What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

🍕 Weekday Slices…                                                                          

Monday: 

Brook met Chase at the Brown Dog Bar.

At the bar, Carly griped to Jason about Michael’s custody agreement and Ric handling it.

Ric brought a dressed-up Elizabeth to the hatchet range.

Jacinda brought Michael to the hatchet range, and he said he’d been thinking candlelight dinner, elegant, maybe a tablecloth. She said this place screamed elegance and threw her hatchet. It hit close to the bullseye. She told him, imagine the target is Drew’s melonhead.

Sidwell, Lucy, and Ava dined at the MetroCourt, and Ava said she hadn’t realized it was Valentine’s Day. Lucy said, in Ava’s life, it must be just another day, and Ava said Lucy must have been hoping for a romantic evening and instead, they were droning on about a Botero.

At a nearby table, Alexis said she was surprised Molly invited them and not Cody, and Kristina said Molly had something to tell Alexis. Molly said she wrote a new book.

In her office, Britt told Nathan that either Anna had a nervous breakdown or… There was no actual proof Faison was alive, right? Obrecht ran in and said she had joyous news. Maxie was awake.

Maxie told Felicia to call the doctor, since she was sure Felicia just said Nathan was alive. Felicia said he was and had been living in Port Charles for the last six months.

Marco asked how much Lucas heard, and Lucas said enough to know he had Marco all wrong.

Obrecht said she hadn’t spoken to Maxie herself, but hearing from Nathan would rejuvenate her. Britt said Obrecht had no idea what she was asking.

Maxie said it made so sense. She’d buried Nathan. Felicia said she felt the same way, but Anna proved it.

Carly told Jason that Sonny insisted Ric had no agenda, but she didn’t buy it, and Michael wouldn’t have signed it without Sonny’s influence. Jason’s phone rang and he said Spinelli needed to see him.

Michael threw his ax and it bounced off the target and onto the floor.

Ric said he wanted to take Elizabeth somewhere offbeat. Molly said the hatchet range was fun, but maybe he miscalculated. She asked if he was implying she didn’t know how to have fun, but he said, no, never, but he had to admit she had a cautious streak. She said she’d grab some drinks and he could grab some axes.

Lucas followed Marco inside, and Marco admitted he was talking about Sonny. Lucas said it didn’t sound good. What was the project and why did they need Britt under control? That didn’t sound like legal advice. It sounded like he was threatening to kill Britt if she didn’t do what they wanted. If he was wrong, tell him.  

Lucy told Sidwell a story and he laughed. Ava didn’t, and he asked if it was the story or her martini? Ava said maybe this wasn’t the atmosphere to discuss the Botero and they should go to the gallery, but Sidwell said he’d hoped they could all be friends. Lucy said, in the spirit of friendship, she’d been unfair to Ava. Who was she to judge? Weren’t they all allowed to reinvent themselves once in a while?

Alexis said she didn’t know Molly was writing a book, but Molly said it wasn’t a big deal. Kristina said Molly’s agent was crazy excited and had an editor on board already, and Alexis said she was proud of Molly, but Molly said she’d decided not to publish.

Lucas got loud and said Britt wasn’t there as a concierge doctor and Marco had threatened to end her life. The lies ended there. Marco said, it was his father, and Lucas said, but he knew. Marco said, yes, and Lucas said it made Marco just as guilty and made him a fool for believing in him. He’d defended Marco to everyone including his sister. Marco looked pained, and Lucas said he’d believed every lie, but no more. He started to leave, but Marco grabbed him and said he wasn’t going anywhere.

Brook told Chase that she had no details, but Maxie should be coming home soon. Tonight was about them. They reminisced about past Valentine’s Days, and Chase wondered if the Brown Dog was romantic enough. She said it wasn’t the place; it was them together. He said, forever, and they kissed.

Spinelli joined Carly and Jason and apologized for the intrusion. He had news that couldn’t wait. Earlier today, Maxie awoke. She was up and talking like nothing happened. He was thrilled and grateful and surprised, and couldn’t wrap his mind around it. Carly had to leave for the MetroCourt, and Jason said it was great news. Spinelli said, indeed. He knew all he should feel was relief that his lady love came back to him, but the green-eyed monster… Jason said Spinelli was worried about Nathan, and Spinelli said, what happened when Maxie found out he was still alive?

Felicia explained how they confirmed it was Nathan, but Maxie said she’d buried him. Felicia said Anna had Nathan exhumed because they had to be sure, and there was no body. She hadn’t believed it either, but when she talked him, she knew it was Nathan.

Britt said they didn’t know if Maxie knew Nathan was alive, and Nathan agreed that it couldn’t be rushed. Not just for Maxie’s sake, but for James. Obrecht said, of course (🍷) Nathan was putting others’ needs before his own. She’d follow his instincts and they’d go slowly and carefully, because he and Maxie were meant to be together. Nothing would get in the way of that.

Jacinda said Michael was remarkably bad at ax throwing, but he said it was on purpose. She said, really? and he said, no. She said, a lot of guys couldn’t handle a woman beating them, but he didn’t care, and he said he was glad she didn’t care that he was flawed. They were about to toast, but she stopped, and he asked if she was anti-toasting. She said, there was one born every minute.

Elizabeth hit close to the bullseye, and Ric said they’d call it one, but she said she didn’t need his pity points. Besides, it was cheating. She couldn’t remember the last time she had a night out. He said she was a head nurse and a mom. It was understandable that fun wasn’t a priority. She said, maybe it should be.

Alexis asked why Molly submitted the book to her agent, but Molly said she didn’t submit anything. Kristina said she’d asked to read it, loved it, and sent it. Molly’s agent also loved it and thought it would be a massive hit. Alexis said, only if Molly wanted it to be, and Kristina asked Molly to tell Alexis why she didn’t want it published. Molly said because it would hurt Cody’s feelings.

Carly stopped by Sidwell’s table and thanked him for opening his home for her to make up with her brother, and he said it was his pleasure. His son’s happiness was paramount and Lucas made Marco happy.

Lucas told Marco to get his hands off him and backed away. Marco said he never lied about his feelings. He loved Lucas and wanted to build a life with him. Lucas said they could have done that on the mainland. Marco had been manipulating him the whole time. He didn’t move to this godforsaken island because it was the next step. It was so Marco had easy access to his dad to carry out… what? What was he extorting Britt to do? Marco said he’d brought Lucas there because he wanted them to be together day in and day out. He’d risked everything for him.

Jason said he was sure Maxie would be happy that Nathan was alive, but it didn’t mean she’d stop loving Spinelli. Spinelli said he agreed, but it was the kind of love she had that was the problem. She loved him as a companion, Georgie’s father, and the friend who eventually won her over. Her relationship with Nathan was different. When she saw how wonderful he was with James, why wouldn’t she go back to him? Jason wondered why Spinelli could see Nathan clearly, but not himself.

Felicia told Maxie that Nathan showed up with no phone, no ID, and remembered nothing from the past seven years. He remembered being shot and everything before. He remembered her, Georgie, and that there was a baby on the way. Maxie wondered what he’d been doing, and Felicia said the working theory was that it had something to do with Faison, and Maxie said, don’t tell her that Faison was back from the dead. Felicia said Faison was still dead, but Britt was also alive. She’d shown up before Nathan. Maxie said Britt and Nathan being back at the same time was not a coincidence.

Nathan said he knew Obrecht was coming from a good place, but please let them figure it out for themselves, and Obrecht promised not to interfere. Britt suggested he get it in writing, and Nathan thanked Obrecht for telling him about Maxie. He left to take a walk and clear his head, and Obrecht said he was guarding his heart, afraid to hope in their reunion. Britt said she knew that’s what Obrecht wanted, but she had no idea what Maxie and Nathan wanted. Maxie was with Spinelli now. They had a daughter and were raising a family. Obrecht said Maxie had a child with Nathan too, but Britt said people moved on and she needed to respect that. Obrecht said time was precious and could be stolen at any moment. Who knew how much time they had with the people they loved?

As she brushed Maxie’s hair, Felicia said Britt’s situation was different. She remembered everything and had orchestrated the whole thing herself. She’d made herself disappear and hadn’t known Nathan was alive or what happened to him. Maxie asked if she believed that, and Felicia said she didn’t know what to believe where Britt was concerned, but she thought Nathan was telling the truth. He seemed as confused and mystified as the rest of them. Maxie asked how he was doing, and Felicia said, wonderful. He was the same old Nathan, concerned about everybody but himself. Maxie was the first person he’d asked about and the second was the baby. Maxie said, who wasn’t such a baby anymore. Did he meet James? What did James think of his father?

Jason told Spinelli, give Maxie some credit. She didn’t settle; she chose him. Spinelli said, at the time, Nathan wasn’t a choice. Now he was the large, chiseled one. Jason said Maxie had to tell Spinelli how she felt. She might surprise him. Jason’s phone dinged, and he saw a text of a boat, snowflake, and heart emoji.

Molly said Cody didn’t understand she’d been writing the book before she knew him and was able to see who he was – amazing. That’s what happened in the book. Kristina said, which he would have known had he bothered to read past the second chapter. Molly said, Cody had every right to be upset. The main character was inspired by him and wasn’t portrayed in the best light. Kristina said, then he became the hero and the heroine fell in love with him, and Alexis said it was like Pride and Prejudice. Kristina said it was so good, but Molly said, not good enough to ruin a relationship. She’d written it as a hobby, but it wasn’t more important than Cody. Kristina asked if Molly should stifle her talent for Cody’s sake. It was a bad example for her niece. Molly said their niece had nothing to do with it and she wouldn’t be in this position if Kristina hadn’t stolen her book. Alexis said she thought what was best for Scout was that they be nice to each other and make room for each other’s differences. She had to check in with the sitter and told them to try to be nice to each other while she was gone.  

Lucy said she thought it was wonderful that Lucas forgave Carly and lovely that she’d chosen accept Marco and his amazing father. Carly said, lovely is the word, and hoped they had a great evening. Alexis ran into Ava and said it was interesting company that she was keeping. She had a quick question. Was Jenz Sidwell worth the wrath of Lucy Coe? Ava said, after the fiasco with Ric, she was interested in men of a different caliber. Sidwell was that man and she wouldn’t let Lucy Coe or anybody else run him off.

