasure in his misfortune, and she says, no one is keeping him here, unlike her. If he doesn’t like her attitude, he can leave. He says, excuse him for checking in, and she says, he has Demetrius for that, but he says, she’s not carrying Demetrius’s child. He needed to see for himself that she’s all right. She asks if she looks all right. It’s freezing in here, she sleeps on moth eaten linens, she has no one to talk to except the baby. He asks what she talks to the baby about, and she says, since when does he care? He says, she’s bored, and wants real conversation; he’s here. She says, he’s only here because he has nowhere else to go, and no one else to talk to. And he calls her sad. He walks out, locking the door in the hallway, and she says, think about it. The closest thing he has to companionship is his prisoner. She laughs.

Josslyn comes home, and Carly says she was so worried about her. She says hi to Dex, and Josslyn says, Dex took over for Steve, and she was having car trouble, so he gave her a ride home. Carly thanks him, and he says, no problem. Josslyn says, Carly didn’t start the movie without her, but Carly says she’d never start the movie without her. She’ll go get the popcorn. She tells Dex, merry Christmas, and he says, back at her. She leaves, and Josslyn says, thanks again. He says, any time, looks up at the mistletoe, and tells her, hopefully, sooner than later.

Trina says, Spencer alone isn’t enough bait, but them together, pretending to turn to each other after Rory’s death, Esme won’t be able to help herself. He says, absolutely not. It’s dangerous. She says, he can take risks, but not her. He has to admit it’s a good idea. He says, it has potential, but he still doesn’t like it. She asks, what’s the alternative? Do nothing, and let someone else suffer as a result? He knows they’re stronger together. He says, this is so not what he had in mind when he came over, and she says she thought he came be her friend and try to make her feel better. He says, of course (🍷) he did, and she says, then mission accomplished. Is he in or what? She holds out her hand and they shake.

Mac says, Ryan’s window of opportunity is rapidly closing. Give up Esme before they nail her, and she gives him up. Mac walks out, and Felicia tells Heather, don’t be fooled. Ryan is dangerous even shut in here. Tread carefully. She walks to the door, and Heather says, Feliz Navidad, your highness… Or is it your majesty?… No, your highness.

Nikolas brings Esme new linens, and says, he also turned up the heat. Don’t say he’s never done anything for her. As for lonely, she doesn’t know the meaning of the word, but she’ll discover it on Cassadine Island. Merry Christmas. He leaves, and she half-smiles.

Heather retrieves the giftbox, and Ryan grabs her wrist. He says, that earring was on the chain she pilfered from him years ago. She jerks away, and says, just for that, she’s not giving him his present. He says, she still has that chain, doesn’t she? and she puts her finger to her lips. She sings, ♫ silent night, holy night. All is calm, all is bright. ♫ The guard watches, and she continues singing as she leaves.

Heather’s singing turns into Chase and Blaze continuing Silent Night. As they sing…

Dante returns, and it begins to snow.

Esme adjusts the angel on the top of the tree. An idea blooms as she puts the toilet paper garland near one of the lights.

Spencer and Trina go outside, she wipes snow from his face, and he leaves.

Carly and Josslyn eat popcorn while they watch the movie, and Josslyn smiles.

Dex walks in the snow, and flashes back to kissing Josslyn.

Sonny and Nina kiss, and Sam and Dante kiss.

Tomorrow, Brook tells someone that she’ll see what she can do; Britt says, this isn’t how she wanted to spend her last Christmas in Port Charles; Sonny tells Sasha, they can do this by dinnertime; and Cody tells Olivia, they have a situation.

🦙 Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop…

More celebrity pets. Also a good photo gallery to get pet names from if you get stuck.

https://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/gossip/nydn-famous-celebrity-pets-20190212-photogallery.html

✉️ Hustling and Bustling…

There was a time when I had cards out the weekend after Thanksgiving. Now I’m lucky if they’re out by New Year’s. This year, they will be postmarked by Christmas Eve, dammit. That’s my excuse for cutting it short, and I’m sticking to it. Drop in tomorrow for soap, a spot of tea, and whatever holiday cheer I can drum up. Until then, stay safe, stay not feeling pressured into holly jolliness, and stay having a good attitude, because bad attitudes get bupkis under the tree.

