Tag Archives: Adrian Achondo

March 27, 2026 – GH Weekdays, Josslyn Asks Britt To Kill Cullum, Soap Suds, This Week In Reality, Weekend Watching, Where Are They, Fashionable Pets (!), Just Under 9 Quotes & Day

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What I Watched Today

(Weekday bites, Friday’s whole GH enchilada & media minutiae)

General Hospital

🍕 Weekday Slices…                                                                          

Monday:

Valentin set up a romantic meal in Sonny’s old kitchen for him and the moss bowl 🎍. Carly walked in and he said, hungry?

Martin went to see Laura in her office where she was working late. She missed Doc and Ace, but thought Dublin was a good opportunity. Martin said he was leaving Port Charles too.

Tracy saw Brook at the hospital and said she thought Brook was getting overinvolved with the baby. Brook said she and Chase were petitioning to be foster parents.

At the pier, Britt thanked Lucas, as Rocco listened in. She said Lucas and Marco had saved her life. She was leaving with Jason today.

Jack asked if Nathan knew where his sister was. She was a material witness to a WSB investigation in Croatia, and he had follow-up questions.

Dante said the order was coming from Cullum, but Jason said he wasn’t going anywhere. Dante said it wasn’t a request.

Martin told Laura that he’d been offered a lucrative case in Reno and could be gone indefinitely. He offered to turn it down, but Laura said it wasn’t necessary. He felt like he was abandoning her and said Tracy would do what she could to block the zoning change. Laura said she’d be just fine and she’d be there when he got back.

Valentin said, since Donna was with Sonny, he’d made Carly dinner. He’d kept an eye open for anyone coming. He was reckless, not stupid. She tasted his coq au vin, and said it was like he was trying to make her life harder. He asked if she was mad about dinner or them sleeping together, and she said, both.

Nathan said he wouldn’t be looking for Britt if he knew where she was. All he knew was that it was her day off. Jack looked around, and Nathan said he had no right snooping. Jack asked if he should snoop through Nathan’s life. He’d been presumed dead for seven years, yet here he was, alive. Nathan said no one wanted to know what happened more than he did, but Jack thought Dante had been premature in giving Nathan his job back. He’d done some digging and found nothing. Somebody went through a lot of trouble covering Nathan’s tracks, and he was either the unknown beneficiary of someone else’s illegal activities or up to his neck in it.

Dante told Jason that no one had to know. He wouldn’t even use the cuffs. Alexis said she’d call Diane, and Dante asked if Jason was armed. Jason sighed and handed over his gun, when Danny came out and wondered what was going on.

Britt said even if she came back, she wouldn’t be working at GH after disappearing with no notice twice, and Lucas said it was the hospital’s loss. She asked if he was going back to Spoon Island. It wouldn’t take long for Sidwell and Cullum to connect the dots. He said he and Marco had a room at the MetroCourt, and she said they should watch their backs. He said Marco’s father would be angry, but wouldn’t hurt his son, and Britt said Sidwell wasn’t the only person he should be worried about.  

Marco lay bleeding as Cullum cleaned the knife and saw the message on Marco’s phone that Lucas was meeting Britt at Pier 55. He left.

Tracy said it was a terrible idea, and Brook would be devastated when she had to give Phoebe up. Brook said giving the baby a safe, stable, albeit temporary home would be worth it, and Tracy asked, why put herself through it? Brook said Phoebe needed her. Babies were meant to be held, sung to, and covered with kisses. Tracy said they had nurses and trained volunteers for that, and Brook said, when they had time. Tracy said there were trained foster parents who could take Phoebe, but Brook said they weren’t her.

Carly said her and Valentin sleeping together was one more complication. Then Jason walked in. Valentin said they wouldn’t sleep together again, so no complication. He’d take his food and eat in the attic. She said, wait. He’d gone to all this trouble, and it was really good. He should stay. He said it seemed risky, but she said, please stay.

Sidwell showed up at Laura’s office and said he’d seen her brother was off to Reno. She asked how he knew, and he said because Martin had become too suspicious, so he thought he’d send him on an errand. Laura said she’d been backing public works that only benefitted Sidwell, and he said he thought the words she was looking for were thank you. She didn’t want Martin to find out she was working for him. She asked if he was threatening to have her brother killed and said if he was worried about being exposed, the person who should be reined in was him.

Jack asked if Nathan didn’t think it was strange that the door was unlocked and there was a lot missing. Nathan looked in some drawers and said Britt’s clothes were missing… and her luggage. Jack said it appeared his sister had disappeared – again.

Lucas said he’d made Marco realize he was in too deep with his dad, but if not for Britt, Marco would have kept lying and they would have ultimately drifted apart. Britt said he was welcome, and he said he’d confronted Marco, Marco did the right thing, and they were stronger than ever. She said the whole horrible mess actually led them to find their person. They both finally had someone they could count on. He asked if Jason wasn’t meeting her, and she said Jason thought they’d be safest by boat. Lucas wondered if he shouldn’t be there already. 

Danny asked what was wrong, and Jason handed over his gun. He told Danny to go back in, and Alexis said she’d call Diane, taking Danny by the hand. Jason head-butted Dante and told Danny not to follow him. He said he loved Danny and took off.

Alexis asked if Dante was all right, and Dante said he was fine. He called the station and asked for an APB to be put out on Jason Morgan immediately for resisting arrest and assaulting an officer. He’d left the Port Charles high school parking lot, and was armed and dangerous. Approach with caution. Danny said if they thought Jason had a gun, they’d shoot him.

Brook told Tracy that she and Chase had found Delilah and had been there when the baby was born, but Tracy said that didn’t mean she was responsible. Brook said it made her care. She felt a connection to Phoebe. Tracy said Phoebe had a connection to her family. Did Brook hope no one would show up? Brook said, of course (🍷) not, but until they were found, Phoebe needed foster parents, and she and Chase wanted to step in. Tracy said she knew Brook and Chase were having difficulties and asked if she was using the baby as a way to get past them.

Sidwell said Laura didn’t want the photos with Dalton’s dead body to surface, and she suggested he back off. The more she acted on his orders, someone would figure out that he was pulling the strings. He said she was doing a marvelous job. No one had a clue. Between her and Willow, he was well represented. She asked what he’d done to Willow, and he said Willow had learned a valuable lesson that she was still struggling with. It was easier to cooperate with him than drag her heels against him. He didn’t enjoy coercing her. She said, yet he did it with ease and skill, and he asked how Doc and Ace were. He knew where they were in Ireland.  

Lucas said, even crazier than them finding their people, he thought he might miss Britt… a little and sporadically. She told him not to get mushy. Go save lives. Be happy. He deserved it. He said, so did she. He hoped to see her again someday. She said her too… but no hugging. She thanked him again and Lucas left. Rocco peeked around the corner, and Cullum arrived. He said Britt was about to make a deadly mistake.

Carly said she couldn’t believe Valentin went undercover as a sous chef, and he said, it was the summer of 1991. The chef was always furious and threw things. Thank God for his WSB training. She said his time wasn’t wasted. The food was incredible. He asked, how’s the company? and she said she’d had worse. He said Jason wasn’t known for his conversation, and she said Jason said when he meant. Valentin said, and meant what he said. He could appreciate that. She asked what the dinner was really about, and he said it was lonely in the attic. She was easier on the eyes and more articulate than his fellow inmates at Steinmauer, and she didn’t smell like industrial soap. She said she enjoyed his company. If the stakes weren’t life and death, she’d enjoy having him as an upstairs neighbor. There had been progress. The dinner at Windymere was tomorrow. He said he could access the tunnel, while she kept Sidwell busy, and she said she hated using her brother, but him being on Spoon Island was a good reason to visit. They heard someone approaching the house.

Tracy said Brook and Chase had gotten together over Bailey Lou. It would keep them busy and give them a common focus, but it wouldn’t fix their problems. Brook said they had no problems… Okay. Yes. Chase’s belief in Willow and the lengths he was willing to go to help her were difficult, but it was all in the past. It was insulting to think she’d use a child to make herself feel better. Tracy said Brook was strong, but had a human heart. It would break when Phoebe’s family showed up. Brook said her family would be there to help her pick up the pieces.

Nathan asked, what happened? and Dante told Chase to take witness statements. Nathan asked if Dante was all right, and Dante said they had to find Jason. He had to be desperate. Usually he showed passive resistance, but something was going down at the WSB for them to issue a warrant. Nathan said he’d just been with Jack and when he’d told Jack what happened, he acted like it was new information. Dante told him that they couldn’t take what Jack said at face value.

Laura told Sidwell to put himself in her position. He had a son he loved. There was only so much she could do. Sidwell said she was nowhere near her limit. The people of Port Charles adored her. She said, not for long, and he said she’d sold them shifts in position before. Continue to do that and she’d never lose sleep over anyone she loved.

Lucas came into Sonny’s old kitchen, and asked if Carly was having a dinner party for one. She said she was trying to improve her skills in the kitchen, and he said he had good news. She’d be happy to hear that he’d spent his last night at Windymere. He and Marco were moving out.  

Chase said he’d gotten Alexis and Danny’s statements, but there wasn’t much there. Dante said, call Jack and get him down there, and Chase left. Dante said he was getting the damn runaround. The warrant had been called in by Cullum. Nathan said he’d join the search and left.

Cullum said Britt had something that belonged to him. Give him the vials. He drew his gun and told her not to make it any more unpleasant. She said the vials were in her bag and Cullum tossed it to her. He held out his hand, and she gave him the vials. He threw them down and stepped on them. He said he was taking her in for possible ties to a terrorist organization and faking her death, but she said he was going to lock her up until the prototype was finished. Rocco continued to listen, and Cullum cocked his gun. Rocco made a noise and it distracted Cullum. Britt hit him with her bag and he dropped the gun, but grabbed her.

Laura said Tracy was up in arms about the ordinance and would fight tooth and nail, but Sidwell said he had every confidence she could handle it. Laura said he didn’t see it. He was making high profile moves. He said that aspect of his work would be over soon, and she said, then what? He’d leave? he laughed and said, heavens no. He loved the city and he and son had put roots there. He expected Marco would start a family soon and he was looking forward to many happy years in Port Charles.

Lucas said he knew Carly wanted him out. He’d confronted Marco about his involvement in his dad’s dealings and now he was ready to go. Marco said he’d messed up and wanted to put distance between himself and his father. She said Marco was lucky to have Lucas to save him from his father’s bad influence, but Lucas said they were saving each other. He’d told Marco that he loved him. Marco had said it before, but he hadn’t said it back. This time he did. She said she was happy for him, and they hugged.

Alexis asked if she and Danny were free to go, and Dante said, yeah. He knew Danny was worried about his dad, but he just wanted to bring Jason in. Danny and Alexis left, and Jack arrived. He said he didn’t like being summoned, and Dante asked what the WSB wanted with Jason, but Jack said he wasn’t briefed on it.  

Britt yelled for help, struggling with Cullum. She bit his hand and pushed him away, but he tripped her and she fell. He said she was far more trouble than she was worth, when Jason jumped him from behind.

Tracy said Brook’s mind was made up and Brook had her full support, and Brook thanked her. They hugged and Tracy said Brook knew her concern was from love. She couldn’t bear the thought of Brook being hurt. Where was Phoebe? Brook asked if Tracy wanted to meet her, and Tracy said if Phoebe was going to be living in her house, she needed to know what the baby looked like. Lead the way.  

Sidwell said he set the terms, and it would behoove Laura to remember that, and she said if someone threatened Marco, would he be likely to cooperate or fight back with everything he had? He said that was a good question, but he thought he had enough intelligence to assess the situation and see where his advantage lay. He believed she did as well. He said, goodnight, and left.

Carly told Lucas to consider their stay at the MetroCourt her gift for moving out and relieving he of worry. What was next? Was Marco cutting his father out of his life for good? Lucas flashed back to Marco saying that his father would protect him, and Lucas said he wasn’t sure, but moving out would put distance between them. Carly said it was hard, and he said, of course (🍷), but knew it was for the better. Carly said, of course (🍷). Marco got him. Lucas said they were going to be so happy together. Marco chose him.

Marco struggled to get up, but fell back down.

Outside her office, Alexis said she’d check with the WSB, but Danny wanted to go to the police station. They’d know sooner if Jason was found. He was begging her. Please.

Dante said the WSB had triggered something, and whatever it was, it was escalating everything. He needed information to keep everyone safe and wanted to talk to Jack. Jack said he was as in the dark as Dante. He didn’t have any answers. Dante said they had to find Jason before the WSB did.  

Jason fought with Cullum and the struggled over the gun. Rocco saw the gun slide his way as the fight continued. Cullum fell and Jason got him in a headlock, but Cullum threw Jason to the ground. He stood over Jason, snapping open an expandable baton, and was about to whack him, when Rocco shot him in the back. Go Rocco!

Tuesday:

(Side note: I’m loving the new editing technique of blending one scene into another.)

We revisited Jason struggling with Cullum and Rocco shooting him. Nathan came on the scene and asked Jason, what’s the play?

Alexis went to her office with Danny to get a copy of the WSB warrant. When they went in, they saw Marco on the floor, bleeding profusely.

Jason took the gun and asked if anyone knew Rocco was there, and Rocco shook his head. Jason checked Britt and said she had a pulse. He’d take care of her. He told Nathan to get Rocco out of there. When they left, he put his own prints on the gun and shot it over the water.

Alexis told Danny to call 911, and he gave her his jacket to help stop the bleeding. He made the call, said there was a lot of blood, and told them to hurry. Alexis told Marco to stay with her. He’d be okay. Marco passed out.

Carly told Valentin that she’d had to trash dinner because of Lucas. Jack could have been Lucas and they would have been screwed. He said just because she regretted having sex with him didn’t mean she should starve him.

Lucas called ahead for dinner room service at the MetroCourt, and Elizabeth was thrilled to hear he and Marco were moving out of Windymere. He said Marco was the one.

Jason roused Britt. He told her to tell the cops that he shot Cullum and she saw him do it. Dante arrived and said, back away from her.

Carly told Valentin, that wasn’t what it was about. She felt guilty that she’d brought jack into her life. She’d pushed the boundaries by dating a spy and Jack had access to Josslyn because of her. Now Josslyn was trapped in the WSB. Valentin wondered if she thought he and Jack were the same.

Chase showed up at Alexis’s office and said the paramedics were close. They turned Marco on his side.

Dante cuffed Jason and told an officer to call for paramedics. He asked Britt who shot Cullum, but she was dazed. He told the officer to make sure she was examined at GH and took Jason away.

Nathan brought Rocco home and asked if anyone had seen him or knew he was going there. Rocco was silent, and Nathan said all he wanted to do was help. Lulu came out and Rocco hugged her.

She asked how Rocco got hurt, but Nathan wanted Rocco to answer his question. Rocco said, no, just Jason, and Lulu said she wanted her questions answered. Nathan asked if Lulu was alone and how long she’d been by herself, and she said, a few hours. He said, if anyone asked, Rocco had been with her. Don’t even tell Dante. She promised, but wanted an explanation, and Nathan said, a WSB agent was shot and Rocco was involved. Do exactly as he asked and no one would have to know.

Carly gave Valentin some donuts, but he wanted his question answered, and Carly said he and Jack were trained spies. They were manipulators and users. He asked how he was using her, and she said making her dinner was a manipulation, like how Jack played cars with Josslyn on Christmas Eve. Every sweet gesture was an ulterior motive. He said he’d never recruit Josslyn. Because he had a daughter of his own, he’d never jeopardize hers. She asked if she was supposed to just take his word.

Dante brought Jason in and told an officer to take the gun to ballistics and have the prints run. He also wanted a paramedic for Jason’s hand. He told Jason that he was under arrest and gave him his rights.

At the hospital, Britt flashed back to Jason saying they were going to disappear, Lucas bringing her meds to the pier, and Cullum showing up and smashing her meds. She remembered Jason saying, tell them he shot Cullum. Portia came in, but Britt was quiet.

Elizabeth told Lucas that Ross Cullum had been brought in from Pier 55 and was being prepped for surgery. He had a possible spinal cord injury. Lucas said he was on his way.

The paramedics showed up, and Alexis told them that Marco had lost consciousness. As they prepped Marco, in the hallway, Danny called someone to come and pick him up.

In the interrogation room, Dante said it wasn’t Jason’s usual M.O. He was usually more careful, but he’d resisted arrest, assaulted a Police Commissioner, and on top of it, shot a WSB agent in the back.

Lulu asked how she could help without knowing what was going on, and Nathan asked if she trusted him. She said, yes, and he said then trust he’d fill her in on everything. It would be fine for now, but make sure Rocco didn’t talk to anyone. He needed to get ahead of things at the station. She said she understood, and he said Dante could never know. It would put him in an impossible position. She thanked him for getting Rocco home, and Rocco said, is he dead? Nathan said he didn’t know, but was going to find out. Whatever happened, Rocco was never there. He left, and Lulu looked at Rocco’s hand.

A paramedic bandaged Jason’s hand and left. Dante asked, what gives? Usually Jason came with him and called Diane. He didn’t resist arrest, let alone head-butt him. It wasn’t adding up and Jason needed to fill in some blanks.

Portia said Britt hit her head pretty bad. How long was she out? Britt said, a few minutes, and Portia said she’d order a CT scan. They needed to rule out a concussion or brain bleed. Did Britt remember anything about how she got hurt?

Carly said she’d enlisted Valentin’s help to save her daughter and handed him a manual on how to manipulate her. He asked what he’d done that made him less than a partner. He’d followed all of her instructions, but obviously offended her by making dinner if she said he was no better than Jack. She said she was mostly mad at herself. She had hideous judgement. Her daughter had joined the WSB because of her relationship with Sonny. Her choices primed Josslyn for that life and she put a target on Josslyn’s back bringing Jack in the picture. Valentin said, now him, and she said, when they’d teamed up, it was a means to an end, and she told herself not to let her guard down. He said, that didn’t happen, and she said, it started that way. Then they spent so much time together. She told herself that she knew the real him. Just like she thought she knew Jack.

Charlotte picked Danny up and asked where they were going.

Lucas checked his phone, then called Marco. He got voicemail and said he’d heard Cullum was shot at Pier 55. He was just there with Britt and was going into surgery, so he wouldn’t be able to talk, but wanted to hear Marco’s voice. Text when he got this. Lucas wanted to know Marco was safe. He loved him.

Alexis asked if Marco would be all right, and a paramedic said they were doing everything they could. Chase asked Alexis to walk him through what happened since he’d last seen her at the high school. Obviously, she’d come here, but did she make any stops? Alexis said, no, and he asked why she went to her office. She said she wanted a copy of the WSB warrant because Danny asked for her help, and Chase asked, what the hell happened? She looked at the blood on the rug and said she wished she knew.

Valentin said Carly did know him better than Jack, but she said she couldn’t trust herself. He said he was the guy who froze his ass off in her shed and had been keeping vigil in her attic. He could have grabbed Charlotte and taken off, but he stayed because he told her that he wouldn’t. Didn’t that mean something to her? She said he could be the greatest guy ever or a lying bastard. She couldn’t tell the difference and that was on her for hearing what she wanted to hear and believing what she wanted to believe. She told herself that she had a good reason to align herself with him, but she got caught up in it. She’d loved going to Switzerland, getting in to see him with a fake ID, and then hiding him in her attic. It was exciting and she’d focused on that instead of the implications for her and her children. He said he thought she’d picked a hell of a time to start questioning her life choices. He had everything on the line. She said so did she. If it went sideways, she’d lose her daughter and go to jail. He said he’d pledged his life to protect her.

Charlotte was surprised that Jason attacked Dante, and Danny said Jason was in serious trouble. He was on the run all alone. She said she understood, and he said he knew she’d get it. That’s why he called her. She said he called her because she had a car, and he said, that too. He knew she’d help, no questions asked. She asked where he wanted her to take him, and he said, Sonny’s. That’s where he was supposed to go if he was in trouble and his dad wasn’t around. She said they weren’t doing that. Going to Sonny’s would only make it worse.

Dante said he could throw Jason in jail and let the DA’s office do what they’d wanted to for years. He wanted an explanation. The night Dante had come back, he’d been shot and left for dead, but Jason saved his life for Sam, Rocco, and Danny. Danny was like his own son and he loved Danny. Danny and Rocco were like brothers, and he guessed that made them some kind of weird dysfunctional family in a way. What happened to Danny and Rocco when Jason was thrown in a prison cell? Talk to him, for the sake of their sons. Jason said he was sorry he hit Dante, and Dante thanked him and said he assumed Jason had a damn good reason. Jason told Dante that he had nothing to say without his attorney present.

Lulu dressed Rocco’s wound and asked if he was hungry, but he stayed quiet.

Alexis looked at the blood, and Chase asked if she wanted to figure out why the WSB issued a warrant. She said, yes, and he asked if that’s when they found Marco. She said, he was on the floor gasping for breath… There was blood everywhere. He asked if she’d seen anyone leaving or in the vicinity, and she said, no. He wondered if she’d asked Marco, and she said, he could barely breathe. How could he talk… No. She didn’t know what happened before they got there. Chase asked if Marco had any recent run-ins with clients or cases that were high-profile or dangerous, and she said, not that she knew of, but look at who his father was. Chase said he was keeping it in mind. So she didn’t believe it was work related? She said Marco had only worked for her a short time. He’s the sweetest man. She looked at the blood again and said she couldn’t imagine why anyone would do that to him.

Marco was wheeled into the hospital and the paramedic said he had multiple stab wounds and massive blood loss. Elizabeth saw it was Marco and said she’d have the OR prepped, but Isaiah said Marco wouldn’t make it and asked for trauma room one, stat.  

Lucas scrubbed up and flashed back to Marco giving him the meds and saying it was only a matter of time before it was discovered they were gone, but there was no reason to assume he stole them. Lucas said he’d pressured Marco into it, but Marco said helping Britt was the right thing to do. It was worth the risk. He was worth the risk. Lucas went to the OR and saw it was Cullum on the table.  

Isaiah said a bunch of medical stuff, and Elizabeth said Marco’s blood pressure was dropping. Isaiah asked for more blood and said, this isn’t over. Not even close. We saw a puddle of Marco’s blood on the floor.  

Lucas worked on Cullum, and said his blood pressure was dropping.  A nurse said he was losing too much blood, but Lucas said he wasn’t dying on their watch.

Britt paced, when Portia came in and said she had good news. The CT scan… Britt said she needed to see Lucas, but Portia said he was in surgery. He was operating on the WSB agent. Britt asked if Portia could get her phone, but Portia said they didn’t have it. Britt said she had to call Marco. It was vital that she speak… What? Portia said, Marco had also been admitted. He was being treated for multiple stab wounds.

Isaiah said Marco’s blood pressure and breathing had stabilized. His vitals were holding. Elizabeth said he did it, and Isaiah said, we did it.

Valentin said Jason warned him that if anything happened to Carly, he would hunt him down. And Jason had never been known to make idle threats. So he had to keep her safe. It was his only chance to be reunited with Charlotte. She didn’t need faith in him. She had faith in Jason. Problem solved. She said she believed he’d get her through this, but not because of Jason. He said she was right about that, and moved closer to her, but then took his donuts and left.

Chase told Alexis that Jason was in custody, and she said, one problem solved. She’d looked everywhere, but Danny was gone.

Danny asked Charlotte why it would make it worse. Sonny would know what to do. She said they knew that and so did the police. They would expect him and Jason to reach out. She knew someone who could help. He said, who? and she said trust her.

At the station, an officer told Nathan that the Commissioner wanted to meet with him in the interrogation room.

Dante asked Jason to give him something to go on. Anything. Jason said he… had nothing to say. Dante said he had to notify the WSB and let them know he’d brought Jason in, and Jason said, do what he needed to do. Nathan came in, and Dante said, just so they were clear, this wasn’t a threat. If Cullum died, Jason would basically never see the light of day again.

Lulu told Rocco that she understood whatever went down tonight was very bad and he couldn’t let it get out, but she was his mom. She could see he was scared and in pain. It was just the two of them and nothing he could say or do would ever change how much she loved him. He always had her support. He nodded, and she said talk to her. Tell her what happened.

Wednesday:

Lulu said she wanted to help. Rocco didn’t have to deal with this on his own. He flashed back to shooting Cullum and said it wasn’t that he didn’t want to tell her. It was a big, jumbled mess in his head. She suggested they start with the easy stuff. Why was he at the pier? He said, because he was following Britt.

Britt asked what Marco’s prognosis was, but Portia didn’t know. Britt asked if she could find out, but Portia said she was more concerned about Britt. She looked like she was on the verge of a panic attack and might need to be sedated. Britt said it wasn’t necessary, and took a deep breath. She said she was fine, but needed an update on Marco and Agent Cullum. Her life depend on it.

Isaiah said, one stab wound down, another to go, but Elizabeth said they’d found another. There were three. Isaiah said, whoever did this was absolutely brutal.

A nurse said Cullum’s blood pressure was dropping, and Lucas said he needed time to remove the bullet. He told Cullum to stay with him.

Alexis called Danny and got voicemail. She said she was really worried. Please call her back. Chase asked if she had any idea where Danny went, and she said, no, but it was a good bet he was trying help his father.

Charlotte banged on Carly’s door, and Carly asked what she and Danny were doing there. Charlotte said she had to see her father. Danny’s dad was in danger, and he was the only one who could help.

Dante said Jason had shot a WSB agent in the back and not just any agent, a high ranking director. It wasn’t like other times. Diane couldn’t pull a magic trick to set him free. Nathan said Dante was right. Jason needed to make his next decision carefully or he’d spend the rest of his life in prison.

Danny said Jason head-butted Dante and took off, but he didn’t follow him, and Charlotte said Jason could be a fugitive, like Valentin. She thought Valentin could help him escape, give him the locations of safe houses and his contacts. Valentin said, the WSB arrested Jason? Did they have any idea why? Danny said, everyone was surprised, when his phone rang. He said it was his grandma. He’d kind of snuck off. Carly said he needed to answer it. Alexis needed to know he was okay. He answered and Alexis asked why he hadn’t called her back. Where was he? Danny said he was with friends. He was sorry for bailing, but he had to get out. He shouldn’t have left without telling her. Alexis said he shouldn’t have, but she understood his impulse. His father had been arrested for allegedly shooting a WSB agent, Director Ross Cullum. She said she’d come and get him, but Danny said if she wanted to help, help his dad. Please. It was what his mom would have wanted. Alexis said, all right. She’d be in touch. Carly asked if Jason had been arrested for assaulting Dante, but Danny said he’d shot a WSB agent.

Dante asked why Jason shot Cullum, but left when Jason didn’t say anything. Turner told Dante it had been a busy night. Sidwell’s son had been stabbed and a WSB agent had been gunned down. Did he think there was a connection? Dante said, possibly. They had a suspect in the shooting. She asked if it was anyone they knew.

Lulu asked why Rocco was following Britt, and he said he’d gone to her place to ask her to mentor him in a shadowing program at GH. She got a text and said it was work related, but he could tell it freaked her out. Lulu wondered if he asked Britt about it, but he said she’d shoved him out the door. It felt weird, like there was something wrong. He waited outside Bobbie’s, when Britt showed up with bags like she was traveling. He followed her to the pier, where she met up with Lucas. Lulu asked if he meant her cousin. She didn’t think they got along. Rocco said he couldn’t hear them, but it sounded friendly. Lucas left and he was about to go, but then he showed up. Lulu said, who? and he said, Agent Cullum.

Sidwell entertained Ava at Windymere, and she told him about tumbling off the turret. He said, most people wouldn’t want to come near the house after that, but she said when something scared her, she ran toward it. He asked if that’s why she spent time with him. Was she drawn to him because he was dangerous? She said she enjoyed a challenge, and he said, what a coincidence. So did he. They kissed.

Isaiah said, one more to go. They were in the home stretch.

Lucas said he needed more suction.

Isaiah thought there must be internal bleeding. Something wasn’t right.

Lucas said, close him up.

Isaiah said the source was a lacerated blood vessel and asked for another clamp. Elizabeth said Marco’s blood pressure was dropping, and Isaiah told Marco, hang in there.

Ava said she hoped Sidwell would have no trouble with Lucy, but he said they’d come to an arrangement. He couldn’t be constrained to one woman. Ava said sharing wasn’t her strong suit, but she was willing to play by his rules – for now. She thought he’d learn that she was more than enough woman for him. He said he admired her confidence. He’d been married and it ended horribly. He’d vowed never to devote himself to one woman again and wasn’t about to change his mind. Ava said she’d told him that she enjoyed a challenge, and he said she was a fascinating woman. She told him, as they say, you ain’t seen nothin’ yet, and they kissed. Chase walked in and said he was sorry to interrupt, but he needed to speak to Sidwell. It was important.  

Nathan said he didn’t know what happened, but Jason had a serious problem.

Turner said if felt sloppy and wondered why Jason stuck around, but Dante said Jason wasn’t talking. She said, of course (🍷), and he told her, if he had to say, it had something to do with Britt Westbourne. When he arrived, Britt was on the ground and had a head injury. Turner asked if he was able to question her, but he said she was out of it, and he insisted she got to GH. She said he needed to get Britt’s statement ASAP.  

Nathan told Jason that he didn’t know if there was a way out. What was he going to do?

Britt flashed back to Jason saying she had to tell the police that he shot Cullum and she saw him do it, and Dante arriving at the pier. Portia came back and said the only update she got on Marco was that they were still working on him, and Britt said, what about Cullum? Portia said he was stable, but critical, and Britt said, he was still alive. Portia asked why she sensed that wasn’t the answer Britt was hoping for.

Dante told Nathan that he needed to get Britt’s statement, and told Turner that Britt’s brother was the only one she’d talk to. Turner said, everything by the book, and Nathan said, of course (🍷). Alexis came in and said she needed to see her client Jason Morgan, and Dante said he was in interrogation. She went in, and Jason asked if Diane sent her. She said, Danny, and Jason asked, how is he? She said, safe, but he had quite an evening. He saw Jason assault Dante, then they walked into her office to find somebody stabbed. Jason said, not Diane, and she said, Marco Rios.  

Lucas told Jack that he was able to remove the bullet and Cullum was in stable, but critical condition. He wouldn’t regain consciousness for a few hours. Jack thanked him for the update and said he’d check in later.  Jack left with his agents, and Lucas called Marco again and left another message – something went wrong with Britt and Jason’s plan and there could be blowback. Call him as soon as he got this. He loved him. He saw Elizabeth and said, that was a wild ride for a second… What’s wrong?  

Sidwell said his staff had been asked not to disturb him, but Chase said he’d insisted. It was an urgent matter that couldn’t wait. Sidwell said, then be quick about it, and Chase said he regretted to inform Sidwell that Marco had been the victim of a stabbing earlier tonight. He was badly hurt and his injuries were severe. The paramedics took him to GH. Sidwell wondered why anyone would want to hurt his son.

Elizabeth suggested she and Lucas go someplace private, but Lucas said, please just tell him. Elizabeth said she was so sorry. Marco was dead.

Valentin asked if they knew who the agent was, and Danny said, Ross Cullum, and Valentin said Cullum was high up, which made it worse. Carly said, there must be extenuating circumstances. Jason would never shoot anyone unless he had to. Valentin agreed, and Danny said they knew his dad. What if the cops didn’t? He couldn’t lose him. Charlotte said, at least he wasn’t on the run. No one was hunting him down or shooting at him. Danny would be able to see him and with any luck, he’d be home soon.

At the hospital, Nathan said he’d like to speak to Britt if she was up for it, and Britt said she was fine, all things considered. Portia said it wasn’t okay, but Nathan said it couldn’t wait. It was police business. Portia said she’d stay and supervise, and reserved the right to stop it if it was too much. Nathan said that was fair and asked if Britt could tell him what happened. How did she get hurt? Britt said there was a struggle at the pier, and he asked if she was involved. She said, yes, and he asked who it was with. She said Agent Cullum was harassing her, and he said he assumed it had something to do with her time in Croatia. She said, yes. She tried to leave, but he wouldn’t let her and she fell and hit her head. She lost consciousness, briefly. He said, Agent Cullum was shot. Did she see who did it?

Rocco told Lulu that Britt tried to walk away, but Cullum pulled a gun and they started to fight. Britt fell and was knocked out. Cullum was going to shoot her, and Jason showed up and tackled him. Jason knocked the gun out of Cullum’s hand, but he pulled out a metal stick thing. Lulu said, he had another weapon, and Rocco flashed back to that. He started to cry, and she said it was okay. He said he had to do something to help Jason, so he picked up the gun and shot him. He shot Agent Cullum. He sobbed and Lulu held him.

Jason asked if Marco was alive, but Alexis said she didn’t know. The paramedics took him away. She’d never seen so much blood. (I dunno about that. She is a Cassadine.) He asked if Danny was okay, and she said he was shaken up, obviously. His kid was good in a crisis. He asked where Danny was now, and she said he was with friends.

Turner said Jason was close to Dante’s father, but Dante said it wouldn’t be a problem. She said, good, because he was a key witness and she wanted an ironclad prosecution. Jack came in with a couple of agents and introduced himself to Turner. He said he was taking Jason into custody, and they were extraditing him immediately.

Elizabeth took Lucas to Marco’s body, and Lucas asked when Marco as brought in. She said, not long after he went into the OR. He was found in his office with multiple stab wounds to his chest and abdominal area. They did everything they could, but he’d just lost too much blood. Lucas said, Elizabeth was with him. Good. She said she was so sorry, and he asked if he could be alone with Marco. She said, of course (🍷). Take all the time he needed.

Lulu said she couldn’t imagine how traumatic it had been to shoot another human being, and Rocco said, he was going to shoot Jason. She said she knew he was protecting two people he cared about – Jason and Britt – and he said he didn’t think about it. He grabbed the gun and knows he pulled the trigger, but didn’t remember doing it. She asked if that’s how he hurt his hand, and he said he’d never fired a gun before. She said, he shot Agent Cullum. Then what happened? He said everything was sort of a blur. Nathan showed up, and Jason took the gun and told Nathan to get him out. Lulu said, and Britt? and he said she was still unconscious, but breathing. Lulu said she was sure Britt was fine. He told Nathan that no one saw him, but was he sure? Not Cullum or Britt? He said he had no idea. This is bad, isn’t it? She said Cullum being a WSB agent made it trickier. That was why no one could know he was there. Promise not to tell anyone. Rocco promised and said he was sorry, and she said he knew how much she loved him. He said he loved her too, and she said, don’t worry. She was going to take care of everything.

Nathan asked if Britt saw who was responsible for shooting the agent, and she said, Jason Morgan. But he was protecting her. She told Dante that. Nathan said when he left the station, Jason wasn’t talking. She said she needed to see him and asked Nathan to give her a ride, but Portia said Britt needed to be admitted. Britt said that wasn’t going to happen. Give her a ride or she’d take a Ride Share. She’d walk if she had to, but one way or another she was seeing Jason.  

Jason was cuffed, and Dane asked where they were going. Jack said he was under no obligation to give Dante that information. Cullum had made it. He was in stable, but critical condition. It could go either way. Jason better hope for his sake that Cullum pulled through.

Valentin said the kids needed to get going, and Charlotte asked where she could drop Danny off. Danny said he needed to see his dad, but Valentin said he wasn’t going to see his dad tonight. Let his grandmother take care of him and he could see Jason tomorrow. Charlotte hugged Valentin and promised to talk to him soon. She’d let him know if she heard anything. They left, and outside, Charlotte said, Danny didn’t want to go home, did he? Whatever he needed, she was there.

Alexis said it was a violation of her client’s constitutional rights. They couldn’t drag him off to God knows where. He hadn’t stood trial. Jack said he was in charge, but Turner said, that would be her office. The crime was committed in Port Charles. Jack said it was the attempted murder of a WSB director in the line of duty while he was executing his warrant against said suspect. The WSB superseded their jurisdiction. Alexis said it didn’t supersede Jason’s human rights. She’d be filing a habeas petition. Jack said it was her right, but in the meantime, Jason was coming with them. Jason was brought out. 

Isaiah said he thought everything was under control, and Portia said there was nothing else he could have done. Isaiah said, Marco’s whole life was waiting for him to live it. He was so young. Portia hugged him.

Lucas said it was his fault. Marco wouldn’t be there if he hadn’t forced him to help Britt. He was polishing his halo and was blind to the fact that he was putting Marco in such a dangerous position… That’s not true. He knew it was dangerous, yet he insisted on Marco proving his love to him. Lucas cried and said they should have just left town together and never looked back. He was so sorry. He hoped Marco knew how much he loved him. He kissed Marco’s forehead and cried. He said, goodbye, my love, and left.

Carly told Valentin that she was going to station. She needed to see Jason. Valentin said they wouldn’t let her, but she said she’d like to see them try stopping her. He said he wasn’t going to say this in front of the kids, but the shooting of a high level WSB director wouldn’t be taken lightly. The security would be as tight as it got. She said, Jason told her that Cullum was a double agent. Something had to have happened for Jason to do what he did. Valentin said, unfortunately, they didn’t have proof, only Britt’s word, and Carly said they’d get proof. He said Cullum had the power and obviously covered his tracks, and she said she was sure he had. She didn’t know how they’d get proof, but they would. He said, in the meantime, the WSB would close ranks and take care of their own. They’d convict Jason and he’s go to Steinmauer. Carly said that wasn’t an option, and he said, how about this? What if Jason went missing in transit and became a fugitive? She asked how they made that happen.

Alexis demanded to know where her client was going, but Jack said it was privileged information. She said she couldn’t represent him if she didn’t know. She told Jason, this was only temporary. She’d fight this. He said she promised to take care of Danny. He was leaving Danny in her care as his legal guardian. Dante said he had to supervise the transfer.   

Sidwell and Ava arrived at the hospital, and he asked, where was his son? Isaiah said he was very sorry, but Marco didn’t make it. He was the doctor operating and believe him when he said they did everything they could. His injuries were too severe, and he’d already lost too much blood. Sidwell said, Isaiah did this? He botched the surgery to get back at him? Portia said she knew it was a difficult time, but Isaiah would never do that. Sidwell asked where Marco was, and Isaiah said, in Trauma Room 1.  

In the parking lot, Britt asked what was happening, and Dante said they were extraditing Jason. She said, where? and he said they weren’t saying. Britt said, this was illegal, and an agent said, stand back. She said Dante had to do something, and he said he’d love to, but his hands were tied. Britt moved toward the van, and the agent said he wasn’t going to warn her again. Nathan said, give her a minute, and Jason said it was okay. Britt cried and said she loved him, and the agent said, time to go. Jason said he loved her too.  

Valentin told Carly it would be a while before the trial. Jason would be found guilty and sent to Switzerland where he had powerful friends. He’d do what he could and in the meantime, they’d look for proof that Cullum was a double agent.

Elizabeth went into the exam room where Rocco was and said she heard they were looking for her. How could she help? Lulu said, Rocco hurt his hand, and Elizabeth asked how it happened. Lulu said Rocco was helping in the kitchen and got carried away with a knife.

Alone with Marco, Sidwell said he’d worked so hard. All the obstacles and he got over them. He adjusted and went on to become an amazing young man, a brilliant lawyer. He was so proud of him. He held Marco’s hand and asked if it was too late to tell love that he loved him. His kind, generous, beautiful boy… But tears were no good to him right now. No more tears. All he could do for Marco was fulfil the promise he’d made. That fulfillment would make Sonny Corinthos suffer his mother’s death and now his. It would not go unpunished.  