Marco told Lucas that his father had been trying to bring him into his business since he was 18, but said he’d represent him in his legal affairs. That was it. Lucas said, clearly, things had changed, and Marco said Sonny was the reason his mother was dead. He started to cry and said, no one was holding Sonny accountable except his father, who’d promised him justice. Lucas asked if that’s why Marco was working for him, and Marco said, yes. Lucas asked why he should believe Marco, and Marco said because Lucas knew better than anyone what it meant to lose a mother.

Lucas said, don’t drag his mother into this, and Marco asked how Lucas felt when he heard she was gone and realized he’d never hear her voice again or tell her the things… he thought there would be time to say. Imagine if she hadn’t passed away peacefully in her sleep. His mother took her life, and he knew who was to blame. Lucas said he wanted justice, and Marco said it was all he wanted, but Lucas said, no. He heard Marco, the tone in his voice. He didn’t want justice. He wanted revenge. Did the conversation end with Sonny in a hospital bed or the morgue? He couldn’t be a part of this. Marco said that’s why he lied. He didn’t want to put Lucas in that position. Lucas said, yet here I am, and Marco said he thought he wanted vengeance more than anything, but it turned out that he wanted Lucas just as much. Lucas said he couldn’t have it both ways, and crying, Marco said, I’ll stop. Please stay with me.

Jacinda said she couldn’t believe Michael was drinking a Black Mallard, and he said it’s what he liked. She said, so would she if it was the real deal, and he asked if she thought they were pouring well liquor into the bottle. She said she could almost guarantee it, and he took a sip. He said it was Black Mallard. He wasn’t handy with an ax, but knew his scotch and could prove it by taking a blind taste test.

Ric got a bullseye, and told Elizabeth, ha! And that’s how it’s done. He did a dance, slipped, and fell. She said, exactly like that? Was he okay? He said he was, and they laughed.

Alexis came back and Kristina said it was Molly’s book and Molly’s decision. She was sorry she’d intervened. How about if they buried the hatchet – literally. Alexis said she wished she could, but she had to relieve the sitter. Have fun. Molly and Kristina left.  

Felicia told Maxie that it took time for James to adjust, but Nathan was patient and eventually, James warmed up to him. Now they were two peas in a pod. James adored his father. Maxie said she couldn’t believe this was actually happening, and Felicia said she knew it was a lot. How was she doing? Maxie said she thought it was a miracle that James’s father was back, but she’d watched Nathan die and there was no explanation for this. Felicia said, take all the time she needed to absorb it. She should probably get some rest. Maxie said she was exhausted, but terrified to closed her eyes. What if she didn’t wake up again?

Brook said, poor Spinelli. He must be over the moon that Maxie is awake… Chase said, then Nathan throws a wrench in his world. What would Brook do in her place?

At the Brown Dog, Obrecht ordered schnapps, and saw Spinelli. She said she was thrilled to run into him. She was grateful for the love and guidance he’d shown when Maxie was in a jam. He’d held Maxie’s family together remarkably well. He said he’d do anything for Maxie, and she said, clearly his efforts were no longer necessary. Maxie was awake and coming home to reunite with her beloved Nathan.

In the old harbormaster’s cabin, Britt wondered if the wood could be any wetter, when Jason came in and said, let him. She said he’d cracked her code, and he said, a boat, a snowflake, and a heart. It had to mean this place. It had to mean her.

Chase said, say Brook thought he died and she fell in love and then he came back, and she said, first off, he was never leaving her. She’d feel sorry for the future guy. She would forever and always choose him. They kissed.

Kristina and Molly walked into the hatchet range, and Kristina said, this was a good idea. Seeing Michael with Jacinda and Elizabeth with Ric, she added, but apparently not original.

Elizabeth thanked Ric for a fun night, and he said they should do it more often. She said she thought they just might, and they kissed.  

Her hands over Michael’s eyes, Jacinda said, what if Michael got it right? He said, the winner received a favor to be named later, and she said those were broad parameters and she had a vivid imagination. He said he’d take his chances, and drank. He admitted not knowing which was which. What was the favor? She said she’d think of something.

Ava told Sidwell that she’d just heard from the seller. Maybe they should head to the gallery to sign off on the purchase. Lucy was welcome to join them, but she wasn’t sure Lucy would find it interesting. Lucy said she was going to sit with her delicious souffle. Please go and enjoy his expensive art. Sidwell said it had been a memorable evening. He hoped the three of them would do it again soon. Lucy said he could count on it, and he left with Ava.

Carly said Michael told her about the custody arrangement and that Alexis had a hand in the negotiations, and Alexis said she doubted Carly was happy. Carly said, not at all, but she got that Alexis was doing all she could to make sure Scout stayed with her. She didn’t have to like it to respect it.  

Maxie said she was terrified to go to sleep. She was afraid of lapsing into a coma again. Felicia said that wasn’t going to happen. Did Maxie remember when she had nightmares as a little girl? Maxie said Felicia would hold her hand until she fell back asleep, and Felicia took her hand. She said, close your eyes. I’m not going anywhere.

Obrecht said one thing she’d learned was that true love always found its way, and Spinelli said he couldn’t agree more. They clinked glasses.

Maxie slept, when Felicia’s phone rang. She went into the hallway and said she was wondering when she’d hear from them. Nathan said he just found out, and she said she was with Maxie now. She’d fallen asleep, but they were coming back tomorrow. Maxie couldn’t wait to see him.

Marco said once his father’s project was finished, he was done with all of it, and Lucas said, what about Britt? Marco said she would be done too. He’d make sure of it. He needed to stay until the project was finished. Please. He needed Lucas to believe in him. He held out his hand and after hesitating a moment, Lucas took it. They hugged, but Lucas looked scared.

Jason said Britt took a risk, and she asked why he came. He said because she’d texted. Why do it? She said, because time could be stolen from them at any moment. They shouldn’t waste a second they had together. They kissed.

Tuesday:

Lucas showed up at the MetroCourt and Carly said she’d like to bring their family and Marco’s family together.

Tracy went to Windymere and told Sidwell that they needed to get a few things straight.

At the MetroCourt, Ric told Sonny that he could pick up some of Diane’s slack. Since he was moving operations to Rochester, he needed someone who knew contracts. Turner came in, and Sonny asked her to join them. She said she had update on Rocco.

Laura asked Alexis to come to her office. It had to do with Congressman Cain.

At the hospital, Willow told Elizabeth that she was tendering her resignation.

Chase was at the station, when Molly told Nathan that she was recusing herself from the case. Nathan said they had no new leads against Michael and maybe the case had run its course.

Michael saw Dante in the nook and wondered if they were no longer speaking.

Laura said Drew’s office had been cagey about his condition, and Alexis said his stroke had been serious. He was locked inside himself and couldn’t communicate. He wouldn’t be able to complete his term.

Willow said, right now her family had to be her priority, and Elizabeth said she could extend her leave of absence, but Willow said Drew needed to be properly taken care of. Elizabeth said there were professionals for that, but Willow said, for now, Drew stayed with her.

Molly told Chase that she’d recused herself, and he said he hadn’t meant to imply she was acting improperly. She said she had to avoid even the appearance of impropriety, and could cross a line without realizing. She was moving on and he should do the same.

Dante said, as Michael’s brother, he wanted to talk, but he was acting Police Commissioner. He wasn’t overseeing the case, but it was still his responsibility. Until it was over, it would benefit them both to keep their distance. Michael said it was also an excuse. Wasn’t Dante angry that he lied? Dante said, of course (🍷). He knew Michael’s alibi was shaky, but gave him the benefit of the doubt and it came back to bite him. Michael said he was sorry he’d made the wrong call.

Carly wanted to have Marco and Sidwell over for dinner, but Lucas said it was a terrible idea. She said she wasn’t cooking, and he said that was a given. She was right and he owed her a huge apology.

Tracy said Maxie had recovered and was eager to get to work, but Sidwell doubted she came all this way to tell him in person. She said his days of free reign over Deception were done. Flattering Lucy had gotten him control. Sidwell said when Maxie collapsed publicly, so did Deception’s stock. He took over their transport needs as a favor. She said she wanted a full audit, a detailed documentation of every single shipment.

Ric asked if Rocco was a problem, but Turner said, the opposite. He was doing a great job and logging tons of hours. He’d probably fulfill his sentence ahead of schedule. Sonny said he was grateful for the suspended sentence, and Ric thanked her for signing off on the plea deal. She said she had her reasons.

Michael said he hadn’t wanted to put Dante in the position of having to report it. He didn’t do it, but was the most likely suspect. He needed Dante to find the shooter. Dante asked if Michael was out for justice, and Michael said he was out to save his own ass. He hoped everyone, including Dante, would see he was innocent, and Dante said him too.

Chase said he assumed Nathan was still working on the case, but Nathan said he couldn’t discuss it. Chase said he thought they’d overlooked how Michael could get in Drew’s house.

Willow told Elizabeth that if it became too much, she’d find long-term care for Drew, but didn’t think it was right to start with that. When the time was right, she’d come back to nursing. She was rebuilding her life and unfortunately, leaving GH was the first step.

Sidwell thought an audit was excessive and didn’t want to burden Maxie with it, but Tracy said Maxie wouldn’t be performing the audit. He said he’d give her information on any shipment she wanted, but she said she wanted every single number on every single shipment. He said he was confused. Deception was back in the black, largely thanks to him. She said he’d mistaken Deception for a subsidy of SRE Worldwide. She wanted to go back to the original agreement where he just supplied the zincite.

Lucas said he was so sorry. Carly said Marco was involved in Sidwell’s business. He’d believed Marco, but overheard Marco and his dad and they were working on something illegal. He had no clue what, and got out of there fast.

Laura asked if Scout had seen her father, and Alexis said Willow thought Scout should get settled first. Laura said there was an empty seat in congress and Governor Mendez had called her. Port Charles was the largest city in Drew’s district, and he’d asked for a recommendation. Alexis said if Laura wasn’t the mayor, she’d suggest her, and Laura said, actually, she had the perfect person in mind – Alexis.