Dec22

December 21, 2022 – Christmas Eve In Port Charles, More Sad, Granddad Sonny, Getting Closer, Mishaps On Deck, Good War, Puppies (!) & Spicier Wrapping

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Leo and Wiley open their presents at the Quartermaines’, and Olivia says, it’s a shame Monica is under the weather. She would have loved this. Michael and Willow play with Wiley.

The Gingerbread Jam is being set up at Rice Plaza, and Maxie gets a text from her mom: I’m here, where are you? Austen approaches her, and she asks what he’s doing here. He says he thought they had a plan.

Spencer arrives at Alexis’s house, and Sam says, the kids are upstairs making videos for social media. Whatever you do, do not engage. Spencer thanks Alexis for having him, and she hugs him, saying, he’s always welcome here. She’s just surprised his father didn’t monopolize him over the holidays now that he’s out of Pentenville. Spencer says he can see his father every day, not so much all of them, so he wanted to make up for it this Christmas, and Alexis say, famous last words.

Trina comes downstairs, and says, gosh, looking at all the fabulous decorations. She sees Curtis, Portia, Marshall, and Josslyn waiting for her, and says, what’s all this? Curtis says, they wanted to do something special for her, and Marshall says, but if she’s not in the mood… Trina says, no. It’s beautiful. Portia tells her, merry Christmas, and hugs her.

Violet, Finn, Chase and Gregory walk into Finn’s house, and Violet asks if they saw the house with all the angels, lights, and music. She makes a head exploding gesture, and Gregory suggests she find some more appropriate attire for their Christmas celebration. She says, on it, and runs off. Gregory says he knows Finn and Chase are hurting, but that little girl expects a merry Christmas, not a grumpy one. Can’t they focus on their blessings for one night, for her sake?

On the phone, Brook says, it’s happening? Thank you so much. You don’t know what this means… Yes, she knows they did her a favor, and she owes them. And they’re definitely going to collect.

At Alexis’s house, gifts are opened. Molly says she got socks for everyone, because you can never have too many, and TJ agrees, saying, he should know; he’s a doctor. Kristina says, you are too… you guys, and Molly thanks her, kissing TJ. They go to get more cider, and Spencer looks at the tree. Alexis asks if he’s okay, and he says he’s great. This is good. This is fun. She says, for a Cassadine, he’s a terrible liar, and he says he has a lot on his mind. She says she has a lot of time, so what’s on his mind? He says, this is probably a stupid question, but is he destined to be just like his father?

Trina says she’s sorry, but Josslyn says she has nothing to be sorry for, and Portia says, Trina is entitled to feel however she feels. There’s no pressure here. Trina says she appreciates that, but she doesn’t want to bring down the holiday, and Marshall says, she couldn’t if she tried. Curtis says, the holidays are about family; the ones we’re born into, and the ones we’ve chosen. And the ones we’re lucky enough to be chosen by. All that matters is them being here for her. Portia says, you know what they’re going to do? They’re going to follow Trina’s lead. So if she wants to do something, she has supplies to decorate ornaments. Trina says, it used to be their tradition, and Portia says, they stopped doing it for a couple of years, but she figured this was the perfect time to bring it back. And if Trina wants to be low-key, that’s absolutely fine too. Just do what makes her heart feel good. Trina says, thanks, but Christmas is even more important during hard times. Yes, she’s sad, and scared, and hurt, but being here with all of them, she knows she’s lucky too. She, Portia, and Curtis have a three-way hug.

Austin asks if he can talk to Maxie. He thinks they should clear the air. No matter what, they should know where they stand before the holidays, right? She asks where he thinks that is, and he says he doesn’t know where she’s at, but for him, he knows he messed up. He let his insecurities get the best of him, and he did some shady stuff. And the worst of that was to pressure Spinelli. He shouldn’t have done that; he knows Spinelli is important to her. He’s sorry. He thinks he might have driven a wedge between them. She says, the wedge was already there, and she thinks he knows that.

