What I Watched Today
(Weekday bites, Friday’s whole GH enchilada & media minutiae)
General Hospital
🥢 Weekday Bites…
Monday:
Chase brought Brad and Britt into the station for their dine and dash. He said they’d made the waiter bring them everything on the menu, then stiffed him. Britt said they left to get the money to pay, and it was all a big misunderstanding.
Tracy went to the stables, and Cody asked what was wrong. She said she caught a thief. Perhaps Outback would like to bring her glove back.
Kristina trooped into Alexis’s house along with Molly, Danny, and Jason. She said they’d brought Christmas to her because she’d said she had no time with the trial.
Nina met Ava at the MetroCourt, and asked Ava why she was there.
At a nearby table, Jordan said Drew told her the charges had been dropped against Curtis and the trial with Willow was proceeding. How did he pull that off?
Portia got a text from Trina, and told Isaiah that Trina was the one thing she couldn’t risk losing, but knew she might.
Trina thanked Gio for helping her bring in her tree, and he said he’d rather be there than where he had to go next.
Lulu thanked Laura and Sonny for coming. Dante was trying to make peace with Rocco. It was their first big family occasion, and she was counting on them to make sure Dante and Gio didn’t come to blows.
Jason said the holidays were important and should be spent with family, and Alexis agreed. She said, it’s what Sam would have wanted, and she had a three-way hug with Molly and Kristina.
Ava said she didn’t want to lose Nina’s friendship, but Nina said Ava had outed her to Portia. Ava said she’d vouched for Nina and told Portia to trust her, then Nina made her a suspect in Drew’s shooting. Portia had a right to be warned and if it had been Nina, she would have warned her too.
Curtis said new evidence had been discovered that strengthened the case against Willow, and Jordan said Turner chose the strongest case. He said he appreciated her support. He knew Trina hadn’t made it easy.
Portia said Trina texted her and she’d gotten to thinking that if the baby was Isaiah’s, she didn’t know how Trina would handle it. Isaiah said her marriage was over and she and Curtis had agreed to move on, but she said they weren’t divorced yet. Trina was already unhappy about Curtis and Jordan, and if she was pregnant with Isaiah’s child, the only way Trina would see it was that she was betraying Trina’s father – again.
Emma dropped off Trina’s Christmas gift and said she thought Gio was going to Lulu’s tonight. What happened?
Sonny told Laura that Gio wanted a relationship with his brother, and Laura said Rocco had been through so much, but she thought the way he refused to blame Gio and took responsibility for his own choices was admirable. She hoped Gio’s father saw that for the important step it was. Lulu said, wrangling the kids was one thing, but the thing that worried her most was wrangling Dante. Dante came in.
Danny asked if Alexis had seen Scout, and she said it was the upside of representing Willow. She hoped that Drew saw it too and her hard work paid off. Kristina asked where Cody was, and Molly said he was probably busy. She hadn’t seen him since Thanksgiving and wasn’t expecting to see him now. Jason said he was at the Brown Dog when Molly walked in as Britt was kissing Cody.
Brad said he wanted a lawyer, and Britt said her too. Didn’t they get a phone call? Chase put her phone on the table and said he’d be back.
Cody wrested Tracy’s glove from Outback and handed it to her, but she said, on second thought, throw it out. Cody said she could take it out of his wages, and she said she would. He asked if she realized that without Outback’s quick thinking, Ronnie would have signed and Tracy would have lost ownership of the house to Drew. Tracy said her gratitude only extended so far. It was Monica’s house when Outback moved in, but it was all hers now. Cody said she’d find new ways to terrorize him, but he knew she’d never separate him from his Princess Pie, and Tracy smiled.
Nina’s phone rang, but she told Ava that Ric could wait. This couldn’t. She thought Ava, Portia, and Curtis were ignoring the fact that she didn’t turn Portia in. All she did was tell Sonny that Portia might have a motive because her daughter had been charged for attempted murder. She’d made worse compromises to save Willow.
Curtis told Jordan that Trina was Looking for someone to blame and didn’t want it to be him or Portia. She knew they had other problems, and Jordan wasn’t the reason their marriage ended. Jordan said it didn’t matter. Portia was pregnant and Trina was worried how it would affect her mother. Curtis said he’d made it abundantly clear that he was completely supportive and wanted to be present in every area of the baby’s life. They didn’t have to be together for that to happen.
Gio kissed Emma and said he was dragging his feet, but he was headed to Lulu’s. Trina said Gio helped her set up her tree, and Emma told him not to feel like he should go, but Gio said he was definitely going. If Dante was making an effort, so could he.
Dante said he didn’t know Sonny was coming, and Sonny said there was so much tension, the more family, the better. Laura said they were the grandparent buffer, when Rocco and Charlotte came downstairs. Lulu suggested they get to tree trimming, and Laura told Dante that since it was Christmas, they’d called in the big guns. Dante thanked her.
Dante asked if Rocco had heard from the DA about community service, but Rocco said that would happen after the holidays. Dante said if he needed any help, let him know, when Gio came in with a box from Eckerd’s. Lulu thanked him for coming and for bringing the cookies, and Rocco suggested Gio help him bring in more firewood. They went outside, and Sonny stopped Dante from following them.
Britt said no one in her family cared about her, and Brad said it was going to be the grey bar motel. He couldn’t go back to prison. He’d burned too many bridges. She said she had one more person she could call.
As they played backgammon, Tracy said it was lucky she preferred the company of animals to people, and Cody said it was less fun without her there. She said she greatly underestimated the weight of inheriting Monica’s house and all that came with it, and he asked if she’d officially stepped into her role as pack leader. She said she never expected to be responsible for the family, particularly Monica’s children and grandchildren. She had to protect them and keep the family together. He said it was like with him and Molly. Sometimes people saw the best in you and appealed to your better nature. Tracy said, oh?
Jason said Britt had been drunk and he didn’t think Molly saw what she thought she had. Molly said she didn’t want to talk about it, but he said she’d left before Cody broke it up and spent the rest of the night watching the door. Kristina said it sounded like he was waiting for someone, when Jason’s phone rang. He asked what was going on, and Britt said she was so sorry to impose on his evening, but she was in a little trouble and being held at the PCPD. Jason said he was on his way, and told Danny that he had to take care of something. Danny said, do what he needed to, and Jason said he didn’t know how long he’d be. Kristina said they’d make sure Danny got home safe, and Jason left.
Ava said she’d been in the same position as Nina. They were alike and got defensive when they knew they were wrong. Nina said, true, but she didn’t appreciated being blindsided. She understood why Ava did it, and realized there might be no repairing her friendship with Portia, but she missed Ava and hoped she hadn’t lost her.
Jordan told Curtis that it wasn’t about his commitment to the baby. She believed it was about him breaking his commitment to Trina’s mother with her. Curtis said he’d never cheat on his wife, and it killed him to think Trina believed he would. She said, even if Trina knew that, Trina believed her presence was what undermined his marriage. She didn’t know how to get around that.
Isaiah said it wasn’t good for Portia and the baby. The only thing she could control was how she took care of herself and the baby. If she took everyone out of the equation, him included, how did she feel about being pregnant and having a baby? She said she thought it was the most incredible surprise blessing ever. She was so happy about this baby and already in love with this baby. And she was scared. There were so many unknowns, but she just wanted to have a safe, healthy pregnancy and be a good mom. He kissed her hand.
Lulu suggested Dante give Rocco and Gio space. The house was already under supervision. He didn’t have to play porch police and couldn’t control every interaction. If they were lucky, Gio and Rocco would be in each other’s lives a long time. It was up to them as brothers to figure out their relationship and he didn’t want to get in the way of that. Dante agreed.
Outside, Rocco said he was sure Gio had better things to do, but Gio said he wanted to be there. It was important.
Laura told Sonny that they’d do what they had to in order to protect the family. They couldn’t ever allow Sidwell to put any of them in jeopardy. Sonny said they’d play along. He sold his piers and Laura would announce that she was supporting that. She said she knew they were making Sidwell overconfident, but was praying the end would come more quickly than slowly. Sonny said they’d do what they needed to protect the people they loved.
Tracy said, Cody was involved with Molly. She’d missed a lot. Cody told her that just saying her name didn’t mean they were involved. He didn’t even know if he and Molly were talking. She asked what he’d done, and he said, when they got close to doing something, he blew it, and she said, fix it. Despite Molly’s parentage, she had a good head on her shoulders. He said Molly was smart, beautiful, and honest. She had ethics. She asked if that disqualified him from dating her, and he said Molly probably figured it out too. He’d invited her out to a bar on Thanksgiving and she ghosted him. It was probably for the best.