Outside, Ava approached Lucas, but he said, no. They weren’t doing this. If she told him that she was sorry and tried to comfort him, that would make it real. He already knew Marco was dead from a medical standpoint. He saw Marco’s body. He knew Marco was dead, but he wasn’t ready to grieve. He wasn’t ready for any of this. They had plans. They were buying a house, a beautiful house on the lake. Now he was gone. Ava hugged Lucas and said she was sorry.  

Turner said she had the right to hold Jason and try him in Port Charles, but Jack said she’d been outranked. She said they’d see about that, and he said, by the time a judge got Jason out of there, they’d never find him. Alexis said, it was a violation of Jason’s rights, a government authorized kidnapping, but Jack said, Jason shot the wrong guy. His fate was in the hands of the Bureau. Alexis said she promised her grandson to help his father and that’s what she was going to do, but Jack said it was too late. Her grandson was never going to see his father again.

Britt told Nathan that they had to help Jason, but he told her that she’d said herself that Jason shot Cullum. Britt said this was crazy, when Danny arrived. He asked where his dad was going, and Dante said, the WSB were taking custody of him. Danny said, where? but Dante said he didn’t know right now. Jason told Danny to remember what he said, and Danny said he loved Jason too. An agent said, back off, but Danny ran to the van. He said, this is wrong. You can’t do this. Nathan pulled him away, and Danny cried, saying, dad!  

Thursday:

Carly went to see Sonny, who told her to keep calling Jack to find out what the charges against Jason were and where they took him. Carly said she knew Jason was leaving town. What the hell happened?

Saying she was a reporter, Lulu called the hospital for an update on Cullum, since he was a public servant shot in the line of duty. She got nothing. Nathan showed up and she asked if he had news on Cullum or if anyone knew Rocco was involved in the shooting.

Tracy went to see Alexis, who said Jason made the decision about Danny’s guardianship and Danny would be living with her.

Ava came home to Lucas, and she said he had her to help him keep going, even when he didn’t want to.

Dante told the desk sergeant to gather any evidence relating to Cullum. They were keeping it and the WSB could take it up with Turner if they had any questions. Sidwell came in and asked if Dante had apprehended the monster who’d murdered his son.

At the hospital, Josslyn insisted on talking to Britt and asked, what happened to Jason?

Alexis said Jason had told her himself that he wanted her to be Danny’s legal guardian, and Tracy said she couldn’t believe Jason was gone, but it was always going to happen.

Lucas told Ava that he’d been up all night replaying his last conversation with Marco. They’d been making plans. They had a room at the MetroCourt and an appointment to see a house on the lake. He thought they were in the best place they’d ever been, completely honest about everything. Ava said that was special, and Lucas said he was so glad they’d said they loved each other.

Dante said he was sorry for Sidwell’s loss, but Sidwell said he didn’t need Dante’s sympathy. He needed results. Dante asked if Sidwell could think of any enemies Marco might have had, and Sidwell said, just one. Dante’s father.

Carly told Sonny that Jason would never blow a plan this badly. There was an element missing. How would they find him and get him out? Sonny said he was working on it, when Ric knocked at the door.

Lulu told Nathan that Charlotte was still at her mom’s and Rocco was upstairs listening to music. He’d been shaken up, but once he seemed okay, she took him to the hospital. Elizabeth was the only one who saw them and she’d told Elizabeth that Rocco cut himself in the kitchen. Nathan asked if Rocco told her what happened, and she said Rocco told her everything. She knew he’d shot Cullum.

Britt said Jason was taken away by the agency Josslyn worked for, and Josslyn asked what went down. Britt said she’d been waiting for Jason, when Cullum showed up. Things got heated and Cullum ended up with a bullet in his back. Josslyn said, cut the crap. The people she loved were in danger and so was Britt. Jason trusted them and now they had to trust each other.

Nathan said he didn’t see Rocco shoot Cullum, and Lulu said Cullum lost his gun and Rocco grabbed it and shot Cullum in the back with his own gun. Nathan asked if Rocco said why he went there, and she said he went to see Britt and was worried something was wrong. He followed her and ended up shooting a WSB agent to protect Jason and Nathan’s sister.  

Josslyn said Britt needed to tell her everything, and Britt asked if that worked both ways. Josslyn said, yes, and Britt said she was on the pier meeting Lucas. His boyfriend stole the medication she needed for her Huntington’s and Lucas gave it to her. Josslyn said, Marco and Lucas were working against Sidwell? and Britt said, in a way. Lucas left and she was alone waiting for Jason. She didn’t know how Cullum tracked her. Josslyn asked what he wanted, and Britt said he no longer needed her services. She was trying to skip town with the medication to have it reverse engineered and Cullum decided she was more trouble than she was worth. He wanted her dead.

Tracy asked if Jason was hurt, but Alexis said he was mostly fine physically. He was stoic, but she could tell he was worried about Danny. Tracy said Jason was making a big mistake. Taking Danny away from his home was the last thing he needed when his father had just been ripped away.

Lucas told Ava that he’d thought they were moving in too soon, but Marco cut through his fears and convinced him to let Marco love him. Marco would have done anything for him. Ava said they hadn’t wasted the time they’d had together, and Lucas didn’t have anything to regret, but Lucas said he thought he did. Marco was dead because of him.

Sidwell said Marco had been abducted around the time of his mother’s death, but Dante said there was no record of it. Marco said his car had broken down and he got stranded while hiking back. There was no report and no charges were filed. His son said it was unnecessary. Sidwell said it was a lie to keep the peace. Marco didn’t want to start a war. Sonny was more than capable of targeting his son to get to him and of killing him.

Carly asked why Ric was there, and Sonny said he wanted to use Ric’s legal expertise to help Jason. Ric said he understood why Carly didn’t trust him, and Carly said Ric hated Jason for decades. It was great for him. He could worm his way back into Sonny’s business. Ric said he was rebuilding his relationship with his brother and proving Sonny could rely on him, and she asked if Jason could rely on him.

Alexis said Jason had done his best to put Danny first, and Tracy said Alexis was getting what she wanted. Alexis said Scout visited there regularly and she and Danny could make up for lost time. Tracy said Scout was welcome in her home, but Alexis said, Willow wasn’t and had custody of Scout. She and Danny could be together, which was what Jason asked for and her daughter wanted. Tracy said she could fight it, and Alexis said she knew, but why did Tracy want to hurt Danny? He needed all of them.  

Ava said the man Lucas loved was gone and he was trying to gain a tiny bit of control over the situation. Marco’s murder was tragic, but beyond his control. The only person responsible was the monster who did it. Lucas said it could have been different, and she said, emotions were high. He had to give himself time to process and grieve. Let the PCPD investigate. He said when Dante asked who might harm Marco, he’d tell him to start with Marco’s father.  

Dante suggested Sidwell stay focused. They knew Marco had been stabbed multiple times in his place of employment. The office belonged to Sonny’s attorney and the law partner she shared the space with was the mother of Sonny’s kid. The possibility seemed highly unlikely. Sidwell said Dante should recuse himself. He was too biased to see what was in front of him. Dante said it was his department. Don’t tell him how to run it. Sidwell had suffered a terrible loss and wanted the person responsible found, as did he. Sidwell had a long list of enemies. Was there anyone else he thought would attack his son to get to him?

Ric said it wasn’t an easy fix, but he’d do everything in his power to help, and Carly said she wouldn’t stand in his way. She’d let Sonny know as soon as she talked to Jack. She left, and Ric said she’d never trust him. Sonny said he trusted Roc and that’s what mattered. He’d proven Sonny could rely on him and he was putting the Jason situation in Ric’s hands. Jason was gone and he wanted him back. Ric said he wasn’t going to lie. He wasn’t sure that was possible.

Josslyn said she thought Britt was indispensable to Faison’s project, but Britt said, if you pushed hard enough, everyone was dispensable. That’s why she was leaving. She needed to get away before the research reached a certain point and they could turn it over to another scientist. Josslyn said the project could have collected dust until it dissolved altogether, and Britt said, that was the plan, if they’d gotten away, but the WSB had Jason. If Cullum pulled through, he’d make sure she paid. Josslyn said Britt gave a statement to the police. Why did she tell them that Jason shot Cullum? Britt said Jason told her to.

Nathan said Cullum was about to shoot Britt? and Lulu said Rocco saw the whole thing. Cullum was standing over Britt, about to pull the trigger, when Jason attacked him. Cullum got the upper hand and was about to beat Jason with some kind of metal thing. Nathan said, tha’s when Rocco got the gun, and Lulu said Rocco was trying to protect Jason and Britt and was acting in self-defense. Nathan said he agreed, but they had nothing to prove it, just Rocco’s word. If Rocco was thinking about coming forward, don’t let him. If he confessed, it would destroy his life.

Alexis said she had no intention of keeping Danny away from Tracy’s family. He was a Quartermaine, but needed love, boundaries, and peace. She was more equipped to give him that right now. Carly knocked at the door and asked if Danny was there. Alexis said he was out. Why? Carly said she was there on Jason’s behalf and would like to know what was happening with his son.  

Britt said when she came to, Jason was there and Cullum was shot in the back, and Josslyn said, so she didn’t actually see Jason shoot him. Britt said, no, but the first thing he said was that she had to tell them he’d shot Cullum. He insisted. Josslyn asked, why? but Britt said she didn’t know. Everything happened quickly and she was still out of it. The cops showed up and she never would have said that if Jason hadn’t told her to. She cried and said she didn’t know how it happened. They were so close to getting away and being finally free. Instead, it went horribly wrong.

Nathan told Lulu, as far as the WSB was concerned, Cullum was executing a warrant to bring Jason in. He didn’t fight or protest, and there was no struggle. Britt said she’d seen Jason shoot Cullum. Lulu asked how that was possible. Jason was covering for her son. Nathan said Britt was unconscious and Jason told her to say she saw him. He chose to protect Rocco. He told Nathan to get Rocco off the pier before the cops came. Jason was the reason Rocco was home and not in police custody. Lulu said she knew what the WSB did to prisoners. They threw them in a windowless pit to rot. Jason may never come home again.

Ric said the WSB had the authority to take an individual into custody who’d attempted to kill one of their own, and Sonny said, even in the US, Jason had no rights? Ric said they had complete authority to extradite him and not disclose his location, and Sonny said they could throw Jason in a hole and not tell anybody. Ric said, unfortunately, they had little or no recourse, but Sonny said he had information that could change that. Cullum was working against the WSB. He was a double agent who’d tried to kill him twice. He was responsible for the bomb at the penthouse that burned Michael.

Sidwell said Dante needed to confirm the whereabouts of Jason and his father at the time of Marco’s murder, and Dante said his father just sold Sidwell his piers. Didn’t that mean they were getting along? Sidwell said that Sonny had allegedly abducted Marco. Why go after him again? Sidwell said that was for Dante to figure out and went into the squad room. He saw Lucas come in.  

Sidwell hugged Lucas and said Lucas had loved his son. He was so grateful that he got to see how happy Lucas made him. He thanked Lucas for loving his boy and hoped Lucas would come back to Windymere tonight. It was his home after all. He touched Lucas’s face, said it always would be, and left.

Tracy asked if Carly had come to throw her hat in the custodial ring, and Carly said, no, but she’d be happy to have Danny live with her if they couldn’t handle it. Alexis said that wasn’t necessary, and Tracy said Danny would be living with his grandmother like Jason wanted. Alexis thanked her and said she thought Danny would benefit from some structure and supervision. Carly said, rules, and Alexis said sometimes rules were good for children. Carly said if she put Danny in a box with rules and regulations, he’d run in the opposite direction. It sounded like she was going to make the same mistake Alan and Monica had made with Jason.

Sonny told Ric that Brick traced the payment to a WSB slush fund. The bomb was establish intelligence and technology. Ric said, so the WSB had access to it. Who was Cullum working with? Sonny said, Jenz Sidwell, and Ric wondered why Sidwell was still breathing if Sonny knew all this. Sonny said Sidwell had fabricated evidence tying him to a murder he did not commit, and Ric said it wouldn’t hold up against scrutiny. He could get Sonny out of it. Who was the victim? Sonny said he couldn’t. It involved someone else he cared about and he didn’t want to put them in a bad position. He trusted Ric, but couldn’t make choice for them. Ric asked, what was the plan? and Sonny said just because they couldn’t move against Sidwell didn’t mean they couldn’t move against Cullum. They didn’t know he knew they were working together. He could take Cullum out and no one would look his way. Jason was supposed to kill Cullum on his way out and he didn’t know what the hell happened.

Josslyn said Cullum tracked Britt to the pier, so she was guessing he killed Marco, and Britt said Marco died because he was helping her. He didn’t even like her and died because he was saving her. Josslyn said this wasn’t on Britt. Marco helped because he wanted to help. It was all on Cullum. Cullum and Sidwell were partners. That meant Cullum was willing to risk killing his partner’s son. This was information Sidwell didn’t have that they could use. Britt said it showed what a ruthless guy Cullum was. There was nothing to stop him from killing her.  

Tracy said Carly didn’t need to tell her anything about her brother and sister-in-law, and Carly said, after Jason’s accident, they’d tried to constrain Jason, and he went running for Sonny. Alexis said they couldn’t let Danny run wild, and Carly said Danny was Sam and Jason’s son and needed room. She knew how much they loved and wanted to protect him. It’s what Sam would want. If they loosened the reins and were safe space for Danny, he’d come back and not be put in the position where he felt forced to run away. Carly left, and Tracy said she wasn’t wrong. Danny was his father’s son. Alexis had her work cut out for her.  

Nathan said the likelihood of Jason being released from WSB custody was low, and Lulu asked if they were going to let him die for protecting her son. Nathan said, Rocco acted in the moment to save Jason and Jason was doing the same. He didn’t want Rocco to be ripped away from his life for doing a selfless thing. Don’t let him be saved in vain, especially if Cullum died.

In the interrogation room, Lucas said, things were good. They were happy. Dante said what about Sidwell’s enemies? but Lucas said Marco never spoke about his father’s business. He would never be involved in something illegal. Dante asked if Sonny’s name came up, but Lucas said, only that they’d made peace. There was no residual anger on either side. Dante said they’d just started, and he wouldn’t stop until Marco’s killer was brought to justice. But understand, when that happened, it wouldn’t bring back the person Lucas loved. Lucas said it wouldn’t, but justice was important for Marco. It had to happen.

Sidwell went to Ava’s, and said he’d just seen Lucas at the police station and realized Lucas was the only other person who’d truly loved his son. Ava said, Lucas loved Marco very much and for good reason. Marco was a remarkable man. Sidwell cried, and Ava said the pain he was feeling was unimaginable, unbearable. She was so sorry. He said it wasn’t just Marco’s death. That was horrible enough, but it was how he died. Someone viciously stabbed him seven times and left him bleeding on the floor in pain. (And where he worked – that’s the worst part. Who wants to die at their job?) That was personal. That was the message. Was it his fault? Did he get his son killed? Ava took his hand.

Sonny told Ric that Jason made the call a few days ago, and Ric asked if it was possible Jason tried to kill Cullum at the pier, but Sonny said Jason was a professional. He didn’t get sloppy. It wasn’t supposed to happen at the pier. Things must have gotten out of control for him to shoot Cullum and not kill him. Cullum was alive and gotten through surgery. Ric said, assuming he made a full recovery, Sidwell had his partner at the WSB and Sonny had lost Jason for now. Sonny said they’d think because he didn’t have Jason that his organization was crippled. They could use that to their advantage. He and Jason had two different ways of doing things and he needed to do it his way. Help him take down Sidwell and Cullum. It was risky and very dangerous. If Ric hadn’t thought about it, there was the front door. Ric said, if Cullum lived, he and Sidwell would think they were holding all the cards, but they weren’t. They didn’t know what he and Sonny could do. Forget the door. He wasn’t going anywhere. They shook hands.

Britt told Josslyn that Brennan knew Cullum was a double agent. Couldn’t he do something? Josslyn said Brennan only did what benefitted him. She wished it was different, but there was nothing they could do for Jason right now. All they could do was look out for themselves and the people they cared about. It’s what Jason would want them to do. Britt said Cullum was a monster. If he recovered, he’d go after everyone connected with this and they were as good as dead. Josslyn said, that may be true, but Cullum was lying unconscious and Britt was a doctor. That meant she had access to him. Maybe she should use it.

🫔 Friday’s Enchilada…

Brook brushes her hair and asks what Chase is doing. He doesn’t have time for a shower. He asks, what’s wrong? Is someone in trouble? She says, yes, they are. They have their in home interview with the social worker in 20 minutes.

In the nook, Michael asks Wiley to tell him about the project he’s got to do… Is he okay? Wiley says, yeah. It’s just, where’s Danny? Where’s Uncle Jason? Why do people just go away? Michael says, Uncle Jason had to go on a little trip. They probably won’t see him for a while. But Danny is just at his Grandmother Alexis’s house. He’ll be back before Wiley knows it. He knows how Danny loves spending time with him. Wiley says he wishes Danny was spending time with them now, and Michael says him too, but for now, it’s just them and Wiley has this big project to do, so what does he say. Shall they get to work? Wiley says he has to pick an animal and make a drawing that says where they are on the food chain. He doesn’t know what animal to do. Michael asks, what’s his most favorite animal ever? and Wiley says, spiders. They’re Jacinda’s favorite. Michael laughs.

On the phone, Sonny says he wants the plates of every car that drives by here. Run intersecting patrols and he wants it 24/7. He goes inside and asks Gio, how was his workout? Gio says, great. What’s going on? Sonny says, nothing, but Gio says, there’s tons more security. When he got back, one of Sonny’s guys was looking at his car kind of suspiciously. Sonny says, things are just a little tense, and Gio says, because of the fight Jason had with Dante?

Turner asks if Dante has a minute, and he says, sure. They go into the interrogation room, and he asks what he can do for her. She says, that stunt the WSB pulled with Jason Morgan last night was appalling. An extraordinary rendition? Unbelievable. Dante says he guesses that’s her first experience with the WSB taking over a case, and she says, the idea that the WSB can just take over a case and supersede local jurisdiction whenever they feel like it is garbage. He says he agrees with her, but their jurisdiction is Port Charles and the WSB’s is… well, the world. She says, even so, they should be handling it, not the WSB, and he says that’s why he has the evidence under lock and key, so the WSB won’t get their hands on it without court orders, warrants, and the cavalry.

Rocco comes downstairs and asks, what time is it? Lulu says, it’s afternoon, and he says, what about school? She says he needs the rest. How did he sleep? He says, the sleeping part was fine, but waking up, he remembered what happened. He was hoping it was a dream, but then hi hand hurt, and he knew it was for real. He shot Agent Cullum.

Britt says, so the solution is, she kills Cullum? and Josslyn says, pretty much. Britt tells her that she doesn’t know what to say to that, and Josslyn says, Britt said it herself that if Cullum recovered, he’d make them pay. It’s better for both them and the people they care about if he’s gone. He’s in ICU. She doesn’t have access to him, but Britt does and they’ll never have a better chance than now.

Chase tells Brook that he was working on Marco Rios’s homicide all night and didn’t get to bed until 7 this morning. Is there any way they can reschedule? Brook says, no. They asked that the appointment be expediated because of special circumstances. He says he was aiding an investigation of a homicide. He’s pretty sure they would understand. She says, no. If he says he can’t do the interview because he was working all night, it would be like saying he couldn’t parent because he working all night. He says, okay. That is not exactly… She says, they just have to show them that they’re good to go, no matter what the circumstances are. Phoebe will be placed with them immediately. He says, okay. Than that’s what they’ll do.

Turner tells Dante, putting aside this Jason/WSB situation at the moment. Where are they in the Marco Rios murder? Did Lucas give him anything new when he made his statement? Dante says he tried. He spoke to Lucas, but he’s going to have to try again. He was pretty messed up. She says she’s sure. What did forensics turn up at Alexis Davis’s office? He says, not much. It was during business hours, so there was no sign of forced entry. The doors were unlocked and there were no cameras in the waiting room or office. She says, of course (🍷) there aren’t, and he says, they’re still dusting for prints, but there’s been nothing unexpected found. She says, what about the victim’s phone? but he says, it’s still missing. She asks what Jenz Sidwell said when Dante questioned him, and Dante says, a lot, especially about his number one suspect – my father.

Sonny wonders if Gio is worried because he knows Jason can do some damage, but Gio says, Jason is a solid dude. He knows the guy has a reputation, but he lives at the Quartermaines’. He’s so great and level-headed. Sonny says, Jason has different sides to him. They all do. Gio must figure that Dante is pretty tough too. Gio says, he has to be if he’s up and walking around after Jason slammed him in the face, and Sonny says, Gio can go check on Dante himself.

Lulu says, Nathan came by earlier, and Rocco says, to arrest him? but she says, no, to check on him. She wants to make sure he understands what they said last night. He cannot tell anyone he was on the pier or involved with the shooting. He says he knows, and she says, not anyone. Not even Charlotte or Danny. Rocco says, okay. He gets it. She says, good. She knows he’s been though something terrible and he’s going to want to talk about it, and he should, but only with her, okay? He says he promises. Where’s Jason? What happened to him? She says, Jason has been arrested, and Rocco says, for what he did?

Britt says, so is Cullum a WSB sanctioned hit and Josslyn is the messenger or has Josslyn just gone completely rogue, which she kind of respects. Josslyn says, they know Cullum is Sidwell’s partner. They know Cullum is covering Sidwell with the WSB, so the WSB is basically useless. Britt says, so rogue it is, and Josslyn says, and they’re pretty sure Cullum killed Marco. Britt says, our Director Cullum is quite the multitasker, and Josslyn says, our Director Cullum is lethal. And if they don’t get rid of him now, Britt is going to go back where she started, relying on him for her medication as he holds her life in his hands. Britt says, she’d be so much worse off, and Josslyn asks if she thinks Cullum would finish the job on her. Britt says, eventually. After what happened at the pier, he’s going to make it his mission to exact revenge on Jason through her. Josslyn says, so if Cullum recovers, her situation deteriorates fast. Don’t let it come to that. Get Cullum before he gets you.

Gio says, Dante is probably okay, and Sonny says, it’s okay to be worried about Dante. That says a lot about who Gio is after what the two of them have been through. Gio says, it hasn’t been easy, and Sonny says, it’s not Gio’s fault. Dante has been hard on him. Gio says, he has been, but he gets it, and Sonny says, just because he gets it doesn’t mean it’s right. The fact that he still cares about what’s going on with Dante has got to mean a lot. Gio says he’s thought a lot about what Sonny said, that one of them has to build a bridge in that situation, and Sonny says he should have been more specific. Gio is the one that’s got to build the bridge. Gio says, why him? and Sonny says, because Dante has given him space. He has to let Dante know when enough’s enough. If Gio feels that way, he thinks that might be how Dante feels.

Brook sets out tea, when the doorbell rings. She yells upstairs to Chase that the social worker is here. Hurry up. She answers the door and introduces herself. A woman says she’s Sarah Miles from Children and Family Services, and Brook thanks her for coming over so soon. Sarah tells her, they said the circumstances were urgent and they listen when people say that. Her home is lovely. Brook thanks her and says, it’s been in the family a long time. Sarah says, speaking of family, her husband is joining them, right?

Michael says, remember what Jacinda told him about the spiders she saw in Australia, and Wiley says, yeah. She said they were as big as cats. Michael says, that’s way too big if you ask him. In fact, he has a little confession to make. Wiley says Michael can tell him, and Michael says, spiders kind of scare him. Olivia comes in, and Wiley says he wants Michael’s help, but doesn’t want him to be scared. Does he think they could ask Jacinda to help him with his project? Olivia clutches her figurative pearls.

Rocco tells Lulu, Cullum was the one committing a crime. He was about to shoot Britt. He’d have killed her if Jason hadn’t stopped him. Then Cullum attacked Jason. He didn’t know what to do. That’s why he grabbed the gun and did what he did. Lulu says, unfortunately, there’s no way to prove what he’s saying, and Rocco asks if there were no security cameras down by the docks. Lulu says, if there were, they would have picked up everything, including Nathan getting him out of there, and Nathan would have told them. It would mean Rocco’s word and Jason’s against Cullum and Cullum is a WSB agent. Not just an agent, a director, a hero who was shot in the line of duty. Rocco says, he is not a hero, and she says she knows, but he has a reputation that puts him above suspicion and Jason is… just Jason. And Rocco’s word… He’s the one who shot Cullum. Rocco says he did it because… and she says she knows why he did it and so does Jason. That’s why Jason had Nathan get him out of there. Rocco says, it’s so unfair, and she says, yes, it is. He says, Danny’s father shouldn’t go prison for him, but she says, based on what he and Nathan told her, it sounded like Jason saved his life last night. Knowing Jason, he decided to return the favor. That’s why he’s not saying what really happened. He doesn’t want anyone to know, and that definitely includes Danny and Rocco’s dad.

Sarah says, so why not tell her how Brook and her husband came to know this baby, and Brook says, it’s a really sad story… Chase joins them and says he’s so sorry he’s late. Sarah Miles. How is she? Sarah says, fine, thanks. She saw his name on the application and thought it really couldn’t be him, could it? Then again, how many Harrison Chases could there be? Brook says, so you two know each other? and Chase says they worked on a case together last year. Sarah says, and it had a good outcome. In no small part because of Brook’s husband. It’s good to see you again. Detective Chase. Chase says, actually, it’s not detective anymore… but Brook says, that’s story for another time. Sarah says, that’s fine. They have plenty of other things to discuss. Chase says, he’s sure they do. Just so she knows, he’s still on with the PCPD, just in a different capacity. Sarah says, glad to hear it, and Chase says he’d be happy to tell her about it. He and Brook are an open book.

Dante gives the desk sergeant a folder with an update, and everything listed in the Rios case, in case Turner needs it ASAP, and the officer says, got it. Gio comes into the station, and Dante asks if he’s all right. Gio says, yeah. He’s good. Dante says, that’s a relief. What brings him by? Gio says, actually he’s here to check on Dante.

Fizz 🐶 barks and Sonny says he hears him loud and clear. Someone’s at the door. He picks Fizz 🐶 up and says, okay now. You’ve got to stay frosty. You never know what’s going to happen when I open the door. Turner is there, and Sonny says, hey. He thinks that’s Fizz 🐶advising him not to talk to her.

Rocco asks Lulu, what about Cullum? Is he… She says, as far as she knows, he’s still alive, and Rocco asks if he’s going to make it. She says she’s not sure, and he says he hopes Cullum does. He knows Cullum probably shouldn’t have tried to kill two people he cares about. He knows Lulu doesn’t like that he cares about Britt. Lulu says, how he feels about Britt is how he feels about Britt. As far as Cullum goes, it’s good he cares about what happens to him, but it’s not a surprise. that’s who he is. Rocco says, somebody who doesn’t know the difference between good and bad? but she says, no. He’s kind and compassionate, even when people don’t necessarily deserve it. She’s not talking about Britt, just Cullum. He says he didn’t want to kill Cullum, but had to stop him. She says she knows, and he asks if she can call Nathan and ask how Cullum is, but she says she’ll do him one better. She’ll go down and check on him at the hospital herself and report back. He asks if that wouldn’t be risky. No one is supposed to know he’s involved. She says, and they won’t. His mom is a reporter. She’ll just say she’s doing a follow-up piece on the events at the pier, which she actually probably will someday. Okay? Rocco says, okay, and she says he knows she’d do anything for him, right? He says he knows, and they hug. She says, they’re going to get through this, and he says, it’s going to be okay.

Josslyn asks, what’s so funny? and Britt says, nothing. Just the new me and good old pier 55. Josslyn says, where Britt saved her life, and Britt says, who would have known a few hours later, Cullum and company would snatch her from the jaws of death, and here they are again. You and me. Josslyn says she definitely couldn’t have predicted it at the time, and Britt says, honestly, until Josslyn walked in here, she couldn’t have predicted them having this conversation ever. Josslyn says her neither, but here they are. And the question is, what’s going to happen when they leave this room? Britt says she wishes she knew, and Josslyn sits down. She says, Britt is a doctor. She took an oath. Killing Cullum – or anyone – is a big ask. Britt says, what a gift you have for understatement, Agent Jax, and Josslyn says she’ll do it. Britt says, her, a baby WSB agent, assassinate one of her own higher ups? and Josslyn says it’s not like she has a choice. Britt says, unless she does it, but Josslyn says Britt is off the hook. She shouldn’t have asked. Britt thanks Josslyn for thinking of her, but isn’t it a bit out of Josslyn’s purview too, or do they just tell her she can go in and whack anybody she wants? Has she ever killed anyone before?… Okay… Josslyn says she was trained to identify when an agent has to take action independently for the greater good and this is one of those moments. She gets up, and Britt says, wait. Marco lost his life trying to get her those meds, and God knows what will happen to Jason. She doesn’t want anyone else to risk themselves for her. Josslyn asks what she wants to do, and Britt says she’ll take care of Cullum herself.

Brook tells Sarah that they brought Phoebe’s mother Delilah to the hospital. Delilah asked her to stay while she gave birth and she did… at first. Chase says, unfortunately, Delilah didn’t make it through the delivery, and Sarah says she’s sorry. It must have been a difficult experience. Brook says, it was awful. After everything that happened, of course (🍷) they feel a responsibility to the baby… to make sure she’s well taken care of until her family is located. Sarah asks, how’s that coming? and Chase says, the PCPD is working on it. Unfortunately, progress is a little slow at the moment. Sarah says, so they’re both going into this expecting it to be a temporary arrangement, and Brook says, absolutely. They just want to help Phoebe in the interim. As she can see, they have a big house full of family and access to the best resources. She’ll want for nothing. Chase says, and they both have experience as guardians. He had temporary custody of his niece Violet for several months back in 2024. Sarah says, yes. She has that in here. Brook says she cared for her friend Maxie’s little one, Bailey Lou, and Sarah says, she did? She wonders why it’s not in her folder, and Brook says, there were extenuating circumstances. Chase says, the child’s father was Peter August, and Sarah tells him, enough said. They all remember him. Let’s back up a minute. It seems they’ve both developed an attachment to this child, which is completely understandable considering everything they’ve gone through together. Brook asks if it’s that obvious, and Sarah says, a little bit. Given that this is a temporary foster situation and not a permanent adoption, she has to ask, will they be able to give up the baby when the time comes?

Michael says he knows for a fact that Jacinda knows a lot more about spiders than he does – Olivia looks to the heavens – and he knows she’d love to help Wiley. Wiley asks if they can invite her over then, and Michael says he’ll call her right now. Olivia says she thinks she saw Wiley’s boots in the mudroom. Does he think he could put them where they belong before somebody trips? Wiley says he’ll be right back, and leaves. Olivia says, seriously? and Michael says Olivia made her position on Jacinda perfectly clear, so let’s just not do this right now. Olivia says she’s afraid they have to, and he says, why now? Olivia says, because it’s important they talk honestly. Frankly, she owes him an apology. he says, for what? and she says, for being right

Gio says he saw online that Jason assaulted Dante and took off. Is that true? Dante says, pretty much, give or take a few details, and Gio says, that’s crazy. Dante says, it wasn’t great, but he’ll be fine. Thanks for checking on him. Gio says he’ll let Dante get back to work, but Dante says, wait. Between the two of them, he’s no good with the coffee machine in the breakroom. Does Gio want to give it a shot?  

Turner says, if Sonny doesn’t mind, she’d like to confer with his counsel personally. Sonny says, like he told her before, Fizz 🐶 is not a fan of District Attorneys, and she says, yet. But any good consigliere will try to negotiate. She gives Fizz 🐶 a treat, and Sonny puts him on the floor. He runs off, and Sonny says, so much for Fizz 🐶 being loyal to him. She says, it’s just as well. She needs to ask him a few off-the-record questions without his lawyer present. He says, about what? and she says, Marco Rios.

Charlotte comes home and asks if Rocco is sick. He says, not really. He just messed himself up a little. She asks what he did, and he says he was helping mom in the kitchen and sliced open his hand. She says, grisly. Don’t take this the wrong way, but she can’t see him being any help in the kitchen. He says, obviously not. How was grandma’s last night? She says, it was… Is mom here? He says, nope, and she sits next to him on the couch. She says, so grandma had a work emergency to deal with, which turned out to be a good thing, because Danny texted her and she had to sneak out to help him.

Britt goes into Cullum’s hospital room, her right hand in her pocket. She walks to the bed slowly and takes out a syringe. She’s about to inject his IV, when she hears Lulu say, Britt?

Britt says, what the hell? This is the ICU. Lulu can’t let herself into a patient’s room in the ICU. Even she has to know that. Lulu says, about that… but Britt says, there is no about that. Lulu is trespassing, so excuse her. She’s treating a patient who’s in critical condition. Lulu says, sorry about that, and Britt says, then get out. Lulu says, the thing is, she’s writing a story for the Port Charles Press – Britt says she doesn’t care – about the shooting of WSB Director Ross Cullum. Britt says, as Lulu’s journalistic powers of observation probably told her, the man is unconscious with a tube down his throat, so he’s not taking questions at the moment. Lulu says she can see that, but Britt was involved too, wasn’t she? Would she be willing to give a statement?

Charlotte says, then they pulled into the police station and saw Danny’s dad, and Rocco asks if he was okay. Charlotte says, he’s Jason Morgan, so she’s sure he was fine, but they had him all chained up. Two WSB guys put him into a van. Rocco says, they can’t just take him like that, can they? and she says, oh yeah, they can. They did the exact same thing to her dad, no trial or anything. The WSB just showed up and then he was gone.

Turner says, according to Marco’s father, Jenz Sidwell, Sonny is responsible for Marco’s disappearance last summer, and Sonny says he heard that. Turner says, now he’s espousing a theory that Sonny had his son killed as part of some of personal vendetta Sonny has against him, but Sonny says he had nothing to do with Marco’s death. Turner says, and she should believe him because … He says, Marco was seeing Lucas Jones and Lucas is his ex-wife Carly’s brother. Carly would be pissed off if he killed her brother’s boyfriend. Has she met Carly? She says she has, and he says, then she knows it’s not worth it. Sidwell wants Marco’s death to be his fault. She asks, why? and he says, Sidwell desperately wants to blame anyone else but himself.

Brook tells Sarah, there’s no denying they’re both very involved. At least one of them goes to see Phoebe every day. Chase says, mostly they both do, and Brook says, they’ve both been trained to hold her. They want to make sure Phoebe is held as much as possible. Chase says they get regular updates from the staff at GH, and Brook says their main goal is to take great care of Phoebe, so she is as happy and healthy as possible when it’s time for her to go back to her family. Sarah says, they keep calling her Phoebe. Officially, she is… Chase says, Baby Jane Doe, yeah, and Brook says she couldn’t stand it and the hospital staff didn’t like calling her that either. Chase says they checked with the hospital psychologist to make sure giving her a temporary name didn’t mess her up, and they assured… Sarah says, no. It’s fine. It’s just that naming a baby is a very parental thing to do. Brook says they know… and Chase says they made a promise to her mother to make sure she was okay and would love a chance to honor that promise. Sarah says, all right then, and closes her notebook. Why don’t they take her on a tour and show her where Baby Phoebe will be spending her time?

Olivia says she’s sorry about how the family came after Michael about Jacinda, but not sorry about why. She thinks he knows they had a reason to be concerned. He says, let him guess. Ned asked her to apologize to him. She says she and Ned had a constructive conversation, which is what healthy couples do in a relationship, and Michael says, thanks for the tip. He gets up and she says, speaking of tips, in a healthy relationship, one person is not paying the other one. He says he’s not paying Jacinda, and she says, but he was. At one time or another, he was paying Jacinda for her services. He says, this is just another opportunity to take body shots at her, and Olivia says she’s not hearing a no. He says he’s not hearing an apology. But to answer her question, no. She says, and he’s not hearing an apology because they both know it’s totally inappropriate for him to be having carnal knowledge of that woman in a house full of kids, and he says, she’s mentioned the gatehouse and discretion a hundred times, and he’s apologized every time. She says, he apologized once, and he says, she’s lucky she got the one, and inappropriate or not, Jacinda is important to him. She says it’s important he understand that he and Willow have a custody arrangement in place right now, but what about the future? Who knows what’s going to happen, and if something does, Jacinda’s history isn’t going to help him out then. Michael says he’s not going through this. He’s not going to not spend time with someone he likes because of what may or may not happen. And for the record, he likes Jacinda a lot. His feelings are growing stronger by the day. She says, what about Jacinda’s feelings for him? Does he really think she has them? He says he does and he’s not going to apologize for his relationship or his feelings for Jacinda because she’s uncomfortable with Jacinda’s previous occupation. She says, he can use any euphemism he wants, but he can’t hide the fact that Jacinda was a hooker. Wiley hears them.

Britt says, if she gives Lulu a statement, does she promise to stay out of the ICU and leave he patients alone? Lulu says, sounds fair, when Josslyn walks by in the background. Britt asks what Lulu wants to know, and Lulu says she understands from the police report that Britt was on the pier last night when Director Cullum was shot. What did she see? Who else was there?

Michael says he knows Olivia. She’s not a prude and not judgy. He respects her concerns and she’s right about the gatehouse. They should have been more careful. She says she’s glad they agree about something, and he says, another thing they can agree on is that he’s been through hell in the last few years with the bombing and dealing with Willow. Olivia says she knows, and he says, Jacinda has been a bright spot for him and his family. She’s great with the kids and makes him happy. Olivia says she can see that. If he’s happy, she’d happy for him. He asks if she’s sure about that, and she says, does she love all the details? No, she doesn’t, but she’s happy for him. He says, okay. He’ll take that. Now how does he get her to give Jacinda a real chance? How does he get her to see Jacinda as a person? What if they have dinner – her, Ned, Jacinda, and him. Jacinda loves Italian food. Olivia hesitates, the says, she could go classic with her traditional lasagna. She guesses that always brings people together. He says he’s never seen it fail.

Brook, Chase, and Sarah come downstairs, and Brook says she hopes she didn’t go overboard with the nursery. Sarah says, not at all. It’s lovely. Chase says he wishes he could take even a little bit of credit for it, and Brook says, the baby is going to sleep in their room, and they plan to get a night nurse anyway. Sarah says, sounds like they’re ready for anything. One more thing before she goes. Would it be possible to speak to other family members who would have regular contact with Phoebe? Chase says, sure. Absolutely they can make that happen. Brook says, in fact, here’s one now, and Wiley says, hey, Brook Lynn, what’s a hooker? (This literally means nothing since all small children will embarrass you like this at some point. All of them.)

Gio and Dante sip their coffee, and Dante asks, what’s the verdict? Gio says, it’s not bad, and Dante says, well, that’s an improvement then. Gio says, no way it’s up to their family standards. Has he thought of getting Corinthos Coffee in here? Dante says he thinks it would go over like a lead balloon in here. His dad would love to have the PCPD as a customer. Gio says, yeah, he would love that. Full disclosure. It was Sonny’s idea that he come down here – Dante says, oh – but he’s really glad he did. Dante says him too. It means a lot. Gio tells Dante that he’s gotta say, it looks painful as hell, and Dante says his face is fine. His pride is a different story.

Turner says, this is still an ongoing investigation so Sonny may be called down to the PCPD, in which case she strongly advises him to bring his attorney. Sonny says he can handle anything she throws at him, and she says, there’s a difference between confidence and arrogance. and arrogance generally results in a win for the prosecution. He says, it hasn’t happened yet, when Fizz 🐶 barks and sits up. He picks Fizz 🐶 up and says, Fizz 🐶, you know you’re not supposed to beg in the house. Turner says, maybe not, but he does have a very good nose because – gasp – she does have another treat. She gives it to Fizz 🐶, and Sonny says, she didn’t just come over here to ask questions. She says she may or may not have had another motive, and he says, what might that be? She says, Fizz 🐶 is really growing on her, and leaves. Sonny says, Fizz 🐶, you’re my rival now. I never saw that coming.