Brook comes into the sitting room, and says she didn’t know they were opening presents tonight. Olivia says, they’re letting the kids open one present, and Ned says he was beginning to think they weren’t going to see her until the show at Rice Plaza tonight. She says she has a couple of minutes before she has to go. Nothing’s more important than family at Christmas, right? Ned says, family is important, but there are other things… Leo asks, where’s Chase? He wants to show Chase his book. Brook says, he’s with family at the moment, and Leo leaves to read his book. Olivia asks if they’ll see Chase before the show, but Brook says, Chase isn’t coming. Not here, not Rice Plaza, nowhere that she is.

Gregory says, look at them, all together at Christmas. There was a time he never thought he’d spend the holiday with his sons, much less his beautiful granddaughter. They’ve come so far. Chase says he’s sorry. He’s not really in the holiday spirit. Maybe he should just go. Gregory says, Chase isn’t performing tonight; he’s free to spend time with his family. Chase says, Brook completely screwed him over, and Finn says he’s sorry. Gregory says, what Brook did was wrong… and Chase says, it was beyond wrong. She cost him his badge when she took it upon herself to make decisions about his life. The more he thinks about it, the more he’s glad that he backed out of the Gingerbread Jam. Brook can deal with the fallout. Gregory says he gets it. This is about revenge.

Michael tells Wiley that he and Willow have something to tell him, and asks Willow if she wants to do the telling. She says, they found out the baby in mommy’s tummy is a girl. He’s going to have a little sister. Michael asks how that sounds, and Wiley says he can’t wait.

Drew says he’s really glad Carly is here, and she says, her too. Donna’s with Sonny, and Avery is with her mother. Joss is with Trina, and she’d be going crazy if she was sitting in the house by herself. Not to mention she gets bonus time with Wiley. And she gets holiday bonus time with him, which is really, really nice. She wonders if Willow’s okay; she’s really pale. She seems to be having a really hard time with this pregnancy. Drew says, unfortunately, he thinks finding out that her birth mother was dead really added on the stress, but now that they know that Denise was lying, he’s not going to stop until he finds Willow’s birth parents, or at least find out what happened to them. She says, he’s a man with a mission, and he says, they have to tell her there’s hope her family’s out there. She says she thinks that would be a really big mistake, and he asks, why? She says she thinks he should wait until he has all the facts before he gives Willow more bad news. He says, like the suspicion Harmony stole Willow from her birth parents? and she says, let Willow enjoy Christmas before he puts all that on her.

Wiley asks if his sister will be here next Christmas, and Michael says, she sure will. Wiley asks if they’ll open presents together, and Michael says, she’ll have presents, but she’ll be too small to open them herself. Wiley says, then you, me, and mommy will help open them, right mommy? and Willow says, they sure will. She tells them that she’ll be right back, and leaves.

Ned says he’s sorry to hear Brook and Chase split up, and Olivia says, they were worried something like this might happen. Brook says, worried, but hardly surprised? Ned says, and Chase bailed on the performance tonight? and Brook says, Chase was only performing because they were together. Go ahead. Tell her how selfish and stupid, and she deserved what she got. Ned says he’s so sorry, and hugs her. Olivia says, they know how important Chase was to her. If anyone understands what she’s going through, it’s them. Brook says, they’re not going to lecture her? and Ned says, it’s Christmas Eve. No lecture today. Maybe on New Year’s.

Dante looks at his phone, and Sam says, no phones tonight. Tonight, Dante is all hers. Anything important? He says, no. He was just going to check on Cody; make sure he’s not alone. She says, he could invite Cody to the Gingerbread Jam, and he says he doesn’t know if he told her lately how incredible she is. She says, a couple times, when his phone dings. He says he’s got to go, and she says, was it work? It’s not another attack. He says, nothing like that. He’ll be right back. He promises.