Kristina said she finished Molly’s manuscript and loved it. It was really good. Molly thanked her for reading it and said she needed somewhere to put her creative energy when she saw Cody with Britt. Kristina suggested she cut Cody some slack, and Molly said she wondered why she got worked up. They weren’t dating and never even said they were interested in each other. Danny asked if they wanted a guy’s perspective.
On the phone, Alexis told someone to find the person. She needed them in court tomorrow… Check the hospital. If they find Amy Driscoll, they’ll find the person.
Brad asked if Jason was Britt’s sugar daddy, but Britt said he was helping her get back on her feet. It was nice that someone cared about her welfare. Jason came in and Britt said they’d each thought the other was treating, but had their wires crossed. They left to get the money, and it was a misunderstanding. The restaurant thought they were skipping. Britt asked if he could help, but Jason said he wasn’t bailing Brad out, and left. Brad said if Jason really cared about Britt, he’d care about her friend too.
Kristina asked Danny to share his wisdom, and he said, guys never knew if a girl was interested. They hoped, but never knew. Molly asked, why? and he said they were dumb. They needed things spelled out. Cody probably thought Molly was too good for him. If she liked him, she had to make it obvious. Tell him. Molly said he was right. Guys were dumb, but he was a genius. She grabbed her coat, and Alexis asked where she was going. Molly said she was going to find Cody.
Tracy said Molly wouldn’t be orbiting Cody if she didn’t see something worthwhile. He needed to take a chance and go for it. She won anyway. She got up, but he said they weren’t finished, and she said he just hadn’t seen it yet. He said it had started to snow, and she was wearing riding boots. Allow him to walk her up to the main house. She said, very gentlemanly, took his arm, and they left.
Rocco brought in some wood and told Laura that he had something important to say to her. Everything had been crazy and he’d had no opportunity to apologize. She’d been running in an important race and his actions jeopardized that. He was grateful for her standing by him, and even more grateful that she was still mayor. He thanked her for all her support, and she hugged him and said he was so welcome. Gio and Dante looked at each other.
Emma told Trina that she cared about Gio. The night of the Nurses Ball changed everything. She saw his heart ripped open and wanted to fix it, but knew he had to fix it on his own. Trina said Emma supported him and that meant everything. When your life was unraveling, you told yourself that you wanted to be alone, but the truth was, you needed your people around you. Gio was Emma’s person. Emma said she thought Gio needed to face Dante tonight, but that didn’t mean he had to do it alone, and Trina said Emma couldn’t go empty handed, but she had just the thing.
Nina told Ava that Crimson ran an article about how real friendships added quality to a person’s life. She was thinking that’s what Ava’s friendship did. Ava was the person she confided in and turned to when she needed advice, even when she didn’t take it. Ava said Nina did the same for her. She never felt like Nina was judging and Nina knew what she’d done. She liked having Nina in her corner and Nina better believe she was in hers. Nina wondered what she was going to do about Portia, and Ava said the bridge wasn’t necessarily completely burned. Portia knew Nina’s back was against the wall and she’d do anything to protect her daughter. It could be fixed.
Jordan said she didn’t want to risk Curtis’s relationship with his daughter. Fair or not, Trina saw Portia as the injured party. Her being pregnant and alone amplified everything. Maybe they should call it quits before it went any further.
Isaiah said he was realizing how miraculous it would be for him if this was his baby. It would keep him and Portia in each other’s lives. She deserved to feel supported. He knew things were complicated, but how could he help? Portia said he was doing it. Just being there, saying exactly how he felt, being with her with no judgement. It was more than she could ask for. She snuggled against him.
Brad told Britt that Jason was bad news. He was Michael’s uncle and held a grudge forever. For a professional hitman, he was super judgmental. Britt said, stop it, but he said Jason wasn’t a person she could rely on. He let Britt fall for him, then dropped her for Carly. Now he’s letting her rot because she’s friends with him. Was he really the guy she wanted?
Outside, Gio saw Emma and asked what she was doing there. She said, bearing gifts. What’s Christmas without mistletoe? She might have made him feel like he had to do this alone, but he didn’t. Gio said, thanks, and held up the mistletoe. They kissed.
Laura asked if Charlotte was worried about her dad, but Charlotte said she was sure he was fine. Laura said she was probably right. They’d had clashes, but one thing she never questioned was Valentin’s love for her. She didn’t know why he chose to be a fugitive again, but wherever he was, he’d be happy to know she was surrounded by family and love. She hugged Charlotte and said everything would be okay.
Sonny hugged Rocco, and Dante said Rocco gave a nice apology to his grandma. Rocco thanked him, and Dante held out his hand. Rocco shook hands with him, and Lulu told Laura it was a Christmas miracle.
In the squad room, Chase hung up the phone, and Britt wondered if they really had to stay the night in jail. Brad said it was so gross, when Chase walked in. Britt said, what next? and Chase took their photos. She asked what he was doing, and Brad said he didn’t sign a release. Chase said they were free to go. Their pictures were going up on Café Cherie’s wall. They could never set foot in there again. Britt said, what about the bill? and Chase said it was paid, along with a 40% tip for the waiter they’d stiffed. Britt asked, who paid? and Chase said, Jason Morgan.
Jason went back to Alexis’s house and said what he had to take care of wasn’t serious. He wanted to be there. Alexis said they all wanted to be there, especially Danny, and Jason said he wasn’t missing out on time with Danny the way he had with Monica. Alexis’s phone rang, and she said, any luck?… She knew Amy would come up with the address. Have it delivered as soon as possible. Danny put the star on the tree, and Alexis said the evening was coming together.
Trina put the star on her tree and got on the couch. She looked at a photo of her parents on her phone, pulled a blanket around her, and leaned against the pillow.
Curtis said he wasn’t throwing away what he and Jordan had. Trina was fair-minded and when she saw they’d acted perfectly honorably, she’d come around. Jordan said seeing her family changed would hurt, and he said, changed wasn’t easy, but he wanted to be with her. He wasn’t giving her up yet. They kissed.
Portia asked what Isaiah was thinking, and he said he hoped the baby was his. She said, despite everything? and he said, even with the complications. She said she hoped he was the baby’s father too, and they kissed. There was a knock at the door, and Isaiah opened it. A man asked for Portia Robinson, and Portia asked what was happening. He said she’d been served, and she snatched the document from him. She told Isaiah that it was a subpoena. She’d been ordered to appear in court tomorrow at the trail to be a witness for the defense.
Molly went to the stables and called for Cody. She saw Outback and said she came to see his dad who wasn’t there. She hadn’t thought it through. Merry Christmas. She knew Santa would be good to Outback. She’d been such a good girl. She turned around and saw Cody. He asked what she was doing there, and she said looking for him. He asked, why? and she kissed him. She asked if she read it wrong, but he said, no. She just beat him to it. Then he kissed her.
Tuesday:
Ava met Portia in her office and said she’d sounded panicked. Portia said she’d been subpoenaed to testify at Willow’s trial.
Dante wondered why Portia was added as a last-minute witness, and Turner said maybe it had something to do with her husband being a suspect.
Kai told Curtis that Trina had offered to keep him company, and Trina said she found it entertaining, like a real-life crime show. Curtis said it was real life for sure.
Brook asked if Chase was okay, and he said he didn’t realize Dante would be there for his testimony. She told him to choose his words wisely, but he said he’d done it a million times and knew what he was doing.
Loaded down with shopping bags, Laura met Martin at the MetroCourt. She said, every year she told herself that she’d do her shopping early, then she’d be scrambling right around… He said, now? and she told him not to look because she had his gift in there. He said he’d thought all he was getting was a lump of coal.
At a nearby table, Michael told Tracy that lunch was on him, and she said it should be since she perjured herself for him. He asked how long she was going to hold that over his head, and she said as long as Monica held the house over hers. He said, so forever. Relax. Her part was done. She said Alexis had reserved the right to call her back to the stand.
Drew said he hoped Alexis was prepared to mount a rigorous defense, and Willow said she was sure Alexis had it under control. Alexis said if all went as planned, she’d prove the police arrested the wrong person.
Laura said she was angry about how Martin treated Tracy, but he was her brother and she loved him. He said that meant a lot. He hadn’t heard from her since the night of the debate. She said she was sorry, but she’d been incredibly busy with work. She planned to spend more time with him. She and Doc were hosting a Christmas Eve dinner. Would he like to join them? He said he’d be there with bells on.
Michael said he understood Tracy being unsettled, but if Alexis had more questions, she would have asked them then. Tracy said she wasn’t dropping her guard. When was it his turn? He said, not today, and she said she was surprised he didn’t go anyway. He said he was curious, but didn’t want Alexis using him as a pawn again. Tracy said, if anyone could get Willow exonerated, it was Alexis.