Charlotte tells Rocco, the worst part was when Danny tried to say goodbye to his dad and the WSB goons just slammed the door in his face. He was pounding on the van, trying to get the doors open. It took both Dante and Nathan to pull him off. He was still screaming for his dad as they drove away. Rocco says, oh my God, Charlotte… and Charlotte says she knows. What if Danny never sees his dad again?

Britt says, on second thought, no comment, and Lulu says, why? According to the police report, Cullum knocked her out, and when she came to, she saw Jason shoot him. Doesn’t she want the people to know why? Britt says, Lulu seems to have all the details, but Lulu says she doesn’t. That’s why she’s here. Britt says, Lulu is a journalist, not a District Attorney. She doesn’t have to answer Lulu’s questions, and Lulu says, okay. She won’t even talk about Britt. Can Britt at least give her an update on Agent Cullum. Is he going to pull through? Britt says, at this point, it’s hard to say

Josslyn goes into Cullum’s room and checks his IV lines. He opens his eyes and she freezes.

On Monday, Kristina tells Tracy to bring her family together; Michael says Chase and Brook know someone with more influence than he does; Lucas tells Josslyn that he’s going to make sure Marco didn’t die in vain; and Carly tells Jack that she deserves a real answer.

🧼 All the Soap News Fit To Print…

I’m taking it personally.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospital-comings-goings-adrian-anchondo-out-as-marco-i-cant-take-it-personally/

Poor Lucas can’t catch a break.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospital-exclusive-heartbroken-van-hansis-talks-marcos-exit-lucass-future/

Real life reaction.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospitals-adrian-anchondo-exit-days-star-boyfriend-colton-little-pays-tribute/

Kristina’s side gig, and it’s not Charlie’s.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospital-star-kate-mansi-heads-to-the-silver-screen-in-new-movie-casa-grande/

This is a bit of a stretch, but okay.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospitals-van-hansis-reveals-easter-egg-in-lucas-britt-scene/

💉 A Dose Of Reality…

Below Deck Down Under

New charter primaries Clay and Mark wanted to have a once in lifetime celebration of [their] life together with their best friends and wanted Captain Jason to officiate. In other words, they were doing a vow renewal during the charter. Finally having enough of Ben calling her honey, sweetie, darlin’, or anything else that wasn’t her name, Ellie went firmly and quietly ballistic, kind of like an elementary school teacher. Guest Neshea found a panty liner – yes, you read that right – WTF? – stuck to the inside wall of a cabinet in her cabin, which once again spoke to the characters of the previous charter guests. Although it also doesn’t say much for the stews’ cleaning skills. Guest Christina got drunk, and after refusing help getting on deck from a platform, fell and hit her head. This was even before everyone celebrated Pride Night, which was a huge success. Ellie finally blew her stack at Ben and went on a hunt for the captain. I hadn’t watched this offshoot of the franchise before and I’m loving the beautiful surroundings and the weird, colorful sea creatures.

Summer House

There was a party for Kyle’s birthday, and the theme was old folks, everyone dressing up accordingly. As usual, the costumes were on point, and also as usual, Kyle drank too much. He whined about not getting enough attention, but who wants to pay attention to a whiney 40 year old crybaby? He ended up calling Amanda a f***ing dumbass bitch, which no doubt was a final nail in their divorce coffin. He’s such an asshat.

Southern Charm – Reunion Part 2

Speaking of whining, there was lots of it from Craig. Any apology that was squeezed out of him was followed by a but. He still insisted it was Salley’s fault that he and Charley broke up, even though Charley was sitting right there and said, nope. It was him. Salley still insisted there was a future for her and Austen – even if it was just as friends (yeah, right) – even though Austen was sitting right there and his face said, nope. Not happening. It was Charley’s birthday, so the Reunion ended with cupcakes and the usual out-of-tune singing of Happy Birthday. Why is that song universally sung badly? Something to ponder. Shep also gave a toast: I drink to your health when I’m with you. I drink to your health when you’re gone. I drink to your health so often, I’m nearly endangering my own.

Southern Hospitality

I just don’t like the rudderless people on this show. The only thing I retained was that there was a bobbing for cucumbers game. Some sort of Truth or Dare situation. And something with Emmy and a microagression.

Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills

The women went on a grape stomping excursion. My first thought was, with my luck, I’d slip on some grapes, and then in Rachel’s interview, she said it was a Tuscan miracle she hadn’t gotten injured. Kyle and Erika tried to get Dorit to open up, but instead, Dorit dumped them during a gelato run, leaving them to figure out their own way back.

Ladies Of London: The New Reign

Missè and Kimi met to have a chat about Kimi’s comment that diminished the death of Missè’s brother. Kimi said she hadn’t meant it in a bad way, although I don’t know how else it could have been taken. When nothing else worked, she threw Margo under the bus, saying Margo had made a bigger deal out of it than it was. Lottie and her Dali doppelganger husband Joshua had a gender reveal and it’s a boy. Lottie said she’d dreamed of dresses and tiaras. Now she had visions of mini suits. I dunno. I think for sure Joshua would wear a tiara, so why give up the dream?

Random Reality Items

I’ll miss the Marge, but I can understand her wanting out.

Yeah, that Jersey Mike’s rant did her no favors.

I seriously thought The Valley: Persian Style was replacing this. Why do we need this show to come back again?

But will there be table flipping?

👀 Last Weekend’s Watch…

One Battle After Another. HBO/MAX. While Sinners was still up my alley with its parallel horror, this was an excellent film. Single father Bob has a revolutionary past, and when it catches up to him, he has to find his daughter, but can’t remember the code words to get to her. He’s all of us when his agency puts him on hold. I couldn’t help but like him. While the story is intense, there’s plenty of humor and the characters are believable. Sean Penn got a well-deserved Oscar for his portrayal of a military man gone off the rails. Leonardo DiCaprio and Benicio del Toro should have their own show. There’s lots of action, but be prepared for things you might want to look away from.

https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/one-battle-after-another-movie-review-2025

Wicked: For Good. Peacock. I saw this in the theatre and talked about it before, and no doubt it’s been talked about to death. That doesn’t make it any less worth watching, so I watched it again. It’s truly magnificent, even on a smaller screen. I dunno if it’s the best film for little kids. The Tin Man scared the bejesus out of me and you might end up having to explain some adult themes you weren’t ready to. Then again, probably all they’ll remember are those amazing CGi animals. And that poor, sweet Cowardly Lion. Let’s have a collective aww!

Like Wicked: For Good for Dummies.

https://www.nbc.com/nbc-insider/everything-to-know-about-wicked-for-good

https://www.wickedmovie.com/

🧙‍♂️ Watch Of the Past…

I don’t remember a lot about this show, but I do remember liking it a lot.

https://ew.com/northern-exposure-cast-where-are-they-now-11921831

🦄 Seasonal Change For the Stylish Pet…

People aren’t the only ones ready for spring.

👒 Outfit ideas.

https://www.parisianpet.com/blogs/news/picture-perfect-outdoor-spring-outfit-ideas

🐕‍🦺 Safety tips.

https://www.parisianpet.com/blogs/news/outdoor-safety-tips-for-spring-adventures

👜 For traveling pets.

https://www.parisianpet.com/blogs/news/spring-travel-checklist-for-dogs

📣 Quotes of the Week

If you always do what you’ve always done, you always get what you’ve always gotten. – Jessie Potter

Change is inevitable. Growth is optional. – John C. Maxwell

Life is about making an impact, not making an income. – Kevin Kruse

Permit yourself to change your mind when something is no longer working for you. – Nedra Glover Tawwab

My grandfather once told me that there were two kinds of people: those who do the work and those who take the credit. He told me to try to be in the first group; there was much less competition. – Indira Gandhi

Hardships often prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny.C.S. Lewis

There are risks and costs to action. But they are far less than the long range risks of comfortable inaction. – John F. Kennedy

I see you moonwalking back out of that. – Judge Dana Cutler, Cutler’s Court

👟 Spring In My Step…

Until next time, stay safe: stay using sunscreen during all seasons; and stay remembering that just because you get it, doesn’t mean it’s right.

Video> BTS (방탄소년단) ‘봄날 (Spring Day)’ Official MV – YouTube

January 2, 2025 – GH Weekdays, New Year’s Day In Port Charles, Soap Suds, This Week In Reality, Weekend Watching, Celebrations, Roll Call, A Passel Of Pups, Septuplet Of Quotes & My Year  

Standard

What I Watched Today

(Weekday bites, Friday’s whole GH enchilada & media minutiae)

General Hospital

🥢 Weekday Bites…                                                                           

Monday: 

Kristina wondered if a house fell on Drew, but Alexis said Willow convinced Drew that Scout should come over and he said, as long as Danny wasn’t there. Until she got Willow acquitted, they were at Drew’s mercy.

Sidwell was troubled by Portia’s allegations, but Drew said they were just allegations. Sidwell said if that changed, Drew was on his own, when Willow came in. She asked what she’d missed.

Tracy told Michael that she thought the first Christmas without Monica would be terrible, but it was tolerable. He commended her Christmas spirit and said Monica would be proud of Tracy leading the family through the holidays without her. The doorbell rang and Jacinda introduced herself to Tracy as Michael’s girlfriend. Tracy said she knew who Jacinda was.

Sonny saw Turner at the MetroCourt and said he didn’t want to interrupt, but she said wait. She was glad he did.

Cody showed up at Alexis’s with Danny.

Doc told Laura that he’d gotten a call from a colleague in Dublin. They wanted him to move to Ireland.

Danny asked if it was okay, and Kristina said, of course (🍷). There were hugs all around, and Danny said he had no clue Scout would be there. Alexis said it was a surprise to all of them, and Scout asked if Danny could stay. Danny said Christmas wasn’t the same without her.

At Windymere, Willow said Scout’s smile was off the charts, and Drew said he didn’t give a damn about the rest of them, but as long as Scout was in a good place, so was he. He wanted his daughter to see Willow as a source of good in her life. Scout was lucky to have her. Willow said she was the lucky one, and Drew said Sidwell wasn’t happy about the blackmail allegations. Willow said it was all her fault, but Drew said he blamed Alexis and no one else.

Marco found Lucas in their suite, and Lucas said Mrs. Drew Cain was there and he thought a tactful escape was best. Marco said, there might be another way forward.

Doc told Laura that it was six months as a visiting lecturer at a college and he’d be well paid. He told them that he’d think about it. Laura said she thought he should take it, but he said only if she came along.

Turner told Sonny that it couldn’t be all work all the time. She was taking a break. The last day before the holidays had been rough. Not for her… Sonny said he heard about Portia and heard Turner got her off the stand fast. Turner said the defense did most of her work for her, and he said that was part of it. She asked if he thought there was more, and he said as much as she tried to hide it, she had a heart.

Jacinda brought belated Christmas treats for the kids, and Michael asked if she wanted to go get a drink. Tracy said Jacinda had come all this way. How about a nightcap? She’d heard a lot about Jacinda and still had questions. For instance, Jacinda was an interesting name…

Sidwell said he’d be lying if he said he wasn’t concerned, and Jordan asked how he wanted to play this. He asked her to use her connections in the mayor’s office and PCPD to find out if there was a case pending. He needed to know if he should go all in with Drew or cut ties with him. She said she’d ask around, and he said her troubleshooting skills were invaluable to him, and she’d be well-compensated by her year-end bonus. She said she’d noticed tension between Lucy and Ava, and Sidwell said it was Lucy’s lucy dramatic flair. It was part of her charm, but Ava had charms of her own.

Scout said she missed them, and Danny said they missed her. When it snowed, he remembered their snowman. He was epic. Scout said, she, and Molly suggested they make another one. Alexis said they should do it out back, where there was more snow and more room, and Danny and Scout left. Cody said they were adorable, and Alexis said, an adorable nightmare. Kristina explained that Drew said Scout could only hang out with them if Danny wasn’t there, and Molly wondered if Drew was dying to win the worst dad competition. Alexis said he was a shoo-in, but they’d promised to abide by his demands. If Willow or Drew found Danny there… Kristina suggested they be allowed to spend some time together, and Molly said Sam would want them to keep making memories. Alexis said Drew was ruthless and wouldn’t blink on never allowing them to see Scout again, and Kristina suggested waiting until there was a natural break, then ing Danny. Alexis said, and break Danny’s heart.

Marco said maybe it was time to make peace, put the past in the past, and start fresh, but Lucas said he stood by what he did and said in regard to Willow. She was in the wrong. Marco said he agreed and admired Lucas’s integrity, but there were times when they should expediate going along to get along. Be polite. Wear a mask. Don’t show how he truly feels. Follow his lead. He was an expert. Lucas said he’d try, and Marco said it was all he asked.

Turner wasn’t sure if she took it as an insult or a compliment that Sonny thought she was easy on Portia because she was soft, and he said she’d shown empathy. She had what she needed and spared Portia more embarrassment and pain. He called that kindness. She asked him to keep it to himself. The last thing she needed was the reputation of being compassionate in court. He said it didn’t make her weaker. It did the opposite. She said she didn’t enjoy that Portia had been violated by the system she was part of, but she’d committed a crime and had to face the consequences for her actions. Sonny said Portia was a good person, and Turner asked if that gave her a pass. He said, sometimes good people made bad choices for the sake of those they loved, and she asked if it was his justification too.

Laura said she’d just been reelected, and it wasn’t the best time, but that didn’t mean Doc shouldn’t go. Jordan knocked at the door, stopping by to wish Laura a happy new year, and they hugged. Doc said he’d check on Ace, and left. Laura said it was a lovely surprise, but she sensed it wasn’t just social, and Jordan said she may have found something to give Laura what she wanted on Sidwell.

Lucas found Willow looking out a window and noticed the photo of Wiley and Amelia on her phone. He said it must make her smile when she looked at it, and she said it did. He said he was sure she missed them very much.

Tracy said she remembered Jacinda’s night out with her nephew Drew Cain, and Jacinda said, the body shots () heard round the world. Tracy thanked her and said, the negative press was so gratifying, and Jacinda said Drew was a job, part of her old life. Tracy asked if she was Jacinda 2.0, and Jacinda said it sounded silly, but yes. Tracy said it didn’t sound silly. What was the new Jacinda doing? Jacinda said she was working at Crimson as Nina Reeves’s assistant, and Tracy said Jacinda wasn’t being paid nearly enough. Jacinda said she and Nina found a way to co-exist, but she was lucky to have a chance to learn from Nina. She was good at what she did. Tracy said, so Jacinda was working in fashion, and Michael said it suited her. Tracy said she could see that and was happy for her, and Michael asked if Jacinda needed a refill. Jacinda said she needed directions to the powder room, Michael gave them to her, and she left. Michael thanked Tracy for being so kind, and she said she was being kind because he wasn’t.

Cody asked Scout to help him make hot chocolate and they went to the kitchen. Danny asked what was going on, and Alexis said she was glad he was able to spend time with his sister. It killed her to have to say… Danny said he needed to leave. He got it. Through her tears, Alexis said he needed to leave.  

Tracy said she and Jacinda were aligned in covering for Michael, who was clearly leading her on, but Michael said he wasn’t. She said he didn’t love Jacinda. He needed her and sometimes emotions got confused. He said he didn’t think that’s what was happening, and she said Jacinda was falling for him. He was keeping her in the dark as to his intentions and it was unfair to her. He said he swore he wasn’t and had real feelings for her, and Tracy said he wasn’t just lying to Jacinda, he was lying to himself. She’d been strung along by more men with an agenda than she cared to remember and it left lasting scars. He needed to be honest and clarify the parameters of the relationship.

Willow said she missed Wiley and Amelia so much she could barely breathe, and Lucas said, better photos than violating the custody order. She said they lived in the same city and accidental meetings happened, and he said, were they? He knew how it felt keeping distance. It was torture. That’s why he moved to Boston when he gave Wiley up. She said she had zero intention of giving up her children, much less moving, and he said he’d put Wiley first. He did what was best for Wiley, even if it wasn’t the easiest thing. Maybe she should try it. Drew came in and told Lucas to stop harassing his wife, but Lucas said he was encouraging her to do the right thing for the kids – aka, stay away from them. He was trying to be helpful. Drew said Willow didn’t need his help, but Lucas said Drew did. He’d taken two bullets out of Drew’s back and saved his life and legs. Have a good night. He walked out and Drew asked if Willow was okay. She said she was fine, but wanted to get out of there. She had to pick up Scout anyway. He said he hoped the time with Scout reminded Alexis of what she was fighting for.

Alexis said the only way they could see Scout was if Danny stayed away. There were all disappointed. Kristina said she hated that Drew could do this to them, and Alexis said she was doing what she could to help Willow so the restraining orders would be lifted, but until then, it sucked. Molly said, sucky Drew held all the power for now, and Danny said he was glad for the time he got to spend with Scout. Their mom would be happy that they’d carried on the snow tradition. He promised not to share any pics of it. Cody and Scout came back with the hot chocolate, and Danny said he had to get going. Seeing Scout was the best gift he got. Scout said her too. She loved him. They hugged, and he said he loved her. Take care of their snowwoman. Cody said he’d drive Danny home, and Alexis hugged Danny and told him that she loved him. Danny and Cody left, and Scout said she didn’t want Danny to go. Alexis said she knew, and everyone looked sad.

Jordan told Laura that she’d been in Sidwell’s inner circle for a month, but had found nothing of value in his business dealings. His personal life on the other hand… She was at Windymere for a Boxing Day party, and although Sidwell was openly dating Lucy, he’d been chatting up Ava as well and she got a flirtations vibe. Lucy was there and didn’t seem happy, but Sidwell seemed to enjoy himself. Laura said, if Lucy and Ava were competing for Sidwell’s affection, that may be something they could use to their advantage. Jordan said that’s what she was thinking, and Laura said Lucy was pretty impulsive.

Sidwell said he and Marco could toast to the end of a brutal year. There had been the devastating loss of Marco’s mother, and he was proud of the way Marco carried on. Marco said he’d been lucky to have distractions. His work, helping with the family business, and his relationship with Lucas. But Sonny still needed to pay with his life, since Sonny was the reason his mom lost hers. Sidwell said Sonny was suffering in other ways, and Marco said, it was a brilliant move, pinning Dalton’s murder on Laura and Sonny and using it as blackmail. Sidwell said now Marco understood why he needed to keep Sonny alive for the moment. When he was finished, Sonny was a dead man.

Sonny told Turner that he’d had to shield his family from his mistakes more than once. He knew what Portia was going through. He’d been on both sides of infidelity, and it was never black and white. Turner said that was the opposite of how it was in court. Right and wrong, guilt and innocence. He said the real truth was somewhere in the middle, and she said the only mercy she could exercise was before the trial in a plea deal and afterwards in the sentencing. He said, like with Rocco, and she said, exactly. He said he was grateful anytime anybody showed someone he loved that kind of grace. He didn’t forget it.

Jacinda came back and said she’d gotten lost. The house was huge and gorgeous. Tracy thanked her, and Jacinda asked how long it had been in the family. Michael said, since his grandfather had it built for his grandmother. She left it to Tracy. Jacinda said, very cool, and Tracy said it was. She thanked them for sharing a nightcap and said she’d leave them to their evening. She left, closing the door behind her, and Jacinda asked what Tracy said about her. She felt like Tracy might like her. Michael said they did talk about her, and she said, of course (🍷). That’s what happened when someone left a room. He said Tracy thought he was taking advantage of her.

Scout told Alexis that it was so much better than yesterday. She loved her presents, but being able to see Alexis, her Aunt Kristina, Aunt Molly, and Danny… Alexis said she was sorry Danny had to leave, and Scout said he was the only one who really understood what it was like not to have their mom there. Alexis said she understood, and Scout said, but it was different. Danny knew how it felt to have a mom be there and then be gone. Alexis said they had a wonderful bond, and she was glad Scout had her brother. He’d always be her brother even if things between her dad and Danny were complicated right now. She hugged Scout.

Back at the Quartermaines’, Danny told Cody that Drew thought he was protecting Scout, but she was miserable because of him. Life was so good when he, Scout, and their mom lived with Rocco and Dante. It was awesome. Then their mom died and the rest of them stayed together at the Quartermaines’. They were sad, but there were people around them the entire time. It was impossible to be lonely. He still had that thanks to his dad, but Scout was locked away all alone. Cody said he was sorry. He knew how hard it was to worry about someone you loved. Danny said he hated feeling helpless. He wished there was something he could do. Cody said maybe there was.

Alexis said she was sorry she had to ask Scout to keep something from her dad. She thought it best Scout didn’t tell him that Danny was there. Her dad wouldn’t get upset and Danny wouldn’t get in trouble. Scout told Alexis that she wouldn’t say anything, when there was a knock at the door. Alexis told Scout to get her coat, and Willow came in. She asked how it went, and Alexis said, wonderful. Molly and Kristina thanked Willow, and Scout said, it was the best time ever. Willow said she was so glad, and Alexis thanked her again. Willow said she knew how important it was to spend time with family over the holidays and Alexis had been working hard so she could see hers.

Turner told Sonny that there was a huge difference between a teenager making a mistake and a grown man being a career criminal. When you made the choice to repeatedly break the law, it was never a grey area. Sonny said, never say never. She may find herself forced to do the wrong thing for the sake of the people she loved. Turner asked if he could talk himself into anything, and he got up. He said he didn’t have to talk himself into anything, and left.

Kristina said she thought that’s what they needed, and Molly said watching Scout and Danny together. Alexis said that’s why it was important for her to get back in Drew’s good graces. She had to dig her defense out of the hole, not just for Willow’s sake, but Scout’s future depended on it. Molly said she believed in Alexis. If anyone could pull it off, she could. Alexis said, the next time she got a shot in court, she wouldn’t miss.

Jacinda asked if Michael told Tracy that he wasn’t taking advantage of her, and he said he tried. She said, Tracy didn’t buy it, and he said he couldn’t change the circumstances of how they first met. Tracy knew he was paying her to be his alibi, and thought when the trial was over, they would be too, but she was wrong. Jacinda said she wanted to believe that, but felt like she was waiting for the other shoe to drop. He said, there was no shoe and nothing dropping… except this. He handed her a jewelry box and said, a belated Christmas gift. She said she didn’t get… and he said he thought of her soon as he saw it. She opened the box, finding a bracelet inside, and he said it was elegant, beautiful, and it sparkled – just like her. She said it was too much and she couldn’t accept it. She handed it back, and he said if she didn’t like it, they could get something else, but she said it wasn’t that. It was stunning. He said think of it as a token of his genuine and deepening affection, and he put it on her. He said it looked perfect, and she said she’d never seen anything quite like it. And she’d never known anyone quite like him. They kissed.

Jordan asked if Laura was sure she was okay. Something felt off. Laura said she was fine, and Jordan said Laura could talk to her about anything. Laura said if she if she needed to, she would, and Jordan left. Doc came back and said Ace was asleep, and Laura asked if he’d thought about Dublin. He said he was calling first thing in the morning and letting them know he wasn’t coming. He wasn’t leaving her. Not now. She said she understood, but with everything going on with Sidwell, she felt like it was smart to keep their options open.

Marco said Lucas survived the party without blowing up at Willow, but Lucas said he failed at playing nice and putting on a mask. Their encounter disintegrated, like always. He asked Marco not to be a lawyer and wear a mask with him. He wanted all of Marco, even the parts he wasn’t proud of. Marco said that’s what he loved about them. He used to bottle everything up, but with Lucas, he could just be himself. Lucs said, open and honest, and Marco said, always. They hugged.

Drew said he wanted Sidwell to know there was nothing to worry about in respect to the blackmail, and Sidwell said he was going to need Drew in Washington after the first of the year to help with some things. Drew said why should he actually go to work? there was still a lot to do in Port Charles. Don’t be so quick to send him to DC.

Cody said if Danny wanted to see Scout, be smart. What did he do when he hit his head against a wall? Continue banging his head? You look for a door. It was what was called the long con. You played a role. Drew wanted Danny to live by all the rules he made, so Danny was going to make Drew think he was going along with everything, when in reality, he was just waiting for the moment to take what was his.

In the car, Scout thanked Willow for taking her, and Willow said she was happy Scout got to spend time with her family. Scout asked if she could tell Willow something. Willow had to promise not to tell anyone, not even her daddy. Willow promised, and Scout said, Danny was there. Willow said, it must have been fun, and Scout said, it was, but no one could know she saw Danny or he’d get in trouble. Willow said Scout’s secret was safe with her.

Tuesday:

Gio, Emma, and Kai were at Trina’s on New Year’s Eve. Kai toasted, to a fantastic 2026.

Nathan was on his phone outside Lulu’s when she came out to keep watch with him.

Jordan sat back for some TV and champagne, when Curtis came by. He said he was hoping they could usher in the New Year together, but if it was too soon, tell him.

Cody decorated the stables and asked what Outback thought. Outback barked and Cody said he hoped she liked it too. Molly called and he said he had the perfect place for them to ring in the New Year. She said she was so sorry, but she wouldn’t be able to meet up with him.

Bearing champagne, Carly went to see Valentin in the attic. He asked if she was poisoning him, but she said she was fresh out of polonium.

Britt found Jason in the nook, and he asked if she needed something. She said, his company. It was her birthday and the anniversary of her death, and she didn’t want to mark either occasion alone.

Molly told Cody that Turner called her in to produce a plea deal for a case so she could focus solely on Willow’s trial, and she wanted to review it first thing in the morning. Cody said they’d do it when she had time, but she said it wouldn’t be New Year’s Eve. He said they could pretend. All they needed was a bottle of champagne, noisemakers, and plastic glasses that said 2026. She said she wasn’t backing out or hiding behind work, and he told her to do what she had to, and he’d see her in the new year. He told Outback that he guessed it was just him and his princess pie celebrating the New Year, and Outback barked. He said she was right. He was giving up too easily. It was time to turn the night around.

Gio asked what the deal was for tonight, and Emma said maybe Trina called in a favor and got them into the VIP area at The Savoy, but Trina asked if they minded skipping The Savoy. She didn’t need to see either of her parents tonight. Emma stepped away to take a call, and Gio suggested they stay in. They wouldn’t find better company anywhere else.

Jordan said she was glad Curtis came by. She’d just opened champagne. Could she pour him a glass? Curtis said, sure. He’d been on his way to a party at The Savoy and realized the only person he wanted to be around tonight was her. She said she’d debated on reaching out, but with everything he had going on and everything that came out in court, she didn’t want to push it. He said the only person selfish one here was him.

Carly said, after you, and as Valentin took a sip, she said, Jack picked it out. He said their evening ended early, and she said Jack was called away on business. Not that she minded. He asked if she was tired of playing at being interested in Jack or worried she wasn’t playing a role.

Jason said Britt was celebrating the death she’d faked? and she asked where his sense of humor was. Oh wait. He didn’t have one. He said, not when it came to her death. She worked for Sidwell and he knew Sidwell was using her medication as leverage, but she wouldn’t let him help. She said she couldn’t even enjoy the fireworks without a lecture. She’d see him around. She started to leave, but he said, wait.

Lulu told Nathan that she felt like she was taking advantage of the PCPD. She was starting to think Valentin wasn’t coming for Charlotte, but had to admit she was getting used to having him around.

Emma said Cody had an emergency and wanted her to watch Outback so she didn’t freak out over the fireworks, and Trina said, of course (🍷) she should go. Gio said he’d go with her, and Emma said he didn’t have to bail on his New Year’s Eve plans. He said she was his New Year’s Eve plan, and they left. Kai said too bad they had to go, but he and Trina could still go out. Trina asked if they could stay in, and he said he thought she’d never ask.

Curtis told Jordan that he’d been clear about trying again, but didn’t acknowledge how big of an ask it was, since it came with Portia and all the drama a baby could bring. Jordan said she didn’t begrudge him being invested in the well-being of his unborn child. She knew he hoped it was his and she wanted him to be able to raise the baby. He said he wished it was with her.

Valentin told Carly that it could be difficult to differentiate between what was pretend and what was real. It had happened to him, and he had decades of training and experience. She said she didn’t need training. Her love for her daughter made her capable of anything. He said they had that in common. That’s why she brought Charlotte to him. She said she’d also done it for Charlotte. Charlotte put on a brave face, but she was still a young girl who missed her dad and she deserved to see him.

Lulu said having Nathan here was helping her. She tried to be a chill mom, but knew her kids would say she was overprotective. Nathan said she’d only been back for a year. She’d lost out on a lot of things. Maybe she was scared of losing something else.

Cody told Emma and Gio that he had a personal emergency. He’d had a date with Molly and she’d had to cancel, but he was bringing the party to her. There were champagne and snacks in the fridge. Help themselves. He left, and Emma said it looked like they had the place to themselves. How did Gio want to ring in the New Year?

Jason asked what Britt had in mind for tonight, and she said she thought they could go to The Savoy and dance a bit. He said she’d be in debt for life, and she said, or they could go to the Brown Dog and have a couple of beers. Whatever it was, fun was the destination. She didn’t care where they went to get it. He’d covered her tab at Café Cherie, and she hadn’t properly thanked him. Thank you. Jason said she was welcome, and she said she’d thought they were good. He said they were. He just didn’t think he could be the company she needed tonight.

Valentin said he appreciated the risk Carly took, since the authorities were looking for him and she also had a relationship with Lulu. Carly said Lulu would never speak to her again. Hiding him could land her in prison, so he couldn’t screw this up. They had to make this work. Jack had to go down.

Lulu said she and Nathan were in an exclusive club. She’d missed out on four years, then he stole her thunder by raising her seven. Nathan said, it wasn’t on purpose, and asked if it got easier finding your footing after seeing everyone move on without you. She said ask her in another year. It did, but she didn’t think anyone would say you could slip in seamlessly. She’d managed to find things to ground her – her mom, work, having her kids close. And having a friend always helped.

Emma said they should have brought the digeridoo. It was cooler than a noisemaker. Gio said her grandfather gave it to her, but she said she thought he’d get more use out of it when she taught him to play. Speaking of making music, what about the other instrument he got for Christmas?

Molly wondered where the gods of legal precedent were when she needed them, when Cody knocked at the door and said, special delivery for ADA Lansing-Davis. She couldn’t join him on New Year’s Eve, so he figured he’d bring it to her. Feel free to tell him to get lost. She said, welcome to her legal lair. There was a leak in her office, so she was using Turner’s. He asked if there was anything he could do to help, and she said if he really wanted to save New Year’s Eve, she had an idea.

Jordan said she went in with her eyes wide open when Curtis assumed the baby was his, and she’d be by his side regardless. He said he regretted how he treated her when they were married. He was rigid, harsh, and unforgiving when he thought she was lying and he was sorry. He didn’t hire Selina because of her. He didn’t want to risk any future they might have. They’d wanted to take it slow, but what happened in the courtroom crystalized everything. There was no possibility of him going back to a future without her and he didn’t want to wait to get it started. She said neither did she, and they kissed.

Britt told Jason that she’d see if she could find Brad. He’d go to a club with her and get hammered or sit watching TV and drinking champagne. Whatever. He should have been her first stop. Jason said he cared about her and wanted her to be okay. Could she not see that?

Valentin said he and Carly had the same goal. Jack needed to go. Carly was concerned she’d be clearing a path for him to take Charlotte and disappear, and she didn’t want to do that to Lulu. He said he wanted Charlotte back in his life, but her fears were unfounded, and she said it wouldn’t get easier just because Jack was gone. He said it would be simpler. He’d get exonerated and have a life he could allow Charlotte to be in. For her safety, Charlotte needed to be in Port Charles and she needed Lulu. He had no intention of taking Charlotte from her mother.

Nathan said he noticed Lulu didn’t mention Dante in the things that grounded her, and she said Dante was an important part of her life. He was Rocco’s father, and she loved him and relied on him for a lot, but Dante’s whole foundation shifted when she was gone. He fell in love with Sam and they got engaged. She didn’t know if she could lean on him the way she once did.

Cody read Molly legal precedents, and she said she was almost done. He said, until 1975, it was perfectly legal to streak in Port Charles. He’d always wondered what it was like to run naked around Rice Plaza. She said, cold. She was done after a quick email to Turner and attaching the plea deal. If Turner didn’t like it, she could polish it herself… Sent. Cody said, time to celebrate.

Gio told Emma that it meant a lot that Ned and Sonny came together to give him something so special, and it made Tracy happy. She was having a hard time since it was the first Christmas without Monica. Emma asked if playing again made him happy, but he said, hardly. She said, because he felt pressure to play? but he said, no. Playing was great, but he felt so much distance between the person he’d been and who he was now. He didn’t know what person the violin was part of.

Jordan and Curtis got busy, and there was a song part.

Nathan said, if it was up to Dante, he’d be the one here, and Lulu said, true. He’d do anything to protect her kids. That’s where their situations were different. Nathan was missing a key piece of his life. He said, Maxie, and she said Maxie was going to wake up. He said there was no way to know how she’d feel or if they fit in each other’s lives. She’d made a life with Spinelli, and they had a family. Lulu said they loved each other, and Nathan said he couldn’t assume she’d give that up even if he was her husband.

Valentin said Carly didn’t trust him, did she? and she said, no, but she believed he loved Charlotte. So she had to believe he wanted what was best for her. She thought he knew it was best for Charlotte to be in Port Charles with her mother. He said she was one of the few who talked to him like a parent, and she said, as opposed to what? A criminal? She was used to hanging out with criminals and even criminals could love their children. From what she’d seen, Charlotte loved him and would benefit from having him in her life.

Britt said it wasn’t up to Jason to make things okay for her. It was a full-time job with irregular hours and no overtime. She was a trainwreck. Jason said he didn’t see her that way, and she said she knew he didn’t agree with all her choices. If there was something she needed to get out of, it was up to her to do it on her own. He said she didn’t have to. He could help. He wanted to help. She said maybe that was the sign of a really great friend. They disapprove of everything you do and still come through for you.

Kai asked what Trina wanted to pour herself into in 2026, and she said it always went back to art. She was about to graduate, and she was excited about what was next. Since they were on the subject, she wanted to show him her favorite piece of art.

Emma said she knew Gio thought the music came from his mom, but it came from that side of her in him. If he rediscovered it or never played again, he was still an incredible person. He asked how she always made him feel like he could do anything.

Cody put a Happy New Year hat on Molly and said Outback made him promise to give her this one, and she said Outback had good taste. He’d risked showing up. What if she’d turned him away? He said it would have been worth the trip to wish her a Happy New Year in person. It was nice to see her in her element. It blew him away how smart she was. She said she knew he’d made plans and hoped he hadn’t lost any money, but he said he decorated the stables and figured they’d dance. It beat the Brown Dog Bar. Molly said they could dance there, and he said, amongst the legal books, sticky notes, and a whiff of desperation? She said, yes, and he put on some music and they danced.

Lulu told Nathan that they’d both missed out on so much. Maybe it wasn’t about holding on tightly to the past. Maybe it was about them focusing on and prioritizing what they were grateful for. Nathan said he was grateful for James, his mother and sisters, and his badge. Lulu said she was grateful for her mom, her kids, and her work, and he said he also had her. She said, and she had him, when the fireworks started.

Valentin told Carly that he wasn’t spending New Year’s in Steinmauer. He wasn’t alone and locked up. He could see the sky. Carly said she hoped he was enjoying her luxurious accommodations in the attic, and he said he was watching the fireworks a few miles from his daughter. He got to hug Charlotte because of her. He owed her and paid his debts because he was a Lannister. She said she was running tab, told him, Happy New Year, and left.

Trina said she found it, and Kai said she owned her favorite piece? She said, it was a gift, and showed him a framed photo of them standing next to his artwork. He said, she liked it that much? and she said she did. It reminded her of him. She took down when they broke up, but couldn’t throw it away. Let’s put it back up together. He said he’d love to… after, and they kissed.

Emma said she’d report back to Cody that Outback handled the fireworks fine. They’d be right outside. She and Gio went out, and she said it was freezing. He put his arms around her and said, better? She said, much. The club would have been fun, but she thought this was the perfect way to ring in the New Year. He said, perfect, and they kissed.  

Auld Lang Syne played over the following scenes.

Curtis and Jordan looked out the window, and Curtis said, great harbor view. She said it didn’t get better than this. The only thing she was afraid of was them coming together only to lose each other again. Portia’s baby could still be his. He said, if it was, he’d be the most devoted father he could be and wanted her to be part of the baby’s life. He didn’t want to lose this either. She said they couldn’t. Not again. He put his arms around her, and they watched the fireworks.

Britt said another reason she came by was because in the chaos that was her life, the person she most wanted to be around was Jason. When she was with him, her life didn’t feel so chaotic. He touched her face, said, Happy Birthday, and kissed her. (Finally. Thank you.)

Cody and Molly danced, and she asked if the fireworks were getting louder. He said it might be his heart and they kissed. Molly started to take his shirt off, and he said it was her boss’s office. They couldn’t do this here. She said they could. It was New Year’s Eve.

Deck the Halls played over the yearly extended credits.

Wednesday:

No soap, football.

Thursday:

Tony Geary’s final episode from July 27, 2015.

🫔 Friday’s Half-Eaten Enchilada…

Jordan wakes up with Curtis, and he says, Happy New Year. She says, it’s already off to a pretty good start.

At the stables, Molly comes downstairs wearing Cody’s shirt, and Cody asks if she wants some pancakes. He made way too many. She says he had her at pancakes and hopes he doesn’t mind that she borrowed some of his things. He says she looks better in them, and they kiss.

Laura tells Charlotte that Ace’s nanny called in sick. She wouldn’t have called, but she has someone coming for a meeting and won’t be able to keep an eye on Ace. Charlotte says she thought Laura would have today off, but Laura says, apparently some things can’t wait. She doesn’t know how long she’ll be and can’t look after him until it’s over. Charlotte says, no problem. How about if they get out of Laura’s hair and she takes Ace to the park? Unless Laura wants her to stay home because she’s worried about Charlotte’s father.

At Bobbie’s, Sidwell thanks Marco for tearing himself away from the office… on a holiday, and Marco says, billable hours are billable hours. What’s so urgent? Sidwell says, Alexis’s last day in court was a disaster, to put it mildly, and Marco says, Alexis is a brilliant attorney. He’s sure she’ll salvage the case. Sidwell wonders if she can mitigate the damage done, or is Willow going to prison?

Drew says, Tracy’s movements the night of the shooting were on the footage that was tampered with, and Turner asks if he thinks it was anyone in the department. He says he guesses they can’t rule it out. How bad was it for the case? She says, losing the footage was a blow, but by the time they adjourned, Alexis was on the ropes. He says, Alexis will bounce back and hit back harder, and she says, the PCPD started the investigation with Willow and will have to defend their every action.

Sonny thanks Michael for coming over and says he ran into Turner. There’s something about the trial he thinks Michael should know.

Alexis asks Suzanne to do her a favor. Organize the exhibits and submit a new witness list for the prosecution. Suzanne asks if Alexis is changing her strategy, and Alexis says she is. She’s going after a person who’s more suspicious than Willow – Michael Corinthos. Rather than present a broad array of suspects, she’s going to focus on one simple, plausible scenario. Suzanne says, the last one didn’t go as Alexis had hoped, but Alexis says, reasonable doubt is reasonable doubt. Suzanne says, there’s a long list of suspects, and Alexis says, true, but presenting several at once might be too confusing for the jury. It’s better to present one and give them a clear view of what happened at Drew’s house. Suzanne says, it makes sense, but she has to ask. Is Alexis taking her lead from the anonymous letter? Alexis says, of course (🍷) not. It’s unsubstantiated. But she’s going to do everything in her power to prove what’s in the letter is in fact true.