Sidwell asked why Tracy cared. Deception was a blip on the Quartermaine financial radar and there was no love lost between her and Lucy. Tracy said she wanted all her investments to be profitable, but her granddaughter was a partner, as was Maxie. For those reasons and more, she wanted the company to be successful and out from under him. He said he preferred his arrangement stay the way it was, but she said, not an option. He suggested she find another hobby. He wasn’t going anywhere. He asked Pascal to show Tracy out. They were done.

Lucas said he couldn’t go into details, and Carly asked if he was going to the police or the WSB. He said he didn’t want Marco arrested. Sidwell took advantage of him when he was emotionally vulnerable. He knew they loved each other. Carly asked what if Marco told Sidwell, but Lucas said, he wouldn’t. She said he didn’t know that, but Lucas said he knew Marco. He couldn’t walk away. At least not yet. Carly said, of course (🍷) he could, but he wouldn’t. Still, he couldn’t stay at Windymere one more day.

Ric said most ADA’s would have thrown the book at Rocco to make a name for themselves, and Turner said Rocco’s accuser was unreliable. Forensics supported none of his claims and he must have realized, since he disappeared. The charge was trespassing and a plea deal was the best choice. Ric said it spoke well of her that she didn’t punish Rocco for Sonny’s reputation, and she said she didn’t fight proxy battles. Sonny said Turner was always up for a fair fight.

Chase said Drew’s house had no sign of forced entry and they must have entered in the back using a key, and Nathan said a lot of people had keys. Chase asked how he could be 100% sure Michael didn’t have a copy.

Dante wondered how he could be sure he didn’t subconsciously push the investigation away from evidence or not want Michael to be guilty, and Michael said he was a great cop with great instincts. Dante said Michael should have told him the truth and let him do his job, and Michael said he trusted Dante, but not the legal system and Dante knew why. Dante said, for what it was worth (🍷), he had faith that Nathan would find out the truth, and Michael said that was all he wanted. Dante left.

Dante went to the station, and told Nathan that he heard Maxie woke up. Nathan said he was all over the place. He was invited to Maxie’s welcome home party, but wanted to wait for Maxie to reach out first. He had something he thought they should have jumped on sooner or possibly overlooked, and Dante asked, what? Nathan said, what if Michael had a key to Drew’s house?  

Pascal told Sidwell that Lucas had been eavesdropping on his conversation with Marco. He didn’t know what Lucas heard, but he had his ear to the living room doors. Sidwell asked what Lucas said when Pascal confronted him, but Pascal said he decided it was best that Lucas not know he was caught. Sidwell wondered why Marco didn’t say anything to him. Perhaps he chose not to pursue it. Pascal said, perhaps he did and was keeping the conversation from Sidwell. Lucas had Marco wrapped around his little finger. If Lucas confronted Marco, could he trust that Marco would come to him?

Lucas said it was his life and his relationship and he could handle Marco, but Carly said Marco wasn’t who he’d thought. How could he trust Marco? He asked how many times Sonny lied to her, but she said she knew who Sonny was at the beginning. Marco was hiding a big piece of his life. If he’d known from the beginning, would he still have gotten involved?  

Sonny said Turner’s talent in the courtroom was better than her talent on the ballfield, and she said if she had a chance to put him on trial, she’d bring her A-game. She left, and Ric asked what was going on between Sonny and the ADA. Who was playing who? Sonny said Turner was ambitious, sharp, and always lobbying for high profile cases. She also never met a press conference she didn’t like, and wouldn’t hesitate to put him behind bars. Ric said, as the former DA who ruined his career by trying to take Sonny down, why was Turner having pleasant conversation with him instead of doing everything she possibly could to put him away?

Chase saw Michael in the nook and walked past him. Michael asked if they could find a way to co-exist. The tension was hard on everyone. Chase said it would make it easier if Michael would turn himself in. He was sure Diane could get him a generous plea deal. Michael said he didn’t frame Willow. The gun was found in her belongings because she shot Drew. Chase said, Willow would never shoot anyone. Michael, on the other hand… Tracy stormed in and said Chase was still blaming Michael for Drew’s shooting, and Chase said, wasn’t it enough that Willow was unjustly accused? Tracy said, Willow was unjustly acquitted.

Willow said she’d put herself on this path and would see it through to the end, and Elizabeth said it wasn’t like they wouldn’t see each other, but the place wouldn’t be the same without Willow. They hugged and Willow thanked her for everything.  

Alexis said she was flattered, but had never considered running for public office, and Laura said that was good news. Port Charles didn’t need a career politician. She had integrity and would fight for their best interest. Alexis said she’d gone to prison, and Laura said she’d paid her debt to society. Alexis said she was disbarred, and Laura said she’d been reinstated. She thought that demonstrated Alexis’s ability to navigate bureaucracy in pursuit of justice. Alexis thought that was a stretch, but Laura didn’t. She said, the most important thing was that Alexis was someone she could work with, in a way she never could with Drew. Alexis said the bar had been set low. Just don’t use the seat to enact petty vendettas. Laura said Alexis wouldn’t be using the higher office as a steppingstone. She’d want the best for Port Charles, and they’d make a good team.

Lucas said Marco represented his father’s corporate interests, but got in deeper after his mom died, and Carly said she thought Marco and Natalia were estranged. He said, that made it worse. They had no chance to reconcile. Marco thought Sidwell would help him get closure, so he got involved in Sidwell’s business. Carly said, business was the word Sonny always used, and he said Marco promised once this was over, he’d keep his distance, so he agreed to stay for now.

Sidwell said he valued Pascal, but never question is son’s loyalty. Pascal said, before Lucas, he had no reason to think so. Sidwell said he didn’t want unnecessary friction with Marco unless absolutely necessary (😐), but he did hear Pascal. Keep an eye on Lucas and make sure he had no more chances to eavesdrop. Pascal asked, what if Lucas demanded Marco choose between him and Sidwell? He understood that Marco remained here to monitor Britt. Sidwell said, if Lucas persuaded Marco to leave, he’d be there to console his son at Lucas’s funeral.

Alexis said she wasn’t sure, but Laura thought she was a natural. they needed someone who understood local issues and could represent them well on a federal level, so they got the support they needed. They could disagree and still work together. Alexis said she didn’t think compromise was a weakness, and Laura said she saw Alexis as someone who wouldn’t put special interests ahead of the people she represented. She wouldn’t let Sidwell use the town for his personal gain. Alexis said Laura would like her to help fight Sidwell?

Molly saw Elizabeth at the hospital and asked if she had a nice Valentine’s Day. She saw Elizabeth and Ric at the hatchet range. She was there with Kristina, but they didn’t stay. They got the sense she and Ric didn’t want to be interrupted.

Nathan said he asked if Michael had the key and he’d said no, and Turner asked if he could take Michael’s word for it. He said, if Michael did have a copy, there was no way to tell when he came into possession of it, and she said they’d start by getting a search warrant.

Willow went to Windymere, and said, Sidwell wanted to see her? and he asked her to call him Jenz.

Molly said she was happy to see Elizabeth and Ric having fun, and Elizabeth said it was fun. And a reminder of how unpredictable Ric could be. Molly said Elizabeth was important to Ric. She’d made a big difference in his life. Elizabeth said she enjoyed spending time with him, and lately, it had been easy and fun.

Sonny said Turner wasn’t out to ruin him, and Ric asked if Sonny liked her. Sonny said, what’s not to like? She was attractive and fair. She’d come after him if she had the chance, but wouldn’t abuse her power to do it. Ric said, so they were friends, and Sonny said they knew where they stood with each other. Ric asked if Sonny was interested in Turner. Not as a respected opponent, but as a woman.

Turner told Dante that she was turning over the case to another prosecutor. She was biased, still believing Willow was guilty. She also didn’t want to wreck her career by publicly admitting they had the wrong person. She didn’t want to be near that, and he should steer clear too.

Chase said, Willow didn’t shoot Drew. Michael did. Michael said he didn’t, and Tracy said Chase was a wonderful man and made her granddaughter happy. But if he couldn’t let this go, he was in the wrong family. Nathan came in and apologized for the intrusion. He was there to serve Michael a search warrant for the keys to Drew’s house. Tracy said they had to call Diane first, but Michael said it was fine. He wouldn’t oppose it – he handed Nathan his keyring – starting with these.  

Carly said, if Marco loved Lucas, Marco wouldn’t let him near his father. Sidwell was dangerous. Lucas said he knew. That was why he was taking Marco with him when he got away from Sidwell.

Laura said she knew it was a lot, but believed she and Alexis could do an awful lot of good for Port Charles. Alexis said she’d consider it, and Laura said, tomorrow. Every day that the seat was empty, the city paid. Alexis said she’d think it over and let Laura know as soon as she could. Laura said, I hope it’s not too long, Congressman Davis.

Sidwell said he’d heard Willow was caring for her husband alone at home, and Willow said she was trying to do the right thing for Drew. Sidwell said, of course (🍷). She was a very appealing public figure, sympathetic and brave. She’d been publicly exonerated, was a cancer survivor, and a nurse. She was a devoted mother who’d repeatedly stood up to the corrupt Quartermaine and Corinthos families. Willow thanked him, but still wasn’t sure why she was there. He said, when a member of congress was incapacitated, it wasn’t unheard of for the spouse to take over and finish the term. He thought she was uniquely qualified to take Drew’s place in Washington.

Wednesday:

Nathan told Dante that he’d gotten a search warrant, but Michael gave him his keys.

Willow met Nina in her office, and Nina said she thought they should have a party for the kids with a bouncy house. Willow thought it sounded great. They’d been through a lot and there was more to come.

In her office, Alexis told Suzanne and Molly that Laura wanted to give her Drew’s job.

Kristina overheard Cody talking on the phone about his book club and said she had a real page turner for him.

Lulu interrupted Laura at work, and Laura said, it was about Maxie, wasn’t it?

Brook went to Maxie’s house and found Spinelli ruminating. She asked why he seemed so down since Maxie was coming home today, and he said it struck him that he’d been happy living there.

Cody said he was reading Pride and Prejudice, and Kristina gave him a copy of Molly’s manuscript. He said he wasn’t touching it. There was a steep price to pay for violating Molly’s privacy.

Alexis said the governor had only asked Laura for a recommendation, and Suzanne was ready to roll, but Alexis said, not yet.