Alexis asked Chase to tell the jury about his relationship to the defendant, and he said Willow was his former wife, but they were still close friends. She asked if he was involved in the investigation regarding Drew’s shooting, and he said he was. She asked if he was satisfied with the conclusion, and he said he wasn’t. She asked if he voiced his concerns, and he said he did. She wondered if anything came of it, but he said, no. So he began his own investigation. He believed, and still did, that Willow was innocent. She said, based on? and he said, Willow’s character. She wasn’t capable of shooting anyone. Turner objected, saying it called for opinion, and Judge Sullivan said, sustained. Chase said he also believed there was a lack of evidence against Willow, while there was evidence against other suspects.
Ava said the subpoena showed Portia would be testifying for the defense. Maybe they’d ask about Drew’s injuries, since she operated on him. Portia said she doubted it because they waited until the last minute, and Ava said, don’t panic, but Portia said, how could she not? Thanks to Nina, Alexis knew she had a motive. Ava said Alexis didn’t know what the motive was. It was just a rumor Nina passed to Sonny. There was no proof. Portia said they could twist things, and Ava said, as someone with a lot of experience, take her advice. If Alexis asked her anything about Drew, say as little as humanly possible. Portia said, what if Alexis made it seem like she shot Drew? and Ava said Portia wasn’t the person on trial. Willow was.
Turner objected and said Willow had been charged. Unnamed suspects weren’t on trial. Alexis said she was going to explore a third-party culprit, and the judge said, overruled, but it wasn’t free reign to go on a fishing expedition. Alexis asked how many suspects had been considered, and Chase said, initially, eight. Seven had strong circumstantial evidence and two had questionable alibis. Alexis said, but they zeroed in on Willow alone, and he said, correct. She asked if they rushed to judgement, but Turner objected stating, opinion. Judge Sullivan said, sustained, and Alexis said she’d rephrase. What was his take on Willow’s arrest? Chase said, it was premature. The other suspects hadn’t been sufficiently investigated, and one was arrested just days ago. Alexis asked, what happened? and he said, the suspect was released. She asked if the evidence had disproved them, but he said, no. She said, but they still pursued Willow Tate? and he said, correct. In his opinion, it was a huge miscarriage of justice.
Turner said, when she’d last checked, the PCPD wasn’t on trial, and the judge told Alexis to get to the point. Alexis said Chase believed Willow was innocent. Was there more? He said he had no concrete proof, but she wasn’t at the scene of the crime and there was nothing to disprove her claim that she was just driving around. There was no chain of evidence as to how the gun ended up in her room. They focused on Willow even though there was a serious lack of hard evidence. Alexis had no further questions, but reserved the right to recall the witness. Turner said, Chase conducted his own investigation because he believed his ex was innocent. Was he able to prove her innocence? Alexis said, vague, and Turner said she’d rephrase. In the course of his findings, did he uncover any definitive piece of evidence that exonerated Willow? Chase said, no, but… She said, the gun was found where? and he said, in the dresser in the room where Willow was staying. She asked if Willow was arrested before or after the discovery, and he said, after. She said it didn’t sound like a rush to judgement, and Alexis objected. Turner said, withdrawn. No further questions. Chase stepped down, and Dante said Chase needed to meet him at the station – now.
Tracy thanked Michael for lunch and said she had some unfinished business with Martin. Michael said, play nice, but she said, not without a court order, and even then… She went over to Martin’s table and said she apologized for the interruption. She’d had no chance to congratulate Laura on her reelection. She understood Laura also convinced Sonny to sell his piers. Laura said she thought it was what was best for everyone, and Tracy said Jenz Sidwell wouldn’t be her first choice, but beggars couldn’t be choosers. Laura asked, how was Europe? and Tracy said, restful and restorative. Just what she needed after the trauma suffered at the hands of Laura’s brother. Laura said she’d been mortified and was so sorry, but Tracy said Laura had nothing to apologize for. Laura said she thought that was Martin’s cue. He owed Tracy a thank you and an apology.
Portia thanked Ava for coming with her. She hadn’t heard back from Trina and wanted to give her a heads up in case things went badly. Ava told her, positive thoughts for Trina. They went in and Alexis called Portia to the stand.
Martin said he was sorry. He was sorry he’d forged Monica’s will. It wasn’t nice. Tracy said it was despicable. He betrayed her sister-in-law and subverted her final wishes. He said, Tracy was right. He was wrong. Monica deserved better. Tracy said what about the rest of her family? They were neck deep in grief and he made it worse. He said if he could go back, he would, and Tracy said imagine if Monica hadn’t stashed away the original copy. If he was really sorry, he’d stand up to that despicable boss of his.
Drew asked why Alexis was putting Portia on the stand, and Alexis said it would help Willow’s case. She asked Portia to state her occupation, and Portia said, Co-Chief of Staff at General Hospital. Alexis asked if she had access to the database of patient’s test results, and Portia said she did. Alexis asked if she’d ever altered or falsified results, and Portia said, yes, once. She altered the results of Heather Webber’s tests. She was a dangerous criminal who had recently been on a killing spree, and she was afraid if Heather was released, she’d try to hurt her daughter – again. She altered the results of Heather’s blood panel, hoping to keep her in prison where she belonged. Alexis said it was perfectly understandable. She was a mother trying to protect her child. Did anyone find out? Portia said, a couple of people, and Alexis asked if the congressman was one. Portia said, yes, and Alexis asked what he did with the information. Portia said he blackmailed her with it.
Brook found Michael and said Chase gave his testimony. In trying to saved Willow, he ended up risking his entire career.
Dante asked Chase, what the hell was that? and Chase flashed back to Alexis telling him it was an enormous risk, and him saying that Willow’s freedom was worth it. He said he took an oath to tell the truth, and Dante said he undermined the department and threw the trial in jeopardy. Chase said, Willow shouldn’t be on trial to begin with, but Dante said it wasn’t his call to make. Like it wasn’t his call to investigate on the side. He’d tarnished the badge and didn’t deserve to wear it. Chase said if he didn’t, neither did Dante.
Alexis asked what Drew coerced Portia to do, and Portia said her husband was the head of Aurora Media and Drew wanted her to persuade him to pull the negative coverage. Alexis asked if she gave into Drew’s demands, and Portia said she had to. He said he’d expose her secret. She’d lose her job and career and could go to prison. Alexis said it must have made her angry. Was it fair to say she hated Drew? Portia said, yep, and Alexis said, enough to shoot him? Turner objected, leading the witness, and Portia said she didn’t shoot Drew. Judge Sullivan suggested Alexis change direction, and Alexis asked if Portia was every at the Quartermaine estate. Portia said, yes, to visit Monica for advice a couple of times. Alexis asked if she knew the last time she visited, and Portia said, September, before Monica died. Alexis asked if she knew where Edward Quartermaine’s gun collection was kept, but Portia said, no. Alexis asked where she was on September 2nd from 9:45 to 10:30 on the night Drew was shot, and Portia said she didn’t shoot him. Alexis said, that wasn’t the question, and Portia asked why it mattered. The judge told her that if she didn’t comply, she could be held in contempt, and Portia said, please don’t. Alexis wouldn’t get the answer she was looking for. Alexis reminded Portia that she was under oath. Where was she? Portia said she was at the MetroCourt in a hotel room, and Alexis asked if she had a receipt or confirmation. Portia said, no, and Alexis asked, why not? Portia said it wasn’t in her name, and Alexis asked whose name it was under. Portia cried and said she was with Dr. Isaiah Gannon.
Portia said her marriage was over. She and Curtis had decided to end things, and she’d been leaning on Dr. Gannon for comfort. Alexis said she didn’t need to explain. She had no further questions. Portia told Trina that she was so sorry. She never wanted Trina to find out. Trina ran out of the courtroom.
Laura asked why Martin needed to stand up to Drew, and Tracy said Drew managed to steal her family’s heirlooms and she’d asked Martin to help recover them. Martin said he tried, but Drew wasn’t having it, and Tracy said she’d press charges. Martin said he’d lived up to his part of the bargain and confessed to Laura, but Tracy said it was Ned’s bargain. Laura suggested he talk sense into Drew, but Martin said he didn’t think Drew would change his mind. Laura said he could try, and Tracy looked at him. He said he supposed he could, and Tracy said there was no time like the present. He said, anything to get her off his back, and left.
Brook told Michael that Chase said the PCPD botched the investigation and overlooked suspects. He didn’t name names, but it didn’t go over well with Dante. They left for the station before she could talk to them. Michael said, Chase made it clear to anyone who would listen that Willow was innocent, and Brook said Chase was now in serious trouble.