Turner says Dante will have to defend the investigation, and he says they followed the evidence. It took them a lot of places, but ultimately pointed at Willow and they built a strong case. She says, a strong, circumstantial one, and he says, the phone records showing Willow’s cell pinging off a tower near Drew’s house isn’t nothing. It was the one piece Anna was missing from the traffic cam footage. Turner says, the footage is missing too. They had it and know Willow was in the vicinity, but the jury doesn’t know, and now the footage is gone. They have to proceed like they never had it to begin with. Alexis will use evidence to present doubt that Willow is the shooter. That means they’ll look for someone else to pin it on. He says, like Portia. That didn’t work out too well. She says, Alexis will present another suspect, and she doesn’t want to be blindsided with someone they’ve cleared who’s still viable. Dante says, like Michael? and she says she also wants to know what Curtis was doing with Selina Wu at the club.

Jordan says she knows they should take it day by day, and Curtis says, okay. She says, but she doesn’t want to be one of those couples who get back together and make the same mistakes, and he says he was thinking the same thing. He can’t believe they were ever apart. How did they manage to mess up something so good? She says, there were a lot of different reasons. In order to make it work, their relationship has to be a priority from the beginning, except for Trina. He says, both can be a priority. This time they’re going to do it right.

Marco tells Sidwell, Alexis is an excellent attorney, and Drew has given her more than enough motivation to win. What happened with Portia was a rare misstep. Sidwell says he hopes Marco is right, If Willow is convicted, Drew will be useless to him on the Hill and there will be no chance of his reelection. Marco says, what if he’s impeached? He could be convicted of blackmail. Sidwell says, that would be worse. He’d have to find a new ally in Washington, so their import business remains intact. Fortunately, he has the local politicos where he wants them. Marco says, Mayor Collins did a great job at the press conference announcing the sale of the piers, and Sidwell says, she’s a resourceful, determined woman who doesn’t enjoy being told what to do. Marco asks what Sidwell is going to do, and Sidwell says, never let her forget what she stands to lose.

Charlotte tells Laura that Ace will be perfectly safe with her. She promises. There’s a uniformed cop tailing her, not to mention the WSB surveillance, if Laura is worried about her running off with her dad while she’s with Ace. Laura said, of course (🍷) not. She trusts Charlotte. If she didn’t, she wouldn’t have asked her at all. Sit with her a minute now. They sit down, and Laura says she doesn’t think Charlotte’s dad would try to approach her in broad daylight anyway. Charlotte says she keeps telling everyone that she doesn’t think he’ll try to see her at all, but no one wants to hear it, and Laura says, that’s not because they don’t respect what she’s saying. They just respect her father’s ingenuity more. He has a history here and people are being hyper-vigilant. Charlotte says, no one wants her to be snatched on their watch, but Laura says she doesn’t think that’s the reason they’re worried. To be frank, Ace is a handful. Charlotte says, so Laura trusts her. Ace on the other hand… Laura says, Ace would gladly walk into a pack of coyotes… or traffic. She doesn’t want Charlotte to sign up for more than she bargained for. Ace would be happy in his room. Charlotte says, it’s a nice day. She can wear the chaos machine out so he’s too tired to drive Laura crazy. Laura says her grandson is pure joy all the time, and Charlotte says she promises to keep a close eye on him. Laura says, okay, and Charlotte says, she won’t regret it. Laura says she knows she won’t and thanks Charlotte for being a real lifesaver.

Kristina walks into Alexis’s and says she can’t find her charger. Has anyone seen it? The living room is empty, and she sees Alexis’s paperwork on the coffee table. She picks up a binder and looks in it. Alexis comes in and asks what she’s doing, and Kristina says, what the hell? Alexis asks if Kristina didn’t know that’s private, but Kristina says she doesn’t care. Alexis is framing her brother for something he didn’t do.

Cody says he hopes Molly doesn’t think he’s a bad influence, and she asks why she would think that. He says, because of what happened last night, but she says, no regrets. Her sister told her that she needs to start living her life, and last night, she thinks she finally did. He says he’s glad to help. He can’t believe how lucky he was. It was a long shot that she wanted to come back here. She says she didn’t want the night to end. She didn’t want the morning to end either. He says, it doesn’t have to. They can spend the day together, go riding, watch a movie. Did they ever make a sequel to Titanic? She says, no, but they did make a movie where they go down to the wreckage and raise it. She was thinking they could do something else. They kiss and he picks her up in his arms. As he’s about to take her upstairs, Felicia and James walk in. James asks why Cody is carrying Molly. Is she hurt?

Suzanne brings Turner the revised witness list, and Turner tells Dante to take a look at it and tell her what he thinks Alexis is up to.

Michael asks, since when does Sonny hang out with the ADA? and Sonny says he was supposed to meet Brick at Café Cherie, but at the last minute, Brick canceled. He saw Justine having dinner alone and thought he’d say hi. Michael says, they’re on a first name basis? and Sonny says he’s cultivating her friendship. He thought it could be useful. Michael says, to her or him? and Sonny says, friendship goes both ways. Don’t get him wrong. He thinks Turner likes him a little bit, but she wouldn’t hesitate to take him down. That woman does not take her eye off the ball. Michael asks if the ball is Sonny or him, and Sonny says, in general, he is, but today… Did Michael get subpoenaed? Michael says he’s already on the witness list, and Sonny says, that means he’ll be in between two incredible lawyers who will use his testimony to their advantage. He’ll be a target to both of them.

Kristina says, it’s one thing to have a theory about a suspect, and another to actively build a case against them, and Alexis says, aside from everything else, it’s her fiduciary duty to defend Willow to the best of her ability. What does it look like to Kristina? Kristina says, it looks like she’s preparing to falsely accuse Michael of shooting Drew, and Alexis says, give her an alibi she halfway believes. She can’t investigate every aspect of the case, but she’s looked at all the evidence and firmly believes if the police had done their job, Michael would be on trial, not Willow.

Jordan and Curtis go into Bobbie’s, and Jordan tells Sidwell and Marco, Happy New Year. They sit at another table, when Sidwell’s phone rings. He tells Marco that he’ll take the call outside.

Curtis says, that’s it? She says Happy New Year and goes on her way? She doesn’t have to stop and make nice? Jordan says, Sidwell isn’t like that. If he needed to talk to her, they’d be talking. Otherwise, he respects her personal life. Curtis asks if she’s ever had a boss that was like that before now, and she says, never. It’s funny. In many ways, Sidwell is a great boss. The work is engaging, challenging, and exciting. Don’t get her wrong. She still has her own agenda. He says, good to know, and she says, other than her suspicions about his underlying criminality, it’s the best job she’s ever had. He says he agrees that they should put their relationship first, but regarding Sidwell, she doesn’t have to tell him everything. But if she needs him, he’s here. She says she appreciates that. In case he was wondering, she knows her job with Sidwell has to end at some point, but until then, she’s gonna enjoy it… Right up until the moment she takes him down.

There’s a knock at the door and Laura opens it. Boyle says, madam mayor, and she slams the door in his face. She takes a deep breath, opens it again, and says, what? He thanks her for the invitation, and she tells him, shut up and get in. She doesn’t want anyone to think they’re friends. He comes inside and says, aren’t they friends of a sort? but she says, no. He says he knows she’s a busy woman, so he’ll make it brief. She says she is busy, so spit it out. What does Sidwell want now?

Cody puts Molly down, and James says, she doesn’t seem hurt. Molly says, Cody was carrying her because she thought she saw a mouse, and Cody says, it’s cool to them, but not to… He nods in Molly’s direction, and James says he’s got it. Cody asks if James’s lesson isn’t tomorrow, and Felicia says, it was, but they moved it to work around James’s school schedule. Cody says, they did, and Felicia says, James is really excited to use his new saddle. James says, Santa brought it, and Felicia says, with a little help from a special elf. She looks at Molly, who smiles, and James says, grandma and Grandpa Mac let him stay up late so he could see the fireworks. Felicia says she can bring James back another time, but James says, no. Molly says, absolutely not. James needs to try out his saddle, and she should go see her mom. Felicia says, if she’s sure, and Molly says, totally. Felicia says she’ll be back in an hour, and James asks if he can’t stay longer. Felicia says, they’ll see how the morning shakes out, and tells Molly that it’s nice to see her. Felicia leaves and James says he’s ready for his lesson now.

Sonny says, Alexis and Turner are going to set Michael up to say something he regrets, and Michael says he knows Alexis will try and make the case about another suspect. She already has, but after what happened with Portia, he’s not worried. Sonny says, when Turner cross-examines him, she’ll use him to testify about Willow’s questionable judgement. Then she’ll make him say all the mistakes Willow’s done in front of the jury and give him an opening to bury Willow. Michael asks, how is that bad? and Sonny says, it’s worse than bad. She’ll trap him on the stand in front of a jury and have him say how bad Willow is as a mother and how she’s capable of violence. It will all be a matter of public record. Michael says, Willow deserves it, but Sonny says, not the kids. If he does something like that, at some point, Wiley and Amelia will know what he thinks about their mother and it’s going to stay with them for the rest of their lives.

Kristina asks if Alexis is telling her that whatever’s in the file points to Michael shooting Drew instead of Willow, but Alexis says she doesn’t have to prove Willow didn’t shoot Drew. She just has to provide reasonable doubt and there’s plenty of it. Kristina says, so in her mind, she has no doubt Michael did it, but Alexis says, Michael’s not on trial. If she had her way… One reason she believes it’s Michael is that he was at Drew’s house the night he was shot. Tracy Quartermaine saw him. Kristina says she saw the anonymous note. Alexis has got to be kidding. They may as well have cut words out of a magazine. Alexis says, that’s why she’s not submitting it as evidence, and Kristina says, anyone could have sent it. Did Alexis have it checked for fingerprints? Drew’s are probably all over it. He hates Michael so much. It’s not enough that Willow goes free. He wants to make sure Michael pays for Willow’s crime and he’s using Alexis to make sure that happens.

Laura says, Sidwell expects to build multiple helipads on Spoon Island. Multiple as in plural. She expects there will be noise violations. Boyle says, Sidwell wants them at the piers as well. What does she want him to tell the boss? She’ll take care of it, or instead, stand in the way of progress and commerce? Laura says, the boss makes him sound like a dime store hood, which is something he would be. Boyle says, it’s not him, it’s Sidwell, and she says she’s not giving into him. He says, Sidwell will say she’s against a thriving economy, but she says, he doesn’t care about a thriving economy. He cares that he’s not caught in traffic on his way to the airport. Boyle says, time is money, and she says, let him work remotely. He can do that. He’ll never have to leave Spoon Island. He says, Sidwell won’t go for that. He wants to land his privately owned helicopter on his own helipads. She says, on a public waterfront, because he can’t be bothered to take the launch. It’s not fair to the people of Port Charles. He says, that’s why she needs to sell it to them, and she says, if she refuses? He says, take his advice. Give Sidwell what he wants. She doesn’t want to know what he’s like when you don’t.  

Outside Bobbie’s, Sidwell sees Charlotte with Ace and says, hello. Charlotte asks if she knows him, and he says, not yet, but he knows her grandmother. She must be Charlotte Cassadine. And he believes this handsome young fellow is Ace, is he not? Sidwell chuckles and Ace moves closer to Charlotte.

Dante says, Alexis is going to suggest the PCPD focused on Willow Tate prematurely and chose not pursue equally viable suspects who were right in front of them. She’ll say it was biased and arbitrary, not just because Michael is Willow’s ex, but because Michael is a viable suspect himself. She’ll say he chose not to pursue it because Michael is his brother. Turner says she would. She’s not worried. He knows how to handle himself. He’s consistent, methodical, and transparent. Just tell the truth. He says, that was the plan, and she says, stick to the facts. Be himself. They jury will love him. He says, Alexis will come at him with everything she’s got, and Turner says she’ll object if it’s necessary, but she doubts it will be. Alexis dug her own grave and Willow’s along with it.

Alexis says she didn’t realize her skills as an attorney registered so low with Kristina, that Kristina would think she’d build a case based on an anonymous letter without evidence to back it up. Kristina says, there are other viable suspects, and Alexis says, Portia turned into a fiasco. She needs to build the strongest case and provide reasonable doubt for Willow. That’s her duty. Not just for her, but for Scout and Sam.

Sonny says, if Michael lashes out on the stand about Willow, sooner or later, Wiley and Amelia will find out what their father said, and Michael says, it’s too late. They lived with it. They know she chose Drew over them. Drew used his son against him twice. Willow doesn’t care how the kids feel. She married the man and he has to make sure she’s not in the kids’ life. They have him and need to know he’s not looking the other way. They need to know the truth about their mom, that she put her needs over theirs. They need to know he’d do anything to protect them. Sonny says, anything?

Boyle tells Laura, don’t shoot the messenger. It’s his district. He lives there and his constituents live there. Laura says, on paper. He only cares about one constituent. He says, does he want to live with the constant noise and listening to them flying? and she says, what about his other constituents? What is he going to tell them? He says, in public, he’ll be vehemently opposed. He’ll say, oh my goodness. Woe is me. I wish there was something I could do, but Mayor Collins is much too powerful. She says, disgusting. Is this really what he wants? To be Sidwell’s messenger boy, his bootlicker? He must have cared about people at some point to have gone into politics. He says, not everyone is like her. She really is remarkable for her and her ethics to last that long. She says, he makes it sound like a dirty word. He says, just an inconvenience. Don’t make it so hard. From here on out, she needs to be more selfish and look out for herself. She says, he’s an expert on that, and he says, her being her, she can do some good when she can, which won’t be often, but knowing her, she’ll manage. She thanks him for his faith in her, and he says he has faith in Sidwell’s ability to get what he wants. And if she gives him what he wants, Sidwell can be the best friend she’s ever had.

Charlotte asks if Sidwell still keeps horses at Windymere, when Marco comes out. Sidwell introduces Marco to Charlotte, and Marco asks, who’s this? referring to Ace. Sidwell says, this is Ace, and Marco says, nice to meet him. Sidwell says, Charlotte lived at Windymere with her father, and Marco says, it must have been spooky living there. Charlotte says, it was, but she prefers spooky, and Sidwell says, the house has a complicated history. It’s his understanding that if Charlotte’s Uncle Nikolas wasn’t presumed dead, it wouldn’t be his house, but would belong to Ace. Charlotte says they should go now, and Sidwell says he thinks the lost inheritance is a touchy subject. Charlotte says, Ace is ready for his nap. She was going to take him to Bobbie’s for a cookie, but she thinks he should go home. Sidwell says, give his regards to the mayor and keep an eye on Ace. Children this age are reckless. They’re curious explorers and trusting. If you turn for a second, they can be gone. Charlotte says, thanks for the tip, but that’s not gonna happen, and she and Ace leave.

Turner tells Dante, Alexis did herself no favor, showing the jury that she was willing to throw an innocent woman to the wolves on the off chance of saving her client. It looked desperate. The jury won’t like her forcing Dr. Robinson to confess such a profoundly personal thing on the stand, something that has no bearing on the case. Dante says he heard about it. It sounded rough. She says she felt bad for Portia and wonders why Alexis thought it would work in her favor, and he says he thinks the jury felt bad for Willow. She tells him, it’s hard to say. Alexis will never put her on the stand. Willow would never hold up under a cross-examination. She’s not a defendant you’d want to testify. On the other hand, if she doesn’t, it might make her suspicious. He says, what about a cop whose brother of the defendant’s ex? and she tells him, like she said, he’s professional and likeable. Believe her, he’s got this. He says he appreciates her faith in him. He’s going to work to keep earning it. He has a question though. Is she prosecuting this case because of Anna’s investigation or does she think Willow is guilty?

Sidwell says, Charlotte is a charming girl and potentially very useful, and Marco says, how so? Sidwell says, her father is Valentin Cassadine. Valentin Cassadine is a man of many talents. They could use someone like him in their current project. Marco says, if he wasn’t number one on the WSB’s wanted list, and Sidwell says, he may be in the wind, but his daughter is in Port Charles. He can’t be far.

Curtis tells Jordan, looking back on their marriage, there were multiple missed opportunities. So many times where they almost connected, but for whatever reason, didn’t. She says, she had her job and her secrets, and he had his. They were both living in worlds they couldn’t share with each other. She doesn’t want that to happen again. He says, neither does he. There are things she can’t tell him and he’s sure there will be things he can’t tell her. Has the situation really changed?

Charlotte tells Laura that she and Ace went to the park. She was going to take him to Bobbie’s to get a cookie, but he was pre-nap grumpy. How was her meeting? Laura says, better than she would have thought, but still agonizing. It helps to know Charlotte and Ace had fun. Did they? Charlotte says, yes, they did, and Laura says, Ace looks tired. She should probably get him to bed. Charlotte says she can do it if Laura wants, and Laura says, that would be great. Charlotte tells Ace, it’s just you and me… Oh, she forgot. She ran into Mr. Sidwell. He told her to give Laura his regards. She takes Ace to his room and Laura looks distressed.

Cody asks, how are the flapjacks? and James says, delicious. He asks why Molly was wearing Cody’s shirt, and Molly says she was cold. Cody is a good guy and let her borrow his shirt. On the side, she thanks Cody for last night. She had a lot of fun. He says him too. They should do it again sometime. She says, definitely, and he says he’ll give her a call. James asks if Molly is Cody’s girlfriend, and Cody says, yes, but Molly says, no. They look at each other.

Turner says it doesn’t matter what she believes. Dante is a cop with integrity and she’s an officer of the court. They both follow the letter of the law. It’s her responsibility to present the facts in the best possible way she can, hoping that the truth comes out. In the meantime, Alexis will defend Willow to the best of her ability. Both sides will have their say, then they’ll let the jury decide.  

Michael says, of course (🍷) he’d do anything for his kids. He knows what Sonny is thinking. Sonny says, what’s that? and Michael says, that he could have taken Edward’s gun at any time. He could have shot Drew and paid Jacinda for an alibi. Wiped the gun clean and waited for the perfect opportunity to pin Drew’s shooting on Willow, which would be enough to make sure she was out of the picture. Then the final nail in the coffin. He gets up on the stand and makes sure the jury knows what Willow is capable of. She would be put away for good and maybe then the kids would be safe. Sonny asks what Michael is telling him, and Michael says, when he finally gets on the stand, everything he says will be for the benefit of his children.

Alexis tells Kristina that they can’t see Scout if she doesn’t get Willow exonerated, and that little girl needs them. They have to protect her. Kristina says, of course (🍷), but why does that mean sacrificing her brother? Alexis says she knows Kristina loves her brother and is loyal to him, but he’s a grown-up and able to take care of himself. Kristina says, he didn’t do it, and Alexis says, they don’t know that. If Kristina is thinking of warning her brother about the new direction she’s taking, she wants her to remember Scout’s well-being is at stake. She’s just a little girl and can’t defend herself, but Michael is a grown man and capable of handling this. He’s going to have to.

Curtis says, so if he and Jordan are right back where they started, how has it changed where they’re headed? Jordan says, how about this? She promises to be as open as she can about work. He says, so does he. In fact, he promises right here and now, they’ll always have difficult conversations that they’d rather avoid, because whatever this is that’s happening between them is the most important thing.

Sidwell says, Charlotte could be very useful in bringing Valentin on board, and Marco says, now he gets why Sidwell turned on the charm. Sidwell says he’s a charming fellow, and Marco says, he can be and he was in the moment he made a veiled threat. Sidwell says, it was hardly a threat. He just sent Mayor Collins a message.

Laura thanks Charlotte for everything she’s done, and Charlotte says, anytime. Ace is the cutest monster ever. Laura says she has to ask. Does Charlotte know Jenz Sidwell? Charlotte says, no. He introduced himself. They mostly talked about Windymere. He was nice, except… Laura says, except what? and Charlotte says, after he told her to send Laura his regards, he told her to keep an eye on Ace. He said children were reckless at that age. You could look away and in an instant they were gone. Laura sits down hard on the sofa.  

On Monday, Portia asks Curtis to please give her a little bit more time; Laura asks Doc to get Ace out of harm’s way; Kristina tells Jacinda that she has to get out of town immediately; and Valentin wonders what someone is doing here.

🧼 All the Soap News Fit to Print…

No surprise here.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/what-was-the-best-soap-of-2025-find-out-which-show-fans-picked-gh-yr-btg-days-or-bb/

But isn’t a snowman made of sand a sandman? Just asking.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospitals-adrian-anchondo-confirms-romance-with-days-of-our-lives-star-colton-little/

A trip down Luke Memory Lane.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/photos/remembering-general-hospital-star-anthony-geary-1947-2005-his-life-in-photos-and-rare-quotes/

Stars who got their start on soaps.

https://extratv.com/photos/image_jpg_20100105_6a0dc430b95a5ecaa804e02330515779/

Roll call of the soap dead for 2025.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/in-loving-memory-the-beloved-soap-actors-who-have-passed-away-in-2025/

💉 A Dose Of Reality…

Below Deck Mediterranean

Cathy’s stepfather passed away, it was the anniversary of V’s boyfriend’s death and also her birthday, as well as V’s return to the yacht after recovering from whatever it was she had. Nathan kept trying to win Gael back and Eyebrows Joe and Kizzi mourned their lack of restraint while V was off the boat. Well, Joe did anyway, literally sobbing during his interview. It was an emotional roller coaster for the crew, but the saddest thing of all was the tip of $16K, or $1400 each – from charter guests who left a poopie in the shower. In. The. Shower. Ugh.

Real Housewives of Salt Lake City

Aren’t these people ever embarrassed? They were kicked out of both a spa and restaurant due to loud arguing. Lisa whined about having to dress up, except for the time they all dressed like her. Brittani was tired of walking on eggshells around Meredith, and it was pretty much agreed that Meredith was spiraling. Or as Mary put it, Meredith was having too many highs, too many lows, too many mediums. The pattern was patterning.

Vanderpump Rules

This show is barely watchable for me. The main thing I got out of this week’s episode was, what the hell is wrong with Natalie? If she’s worried about being called a psychotic bitch, she should stop acting like one.

Random Reality Items

Is Vicki replacing Fancy Pants? Is Fancy Pants moving to RHOBH? Stay tuned.

This show definitely looks promising, and I’m thrilled that MJ and Reza have made up.

How can a reality show called Deplorable possibly miss?

Glad to hear she found her person. She dodged a bullet with Craig.

https://extratv.com/2025/12/29/southern-charm-s-naomie-olindo-and-billy-haire-engaged/

👀 Last Weekend’s Watch…

Breakdown: 1975. Netflix. There isn’t a lot to say about this documentary about – you guessed it – 1975. While this review wasn’t exactly stellar, I enjoy a retrospective, especially seeing the films that came out during that time period and interviews with those who were there. This was a fast hour and a half of something I didn’t have to think too hard about. The perfect watch for New Year’s Day.

https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/breakdown-1975-netflix-documentary-film-review-2025

Girl You Know It’s True. Peacock, Tubi. A docudrama about Fab and Rob, the duo who were Milli Vanilli. Mentored and produced by Frank Farian – also of Boney M fame – the pair lip-synced their way to the top of the charts. After that, it just gets sad. Another relatively mindless watch, yet not a waste of time.

Bugonia. Peacock. I don’t know if I would have shaved my head to see it for free in the theatre, but I was pretty impressed. I’d avoided this film for a while, since aliens aren’t my thing, but I enjoyed the hell out of it. An amateur beekeeper and alien nerd kidnaps a CEO, believing she’s an alien out to destroy us. A clever script, some great acting, and a score that includes Green Day’s Basket Case, this film is amusing, violent, and poignant. I absolutely loved all the twists and turns where I wondered, is she or isn’t she? Something different and well worth your time.

https://www.cbr.com/emma-stone-bugonia-sci-fi-peacock-success-december-2025/

One thing I know from people who have shaved their heads, their hair usually grows back beautifully. It’s like a fresh start.

https://people.com/emma-stone-one-condition-shaving-head-bugonia-exclusive-11854042

Stranger Things Finale. Netflix. I came late to the party on this one after years of friends insisting I watch it. While I enjoyed it and I’ll miss it, I was never all that invested in the characters, so I was a bit double-minded about the finale. The final battle was amazing, but there were a lot of trips down Memory Lane and wrapping-things-up conversations that I thought dragged down the pace. However, I do appreciate that it was for the benefit of hardcore fans. Farewell, Hawkins. It’s been real. Or unreal, depending on whether you’re in the Upside Down or not.  

https://ew.com/how-stranger-things-ends-character-fates-11877953

https://ew.com/stranger-things-cast-watch-series-finale-together-emotional-experience-11878197

🎆 Celebrate Good Times, Come On…

Celebrities ringing in the New Year.

https://extratv.com/photos/image_jpg_20260101_d3c0806e136f485ab0fcc98d73c01d7e/

All around the world.

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/new-year-2026-celebrations-around-world-photos-fireworks/

What it’s really like in Times Square. I’ve never gone there on New Year’s Eve, but I had a roommate who went once. She said not only did she get beer spilled on her and peed on, when the crowd moved, you moved. No thank you.

https://people.com/adult-diapers-19-hour-waits-what-its-really-like-celebrating-new-years-eve-in-times-square-11877868

🥀 Roll Call Of the Dead…

Celebrities we lost in 2025.

🐕 The Latest On Planet Pooch…

🐾 Joining the club.

https://people.com/american-kennel-club-adds-3-new-dog-breeds-brings-total-breeds-to-205-11877348

🐩 I’ll bet he doesn’t look like that lounging around at home.

https://people.com/jj-lhasa-apso-wins-best-in-show-at-2025-akc-national-championship-11876779

🎉 Dogs ushering in the New Year.

https://moderndogmagazine.com/articles/dogs-who-are-so-ready-to-celebrate-new-years-eve/

🐶 I don’t think that Pug is too happy about the pantyhose though.

https://www.rover.com/blog/new-years-looks-dog/

🪅 Tips for next year’s celebration. Or have one now. Your dog doesn’t know it’s not New Year’s Eve.

https://www.dailypaws.com/living-with-pets/holidays/pet-parties/new-years-eve-party-for-dogs

📡 Quotes of the Week

You need to be aware of what others are doing, applaud their efforts, acknowledge their successes, and encourage them in their pursuits. When we all help one another, everybody wins. – Jim Stovall

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

I think the only answer is to live life to the fullest while you can and collect memories like fools collect money. Because in the end, that’s all you have – happy memories. – Sarah Strohmeyer

When we talk about understanding, surely it takes place only when the mind listens completely – the mind being your heart, your nerves, your ears – when you give your whole attention to it.Jiddu Krishnamurti (So when you say, I understand, make sure you do.)

Happiness is for dogs and Americans. – Dr. Liesl Obrecht (Kathleen Gati), General Hospital

Persons of high self-esteem are not driven to make themselves superior to others; they do not seek to prove their value by measuring themselves against a comparative standard. Their joy is being who they are, not in being better than someone else. – Nathaniel Branden

Pickled cucumbers are so good. They taste just like a pickle. – Colin Dooley, Baylen Out Loud

🥂🍾 For the Sake Of Auld Lang Syne…

Until next time, stay safe; stay not starting the new year with the pressure of a New Year’s Resolution; and stay focusing on and prioritizing what you’re grateful for, rather than holding on tightly to the past.

April 18, 2025 – GH Weekdays, Natalia Gets Blindsided, Soap Suds, This Week In Reality, Weekend Watch, In My World & One

Standard

What I Watched Today

(Weekday bites, Friday’s whole GH enchilada & media minutiae)

General Hospital

🥢 Weekday Bites…

(new and improved for easier reading)

Monday:

Jack asked Carly how it went, and she said she’d planned to have a strong stance on Michael’s behalf, but Willow was so smug and condescending, she lost it. She may have just handed Michael’s children over to Willow and Drew.

Willow said it was supposed to be a joyous time, but Carly ruined it, and Drew said he wasn’t going to let Willow lose her kids. She said she knew Carly could be mean and vindictive, but this time she was on the receiving end. Carly had just been giving Michael what he wanted, and never really gave a damn about her.

Portia told Trina that the procedure was brand new, and Trina said, even if Kai could play again, one bad hit and he could end up paralyzed, but he’d already made up his mind without Portia’s opinion. Portia said she finished her research and Trina asked what she found out.

Ava visited Ric, who asked how things went with Alexis. She said she told Alexis everything and if Alexis didn’t meet their demands, she’d talk to Molly and cops about the attempted murder. Alexis had until 9 am tomorrow.

In front of her house on the phone with Diane, Alexis said she hadn’t signed the commitment papers yet, but she’d do it tonight. She went inside and Kristina was there. Kristina said she looked spooked. Sonny went to Laura’s office to talk about the political hurricane she’d mentioned, and she said it was still a possibility the city could seize control of his waterfront property.

Sonny said he’d thought the esplanade location had been settled, and Laura said so did she. Sidwell and Drew tried to force her to move the esplanade from the original location to Sonny’s piers using eminent domain. She’d thought she shut it down, but they wouldn’t let it die. She’d decided to allow the people of Port Charles to decide where the esplanade should be located in a city-wide referendum.

Carly told Jack that she’d thought it was Drew’s influence, but it was 100% Willow. They welcomed her into the family, stood beside her, rallied behind her, and this was how she was repaying their love and kindness. Carly blew up, they went at it, and it got bad. Jack said they’d come up with a plan and mitigate the damage together.

Drew said Carly was a user. He went to prison for her and when the relationship was over, it was as if nothing they’d shared mattered. Willow said Carly had told her that she’d always care about Drew, and Drew said they both know Carly was a liar. The battle Carly was waging said more about Carly than Willow. She’d done everything she could to meet Michael halfway and none of it was her fault. Willow said she didn’t think so either. Moving in was what she wanted and good for the kids. Nina came back, and Willow said, this was supposed to be a day of celebration. Drew said he would make sure Carly never set foot in this house again and wondered if he should get a restraining order. Nina thought that would be rash, but Drew said, Carly literally almost hit Willow. Nina said Carly was clearly in the wrong, but they weren’t going to gain or fix anything by being as extreme as Carly. They needed to stay calm and focused, and compromise. It was the only way they were going to have peace. They were the reasonable ones and being cool and rational would work in their favor with the judge later. The doorbell rang, and Drew opened the door to Kai, who asked if it was a bad time.

Portia said Kai had asked her medical opinion, so she couldn’t disclose it to Trina. Kai had a tough decision, but it was his decision. Trina said he could live a good life the way he was. He’d already accepted that he wouldn’t be playing football and was working hard to find peace and move on. Portia asked this wasn’t really about Spencer.

Ric said it may not be the done deal Ava thought. Alexis might love her high-minded principles more than her daughter. Ava said Alexis wasn’t letting Kristina go to prison and the mere accusation would tear her girls apart, probably for good. Ric said he’d never underestimated Alexis, and while Ava thought she’d given Alexis 24 hours to make a decision, she also gave Alexis 24 hours to come up with a strategy to save Kristina.

Alexis said it had been a long day and asked why Kristina was there. Molly came out and said she told Kristina that Alexis would forget, and Kristina said, welcome to their Davis girls night – Noodle Buddha and a movie. She asked for Alexis’s phone, and Molly said they were unplugging, shutting out the rest of the world, relaxing, and having fun. Alexis said it was exactly what she needed.

Trina said it had nothing to do with Spencer, but Portia said she’d had a horrific, traumatic loss and Kai was the first young man she’d had feelings for since then. Maybe she was worried she’d lose him too. Trina said she didn’t want to watch something terrible happen to someone she cared about. She’d watch him play and get hit, praying he didn’t get hurt, but knowing at any given moment he could get seriously injured. She didn’t know if she could go through it again.

Drew said he was in the middle of a family crisis, and Kai said, no problem. Drew said they’d talk soon, and Kai left. Drew left to handle something, and Willow wondered how Nina could ask her to compromise. Carly compared her to Nelle, and even though they were twins, they were nothing alike. Nina said Carly was just trying to push her buttons, and Willow said she felt horrible about hurting Michael, but Carly implied she’d never loved him, was more manipulative than Nelle, and that she was trying to take Wiley from him like Nelle did. Nina said it was a gross exaggeration, but Willow said maybe deep down she was scared there was some truth to it.

Carly told Jack that she’d laid down the law and she and Willow both lost their tempers. She’d said Willow was taking advantage of Michael’s absence, and when Willow told her that Michael had no say because he wasn’t there, she lost it. Jack asked if Carly thought it was Drew’s influence, and Carly said she used to think so, but Willow had changed. She was glued to the idea of being a victim who loved her children and had just fallen in love. Everybody else didn’t know what they were talking about. When Willow said things about Michael, she lost it and almost hit Willow, but Nina had texted Jason, who showed up and stopped her. Jack said, as he saw it, she did exactly what needed to be done.

Sonny asked if somebody was pressuring Laura to come after him, and she said it was no secret that Congressman Cain and Councilman Boyle were making an issue out of their friendship. They were going to make it public that they believed the mayor was protecting the local crime boss. Sonny said that wasn’t true and they were just bullying her. Don’t let them. She said she didn’t, but she had intervened so Sonny could hold on to the piers. Not because of him, but because she believed it was the right thing for Port Charles. She’d recently come to realize the location shouldn’t just be up to her or him or Drew or Boyle. The esplanade was for the people of Port Charles, and they should decide where it went. Sonny disagreed and said he ran a legitimate business at the piers. If they tried to take it from him, he wasn’t going to let them. She said she needed him to trust her. She had another reason, but couldn’t go into it. Rocco showed up and asked if everything was okay.

Ava told Ric that Alexis couldn’t strategize away evidence. She had video footage and had the car. When she found out the wires had been cut, she had the car moved to a storage facility she used for the gallery. It was her most treasured piece of art. Ric asked how she managed it, and she said she bribed the mechanic of course (🍷). If anybody else asked, he’d say it went through the crusher. He said, what if she needed to prove Kristina’s guilt? and she said she’d have it towed back and call the PCPD. They’d establish the brakes were tampered with before the crash, but it wouldn’t come to that. Alexis was going to meet their demands.

Kristina said eating Noodle Buddha was odd without Sam, and Molly said Sam would be happy they supported the restaurant since it meant so much to her. Alexis said, she and Jason were married there, and Molly said, Sam would be happy the Davis women were back together. She’d really missed Kristina. It was like a part of her had been missing. Kristina said she was sorry she’d made it impossible.

Trina told Portia that she’d developed strong feelings for Kai. He was a kind, generous, and funny guy. Portia said, and he wasn’t bad looking. She understood Trina was afraid to lose him, but she couldn’t force him to live in a bubble. Trina said it wasn’t about her feelings. She was genuinely scared. Kai was putting his trust in Drew and this miracle surgery. What happened if it failed?

Willow told Nina that she was unnerved about being Nelle’s fraternal twin, and even though their DNA wasn’t identical, she’d wondered if she was capable of the same cruelty. Nina said there was nothing cruel about standing up to Carly and refusing to be verbally beaten up, and Willow wondered why so many people had turned against her when she didn’t do anything wrong. (Okay. The jury is back and has confirmed Willow is a moron.) She could see why Nelle felt misunderstood and angry at the world. Nina said Willow wasn’t her sister. Nelle was mentally unwell; Willow wasn’t. Look at everything she accomplished and had to overcome to become who she was. Wiley and Amelia belonged with her because she was a wonderful mother. Willow took Nina’s hand and thanked her, and Nina said she still thought Willow needed to compromise with Michael and his family… Drew came back and asked if they could table this for now. He thought they all needed time to decompress. Nina told Willow to try and relax and have a good evening. They hugged and Nina left.

Carly said she knew she’d made it a thousand times worse, but Jack said, on the contrary. She put on the necessary pressure, and they were going to go on the attack. Trust him. She may have just helped Michael win custody of his kids.

Sonny said he and Laura were just talking business, and Rocco asked if Laura could listen to his debate speech. Sonny said Rocco’s grandmother was the consummate public speaker, and Laura asked if it was okay if Sonny stayed to hear Rocco’s speech. Rocco said, if he had the time, and Sonny said he was never too busy for Rocco. Dazzle him.

Ava said if Alexis didn’t want her family blown up, she’d have to pay, and Ric asked if she didn’t think her desire for revenge was a mistake. Ava said, nope, and Ric said Kristina had graduated from being reckless and out of control. She had a screw loose and if she wasn’t brought to justice, she’d be free to come after Ava again. Ava said she’d constantly have to watch her back. The money was no good to her if she was dead. Ric asked if she thought her plan was really a good idea.

Kristina told Molly that she’d missed this. She couldn’t stop thinking about the terrible things she did and said and wished she could take them back. Molly said her too, but all was forgiven, so it was time to move past it. That may be the one good thing to come from her dad’s accident. She wanted her sister back and this brought them together. Kristina asked how her dad was doing, and Molly said he was upbeat, but still had a long road ahead. He and Elizabeth were lucky to be alive. Alexis said they were going to make a full recovery, and Molly said after that, they’d never have to think about this nightmare again.

Kai called Portia and she asked Trina to step outside. He asked if Portia was able to do the research, and she said she’d like him to stop by her office.

Willow said Drew was telling her that there was no way she was going to lose her kids, Michael listened to Carly, and she was going to push. She was ruthless and lethal when she needed to be. That’s why Willow was afraid to tell Michael that she was moving the kids into Drew’s, but now she thought she made it worse. If Michael came at her, guns blazing, how was she going to stop him?

Carly said she failed to see how she’d helped, but Jack said they knew she’d fought for her children before and was relentless. She’d made a declaration of war today and history predicted the future. Willow was going to panic and be the damsel in distress, prompting Drew to be her knight in shining armor. Drew was so arrogant, he would do something big to save the day. He’d overreach and make a mistake that Carly would be able to use against him.

Ava said she could live with uncertainty, especially if she was being well-compensated. She could hire security. She asked if Ric was getting cold feet, and he said he guessed he could console himself with a fat payday. She said, even if Kristina didn’t pay? and he said Molly couldn’t lose another sister. Despite how he felt about his daughter, she couldn’t handle another tragedy. On a less noble note, Alexis was a woman of integrity, and if she had to swallow her self-righteous principles and commit embezzlement, that sounded like justice to him. Ava said Alexis didn’t know about his involvement and she thought she’d keep it that way. As long as Alexis didn’t know about his part, it would be smooth sailing for him and Molly. He said that was very generous, as long as Ava didn’t keep his share of the cut.

Molly said, rom-com or legal thriller? and Kristina said, rom-com. She’d already had too much drama. Alexis asked if she was letting go of her anger and resentment, and Kristina said she thought she was. Not just in her relationship with Molly, but about the baby. Her toxic need for revenge had swallowed her up and she’d lost sight of what was important. That wasn’t her. Molly asked if she’d come to that conclusion all on her own or was she in therapy, and Kristina said, both. Alexis said she was glad Kristina was doing better.

Laura said Rocco’s speech was brilliant, and Sonny said he was as good a public speaker as his grandmother. Laura suggested he make more eye contact, and Sonny told him, when he believed in himself, other people would believe in him. Rocco left, and Sonny said maybe he could get Rocco to make a case for the esplanade. Laura said that was one reason she wanted to put the location to a public vote. She didn’t want it coming between them.