Spencer says he shouldn’t have brought it up on Christmas, but Alexis says, it’s the perfect holiday to maximize family disfunction. What’s going on with his dad? Spence says he found out some things about him. He’s embarrassed and ashamed that it makes him look bad by association. Does that make sense? She says, sadly, it does, and he says he wants to find a life outside of his family, to stay away from his father, and even Uncle Victor, but he can’t find a permanent way out. He needs her to tell him how to escape his own family, but she says, they can’t.

Curtis suggests Marshall and Portia take a break, and Portia says, in a minute. She wants to make everything perfect for Trina. Marshall says, he’s helping; doctor’s orders. Curtis says he’s sure Trina will appreciate the effort, but what he has to tell them can’t wait.

Trina says, Josslyn doesn’t have to stay. The traffic is going to be crazy with the Gingerbread Jam at Rice Plaza. Josslyn says she’ll take the back roads, and tells Trina, stop putting everybody else first. She’s here as long as Trina needs her. Trina says she was supposed to be with Rory’s family tonight. She told him she’d go before… She was on her way to tell Rory that she didn’t love him. All because she can’t shake her feelings for Spencer. He might have broken up with her, but she’ll never know. Rory is gone, and he’d still be here if he’d never met her. She starts to cry.

Curtis says, they’re all working hard to help Trina, and she’s their number one priority. But it’s his and Portia’s first Christmas as an engaged couple in their home. It’s his and Marshall’s first Christmas in over 30 years, since Marshall came back into his life. And even after everything that’s been going on, he thinks these things need to be celebrated. He gives a gift to Portia, and one to Marshall, and says, open them. They tear open the paper, and Portia says, it’s like self-care in a box, and thanks Curtis. Marshall opens a set of record albums, and says, this is like a time machine. He thanks Curtis, and they hug.

Josslyn asks, in what universe is Trina even remotely responsible for Rory’s death? He was investigating a crime. Trina says, this crime, and Josslyn says, the killer happened to be there. Trina says, exactly. If it wasn’t for her, Rory wouldn’t have been in the wrong place at the wrong time. Josslyn says, okay. It’s time for some tough love. What happened to Rory was a tragedy, and Trina is entitled to feel however she wants about that, but not responsible. The only person responsible is the monster who killed Rory. Trina says, right, and Josslyn says she knows Trina is saying it, but doesn’t think Trina means it. It’s human nature that when things get really, really bad, we try to make sense of them, and we’re willing to accept answers from anywhere, even if it means believing the worst about ourselves. Trina says, and Josslyn thinks that’s what she’s doing? Josslyn says, it is what she’s doing. Blaming herself is only going to hold her back. Rory wouldn’t want that for her. Rory would want her to keep moving forward. She puts her arms around Trina, and holds her.

Maxie says she appreciates Austin owning what he did. It proves he can still be a good man, which is why she was drawn to him in the first place. He says, helping a woman deliver a baby when she’s being chased be a crazy nurse would make anyone look like a hero, and she says, that’s where the root of their problem is. When she met him, she was trying to save her own life, and her daughter’s life, and trying to survive the most traumatic relationship she’s ever been in. And there Austin was, like a guardian angel. They went through something huge together, and became really important to each other really fast; so fast, she thinks lines were blurred. Trauma bonding is a real thing and fate  brought them together, but… He says, they’re not meant to be.

Drew tells Carly that they need to let Willow know there’s still a chance her birth parents could be out there. She needs some hope. Carly says, it’s not hopeful to hear you were taken from your family. When you’re pregnant, your hormones just compound everything, and that’s what’s going on with Willow. There’s nothing to worry about. Um… she brought up that Willow wasn’t looking too good.

Brook tells Ned and Olivia that she just got so caught up in what she wanted, she convinced herself that’s what Chase wanted too. Now Chase is gone, and she has to live with it. Ned asks what she’s going to do about the show tonight. She’ll be in breach of contract if she doesn’t show up with an act. She says, she’ll just have to get a different act… Ned could take Chase’s place. Olivia laughs.