Willow told Nina that Michael gave her joint custody to avoid the visitation hearing. If he was charged, she had something more important to consider. She’d been contacted by Drew’s political associates, and they wanted her to serve the remainder of his term.

Lulu said she was happy for Maxie and her family, and Laura said, that included Nathan now. Lulu said Maxie was coming back to the love of her life.

Nathan told Dante that forensics was on it, and Dante suggested he go home, but he didn’t want to mess things up.

Spinelli said Maxie was coming home, and Brook asked why he was so upset. He said reality had settled in and he realized how he handled what happened today would change his life. If he didn’t rise to the occasion, he could lose Maxie and his family.

Kristina told Cody that she’d violated Molly’s privacy by sending her manuscript to the publisher. Molly never intended for it to be published. It was only a creative exercise. Cody said Molly saw him as a complete doofus, and Kristina suggested he be less self-involved. Casey was loosely based on him and was a doofus at the beginning, but had a true hero’s journey. He was compelling, cool, and deep. Just read the damn book. He said he’d read it when it was published, but she said it wasn’t going to be published.

Alexis said, Laura just made a recommendation, but Molly said, she wouldn’t have asked if she didn’t think the position would be offered. Alexis was perfect for the job. Suzanne agreed, but Alexis said the more she thought about it, the less she thought she’d do it.

Nina said it was a fantastic idea and a wonderful opportunity, but Willow said she didn’t know anything about politics on the federal level. Nina said she was a quick study. She’d been a teacher and a nurse and a amazing spokesperson for New Tomorrow. And Willow had a secret weapon – Nina.

Lulu told Laura that she’d only developed feelings for Nathan because Maxie wasn’t there. She had the right to reclaim her life. Laura said the feelings Lulu had were real and legitimate, and Lulu said even if they were right for her, they were wrong for everyone else.

Dante said he thought Nathan would want to see Maxie, and Nathan said he did, but it wasn’t about him. The last thing he wanted was to confuse James. Maxie had moved on and had a kid with Spinelli before she even met him. He didn’t want to become an obligation.

Spinelli told Brook that Maxie’s husband was alive and in Port Charles after he’d been dead for seven years, and Brook said he was assuming he’d lose without giving Maxie a say. Didn’t he think she’d want one?

Kristina told Cody that Molly never intended on publishing the book and was turning it down. She’d sent it behind Molly’s back, so Molly never got the opportunity to polish it and make the characters the way she wanted them to be. Her editor thought it was perfect and wouldn’t let her change it now. That’s how much Molly cared about him and his feelings. Cody asked if Molly said that.

Molly said Alexis was a fierce and fearless advocate. Who better to speak truth to power? Suzanne said she could make a real difference, and Molly said they needed more truth tellers. Alexis told her that voters said that, but did they believe it? She didn’t know if she could compromise her values. Molly suggested she look at compromise as for the greater good. Look at how she handled Willow and Drew in service of Scout.

Nina told Willow that Drew won the seat because of her. She was the one who had the network and had even introduced him to McConkey, who wouldn’t have given him a second look. She’d made a mistake, but Willow was a different story. Because of her heart, she was more equipped to do good than Drew ever was.

Spinelli said Jason argued that it wasn’t a foregone conclusion, and Brook said Jason was right. He shouldn’t throw in the towel. He said Maxie was the great love of his life, but Brook hadn’t seen Maxie with Nathan. He had, and Maxie was thoroughly in love with him. Nathan was tall, handsome, heroic… She asked how shallow he thought Maxie was.

Nathan said Maxie’s life had changed and he imagined her feelings had too, and Dante asked if he was talking himself into letting her go. Nathan said she had a life with Spinelli that was good and happy, and Dante said, so she shouldn’t have to honor the promises she made before everything changed? Nathan said, for him and Lulu, time stopped, but people moved on. Maxie made a life with someone else, like Dante did with Sam.

Laura said Lulu’s feelings were okay, but Lulu said, then why did she feel guilty? Laura said she was a good person and a good friend, but Lulu said, a good friend visited every week and gave you an impeccable manicure when you couldn’t do it for yourself. She was the type of friend who kissed her best friend’s husband, then tried to make excuses for it being okay to pursue a romantic relationship. Laura said, stop. It was a very complicated situation. Maxie hadn’t even known Nathan was alive and moved on. Lulu said, had she really? She was there and saw up close what Nathan’s death did to Maxie. Now that he was back, why wouldn’t it change everything for her?

Lulu said she suddenly realized her feelings for Nathan were deeper than she thought, and Laura hugged her. She said Lulu had talked about how she felt. Had she talked to Nathan? How did he feel?

Nathan said, if Dante had known Lulu would wake up, would he have given up his life with Sam to be with her? and Dante said he and Lulu weren’t together when she got hurt and Sam died before Lulu woke up. The timing was different and timing mattered. He loved Sam and was committed to her. He’d wanted to spend the rest of his life with her and the kids. Nathan said, of course (🍷). What if Maxie was committed to Spinelli and the life she made with him?

Brook said she wasn’t in Port Charles when Maxie and Nathan were together, but she’d witnessed Maxie and Spinelli become real life partners and build a life. She watched Maxie find her way back to him. When Maxie talked about him, her eyes lit up. She loved telling stories about how smart, funny, and loyal he was, what a wonderful father he was, and how they fit together. Why was he assuming her relationship with Nathan meant more than what they’d created together?

Molly said Alexis managed to get Willow acquitted and navigate the tension and conflict with people she cared about for Scout’s sake. She’d compromised so Scout would be better off. Suzanne said that’s what politics was. The end game was doing the best for her constituents and making compromise worthwhile. Alexis said they had good points, but would she be doing it for the greater good or for her own ego?  

Nina said Drew used his power as a weapon for his personal vendettas, but Willow would use her power to help her constituents. The same ones Drew promised to care for, but ignored. Willow said she didn’t know policy, and Nina said that’s why she’d succeed. People would want to work with her. Drew had almost a year left. It was nothing. If she didn’t like it, she could walk away afterward. If she liked it, it could change the trajectory of her life and empower her in ways she never dreamed.

After reading a little, Cody said Casey was still a doofus, and Kristina said he had the attention span of a four-year-old. She’d cut to the chase. Molly bottled her emotions and writing had been an outlet since she was a kid. She poured her heart out on the page and suddenly wrote a book. It was magical and annoyingly productive, but she’d rather keep it hidden than hurt him. That should tell him how much she cared.

Molly asked how this could be about Alexis’s ego, and Alexis said Drew was a decorated Navy SEAL and wanted to serve his country. He was also a vacuous pit of need that no amount validation could fill, but he wasn’t always like that. Maybe politics corrupted him and turned him into the psycho he was today. Molly said Alexis wasn’t Drew. She had principles and purpose, and a moral compass. Suzanne said she had more faith in Alexis than she had in Drew, and Molly said Alexis didn’t owe anybody anything, but she’d love to see Alexis represent her. Suzanne said her too, but Alexis said it wasn’t just about her. If she took the position, there would be consequences for Scout.

Lulu told Laura that she hadn’t talked to Nathan, but was sure he was thrilled about the reunion. He’d never stopped loving Maxie. Laura said she was sure he’d be thrilled Maxie was awake, but Lulu couldn’t assume to know his feelings. Lulu said she didn’t want to complicate the situation more. She wanted her feelings to go away. She felt most that Maxie deserved her happy ending and so did Nathan. The person she felt bad about was Spinelli.

Spinelli told Brook that he’d choose Maxie 1000 times over, but if circumstances hadn’t ripped Nathan out of her life, what were the odds she’d choose him? Brook said he’d find out, but Maxie got to make the choice. Maybe it was scary for her too. He said if she chose to be with Nathan, he’d be devastated, but he’d support and respect her decision, and Brook said, another reason Maxie loved him. She didn’t settle, she chose him. Let her choose again.

Dante told Nathan that assumption was never a smart thing. Let Maxie set the pace. The kids had their mom back and James would have both parents for the first time. He’ll love that. Nathan said he hoped so. If Maxie wanted to try again, he’d do that. Dante said, because it’s what James wanted? It had to be what Nathan wanted too. Did he?

Cody asked why this was so important, and Kristina said she loved her sister and didn’t think she should pass up the opportunity. Books mattered and she thought Molly’s book could mean something to people. It was a special, lovely story about people taking the time to know someone past the first impression. The world could use more of that and she thought her sister deserved to see her work published. It was just a hobby, but Molly was good, and his opinion mattered. She wanted him to read it, keep an open mind, then decide. He said what if he didn’t love Casey’s hero’s journey? And she said, then her sister was wrong about him. Molly thought he was a hero and this was his chance to prove her right. She left and Cody sat down to read.

Alexis said if she took the position, she’d be a public official. She’d been to prison, been disbarred, and was a recovering alcoholic. It would be brought up in debate, and if it was just her, she’d handle it, but it was all of them. She didn’t think it was fair to impose it on them. Molly said she’d be a model for Scout. She’d be showing her granddaughter how to face challenges head-on, overcome them, and learn how to triumph over adversity. Sometimes people didn’t know who to be or what to do until they were shown. Alexis wondered how Molly got so smart and inspired, and Molly said she learned from the best. What did Alexis want to do? Alexis said she wanted to serve in congress.

Willow said Nina made it sound easy, and Nina said it wouldn’t be, but it would be worth it. And she’d be with Willow every step of the way. They’d do it together. Willow wondered how she’d have time with having the kids part-time, and Nina said, Michael would have them 60% of the time. He’d have to work around her schedule since she’d be serving her country in Washington DC. Willow said, what about Drew? and Nina said she thought it was time to consider long-term care. She’d be doing a wonderful thing, and she was the only person he’d want to serve in his place.

Laura said Lulu thought Maxie would choose Nathan? and Lulu said, Spinelli knew how much Maxie had loved Nathan and thought he’d bow out even though it would shatter him. Laura said, poor Spinelli. He had a beautiful heart. Lulu said she guessed it was good that she and Nathan barely got started. It just didn’t feel that way. They hugged.

Spinelli wondered what happened when Maxie saw Nathan for the first time and was dazzled by his ocean blue eyes, and Brook said, dazzled was a temporary state. She knew in her heart that Spinelli was the one. Spinelli swept Maxie off her feet every day. Spinelli said he did and he would. He would sweep Maxie off her feet, but would need an assist from Brook.  