Willow said maybe she needed to compromise, but Drew said she had all the power. She said, what if Carly tried to take the kids? but he said that wasn’t going to happen. Willow was their only functioning parent and had custody, but God forbid if something happened to her. They had to make sure Carly and Tracy never got their hands on the kids. Willow said he couldn’t guarantee that, but he said he actually could. He took some papers out of his briefcase and said he had the answer right here.

Portia told Kai that she’d looked into the procedure and the surgery was cutting edge. She was surprised Drew heard of it. Did he mention how? Kai said, no, but he was glad Drew was looking out for him. He was going to tell Drew tonight that he was ready to meet the doctor, and he didn’t get the chance, but he really did want to hear her opinion. She said she’d researched it thoroughly and her honest opinion was that she couldn’t in good conscience recommend the surgery. There were dozens of cases, and it was confirmed that three patients ended up paralyzed as a direct result of the procedure. He said, some of the surgeries were successful, and she said, two. He said he was going to be the third.

Drew said Willow shouldn’t put off protecting her family and kids. If something happened to her, if she was hurt or incapacitated, the papers made him the kids’ legal guardian. She would also be legal guardian of Scout if something happened to him. Willow said it was a huge step, and he said it was a necessary one. Did she agree it was a good idea? After a moment’s hesitation, she said, yes. Carly wouldn’t stop until she got her hands on Willow’s children. She had to protect them and trusted him more than anyone in the world to look after her kids. It was exactly what she wanted. He took a convenient pen out of his back pocket, and she signed the papers.

Jack said Carly was going to use Drew to win custody, but she said Jason told her that she’d made the battle harder. He thought she should suck it up and play nice. Jack said, the only reason to play nice was to convince the opposition to compromise. With Drew, she had to trick her opponent into making a mistake, which he was certain would happen. She’d laid the trap beautifully. She needed to sit back and wait while he took the bait.

Sonny said he respected that Laura was stuck between their friendship and her position as mayor, and she said, for what it was worth (🍷), she wanted the vote to go his way. He said if it didn’t, his lawyer would put up a helluva fight – not with her. Rocco reminded him they’re family and family always comes first. Laura said, always.

Ava said she’d never cut Ric out of the deal. She may have been the intended target, but he almost died. He deserved a payday as much as she did. He said people got shifty when it came to a jackpot like this, and she said, if Alexis decided to protect her lunatic daughter, she’d have to pay double.

Alexis took the papers out of her bag and looked at her girls. Kristina told her to hurry up and she put the papers back in her bag.  

Tuesday:

Gio was playing a tango on his violin outside when Brook came along. She said she was hoping to get him to help her. Lucy got her in a bind.

Chase found Lois in the solarium, and said he was glad he was back. She said she thought he’d never be happy to see her again.

On the phone at the gallery, Ava told Ric there was no sign of Alexis. She was cutting it close. Dante went into Ric’s room and Ric hung up on Ava. As Ava wondered what happened, Trina walked into the gallery.

Lucky brought Elizabeth home, and Lulu, Laura, and Aiden were there to welcome her. Josslyn did classwork at the Surf Lodge, when Emma came in.

Kristina went with Molly to visit Ric, and Dante asked to talk to Kristina.

On the phone in the office, Diane talked to someone about petitioning the court for an involuntary commitment. Alexis walked in, and Diane said everything was set. All she needed was the papers. Alexis said she couldn’t, but Diane said it was the only way to save her daughter.

Josslyn told Emma that catching up was a little overwhelming. She had no regret about going to Easter Island, but she saw some all-nighters in her future. Emma said when she transferred, everyone had a support system already. It was hard at first, but she found her footing and thought Josslyn would too. Emma had to get to class and left, when Josslyn suddenly remembered that she, too, had a class, and left.

Lucky put Elizabeth on the sofa, and Lulu told her that Aiden and Lucky had been working to make sure everything was perfect. They’d set up a bedroom on the first floor and Aiden had been cooking up a storm. Amy arrived and said, reporting for duty.

Trina told Ava that Drew suggested a cutting-edge surgery to Kai so he could play football again, but she doubted it was out of the kindness of his heart. It was risky, but there was no changing Kai’s mind. If it went wrong, Drew would lose nothing, but Kai was risking his health and maybe his life.

Chase said Lois wasn’t an easy person to stay mad at, and she said she knew he was in a difficult position. All those years ago, she’d told Brook not to tell Dante about the baby, and when it came out, she told Brook not to tell Chase. Chase said he resented it for a while, since he’d put himself in Dante’s shoes and he’d want to know.

Kristina asked if she was under arrest, but Dante said, not yet. He asked how their dad was doing, and she said, good. She thought it was a huge relief that he was able to tell Dante and asked what a detective was doing investigating a car crash.

Diane told Alexis that Kristina had severely injured two people in an attempt to kill a third. There was no choice. If there was an investigation, they’d have an insanity defense ready. Alexis said she didn’t sign the papers and didn’t intend to, but Diane said it was the only way to protect her daughter. Alexis asked what good it did to protect her if she destroyed her in the process.

Chase told Lois that he’d wrestled with telling Dante, who was both his best friend and his partner. But it was Brook’s secret, not his. He couldn’t be angry for a decision made a lifetime ago. He had to honor her choices and not say anything.

Brook said she was co-producing the Nurses Ball and Gio was the first person who came to mind. How did he feel about a solo act? He said he didn’t think he was the best fit. Classical music for the wrong audience would put them to sleep. Brook insisted that wouldn’t happen.

Amy threw out a lot of instructions for Elizabeth, and said any food that caused inflammation should be tossed out. She gave Lucky a list and Lulu suggested they look at Elizabeth’s new bedroom. We heard Amy say they needed a humidifier, refilled every l2 hours and cleaned at the end of the day. Aiden said she was already too much.

Molly brought Ric a double espresso and he said she was an angel. She told him that it was Kristina’s idea.

Dante told Kristina that he came to see how his uncle was doing. His mom would want him to do the Bensonhurst thing, stop and check on a relative, regardless how he felt about them. It was nice that Molly and Kristina were talking again. Kristina said, the accident changed everything. Her sister needed her, and she needed her sister. Diane asked, what changed Alexis’s mind? and Alexis said, Kristina and Molly came over. They were loving each other and laughing, and she knew Kristina needed the support and love of her family. If she sent Kristina away, it would shatter Kristina’s trust in her. Diane said Kristina would understand Alexis putting her well-being first, but Alexis said she knew Kristina would never forgive her and she’d be the one destroying Kristina’s relationship with her sister for good.

Trina told Ava that her mother talked to Kai and advised against the surgery, but she didn’t think it mattered. She was sure he was going ahead with it. Ava asked if there wasn’t a chance success, and Trina said she’d love to believe that, but still thought it was the wrong decision. Ava asked what Kai said about her concerns, and Trina said he wanted her to support his decision, but how could she do that if it was the wrong one? Ava said it would be hard, but ultimately, she had respect Kai’s right to make the choice for himself.

In the kitchen, Lulu asked Aiden to help Amy move Elizabeth’s bed, and when he left, she asked Lucky how it was going. He said, fabulous. He had no idea what he was doing. She said, with the fridge or Elizabeth? Laura said she was happy Elizabeth was back in Lucky’s life, and Elizabeth said it would be worse if he wasn’t there. She was happy to have both him and Laura here. With Cameron and Jake away, it would be a lot for her and Aiden. She was glad to have family she could rely on. Laura said she always would. Elizabeth was a very important part of the family.

Kristina asked what Dante and Ric talked about and he said, sports. He was hoping Ric could let go of some grudges. Kristina wondered if it was possible to move on after so much had happened that was bad.

Molly asked what Dante wanted, and Ric said, to check up on him. They didn’t have much to say. Dante probably had the same opinion of him as Sonny did. He’d thought Dante was investigating the accident. She wondered what there was to investigate about an accident, and he said, the mystery of black ice in spring. She said, it would be nice if something good came out of it, and he said, him and his nephew or her and her sister?

Alexis told Diane that Molly would want to know why and when she found out Kristina tried to kill her father, and she’d be done. Alexis would lose what was left of her family. Diane said if there was an investigation, Molly would find out anyway, and it was better if she heard it from Alexis, but Alexis said, if there was no investigation, she’ll have destroyed her family for nothing. Diane asked if Molly wouldn’t be relieved that Kristina was getting help, but Alexis said she’d know it was a legal strategy. Diane said she might, but she couldn’t think of another way to keep Kristina out of prison. Their options, legally speaking, were limited. Alexis said committing Kristina couldn’t be the only way to handle the situation. She was going to keep quiet and cover it up. Her phone dinged with a text from Ava: Don’t be late.

Kai brought Trina to the Surf Lodge and said he had something important to tell her. Her mom was against the surgery and thought it was a longshot, but he’d beaten the odds before. Football meant too much to him and if there was even a chance, he needed to take it. He was going to have the surgery.

Lois told Chase that after Brook gave birth, she didn’t even want to hold the baby. She knew if she did, she’d never let it go. She put her child’s needs above her own on day one and loved her child with her whole heart. Chase said it wasn’t easy for Lois either. She had a grandkid she’d never met. Lois said she had faith in the nuns to find the right adoptive parents. She was choosing to believe her grandchild was healthy and loved.

Brook said she’d seen Gio play, and he said, okay. He’d do it. It’s the Nurses Ball for cryin’ out loud. (Aww. I miss Scotty.) He was glad she was producing him and not Lucy. Not that there was anything wrong with that. Brook said there was plenty wrong. Stick with her. He’d knock their socks off.

Lulu said, Lucky and Elizabeth were spending more time together since the accident, and Lucky said he wanted to take care of her as long as she’d have him. Laura came in to get tea for Elizabeth and Lulu took it to her. Laura asked how Lucky was, and he said, good, but she said she knew when he was holding something back. She guessed it had something to do with Elizabeth. Aiden told Elizabeth that Amy made him move the bed four times and Elizabeth couldn’t use her comforter because of dust mites. She was going to be there eight hours a day every day. Was Elizabeth sure about this? Elizabeth said it was just a few weeks before she’d be back on her feet. Until then, they could go through anything. Lulu said, famous last words.

Emma said she couldn’t believe they’d let Josslyn into Professor Dalton’s class. She had to beg to be admitted after being on the waitlist. Josslyn said she was grateful, and Emma was Dalton’s star student. Emma said she was just lucky, but Josslyn said she’d certainly impressed Dalton.

Diane said she was Alexis’s lawyer but was her friend first. She knew Alexis was a wonderful mother, but what Alexis was suggesting scared her. Kristina committed a serious crime and wanting to cover it up could have serious consequences for Kristina and Alexis. Alexis said she’d cross that bridge when she came to it, and Diane said, fine. If Kristina was arrested, she’d do everything in her power to protect them both. But she’d be charging Alexis double for not taking her advice. Alexis said she knew what she was doing seemed unreasonable, but she had to do it. She thanked Diane for helping, but she was going to take it from here. She left.

Josslyn said, the professor commended Emma’s performance in class. It was refreshing. Emma was obviously listening. Not everybody did. Professor Dalton appeared and said, maybe it was because Emma was easy to listen to. Josslyn jumped up and introduced herself and said it was the first lecture of his she’d attended. She’d been away on a grad trip, but she was back and would be there for the rest of the semester. Dalton asked if she wasn’t starting late, and Josslyn said she’d been determined to get in. She found the subject fascinating. Dalton said he was accepting applications for an undergrad research assistant and thought she should apply. He went to another table, and Emma told Josslyn that she knew what she was doing this summer. (D’oh!)

Lucky said Laura’s advice wouldn’t be the worst thing, and Laura said he and Elizabeth had always had a powerful connection. Just be brave and say it. Be honest. He said he appreciated her advice. He missed her while she was away, but he could hear her in his head. He didn’t always follow her advice, but he heard it. She said it was because she was his mom. She’d always be with him. Aiden set up a Scrabble board, when Amy came in and said it was time for Elizabeth’s nap. Laura said, maybe it was for the best. She had to get to a press event, but they’d play next time. Aiden took Lulu to the side and said, whatever she does, don’t leave them alone with that woman.

Trina told Kai that she had concerns. She felt he was being rushed into a risky procedure and didn’t like that Drew was the one making it happen. Kai said he understood, but the surgeon was legit, and he was aware of the risk. He was going into this with his eyes open. He had a good feeling about it and had to go for it. It would mean a lot if she was by his side.

Ric asked if Kristina apologized for saying Irene was not Molly’s daughter, and Molly said, Kristina acknowledged all of her mistakes. After the accident, Kristina was her rock. She didn’t know what she would have done without her. Ric said, what about when the crisis was over? and Molly said Kristina was a flawed person and she didn’t think Kristina would be perfect for the rest of their lives, but she thought this time it was different. He said, how so? and she said, because now they knew what they stood to lose.

Dante said it was possible to move on, and Kristina asked, how? Dante said he did it. After his assignment with the WSB, he was in bad shape. He had setbacks, but eventually moved on and put it behind him. She said it seemed like a part of life she didn’t think she could forget, and it didn’t seem possible to move on, but he said he saw her putting in the work. He was proud of her.

Alexis went to the gallery, and Ava said she thought Alexis wasn’t coming. She was about to go to the DA’s office to have a chat with Molly. Alexis said Ava was getting what she wanted. She had the funds from the Cassadine estate transferred to a Swiss bank account where they’ll be transferred to Ava’s account in installments. The first one should arrive as they speak and by July, every dime of her divorce settlement would be back. Their business was concluded. Alexis started to leave, and Ava said, about that. The price has gone up. Her divorce settlement was a great start, but that wasn’t all she wanted.

Trina said she’d have Kai’s back – no pun intended. He kissed her and said he’d be back on the field in no time, and all this would be worth it.

Lucky went to get Elizabeth’s book from the car, and Lulu told Aiden, don’t worry. Everything would work out fine. Aiden said, famous last words. Lulu followed Lucky outside, and he said she could make a break for it. She said, Amy may not work out. She’s a bad fit. Lucky said there was no other option, but she said there was – him.

Gio was playing his violin outside, when Lois came by and wondered if she’d heard him playing something from this century. He asked if it was okay, and she said, it was amazing. He said he was trying out pieces for the Nurses Ball, and she said Brook would make sure he was great. He said she was producing him, and Lois said she loved that they were teaming up. Gio said him too. His mom said practicing on his own was the only way to grow as an artist, but working with other artists and the right collaborator was the key to being great. Lois said his mom was always looking out for him, and he said she still was, in a way.

Brook found Chase in the solarium and said Lucy wanted to know what song he was performing, but he said he didn’t know if was up for that. Brook said he had to. It wouldn’t be the same without him. He said he needed incentive. If he did it, he’d need a very hands-on producer. She asked, how hands on? and he said he’d need help with the music, and getting in his wardrobe, and getting out of his wardrobe. She said, in that case, sign her up, and they kissed.

Alexis said the point of blackmailing her was for Ava to get her divorce settlement back. What changed? Ava said the divorce settlement was already hers. Alexis was giving her back what was stolen in the first place. Alexis asked what she felt entitled to now, and Ava said, compensation pay for Kristina’s attempt on her life. And compensation for Ric’s pain and suffering. Alexis asked how Ava was going to compensate Ric, and Ava said what she did with her money was her business. Alexis’s business was to keep the payments coming. Ava’s phone dinged and she said the first payment had been deposited. Alexis said she was going, and Ava said, one more thing. Keep a leash on her daughter or the price might skyrocket.

Kristina said she’d made a bad choice and was trapped in rage and hate, and Dante said but she saw it and stopped it now. Or she was trying to. She said she had to not let the things that went wrong in her life hold her back.

Ric said he knew what it was like to be estranged from a sibling, and Molly asked if he wished things had been different. He said, no. Things were different, briefly, once upon a time. Molly told him that their mom said they’d need each other someday, especially now that Sam was gone. They both put up a helluva a fight, but their mom wouldn’t let it go. She was right and now Molly had her sister back. Ric’s phone buzzed and there was a text from Ava: $$$$$. He said he was glad Alexis was able to give that to her, and Molly said her too.

Josslyn said, the professor only invited Emma to apply. She was still competing with other applicants, right? Emma said, of course (🍷). Everyone would want to assist Dalton. Josslyn said he did single Emma out. That was good news. Emma said now she needed to spend the rest of the semester showing him that she was the best person for the job. She couldn’t wait to work with him. She left and we saw Dalton sitting at another table.

Wednesday:

Amy tried to get Elizabeth to rest, but Elizabeth said she was all napped out and Lucky said he could handle Elizabeth.

At her press conference, Laura said she believed the McConkey esplanade was a valuable addition to Port Charles. It would be a financial boon, an avenue for tourism and public transportation, but most important, it would foster community for the citizens who gathered there. The matter at hand was the location on which she and Congressman Cain strongly disagreed.

Sidwell went to see Tracy in the solarium and Tracy told him that Yuri would be staying for their entire interaction. It would be brief. Sidwell said he hoped not. He’d found they had so much in common.

Diane went to see Sonny along with Marco, and Jason answered the door. She introduced, Marco Rios, the newest member of Miller and Davis, and Sonny asked why he didn’t have his father’s last name. Jenz Sidwell was his father, right?

Elizabeth said she wasn’t big on being handled, and Lucky amended it to helping make her comfortable. It was great having Amy, but a nurse with her experience and impressive bedside manner must be needed at the hospital. Amy said Elizabeth was her most important patient and she was going to stay right there until she was fully recovered. Elizabeth sent a text to someone: 911!!! Help!!!

Laura said she supported the site originally proposed by Congressman Cain, and Boyle interrupted, asking if the esplanade wasn’t Congressman Quartermaine’s idea. Laura said the funding was based on the original site, and Boyle asked if Drew hadn’t secured the funding. Laura said he had, but then had a change of opinion on the location. As a result, the federal funds were now frozen. The new site Congressman Cain had proposed would require the use of eminent domain to forcibly seize Piers 55 and 56, private property owned by a citizen of Port Charles. The design had been modified to address environmental concerns and since she thought it would benefit all of them, she was announcing a referendum to let the citizens of Port Charles to decide the location. Boyle asked if she didn’t think the public had a right to know who owned the piers. Did she forget to mention they were owned by the resident mob boss Sonny Corinthos?

Diane said she didn’t know that Marco was Sidwell’s son, and Sonny said he had a conversation with Natalia. She’d told him that she had a son by her ex-husband Jenz Sidwell. Diane said, color her surprised, and Marco said he and his father didn’t share a last name. Now that he was aware it was an issue, he’d include it on his resume. Diane said they’d talk about it later, and Sonny said he wanted a private conversation with his lawyer. Marco left, and Diane said she was sorry. She had no idea Marco had any connection to Sidwell. Naturally, she’d terminate him immediately. Sonny said he had a better idea.

Tracy said Sidwell being a supplier to Deception was the only reason she was entertaining a conversation. Her only interest in the company was to keep it profitable for her granddaughter. Sidwell said that was something they had in common. They both cared deeply about their families. They also shared a common thorn in their sides. Tracy said the only thorn she had was him and she’d like to be rid of him, and he said he felt she’d like to be rid of Sonny even more.

Lucas went over to Elizabeth and asked Lucky how the patient was. Lucky said, as well as could be expected under the circumstances, and Lucas said, what circumstances? Amy yelled for Lucky, and Lucky said, that was the circumstance. Lucas said he’d gotten Elizabeth’s text. Where was the fire? Elizabeth said, Amy was the fire. Aiden’s nerves were already frayed, and she wasn’t sure if he was even coming home. She couldn’t take another nap, and she didn’t need a nurse. She’d figure it out. Just do this for her. Amy came in and asked what Lucas was doing there, and he said Portia and Terry got their wires crossed. She was needed back at GH. They couldn’t spare her. Lucky got her bag, and Amy said, if she left, who would take her place? Lucky said he’d do it.

Tracy told Yuri that he could go, but stay close. Yuri left, and Sidwell said he was happy to supply the rare mineral Deception needed and enjoyed spending time with the ladies on the team, but he had grave misgivings about their not-so-silent partner’s involvement. He’d feel more secure if Sonny was gone. Tracy asked why he was bringing it to her, and he said, as the majority shareholder, she was in a unique position to get rid of him.

Diane said they’d vetted Marco carefully, but didn’t ask about his parents, and Sonny said there was no way she could know. But Sidwell knew she was his attorney and put Marco up to it. It wasn’t a coincidence. Jason agreed, and Sonny suggested Jason have a friendly chat with Marco. Jason left and Sonny told Diane, you know what they say, knowledge is power.

Laura said it was no secret that Sonny owned Piers 55 and 56. It was a matter of public record. But the forcible seizure of any citizen’s private property wasn’t a subject she took lightly. That’s why she was proposing a referendum vote – to let the people have their say. Boyle said they already had their say when they elected her to look out for their best interests. Sonny’s piers had been a blight on the city for years and were the site of countless violent crimes. Seizing them and giving them back to the city of Port Charles solved two problems – a home for the esplanade and eradicating a hotbed of crime. She could make happen. Why put the people of Port Charles through unnecessary time and expense with a voter referendum? Laura said she didn’t believe it should be a unilateral decision since it impacted every citizen, and Boyle asked if she was worried it would impact the people or Sonny. She had a personal relationship with Sonny and dined with him publicly. Maybe the people wanted to make sure her MetroCourt meals weren’t paid for by the city’s dime. Laura said she and Mr. Corinthos shared a grandchild and she made no apology for that. However, she took offense at the suggestion she’d shown Sonny any partiality. In fact, she’d chosen to put the decision in the hands of the voters so there would be no question of bias. Boyle asked if she wasn’t really just abdicating her responsibility of allegiance to the people, and she said her allegiance was to the citizens of Port Charles and the US Constitution. Boyle asked, how about the Deputy Mayor? How could she support her boss’s obvious refusal to stand up to organized crime and support dumping her decision in the people’s lap just to avoid standing up to Sonny’s criminal empire that had taken over their beautiful city?

Jordan said she wouldn’t allow Boyle to drag her into his public debate with the mayor, and he said, what about the good people of Port Charles? She said she wouldn’t be manipulated, and he asked if refusing to stand up to organized crime wasn’t extreme. She took no position, and neither was she willing to do the job she was elected to do. Jordan said she’d asked Laura privately to reconsider. She couldn’t in good conscience endorse the referendum, so out of respect for the mayor and the position of Deputy Mayor, she was choosing to resign effective immediately.

Lucky said he’d stay around the clock, but Amy said they needed a medical professional. Elizabeth said she was a medical professional, and Lucky said he knew where to find Amy and wouldn’t hesitate to find her and wouldn’t hesitate to reach out for help. Elizabeth poked Lucas, and Lucas said he’d be checking in like he lived there. Amy said she’d be available day or night, and Elizabeth needed to text her every day. Elizabeth promised, and Amy said all the nurses loved their head nurse, especially her, and left.

Tracy said she never wanted Sonny involved with Deception, but her partners felt it was necessary, and Sidwell said he believed they needed zincite more than they needed Sonny. Tracy said that was their agreement despite her misgivings, and Sidwell said, between the two of them, they had the leverage to convince the others to part ways with Mr. Corinthos. Tracy asked why she should choose him over Sonny. They both brought more risk than reward. Sidwell said, right now, their agreement was for him to supply an amount of zinc, but that amount was finite. She said, so he could cut it off or demand an exorbitant renegotiation fee, and he said she could use that as leverage to convince the team it was worth parting ways with Sonny. She said then they’d get to negotiate a price in perpetuity. They’d get the zinc they needed and get rid of Sonny, but there was one problem. She didn’t trust him any more than she did Sonny.

Diane asked what Sonny wanted her to do, and he said, for now, keep an eye on Marco, but that’s not why he asked her to come. Laura gave him a heads up on a big vote coming up. Diane’s phone dinged and she said, apparently, the vote was about him.

Jordan said, no questions. She had no comment until after she formally submitted her resignation. She left and the press bombarded Laura with questions. In the hallway, Anna asked what Jordan was doing, and Jordan said she never intended to call out Laura in public, but she had her own concerns about Laura’s relationship with Sonny. Anna said, Laura’s integrity was beyond reproach, but Jordan said Laura was still too close. She and Sonny shared a family and socialized, and Laura wasn’t willing to distance herself. It was reflecting badly on Jordan as well. Anna said she strongly disagreed, and Jordan said she loathed Boyle, but he wasn’t wrong. Laura was too cozy with Sonny and Sonny was a criminal. She couldn’t continue to defend Laura. Anna asked if they couldn’t just agree to disagree, and Jordan said she tried to look the other way, but it wasn’t working for her. Laura said, questions would have to wait until later and got down from the podium. Curtis told her that he was sorry. When he asked her to put it up for a referendum vote, he didn’t expect it to blow up. She said it wasn’t his fault. Boyle was determined to turn this into a circus. Curtis asked if she had any idea Jordan was resigning, but she said, it came out of the blue. He hadn’t put pressure on her to do this. It was her decision, and she stood by it. Drew appeared and said he couldn’t agree more. He was happy she’d come around to his way of thinking.

Lucas left, and Lucky said it was a good thing he’d shown up. Elizabeth said she may have texted him. Only a doctor who Amy liked and respected could convince her to go. She apologized for putting him on the spot. He definitely didn’t need to stay. He said he wanted to. Everything that happened had been part of his master plan. She said, for taking care of her around the clock? and he said he’d almost lost her and he couldn’t let her out of his sight. She wasn’t getting rid of him now.

Diane told Sonny that Laura was putting the McConkey esplanade site to a referendum ballot. The people would decide whether to build it on the original site proposal or issue an eminent domain order and seize his piers to build it on. Sonny said, that can’t happen. The piers were crucial to his business. Diane asked what he wanted her to do, and he said, put together a defense team. Get the best real estate and constitutional law lawyers and fight the city. She said she could hire a thousand lawyers, but it would be a waste of time and money. It was a clear-cut case of you can’t fight city hall.

Drew told Laura, well played and smart. The decision was now out of her hands. Sonny couldn’t blame her when the people voted to take away the piers and she could pretend the will of the people was responsible. Curtis told him not to be so sure yet. Sonny had the respect of the town. Drew said the people weren’t stupid or gullible, and Curtis said that remained to be seen, but he’d get no help from Aurora in his war against Sonny. Drew said he expected Curtis to think better of the citizens, but he guessed not, and Laura said, how dare he? When they first undertook the project, he was clear about the location he chose. This whole thing was his idea and now it was tainted. He allowed his antagonistic relationships with his brother and Sonny to be more important than the people he was elected to serve. She walked away.

Marco went into Diane’s office to find Jason at her desk. He said he thought Diane had asked to see him, and Jason said Diane was his lawyer too. He had a question for Marco.

Sidwell thanked Tracy for meeting with him. He suspected Deception’s partnership with him would benefit them more than their entanglement with Sonny. Tracy said Yuri would show him out, but he said he could manage by himself. He told her, enchantée, and left.

Sonny said he’d owned the piers for decades and they could just take them? and Diane said that’s exactly what eminent domain was – when the city determined the needs of the people outweighed the needs of a private property owner. Sonny said he was being targeted by Drew’s power. Drew wanted to come after him and Jason because he got his little feelings hurt. Diane said she didn’t disagree. The violence and alleged criminal activity at the piers had never proven welcome. She’d research precedents and case law, using the angle that his needs outweighed the city’s needs. But if the people of Port Charles voted to seize the piers, ultimately, she didn’t think there was a legal way around it. Sonny said that was unacceptable. His business required ownership of the piers. She said he may have to find a new way of doing business.

Anna said she guessed Aurora would be giving a press conference and Curtis said he’d be covering the fallout for a while. But something wasn’t right. Jordan going against Laura and resigning. There was no way she’d let an obvious sleaze like Boyle force her hand. Jordan’s moral compass was firmly in place and Boyle questioned it repeatedly. Anna said she felt Jordan was at her breaking point. They both knew that Laura had never been able to come to terms with Sonny’s activities. Curtis said, even when TJ was little and Sonny took him in and paid for his education, and she said, Sonny definitely helped occasionally, but she thought Jordan reached her limit. He said he knew from experience when Jordan was done, she was done, and Anna said it was ideal for someone running a criminal enterprise to have close ties to a city official. Jordan wasn’t wrong.

Boyle went to Drew’s office and Drew said, great job with the press conference. Boyle said it was fun, but he didn’t have Jordan resigning in his purview. He thought she and Laura would stick together. Drew said Jordan was an independent thinker. Laura’s career was tanking, and the rats were starting to jump ship.

Jordan brought Laura her letter of resignation, and Laura said she hadn’t seen it coming. Jordan said she needed Laura to be genuinely surprised, and they wished each other good luck. Jordan left and Laura said, good luck to all of them.

Marco said he’d try to answer Jason’s questions, and Jason asked why he picked Miller and Davis when there were other law firms. Marco said he’d interviewed at four and gotten three offers. This firm practiced the kind of law he liked and had a good compensation package. Jason said his father placed him there, but Marco said his father didn’t place him anywhere. It had been his choice to leave Miami. Jason said, so it was a coincidence, and Marco said they did happen. Jason said, not like this. Just after Marco’s father moved his operation there, there was an explosion in Sonny’s penthouse and Sonny’s son – his nephew – was severely burned. He almost died. Marco said he was sorry, and Jason said, was he? Him showing up made two coincidences. He’d be focused on Marco’s actions. Right now, it was peaceful, but if that changed, he’d stop Marco and stop his father. Marco asked if Jason was threatening him, and Jason said Marco was a smart man. He was sure Marco knew what a threat was. Lucas came in and asked what was going on. Did he interrupt something?

Elizabeth told Lucky that he could still bail, but he said he wanted to help if she let him. She said if he thought he had to make up for something, he didn’t, but he said that wasn’t true, and they set up the Scrabble game.

Lucas said Diane told him to come in. He’d seen Marco and Jason had met. What was happening? Jason said he was trying to get a straight answer out of Lucas’s friend (I nearly die laughing at the – I think – unintentional joke), but obviously he wasn’t capable of it. Maybe Lucas would have better luck. Jason left.

Drew told Boyle that Laura was an impediment, but she was giving them an opportunity with the referendum ballot. She wasn’t coming out strongly about taking away the piers and kneecapping Sonny’s criminal operation. It looked like she was on Sonny’s side. It was Boyle’s opportunity to run against her in the next election. He could be the law-and-order candidate. He wanted to stop crime while Laura was in bed with the mob. She was vulnerable and they could take her out. Do everything Drew said, and he’d be in the mayor’s office, where he’d continue to do everything Drew said.  

Diane said, the more she read about the referendum, the less she liked it, and Sonny said he wished Laura hadn’t gone through with it. It opened the door to all his enemies coming after him. Diane said Drew had already come for him, directly supporting his take down. She didn’t think it was something Sonny could win in a courtroom. He had to convince people that he was the one they wanted to get behind. He’d been a generous benefactor for many years, most of it anonymous. That had to stop right now, and he had to paint himself as the generous benefactor he was. Sonny said if he stepped out of the shadow, he put himself in the position of a lot more scrutiny, and she said, the more notoriety, the greater the risk. It wasn’t a referendum on the pier, but a referendum on him.

Curtis told Anna that he understood Jordan not wanting a connection to Sonny, but didn’t understand her public resignation blindsiding Laura. Anna said it wasn’t Jordan’s style, but what other explanation was there?

Jordan flashed back to her resignation, when Sidwell called. He said he hoped she didn’t mind him calling, but her resignation was all over social media. He was impressed with her standing up for her ideals. Perhaps they should talk. She said, about? and he said, about her future of course (🍷).

Thursday:

Curtis went to see Jordan, who was packing up her office. He said, so it was true, she did resign, and she said she and Laura privately disagreed about Laura’s relationship with Sonny. Boyle put her on the spot and she gave her honest opinion. She had to either quit or Laura would have fired her for insubordination. Curtis said he understood that was the story she was telling, but he’d like to hear the truth.

A sign over Sonny’s mantel said, Happy Birthday, Dante, and Olivia said his new place was great. Sonny said he wanted to have more family gatherings there, when Lulu and Donna came out. Lulu asked, where’s the birthday boy? and Sonny said he was outside with Rocco.

In Sonny’s old kitchen, Felicia asked how Michael was, and Carly said, as well as could be expected. His doctors were happy with is progress, but she hadn’t had the heart to tell him that Willow was moving into Drew’s. She thought Willow would change her mind, but she didn’t know Willow at all. Felicia said she had an ulterior motive for inviting herself over. Mac needed Carly’s help.

Lucas told Marco that Jason didn’t seem happy, and he wasn’t the guy to have a problem with, and Marco said he knew Jason was Sonny Corinthos’s righthand man. Lucas said Jason and his sister were tight, but he’d come to congratulate Marco on his new job. Alexis came in and said, that might be premature. The minute Diane found out, Diane told her. Lucas said, told her what? and Marco said Jenz Sidwell was his father.

Brook told Chase they were going to be late, but he said he wasn’t sure he was in the right headspace for a party. He had a lot on his mind. (The 60s called and wants their headspace back.)

On the side of a road, Molly was on the phone saying she just needed someone to change a tire… No! Don’t put her on hold again… Cody came by on Hades and said, howdy, ma’am. Was there anything he could do?

Chase told Brook that he’d been talking to Lois about what Dante’s reaction would be to having a child he didn’t know about. It made him realize how bad he wanted to be a dad.

Felicia said Mac was worried that the referendum made Laura look like she was passing the buck to the voters instead of standing up to Sonny herself. He’d like Sonny to accept what the voters decided and not fight it. Carly said if they decided to take Sonny’s property, he wasn’t going to say okay, and Felicia said that’s why she needed to talk to him and convince him to do what was best for Laura.

Jordan said she was telling the truth, but Curtis said he knew her. There had to be more to the story. She said Sonny thought he was above the law and Laura knew, but still considered him a friend. That was a problem for her. She resented that Sonny was a factor in major decisions Laura made. Boyle opened the door and put her on the spot, and she couldn’t stop herself from walking through. Curtis said the only time he’d seen her out of character like this was when she was working undercover, and she said she was going to stop him there.

Cody said he was heading home and came across a damsel in distress, and Molly said she wasn’t a damsel, but she’d been on hold with the garage for 46 minutes and no progress. She put her phone back to her ear and said, great. When are they coming… no… She told Cody that somebody was coming, and he said he heard hours. Did she have a spare in the trunk? He wasn’t leaving her by the side of the road, and he could change a tire.

Lucas said he wasn’t expecting that, and Alexis said Marco neglected to mention it. Lucas tried to leave, but Marco said he didn’t conceal it and didn’t lie. They’d never asked. Did they ask other candidates about their family tree? Lucas said this had nothing to do with him and left. Alexis said, technically, it wasn’t a lie, but there were lies of omission, and Marco asked if she was rescinding the offer.

Lois, Gio, and Danny arrived at the party, and Lulu flashed back to Lois knocking on Martin’s door when she was rifling through his papers. Sonny said he’d get Dante and Rocco. On the patio, Rocco told Dante about the negative comments on social media about Laura. #MobsterMayor was trending, and his phone was blowing up. Dante told him not to worry about his grandmother. It was all politics. Rocco said he was the link between Sonny and Laura and the debate would make it worse. He didn’t want to go if that was going to happen, but Dante said he’d worked hard and couldn’t bail on his partner. Sonny came out as Rocco said he didn’t know what to do unless his grandfather didn’t go to the debate.

Cody changed the tire and Molly wondered who named a horse Hades. Cody said, Tracy. It probably reminded her of home. He warned Molly that Hades could sense her fear, then informed her that her spare tire was punctured. She said she’d forgotten to get it fixed, and he said it was time for Plan B.

Marco said he was still qualified for the job and bringing the same clients. His father had no criminal record and had never been charged with a crime. The same couldn’t be said for their biggest clients, Sonny and Jason. Their client list was more problematic than his.

Carly and Felicia gravitated to the moss bowl 🎍, and Carly said she and Sonny were in a good place. She had no intention of butting back into his business. Felicia asked if she didn’t think getting rid of the piers would make Port Charles safer and more peaceful. If Sonny didn’t own the piers anymore, could it turn out to be a good thing for Carly’s family?

Kristina told Danny about their perfect Davis girls night, and he said he was glad she and Molly were fine. He knew his mom would be too. Outside, Dante said it wasn’t what it sounded like, and Sonny asked if Rocco didn’t want him to go. Rocco apologized and told Sonny that he shouldn’t have said it. It wasn’t that he didn’t want Sonny to come, but after the press conference, he was worried it would be bad if Sonny and Laura were seen together. Dante wondered if they could sit separately, but Sonny said it was best for him to stay home and asked if Dante was going to record it. Dante said, of course (🍷), and Sonny said he was proud of Rocco for looking out for his grandmother. Rocco went inside, and Sonny said he was proud Rocco told the truth. He’d see the video and it was all good.

Carly asked if Felicia thought Sonny could be a legitimate businessman, and Felicia said it was possible. Carly said people generally didn’t walk away from that business, but Felicia said if it could happen, eminent domain could be a blessing in disguise. (Ugh. Eminent domain is a pet peeve of mine, so my blood boils whenever they mention it. It’s nobody’s blessing except those whose pockets are lined from it.)

Lucas came into Sonny’s old kitchen and said Carly wasn’t going to believe… Sorry for interrupting. (He does that a lot.) Felicia said she needed to get going and asked Carly to think about what she’d said. Lucas asked Carly if Jason was gunning for Marco Rios.

Alexis said there was a difference in doing something illegal and getting caught, and Marco said the difference was a good lawyer. He admired how the firm kept Sonny from being brought up on RICO charges. Alexis said she’d met his father, and her first impression was that he was charming, intelligent, and completely ruthless. Marco didn’t disclose it on purpose. He said she was right, but he’d thought she of all people would understand. She was a Cassadine, but didn’t use the name and had distanced herself from her problematic family. They had a dark international reputation, and she wanted to be judged on her own merit. That’s what he wanted too.

Jordan said if Curtis still cared about her, he’d drop the subject or leave. Curtis asked if she was in trouble. Was she being blackmailed? She said, no. She’d promised herself that she’d never lie to him again. She’d thought she was protecting him, but he needed honesty and deserved it. She’d lost him because of it and they’d worked at being friends. She didn’t want to jeopardize that, so he had to let it go.

Chase said it had been hard to accept he couldn’t get Brook pregnant. He felt he’d failed her. Brook said he was so wrong. She wanted to be worthy of him, but didn’t think she’d ever deserve him. All she wanted to do was think about a future with him. He said he wanted to move forward with the child they could have and wanted to raise a kid with her. Did she feel the same way?

Cody suggested they get moving with Plan B, but Molly said she’d wait for a tow. He asked if she thought he was leaving her there when it was about to get dark, but she said she’d be fine. Cody said they had an obvious solution.

Everyone sang Happy Birthday to Dante, who said he couldn’t think of a better way to spend his birthday than with family. He felt lucky to have them in his life. Even Michael had called. Sonny said family showed up, no matter what that entailed, and Dante thanked them and said he loved them.

Brook said she wanted to start a family with Chase, and he said they had to decide which option was right. She said she wanted to rule out IVF with a sperm donor because of Molly’s experience. She couldn’t go through that. Chase agreed, and she said they were back to adoption. He said he thought it was the best fit, but didn’t know how she felt.

Carly said, Miami Marco? and Lucas said Marco had gotten a job with Alexis and Diane’s firm, although he wasn’t sure it was going to work out. She asked what Jason had to do with it, and he said Marco texted him with the good news, so he stopped by to congratulate him. When he got there, there was a lot of tension between Jason and Marco, and it sounded like Jason had threatened Marco. Marco’s father is Jenz Sidwell, who he knows is a bad guy. Carly said, Sidwell kidnapped Sasha and held her at gunpoint. Officially, it didn’t happen because Jack took care of it. Lucas said he and Marco had only been a possibility, but now even that was gone.