Chase told Dante that it was clear Willow hadn’t been given a fair shake, and Dante said, by him? Chase said, and the department. Dante used his position as Acting Commissioner to steer the investigation away from his brother when so many signs pointed to him. Michael loathed Drew and had easier access to the gun. He was at Elizabeth’s house before it turned up. Dante said Michael had an alibi, and Chase said it was paid for. Dante said Anna had been running the investigation at the beginning. Was she biased? Chase said, no. Once Dante took over he pushed for Willow to stand trial. He thought that Dante had screwed up Michael’s life once before by sending him to prison, and consciously or unconsciously, he wanted to make sure that didn’t happen again.
Turner asked if Portia needed a minute, but Portia said, let’s get this over with. Turner said, to be clear for the jury, the night of September 2nd from 9:45 until 10:30, she was with Dr. Gannon at the MetroCourt, correct? Portia said, yes, and Turner said the prosecution was satisfied, but could subpoena Dr. Gannon. Alexis said it wasn’t necessary, and Turner said she had no further questions. Portia stepped down and looked at Curtis.
In the hallway, Trina asked how her mom could betray her dad like this, and Kai said he knew it was a huge shock, but Trina said, that’s what she does. She lies. Kai asked what he could do, and Trina said she needed to go home. Portia came out and said she was so sorry, but Trina said she didn’t want a lame apology. Portia said Trina had the right to be angry, but she never meant to hurt Trina or her father. Curtis said, stop. She didn’t get to do this. He asked Kai to take Trina home, and they left. He told Portia that he just wanted to know one thing. Was this baby his?
Alexis said the defense was ready, but Judge Sullivan said it was late, and the holidays were upon them. He was calling a recess. Alexis said there was time to call another witness, but he said it was his courtroom, and he’d decided he’d heard enough. They were adjourned until after the new year. Happy holidays. See her in two weeks. Drew said, that was a disaster.
Dante said Chase was way out of line, and Chase said he shouldn’t have brought up the Michael thing. In Dante’s role as Commissioner, he’d been determined to lay the shooting at Willow’s feet. Curtis meeting with Selina didn’t even give him pause. Dante said they arrested Curtis, but Chase said, then he cut Curtis loose. Dante said the camera footage showed Willow near Drew’s house when she said she wasn’t. The footage was so damning, it was lucky the file was corrupted. Chase told him, just say it, and Dante asked Chase to tell him that he wasn’t the one who got rid of it.
Turner said someone would be in touch with Drew regarding the extortion accusation. In the meantime, happy holidays. She left, and Drew said it was Alexis’s fault. Now he was looking at an extortion charge. Alexis said he shouldn’t have blackmailed Portia, and he said he couldn’t believe she went after an innocent woman. She said she cast reasonable doubt, and he said, now she ruined Portia’s life. She said she felt horrible, but don’t act like he gave a damn, and Willow said she believed if they tried pointing the finger… Drew told Alexis to forget spending time over the holidays with Scout. It was a hard no. Willow looked shocked.
Laura said she hoped Tracy understood that she loved her brother, but didn’t approve of what Martin had done to her. Tracy said she could tell, and Laura said she was kind of shocked that he was capable of something so spiteful. Tracy said, maybe she wasn’t as familiar with Martin as she thought, and Laura wondered how it got so ugly. Tracy said she didn’t remember, but hoped Martin finally learned his lesson.
Brook said Chase risked everything for Willow, and Michael said Chase was sticking up for someone he believed in. He would be surprised if Chase hadn’t. Brook said it was one of the reasons she’d married him, his principles. He fought for justice, but picked the wrong fight. Michael said, don’t let that stop her from loving him. Don’t let Willow destroy their happiness. It was too late for him, but not for her.
Chase said he told Dante already that he hadn’t tampered with the footage, and Dante said he wasn’t the only one interested in Chase’s rogue investigation. Chase said show him where he did something wrong, and Dante said it wasn’t for him to decide, but Chase was suspended. He needed Chase’s badge and gun now. Chase put them on the table and walked out.
In the car, Kai said, talk to him, and Trina said she was so afraid her dad was cheating on her mom. It never occurred to her it was the other way around. She knew her mom and Dr. Gannon were friends, but didn’t know… Oh my God. What if the baby wasn’t her dad’s? What if it was Dr. Gannon’s?
Portia said she didn’t know if the baby was Curtis’s or Isaiah’s, and Curtis said now he knew why she didn’t want to tell him. She said she wanted to take the paternity test after her first trimester. She wanted to be safe. He asked, what if it was Dr. Gannon’s? and she said she would have told the truth. He wondered why he believed her when all she did was lie and keep secrets. It was the exact reason why they weren’t together. She said she tried to handle it as best she could, and he said at least she told the truth on the stand, but Trina… He didn’t know how she could come back from this. Portia said Trina was a grown woman. She needed to explain it to her. He said she needed to leave Trina alone. If Trina wanted to hear from her, she’d reach out. Portia said she was really sorry about this, and he said, that he believed. He just didn’t give a damn. He walked out, and she cried. Ava sat next to Portia and put her arm around her.
Reporters were waiting for Drew and Willow. They asked if it was true that Drew blackmailed the General Hospital Co-Chief of Staff. How often did he dictate media coverage? Drew said, no comment, and a reporter asked if Willow knew about her husband’s extortion. Drew said, no comment, but the reporter said the question was for his wife, and Drew hustled Willow out.
On the phone, Alexis told Diane, it couldn’t have gone worse, when a man came in. He asked if she was Alexis Davis, and she said she’d call Diane back. She said, yeah, that was her, and he handed her an envelope. She said, what’s this? but he said it was above his pay grade. Have a good day. He left and she opened the envelope, taking out a typewritten page: Dear Miss Davis, I thought you might find the following information useful. The night of Congressman Cain’s shooting, Michael was at Drew’s house and Tracy Quartermaine saw him there. Merry Christmas.
Wednesday:
Brook and Chase approached Maxie’s, and Chase said, after his suspension, Nathan and Mac might not be happy to see him, but it was for Maxie’s kids. Unless she thought they should leave. She said, absolutely not. He was where she wanted him to be, by her side. He said, always, and they kissed. Mac opened the door.
Elizabeth stopped by Portia’s office to see if she needed anything, and Portia said if she’d been fired instead of suspended, she might take Elizabeth up on her offer. She hoped to be back soon, but she was kidding herself, wasn’t she?
Curtis said he hoped Marshall wasn’t in trouble for missing the Christmas tour dates, but Marshall said his family needed him, so here he was. How was Curtis holding up? Curtis said, not so great. He already loved Portia’s baby, but the thought that it might not be his… Marshall said he was so sorry. He couldn’t imagine what Curtis was feeling. Curtis said, anger and frustration. He couldn’t believe Portia lied to the family again. Trina was furious and he was hoping seeing Marshall would make her feel better. Marshall said he’d do his best.
Sonny said he hoped everyone was hungry, since he’d made his mother’s pasta. He’d been cooking for several days. He wanted to stick to his mother’s traditions. She loved the holidays. Rocco’s father was bringing something by. There was a knock at the door, and Sonny said, speak of the devil. He let Dante in, and Dante said he’d gotten lucky.
Britt nearly ran into Lucas on the stairs at the hospital and said, just when she thought working on Christmas Eve couldn’t get worse. He said, in World War I, the soldiers called a truce. Maybe they could follow their lead and call a cease fire. She said they could go back to hating each other tomorrow, and Britt said she had a family party to go to, but was called in, and he said he volunteered so another doctor could spend the night with their kids. She said, of course (🍷) he did.
Jack gave Carly a gift and said he’d trust her not to open it until tomorrow. She said, maybe, but he’d already gotten her a necklace, and she felt guilty enough leaving him alone on Christmas. He said she had nothing to feel guilty about, but she said she was a mother. There was always something to feel guilty about. She didn’t want Donna to miss out. He said he didn’t want Donna to miss out either. As long as he had her every other day, he could do Christmas without her.
Valentin put a candy cane on the tree in the attic, when Donna opened to door. She saw the tree and said, Santa? She ran out.
Elizabeth said they’d given Britt another chance, and Portia said, as a ward clerk. Elizabeth said she hoped they’d give Portia one too. She was an amazing doctor. Portia said her career might be the only chance she had at salvaging anything, and Elizabeth said she was sorry everything went public. Portia said the last thing she wanted was to hurt the hospital’s reputation, and Elizabeth said she did what she thought was right. Portia said she’d never regret protecting her daughter. But it led to Drew’s blackmailing her and gave her a motive. Then Alexis forced her to tell the world that she had an affair.