Dante said Nathan could only speak for himself. What did he want to do? Dante’s phone rang, and he said, thanks for letting him know. He told Nathan that they found a match on one of Michael’s keys. His brother lied. He had the key to Drew’s house.

Thursday:

Dante said Michael told them that he didn’t have the key and he wasn’t stupid, and Nathan said Michael didn’t exactly tell the truth all the time and had been caught in another lie. Dante said he was sorry to say they had to talk to Michael immediately and Nathan was the only one who could do it.

Willow adjusted Drew’s bed and told him Wiley and Amelia were coming over to stay with her. Despite all the obstacles, it was actually happening and both knew he was an obstacle. She hated that it had to be this way, but he hadn’t left her any other choice. She had to do the best for her children. The doorbell rang and she said it must be Alexis who was supervising the drop-off. She’d check on him later.

Ric asked if Michael was okay with the custody arrangement, and Michael said, it could be worse. Wiley wondered when they were leaving, when Michael’s phone rang. Nathan said they needed Michael to come down and answer some questions. It was best if he came now.

Willow said she’d waited so long, and it wouldn’t have been possible without Alexis’s help. She hugged Alexis, who didn’t hug back.

Mac told Georgie and James that they’d done a good job with the sign. No fighting, arguing, name calling, and James wasn’t climbing or breaking speed records. Maxie walked in with Felicia as he said he wanted them safe and sound, and she said, mission accomplished. They hugged.

Dante told Turner that Michael was on his way, and she said it was a smart move to check his keys, but Nathan said Chase had suggested it. Turner said it would determine whether Michael would be charged with attempted murder.

Michael said he had to go to the station and asked Ric to take the kids. Ric wondered what they wanted to question Michael about, and Michael said they’d had a warrant for his keys. They thought he had one for Drew’s house, but he never did. Ric asked, then why were they bringing him in? and Michael said, great question.

Alexis told Willow that she and Ric loathed each other for years and it was hard on Molly. The best thing was for her to put aside er acrimony with Michael. The kids would fare better if they coexisted peacefully. Willow said she’d do her best, and Alexis wondered if she could check on Drew before she brought Scout to see him.

Spinelli came out and said, no. He missed Maxie’s grand entrance. Maxie hugged the kids and said she’d missed them so much. James said she was back and so was his dad. He couldn’t wait for her to see him.

Maxie thanked Brook and Chase for taking care of the kids, and Brook said she was so worried. She’d missed Maxie so much. Maxie said she was back now and never leaving again, and they hugged.

Willow said Drew had a visitor, and Alexis said she hoped he was up for company. He blinked once, and Willow said he blinked once for yes and twice for no. Unfortunately, it was the only way he could communicate. Whatever Alexis thought best for Scout was what they’d do. Elizabeth called, and Willow left. Alexis said she and Drew certainly had issues, but she never wished anything like this would happen to him. (Ha-ha – sure.) It must be horrific. He blinked once.

Ric asked if the kids were ready to go, and Wiley asked if Michael was in trouble, but Ric said, not at all. They just wanted to give him his keys back. Wiley said, the keys Uncle Chase took? (D’oh! Mouths of babes.)

Spinelli thanked Brook for her help picking out his trés chic ensemble, and she said he looked handsome. He said he pulled out all the stops to fight for Maxie, and she said he had this in the bag. Cody came out with James, who wanted to tell Maxie the big news. Cody said, while she was gone, James learned how to jump with Comet. He was always there and James always followed instructions. James said, no negotiating, no begging, no helmet, no riding, and Maxie said she was proud of him. James left to find a video and Cody said he made sure James was safe. Maxie said her son was an adrenaline junkie and it was scary. Her mom said Cody had been there, and not just for riding lessons, but for James’s nightmares too. He said they were family, and she said he’d proven that.

In the interrogation room, Michael said he needed to reschedule since Diane was stuck in court, and Nathan said he could be detained until she was available. Michael asked if he was going to be arrested, when his phone rang. Nathan gave him some privacy, and Michael said, perfect timing. He needed a lawyer. Ric said he’d be there after dropping off the kids, but wanted to give Michael a heads up. He’d tell Michael when he got there, but in the meantime… Michael told him, don’t say anything without a lawyer present. He had the feeling he was walking into a trap, and Ric said he most definitely was, but if they played it right, the PCPD would suffer the consequences, not him.

Spinelli told Maxie that the kids were planning a surprise in the den. Relax while they set it up. He left, and Lulu arrived. Maxie said, you are late, and Lulu said, what else is new? They hugged, and Lulu asked how Maxie was doing. Maxie said it was a little overwhelming, and Lulu said she understood. It was disorienting to find out time didn’t stop for everyone else. Maxie said it would take time to adjust to being normal, and Lulu said Maxie was there for her when she came back and she planned on returning the favor. Maxie said Lulu was such a good friend, when Brook came in.

Michael said, Maxie was coming home and it was too bad Nathan was missing it. Nathan said if Michael wanted to help, answer his questions now, and Michael said he loved Maxie and would do anything for her, except implicate himself.

Turner didn’t get how Michael could be foolish enough to incriminate himself, and Dante agreed Michael wasn’t that sloppy. Turner said, maybe he finally got tripped up by his own arrogance.

Elizabeth brought some cupcakes Aiden made and asked how Willow was holding up. Willow said she was all over the place. She was excited, but scared she’d seem like a stranger. Elizabeth said it might be awkward at first, but they’d re-bond in no time, and Willow said Elizabeth had been a good friend and she’d never forget it. A car pulled in and Willow opened the door. Wiley and Amelia ran to her and she cried, hugging them. She said she’d missed them both so much, and Wiley said they’d missed her too. Ric brought the kids’ bags, and Elizabeth came out. They smiled at each other, and Willow said, it was so hard being away from them. She loved them both. Wiley said they loved her too.

Alexis said Scout missed Drew, but she was taking good care of her. Scout was doing well in school and having a great time with Kristina and Molly. She’d like to bring Scout, but thought she should prepare Scout first since he wouldn’t be able to communicate with her very well. Drew blinked over and over, and Alexis asked if he was trying to tell her something. He blinked once.

The kids were ready in the den, and Maxie left. Lulu said she felt Brook judging her and saw her disapproval. Brook said she didn’t think Lulu should tell Maxie that she and Nathan had feelings for each other unless they’d acted on them, and Lulu said they’d kissed once. Almost twice, but they didn’t. Brook said she was hoping they’d paused at the having feelings floor, but as long as it ended now, she didn’t think Lulu should tell Maxie. It would only hurt her. Lulu was surprised Brook wasn’t going to tell her, but Brook said Maxie needed the support of all her friends, even Lulu.  

Elizabeth said she thought Willow had this, but Willow asked her to stay so it would seem more like a party. Plus, she could use the moral support. Wiley asked if they could save a cupcake for his daddy, and Willow said she thought Michael was coming with them. Wiley said he was, but had to go to the police station. They had his keys. Willow flashed back to putting Drew’s key on Michael’s keychain, and Elizabeth wondered what it could be about, but Willow said she had no idea.

Ric arrived at the station and told Michael that the kids were happily reunited with their mom. Nathan suggested they get started and said, on February 2^nd, they’d asked if Michael had the key to Congressman Cain’s house and he’d said no. Did he stand by his statement? Ric said, don’t answer, and told Nathan, cut to the chase. Nathan said they had a warrant for Michael’s keys to see if he had access to Drew’s house and he had a ky that did, but Michael said that was impossible. It must be a mistake.

Maxie said she loved the slide show, and Georgie said they wanted to catch her up on what she’d missed. James wondered when his dad was getting there, but Felicia said Nathan was stuck at work.

Mac said he was glad Cody was able to make it, but thought he’d bring Molly, and Cody said he would have, but things hadn’t been great between them. Mac asked, what happened? and Cody said it wasn’t important. He didn’t want to drag the mood down. Mac said if Cody wanted to talk, he was there.

Chase said they had to go, and Maxie thanked them. Bailey Lou loved spending time with them. Chase said the feeling was mutual, and Maxie said Bailey Lou was lucky to have them in her life.  

Alexis said she was sorry. She knew Drew was trying to tell her something, but she didn’t understand. He was blinking three times, and she didn’t know what he meant. She thought she was agitating him and wanted to get Willow, but he blinked twice. She said she was going to leave. She’d tell Scout that he loved her and was thinking about her, and she’d bring Scout to see him soon.

Back at the Quartermaines’, Chase said, that was a good time, and Brook said she loved Maxie and all the kids were happy. He said he guessed they wouldn’t be babysitting much anymore, and she said he’d miss having a little one around, huh? He said he wasn’t trying to pressure her, since he knew she wasn’t ready to adopt, and she said she loved that he was supportive, but she’d been giving it a lot of thought. They should do it. Let’s start our family. They kissed.

Michael said he’d never had a key to Drew’s, and Ric asked for a private moment with his client. Nathan said it would be better if Michael told the truth, and Ric said, Michael had no key, but Nathan said, it was in his possession. Ric said he wasn’t getting into a legal debate with Nathan. He motioned to Turner through the window and said that was her cue. Turner told Nathan that she’d take it from here, and Nathan left. He told Dante, sorry, but Dante said he did fine. Go see Maxie and tell her that he said hi and was happy that she was home.

In the den alone, Lulu looked at the kids’ Valentine cards to Maxie and flashed back to almost kissing Nathan.

Spinelli told Maxie about his new trick for getting Bailey Lou down, and Maxie said it was impressive. She thanked him for keeping the family together while she was gone, and he said he’d had a lot of help. She said, at the end of the day, he was the glue. When she left, she’d had three kids, and when she woke up she had three kids. That she still had James was most impressive. He said, they made it work, but nothing was the same without her. Things may not go back to the way they were, but she shouldn’t rush to figure things out. He knew it was complicated, but the most important thing was that she was back. Was there anything he could do for her? She said today had been a lot and she probably needed alone time. Let everyone enjoy themselves. She was going to take a walk, clear her head, and get some fresh air. Tell everyone she loved them. She left.