Violet drapes a candy cane striped scarf around Finn’s neck, and says, it’s his color. He says he’ll take her word for it, and she asks if they can do the advent calendar. He says, you bet, and they sit in front of the calendar on the coffee table. She asks why there isn’t anything for Christmas Day, and he says, that’s because Santa brings her candy for her stocking, but she says she knows Finn does that. Santa only brings presents. He says, she’s getting way too smart for him.

Gregory says he’s not trying to excuse what Brook did; Chase has every right to be angry. Brook made a mistake, one that cost Chase dearly, but just because Brook made a mistake doesn’t mean Chase can’t. Chase asks what he’s talking about, and Gregory says, his badge was taken away, not his moral compass. There’s still a wrong he has to make right – tonight. Dante knocks at the door, and says he’s sorry to interrupt, but he has some news he doesn’t think can wait.

Brook says, who needs Chase when she has Eddie Maine? but Ned says, what Linc and Blaze signed up for, and what the Rice Plaza bookers agreed to was a performance by two up and comers. She can’t change the terms at the last minute. Brook says, it’s an emergency, but he says, they won’t see it that way. If there’s no way she can get Chase to do this, she needs to be honest with the people she made an agreement with. Brook says, and tell them she can’t deliver, and Ned says, unfortunately, dare he say it – Olivia says, please don’t – she has to face the music.

Drew says he doesn’t feel good keeping this from Willow, but Carly says, all they have is a theory, an extremely disturbing one at that. He says, she’s right… he thinks, and she says she’ll take that.

Willow comes back, and Michael asks if she’s okay. She says, yeah. She’s sorry for getting so… He says, they’re going to spend many and more Christmases together, and he, Willow, and Wiley have a three-way hug.

Violet says she’s taking the calendar to her room, and runs out. Gregory says, Finn is doing a good job of hiding his pain from Violet, and Finn says he wasn’t so sure after what Gregory told him the other day. Gregory says, Finn’s performance has improved. He’s not trying to pry. He knows there are elements of Finn’s break-up he doesn’t want to discuss, but Violet loves her Aunt Elizabeth. Finn says he knows, and no matter what happens between them, Elizabeth will be a part of Violet’s life. Gregory says he’s proud of Finn not leaning into despair when it would be so easy to, and Finn says he’s had a lot of practice. He’s learned his lesson this time. He’s not cut out for love and relationships. As much as he tries, some tragedy always follows him everywhere. Gregory says he knows Finn has experienced his share of darkness; they had their share of darkness as a family as well. But it would be a mistake to ignore all the joy they’ve had too. Finn asks if this is the part of the conversation where Gregory says, everything happens for reason, and Gregory says he wouldn’t dream of being so cliché, but the journey Finn has been on, put him on the path that brought Violet into his life. Would he change that? Finn says, of course (🍷) not; not for a minute. Gregory says, so maybe don’t throw in the towel yet.

Dante says, the CCRB is going to revisit Chase’s reinstatement. They’re going to take another look at his case at the next meeting in the spring. Chase says, that’s fantastic, but it was supposed to be a done deal, and Dante says, it was, but Brook managed to get them her letter. Chase says he thought it was too late for that, and Dante says, it was. He has no idea what happened; maybe she wore them down. Chase says, Brook has that effect on people, and thanks Dante for letting him know. Dante shakes his hand, and says, merry Christmas, partner. He leaves, and Chase goes back inside. Finn asks what Dante wanted, and Chase says, to deliver a Christmas miracle.

Austin says, Maxie means a lot to him. He wishes things were different, but they’re just not. So he thinks maybe they should just call it. She says she is grateful for him. Not just because he brought Bailey Lou into this world, but for the time they spent together, even though it didn’t work out. He says, him too, and they hug. He tells her, merry Christmas. He hopes those kids have a great holiday. Give little Bailey a hug for him. She says, of course (🍷), and he leaves.