Stella hugged Marshall and said she’d been cooking all day, and it gave her comfort. After hearing about Portia, she needed some. Curtis said, so did Trina. Christmastime was for family and he wanted to make sure Trina knew she had one. He didn’t want to make her feel worse, and needed them to help him stay focused on what he had to do. There was a knock at the door, and Trina came in with Kai. There were hugs all around.
Brook said she was glad Georgie went with Spinelli to see Maxie, and Felicia said Georgie wanted to see her. She was glad they were together. Brook said she was glad they were too, and glad Emma was there for Gio.
Chase told Mac that he knew things were tense, but Mac said, not tonight. It was about the kids.
James said he was getting his own saddle for Christmas. His mom said if you wrote a letter to Santa, he’d bring you what you wanted. Felicia said she’d set up the laptop so they could Facetime with Sasha and Uncle Robert, and James said Daisy was lucky. It was already Christmas in Australia. They left to make the call, and Nathan asked Cody if the saddle would be on time. Cody said it was guaranteed to be delivered by midnight tonight, and Nathan said it was hard enough without letting James down. The doorbell rang, and Nina and Obrecht came in. Cody’s phone dinged and he said, no, no, no. The package can’t be delayed.
Lulu asked Charlotte what things she did with her father on Christmas, and Charlotte said it depended on where they were. When they were in Finland, he took her to a reindeer farm. They had a Santa and it was like being in a fairytale. Lulu said, amazing, and Charlotte said, it could be lonely, knowing Lulu was sick. When Rocco told her that she’d woken up, she was happy. She’d missed Lulu. Lulu said now she missed her dad, and Charlotte said she did, but she loved Lulu and Rocco and was happy spending Christmas with them. They hugged and Lulu said her too.
Gio asked Rocco if it was still tense between him and his dad, and Rocco said he wasn’t ready to forgive Dante for being unfair to Gio. Gio said he appreciated Rocco having his back, but didn’t think Rocco should be mad at his dad on his account. Dante was really trying and maybe Rocco should give him a break. Dante told Sonny that he didn’t want to mess up Christmas and thought he’d go to work, but Sonny said that would be the worst thing. Take it from someone who had been through the same experience, the hard part was having to let Rocco be upset. Dante had to prove to Rocco that he was here for him no matter what.
Carly said when she’d visited Jack in Pentenville, she had no idea they’d end up where they were, and Jack said it surprised him too. Back then, she was just a bright spot on dark days. Having her in his life changed him in ways he never anticipated. Donna came in and said, Santa left a Christmas tree in the attic. Come see.
Britt told Lucas that her brother invited her, her mother, and Nina to spend Christmas with James, but it was probably best that she was there. Things were better between her and her mother, but a long way from great. Without her there, her mother could relax and enjoy the holidays with Nathan and James. What was he doing? Lucas said he and Marco had plans later tonight, and she said, no second thoughts about moving into Windymere? He said, not a one.
Nina said she wished Britt was there, but Obrecht said Britt had to work. She needed the money. But her beloved son was there and it was the definition of a Christmas miracle. Cody told Nathan that the gift arrived at the Port Charles Distribution Center, but the drivers were overloaded, so he was going to get it himself. James asked if Nathan and Cody were mad at him because he didn’t go see his mom with Georgie and Spinelli.
Obrecht told Nina to find some holiday spirit. She was bringing the party down. Nina said, after the trial, she couldn’t stop thinking about what Portia went through because of her.
Portia told Elizabeth that she couldn’t stop thinking about the look on Trina’s face when she admitted what she’d done. Trina wouldn’t even talk to her afterward. Elizabeth said it was raw and painful right now. Give it a few days. Trina wasn’t going anywhere and they’d always be connected. They were family. Portia said the baby was part of the family too.
Stella said Trina looked beautiful, and Trina said, thanks, but she wasn’t feeling very Christmasy. She was angry when she found out her mom lied to her about who her father was. After swearing she’d never betray Trina again, here they were… Stella said she was so sorry Trina was going through this, but Trina said her mom didn’t get to ruin her holiday. Stella agreed and asked if Trina wanted some eggnog. Trina said, sounds great.
Rocco said he hated the way things were with him and his dad, but couldn’t forgive him, and Charlotte said no one was asking him to. He could still be mad, but it was Christmas and she realized what she’d give to see her dad. His dad was there and trying hard to fix things. Rocco told her, that’s what Gio said. His dad had always been the kind of person he wanted to be. She suggested instead of focusing on what Dante had done wrong, think about what he’d done right.
Gio told Sonny that he was heading out to the Scorpio party. He wasn’t avoiding Dante. Emma invited him. Sonny said, of course (🍷) he should go. He was proud Gio had been willing to come by. He had a truce with Dante for Rocco’s sake and was a good brother. The best thing that happened was him finding out Gio was his grandson. Gio said Sonny always treated him like family, but it was better now. It was official.
Carly said Donna wasn’t supposed to be in the attic at Christmastime, but Donna said she needed a ribbon for her dad’s present and there was a tree in the attic. Kristina arrived and said she came bearing the goods. She didn’t know Jack would be there. Jack said, on that note, he bid them Merry Christmas. He left, and Carly said she thought Kristina would be at her dad’s, but Kristina said Donna called and asked her to bring the prettiest ribbon ever. Carly said, if Donna asked Kristina to bring the ribbon, why was she in the attic? and Donna said, in case she didn’t like it. Kristina said she had excellent taste. How about that? She handed Donna some ribbon, and Donna said, perfect.
On the phone, Jack asked if they were ready to pull the trigger on Britt Westbourne… Good. Expedite it.
In the attic, Carly told Valentin that he could come out. They were alone. She’d told Donna the attic was off limits, but she should have known. Valentin asked if he needed to find a new hiding place, but she said Donna would be at Sonny’s tonight and after that she wouldn’t come up looking for presents. She thought Santa put up the tree. He said it was his first Christmas without Charlotte and thanked her for letting him stay. He knew she didn’t want him to be there. She said he didn’t give her much choice, but he said, even so. Enjoy the holiday with her family. She said she would and left.
Nathan said James did nothing wrong. Nobody loved Christmas more than James’s mom. She wouldn’t want him to miss Santa and the last thing she’d want was for him to be sad. Cody said she’d want James to have a fun and good Christmas, and Nathan suggested he take James to see her next week. James asked why Cody had his coat on. He wasn’t leaving, was he? Cody said James was stuck with him, and Felicia said dinner was ready. Nathan and James went in to dinner, and Cody said, save me some, ya animals, and got on his phone.
Molly was at the hospital when Cody called. She said, Merry Christmas, but he said, it may not be. She asked, what’s wrong? and he said he needed help for James.
Gio arrived at Sonny’s, along with Kristina who descended on Olivia’s cookies. Sonny asked if Carly was on her way, and Kristina said she had to take care of something first, and Gio said he was glad to see Donna before he left. She asked if he was going to see Emma. Was she his girlfriend? He said, yes, and she told him not to stay up too late. He needed to be in bed asleep for Santa to come. He promised he would, and said he’d see her tomorrow. She asked if he was going to play Christmas carols on the violin, but he said he didn’t have new violin yet. She said maybe Santa would bring it.
Britt showed Lucas a photo of Nathan and Obrecht that she’d received on her phone and said she was right. See how happy her mother was without her. Lucas said she could think that way, but he thought it was nice that Obrecht sent it. Obrecht was thinking about her.
Curtis asked if Trina remembered the year she asked for a desk for her dorm room, and she said, of course (🍷). He said her mother was busy at work, so he ordered it. They were sold out all over, so he went online and was able to find a nearly identical one. Marshall said, it was a good price too, and Curtis said, when the package came it was a little smaller than he’d expected. Trina said he’d accidentally ordered dollhouse furniture, when the doorbell rang. Marshall said they didn’t think it was Portia, did they? and Stella said, she’d better not show her face in this house. Trina opened the door to Jordan.
Trina thanked Jordan for coming and said she’d invited Jordan to come for a couple of reasons. Mostly because she wanted to apologize. Jordan said Trina didn’t need to apologize, but Trina said she did. She’d been unfair and blamed Jordan for her parents’ marriage breaking up. She shouldn’t have. She’d been hard on Jordan and was sorry. She hoped Jordan could forgive her. Jordan said there was nothing to forgive, and Trina said she’d basically accused her dad of cheating on her mom and was wrong about all of it. She was sorry. Curtis said it was okay, and Trina said she loved him so much. He hugged her and said he loved her too. Stella said she hoped Jordan was staying for dinner, and Jordan said she’d love to.