Turner said she strongly suggested Michael cooperate. They had enough to charge him. Ric laughed and said they had nothing, and she said it was the third lie they’d caught Michael telling – his alibi, being on Congressman Cain’s street the night of the shooting, and now he lied about not having a key to Drew’s house. Ric said they had no proof. They could prove the key was on Michael’s keyring, but that didn’t prove Michael put it there. Much less that he used it to get into Drew’s house. They had no chain of evidence. It was pure speculation. He was asking for them to allow his client to leave immediately.

Willow gave the kids Christmas presents that she’d saved, when Alexis came back and Willow stepped aside with her. Alexis asked how the drop-off was, and Willow said, Michael wasn’t there. How was Drew? Alexis said she told him about Scout, but he seemed agitated. It was like he wanted to communicate something, but she couldn’t figure out what it was.

Elizabeth said the kids were so happy with Willow, and Willow said it confirmed he knew in his heart. Everything she’d done to reach this point was worth it. Elizabeth said she wanted Willow to have more moments like this, and Willow asked her to keep an eye on the kids while she checked on Drew.

Turner said, if Michael didn’t put the key on the keyring, then who did? and Ric said there were currently many more people living under the same roof as Michael. Turner asked if he was implying someone from Michael’s own family was trying to frame him, but Ric said he wasn’t implying anything. He was talking about one person in particular. An eyewitness recently saw someone handle Mihcael’s keys who had no reason to. Michael said, Willow? but Ric said, one of the PCPD’s finest – Officer Harrison Chase.

In the nook, Brook thanked Alexis for coming on such short notice, and Chase said they’d come to her last year about the adoption process. Alexis said they’d put it on hold, and Brook said, if she was still willing to represent them, they’d like to look into adopting a child. Alexis said it was a big step. Congratulations. She may have a big commitment coming up, but she’d be delighted to help. How soon did they want to start? Brook said, immediately.

Will allow said Alexis told her that Drew was trying to communicate with her. She knew he was trying to tell Alexis what she’s been up to. Sorry. She couldn’t let him do that. She put a syringe full of the drug into his IV tube.

Georgie said, the party was a huge success. It was great having their mom back home. Spinelli said he wholeheartedly concurred, and James asked if he thought their mom liked the party, and Spinelli said, of course (🍷). James said, then why did she leave? and Georgie said, maybe it was too much. Spinelli said, she loved it, but sometimes when you were full of joy, you needed alone time to process. All she needed from them right now was the promise that when she came back, they’d all be waiting.

At the cemetery, Nathan brushed the snow from his own grave. Maxie came in the gate and said, Nathan? He stood up and said, Maxie? They soap looked at each other.

🫔 Friday’s Enchilada…

Lulu is rushing out when she finds a photo of Luke. She says, hi, dad.

In her office, Laura tells Elizabeth that it’s nice to see her. She had no idea Elizabeth was stopping by. Elizabeth says she knows Laura is really busy, but she wants to share some good news. Aiden finally passed his driver’s test. Laura says, thank God. Good for him and good for Elizabeth. Her days being a chauffeur are over. Elizabeth says, that’s true. Now Aiden is in full savings mode and begging her to take him car shopping because he’s obsessed with finding the right one. Laura says she didn’t realize he was that into cars, and Elizabeth says, it’s all he talks about these days. Laura says, that’s really interesting, and Elizabeth says she knows, right? She has no idea who he gets that from. Laura says she does. His grandfather, Luke.

Sonny goes to his old kitchen to visit the moss bowl🎍and finds Carly, who asks if everything is all right with Donna. He says he just dropped Donna off at school. He knocked at the front door, and he guesses she didn’t hear. She asks if everything is okay, and he says Donna told him that she left lunchbox foyer while she was putting on her coat. He said he’d get it and bring it to her. Carly says, Donna’s lunch isn’t for a couple of hours. Does he want to have a cup of coffee with her? He says, Corinthos coffee? and she says, if she had anything else, her whole system would shut down. He says he guesses he’ll take a cup. He sees a poker chip and asks where it came from, and she says, from Donna. She found it. She hopes he isn’t teaching Donna to gamble. He says, Donna isn’t old enough to count cards, but when she is, he will, and Carly says, that’s not funny. He says he found it in a box when he was moving to the new house and gave it to Donna, and she says, take it home with him. Donna will either cover it in glitter or learn to play Texas Hold ‘Em and she doesn’t need either headache. He says he’s got to tell her… It reminds him of… She says, Luke, and he says, Luke.

Lulu goes to the nook where Tracy is having tea, and Tracy asks if she can make… Lulu runs to her and hugs her, and Tracy asks, what’s wrong? She’ll take care of it. She’ll fix it. She’ll hire someone to fix it. Consider it fixed. Lulu says, nothing is wrong. Can’t a stepdaughter need a hug from her stepmonster? Tracy says, of course (🍷), but this is not an ordinary occurrence, and Lulu says she came across a picture of her dad. She shows Tracy, who says, can she? Tracy takes the photo and says, Lulu never had a chance to grieve her father, did she? Lulu shakes her head, and Tracy says, well, it’s important to do. So they’re going to honor her dad. Lulu hugs her again.

Laura tells her assistant to cancel her 4 pm. She has a couple of errands she needs to take care of out of the office. And one more thing. Please remind her to get a birthday gift early. Her grandson is saving up for a car. Her assistant says, knowing teenage boys, he probably wants a convertible, and Laura says, probably.

At All Saints, Lulu lights s candle and sits with Tracy, who holds her hand. Lulu says, it’s so quiet, and Tracy says, it sure is. Lulu says, her dad always told her that he was surprised he didn’t burst into flames when he walked in, and Tracy says, however, a watering hole on the other hand… Lulu says, welcomed him with open arms. This isn’t working. You were right. Tracy says, about what? and Lulu says, this isn’t her dad. Let’s go. Lulu leaves, and on her way out, Tracy blows out the candle. She looks up and says, I know. I know.

Sonny flashes back to seeing Luke on a patio and Luke saying he’s out of there. Sonny asks what he thinks he’s doing, and Luke says, this is where his family lives. His sister, his wife, and son. Sonny says, calm down. Don’t go crazy on him. Does he want to give the neighbors a show? Luke says, that’s fair. As he understands, they’ve got business to do, but they do not do business here – ever. You do not come to my house. You do not speak to my friends. And under no circumstances do you ever go near my family. Understand? Carly asks if Sonny is taking a trip down Memory Lane, and Sonny says, it’s hard not to. Luke spent a lot of time on the Haunted Star. When he first met Luke, he would never have guessed they’d end up where they did. Luke was more than a friend. He was Sonny’s brother. Carly says, he was so good to her mother, and Sonny says, when he wasn’t driving Bobbie crazy. She says, Luke thought she hung the moon, while she… He says, not so much, and she says, not so much. She flashes back to telling Luke that she doesn’t care about ELQ, and he says he does. So turn everything over to him and he’ll take care of everything, and she can wipe her hands of the whole deal. She asks why she’d do that, and he says, because they’re family, calling her Caroline. She says, since when? and he says, since she was born. How about a little Spencer solidarity?

Lulu tells Tracy that church was the last place her dad would ever be. He didn’t even get married in one. Tracy asks what she suggests. They go to Atlantic City? Vegas? What? Lulu says, find some random casino, since it was where Tracy and her dad got hitched… the first time. Tracy says, hitched is a nice way of putting it, and Lulu says her dad tricked Tracy into marrying him when she was drunk beyond belief, so she thinks hitched is pretty generous. Tracy says, there they have the beginning of a complicated, tumultuous… beautiful and oh so real… She flashes back to Luke saying, good morning, beautiful. How do you like your coffee? She says, no, and he says, welcome to our honeymoon, you wildcat. She says, no amount of alcohol in the world could ever make her marry him, and he says, consider the evidence. He shows her his wedding ring and the certificate, and she says, ugh. He says, we have to stay married until death do us part. Tracy remembers smashing a raw egg on Luke’s head, and him saying, oh, Spunky. She tells Lulu, forget the casino. She has a better idea. She takes Lulu’s hand and pulls her along.

Carly says she’s got to get to Bobbie’s, and Sonny says he’ll bring Donna her lunchbox. She thanks him for taking care of Donna, and he says, yeah. She thanks him for talking to her about Luke. It was nice. He says, yeah, it was, and she leaves. He picks up the poker chip, puts it in his coat pocket, and leaves.  

At the Brown Dog, no one is around, and Lulu says she told Tracy that it was too early, but Tracy says, nonsense. The door was open, so somebody has to be here. A janitor comes out, and Tracy says, told you. He says, they’re closed, and Lulu says, see? Tracy says, actually, they’re here to celebrate somebody dear to them, somebody they loved and lost. The man says he’s sorry to hear that, and Tracy says, thanks. He says, but they can’t stay. Come back at 5 when they open.

Tracy counts out $500 into the janitor’s hand, and he says, it’s a steep price for a remembrance, but Tracy says, it’s worth every penny. He tells them to promise not to let anybody else in and don’t do damage. Tracy asks if they look like the types to trash a bar, and he says, her (meaning Lulu), no, but you, definitely. Tracy laughs and Lulu says she’ll make sure Tracy behaves. The janitor leaves, and Lulu says, now what? Tracy says, now we toast, and Lulu wonders what they should drink. Tracy says, the better question is, what was his drink? and Lulu goes behind the bar and gets out two bottles.

Sitting in All Saints, Laura says, what a life we led. Us together and apart. She flashes back to holding a baby and Luke asking what she thinks of Lulu. Laura says, Lulu? That’s her alter ego, her secret identity. He says, Lulu and Lucy Johnson are his favorite identities. That way she can be named after her mother and grandmother. She says, Leslie Lulu, and a young Lucky says, how about just Lu? Leslie Lu. Larua says she loves it, and Luke says him too. In the present, Laura says, no one could ever accuse them of being boring. They burned too brightly for that. As she speaks, we flash back through their life together. She says, even when they built their family, it never stopped being an adventure. It’s because of you, my love. Because you were a force of nature. You didn’t just walk on this earth, you changed it. You changed me. I see you in the kids of course (🍷), in their fire and in their stubbornness and in their refusal to live life small. But there’s more than that. She actually sees glimpses of him every day of her life, in every brave choice she makes, whenever she stands her ground, when she really feels like she wants to turn and run. She thinks that’s why it’s so hard to accept that he’s gone. It just feels wrong. Even saying it sounds like a lie. She knows he’s not here on earth with them anymore, but he never left her. Never once. She feels his presence when life gets too heavy and she feels like she can’t go one more step. It’s his voice she hears, calling her angel, reminding her of who she is. And then somehow, she finds the strength and does go on because what they had was never really over for her. It just transformed because their hearts are bonded together beyond time, beyond loss, beyond this lifetime. Nothing can change that. Nothing. Thank you for the dance. Thank you for the adventure and thank you for the love of a lifetime.