Gio thanked Sonny for inviting him, and Sonny said Gio was family and the neighborhood stuck together. Did he have plans for the summer? Gio said the Port Charles Symphony apprentice program accepted him. Lulu asked if Lois was okay, and Lois said she’d been thinking about all the years she and Sonny had been friends. He never missed a chance to help her family out and had made Gio’s education a priority. Lulu said Sonny had always been generous.

Jordan asked Curtis to accept what she said for what it was and leave it at that. He said he’d lost the right to have her explain herself and respected her right not to tell him. She said she didn’t want to lie to him again. It had already cost her too much. He said it had cost them both, and she thanked him for checking in and understanding. He said, just know his understanding came with a price.

Brook told Chase that giving up her child made her respect the adoptive process more. Her son went to people who wanted him and would give him all their love. She’d always prayed for a chance to pay it forward and give a child a loving home. He asked how she felt about an older child, and she said, Monica and Alan adopted Emily when she was 12. Even though she remembered her biological parents, she was accepted as a Quartermaine. He said they could start looking into it. He knew there was a kid meant for them, and it didn’t matter how old they were.

Carly said it seemed like a good reason to walk away, but Lucas said nothing he’d seen made Marco look like his father. Marco didn’t lie. It had never come up. But after Brad, the last thing he needed was another man he couldn’t trust.

Alexis said she understood coming from a problematic family and Marco keeping his own life separate from his father, but Sidwell wasn’t just his father. He was also a client. Marco said, one of many, and Alexis said, true, but they preferred not to hire someone whose client wanted to kill their clients. It wasn’t good for business. Marco said the optics weren’t good, but his reputation was. JS and Associates was his father’s firm, but his father had never been involved in a criminal enterprise. He wasn’t going to distance himself from his father even if it meant losing the job. He loved his father, but hoped he’d be judged on his own merit.

Cody said Hades could easily carry both of them and it was totally safe. Safer than Molly waiting by the road for a tow that was never coming. Molly said it sounded like a horror movie, and he said a lot of them started that way. He’d bring her back to the stables and drop her off on the way to Dante’s party, or she could call a Ride Share if she didn’t want to wait. She said, okay, and brought her briefcase out of the car. He suggested she leave it, but she said she couldn’t leave legal documents there.

Sonny said he couldn’t make Rocco’s debate. Some business came up. They’d talked through it, Rocco understood, and Dante was going to record it. Olivia asked to talk to Sonny outside and they left. She said it was the first time his grandson was putting himself out there. Sonny was his grandfather and Rocco adored him. Not going wasn’t an option. Dante came out, and Olivia said she never thought she’d see the day Sonny would put work in front of family. Dante said Sonny would be there if he could, and Olivia went back inside. Dante asked if Sonny was okay, and Sonny said he was taking his pills and he was fine. Dante said he was going to tell Olivia for Rocco’s sake, but Sonny said, no. She would be mad at Rocco. Let her be mad at him. He was a big boy and could take it.

Molly sat in front of Cody on the horse and said, don’t let it gallop or jump over anything. He told her to trust him, and she said she trusted he was good with horses.

Curtis asked Jordan to promise to call him if she was up against something. He wouldn’t ask questions, but he’d be there. She promised and thanked him for understanding. He said she could count on his discretion should she need it, and she said it meant the world to her, and left.

Carly asked what Lucas was going to do, and he said he didn’t know. Think some more. She said that was progress. In the past, he’d use it as an excuse to walk away. He asked where the lecture was on his horrible taste in men who would break his heart, and she said, that would be annoying. He said she was doing unto him and Marco what she wished he’d do unto her and Jack.

Alexis said she knew how awful it felt to pay for the sins of a family you didn’t choose. Her family did horrible things she had no part of, yet she was still associated with them. They had family backgrounds in common, but walking the fine line between legality and family was trickier than he thought. At some point, he was going to have to choose between the life he’d made for himself and working for his father. Marco said, the question was, should that day come, would he be working for the firm? and she said she had to talk it over with Diane, but he should know there would be an extensive background check. He said, knock yourselves out, and left.

Chase said, they were doing this? and Brook said, they were doing this. He said he was nervous at first, but now he was excited, and she said he was going to be an amazing father. He said any kid would be lucky to have her as a mother, and they kissed. (I’m thinking they’re going to adopt Gio.)

Danny, Gio, and Rocco sat on the patio looking at their phones, and Danny said he couldn’t believe what they were saying about Sonny. Gio said they were idiots. He got into it with one of them, but they didn’t want to hear it. Danny said, be careful. They were crazy. Gio went inside to grab a soda before he wrote something he shouldn’t, and left. Danny said Rocco dodged a bullet. If both of his grandparents were here, people would be posting that it was proof Laura favored Sonny. Rocco said that was garbage, and Danny said he knew that, but it was probably best that Sonny wasn’t coming to the debate.

Dante said he was sorry this was happening before Sonny’s surgery. People were probably saying nasty stuff. Sonny said it was nothing he hadn’t heard, and Dante asked if he was planning on fighting back. Sonny said he was ready for it, but didn’t want anybody getting caught in the crossfire.

Lulu asked if Gio missed home, and Gio said, sometimes. He knew one day he’d leave to pursue his music career. His mom did. Lulu asked if she was away a lot, and Lois said, before she had Gio. Once she had him, she cut back on travel. She hated to be away from Gio. Olivia said, but she worked until the second Gio was born, and Gio said, she was in California playing a concert when she went into labor. That’s why he was born in LA.  

🫔 Friday’s Enchilada…

Sonny brings Donna to his old kitchen, and Carly says, there’s my girl. Did she have fun with daddy? Donna says, they went to Dante’s birthday party and it was great. They had to the hide cake from the boys. Carly says, sounds like a good idea. She’s glad Donna had fun. Donna says, guess what? Rocco is doing a debate. Carly asks if she knows what a debate is, and Donna says, nope, but she knows everybody is going to be there except daddy. He’s staying at home with her.

In an examining room, Isaiah tells Josslyn, no ligaments or tendons are damaged, but it’s swollen. From the scans, he can see she suffered bad sprain and aggravated it a few days later. What on earth was she doing?

At the hospital, Anna asks how Emma is doing, and Emma says, for someone about to start their first day in court mandated community service, not too bad, invigorated even. Where’s Aunt Felicia? Felicia appears and says, right here and ready to keep her busy and on task, and Emma says, Felicia is babysitting her. Felicia says, call it what Emma wants, and she will too. Ready to start? Emma says, bring it on. She practically grew up in this place and she’s very excited to start giving back, even if it’s judge ordered. Felicia says she likes this can-do attitude and knows right where to start her. Right this way. As they leave, Anna says, have fun.

On her phone in Maxie’s office, Lucy says, yes… okay. She definitely sees… okay. Thank you. She’ll be in touch. Maxie says, spit it out, and Brook says, just tell them already. Lucy says, the boutique in Los Angeles says their Deception patented overnight wrinkle cream is flying off the shelves. Brook says she’s not seeing the numbers… wait… Lucy asks if the numbers are good, and Brook says, spectacular. They’re only two weeks into Q2 and these put them in the black for the rest of the year. Lucy says, and to think they’d be scrambling for zincite if it wasn’t for their white knight at Windymere.

At Windymere, Jordan says, the pay is substantial, and Sidwell says, wait until she sees the health plan. She says, it’s a great offer, but the job description is vague. What exactly does he expect her to do for him?

Sasha looks at the sonogram screen and smiles. She puts her hand on Jason’s arm and he says, it’s amazing.

Sasha and Jason look at the sonogram, and Sasha says, ears… eyes… see that? Jason says he does. Almost fully developed. Does she feel okay? She says, better than okay, and he says, good. It might be none of his business… She says, if it is, she’ll tell him to butt out, and he says he knows her due date is a few weeks away. Does she have a birth plan in place? She says she does, but look who’s in the know? and he says he’s had some experience. Some of his closest friends are women. Sasha says she hopes she’s one of them, and he says, the chances are pretty good. They are having a baby together. Would she mind if he sent the sonogram picture to Michael so he can see the baby’s progress? She asks why he’d want to do that.

Josslyn tells Isaiah that she rolled her ankle hiking in Easter Island. Then a week later, they had a research trip that included a 10 mile walk on the beach. Isaiah says, and she powered through, and she says, yeah. She didn’t want to wuss out in front of people. He says, that sounds right. He’s never been to Easter Island and bets it’s amazing. Josslyn says, it was. Sometimes she can hardly believe she was really there. He says, now that she’s back – he hands her a prescription paper – call this guy. Six weeks of PT and please stay off her ankle. Josslyn thanks him and says she’ll do her best.

Anna says she’s got to get back to the precinct, but Felicia asks if she has a second. It’s about Mac. Anna asks if everything is okay, and Felicia says, Mac is deeply concerned about the referendum. He thinks it’s going to tank Laura’s mayorship. Anna says, he’s not wrong. If only the city realized they’re better with having Laura as a mayor. Felicia says, what about Anna? Police Commissioner is a mayoral appointee. Given the optics, isn’t she worried about her position being secure if Laura is still in office? Anna says, 100%, especially with Justine Turner breathing down her neck, and Felicia says she doesn’t get it. Why is ADA Turner so determined to tear Anna down?

Emma comes out looking bedraggled with gum in her hair, and Josslyn says, wow. She loves the new look.

Brook says, sales have skyrocketed, and Enchantment hasn’t even gotten their skin cream to market, and Lucy says, eat your heart out. Erica Kane. Maxie says she’s got to hand it to Lucy. She had reservations about Sidwell at first, but he came through just in time. Lucy thanks her and says she’s right. It was one of her more inspired ideas, bringing Jenz into their fold. She’ll see them later. Brook says, they still have work, and Lucy says, as does she. Ta! She leaves.

Sidwell says as far as he’s concerned, Jordan’s title can be whatever she likes – CEO, CMO, CFO – he doesn’t care. Jordan says, those are each very different things and very different responsibilities, and he says, what he needs her to do is represent his interest to Port Charlies. She’s in a position that’s unique and ideally suited to do so. She says, because? and he says, personally and professionally she has relationships with the most important people in town. She’s good friends with the Police Commissioner and the mayor and Congressman Drew Cain. Jordan says, the extent of her relationship with Drew is largely negative, but he says he’s sure it can be repaired and renewed. She says, outside of the job, she and Laura aren’t particularly close, but that could work to their advantage. He says he likes that. Is there any chance she could renew her friendship with Drew? She says, he can’t pay her enough.

Carly asks, who’s going to Rocco’s debate? and Donna says, Dante, Kristina, Danny, Aunt Olivia, and Rocco’s grandma. Carly says, that’s a lot of people, and Donna asks if she can go too. Carly says she knows Donna wants to, but she’ll have way more fun with her dad, and Sonny says, her big brother Dante is going to take a video. They should get together one night and watch it. Donna nods, and Carly says, that sounds like a great idea. Say goodbye to daddy. Pilar is upstairs waiting to take her to school. Donna hugs Sonny and says she loves him, and he says he loves her too. Donna leaves, and Carly says, so he’s going to miss Rocco’s big night. He says he’s got his reasons, and she asks if they have anything to do with Laura.

Jason says he’s not sure he understands. Sasha asked him to send Michael a sono a month ago. She says she’s worried if she sends every one of them, it might send the wrong message, but he says he doesn’t think it will. Michael understands she wants to raise the baby on her own and he agreed. She says, if she includes him in every step, he might want to be involved more, but she thinks what she needs is the opposite. He says he understands, but thinks it would help Michael. He’ll be glad to see she and the baby are happy and healthy. She says she doesn’t know, but she’ll think on it, and he says, of course (🍷). He’s got things to do. Can he drop her at her house? She says she drove here. He doesn’t have to… She’s really glad he came today. He says him too, and leaves.

Sidwell says he’s sure Jordan’s distaste for Drew is more than justified. But Drew is more than a powerful man and they should have him on their side. Plus, her new position will give her the perfect view to keep an eye on him. She says she doesn’t know if she wants to watch Drew, but she’ll check in now and again. He says he’s sure she’s done far worse for far less. So do they have a deal? She says she’ll have her lawyer look it over, and he says, good. She says, it’s a generous offer, one might say excessively so, and he says, it’s charming that she thinks such a thing exists. He warns her, in exchange for her excessive salary, the job is going to be demanding on her intelligence, energy, and time. There will be precious little room left for her personal life. She says, what personal life? when Lucy strolls in. She says, the butler let her in… She tells Jordan, hi. What are you doing here?

Sonny and Carly admire the moss bowl 🎍, and Sonny says, at the party, he overheard Rocco tell Dante that he didn’t want him at the debate for Laura’s sake. Carly says she’s sorry, but he says he can’t blame Rocco. He’s protecting his grandmother. She says, still, it had to hurt, and he says, yeah, but Rocco’s not wrong. Plus, that idiot Boyle is gunning for Laura. She says, the last thing Laura needs is her picture with him splashed on the cover of The Invader, and he says he values his friendship with Laura and loves that they share this family, but their connection is a liability for her. So he’s going to steer clear. She says she hates that he has to miss Rocco’s debate, but he says he saw Rocco practice. It’s important. The last thing Rocco needs is to be overshadowed by politics. She says, aren’t all debates political? and he says she knows what he means. She says, for what it’s worth (🍷), she thinks he’s doing the right thing, and he says he’d do anything for Rocco. And if Laura needs help, he’ll be there. She asks if he means that, and he says, what does she mean? She says, if he really wants to help Laura, he needs to get out of her way.

Emma says she was helping in art therapy, and Josslyn says, it looks like things got a little messy. Emma says, a little bit. A couple of children, very small children, not almost ready to drive children, did this to her. Apparently, kids in the hospital expect a lot today. She was the canvas. Josslyn says she’s impressed that Emma found time to volunteer, between school and her animal rights group. Emma thanks her, but says, full disclosure. This is not volunteering per se. It’s community service. Josslyn says, for the incident at the Quartermaine crypt? Emma was awesome by the way. Emma says, a huge thank you to Trina for live streaming. She’s a rock star. Josslyn says, she always is. But doesn’t it seem a little blown out of proportion for protecting a family’s crypt? Especially since they ended up in the right. Emma says, the judge wasn’t happy with her priors, and Josslyn says, she has priors? Who would have thought she had a shady past? Emma says, not everybody has a millionaire daddy to buy them out of trouble, and Josslyn says she touched a nerve. Emma says, actually, she has no bandwidth for this right now. She has to get some gum out of her hair. She leaves, and Josslyn sees Professor Dalton go by with a briefcase.

Sonny tells Carly, don’t talk to him about the referendum. He’s heard about it so many times, it’s ridiculous. She says, sorry, but she’s going to pile on it again. Don’t fight this. He says, is she asking what he thinks she’s asking? She says she is, and don’t try to convince people to vote no or challenge it in court if he doesn’t win. He says he can’t just let the city take what belongs to him, and she says, if he fights, he’ll ruin his relationship with Laura. He says he didn’t know Carly was a fan, and she says, Laura is a good businesswoman and a great mayor. It won’t destroy him if he gives up the piers. He can afford to let them win. He says, that’s beside the point. It’s not going to happen. If he doesn’t lift a finger to stop it, his enemies will think he’s weak, and she knows how dangerous that can be.

Lucy says she was sorry to hear what happened between Jordan and the mayor. Laura couldn’t ask for a better Deputy Mayor. Jordan thanks her and says she still has the greatest respect for Laura, and Lucy says, who doesn’t? Jordan says, but it was time to part company, and Lucy asks if that’s what she’s doing here, looking for new company. Sidwell laughs and says, Jordan is going to work for him. Port Charles’ loss is his gain. Jordan tells him that she hasn’t said yes yet, and he says, no, but she will. Lucy says, so good. Greener pastures await. She can speak from experience. Jordan says, good to hear, and tells Sidwell, they’ll speak soon. She leaves and Sidwell asks why Lucy is here. Lucy says, their innovative product sold out, and he says he heard. She says she thinks he means… this, and holds up a jar of the cream. He says, isn’t that elegant? and she says, it’s what customers have come to expect. This is from the first batch, made from his zincite. She thinks he should have it. She hands it to him and says she’s not saying he needs it. He has perfect dermis. Their whole project was a huge success. They’re up to their eyeballs in people waiting to order more. He wonders if they should open some champagne, and she says, on an occasion like this, doesn’t he think it’s always bubbly time? He says he’ll call for a bottle, and she says, do, but they have business to discuss first, about when they can roll out the next shipment. He says, they’ll want more zincite, and she says, that’s why she invited their CFO to over the details. He says, having Natalia there will make things simple. She always a great head for business. Lucy says, sorry. Always? He says, yes. Natalia is his ex-wife.  

In the solarium, Sasha asks if Olivia has any requests for lunch, and Olivia says, the cook’s choice is fine. They’ve got to talk about when Sasha is planning her maternity leave. Sasha says she hasn’t thought about it much. How would maternity leave work? Olivia says, you have a baby, skip work, and take care of your baby. In her case, she’ll also have to fight off the lunatics trying to hold her baby. Sasha asks if it won’t be awkward, living here for a few months and not being the cook, but Olivia says, not at all. She’s family. She hired Sasha because she knew Sasha could handle the lunatics in this asylum. She never guessed Sasha would fit in as perfectly as she has. Sasha asks if Olivia is calling her crazy, and Olivia says, in the nicest possible way. Sasha is so great with the kids, and she’s got the adults trained perfectly. She can dish it out to Tracy faster than Tracy can serve it. It’s truly a thing of beauty. Sasha says, scorn is Tracy’s love language, and Olivia says, she gets them. To her, that means Sasha is well on her way to becoming a true Quartermaine.

Emma says, task one done and Anna is still here, and Anna asks, how did it go? Emma says, they got more paint on the paper than her. She takes that as a win. Felicia says, victory. Her next class will be easier. Emma says, great. More painting? Felicia says, paper mâché, and Emma says, cold, smelly, stick, and wet. Kids love that… So does she. Felicia says, have fun, and Emma says, try and stop her. She leaves, and Felicia says she thinks doing community serviced is doing Emma a world of good… Anna says, but? and Felicia says, Mac hinted that some shady circumstances led to it. Anna says, Turner practically admitted she used Emma to come at her, and Felicia asks why the ADA is coming at her. Anna says, Turner thinks Jason is behind Cyrus’s disappearance and she’s covering for him, and Felicia says, that’s ridiculous. Anna would never cover for Jason. Anna says she wouldn’t, but Turner believes she’s giving Jason special treatment… What? Felicia says, Anna wouldn’t cover for Jason, but she does give him special treatment.

Maxie says her email is blowing up. Orders from boutiques, department store chains… Brook says, now they just have to keep up with the demand. There’s a knock at the door, and Jason comes in. Brook asks if everything is okay at home, and Jason says, everything’s fine. Sonny asked him to come by. An employee has been lying to them for months and may have compromised their entire company. Maxie says, oh my God. Who? Jason says, Natalia Ramirez, but Brook says, Natalia’s been great. Maxie asks what Natalia lied about, and Jason says, her ex-husband is Jenz Sidwell.

Anna tells Felicia that there are instances when she’s lied for Jason, but they were special circumstances. She’s made it clear to Jason and others that if he’s implicated in a crime, she will not look the other way. Felicia says she knows Anna wouldn’t let it slide, and Anna says, Turner doesn’t. And to get her own way, she’s holding Emma’s freedom over her head. Felicia says, she wouldn’t dare do that if Robert was still here, and Anna says, who knows where he is? He’s looking after Holly and her latest catastrophe. Felicia says, Robert’s absence is all the more reason for Laura to stay in office. The more people Anna has in her corner, the better. Felicia’s phone dings, and she says, sorry. There’s something she needs to take care of upstairs. Do what she needs to do. Anna tells Felicia to do the same and leaves.  

Lucy asks if she heard correctly. Sidwell and Natalia were married? He says, it was a long time ago. In fact, they have a grown son. When they first met at the Deception meeting and he saw his former wife, it was all he could do to hide his shock. She says she’s not trying to hide hers, and he says he’d assumed Natalia told them, so he thought he’d do the same. Lucy asks if he didn’t find it odd, and he says, of course (🍷) he did, but he assumed Natalia would tell them the moment he left. Lucy says, one would think that, and he says, now that they’re collaborating, going forward, she can be sure of full transparency. Natalia walks in and says she heard they sold out… What’s going on? Lucy says, nothing. She was going over some details with Natalia’s ex-husband. Why didn’t she say anything? Natalia says she didn’t think it was relevant, and Lucy says, not relevant? Natalia says, when the deal was finished, she was going to tell them when they were all together, but Lucy says, after all this time. Really? Sidwell says, please, calm down. He for one is comfortable having Natalia there. Lucy says she’s sure he is, but he’s the only one. He says, nothing has changed except for the fact they now know a personal detail that happened a long time ago, a very long time ago. He hopes they can move forward from this.

Brook says, so they’re all on the same page, their CFO used be married to one of their primary suppliers and they’re just finding this out now. Jason says, yes, and Maxie says, it was going so well. Brook says, Sonny insisted on bringing her on. Did he know about this? Jason says, he just found out, and Brook says, Natalia played Sonny. That takes skill and guts. Maxie says she knew she couldn’t trust Sidwell, and Brook says, but he had the zincite and had it at the right price. Maxie says, maybe, but Sidwell was throwing out red flags and this is the last one. She’s not working with him again. She doesn’t care what Sasha says. Jason asks what Sasha said, and Maxie says, Sasha told them the whole kidnapping thing was really Holly’s fault, so it was okay if Deception worked with him. She thanks Jason for coming by to tell them, and he says, they’re welcome. He leaves and Brook says she’ll tell Tracy later. She’ll probably want to end their association with Sidwell. Maxie says she couldn’t agree more, but Brook says she doesn’t know how iron clad their deal is. Maxie says, nothing is iron clad.

Sasha tells Olivia, don’t take this the wrong way, but do they consider her family because her baby is a Quartermaine? Olivia says she knows the last thing Sasha wants is to be dragged into the family’s crazy drama. That’s the way she and Ned first got together. As much as she loved Ned, she always felt like someone was looking down on her, especially Tracy. Sasha says she can’t imagine why, and Olivia says, to top it off, Tracy didn’t come to the wedding. She was sure Tracy was boycotting it, then she got this note – she gets a paper – welcoming her and Leo to the family. Sasha reads it and says, wow. She had no idea Tracy could be so warm. Olivia says, compassionate and kind, and Sasha says, all of the above. Olivia’s been carrying this around how many years? Olivia says, eight. Every time the family puts her to her wit’s end, she takes it out, looks at it, and remembers that the Quartermaines can be picky, snobby, and downright cruel, but if they choose you, it’s not because of who your mother is or that they fell in love with your baby. It’s because you earned it. We might be dysfunctional, but we take care of our own. Whether she likes it or not, Sasha is one of their own now.

Josslyn follows Dalton as he goes into a lab. She listens at the door.

Carly says she’s all too familiar with the risk of looking weak, and Sonny says he knows she is. She says, it will look worse if he fights the referendum and loses, but he says, it’s a risk he doesn’t plan on losing. She says he can’t guarantee he’ll win. He needs to find another way to show he’s strong. He says, they’ll think he doesn’t want to go up against Laura. His family’s safety is first. She says, he can’t give that as an excuse, but he says, it’s not an excuse. If it was, their son wouldn’t be in a burn clinic across the world, and he wouldn’t have to book a doctor’s appointment across the country. She asks what he’s talking about, and he says he has a problem with his heart.

Dalton comes out, leaving the briefcase inside. He closes the door and walks down the hall, and Josslyn follows.

Maxie tells Anna that the conducted numerous background checks, and Sidwell’s name never came up, even though Natalia is his ex. Brook says, they needed her, but it never came up. Anna says, for whatever reason, it was scrubbed or destroyed, and Maxie says, for whatever reason, they need to tear up their contract with Sidwell. Brook says, Anna’s not a lawyer, and Maxie says she knows that. Maybe Anna can help them find some hard evidence to prove he violated the contract. Maybe from the events that happened in Africa. Maybe she can dig up some dirt to kick Sidwell to the curb. Anna says, that’s the worst idea ever, and Maxie says, give her one reason why. Anna says, Lucy Coe.

Lucy says, they stood up for Natalia and this is how she repays them? and Natalia says she swears she never meant… Lucy says, do not speak. Don’t bother. Her days are numbered. Lucy leaves, and Natalia says, what the hell? Sidwell asks why she’s angry with him. If she’d disclosed this in the first place, none of this would have happened. She says, he knew they didn’t know, and he says, it’s a tempest in a teapot. Once they’re over the initial shock, her colleagues will understand. They haven’t had anything to do with each other for years. She says, it won’t alter them or Sonny. He says, she told Sonny? and she says, yes, and he’s out for blood.  

Carly asks when the episodes started, and Sonny says, around the first of the year. She says she’s just hearing about it now? and he says he wanted to keep a tight circle of the people who knew. She asks, who knows? and he says, Dr. Gannon is treating him. Jason, Brick, Laura, Kristina found out and told Dante. She says, yeah, it’s a tight circle he’s got there, and he says, and Natalia. She found him when he was having an attack. Carly asks if he trusts Natalia, and he says, not anymore

Jordan taps Isaiah on the shoulder, and he says, this is a surprise. She says, there’s more where that came from, and he says she has to make an appointment. These days, he’s operating out of a cozy, discrete-type place across town, and he happens to have appointment available at 7:30. She says she can’t. She’ll be too busy. He says she’s never been busier than when she was unemployed, and she says she decided to take a new job. He says, great. What’s the gig? She says, Chief Officer of Operations for Sidwell, and he says, she can’t be serious.

Dalton leaves the hospital, and Josslyn follows. She takes out her phone and sends a text: Spotted r friend from school. Fill u in later. (We don’t see who she’s texting, but I assume it’s Vaughn.)

Anna tells Maxie, say she gives them damning evidence against Sidwell. If and when Lucy finds out… Brook says, Anna thinks she’ll tip off Sidwell, and Anna says she thinks Lucy will tell him out of a misguided feeling of loyalty or attraction. Brook says, Lucy is definitely into Jenz Sidwell. And she’s a terrible liar. Maxie says, she can’t not lie, and Anna says, she’ll place herself and them is Sidwell’s crosshairs. Brook asks what they can do. They can’t stay in business with Sidwell. Anna says, they just have to sit tight and carry on like nothing is wrong, and Maxie tells her, easier said than done. Anna says, they can try. She promises to take care of this.

Felicia says, rough first day? and Emma says, a little bit, yeah. She’s carrying a big, black garbage bag, and Felicia asks if she needs help. Emma says she’s got it. She needs to throw it in the dumpster before it inevitably springs a leak and paint goes everywhere.

Isaiah says he knows Jordan needs to get close and he wants Sidwell brought down as much as anyone. But dinner was dangerous enough. Working for Sidwell is on a new level. Jordan says, that’s how undercover ops work. You have to put yourself inside to find evidence. He asks if she’s considered the possibility that Sidwell is already onto her. Maybe she’s not playing Sidwell. Maybe he’s playing her. She says, he’ll like her better when Sidwell is prosecuted, but she has to find evidence to take Sidwell down. He says, what about them and what they have? and she says, what they have has to end. (Aww! I like them as a couple.)  

Sasha tells Jason that she’s been thinking about what he said, showing Michael the latest sonogram. If he thinks it’s a good idea, she’s okay with it… What is it? He says, how could she sell out to Sidwell?

Sidwell asks how Sonny reacted when Natalia told him, and she says, he severed their relationship. He asks, what exactly was their relationship? and she says, it was professional. Sonny is a majority investor in Deception and made her CFO, but she doesn’t see that lasting much longer. He says, forgive him for asking, but is their professional relationship the reason they went to LA on a bus trip to a cardiologist?  Natalia says, he had them followed, and he says, enlighten him. Don’t tell him that she’s protecting Sonny’s secrets after he cut her loose. At this point, he’s the only one who can protect her, and Sonny will make damn sure she’s out at Deception.

The moss bowl 🎍 between them, Carly wonders why Natalia didn’t tell Sonny, and he says, it doesn’t matter. She kept it from him, and he can’t trust her. Carly asks what he’s going to do about his heart, and he says, Brick found a cardiologist in LA. He’s one of the best, and the surgery is scheduled for next Friday. She says, what? and he says, just in and out. She says, okay, and he says, when he gets back, they can go over the referendum stuff or whatever together. She says she’ll make sure of it, and he asks what she means. She says she’s going with him to LA and she’s going to be with him for the whole surgery.

Sidwell says, on the remote chance Natalia is staying at Deception, she’ll need his backing. All he needs is a morsal of information. He found out her reunion with Marco was as bad as it could get. She says she’s not discussing Marco with him, and he says, she should. He doesn’t want her son estranged from his mother. Natalia asks if he thinks she does, and he says he and Marco have a wonderful relationship. He could speak on her behalf and perhaps Marco would be more open to having his mother back in his life. He knows how pain she feels being estranged. Almost as much as being estranged from her daughter. He and Marco have grown close. If she could just help him a little bit, he’ll see what he can do. Natalia says, Sonny went to a cardiologist because he needs open heart surgery.

On Monday, Josslyn asks why Emma is always so angry with her; Jordan tells Isaiah that Sidwell needs to be stopped and she’s in a position to do that; Sidwell says Alexis would be a fool not to hire Marco; and Lucas asks if Marco knew who he was and that he lived in Port Charles.

🧼 All the Soap News Fit To Print…

The professor is in.

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/daniel-goddard-cast-on-general-hospital-as-professor-dalton

One person’s villain can be another person’s hero. I like it!

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/ghs-adrian-anchondo-on-marcos-relationship-with-sidwell

Even Drew hates Drew right now.

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/cameron-mathison-on-being-hated-by-soap-fans

He’s in it for the long haul.

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/maurice-benards-special-anniversary-message-to-fans

Extra gigs.

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/ghs-kate-mansi-shares-a-peek-at-her-upcoming-movie

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/gh-alum-kimberly-mccullough-lands-a-new-movie

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/the-story-behind-will-trents-gh-crossover

Here’s hoping the show sticks around. I love how oddly old-fashioned it is, yet they can stick an alarming number of trendy words and phrases into an episode. And the fashion. It’s no surprise there was an article on it. I only wish they’d included where the clothes are purchased.

https://www.tvinsider.com/1183786/beyond-the-gates-ratings-2025/

💉 A Dose Of Reality…

Below Deck Down Under

More boatmance! More terminations!

I might have to start actually watching this.

Real Housewives of Beverly Hills

Dorit baited Sutton, then the mean girls jumped on Sutton. No surprise. Ho-hum. The visit to Reba was probably my favorite thing this season, and we strolled down Stell Magnolia Memory Lane. Garcelle gave the most profound comment about Sutton’s search for validity via her mother – once they’re gone, you don’t get answers. It was the usual rehash of old fights and getting mad all over again, especially since they’d now seen the show. At the end, Andy asked what surprised them this season, and to no one’s surprise, Kathy said, what was the question again? Garcelle walked out when they were about to take a cast photo and in her dressing room, she said they were all f***ing a-holes. She’s not wrong. Although she forgot she was having dinner – or rather, supper – with Sutton, who wandered around looking for her. I fully expected her to ask if that meant they weren’t having dessert.

Not much here, but it is LVP.

The Valley

This show is hard to watch for obvious reasons – Jax and Jax. While it’s nice to see Britany finally stand up for herself, I’ve wondered from the beginning why she felt the need to be with this neanderthal. Even though she seems to enjoy being on the D-list, she doesn’t strike me as someone who’s in it for the TV exposure. I still don’t have all the other couples straight or the beefs between them. Kristen was vindicated, having been right about who was zooming who, but she doesn’t get that it’s the delivery.

Summer House

It was Lindsay’s birthday and she was 24 28 30 38. We also continued to watch the demise of Paige and Craig’s relationship. Although I keep telling Lexi, no, just no, when it comes to Jesse, she keeps insisting on gaslighting herself into believing he can keep in the parameters of a commitment. Schwartz also showed up, which makes me wonder if Sandoval is going to try and sneak in the back door.

Random Reality Items

So how many tweets (X’s?) do you think Adrienne got with #HumanStain on them?

It’s kind of a shame, but Schwartz could have put on his big boy pants and stepped up.

I’m with Lisa. She was essentially a kid in an age group where we all make asses of ourselves in one way or another.

👀 Last Weekend’s Watch…

The Deep House. Netflix. Coolest haunted house ever. A man-made lake has covered an evacuated town, but one house’s inhabitants still aren’t gone. Two divers unwisely decide to investigate and end up in a maze of ghostly happenings. The two actors playing the divers carry most of the film and their work is top-notch. The setting is unbelievable, from the underwater house to the fish making occasional appearances. There are both jump scares and slow burns, and while there are cliché moments, this film is unique overall and well worth watching. I wasn’t happy with the ending, but I’m a little picky and you can’t have everything.  

https://www.themirror.com/entertainment/tv/netflix-fans-advise-dont-watch-630856

The atmosphere was everything.

https://www.slashfilm.com/645916/the-deep-house-review-the-directors-of-inside-revitalize-the-haunted-house-movie-by-sinking-it-underwater/

Bad Influence. Netflix. I’d never heard of these kids, but I find it disturbing nonetheless since children can so easily be influenced by the internet. There’s also the flipside where parents are exploiting their children for a buck, which is the focus of this three-episode documentary. Even worse is a momager who abuses the children in her daughter’s posse in disgusting ways. A cautionary tale.

https://people.com/netflix-docuseries-bad-influence-trailer-exclusive-11694701

https://www.netflix.com/tudum/articles/bad-influence-where-are-tiffany-smith-piper-rockelle-now

The OA. Netflix. A two-season series of 8 episodes each, I’ve only just started watching this, but it’s intriguing. A blind girl disappears and returns as a woman with her sight intact. The twist is that she has a second sight that seems to look into other dimensions. Like I said, I’ve only started watching it, but I’ve seen enough to keep me coming back. Unfortunately, I’ve read that the viewer is left hanging at the end as the cancelation was unexpected. It’s one of the things I hate about getting invested in a series. I’ve been disappointed a few times when a third season is in the works, and then the streaming service decides it’s not.

https://www.themirror.com/entertainment/tv/shows-like-severance-oa-netflix-934695

https://www.vox.com/culture/2016/12/17/13903980/the-oa-review-netflix

Black Mirror: Season 7. Netflix. Because, so much to stream, so little time, I’ve only seen the first three episodes, so I’m waiting until I’m done to do a blow-by-blow assessment. I will say, Hotel Reverie made me cry.

https://www.cbr.com/black-mirror-season-7-viewership-numbers-score/

https://www.cbr.com/black-mirror-season-7-best-episodes/

🐾  As It Should Be…

🦕 I would definitely love to see this. I love capybaras, and I doubt they’d eat someone’s dog, especially since they’re herbivores. Like that dinosaur in Jurassic Park.

https://people.com/capybaras-taking-over-a-gated-community-11718000

🪿 I wonder if I could get my husband to bring back an axolotl the next time he goes to Arby’s.

https://people.com/man-leaves-to-get-his-wife-lunch-then-comes-back-with-a-duckling-exclusive-11715589

🐶 How badly do you think that dog with the Easter Bunny wants to escape? That reminds me, the bunny ears are upstairs…

https://moderndogmagazine.com/articles/happy-easter/

Ralph, no longer with us, but the ears live on

🐳 Quotes of the Week

Aerodynamically, the bumble bee shouldn’t be able to fly, but the bumble bee doesn’t know it so it goes on flying anyway. – Mary Kay Ash

Confidence comes not from always being right, but from not fearing to be wrong. – Peter McIntyre

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

This whole world is wild at heart and weird on top. – David Lynch

Wrong turns are as important as right turns. More important, sometimes. – Richard Bach

In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity. – Albert Einstein

Believe you can and you’re halfway there. – Theodore Roosevelt

Go interview him about the history of the history of the history of leaves falling off trees. – Hilaria Baldwin to the producers about Alec, The Baldwins

🐇 Hippity Hopping Into the Weekend…

Until next week, stay safe; stay not eating that whole big chocolate rabbit (you will be sorry); and stay believing in yourself. Then other people will believe in you.

March 14, 2025 – GH Weekdays, Charlotte Comes Home, Soap Suds, This Week’s Reality, Weekend Watch, Wild In the Wild, 4+4 Quotes & Cheap Seats

Standard

What I Watched Today

(The whole GH enchilada & entertainment minutiae on Fridays)

General Hospital

🥢 Weekday Bites:

Monday:

Isaiah said he’d leave if Jordan wanted, and she said she didn’t want, but he had a problem with her investigating Sidwell. He said he’d prefer she stay away, but she said Sidwell liked her, giving her an advantage law enforcement didn’t have. If their being together hinged on the investigation, she guessed that was it. Dante asked Maxie about James, and she said it was a clean break, and they were good until James did something else stupid. Dante said he needed her help with Lulu. He was worried she was going to get in a situation she couldn’t get out of. Brook said Lulu was willing to step on lives regardless of consequences. Telling Dante would blow up lives. At the Quartermaine family crypt, Tracy promised her parents to protect the Quartermaine legacy, but Drew was outside with a county surveyor and a demolition guy. (FYI: That’s not how any of this works.) Drew told the guy to blow it up, and Martin said they’d best make sure they could back up their claims. Drew wished he could see Tracy’s face when she found out, when Tracy came out of the crypt and asked what was going on. Ned asked why Lois was okay with Gio becoming Sonny’s charity case, but she said Gio was family. In Buenos Aires, Anna and Jason did surveillance on Valentin, but there was no sign of Charlotte. Anna said, if they were in there, they were alone. Inside with the curtain’s drawn, Charlotte said she didn’t like it there, but Valentin said they weren’t staying long. It was time they said goodbye. Jason said they had a fifteen-minute window to get Charlotte and get out when the guards changed, but Anna thought it was too easy.

Ned said taking money from Sonny came with a risk, but Lois said it was minimal and Gio wasn’t alone. It took Sonny’s financial support to make sure Gio’s talent was cultivated. Ned asked why Lois hadn’t come to him instead of Sonny. Martin said the building had been seized and should be vacated, Drew adding that they had a court order. Tracy ripped it up and said she was calling the police, but Drew said the law was on their side. Dante said Maxie knew something, but Maxie said Lulu wasn’t returning her phone calls and Martin had no clue Lulu had broken into his hotel room. Dante said he didn’t want to know. Lulu was out of control. Brook told Lulu that her son was an adult by now and might not know he was adopted. It was the child’s choice if they wanted to know their birth parents, not hers, Dante’s, or Lulu’s. If Dante knew, he would want to find his child. Lulu said, give him that standing. Drew said it was public land, and Tracy called her surveyor. Drew said, as congressman, he’d gotten someone to protect the public interest. Edward had to steal public land, even though he already had plenty. The area was protected, and Tracy wasn’t getting her way. Emma and Gio showed up, and Emma said, leave the old lady alone. Valentin told Charlotte that this was his fault. They were a good team, but it was dangerous for her to stay with him. He’d texted Rocco pretending to be her, and Lulu was probably on her way already. Charlotte admitted missing Lulu, but didn’t want to leave him. Anna said Valentin had to know the WSB was looking for him after attacking Jack, and Jason said he was expecting them. She said he was expecting someone, when a car pulled in. Anna said that meant the WSB was there, and they had to move. Isaiah said he accepted Jordan’s terms and asked if she’d walk away the second they disagreed. She joked that it depended on the disagreement, but no. He said they’d need to do grocery shopping then.