Trina thanks Josslyn for being the best, and Josslyn says, call if she needs anything. Trina says, she will, and Josslyn leaves. Portia asks how Trina is feeling, and Trina says she’s okay. There’s something she wants to do, and she needs Portia’s help.

Marshall gives Curtis a gift, and says, Curtis didn’t think he’d be left out. Curtis says, he figured he’d have to wait until morning, and Marshall says, that was the plan, but Curtis inspired him. Curtis opens the gift, and Marshall says, it was their first Christmas together; Curtis’s mama, him, Tommy, and that blur is his Aunt Stella. She set the timer too fast. They all thought it was funny, so that’s their favorite. And that little boy there is Curtis. He can’t tell Curtis how grateful he is for this second chance to make up for all those holidays he missed spending with him.

Spencer tells Alexis, he doesn’t understand. She, Kristina, Molly, and Sam all have lives. They’re not… They don’t get drawn in by their family. They’re not dependent on them. They don’t get sucked into the drama, and the scheming, and the treachery. Alexis says, they’re still connected to them. She fully expected Victor to walk through that door, and refer to this gathering as if it were some little soiree, while he’s lecturing them about family. Spencer can’t escape being a Cassadine, but he can survive it. He asks, how? and she says, she and the girls have their own lives because she insisted on that; they insisted on that. That wasn’t easy. It just looks easy on nights like this. Victor has a special interest in Spencer, and she’s advising him to be very cautious about that. If Spencer has questions he can’t answer, ask her instead. Because this band of psychopathic murdering megalomaniacs are theirs. They’re their family, and always will be. He says, so basically, he’s doomed with the brontosaurus in the tarpit, and she says, this place he lives in is always going to take up space in his head. The key is to just accept that, and if you do that, it’s easier to forge your own path. He asks if that’s how she’s always able to rise above the insanity that’s their family, because that’s all he wants to do. She tells him, remember, genetics don’t dictate your actions. He’s his own person. He can never not be a Cassadine, but he can ground himself in other things. He says, such as? and she says he has to find out what makes him feel alive; him, Spencer, not Spencer Cassadine. Does that make sense? He says he’s not sure. He wants it to. She says, find out what makes him happy. Figure out what that is, then hang on to that, and let it be his guide. She promises this won’t last forever. At some point he’ll be able to ignore their attempts to pull him in, and follow his own heart.

Linc (I assume; it’s a different actor) approaches Brook at Rice Plaza, and says he’s been looking everywhere for her. Where’s his opening act? Brook says, about that… when Maxie runs over, and hugs her. Linc gets distracted by some set pieces, and Maxie asks, where’s Chase? Brook says, Chase isn’t coming, and Maxie says she’s sorry. Is there something she can do to help? Brook says, no, but thanks her anyway, and Maxie says she’s going to go find her kids and her mom. Break a leg. She hugs Brook again, and leaves. Linc says, where is he? and Brook says she’s so sorry. She knows this is disappointing, but Blaze is going to have to perform solo. Linc says, no, and Brook says, Chase isn’t coming. She doesn’t see any other option. He says, Blaze’s manager has been screaming at him all afternoon. A solo performance is a non-starter. Brook needs to fix this – now.  

Sam says, Molly’s caramel apple pie is to die for. She legitimately made this herself? Molly says she did, and thanks Sam. She says, baking has become a sort of meditation for her these days. Kristina says, she, too, has begun to realize there’s more to life than work. She’s organizing a charity clothing drive to help struggling LGBTQ+ youth. She realized helping people gives her life purpose, and she never would have realized that if she hadn’t had a job that allowed her the time to explore it. Spencer says, seems like they all found things that make them feel alive, and Molly says, that’s one way of putting it. Sam says she guesses they’re all lucky that way, and Spencer tells them, merry Christmas. He has to be going. Alexis asks if he’s okay, and Molly asks if it’s something Kristina said. He laughs, and says, it was actually what all of them said. He thanks Alexis, says, he realized there’s somewhere he has to be, and leaves.