Elizabeth told Portia that Aiden was with Lucky. Cameron was spending Christmas with his girlfriend’s family, and Jake was in Spain with friends. Portia was more than welcome to stay the night and have Christmas with her. Portia thanked her and told her that Ava said the same thing, but she thought she needed time alone to think about what she was going to do. Elizabeth said she was a just a phone call away if Portia needed anything. Hang in there. She left, and Portia looked a photo of herself with Trina on her wedding day. She flashed back to Trina saying she didn’t want a lame apology, and cried.
Emma told Felicia that she wished her grandma had called, but she sent a photo. She showed Felicia a photo of Anna (or someone) in a motorcycle helmet, and said what her grandma was doing for the WSB must be big. Cody answered the door to Gio, and Emma said she was glad Gio was there. He said him too, and James said Gio had to open his present. Emma said she hoped he liked it.
Donna said Carly missed Gio, but Carly said she’d see him tomorrow. Donna said he still didn’t have a violin, so he couldn’t play carols, and Kristina suggested they go get some cookies. She and Donna went to the kitchen, and Carly said she couldn’t believe Sonny didn’t get Gio the Stradivarius. Sonny said he and Ned went in together on a violin, but they were waiting for Gio to give a sign that he wanted to play. Carly said, him and Ned? That was a surprise. Sonny said it showed how much they loved their grandson, when Donna asked to open the last window on the chocolate advent calendar. Charlotte looked at her phone and Carly looked at Charlotte.
Portia packed up the stuff in her office, when Isaiah came in. He said he didn’t see her after court. How was she doing? She said, since her entire world fell apart? Not great. He said he was so sorry, but she said she was the one who should be sorry. Their involvement became public, and she knew it’s what he wanted to avoid. He said they didn’t set out to hurt anyone. She made the best choices she could, and this is where they ended up. If he was lucky, this was their baby’s first Christmas, and he was hoping they’d spend it together.
Stella asked who was ready for her pecan pie, and Trina said she needed a few minutes, but Marshall said he’d been ready the whole day. Trina’s phone chimed and she said it was Ava wishing her a Merry Christmas. Kai asked if she thought it was from her mom, and she said, yeah. She was surprised her mom hadn’t bombarded her with calls and texts. He said maybe it was her Christmas gift, and she said she was glad it wasn’t her mom. She didn’t know what to say. He said she got to decide when and if she talked to her mom, and whatever she decided, he’d support her. She said she was glad he was there, and he said him too. They kissed.
Gio unwrapped a didgeridoo, and Emma said she’d asked her parents to send it. Her grandpa gave it to her as a gift. Mac said it was horrific, but Emma said it might be a fun way for Gio to experience music again. Gio said he had no idea how to play it, but Emma said she could teach him. Someone knocked at the door, and Cody let Molly in. He said she was freezing, and she said the parking lot at the Distribution Center had no heat. He said he’d make it up to her, and gave Nathan a thumbs up.
Carly said she forgot the nativity. She found a set she’d had when the kids were young and thought she’d bring it. She was going to go back and grab it. She asked Charlotte to come with her. It was fragile, so maybe Charlotte could hold it on her lap on the way back. They left, and Donna said it was time to open a present. Sonny said she could only open one, and she said she wanted him to open the one from her instead.
Lucas asked, how’s Portia? and Elizabeth said she guessed okay. Lucas said he felt bad. Having your personal life on display for the whole world was awful. Elizabeth said she felt bad that Portia was spending Christmas alone, and he said they’d both been through a similar hell, but with the help of friends, they were still standing. She said she hoped Portia got through it too, when Britt joined them. Lucas said her phone alarm went off, and she looked at her phone and said, oh my God. Her medical license was reinstated. Elizabeth said now Portia and Terry would be her bosses, and Lucas said he guessed his letter did the trick. Britt said she didn’t care how it happened. She was going to be a doctor again. Merry Christmas to me.
Trina said the party needed music and asked if Marshall would play carols on his clarinet. He said only if she sang along, and Trina sang Silent Night over the next few scenes.
As they left the elevator, Isaiah took Portia’s hand and they left together. Elizabeth smiled at Lucas, and Britt sent a text to Obrecht. In the background, Jack looked at Britt.
Obrecht showed Britt’s text to Nathan, and James hung up Maxie’s stocking.
Brook and Chase hugged, and Gio smiled at Brook.
Rocco took the last cookie, broke it in half, and shared it with Dante. Donna sat on Sonny’s lap.
Carly brought Charlotte to the attic and opened the door. Valentin came out and he and Charlotte hugged. Valentin told Carly, thank you.
🫔 Friday’s Three-Quarters Of an Enchilada…
No word-for-word this week because, holidays.
Tracy sits down, when Leo and Wiley come in. She says, the house where peace and quiet go to die, and Wiley asks if she wants to see what they found in the stable. Leo opens an empty box and says, it must have gotten out. Tracy says, Merry Christmas to me.
Molly and Kristina go to Alexis’s, and Molly says, they were only able to spend Christmas morning with her. Kristina says, they figured they’d spend the day after Christmas with her, have take-out, and watch Christmas movies. Alexis says she can’t. If she doesn’t get her work done, somebody else will suffer.
On the phone, Drew says, Christmas was yesterday. Find a media strategy to spin this so he doesn’t look like an extortionist… Maybe him being a hard-working congressman who cares about his constituents. He pays Martin for legal strategy. What was the buzz on the Hill? (Has anyone even seen Drew do his job ever?)
Scout tells Willow that she doesn’t know if she’ll get to give her family their presents, and Willow hugs her. Drew watches.
Lucas says he doesn’t know what Boxing Day is, and wonders if he’s dressed appropriately, but Marco says he looks great. Boxing Day makes the British expat in his dad happy. He thanks Lucas for putting up with it, but Lucas says, if it’s tradition, he’s in, since Marco has taken part in his. Marco says, trashy reality TV while drinking white wine with Ava? and Lucas says if Marco wants red wine, just say so. He’s just happy they’re together. They hug and Pascal skulks around.
Laura talks to Doc about what she’s serving and what she has to do and tells him that she needs Cointreau. He says, no matter what’s going on, she’s able to put her problems aside and make sure her family has a wonderful holiday. She says, it’s call compartmentalizing, but it only works to a point. It’s taking everything in her not to descend on Windymere with a pitchfork. He says, they have a pitchfork? and she says she can get one, but she won’t let her rage against Sidwell spoil the holiday. Doc hugs her and says she’s amazing. There’s a knock at the door, and Laura opens it to Lulu, Rocco, and Charlotte. Lulu says, Laura will never guess who she found, and Sonny says, ho-ho-ho. Am I late?
Michael looks under the sofa, and Wiley says, over here. Cody tells Tracy that he’s sorry. They got excited when they found a frog in the stable. Tracy says, why frogs? and he says, they’re cool. Normally, they hibernate, but Outback must have sniffed it out. She says, and she was worried that Outback wasn’t a good guard dog. Cody says, she’d subdue them with her cuteness. Wiley and Leo are invested in a rescue frog, so it wouldn’t be a big issue if they kept it? Tracy says, every other living thing on this planet resides in this house, and he says, it will bunk with him. Michael says he found it, and Brook leads the children with their frog to the kitchen to bake cookies.
Sonny tells Laura that he’s not staying long. He stopped by to see everybody, but he has to be someplace across town. It’s nice to see the kids. Rocco is in great spirits. Laura says she’s glad he put the trial and detention center behind him, and Sonny says, because of her. Dalton is gone. It’s over. She asks if he’s saying it was worth it, and he says, absolutely. Rocco deserves to be free and live his life, and it’s up to them to make sure he can.
Sidwell welcomes Lucy and says he’s delighted she could make it. She says she wanted to be there with him, and it gives her a chance to thank him for the Christmas gift. She tosses back her hair to show off her earrings, and wonders how he’d know how she’d look. And more important, how did he know diamonds are her absolute weakness? He says he didn’t know, and it was just a small token of his affection, and she says, if that was his idea of small, keep it coming. Pascal says, the buffet is in the dining room, and Lucy says she’s absolutely starving, but a buffet for two? Ava comes out of the living room and says, there’s more than two tonight. Lucy asks where Ava came from, and Ava says she’s been there. She tells Pascal that she’d love a martini, if it’s not too much trouble, and Pascal says, never.
Tracy says she’ll pay Cody to take the kids to the stable, and he says he’d be happy too, but he’s calling upon a lady. She asks if it would happen to be a certain Assistant District Attorney, and he says, Molly came through for him tonight big time. He hopes he can make it up to her… if she lets him. He didn’t see Tracy, so a happy, merry, belated Christmas. She says she’ll be thankful when the day is over, but it just keeps going on and on and on. It’s her fault. She wanted to see if she could carry on one Lord Larry tradition – Boxing Day. It’s supposed to be a reset after and abundant holiday, but it’s been turned into a holiday bake-a-thon. If only… He says, Monica were here, and she says, yep. Monica loved Christmas and was in charge of it. He says, instead of focusing on Monica not being here, it might be a good time to embrace those who still are.