Drew said the Quartermaines had appropriated public land, and Tracy was interfering with county business. The mausoleum was on protected land. Tracy said she was being denied access to her parents’ final resting place. Emma said Edward had saved her life, and Drew said he was Congressman Drew Quartermaine. Tracy said, Cain. He would never be a Quartermaine. Emma said none of them had jurisdiction and were trespassing, and Tracy called Chase. Lois said Ned was generous, but Sonny didn’t have family or support growing up. He had a good heart, and it was up to Gio who supported him. Gio ran in and told Lois and Ned what was going on at the crypt. Drew said Lulu kept tearing into Brook and he had to defend Brook, but it hurt Lulu. He’d asked Lulu to have patience, but she’d said he was taking Brook’s side. The problem was, they couldn’t talk anymore. Maxie said, because of Sam, and Dante said he was trying to keep the family together. Something was going on with Rocco too. He thought it was the tension between him and Lulu. Brook said she’d do anything to protect her son’s happiness, but Lulu said Brook just didn’t want Dante to hate her. Brook said she’d choose her child’s happiness over all. Lulu had always been threatened by her relationship with Dante, and she should ask herself if exposing Brook to Dante was worth hurting him. How could he miss a son he didn’t know he had? It was agony for her and if Lulu told Dante, Lulu would subject him to the same agony she’d lived with for 21 years. Dante would try to find their son, like Lulu did with Charlotte. Where did that leave Rocco? He knew his dad was there for him, but he’d be abandoned both parents. Charlotte asked if Valentin was letting them find him, and Valentin said she deserved a better life. Anna ran in with Jason and said the kill squad was behind them. Take Charlotte and go.

Tracy told Chase to arrest the trespassers, but Drew said the county surveyor’s preliminary findings shows a portion of the property extended beyond the property line. Tracy said her surveyor found differently, and Emma asked if they had to tear down the crypt. Drew said they could move it, but Tracy thought that was obscene. Gio asked, what was the difference? and Martin said the land was protected and it was illegal to build. Tracy said Drew hated the family, and Emma said he was abusing his power. She started to film and told Drew that he should be helping his constituents instead of traumatizing them. Lulu told Brook not to throw her son in her face, and Brook said she lived with him. When Lulu was in Prague, he was afraid she’d get hurt. He’d just gotten his mom back and she left him again. Lulu said Brook was using her kid to justify lying about her own son. It was lucky she’d given him up and a good thing she was nobody’s mother. Brook took a swing at her, but Lulu grabbed her hand. Dante said Rocco had been struggling since Lulu woke up, and ever since she went to Prague, he was terrified that he was going to lose her. He couldn’t talk to Lulu, but he could talk to Brook, which didn’t make Lulu less mad. For fifteen years, their feud had been going on. Maxie said it wasn’t because of that. Lulu was still in love with him. Anna said, let her handle the WSB, and told Jason not to fire his weapon. Valentin made himself scarce, when two guys arrived. Anna told them that she was the Police Commissioner of Port Charles, New York. Don’t shoot. They asked where Valentin was, and she said he’d just left. One guy told the other to search, but Anna told them to call Jack. The guy said Jack wasn’t running the op.

Anna said, the mission had changed, and they needed to talk to Brennan. Since they obviously weren’t buying it, Jason grabbed one guy, knocking him out, and Anna took care of the other. She thought Valentin was long gone, but he came out with Charlotte and said, not this time. Drew said Tracy wasn’t a downtrodden member of his constituency, but an entitled bully used to getting what she wanted. Tracy said he was using his public office to retaliate against the family that threw him out. Still filming, Emma said, congress was in session now, yet Drew was still here. Your votes in action, Port Charles. Lois and Ned arrived, and Lois said she thought Drew’s constituents had bigger problems. Drew was there when Alexis and Martin tried to work this out, and Tracy had been willing to bend. Drew said he was following the law, and Tracy said his surveyor’s findings were preliminary, yet he got an order without confirmation to seize the building. Emma continued to film. Isaiah showed Jordan how buy groceries online since they had to stay in, and he promised to make cooking with him worth her while. Her phone rang and it was Ned. Dante said Lulu was going to marry Dustin, but Maxie said, the night of the explosion, Lulu broke things off because she was still in love with Dante. Lulu told her and was about to tell him, when she collapsed. She wasn’t telling Dante now and instead, pushing him away and trying hard not to love him. Classic Lulu. Dante said, Lulu had been gone so long, he fell for Sam, and Maxie said Lulu didn’t want him to know. She thought Dante needed to be patient with her. Lulu was doing the best she could. Brook cried as she told Lulu that she was a mother. She went through 12 hours of labor and gave her baby to a stranger from an adoption agency. She couldn’t even let herself hold him. She didn’t know if she’d had a boy or a girl until Lulu told her. Lulu said she was sorry. She assumed Brook knew. Brook said, and Lulu assumed it was easy for her, but it wasn’t. She loved her baby with all her heart and still did. She had to believe she gave him a better life. Lulu asked if Brook didn’t want to know for sure, and Brook said, more than anything, but not at the expense of her child’s happiness or Dante’s. If he wanted to find his birth parents, he would. Brook begged Lulu to leave it alone.

Maxie said Rocco needed both of his parents, and Dante said he knew Lulu was a great mom and she loved their son. Maxie said Lulu knew he was a great dad. They needed to come together. Rocco needed extra assurance. Lulu said she didn’t agree with any of this, but didn’t want to be the one to blow up Dante’s life or her child’s. She wasn’t going to tell Dante. She thought he should know, but thought Brook should be the one to tell him. Brook said she needed the past to stay in the past, and Lulu said Brook should know, she never would have found out if Brook’s mother hadn’t talked to her Uncle Martin. The secret wasn’t in the past. It was now. Brook said she knew, and Lulu left. Brook texted her mom that she needed to see her asap. Ned said he’d called Jordan to help him keep the peace, but Drew said there was nothing to negotiate. The law was the law. Tracy wondered why Martin said Drew was willing to drop it if she allowed him to retain the name, and Emma said, busted. Tracy said she was referring to the meeting where Lois was a witness, and Jordan said she felt Drew was provoking the family and using public funds to fight his personal battle. That wasn’t who he was. Drew asked who he was. Cain or Quartermaine? Valentin thanked Anna and said he was expecting Lulu. Anna asked if he knew about the text, and he said he sent the text. He needed charlotte to be safe. They were going to send another kill squad when the first one didn’t check in. Charlotte asked where her mom was, and Anna said she’d explain it on the way. Charlotte said she didn’t want to go with them, but Jason said he promised Rocco that he’d bring her home and that’s what was going to happen. Valentin said, je t’aime, mon petite, and Charlotte said, je t’aime, papa. He held her for a moment, and then she went out with Jason. Valentin told Anna that he felt like this was the last time he’d see her, but she said it didn’t have to be that way. Come with them and let her bring him in.

Lulu knocked at Maxie’s door, saying she needed to talk to her, but Dante answered. Charlotte asked Jason if Anna was going to kill her father, but he said she wouldn’t do that. They came to bring her home. She probably wanted to try and save Valentin too. Valentin said Anna always came through for him. He was glad he got to say goodbye. She said it didn’t have to be goodbye. Come back. They could make a plea deal. Valentin said he knew too much, and he’d tried to kill Jack. They both knew the WSB wasn’t going to let him live. For Charlotte’s sake, he was free to do what he had to do. Anna told him not to throw his life away, and he said there was a time he thought she loved him, and they were the best months of his life. She said she didn’t think she loved him, and took his hand, saying, part of her always would. He thanked her for that and told her, take care. Charlotte left with Anna and Jason. Tracy said Drew could call himself Smith for all she cared, but he’d never be a Quartermaine. Emma said Drew made his decision based on Tracy’s and had abused his position for his own petty revenge, then searched for, how to recall a congressman. Tracy said he liked that she had grit, and Gio said he did too. The surveyor tried to mark the ground, but Tracy knocked his wheelie thing out of his hand. Drew said that was assault, and Chase asked if the surveyor wanted to press charges. Because he was obviously being paid off, he looked at Martin, who nodded. Chase said he’d forego the handcuffs, told her the Miranda rights, and led her away. Back at the Quartermaines’, Brook walked into the living room and Lois followed. She said she’d gotten Brook’s text. Brook closed the door, and Lois said she looked upset. What could she do to help? Brook asked how much she hadn’t been told about the baby.

Tuesday:

Buenos Aires. Anna brought Charlotte to a room, and Charlotte said her papa was running for his life and it was all Anna’s fault. Sasha went to Carly’s office and Carly asked if she was coming to work at the MetroCourt. Sasha said she was tempted, but decided to stay at the Quartermaines, and Carly said it was Sasha’s life, and she could do what she wanted. Sasha said that was a refreshing take, and Carly asked what had changed Sasha’s mind. Portia went to Curtis’s office and said Drew was probably missing the place, but Curtis said Drew had nobody to blame but himself. At the station, Drew said he hoped there was a free cell in case nothing could be done until morning. Tracy said she didn’t touch the surveyor. It was despicable. Alan was taken way too soon, but the silver lining was, he never had to meet Drew. Laura met Martin, who said Drew was rapidly spinning out control. At the crypt, Emma said she doubted they were going to bulldoze it at night, but Gio said he was staying. Emma said she had the best idea and would be right back. Lulu said she was looking for Maxie and didn’t expect Dante to be there. Dante said James broke his arm and got a cast, so Spinelli and Maxie took him and Georgie out for ice cream as a consolation prize. He was babysitting Bailey Lou. Lulu said she wasn’t surprised, since he was an amazing father. Brook asked what Lois hadn’t told her about her child. Martin had an entire file on her baby and knew Dante was the father. Why? Gloria came in and asked, what in the Bensonhurst is going on here?

Dante told Lulu she was a great mom. It was incredible seeing her and Rocco connect again. Lulu said the last few days had been weird, like Rocco couldn’t be in the same room with her. She’d been preoccupied with finding Charlotte and wondered if Rocco felt like she was choosing his sister over him. Charlotte said she’d never forgive Anna for using her papa and driving him away, and Anna said Charlotte didn’t understand… but Charlotte said Anna had ruined their lives and she hated Anna. Jason came in and asked Anna to give them a minute. Anna left, and Jason said Anna was the reason Charlotte and her father were still alive. Portia told Curtis that she had been grateful to Drew for saving Trina, but she was astonished at how he was treating his family and friends. She didn’t think it was possible for someone to change that much, but Curtis did what needed to be done and won. Curtis said, here’s hoping, and Portia asked if he really wanted Drew as an enemy. He got what he wanted. Maybe now was the perfect time for a truce. Curtis said he wasn’t the one continuing the fight. She needed to talk to Drew. Laura asked how Drew found out about the property line, and Martin said he may or may not have mentioned it. It was his job and his duty to represent his client. Chase came out and told Laura that he’d been ordered by the congressman to lock up his wife’s grandmother in a cell. Laura asked what she could do to help. Drew said he was sick of the hypocrisy, and Tracy said she was sick of the sound of his voice, yet here they were. Drew said, after all the horrible things the Quartermaines had done, all he did was fall in love. Tracy said, falling in love was one thing, and acting on it was another. She loved the way he always left the detail out that it was his nephew’s wife. He said she held him to different standards and she said she did. He blew up Willow’s marriage, betrayed Michael’s trust, and severely hurt the woman who welcomed him with opened arms in to her home – Monica. Brook told Gloria that it was a personal legal matter, but Gloria said it was her Brook was talking to. Brook had been talking to her mother about her baby.

Emma brought chairs, blankets, and a lantern to make Gio’s stakeout more comfortable. She said Drew was a jerk, laying into poor, old Tracy, and Gio suggested she not let Tracy hear any part of that. Tracy could handle herself. Don’t jump into the Quartermaine mess. Emma said it was her thing. Her mom said she was a born crusader. Gio said at least he knew where his mom was and could visit. If someone threatened to move her, he’d be in a cell next to Tracy. Brook said, Lois had told her grandma? and Lois said she’d needed to confide in someone. She didn’t know how to navigate the situation and wanted to make sure Brook and her baby were protected. Gloria said she’d left Brook’s past in the past, and Brook asked, then why talk to a lawyer? Lois flashed back to talking to Martin and asking if it was possible for Brook to find her child. Brook said Lois had told her, everything was fine, but she wondered if that was true. It must not be, or why else would she talk to Martin? Gloria said she’d told Lois to talk to him. Martin told Laura that he was sorry. He’d wanted to use the property as a bargaining chip, so Tracy would drop the cease and desist. Laura said, now the crypt would have to be moved and asked if Chase thought the charges would stick. Chase said, they could, and Martin said she should have just given in. Laura asked if he’d met Tracy, and he asked, what was so special about the Quartermaine name? Laura said Tracy was protecting the family in the only way she knew how.

Tracy said Drew had repaid Monica’s generosity by destroying her grandson’s marriage and happiness in favor of his own. He didn’t deserve Monica’s generosity and should leave Port Charles. Drew said Tracy had been kicked out of Port Charles by the family more than once. What made her think it wouldn’t happen again. Sasha said, the truth was… and Carly said Sasha liked working for the Quartermaines. Sasha said she thought they needed her, and Carly said, of course (🍷) they did, but don’t put herself on the back burner. Sasha said she was in a better financial position. She’d negotiated her way to the beginning of a nest egg. Carly said it was an achievement, but the one thing that made her situation different from the other single mom’s – the baby’s father. Jason said Anna saved Charlotte and Valentin’s lives, but Charlotte said they didn’t need her help. Jason said Anna was the first one to warn her dad. He wanted to turn Valentin in, but Anna convinced him to give him a head start. She’s the reason he had a chance to run and she tracked Charlotte to keep her safe. Charlotte said that Anna felt guilty for shooting her, and he said that was part of it, but Charlotte was her dad’s whole world. Anna was protecting her for him. She cared about them both. Charlotte could feel however she wanted, but Anna at least deserved her respect. Charlotte asked if the WSB would have really killed them.

Jason told Anna that Charlotte was sleeping, and Anna said she needed a favor. Take Charlotte back to Port Charles in one piece. She was going to get a room and make her own way back. It was too hard for Charlotte to be around her, and it felt cruel to force it. Jason said he thought Anna was making a mistake. Portia told Curtis that she remembered the old Drew, the good guy, the hero. That’s why he ran for congress in the first place. Curtis said, Drew’s motives changed, and she agreed 100%. But maybe Curtis could afford to let him keep some of his dignity and back off. Curtis said, Drew’s reputation had been tarnished, and it wasn’t on him to fix. She said, but he didn’t need to rub it in Drew’s face. if he could accommodate Drew a tiny bit, it might work out in his favor. Curtis said he was furious with Drew, but not interested in payback. Aurora was a non-starter, but if there was a path to peace, he was here for it. As long as the terms were reasonable. She said that was all she was asking for, when Jordan came in and said she needed to speak with Curtis. The situation with Drew had gone from bad to worse. Drew was officially out of control.

Drew told Tracy that things were going to change. He was the black sheep now, but not for long. He was a Quartermaine and would get his way. Then she would be on the outside, wondering how she got there. The answer is him. Chase told Drew that the mayor would like a word. Drew went into the squad room and said he was sorry Tracy dragged Laura down there, but Martin said, that was him. Laura urged Drew to do the right thing. Stand down and drop the charges against Tracy. He asked, why? and she said, to be blunt, if he didn’t, it wouldn’t bode well for him, politically or otherwise. Dante told Lulu that he didn’t think Rocco was jealous of Charlotte. Rocco was perceptive, like Lulu, and he could see that she was worried about Charlotte and was trying to give her space. Lulu said it was strange. She was Rocco’s mother, but she’d missed a pivotal stage and was out of the loop. She knew nothing about parenting a teenage boy. Dante said parents never felt like they were doing the right thing. She and Rocco both had to make up for lost time, and she was doing it with grace, love, and patience. He wouldn’t handle be close to handling it as well. Emma said she’d bring a file if Gio and Tracy were locked up and Gio said he liked Tracy. She gave it to you straight, even if you didn’t want to hear it. And she could take as good as she gave. She actually listened to him. Emma said she thought Tracy was smart. She wished she could stay with Gio, and Gio said the lab animals couldn’t free themselves. Emma said she wanted to take him real camping, but in the meantime, stay warm. Gloria told Brook that she’d advised Lois to consult a lawyer to make sure Brook and her baby protected were protected. They’d decided on a closed adoption. Brook said, so her baby could have a happy and stable life, and Gloria said, Brook too. They wanted her to have time to grow up, fall in love, and have a family of her own. Brook said she wasn’t 16 anymore. It made sense then, but made less sense now. She needed to know who adopted her son and where he was.

Sasha said her experience with Jason was different, and Carly said Jason would never tell Sasha how to be a mother, but if she needed anything, he’d be there in a heartbeat. He was the most loyal person she knew. Don’t do him a disservice by cutting him out of the baby’s life. Sasha said the father respected her wishes and said he’d support her in any way he could. It was the second greatest gift he could give her. Curtis said he never thought he’d be sympathetic to the Quartermaines, but Portia said it was family drama. Stay out of it. Jordan said it wasn’t about the Quartermaines. It was about how Drew was abusing his power. First, he blocked the esplanade, then wanted to move it for his personal gain. Now he was focused on settling the score with his family when he needed to be doing his job – enacting laws, securing school funds, and fulfilling his campaign promises. Curtis said, public outcry was the only thing that would stop him, and Jordan said, good thing she knew the head of a media company. Curtis said he made no promises, but he’d see what he could do. Drew told Laura that he wasn’t making this up. They broke the law. The land was public, and they took it. He owed his constituents not to turn a blind eye just because they were family. Laura asked if he thought putting Tracy in jail overnight was the pathway to justice, and Martin said it seemed like more trouble than it was worth. Drew said, fine. Tracy could go home. He’d talk to the surveyor and get the charges dropped, but this was far from over. Gloria said Lois didn’t know the details, and Brook said, but Gloria did. Gloria said she hadn’t been contact since the papers were signed for the closed adoption. Brook said, what if she wanted to find him? They knew she and Chase were trying to start a family. What if she gave away the only child she was going to have? Gloria said, Brook was his birth mother. Act like it. Let the young man be. Don’t put her pain on her son. She made the right decision. Abide by it. Brook said Gloria might be right, but it didn’t feel that way now, and she left. Lois told Gloria that Brook couldn’t know Gio was her son.

Jason told Anna that the only person to blame for Valentin’s situation was Valentin. He may not get out of this one. Anna said, if Charlotte needed someone to blame, it might as well be her, but Jason said Charlotte needed an example. She saw Anna’s mistakes and saw what she did after her mistakes. She saw Anna was accountable and keeping her word. She didn’t need Anna to disappear. Anna said she wasn’t sure she could do that, and Jason said he’d never seen her run. Don’t start now. Gloria said they couldn’t tell Brook. It wasn’t fair to her or Gio. Gio knew who he was and worshiped his mother. They couldn’t take that away. Lois said, Camilla was dead. His birth mother was right here. Don’t they need each other? Brook saw Gio outside the crypt and asked what he was doing. He said his grandma got in a fight with a surveyor and Chase arrested her, and Brook said, it must have been interesting. Gio said he was standing guard, and Brook asked if she could join him. He said he’d love some company. He was keeping his word to Tracy. Why was she here? Brook said, to clear her head. Her other grandmother was here. Gio said, that’s great… unless it wasn’t, and Brook said she knew her grandmother would do anything for her. Gio said Gloria was solid and could be trusted, and Brook said she could trust her grandmother and her mom, but what they were asking her to accept was hard to live with. Lulu said she owed Dante an apology. She was short with him at the Quartermaine’s. He said he was sorry too, and she said they were acting like grown-ups. He said he didn’t think he’d made it better by defending Brook. He didn’t think he’d said enough about how it was a miracle having her back after all this time. He didn’t want to take her being here for granted. She said she needed to tell him something, when Bailey Lou started crying. He said duty called. Hold that thought.

Anna asked if Jason was calling her a coward, and he asked if she was going to run. She said she was going to see it through and keep an eye on Charlotte. Charlotte was smart, resourceful, and believed she was invincible. It was a dangerous combination and Anna thought they’d come after Valentin. He was a target and she was saving Charlotte from herself. It would be a challenge. Jason said he’d take the first watch, and Anna lied down on the couch. Sasha told Carly that she was aware she had it better than most single moms. She asked the father to step back and he didn’t fight her. Carly said that might change when the baby was born, and Sasha said she promised if she needed help from the father, she wouldn’t hesitate to ask. Portia told Curtis, let Drew implode on his own. Let Tracy handle the Quartermaines. Curtis said Drew was failing to represent the people who elected him, and that included them. He wasn’t going to stand by and watch. He got on the phone and said, Brian, rally the troops. There was going to be a big Aurora Media push to expose Drew Quartermaine’s abuse of his office. Martin said Drew was a US Congressman, and didn’t need an enemy like Tracy, but Drew said, everyone else might be afraid of Tracy, but not him. He was going to break her.

Laura asked if Tracy would like the good news or the bad news first, and Tracy said, good. Laura said Tracy could go home tonight, but she didn’t think Drew would back down. Tracy was going to have a battle on her hands. Tracy said, give her the bad news, and Laura said she felt Tracy’s parents would say, choose her battles wisely. Tracy said she was. She wouldn’t allow some grifter to steal the family name and force her to move her parents’ final resting place. If Drew wanted a battle, bring it on. Bailey Lou played with some toys and Dante said, extra play time made it even for the ice cream. He asked what Lulu wanted to say, but Lulu said she couldn’t remember. It must not have been that important. Gloria told Lois that if they told Brook that Gio was her son, it would ruin three lives – Brook’s, Dante’s, and Gio’s. Think of why they made that decision. Lois said, to protect Brook and her child, and Gloria said, nothing has changed. They needed to protect them now. Lois started to cry. Brook apologized for being cryptic, and Gio said they were at a crypt. (BA-DUM-CHH!) Brook said she trusted someone, and they didn’t tell her something they should have. She couldn’t tell him anything else. He said she didn’t have to. They could just sit, look at the stars, and dream of heat. For what it was worth (🍷), Lois and Gloria loved her. Brook said she knew, but they were a lot. He must miss his mom so much. He said, so much every day, and Brook said he had people looking out for him. He had a whole crazy family, like it or not.

Wednesday:

In the steam room, Chase told Dante that he could tell something had changed, and Dante said he and Lulu talked. The Golden Bachelorette guy was in Nina’s office, and she said she’d been a fan of his (Jeffrey Beckett) for a long time. She never read anything like his work as a wildlife journalist. Crimson’s nature and travel series was lucky to have someone of his caliber involved. Plus, he cleaned up nicely for man of the wild. Elizabeth helped Lucky into the house. His condition needed to be watched for the next 24 hours and since Doc and Laura were working, he was stuck with her. He said he guessed it was okay, and she said, just okay? They moved closer on the sofa and the doorbell rang. It was Carly with a food basket, asking, how’s the hero? At the café, Kristina asked if Alexis read the smack piece on Congressman Cutthroat, Drew’s new nickname. He’d used his political influence to get exhumation of esteemed members of the Quartermaine fam and in his quest for revenge, had Tracy arrested. Alexis wondered, what the hell he was thinking and how did they protect Scout? In Curtis’s office, Laura asked if he was behind the article and Curtis said he was. She told him, way to go, and they high-fived. Drew brought flowers to Willow at the hospital, and she suggested they go to the breakroom. He asked if the article got to her and was she embarrassed seen with him. Portia asked Ric to tell her that he found a way out without her losing her career or marriage, but he said it was much worse than she thought.

Carly thanked Lucky and Elizabeth for figuring it out and bringing Cyrus to justice. She asked what Lucky was going to do now that he was home, but he said he had no plans. Carly said she was leaving so they could get into the basket (is that what we’re calling it now?), and she left. Lucky asked Elizabeth, where were we? Nina said although Jeffrey was there for a fitting and photoshoot, she was glad they had time to meet, and he said he didn’t get many calls from magazines. She said they were branching out to satisfy their readers interest in travel and nature, and they talked about his next trip to Turkey. (BTW, dude is no actor.) Nina asked how his wife felt about him being gone all the time, and he said he wasn’t married, but had the feeling he was going to meet someone special soon and had learned to trust his instincts. Nina was straightening his tie, when Ava came in. Alexis looked at the photo of a mean faced Drew on her tablet, and told Kristina, of course (🍷) DeWitt wrote it. That seedy little worm would write anything for clicks. Kristina said she remembered too well when he wrote about her and Blaze, but Drew deserved it. Alexis said, Scout didn’t. There had to be something she could do to protect Scout. Willow told Drew that The Invader was nothing but lies, but she felt like all eyes were on them and wanted to keep a low profile. It had nothing to do with her feelings for him. She asked if he knew who was behind the article, and he said, no, but he had his suspicions. Ric told Portia that if she’d just altered the results, she might lose her job, but the results were tied to a criminal trial, and she faced the possibility of jail time. She could be charged with obstruction of justice, tampering with evidence, fraud, and criminal negligence. If he hadn’t gotten independent tests done, Heather could have wrongfully ended up in prison. Keep playing by Drew’s rules and make sure he never tells anyone. Portia said it was too late. Drew was going to expose her today.

Dante told Chase that he and Lulu ended up babysitting Baily Lou together and both let their guards down. It was their first real talk since she’d woken up. The first time he felt they’d been in sync and had an honest conversation. They talked about Rocco, Charlotte, and Brook. He’d been defending Brook, and it made Lulu feel like he was picking her side. He had to stop doing it. Chase said he never would have thought the animosity would still be there, and Dante said, him too. It had been four years, but he had to be okay with it and let Lulu be Lulu. He didn’t want to be in the middle, but wanted to focus on Lulu being back in their lives and being happy again. Ava said she and Jeffrey had met when she had a Joel Sartore exhibit, and Jeffrey said he remembered. Nina said he was doing a new series for Crimson, and he asked how they knew each other. Ava said they were good friends, and he said good friends were hard to come by. Ava said they certainly were. Kristina said she had a favor to ask Willow. She’d had a video chat with Michael and he missed the kids. Willow said, the kids missed him too, and Kristina asked it would be okay for her to take videos of the kids sending messages to their dad and send them to Michael. He needed all the support he could get. Willow said the kids would love it and she appreciated the update. She had one condition – please focus on them and Michael and say nothing negative about Drew. Kristina told her that she’d never say anything bad in front of the kids. It wasn’t easy for them. Willow said she wished everyone was a bit more like Kristina. Portia told Ric about the article in the Invader. Drew would assume Curtis was behind it and if she couldn’t influence Curtis, Drew had no reason to keep her secret. But wasn’t what Drew was doing illegal? Ric said she couldn’t expose Drew without exposing herself, and she said it was going to be impossible to hide. He said she had two choices. Convince Drew that Curtis had nothing to do with the article or tell Curtis everything now. She might lose her job, but it was a chance to save her marriage. She said maybe she could save both. Lucky suggested he and Elizabeth have a date later, but thought they could get a head start. They kissed, when the door opened and Aiden walked in.

On the phone, Portia asked Curtis to stop by her office. It was important. Laura told Curtis that her opinion of Drew had changed. She hadn’t seen him do one thing he said he’d do during the campaign. (Welcome to politics!) All she’d seen him do was pose for the camera and abuse his power. She applauded anyone willing to expose him. Curtis said Drew’s biggest weakness was his need to be seen as a hero, and she wondered if they could use that to get him act like a hero. Alexis interrupted, but Laura said she was late again and left. Curtis said it was always a pleasure, and Alexis said she hoped he felt like that after what she was going to ask. Jeffrey left, and Ava said she could see Nina had moved on from Drew. Nina said she definitely had, but she wouldn’t be with a rugged wilderness man any time soon. She asked Ava, what’s up? and Ava said she’d had difficulty regarding her finances lately. Nina wondered if Ava was there to ask for a loan. At the hospital, Kristina was about to get in the elevator, when she saw Ric and turned around, but Ric followed her. He told her that her trip to the ballet with Avery wasn’t happening. Carly approached Willow and said she didn’t want to fight. She wouldn’t be there if she didn’t still genuinely care for Willow. She was worried how the negative press would affect her grandchildren. Wiley was old enough to hear things in school. Willow said she’d explain it was untrue, but Carly said it wasn’t. Drew was really doing these things. He’d sunk to a new low. Drew came out of nowhere, since he doesn’t do his actual job, and said, leave Willow alone. Did Carly ever mind her own business? Carly said if it affected her grandchildren and it was her business, but she’d be happy to talk to Congressman Cutthroat.

Dante told Chase that Lulu thought Rocco was acting strange because she was focused on finding Charlotte, but he didn’t think so. Chase said he was kind of the fun uncle and could talk to Rocco. Dante told him to go for it, and Chase said when they were Rocco’s age and distracted, it was about girls. Dante said he’d walked in on Danny and Rocco having an argument over girl. He never talked to his mom about that kind of thing. Chase asked if Dante thought his mom would have liked the girls he was with, and Dante said, one in particular. Elizabeth told Aiden that his dad was staying the night, and Aiden said he was sorry he’d miss it since he was staying at a friend’s house. Ava said she hated asking Nina for a favor. When she married Nikolas, she spent quite bit and thought she’d always have money. She had a generous settlement until the Cassadine curse kicked in. Nina said, of course (🍷) she was willing to give Ava a loan. She’d been waiting for Ava to ask. What took her so long? Drew told Carly that he didn’t care what names he was called. He wasn’t in the wrong. The Quartermaine crypt was on public land. She wondered how he could be the same man who held her at Virginia’s grave (irony!), and he said that was wrong, but this was wrong too. Carly said, it destroyed her and he was doing the same thing. Did family mean nothing to him? He said he was doing it to keep his place in the family that Tracy was stripping him from, and she said that wasn’t the way to do it. If he continued to justify his actions, she saw a recall in his future. Willow said Tracy was no saint. Drew was only fighting fire with fire. It was the only language Tracy understood, and Carly knew that better than anyone. Carly said she came to have a calm conversation with Willow, but there was no point, so she’d leave them to it. Kristina asked Ric, why not? and Ric said it wasn’t her dad’s day. She said it was a special one night only performance and it was impossible to get tickets. She’d talk to her dad and they could switch days. He said it would just confuse Avery, but Kristina said he was going to upset Avery just to get back at her. He said maybe she shouldn’t promise what she couldn’t deliver. Next time check a calendar.

Nina said, it wasn’t a loan, it was a gift, but Ava said she couldn’t. Not even from Nina. She’d have Ric draw up paperwork and a repayment schedule. Money could change things, people, and friendships, and she wouldn’t let it change theirs. Nina said it wouldn’t, but Ava said she’d lost their friendship once and didn’t want to risk it again. Nina said she felt the same way, when Carly came in and said she needed to talk to Nina. Ava said she and Nina would talk later and left. Nina asked, what’s the emergency? and Carly said it was about Drew and Willow. They had to put their plan in motion now. Sasha was waiting in an examining room when Willow came in. She said, Sasha was her next patient, and Sasha said if Willow had a problem with her, say it. Willow asked how Sasha could be such a hypocrite. Sasha turned on her the second she saw Willow kissing Michael’s uncle on 4th of July. Sasha said she didn’t, and Willow said Sasha did way worse. She dated Michael and now she was pregnant by his other uncle. (Wow. That’s a stretch to say that’s worse.) Drew went to Portia’s office and said he was disappointed in her. He thought she’d get Curtis to see reason and move on. Instead, he’s the one behind the article. Portia said she didn’t think so. The Quartermaines were a huge family. It could have been anybody. Curtis had Aurora Media, so why would he use a rag like The Invader when he had reputable sources at his fingertips. Drew said she had a good point, but it could be a great point if she could convince Curtis to do a series of articles focusing on him being a family man, a hard-working congressman (ha-ha-ha! he’s never at work), and an ex-Navy SEAL. Portia said if she defended him any more than she was, it would tip off Curtis, and he said that was unfortunate for her. She said it was one thing to go after Curtis directly, but it was a whole other thing to go after him through his wife. If he found out Drew was blackmailing her, he’d go to a whole other level. Was Drew sure he was ready to take that on? Alexis told Curtis that it was about the article in The Invader. Drew came across as a villain and Tracy a hapless innocent. Nothing could be further from the truth. Curtis asked, which part? and Alexis said, DeWitt wasn’t going to publish a retraction, but she was hoping Curtis might write an article present Drew as more balanced to protect his image. She was worried about the public turning on him and how her granddaughter would feel. Curtis had the resources to help. He said he was sympathetic about Scout, but Drew made himself look bad, not the article. He valued her friendship, but couldn’t help. Did she ever think that by shielding Drew from the consequences of his actions and not holding him accountable, that she was enabling him? Aiden told Elizabeth and Lucky that he was meeting his friends at the movies. It was nice having them together. Aiden left, Lucky said, alone at last, and they started kissing again. Ava came back to her apartment to find Kristina waiting outside her door.

Elizabeth and Lucky began to get busy, when the doorbell rang. Laura said she was sorry she didn’t call, but wanted to thank Elizabeth for bringing Lucky home. She hugged Lucky and suggested they all have dinner tonight. Lucky said, that would be perfect, and he and Elizabeth forced smiles. Ava asked what brought Kristina by, and Kristina said she ran into Ric, and he said she couldn’t take Avery to the ballet. Ava said it was her day and Avery’s schedule had to stay consistent. Kristina said it wasn’t about Avery. It was about getting back at her. Ava was going to deprive Avery of a magical night that would be a core memory lasting a lifetime. Ava said Avery was still going, but with her. The theater owner was a friend, and she got front row center. Kristina said, bitch, and Ric popped out, telling her to watch her temper. Remember the last time she lost it. She said there was a special place in hell for both of them. Chase told Dante that Rocco would grow out of it. They did. He was glad Dante talked to Lulu. Dante said he was relieved. He asked how things were going with Brook, and Chase said, the same. They didn’t know how they were going to become parents. Dante said, take their time. Whatever happened, Chase was going to be a great dad. He was a natural. Chase said it meant a lot coming from him, and Dante said Chase could come to him with everything. Chase said with his dad gone and Finn in Seattle, there weren’t a lot of guys to talk to. His friendship with Dante was important to him. Dante said it was to him too. Sasha said her and Willow’s situations weren’t remotely similar. She and Michael were long over. Willow said she thought there were more similarities than Sasha was willing to admit. The one big difference was, her mom was never a con artist. (Um…) Sasha said Willow didn’t know her mother, and Willow said when Sasha’s plan didn’t work out with Michael’s money, she went after Jason. Sasha said Willow was so, so wrong, and suggested they talk about Willow landing her husband’s very wealthy very uncle. Coincidence? Speaking of coincidence, she thought the article about Drew was what was bothering Willow. It made her realize she’d thrown her life away. She blew up her life and family over a sleaze and couldn’t admit she was wrong.

Portia told Drew that there had to be another way she could help that wasn’t about Curtis writing a puff piece. Drew said they could do a press conference. He could discuss his pediatric sports initiative (🍷– new drinking game! you’ll see) and she could represent GH. Portia said she didn’t see how it would help, but Drew aid, her being there would force Curtis to cover the story and paint him in the best possible light. Curtis walked in and asked what the hell Drew was doing there. Carly told Nina to stall Willow. Keep Willow at her place or find her a place of her own. Whatever it took to keep her and the kids from moving in with Drew. Drew was pushing it and they had to believe somehow Willow knew it was a bad idea. The longer they could keep Willow from moving in with Drew, the better. Meanwhile, they’d work on exposing Drew. Nina asked how she suggested they do it, and Carly said they needed to get in his house and find something so undeniable that Willow would never look at him the same way. Nina asked, what if there was nothing to find? and Carly said they’d make sure there was.

Thursday:

Jason and Anna were flying back to Port Charles with Charlotte. Charlotte wanted to call her mom, but Anna said, hold on. Maxie, Lulu, and Carly were at a table at the MetroCourt, when Jack came in with Jordan. Jordan told Jack that she was the liaison for the WSB, and he said he didn’t think the mayor was his biggest fan. Jordan said, if they eased the tension, it would be better for sharing information. The WSB possessed information that was helpful. Jack asked what she’d like to know, and she said, not what, but who. What did he know about Jenz Sidwell?  Portia wondered if there was another way for her to help Drew that didn’t involve Curtis writing a puff piece, and Drew said he was having a press conference to discuss his pediatric sports initiative (🍷) and she could represent GH. It would force Curtis to print a story painting him in a positive light. Curtis came in and asked what the hell Drew was doing there, and Drew said he was presenting a business proposal to Curtis’s wife. Curtis asked Portia to tell him what was going on. Sasha said, when the article dropped, Willow realized she blew up her life and family over a sleaze and couldn’t admit she was wrong. Willow said she was absolutely wrong to cheat on Michael, but who was Sasha to judge her? No one knew what led up to it except her, Drew, and Michael. Sasha asked if she was sure about that. Lucas was about to leave the bar in Miami when he found a credit card on the floor. As he looked at it, a man approached and said he believed it was his.  Elizabeth asked if Lucky was expecting anyone else to pop in, and he said, no. Her? She said, nope. It was just them for the rest of the night. He said he liked the sound of that and she said she did too, and they kissed.

Anna said she wanted to wait until they were in Port Charles before letting Lulu know Charlotte was back, and Charlotte asked if Anna thought those men would find her papa. Jason said Valentin made the right call by letting her come with them. He could move faster alone. Anna said there was no one better at disappearing and the men didn’t stand a chance, but she knew that didn’t make it hurt less. Jack told Jordan that Sidwell’s dealings in rare earth and minerals weren’t just gold and diamonds. The minerals he spoke of were strictly regulated by those in weapons manufacturing. Jordan asked if he thought that’s why Sidwell was in Port Charles. Did he want to use their port to smuggle his goods? He said there was no evidence of it, but it was in both their interests to keep an eye on Sidwell. Was there something she wanted to share with the class? She said she had one interesting tidbit. Carly was making a valiant effort not to notice him, but failing miserably. Lulu asked, what’s so fascinating? but Carly said, nothing. Lulu asked why she was staring at Jack, but Carly said she was just making sure her patrons were happy. Why would she care who Jack spent time with? While Portia was busy on the phone, Drew told Curtis that he was spearheading a pediatric sports initiative (🍷). He was surprised Trina hadn’t mentioned it since her friend Kai was involved, lending them his local celebrity status. Curtis said, and Drew was in his wife’s office because… Drew said she was Co-Chief of Staff and the initiative involved GH. Portia had already agreed to be at the press conference. Portia said she wished Drew wouldn’t put words in her mouth.

Elizabeth’s doorbell rang and she said it was like Grand Central Station. She opened the door to Ric and told him it wasn’t the best time, but he said it was important and would just take a minute. Lucky said he thought this night couldn’t get better, and Ric said he wanted to start by thanking Lucky. In Miami, the man said that Lucas found his card and offered to show Lucas his ID, but Lucas said it wasn’t necessary. The man introduced himself as Marco and offered to buy Lucas a drink as thanks. Sasha said everyone saw Willow mooning over Drew. She found excuses to be with or around him and even Michael noticed. Willow said her and Michael’s issues started before Sasha moved in and they all made mistakes – her, Drew, and Michael. Sasha said she thought the only mistake Michael made was trusting Willow. Willow told Michael that it was just a harmless crush, that her heart was still with him and the kids. He believed her and when he found out she acted on her feelings, he was devastated. So yes, Sasha would judge her and not feel bad about it. Willow said Sasha got pregnant at the beginning of November, around the time Jason was mourning Sam, and Sasha said, Jason and Sam hadn’t been together in years. Willow said, but their love story was epic and an obstacle to anyone who wanted Jason. (Is she confusing Sam with Carly?) Sasha saw an opening and took it. (This is possibly the most difficult suspension of disbelief for me, since Sasha could so get Willow fired.)