Tracy says she heard Lulu’s father’s drink of choice was scotch, but Lulu says she thought it was rum. Tracy says, actually she thinks his favorite drink was whatever you’ve got, and Lulu says, well, rum and scotch are both available. Tracy says, so how about a little bit each – in separate glasses please. Lulu says, thank God, and Tracy says, her father was the textbook definition of a renegade. Lulu says, no one was going to tell him who to be or what to do, and Tracy says, Lord knows she tried. She flashes back to Luke being in the hospital, and he says, she’s pretty damn mad at somebody. She says, at him for treating life with such callous disregard. She’s furious at him that he refuses to put her, his children, or anybody else ahead of his infantile insistence on living life on his terms. Why for God’s sake? He says, she’s supposed to know him better than anybody. So he had a couple heart attacks… All right, three. So what is he supposed to do, roll up in a ball and not be him? Tracy and Lulu clink glasses, and Lulu says, wow, that is… wow. Switch drinks. They take a sip and Lulu says she’s not sure which is worse. Tracy laughs and says she’s not sure this is the best way to honor Lulu’s father if he had a drinking problem, and Lulu says, don’t tell him that. Tracy says, too late. Her father chased his demons and even caught up with a few. Just not the one who liked to drink with him. Lulu says, but the spark in his eye came back, and Tracy says, her father would not, could not be kept down.

Laura goes to Bobbie’s, and Carly asks if she can give her some coffee. Laura says, oh, please. Great. Carly says, already been day, huh? and Laura says, and then some. It’s nice to see her. Carly says, it’s nice to see Laura. Is everything okay? Laura says, for some reason, she’s been thinking an awful lot about Luke today and doesn’t know why, and Carly says, that’s funny. She and Sonny were just talking about him earlier. Laura says, really? Maybe there’s something in the air. Carly wonders if there’s an anniversary or birthday they missed, but Laura says she doesn’t think so. Then again, they didn’t need an occasion to miss someone. Carly says, no, they certainly don’t.  

Sonny comes into the Brown Dog, and Lulu asks what he’s doing here. He says he was going to ask them the same thing. He saw the car out front and the bar is closed. He thought they might be having car trouble. Lulu says, no car trouble, but he’s right. The bar is closed. Tracy says, Lulu felt that she’d never really grieved Luke, so they’re doing it here today by celebrating, and Sonny says, that’s nice. He doesn’t want to interrupt. He’ll let them go. Lulu says, wait. He loved her dad too. He says he still does, and she suggests he join them. He sits down.  

Laura tells Carly, it’s delicious. So fresh. She thanks Carly for keeping the place going, and Carly says she does it for her mom. This place was so important to her. Laura says, and Luke. She leaves and outside, she flashes back to being with Luke in the kitchen at Bobbie’s. She says she loves him and wants to be his wife. She’s still happy. Please face her. He turns and she says, he still loves her. She can see it in his eyes. Laura’s phone chimes and it’s a text from Lulu: Where R U?  

Elizabeth looks at her phone and smiles. She asks Nurse Emma if everything is okay around here, and Emma says, it’s shockingly quiet around here. Elizabeth says, excellent. She’s going to take off a few minutes early. There’s someplace she needs to be. As she waits for the elevator, she looks at her phone.

Sonny says, Lulu’s dad gave Tracy a run for her money – literally – and Tracy says he doesn’t have to look so amused by it. He says, it definitely worked out in the end, and she says, yeah, but in the beginning… Lulu says, okay, yes. It got off to a rocky start, but her dad ended up falling in love. Tracy says, hopelessly, and Sonny says, a couple so wrong, it turned out so right. Lulu asks if they can talk about how much Luke got away with, and Sonny says, the list is so long. He blew up the Haunted Star. Tracy says, that man never answered for a single con, a single disguise, because he was so damn charming. Sounds like somebody else they know. Sonny asks if she just called him charming, and she says, no. They laugh, and Lulu says, hearing their stories, she misses him less. Sonny says he’s got a million of them, when Laura comes in. She says, maybe, but nobody has more than her. This was a wonderful choice. She thinks Lulu’s dad would feel right at home here. She sits down.

Carly leaves Bobbie’s and outside, she looks at the sign. She flashes back to asking if Luke is calling her a liar. He says, no. He’s calling her a Spencer, through and through. She came out of the womb ready to rumble. She doesn’t suffer fakes or fools and he appreciates that. She says he thinks he knows her so well, and Luke says, she knows him and knows if some arrogant cop and his lovestruck girlfriend got one of his kids thrown in the slammer, he’d wait years if he had to roll over broken glass and hot tar to get revenge. Does that sound familiar? In the present, she looks at the sign and digs around in her bag for something. She takes out the poker chip.

Lulu says her father told her nothing ventured, nothing gained when it came to two things – cards and love, and Tracy says, leave it to him to link cards and love. Laura says she doesn’t know about that. She thinks there’s a lot of luck involved with both. Lulu says, to love, and they clink glasses. Laura flashes back to her and Luke’s first wedding, and Luke says, I, Lucas Lorenza Spencer, take thee Laura Webber Baldwin, to be my wedded wife. To have and hold from this day forward. For better, for worse; for richer, for poorer; in sickness and in health. TO love and to cherish till death do us part. Carly comes in and says, of all the random places to meet. This is an interesting group. What’s going on? Lulu says she never got a chance to mourn her father, so she’s doing it tonight. She thought Carly would want to be a part of it. Laura says she’s sure this is why they were all thinking about Luke today, and Carly says she thinks Laura is right. She asks why Sonny gave back the poker chip, and he says he didn’t. She says, he must have. She found it in her purse when she was leaving Bobbie’s. He says, whoever put it there, it wasn’t him, when Elizabeth comes in and says, hi, everybody. Lulu says, she made it, and Elizabeth says, Lulu told her they were celebrating Luke and she wants in. Tracy says, pull up a chair. Scotch or rum? Elizabeth asks if those are the only options, but Lulu says, no, and she sits down.

Sonny says, in some cultures people believe you die twice. Once when you take your last breath and then when your name is mentioned for the last time. Tracy asks if it matters if your actual name is used or would jackass suffice? Then you could live on forever. Laura says she guesses they all mourn in their own ways. Everyone’s rituals are different. Carly says, they all have them in their own way, and Sonny says he’s seen people celebrate with lanterns they put out to sea in remembrance. Lulu says she loves that. It sounds beautiful.

The group stands at the pier with their lanterns, and Laura says sometimes we act like we say one final goodbye and that’s it. And sometimes, in some situations, it is, but with Lulu’s dad, it’s a little but more like, see you later. Sometimes just hearing a certain tone in someone’s voice or hearing a song by one of his favorite artists or sometimes she catches a scent, and it smells like one of his shirts, like he’s right there, standing in the room with her. Sonny says, may Luke be joined with his beloved Haunted Star and may he always roll sevens. He puts his lantern in the water, and Tracy passes out to-go cups and says, Luke’s favorite. Laura says, to Luke, and they all toast, to Luke. Laura says, this just feels right, and Lulu thanks Tracy and tells her that she loves her. Tracy says she loves Lulu too, and Lulu sees a light. She watches as Luke leaves for the last time, turning to look at her and smiling. She says, see you later, dad, and we see the lanterns in the water.

Alone, Sonny flashes back to Luke giving him a gun. Sonny says, it’s a thing of beauty, and Luke says he wants Sonny to have it, but Sonny says, Luke can’t give it to him. It’s his gun. Luke says he just did, and Sonny says, but he can’t let Luke go wherever he’s going. He’s unarmed. Luke says he’s not exactly defenseless, and Sonny says, fast talking can only get him so far. Luke says, that gun belongs in the life they both chose. He’s walking away from that life. He has to find something else, something different, while there’s still time. Sonny raises his cup.

Back home, Elizabeth finds a muffin that Aiden has left for her and flashes back to telling Luke that she baked him some brownies. He says, her specialty, and she says, he remembered. She bets she can make him laugh, and he says, that would be quite a feat. Go for it. She opens her coat and says, ta-da! revealing a silly outfit. He says he likes the socks. He knows she wouldn’t join a cult… She’s working the GH Christmas bash. She asks if he wants to be her date, and he says, that’s about the sweetest offer he’s had this millennium. In the present, she picks up the car magazine underneath the muffin plate and reads.

Laura’s assistant asks how everything went, and Laura says, it was an interesting day. Her assistant says, productive? and Laura says, yes, very, and special. Her assistant says, all was quiet here, so she ran out and got Laura’s grandson a card. It’s on her desk. Laura thanks her and she leaves. Laura sits at her desk and looks at the card. It has a car on the front and says, Happy Birthday – Hope it’s a great ride! She flashes back to being in Luke’s car in disguise, and hearing sirens. Luke pulls over and tells her to focus now. Keep relaxed and breathe. Breathe. She cries and remembers dancing with him. He says he wants her to know that when he looks at her now, he doesn’t see the 18-year-old girl anymore. He sees a woman and she’s magnificent. He’ll always be proud she’s his wife. She says she’ll always be proud he’s her husband. And if she’s as magnificent as he says, it’s because she spent the first half of her life with him. He kisses her hand.

Carly stacks menus, and flashes back to telling Luke that if he thinks relationship advice is going to give him another month of free rent, he’s crazy. Luke says they agreed that his stay there would be open-ended and fully comped and she knows it. Get her head out of her shapely butt, because she knows bullets and love don’t mix. She says she’s going to take her chances. She’s going to Sonny’s party. He says, no Johnny? No escort? She says, Michael wants her there and she cares enough about her family to make an appearance. No more room service and she’s cutting off his spa. He says he doesn’t care about the spa. They’re family and whether she believes it or not, he doesn’t want to see her hurt.  