Portia and Trina are concentrating on something, and Curtis brings Marshall some coffee. Marshall says, look at those two. Even though they know better, you would think nothing’s wrong with the world. There truly is peace on earth. Curtis says, they are beautiful, and Marshall says, this whole evening. He gets to spend Christmas with his family – that’s a gift. Curtis says, merry Christmas, dad, Marshall says, merry Christmas, and they clink cups.

We see a Rory tribute ornament, and Portia tells Trina, this was such a lovely idea, so thoughtful. Trina says, Rory holds a special place in her heart, and it’s important for her to keep his memory alive, even as she moves forward. It just needs one final touch. She puts a soda can ring over the hook, and says, she knows it’s corny, but the day she and Rory met, the police had been questioning her for a while, and he brought her a soda. Then when she was exonerated, he brought her another one. And because she’s ridiculous, she saved the tab. Portia says, she’s not ridiculous in any way, shape, or form. You know what that is? That’s perfect.

Carly tells Willow and Michael that she has to go, and tells Wiley to have a merry Christmas. He hugs her, and she says she loves him. Drew says he’ll walk her out, and when they get outside, he kisses her.

Josslyn is driving, and shields her eyes from someone’s brights. She slams on the brakes.

Drew says he’s been dying to do that all night, and Carly says, it’s been difficult keeping her hands off him. He says, before she goes, he got her a present, and hands her a small box. She opens it, and takes out a keyring from Jacksonville, with a key attached. He says, hopefully, it will remind her of their time together there, and she says, that she could never forget. She asks what the key is for, and he says, she’ll find out. He leans in for another kiss, but she says, merry Christmas, and walks off.

At Rice Plaza, Brook turns to see Chase walking toward her, wearing his leather jacket.

Gregory and Violet bring mugs into the living room, and Violet asks when she’ll be able to make hot cocoa by herself. Gregory says, far too soon, and Finn joins them on the sofa. Finn says, all right. They have their hot cocoa. Is anybody ready for a story? Violet asks if grandpa can read it, and Finn hands the book to him. Gregory says he’d be honored, and Violet sits in Finn’s lap. Gregory begins to read… ‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse…

Alexis says, so that charity work Kristina is doing… Kristina says she doesn’t want to argue with Alexis on Christmas Eve, but Alexis says, then Santa came early for Kristina, because she was going to say she loves that Kristina is doing something she loves. Alexis is so proud of her.

Sam lets Dante in, and says, welcome home. He says, there’s no place he’d rather be, and they hug.

Alexis and Kristina hug, and TJ and Molly kiss

There’s a knock at the door, and Trina answers it. Spencer says, merry Christmas.

Tomorrow, Brook asks Chase if they can get past this; Spencer tells Trina, if the police won’t do it, he will; and Mac says, they have a lead on Rory’s murderer.

👼🏾 Singing With the Angels…

She will be missed. I still can’t believe it. Watching GH today made me want to cry, knowing she’ll no longer be bossing people around.

GENERAL HOSPITAL Stars Remember Sonya Eddy

🧓🏻 In Happier News…

I’ll bet he’s an amazing grandpa.

GH’s Maurice Benard is Going to Be a Grandpa Again!

👠 They’re Coming…

I wonder who Teresa will throw something at this season.

https://ew.com/tv/the-real-housewives-of-new-jersey-season-13-trailer/

The Real Housewives Of New Jersey Season 13 Trailer Is Finally Here

🛥 Deck Disasters…

Captain Lee will turn this boat around.

Worst Below Deck Mishaps

🍰 Bakers At Battle…

I am so addicted to this show. Those who can’t do, watch it on TV.

https://www.foodnetwork.com/shows/holiday-wars

🐕 All About That Bowl…

It’s never too early to talk about the Bowl.

https://www.chiff.com/articles/puppy-bowl.htm

✨ Westward Leading, Still Proceeding…

Come back for more of the same tomorrow. If nothing else, I’m consistent. Until then, stay safe, stay believing it’s the thought that counts, and stay remembering, genetics don’t dictate your actions. You’re your own person.