In the foyer, Ned thanked Olivia. It was the first Christmas without Monica, and she’d been thoughtful, especially to his mother, who didn’t express her grief in a gentle way. She’d been snapping and Olivia bore the brunt of it when all she’d done was treat Tracy with kindness. Olivia says, after all these years of living with Tracy, she truly loves her, and what they both have in common is their love for him.
Molly says, Alexis has been working non-stop on Willow’s trial and asks if she slept. Alexis says, a few hours, and Kristina says, that’s not enough. It’s the holiday. Stop working and spend time with her family and friends. Alexis says she has the opportunity to go over the testimonies and make sure she didn’t miss anything, but Molly says she needs to take her mind off the case. Alexis says she took a gamble with Portia, and it backfired. Now Drew is furious with her. Kristina says, he always is, and Alexis says, that means Scout won’t be hearing from her family at Christmas or at all. If she doesn’t win this case, Drew will take Scout to DC, and none of them will see her again.
On the phone, Drew tells Martin that Portia had no evidence. People lie under oath all the time. Willow tells Scout that she’ll make sure Scout’s family gets their presents, and Scout thanks her. Willow says she knows it’s difficult to be away from the people you love during the holidays. As much as she loves being here with Scout and her dad, she’s missing Wiley and Amelia. Scout must miss her family. Scout says she misses her mom a lot, and Willow says, of course (🍷). Scout says, but it’s different. She knows she can’t see her mom, but she could see her family, if only her dad would let her.
Ava gives Lucas a drink, and he thanks her for the answer to what to do with his hands. She says, it’s a party. Take a breath, sip, relax. He says, parties make him nervous, but it’s important to Marco’s father, so it’s important to Marco, so it’s important to him. It’s the first year since Marco’s mother passed. He’s glad she’s here. Ava says she’s proud of him. It was a brave choice moving into Windymere. It seems to be going well. He says, it has, except for that butler Pascal. Ava says, he makes a good martini, and Lucas asks if Pascal isn’t kind of creepy. Ava looks at Pascal and says, a vaguely creepy vibe. Take advantage of his position as prince consort and tell him to leave. He says, Sidwell thinks he’s invaluable, and she says, take his time. When he feels more like it’s home, he’ll feel better about deciding who comes and who goes.
Sidwell tells Jordan that she looks exquisite, and hopes she doesn’t mind if they talk a little shop. Drew will arrive shortly with his wife Willow. Jordan says, and he was wondering how they get Drew reelected if his wife is convicted of shooting him, and Sidwell says, precisely.
Drew asks, where’s Scout? and Willow says, in her room. What if they didn’t stay at home and took Scout to her grandmother’s for the night? Drew asks if that’s what Scout wants, and Willow says, it’s all she wants. Scout told her. Drew asks why she didn’t tell him, and she says, Scout didn’t want him to think she didn’t love him if she didn’t want to spend Christmas with him. She comforted Scout, but knew she couldn’t promise anything. The decision was up to him. It’s Scout’s second Christmas since she lost her mother and she’s feeling very alone.
Molly says, Drew is isolating Scout, and a third party is a definitive legal strategy. Alexis says she exposed Portia’s private life and added Drew blackmailing her, and she was no closer to proving Willow’s innocence. Kristina says, that’s why she needs to eat Noodle Buddha and watch a movie. Take a break and tomorrow she’ll look at it with fresh eyes. Molly says, even she knows part of trial preparation is resting and recharging. Alexis tried it her way. Why not give theirs a try?
Sonny tells Doc that he guesses Doc has a lot to say about helping Laura with her car trouble, but Doc says, all he has is gratitude. Laura was in an impossible situation. He wishes he’d been here, but he couldn’t be. He was glad Laura was able to call Sonny. Sonny says, Laura was going through a difficult time. He’s just glad Doc is in her corner now. Doc says him too. They’re all in this together and together they sink or swim. Sonny says, they’re going to swim, and they shake hands.
Olivia says, the whole thing opened her eyes to how much she loves her life with Ned. The whole time he was in the hospital, all she could think about was how happy he makes her. She knows she gets busy with the hotel and the family, and sometimes doesn’t see the forest for the trees, but she’s correcting her vision. The doctor called what Ned had a windowmaker, but she’s not a widow. Instead, she’s eternally grateful. He hugs her and says, you and me both. The doorbell rings and Emma and Gio come in. Emma thanks Olivia for letting her tag along, and Olivia says she’s happy to have her. Ned says his mother had gone to great lengths to make Gio feel like one of the family.
Tracy asks if Michael made the phone call, and he says, it will be here. Ned comes in and asks, who will?
Laura thanks Lulu for coming, and says she gets greedy for extra daughter time around the holidays. Lulu says she was looking for Charlotte last year and owes Laura extra time, but Laura says she doesn’t. She’s Charlotte’s mom and had to go. It looks like Charlotte is adjusting. She’s in good spirits and so is Rocco. Lulu says, it’s all Dante and Gio. They’ve been making an effort to get along for Rocco’s sake. Lulu says, it’s nice to see them happy and enjoying themselves. She gave herself a good talking to and decided that no matter what’s happening, she needs to embrace the holidays for the kids’ sake, and her own. Time with family is the most precious kind. Laura says Lulu gave herself a wise talking to, and Lulu says she told herself what she knew Laura would. Laura hugs her and says she loves her.
Lucy says she’s having a wonderful time, and Marco says he’s glad she’s here. She says she was married to Lucas’s father briefly, and Marco says, Lucas mentioned it. She says she bets he did. Lucas is exactly like his father. A beautiful person who Marco can share hardships with and who will bring him joy. She’s so happy for them. It’s wonderful that Marco found him.
Jordan tells Ava, happy holidays, and Ava says, Jordan is in a uniquely uncomfortable position, watching as the Ashford-Robinson family falls apart. She considers Portia a friend, but all she wants to do is support Trina. Jordan says she has no interest in taking sides. Trina is lucky to have Ava. Ava says, as far as she’s concerned, there are no sides.
Drew tells Willow that he made it crystal clear. Alexis could spend time with Scout if she mounted a good legal defense. Her only success so far has been destroying Portia’s personal and professional life and putting an accusation of blackmail against him on record. Her legal tactics failed and put Willow at greater risk. Willow says she’s glad that Drew would go so far to protect her, but it’s not about the case, and he says he already told Alexis that she lost the right to see Scout. If he backs down now, he’ll lose his leverage. Willow says, it’s not about leverage. It’s about his daughter. She’s unhappy right now. Don’t think of it as a concession to Alexis. Think of it as a beautiful gift for Scout and her.
Tracy says it’s good to see Gio and asks if things are looking up with Brook. Gio says, they worked out a few things, but it’s still complicated, and she says, relationships are often more complicated than not… Quartermaine relationships. It was almost 40 years before she realized how much she loved Monica, and she had every reason not to. The doorbell rings, and Ned says he’ll get it. He lets Sonny in, and Sonny says he’s surprised Tracy let him set foot in this house. Ned says, she’s doing whatever it takes for Gio to feel welcome. By the way, it arrived. Sonny says they’ll know when the time is right.
Lucy tells Sidwell that she’s looking forward to their New Year’s Eve plans, when Ava sees a ceramic on his mantal and asks where he got it. He says she has a good eye. He picked it up in Sicily. Ava says she knows an antique dealer that would give him a good price, but he says he won’t part with it. She says, never say never, and Lucy asks why Ava won’t take no for an answer. He’s not interested.
Alexis says, in romances, they take one look across a room and fall in love, and Kristina says, it’s possible to have a deep connection with someone you’ve just met. Alexis asks how long it lasts. It’s a brief infatuation and great sex. Molly says she has a point about first impressions. If you wait for a lightning bolt and love at first sight, you might miss out on a great guy. There’s a knock at the door, and Kristina asks if Alexis is expecting anyone. Alexis says, no, and she’s not getting it. Molly says, it’s probably the delivery guy, and sees Cody through the door window. She flings herself out of sight.
Sonny asks where Wiley’s sister is, and Wiley says, taking a nap. His dad got tickets to the Yankee game, three of them behind home plate. He wants to take Sonny and his dad. Sonny says he’d love that, and Wiley says, him too, and they hug. Michael tells Sonny that the trial is going his way. It has to be over. Sonny tells him not to get ahead of himself. They don’t know the outcome, and it could go either way.
Brook says Tracy went above and beyond. Does she want to have tea in her room or go to the MetroCourt for a stiff drink? She’ll cover for her. Tracy says, Monica always had an open house on Christmas. Now it falls to her to carry on the tradition. Brook says, she’s amazing, and Tracy says, they’ll see how she does in the long run. Another reason to look forward to the holidays.