Tracy sips tea and looks at a framed photograph of Lila. She flashes back to Luke saying they know he’s nobody’s idea of a great catch, but he’s better with her, so much better. They’re a perfect match. They work, damn it, so here he is before her, deeply flawed, offering his broken body, battered heart, and this. He shows her a ring and says, please wear it again. In the present, she cries and says she’d do it all again.

Lulu puts the picture she found in a frame on the mantel, and flashes back to Luke saying he’s confident that whatever life throws at her, she’s smart and strong enough to handle it on her own. Come on. She’s a Spencer and she always be his one and only baby girl. He loves her. She takes the poker chip out of her pocket and thanks him for giving her his luck and his love. She kisses her fingertips, puts the chip by the photo, and touches his face.  

On Monday, Spinelli tells Lulu that it’s not a fight he’s willing to undertake; Wiley tells Willow that he doesn’t like it there; Ric tells Alexis that he has news about Drew’s attempted murder case; and Michael punches Chase in the face. As we’d all like to.

🧼 All the Soap News Fit To Print…

Tribute to a true icon.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospital-preview-special-tribute-episode-for-luke-spencer-and-anthony-geary/

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospital-alexa-havins-on-lulu-mourning-luke-in-bittersweet-anthony-geary-tribute-episode-excl/

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospital-maurice-benard-remembers-anthony-geary-sonny-previews-luke-tribute-show-excl/

Another kudo to Baby Glinda!

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospital-actress-joins-pixars-toy-story-franchise-in-starring-role/

When will people learn to differentiate between a character and the actor? Throwing apples? Really?

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospital-star-cameron-mathison-says-drew-is-not-a-good-human-defends-willows-revenge/

I had no idea Turner and Sidwell were married IRL. They look amazing, and I have to admit, if I saw them on the street, I’d turn to look, and I don’t say that often.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/photos/general-hospital-stars-and-their-real-life-partners-a-valentines-day-spotlight/

💉 A Dose Of Reality…

Below Deck Down Under

The crew was finally able to shed the Salt Lake City women, but not before more shrieking and arguing. At least they left a sizable tip – $35K – which was more than deserved just for having to listen to all the screaming and yelling.  Sous chef Alesia broke up and made up with Ben, but ultimately decided she was not cut out for the galley and returned to being a stew. Luckily, when the new stew arrived, she was copacetic to being the new sous chef. And oh yeah, it was Ellie from Below Deck Mediterranean.

Below Deck Down Under Season 4 Episode 3 Recap: A New Arrival Changes Everything

Summer House

Kyle had a hissy fit and ran off, and Carl was sent to put him back together. Ho-hum. Another summer at the beach. While there was background relationship finagling, the main focus was on watching the deterioration of Kyle and Amanda’s marriage. Amanda was tired of Kyle behaving like a single twenty-year-old, while Kyle thought she was stifling his money-making skills. She had to explain to him like he was a toddler how it wasn’t the DJ’ing that was the problem. It was the excessive drinking and the DMs she was getting from women saying he was cheating. He gave her a non-apology apology, and by the end, nothing was any further along than it was when they started.

Summer House Season 10 Episode 3 Recap: Was Ciara the One for Jesse?

Vanderpump Rules

I didn’t pay attention to a lot of this because it was the usual who’s zooming who. What I did catch was Audrey’s stand-up act where she roasted her co-worker/castmates. When she got to Angelica, she was nothing but a mean girl squared, causing Angelica to leave in tears. I’m no fan of Angelica’s, but I felt sorry for her. Natalie might have thought Audrey killed it, but all she killed for me was any respect.

Vanderpump Rules Season 12 Episode 11 Recap: She’s Just Not That Into You 

Southern Charm

Ugh. Salley. I don’t even know what to say about this woman. She is so insecure and obvious and must have all the attention from all the boys men in the group. I’m surprised she hasn’t spontaneously combusted over her jealousy. Two minutes ago, she was catching feelings for Craig and now she hates him. For whatever reason, Charley remains friends with her and is trying to keep the details of her relationship with Craig to herself. Salley isn’t having it, but she will have a helping of Austen, who loves the attention. Austen, however, has made it clear he’s not loving Salley that way out of respect for Audrey. The group went to Mexico courtesy of Shep, and during dinner, he suggested they make New Year’s resolutions for the person sitting next to them. Venita said Austen should stand up for himself more, which Whitner interpreted to be smack talking Craig. Craig told Venita that she didn’t exist in his world and to f*** off. By the way, Shep put the trip together in hopes of them finding inner peace. Fat chance.

Southern Charm Season 11 Episode 12 Recap: Night of The Iguana

Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills

This week, Denise made an appearance, and admitted what a d-bag Aaron is. He’d assaulted her several times. Disappointment all around. We also found out Erika got shoved around during a post-Tom relationship. More disappointment, but she got out fast, so good. Erika asked Amanda about the cult she’d been in, but we’d all might as well just read the article. The only enlightening thing was that Amanda said it was a religious thing, but she gave very few details. Amanda felt confused since she’d been told to be forthcoming about her opinions, yet got slammed for them. Um… Maybe she should consider her condescending delivery. On the upside, Rachel said she’d danced more in the Hamptons than she had in years. Hot Girl Summer in progress.

Real Housewives of Beverly Hills Season 15 Episode 10 Recap: Erika Reveals a Secret to Sutton and Denise Richards

The Valley: Persian Style

Golnessa started a new jewelry business, Valley Girl Diamonds, just to bug Sky. Since Mercedeh was working, Tommy was supposed to pick up Shams at school and was a half hour late, even though he only had one job. He dropped off ice for the open house, and she tried to get him to stay and maybe talk to Reza, but nothing doing. At that point, she was reaching the end of the road with this nightmare from New York. Mauricio white gloved Mercedeh’s open house and said her staging had no warmth, but she had still done a good job.

The Valley: Persian Style Episode 8 Recap: It All Falls Down

Random Reality Items

This was my first guess. Hint: Do not put foreign objects in your body.

Brandi Glanville Finally Reveals Cause of Facial Parasite

Coming in April. I’ll wait and see. They’re always good to start before it degenerates into drunken brawls at a dinner parties.

Real Housewives of Rhode Island Preview: Never Have I Ever…

Now on Netflix and my short list.

Being Gordon Ramsay: Netflix Show Gets Huge Reactions

👀 Last Weekend’s Watch…

Never Blink. Amazon Prime. First off, this movie makes you want to blink as soon as they start talking about it. A group of scientists has discovered another dimension that happens, well, in the blink of an eye. Gruesome AF, it’s an interesting premise, kind of like Nightmare on Elm Street combined with Strangeland. The action was good, the monsters were creepy enough, and I didn’t hate it. However, for a bunch of ahead-of-their-time scientists, their computers download like they’re on dial-up.

‘Never Blink’ Trailer Reveals A Terrifying New Universe of Sci-Fi Suspense

Your Daily Horror Digest for July 31, 2025

The Long Walk. HBO/MAX. In a totalitarian, impoverished, post-apocalyptic world similar to our own, a lottery is held and 50 males are chosen to make the walk. The rules are simple. Keep walking at 3 MPH or die until one contestant is left standing. Hey, at least you get three warnings before meeting your doom. The winner gets an insane amount of money and one wish. Unlike The Running Man (Stephen King is having a banner year), it’s less the excitement of the journey itself, and more about character development and emotion. Contestants become close, only to watch each other die. Mark Hamill shines as the draconian Mayor, who encourages the walkers along, but doesn’t hesitate to eliminate them. I would have chosen quite a different wish from the winner, but it was still a satisfying ending and well worth watching.

https://dailytarheel.com/article/lifestyle-the-long-walk-review-20251003

Knight of the Seven Kingdoms. HBO/Max. Dunk is a wannabe knight who teams up with a boy named Egg when he can’t seem to get rid of him. Kind of like a Game of Thrones buddy movie, the series is about Dunk’s journey and the obstacles he and Egg meet along the way. While I only just started watching, and would have rather seen beyond The Wall with Jon Snow, it’s a nice treat in the meantime.

https://www.rogerebert.com/streaming/a-knight-of-the-seven-kingdoms-game-of-thrones-spinoff-hbo-tv-review-2026

I’m also reading Maurice Benard’s book, Nothing General About It, and loving it. He’s open and honest about his upbringing, struggles with mental illness, and his love for the woman who has stood by him. I appreciate a celebrity biography, and this book gives me an extra layer of enjoyment since there’s so much about him working on General Hospital, which it turns out is the workplace anyone would be blessed to have.

Review: Nothing General About It by Maurice Benard

🐾 Astonishing Achievements In Animaling…

🐕 Hopefully, he wasn’t working for the government.

https://people.com/meet-nazgul-dog-who-crashed-2026-winter-olympics-race-11910145

🐺 Once extinct, they’re now all growed up.

https://people.com/deextinct-dire-wolves-hunting-together-as-a-pack-11908890

🐩 A surprising friendship.

https://people.com/dog-forms-2-month-friendship-with-wild-seal-in-viral-tiktok-exclusive-11906273

🌊🐶 To retirement and beyond.

https://people.com/romeo-manatee-is-officially-the-oldest-manatee-ever-recorded-11908666

https://people.com/25-year-old-dog-spends-golden-years-helping-seniors-11905995

🦜 Quotes of the Week

Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it. – Henry David Thoreau

What I did or said should never be more important than why I did it or said it. – Andrea Kelly

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

If exhausted from severe and long-continued thought, he had to touch the earth again to renew his strength. When this weariness set in he would stop thought, and get down with a little dog or kitten to recover. – William Herndon, Abraham Lincoln‘s business partner

If you fight for your limitations, you may just get to keep them. –  Les Brown

A champion is someone who gets up when he can’t. – Jack Dempsey (Apparently, I’m a champion every morning.)

No one should be ashamed to admit they are wrong, which is but saying, in other words, that they are wiser today than they were yesterday. – Alexander Pope

It’s literally petty in the best way. – Reza Farahan, The Valley: Persian Style

☃️ Up To Snow Good…

Until next time, stay safe; stay not bare beating or dry begging; and stay remembering that assumption is never a good thing.