Jason asked why Anna didn’t want Charlotte to call Lulu, and Anna said she didn’t think the WSB would go after Charlotte, but if Brennan didn’t send the men, someone else had a vested interest in shutting Valentin up permanently. Jason said, it might be easier to use Charlotte to lure Valentin than find him, and Anna said, Charlotte’s phone could be tapped. She needed to contact someone else first. Marco said he was in Miami for a client meeting, and Lucas said he was there for a medical symposium. His ex was also on the trip, and it didn’t end well. Portia said she hadn’t given Drew an answer yet, and Drew said, it was just wishful thinking. Portia said the program was his baby and he should take all the credit, but Drew said it was a partnership. What happened to one of them would happen to the other, and the intention was to benefit the kids. Portia said then she’d do it, and Drew said it was a worthy cause. It would also generate a ton if positive publicity for GH, creating an influx of donors, which would help all of the patients. He knew how quickly things would change, and bringing money in would help her keep her position. Curtis said it would also help people forget Congressman Cutthroat, and Drew said he’d like to offer Curtis and Aurora the opportunity to cover the kick off. Willow said, while she was acting on her sincere feelings, Sasha acted out of greed. Jason was wealthy and adding the Quartermaine connection, her having his baby was the best con she ever pulled. Sasha wondered, what about Willow telling Michael that she would love, honor, and cherish him until death they did part? Think what she wanted about Sasha’s choices, but she didn’t break any vows or hearts. Willow said, give it time, and left. Anna called Jack and told him that she had Charlotte Cassadine. He said he didn’t suppose she had Valentin as well, and she said, negative. They were on a jet and would be at the Sussex airfield in an hour. She needed him to bring Lulu there without alerting anyone. Was it something he could do? He said, not a problem, and Anna told Jason that Jack was going to meet them on the tarmac. Jason asked if she was sure about trusting Jack. How did she know the men weren’t lying, were there under Jack’s orders, and they were delivering him the means to eliminate Valentin?

 Anna said, Jack may be on the hunt, but he knew if anything happened to Charlotte on his watch, Carly would never forgive him. Jason said Jack didn’t care about Carly, but Anna said he did. When it came to Carly, he didn’t have an ulterior motive. She thought he was smitten. She wasn’t saying he was a good guy, but he wanted to see Charlotte reunited with her mother as much as they did. Ric thanked Lucky for saving Elizabeth and gave Elizabeth a manila envelope. He said it was a hard copy of the Medical Review Board’s final decision. She was officially exonerated from responsibility in the deaths of Sylvia Mullen, Dex Heller, and Sam McCall. He also got her back pay for the days of work she was forced to miss. She thanked him, and he said his only regret was that Terry had to call him to represent her. It was good to have such a good friend, but Elizabeth should have called him in the first place. She said she didn’t know Terry had called and didn’t know how serious it was until she was in the middle of it. He said if she ever needed a lawyer or wondered if she might, he should be her first call. He couldn’t bust down doors or duke it out with lunatics, but if she called, he’d always pick up. Lucky rolled his eyes. Marco said Lucas’s ex being there couldn’t be easy, and Lucas said, ex-husband. Marco asked how long they were married, and Lucas said, three years and they had a son. He apologized and said, Marco offered to buy him a drink, not listen to his sob story, and Marco ordered two more. He said he loved long stories, the sobbier, the better. Tell him about his son.

Curtis said Aurora wasn’t the only game in town and Drew could find another media outlet, but Drew said, Curtis’s wife was on board. It would look bad if Curtis didn’t cover it. It was a win-win for all of them. Curtis said he needed time to think about it, and Drew said, fair enough. He left, and Curtis said, what the hell was that? Maxie, Lulu, and Carly discussed the Quartermaine crypt incident, and Jack told Jordan that he hated to cut the evening short. Jordan’s phone rang, and she said she’d be there as soon as she could. Jack went to Lulu and said he was sorry to interrupt, but she had to come with him. It was urgent. Lulu asked if it was about the search for Valentin, but he said he couldn’t give her any details. She’d have to trust him. Carly said she could trust Jack, and Lulu left with him. Maxie asked Carly, what was going on with her and Agent Brennan? Anna thanked Jason for coming and having her back. He didn’t need to get involved. He said he did, but Anna said she let Valentin escape. Jason said he went along with it, and she said, because she asked him to. He said he chose to. It was on him too. They both let Valentin take Charlotte. Anna said, and now they were bringing her back. Lucas told Marco that he gave Wiley back to his father, he and Brad got divorced, and Brad spent six months in prison. Marco said Lucas’s ex must have loved him. He did a terrible thing, but believed it was to spare Lucas pain. He risked his freedom. He risked everything. Lucas said Marco was the first person to hear the story and have that reaction, and Marco asked if Lucas disagreed. Lucas said, no. That was the part that killed him. He knew Brad did it because Brad loved him. He’d always wanted a family of their own, and Brad thought it would break his heart not to have a child, so Brad gave him one. Marco said, and broke his heart anyway, and Lucas said, it hurt a lot of other people, and no amount of love or good intentions can change that. Marco said, it couldn’t erase Lucas’s time with Wiley or Brad either. Wiley may not be his son, but was still a part of him. He was a child of Lucas’s heart and always would be. Lucas said he had a year and a half of being a dad. The memory was his forever, and no one could take it away. Ric told Elizabeth to put the papers in her records asap, and she went upstairs. Lucky suggested Ric send a messenger next time, and Ric asked if he detected hostility. Lucky said, just impatience, and Ric said he meant it when he said Lucky was a hero. And it got him a nice comfy spot to recover. Lucky said it was harder when random people kept dropping by with unnecessary things, and Ric asked if he could drop Lucky off at his mother’s so she could tuck him in. Lucky said thanks for the offer, but he was solid, and Ric said, that was the first word that came to mind when someone thought about Lucky – solid and reliable. Elizabeth could do so much better. Lucky said, like with Ric? Portia told Curtis that she agreed with Drew about the initiative. It would be good for the kids and for the entire hospital. As a doctor and as a mother, she had to support it, no matter what she thought or felt about Drew.

Curtis said if it was just Drew, there was no way he’d get involved, but did Portia want him to cover it? She said she did, for the reasons she said, but also for Trina. Kai was involved and Curtis’s support would mean so much. Don’t let Drew’s awfulness keep him from contributing to a good cause. Don’t let Drew have that kind of power. Jordan went to Drew’s office and said she didn’t have much time. Make it quick. He told her that he was having a press conference to announce his pediatric sports initiative (🍷). Portia agreed to be part of it and he was hoping Aurora would provide coverage. He’d love for her to be there as a representative of the mayor’s office. Jordan said, give her a break. Drew was trying to get himself a nice bouquet to cover the stench of The Invader article. Drew asked if she was going to help organize the support of the community or walk away just to spite him. Jordan said she’d take it under consideration, and left. Lulu asked why they were watching a jet landing and Jack said her daughter was on it. He didn’t have any details, but Anna told him to bring her. He assumed it was to secure her safety. Lulu started to cry and said she couldn’t believe it. Her daughter…

Marco asked if Lucas was doing better, and Lucas said he wasn’t in Boston drowning himself in work. He’d gone to Boston, didn’t date at all, and barely had contact with his friends and family. Marco asked, what changed? and Lucas said his mom died. Marco said he was sorry to hear that, and Lucas said, it was a wake-up call. Our time here was so limited, and they had to do as much with it as they could. Love people while they were still here. Marco said, so he went home, and Lucas said he still worked a lot. There was no action on the dating front, but he wasn’t hiding from life, so there was that. Marco said it was a lot. It took courage to face the things that scared you. How was it? Lucas said his family and friends were great. Shockingly, it hadn’t been so horrible seeing Brad. Marco said, it stirred up old emotions, and Lucas said, sort of. He remembered why they fell in love and how happy they were once upon a time. Brad helped him through a terrible time and made him less lonely. Marco said someone who did that would always have a place in your heart. Not the place they used to, but a place. Lucas said, when he found out Brad was at the symposium, he thought it was a sign. Brad was the kind, supportive person he fell for, and he started to feel something he hadn’t felt in a very long time. They were just at the brink of putting it back together, but then Brad decided to tell him how he got to go on the trip, and he’s still the same lying manipulative person he was. Still driven by love for him, but maybe that was the problem. Marco said, love? and Lucas said it couldn’t be the only answer to loneliness. Marco said, companionship came in all shapes and sizes, and Lucas said maybe it was as simple as finding a gorgeous man and taking it from there. He added, more accurately, from here, and kissed Marco. Jordan went to see Portia and said she spoke to Drew about his new pediatric sports initiative (🍷), and Portia said he asked her to be at the press conference. Jordan said she heard Portia was on board. Drew also said Aurora might get involved. Is that the truth?

Carly told Maxie that she and Jack’s lives were incompatible, and Maxie asked how he took it. Carly said, quietly. He walked away and she hasn’t seen him until now. Maxie said it sounded like the rejection hurt his feelings, but Carly said Jack had a woman in every city. She was just the one in Port Charles. She couldn’t go down that road when Jack would never commit. Maxie asked, to what? What kind of commitment was Carly looking for? Sasha got her ultrasound, and the nurse (not Willow) asked if she’d like to know the sex. Coming out of the elevator, Drew saw Willow and asked if she was okay. She seemed down. Willow said she was coming from a difficult patient, and Drew said he wouldn’t blame her if she’d let the Congressman Cutthroat nonsense get to her, but she said she already told him that she didn’t read that garbage and didn’t listen to anyone who told her about it. He said it seemed like there was more than just a difficult patient that got to her. Anna and Jason brought Charlotte to Lulu.

Ric said he’d get out of Elizabeth’s hair, and she thanked him for everything. He told her that he meant what he said, and she asked if he wasn’t trying to annoy Lucky. He said it was an added bonus, but he wanted her to be happy. He left and Elizabeth said, finally, they were alone, but Lucky had fallen asleep. Maxie asked what Carly was looking for. Did she want to settle down and get married? Carly said she would be happy never to be married again, and Maxie wondered if she could possibly be overthinking things. If she died tomorrow, would she regret not sleeping with Jack? Curtis said he was going to cover the press conference, and Jordan said, if they were on board, she’d be there. She left, and Portia thanked Curtis. Curtis thanked her for helping see the right thing to do and they hugged. Willow told Drew that she could handle it and so could he, but Scout and Wiley were a different story. Drew said he was working on reminding everyone of the good work he was doing on behalf of the citizens. The old headlines would be gone and forgotten. It was going to work out. Willow told him that when he said it, she believed it, and they kissed. Sasha came out and looked at her sonogram, then saw Drew and Willow. Lucas asked Marco, what now? and Marco said he thought Lucas should give him his room key. Lucas slid the key to Marco. Charlotte and Lulu hugged, and Lulu said, Charlotte was finally home.

🫔 Friday’s Enchilada:

We see bingo cards and tchotchkes being set out. Yuri says, O-65, retire and thrive… Correct? Gloria says, perfect, and Gio says he never heard that before. Got it! Lois says she’s got nothing, and Gloria says she taught Yuri all the bingo lingo. That man is a natural. Gio says he can’t believe she brought her bingo kit from Bensonhurst, and Gloria says she never leaves home without it. Yuri says, call your doctor. Time for a shot of B-12. Gio says, bingo! and shows his card. Gloria says, a four-corner win, and Lois says she’s impressed. It’s hard to beat ma. Gloria says, they all know Gio is a star and can do pretty much anything, when Brook walks in. She says, of course (🍷) Gloria brought her bingo set with her, and Gloria says she can’t risk getting rusty. Gio says, Brook can take his spot. He’s got to meet Emma. Gloria says, Brook is lucky. That seat is hot. Yuri says he’ll bring the car around for Gio, and Gio tells them, see you later, and leaves. Gloria says, Emma? and Brook says, Emma Scorpio Drake. She’s the Police Commissioner’s granddaughter. Gloria asks, what’s going on with them? and Brook wonders if they’re all going to pretend they just found out, when all along they knew the baby was Dante’s.

On the phone, Laura says she doesn’t want to be interrupted… Yes, it’s that important.

Lulu brings Charlotte home to Laura’s apartment and looks at her. Charlotte says, it’s okay. She’s really here. Lulu says she can’t believe it. She’s been dreaming about this for so long. She smooths Charlotte’s hair and says, there’s so much she wants to tell her, but she wanted to wait until they were alone. They hug, and Lulu says, thank God she’s here and safe. Charlotte says, don’t thank God. Thank papa.

Sonny thanks Isaiah for making a house call, since doctors don’t do that anymore, but Isaiah says, some do for some patients. Sonny says he appreciates it. He doesn’t want his children knowing about his condition. Isaiah says, he’s welcome. His blood pressure is a lot better. Sonny actually seems to be listening to his advice. Sonny says he’s been taking his medication and reducing stress. He even called a truce with his daughter’s mother. It seemed to help. Kristina walks in with Rocco and asks, what’s going on? Rocco asks if Sonny is okay.

At Trina’s apartment, Kai asks if their third date is living up to their first, and Trina says, when he asked her to the museum, he didn’t say it was a date. On Valentine’s Day, she didn’t know it was a date, so it doesn’t count. And since they’re staying in tonight, this doesn’t either. He says, Valentine’s Day was definitely a date and so was painting. They were good dates too. What can he do to make tonight feel more datelike? Would a kiss help? She says, it might, and they kiss. She says, yeah. It definitely feels like a date now, and they kiss again.

On the phone in his hotel room, Jack asks, what’s the update on Josslyn Jax… Is that right? Good to hear. Keep pushing her. There’s a knock at the door and he says, they’ll talk tomorrow. He opens the door to Carly and says, if he remembers correctly, the last time they spoke, she wanted nothing to do with him. So what is she doing here now? She says, fixing a huge mistake, and kisses him.

Trina’s phone rings, but she says she’ll ignore it. Kai says, what if it’s an emergency? and she answers. She asks Ava, what’s going on? and Ava says, thank God. She locked herself out of the gallery and can’t find her key. It’s freezing and her phone is dying. Can Trina come quickly please? Trina tells Kai that Ava locked herself out of the gallery and needs to be let in before she freezes. He says he gets it. Ava is her boss and friend. He was about to head out anyway. Trina thanks him for being cool about it. She’ll see him tomorrow. He says, for sure, and leaves.  

Gloria says, no one is pretending anything. Brook’s been avoiding her all day and she thought that meant Brook didn’t want to talk about it. Brook tells Gloria that she didn’t know what to say. Finding out Gloria knew all along knocked the wind out of her. Gloria says she’s sorry to hear that, and Brook says she told her ma alone. She had no idea Lois ran off and told Gloria. It makes her wonder who else knows.

Lulu says she’s glad Charlotte’s father kept her safe, but she wouldn’t have been in danger in the first place if he hadn’t taken her on the run. Charlotte asks why it matters. She’s here now only because of her papa. Lulu says she didn’t even know Charlotte was coming until before the plane landed. How did Anna and Jason know where she was? Charlotte says, papa texted Rocco and told him where they were. He thought Rocco would tell Lulu and Lulu would come and get her, but Jason found out. Lulu says, Valentin wanted Charlotte back in Port Charles because he was worried about her safety after someone took a shot at him in the Prague café. Charlotte says, he was trying to do what was best for her, even if it means he doesn’t see her every day anymore, and Lulu says, Rocco didn’t tell her that he’d gotten the text. She would have been on the first plane. Charlotte says, papa thought so too, and Lulu says, Rocco’s been avoiding her and she couldn’t figure out why. It makes sense now. She never once gave up hope that Charlotte would come home. Charlotte says she knows, and Lulu says she wishes it had been her that came to get Charlotte, not Anna and Jason. Charlotte says, actually, she was glad Lulu wasn’t there.

Jack says he thought Carly didn’t want to do this, but Carly says she overthought it. It’s what she does and it’s not great. She shouldn’t have thought the worst about him. He says, she changed her mind and he’s supposed to forget and be at her beck and call? How does he know she won’t change her mind again tomorrow? She says, he doesn’t, but she won’t, and he says, he knew she had doubts, but he thought it was about the WSB and how dangerous his job is. She’d be putting herself at risk. But she questioned his character and his feelings for her. That’s a very different thing. She says she knows, and he says he was very clear and very consistent about the way he feels. If she still doubts his intentions, she was right to end whatever it is they had. She says she was completely wrong. That’s why she’s here. He asks, what changed her mind? They haven’t not spoken, so it’s not him. Why the change of heart?

Sonny tells Kristina, everything is fine. He’s just under the weather and called Lucky to get ahold of Dr. Gannon to check him out. They know each other? Kristina says, they met at Charlie’s. Nice to see him. Isaiah says, her too, and she says she brought Rocco by to see the new place. Rocco says, it’s not new. He’s been here, but not since Charlotte lived here. Sonny says he made some changes, especially in the backyard. Does Rocco want to check it out? Rocco says, cool, and he and Sonny leave. Isaiah says he’s going to go, but Kristina says, if her dad had a cold, he would have had Isaiah call in a prescription, not have him come to his home and examine him. What’s really going on with her dad?

Trina lets herself into the dark gallery and says she got here as fast as she could. She turns on the light and her family and friends yell, surprise! She says she can’t believe they did this, and Curtis says, she didn’t think they’d forget her birthday. Trina says she knows her parents are successful and driven and figured they’d be running the hospital and Aurora, but Portia says, they’re never too busy to celebrate their birthday girl. Stella asks if she can get in on that birthday love, and hugs Trina. Trina thanks her for coming, and Stella says she wouldn’t miss wishing Trina a happy birthday. She knows Trina is going to have an incredible year, and it will only get better. Trina says she likes the sound of that, and Stella says she was supposed to be a distraction, but she thought of someone better for the job. Trina sees Kai, who smiles at her, and Stella says, was she right or was she right? Trina says, she was right, as always.

Charlotte says she’s glad Lulu wasn’t there. It was so dangerous. After papa sent the text, Jason and Anna showed up and told them to run. Lulu says, it must have been terrifying, and Charlotte says, it was. She and papa hid, but they could hear everything. The WSB came in and Jason and Anna had to fight them off. She doesn’t think Lulu could take them on like that. Lulu says she’s scrappier than she looks and would do what it takes to keep Charlotte and her brother. Charlotte says she knows. She’s happy to be home, but it feels kinda weird. Lulu says, good weird or bad weird? and Charlotte says, good weird. Lulu says she knows the feeling. It will feel normal soon, she promises. Charlotte wonders how, without her papa.

Outside, Sonny asks what Rocco thinks, and Rocco says, looks good. Sonny asks if it’s missing anything, and Rocco says, Charlotte. It feels weird being here without her. Sonny asks if they’re close. Does he miss her a lot? Rocco says he does. Can he tell Sonny something? Sonny says, anything, and Rocco says he got a text from Charlotte, but didn’t tell either of his parents. He remembered how dangerous it was last time. He told Danny, who told his dad, and Jason promised to bring Charlotte home. Sonny says, he did the right thing. He was looking out for his family and in a tough spot, but he handled it like a champ. Rocco says, but he hasn’t heard from Jason. What if he can’t find Charlotte? Sonny says, Jason is good at finding people, but if Rocco doesn’t hear from him soon, he’ll step in. Rocco thanks him, and Sonny says, you’ve got it.

Isaiah says, whatever questions Kristina has, the answer is the same. Talk to her dad. Kristina says, since he’s here, there must be something to ask about that he’s not telling her, and he says, ask her dad. Kristina says she thinks he’d tell her if it was bad, but he doesn’t have to. Obviously, it’s bad if he’s here. If Sonny was fine, he wouldn’t be trying to cover it up. Isaiah says he’s not covering up anything. He’s respecting the oath he took and doctor/patient confidentiality, which is the law. She says she’s Sonny’s daughter. He’d tell her if Sonny was in the hospital. Be honest. It’s kind of the same thing. Isaiah says, it’s not, when Sonny and Rocco come back. Sonny asks, what’s going on? and Kristina says, Dr. Gannon confirmed something serious is going on. What is it? Sonny looks at Isaiah, who shakes his head.

Jack asks, what changed? and Carly says she realized that life is short. If something happened to either one of them, she’d regret not exploring whatever this is. She’s sorry. She was wrong. And she doesn’t usually admit to either. He says, sorry for what? and she says, not trusting him. She saw him with Vivian and Vivian was flirting. He was so nonchalant, it threw her, and she dismissed all the good things he’d done. But she realized ending things had nothing to do with him. He says, what about Vivian? and she says, that was just an excuse. She got so scared because of how much she was starting to feel for him. She tried to push him away and that’s not her. She’s not the kind of person to run from her feelings. He says, or much of anything else. Exactly what kind of person is she? She says, stick around and find out, and they kiss.

Lulu says, Charlotte knows she wishes Valentin could be here, for Charlotte’s sake. She’d love if it was different, but Charlotte is safer here and has stability. She can’t live life on the run. Charlotte says, it wasn’t that bad. She and papa saw a lot of different places and he made sure she had everything she needed. Lulu says, now that she has Charlotte here, there’s so much she wants to ask. She has so much to tell her and not just about Charlotte’s time away. Her time too. She missed so much in the last four years. Charlotte says she can’t wait to tell Lulu everything. She’s happy to be back home. It might not seem like it, but it is. Lulu says she knows Charlotte had a crazy day. Who is she kidding? Charlotte had a crazy year. Charlotte says she knows things were weird, but her papa always kept her safe and brought up Lulu whenever he could. Lulu says she knows how much Charlotte loves her papa, and she’s so grateful he kept her safe. She’s more grateful that he sent the text, so Charlotte would be brought home. She knows how hard it was for him. Charlotte says she couldn’t believe it when he told her, and Lulu says she’s sure it was lonely being out there with just her dad, and Charlotte says, it was. Lulu says, they need to make up for that. She’s going to make a quick call.

Gloria says she swears on the family bible. No one else knows about the baby. Brook asks how she can be sure, and Gloria says she’d never betray a trust that way. Lois says, listen to her grandma. Gloria knows all the family secrets and never let any of them slip. Gloria says she sensed something was eating away at Lois, and Lois says, Gloria had to pull it out of her. Brook asks why Gloria wouldn’t tell, and Gloria says she was respecting Brook’s privacy and the privacy of Brook’s mother. She never talked about it. Brook says, never? Not even at confession? Gloria says, not a word. She put it in the vault, and it stayed there where it belongs, and she suggests they do the same.  

Laura tells Trina, happy birthday, and hands her a giftbag. She says, these are from Ace. He made the card himself. Trina says, it’s ridiculously cute, and thanks Laura for letting him make it for her. She thanks Laura for being here, and Laura says, there’s no place else she’d rather be. Besides, she thinks it’s what Spencer would want, for her to be here. She knows last year was tough and she’s very glad to see Trina in a better place and willing to celebrate her birthday. Trina says, that doesn’t mean she forgot Spencer or doesn’t miss him every day, and Laura says she’d never think that about her. Neither of them will ever forget Spencer. He was one of a kind. Trina says, yeah, and Laura says, he loved her so much. He would be so happy to see how happy Trina is. She missed seeing the light in Trina’s eyes and she’s glad it’s back. Spencer would be very glad it’s back. Her phone rings, and she says, sorry. It’s her daughter. Trina moves on and Lulu asks if Laura can come home. She has a surprise for her.

Jack leads Carly to the bedroom. They get busy and there’s a song part.

Kai says he’s in a group of athletes who are working at the hospital, visiting sick kids in the pediatrics wing. He tries to spend as much time there as he can. It’s fun in the middle of the hard stuff. Trina says, it’s sweet of him to get involved, and he says he met the guy who came up with the program. He’s a congressman. Emma says, the guy who slept with his nephew’s wife? and Kai says, he seemed okay. He doesn’t know about the guy’s personal life and doesn’t care. The program is changing lives. Emma says, that part is great. Is he sure that he’s not taking on too much? If he wants to back out of her animal fundraiser, she understands. He says, since he’s not playing football, he has plenty of time, when Curtis comes out. He says, it’s time for cake, and the cake is brought out. Trina says, it’s gorgeous (agreed), and Portia says, sing Happy Birthday! They sing and Trina smiles. Kai says, make a wish, and Stella says, make it good. Trina blows out the candles and everyone applauds.  

As they bask in the afterglow, Jack says, this isn’t at all what he expected when he opened the door and saw Carly standing there. She says, he showed up at her hotel room and gave her one hell of a kiss in Germany. She thought she’d return the favor. He says he’s glad she did. He’s been thinking about this for a long time. She says, her too.

Laura comes into the apartment and is immediately absorbed in taking off her coat. She says, sorry she’s late. She got stuck at the party saying goodbye to so many people…  She sees Charlotte, quietly freaks out, and they hug.  

Gio gives Trina a giftbag and says, it’s from Josslyn. She’s sorry she couldn’t be here, but she’s still in Easter Island. She made sure she had it sent to the Quartermaines’ in trust of him delivering it. Trina takes out a sleep-aid set and says, Josslyn is amazing. Josslyn knows she has a hard time sleeping. She loves Josslyn so much. Stella says, here’s the last one, and Emma says, it’s from her. The guy in the bookstore said it’s a must have. Trina opens the present and it’s the same art book Spencer got her shortly after they met. She thanks Emma and says, it’s amazing. She thanks everybody for all the thoughtful, amazing gifts and says, go have another slice of cake and more to drink and just party. Portia tells Trina, happy birthday, and kisses her cheek. Trina looks sadly at the book.

Isaiah says he didn’t tell Kristina anything, and Sonny asks if Rocco doesn’t have homework. Kristina says, since Isaiah is on his way out, could he drop Rocco home at the Quartermaines’? Isaiah says he’d be happy to, and Rocco thanks Sonny for the tour. Sonny says, anytime, and Rocco leaves with Isaiah. Kristina says, Sonny knows she’s going to find out. What’s going on? She can always tell when he’s lying, so tell her. Whatever it is, it’s worse in her head. What she’s imagining isn’t good. What’s going on? Sonny says he doesn’t want her to worry. What he’s got is treatable. He’s fine. She says, treatable? Just tell her what’s going on. He says, there’s something wrong with his heart.

Lulu asks if Charlotte is sure she’s all right, and Charlotte says she’s fine. Just tired. She’s going to go shower. Laura suggests she lie down and get some rest, and Charlotte says, that’s probably a good idea. Laura says, they can catch up tomorrow. She wants to hear about everything Charlotte was doing. Charlotte says, most of it was boring, and Lulu says, don’t get too comfortable. She’s got the idea there might be more visitors. Laura says she’s really happy Charlotte is home, and Charlotte goes to shower. Laura asks if they found Valentin, but Lulu says, no. He’s still out there somewhere, but he’s the reason Charlotte is here. Charlotte said he took good care of her and made sure Charlotte didn’t forget her. Laura says, that doesn’t surprise her. She knows how much Valentin loves Charlotte, but she’s still better off away from him. Lulu agrees and says she hopes he stays away for Charlotte’s sake.

Brook says, all these years, she thought she was keeping the secret from Gloria, but Gloria was keeping the same secret from her. Gloria says, if the devil himself was mad at her for not telling, so be it. She would do anything for Brook. She would suffer anything. As long as her girls and their future was protected. She loves them both so much. Lois says, they love her too… even though sometimes she makes it hard, and Brook says, yeah, but this brought up so many things she wasn’t letting herself think about for so many years. It’s going to take time to wrap her head around it. (Hello 1960s!) Lois tells her, take all the time she needs. They’ll be here when she’s ready. Brook leaves.

Jack tells Carly that he needs to refresh and is taking a quick shower. He gets out of bed and heads for the shower and says, that was an invitation to join him. She says she knows, but someone has to answer the door for room service, and she’s a little bit thirsty. He says, suit herself, and she stays in the bed, looking all happy. She hears him singing in the shower and gets up.

Gio says, Emma’s been great lately, and she asks what he means. He says, she put an activist group together and moved forward. She kept him company at the crypt and gave Kai a good pep talk. She asks why he’s surprised, and he says, the first times they met, she didn’t come across as someone who would do that. She seems different. She says, this is who she is now, and he says, it makes him wonder who the real Emma is. She says she’d like to know her too.

Stella asks Curtis about meeting with Congressman Henderson, and Curtis says, he helped with some obstacles. Drew is now focused on his pediatric sports initiative (🍷) and he’s planning a press conference. Portia is going to talk, and Aurora Media is covering it. He hates that he’s helping rehab Drew’s image. Stella suggests he pick his battle. He can elevate Portia, but if he gets in the way, he could hinder her success. She deserves to shine. Drew be damned.

Portia thanks Ava for referring Ric and being there, and Ava says, of course (🍷). She thanks Portia for confiding in her. If the truth came out, it could hurt Trina. Portia says, it could have been devastating.

Trina slips out of the party.

Ava tells Portia, Drew has a lot of powerful enemies – Nina, Carly, Curtis, Jason, Michael. All the Quartermaines hate him and it’s only a matter of time before his house of cards collapses and one of his many other enemies takes care of him for her. Portia says, someone needs to do something and do it soon.

Curtis can’t find Trina and hopes she’s okay, but Stella says she was here quite a while. It was almost like having the old Trina back, but she might have gotten overwhelmed. A party like this might have had her thinking about Spencer. Curtis says he hates to think it put a black mark on Trina’s special night, but Stella says, it didn’t. Grief doesn’t have a timeline and it’s often felt in our happiest moments.

Kai looks around the party, then sends a text.

Sitting on the window seat in her dark apartment, Trina takes out the art book Spencer gave her. She looks at the inscription and holds the book to her chest.

Lois checks to make sure Brook is gone, and Gloria says, if Brook is this upset about finding out she knew about the baby, imagine how angry she’ll be that they know who the baby is. Lois says she knows, and Gloria says, Brook can never know, and what they did tonight proved why.

Rocco comes home and Lulu asks, how was grandpa’s house? Rocco says, he changed stuff, and it was weird without Charlotte. Charlotte comes out and says, it doesn’t have to be weird anymore, and they hug.

Carly joins Jack in the shower, and he says he had a feeling she’d change her mind. She tells him, make room, but before she can take her robe off, there’s a knock at the door. She says she’ll be right back, and he gives her a kiss and says, hurry.

Kristina says, Sonny has a heart condition? How long has this been going on? He says he’s okay. He’s fine. She says, then why didn’t he want to tell her? and he says, she’d worry for no reason. She says, of course (🍷) she’d worry. What did Dr. Gannon say? He says, it’s from an injury that happened a long time ago and Isaiah put him on the right path. He’ll have to do a procedure, but everything will be fine. He just has to reduce stress. She says, that’s why he agreed to joint custody. he didn’t want the stress of a trial. He says, that’s part of the reason. He didn’t want to watch Ric put her and Avery on the stand. He didn’t want to put either of his daughters through that.  

Carly finds a serving cart in the hallway with a bucket of champagne and two glasses on it. She makes a happy sound, brings them into the room, and closes the door. Valentin comes out from around the corner, and boy, does he look pissed.

On Monday, Anna says, the marshal is here to serve an arrest warrant; Brook says, Drew picked a fight with the wrong broad: and Jack tells Carly, don’t! and knocks the glass out of her hand.  

🧼  All the Soap News Fit To Print…

It looks like there will be a new lawyer in town and maybe a love interest for Lucas.

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/adrian-anchondo-cast-as-marco-on-general-hospital

Gloria returns!

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/ellen-travolta-returns-to-general-hospital-2

Maybe he had a good time, but it was painful to watch. This guy is no actor. He sounded like he was reading it and didn’t even read it well.

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/the-golden-bachelorettes-guy-gansert-guests-on-gh

Two requests of the fans.

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/ghs-cameron-mathison-makes-a-special-request

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/eva-larues-warning-to-her-fans

Side gigs. I haven’t read Jon Lindstrom’s book yet, but I want to. Although now I can just wait and see the movie. Well done!

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/jon-lindstroms-book-to-become-a-movie

I don’t know how exciting this is, but if she’s happy, I’m happy.

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/kelly-monaco-announces-an-exciting-new-project

This was weird/sad, but it sounded like he was getting treatment.

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/rick-springfield-learns-he-has-brain-damage

Victor has moved on from the building.

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/days-of-our-lives/charles-shaughnessy-returns-to-days-of-our-lives

💉 A Dose Of Reality…

Below Deck Down Under

I didn’t see this, but it seems to fluctuate between dangerous accidents and nookie.

Real Housewives of Beverly Hills

Boz was hosting a trip to St. Lucia and informed us that it’s the only country named after a woman. We watched as the women packed, and I’m not sure why Erika called my shorts ho shorts, but I was offended. Aren’t shorts supposed to be short? When getting a less than enthusiastic response about an outfit from son Phoenix, Dorit told him, it’s Poca Rabone, like that meant something to him. Boz said getting them all together to travel was like herding cats, so they were meeting in Miami. In her interview, Boz said, beautiful views, delicious cocktails, a steel drum band. Who would complain? Really? Has she met them? In Jennifer’s interview, she talked about not fitting in when she was young, and Sutton cried over her long road with the women and how Garcelle had been the only one to support her. Kyle would say, you two, but never point the finger at Dorit alone. Mauricio visited Kyle and talked about going on  It was the usual, just in a different vacation setting. PK met with Dorit, where the D-word was used, yet Dorit is still in the denial phase. Kyle, however, was sliding into acceptance after Mauricio visited and told her about his quest for weed spiritual healing.

Some non-news. Maybe she’s a girlfriend; maybe she’s not.

Denise Richards and Her Wild Things

I love this show so much. A lot of episode 3 revolved around a Cuban iguana named Godzilla who had passed away at age 30. He’d belonged to Charlie’s ex, Brooke, and was dropped off at Denise’s house when Brooke went to rehab. He liked Fig Newtons and had an entire suite to himself. They had him for nine months, and a memorial was planned. There were a lot of flowers, as well as some heartfelt speeches. Denise also met with Erika (RHOBH) and they clinked glasses and made up. Another thing I love about Denise is her love of animals. She even got a little picnic table for the squirrels outside, one of whom she called Fat Fred, but she insisted she wasn’t fat shaming him. Sami was getting a nose job and said she’d been bullied in school about looking like her dad. Recently, someone had made a comment that she’d never be as pretty as her mom. WTF? Ugh. It’s one of the things I hate about the internet. Anonymity has created mean AF a-holes.

Summer House

Kyle discussed his misdirected rage texting with Paige and said he was super upset. Aww. Poor baby. He’s always super upset about something. I’m pretty sure he lives off of super upset energy. One thing I really hate about this group is their tendency to play telephone. Really, their tendency to just make sh*t up to suit themselves. Lexi had asked Jesse not to be so flirtatious in his comments on the other girls’ social media and somehow this got changed to her demanding he not comment at all. And that literally came from horse Jesse’s mouth. She needs to dump this dude asap. One minute he’s all in love like never before, and the next, he’s making it up as he goes along. The tail end of the show was in NYC with Paige and Craig. When Paige said she never wanted to live a slow life, that said everything. While no judgement about relationships that are ephemeral, if you’re not on the same page regarding commitment, it’s for certain someone is going to get their heart broken.

Southern Charm

Craig told Paige about making up with Austen and how he thought his admission that he couldn’t drink was like holding up a mirror to Austen. He might not be wrong. Paige complimented Craig on his self-awareness. Austen later came by for a visit, and I forgot which show I was watching for a moment. The big topic once again involved JT. Venita wanted him to be her plus one at a summer soiree Madison was giving. JT was hesitant, but said he’d think about it. He talked to Leva about it and said he didn’t know if it was appropriate while he had a girlfriend, and also admitted he’d probably encouraged Venita by flirting. But the best was yet to come when Leva told him that Ryan used the same barber, who apparently told him that JT said some Black girl was trying to bust up his relationship. Once again, although I’m no fan of JT, I couldn’t see him saying something like that. Neither could Leva or Venita, but in Venita’s interview, she said, Ryan’s husband was Black, so why would he lie? Why indeed. JT was livid, since it made him sound racist. On top of it, racist about someone he cared for. Leva said he should call the barber immediately and get it cleared up for Venita’s sake. Translation: So we can get it on the show. He did and the barber seemed surprised, saying, the only thing he remembered JT telling him was that there was a cute Black girl named Venita on the show. When JT called Venita to tell her, I’m pretty sure all she heard though was that he loved her.

On the upside, Brett got the cancer all-clear on his last test and Molly and Taylor took their dogs out for ice cream.

What’s JT up to? Not much. No surprise. I can’t blame him for jetting though. The Reunion should be interesting.

Random Reality Items

VPR 2.0 is on the way.

This is the weirdest thing ever and I can’t believe it’s still going on.

Don’t let the door hit your ass on the way out.

What a shame. Hopefully, those left in the cast invested in real estate.

👀 Last Weekend’s Watch…

Extinction: The G.M.O. Chronicles. Amazon Prime. I am a die-hard zombie fan and I did enjoy this. There was precious little info out there and this review is less than stellar. There is the trailer though.

Okay. This guy liked it more, but there are a few small spoilers.

The Night Eats the World. Amazon Prime. This film won awards, and I didn’t hate it, but there were long stretches of not much going on and the main character chatting with – or rather, to – a zombie he had corralled in a stalled elevator. Be forewarned, the ending is not a happy one.

https://www.indiewire.com/features/general/night-eats-the-world-review-zombies-tribeca-1201954987/

Beyond the Gates. CBS/Paramount+. I finally got serious about watching this and I’m hooked on watching it with my dinner now. It’s oddly old-fashioned and trendy at the same time. Beautiful people, an inclusive cast, fabulous wardrobes, and a gun drawn at a wedding. You can’t really ask for more.

https://www.soapoperanetwork.com/2025/03/cbs-beyond-the-gates-promo-tv-critics

🙀 Things You Don’t See Every Day…

🦒 I’m not letting my dogs read this. It might give them ideas.

https://people.com/athletic-giraffe-escapes-arizona-zoo-to-get-snacks-11695093

🐻‍❄️ Pretty as a picture. Oh wait, it is.

https://people.com/photo-sleeping-polar-bear-wins-nature-photography-contest-11690907

🐾 It’s a ferret! It’s a ferret’s ghost! It’s a stoat!

https://people.com/rarely-seen-animal-caught-on-camera-in-pennsylvania-11693659

👄 Quotes of the Week

Whatever women do they must do twice as well as men to be thought half as good. Luckily, this is not difficult. – Charlotte Whitton

You’re in pretty good shape for the shape you are in. – Dr. Seuss

You are not your resumé; you are your work. – Seth Godin

Life is the art of drawing sufficient conclusions from insufficient premises. – Samuel Butler

You aren’t learning anything when you’re talking. – Lyndon B. Johnson

Great things are not done by impulse, but by a series of small things brought together. – Vincent van Gogh

Remember: Always walk in the light. And if you feel like you’re not walking in it, go find it. Love the light. – Roberta Flack

The mosquitos are d*ckheads out here. – Channelle (Aisha Dee), Apple Cider Vinegar

🍀 Top O’ the Month To Ya…

Until next week, stay safe; stay not using St. Patrick’s Day to be a green beer drunken mess (also don’t be another kind of Karen and drive drunk); and stay loving people while they’re still here.