Leo brings out a case and says, look at what he found. They forgot to give Gio his present.
Lucy says, it’s an impressive figurine. Is it a Greek god? Sidwell says, Roman, when Pascal says, the congressman has arrived. Sidwell excuses himself, and Lucy asks if Ava can’t do business at the gallery. It’s supposed to be a party, not her making a quick buck. Ava says she didn’t mean to make Lucy feel left out. Lucy’s taste leans toward naïve art. Jenz has a very particular palate. But from now on, when they discuss his collection, she’ll make sure Lucy isn’t around. Make no mistake. Jenz is an important client to her and her business, and she has no intention of letting Lucy get in the way.
Sidwell says he’s glad Drew could make it. Where is his lovely wife?
Cody continues to knock and calls, hello. Molly takes down her hair and adjusts what she’s wearing. She opens the door and says, hey. He asks if it’s a bad time, but she says, no. It’s a great time. Come in. He asks if they’re watching football, and Alexis says, an epic romantic disaster. That’s their football. Have an eggroll. Cody says he loves some Noodle Buddha. How was their Christmas? Kristina says, great. They made things festive for the kids, despite Maxie not being around. She thinks for the most part, they succeeded. Alexis suggests Kristina come to the kitchen with her. She wants to get Cody a plate. Kristina asks if he’d like something to drink, and he says, whatever they’re having is great. Alexis and Kristina leave and Molly says, sorry. Cody says, the reason he came over was because he wanted to ask her something. If she has no plans, he was wondering if she wants to ring in the New Year with him. She says she’d love to, and they kiss.
Rocco asks if Charlotte is faking holiday spirit, but she says, it’s real. He asks if she heard from her dad, and she says she saw her dad. Lulu says, dinner is ready, and Laura says Charlotte and Rocco are good with Ace. He’s having a great time. Charlotte says, Ace is cool. Lulu should play with them. It’s lame, but fun. Lulu says she’s good at lame. How do you play?
Olivia asks what Leo is doing with that, and he says he was going to borrow a tie from his dad’s closet and found it. Olivia says, put it back, and Leo says, if it’s not for Gio, who’s it for? Ned says, put it back, and Leo says, it’s a Stradivarius, the best violin in the entire world. Why would Gio not want it? Sonny says they did buy it for Gio, but not necessarily for Christmas. They want to give it to him at the right time, as a present from his grandfathers. Leo says, why wait? and Ned says they’re waiting until Gio feels like playing music again. Leo says, why wouldn’t he want to try it out? and Brook says, he might not be in the mood. Wiley says, Aunt Tracy would like him to play, and Tracy says, I would? Wiley says, she’s been sad and misses Grandma Monica. They all do. Gio says he misses Monica too, and Leo says, maybe a song will make them feel better. What does Gio think?
Gio takes the violin and opens the case. He takes it out and goes to the foyer. Brook goes to the doorway and flashes back to the Nurses Ball when Gio smashed his violin. She touches his arm, then puts her hand on his shoulder. He goes back in and begins to play, O Holy Night, over the next few scenes.
Sidwell says, dinner is in the dining room. Follow him. Marco and Lucas kiss.
Lulu takes a family photo.
While they’re watching the movie, Cody sniffles, and Molly hands him a tissue. There’s a knock at the door and Kristina opens it. She gasps, and Scout runs in. Willow follows, and the Davis girls plus Scout have a four-way hug.
Gio continues to play. When he finishes, Tracy thanks him and says, it was beautiful. They hug.
On Monday, Jordan says she found something that could give Laura what she wants; Marco tells Lucas, there might be another way forward; Sidwell tells Drew, if that changes, he’s on his own; and Turner tells Sonny, there’s never a grey area, but he says, never say never.
🧼 All the Soap News Fit To Print…
Here’s hoping she’s back sooner than later.
Let’s hope it’s not a year later. And what about Robert?
I didn’t hate Nathan’s return, but I’ll be glad when they start focusing more on his Faison connection.
💉 A Dose Of Reality…
Below Deck Mediterranean
Okay, I really didn’t pay a whole lot of attention, since it’s all, who’s zooming who? and I’m not caring. However, when a guest left a stinky surprise in the shower, I had to stop decorating and watch. Who does that???
The rest of the week was filled with holiday movies. It was actually a nice break from watching people scream at each other.
Random Reality Items
So does this mean she lost all that weight for nothing?
Not a whole lot of info, but few things can top Kyle’s confrontation of Kim in the limo back in the early LVP days.
I fully support this.
👀 Last Weekend’s Watch…
Neighborhood Watch. Hulu. I loved this movie. Beautiful acting and a unique story about a mentally challenged man who thinks he saw a kidnapping. He recruits his ex-security guard neighbor to help him solve the crime, and while there’s definitely action, the story is character driven by their relationship. There’s a few laughs as well. A definite hour and a half not wasted.
https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/neighborhood-watch
Some spoilers.
https://culturess.com/neighborhood-watch-is-a-gripping-and-addictive-film-from-start-to-finish
Fanatical: The Catfishing of Tegan and Sarah. Hulu. I was unfamiliar with this musical duo, and even the story, but once again bad actors pull a fast one with the identity theft of Tegan. Not content with just messing with the musician’s life, there was also catfishing with members of the fanbase. Having a horrible fascination with the evils of the internet, this was right up my alley.
https://press.hulu.com/shows/fanatical-the-catfishing-of-tegan-and-sara/
https://tiff.net/events/fanatical-the-catfishing-of-tegan-and-sara
Queens of the Dead. Shudder. George Romero’s daughter Tina directed this fun romp on the queer side of a zombie takeover. Homages run rampant, but it’s also an original, and Tina makes clear from the beginning, it ain’t her daddy’s apocalypse. It’s colorful, gory AF, and even includes a musical number. The torch has been officially passed.
https://www.polygon.com/tina-romero-interview-queens-of-the-dead-zombie-movie-george/
https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/queens-of-the-dead-queer-zombie-movie-review-2025#google_vignette
Fallout. Amazon Prime. I watched the first episode and was thrilled to be back in the world of Lucy, The Ghoul, and New Vegas.
https://www.inverse.com/entertainment/fallout-season-2-review
The Nightmare Before Christmas. Disney+. Yes, it’s old, but it never gets old. This is a true masterpiece of artistry, from the stop-motion animation to the song lyrics. There’s children throwing snowballs instead of throwing heads literally makes me lol. It’s also the best cautionary tale about staying in your lane ever. And of course, there’s Zero. If you’ve never seen it, watch it, and if it’s been a while, watch it again. You can’t help but smile.
https://ew.com/nightmare-before-christmas-cast-side-by-side-with-characters-11864898
🔮 Watch Of the Future…
No definitive answer on a second season yet, but I predict it will be happening.
https://www.inverse.com/entertainment/with-there-be-a-welcome-to-derry-season-2-time-travel-plot
🎄 If You Can’t Let Go Yet…
All the movies. Relive the moment. Or watch the moments you never had.
https://ew.com/best-christmas-movies-all-time-11867795
https://ew.com/best-hallmark-christmas-movies-ranked-11869176
https://ew.com/greatest-kids-christmas-movies-on-netflix-8765002
https://ew.com/best-christmas-movies-streaming-now-11867280
https://ew.com/best-classic-christmas-movies-11867102
https://ew.com/best-christmas-horror-movies-11869602
https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/best-christmas-movies
Not a movie, but keeping with the theme.
https://www.spirithalloween.com/blog/fun-facts-about-christmas/
☃️ Walkin’ In a Pet Wonderland…
🐶 Not Pilaf, but still adorable.
https://people.com/sofia-vergara-poses-for-holiday-photos-alongside-her-pet-chihuahua-amore-11876156
🐈 I love stories like this. Never give up hope.
https://people.com/cat-missing-for-2-years-reappears-during-holidays-in-christmas-miracle-11876390
🐕 Max is only second to Zero in my book.
https://people.com/how-the-grinch-s-dog-max-is-selected-at-universal-studios-exclusive-11874352
🐭 Because, why not?
Heri za Kwanzaa!
🤶 Quotes of the Week
What the new year brings to you will depend a great deal on what you bring to the new year. – Vern McLellan
The thing about Christmas is, it’s never just about the one you’re celebrating now, it holds the memories of all the other Christmases, and the ones you shared them with. – Aunt Stella (Vernee Wilson), General Hospital
I suppose there are two views about everything, said Mark. *** Eh? Two views? There are a dozen views about everything until you know the answer. Then there’s never more than one. – C.S. Lewis, from That Hideous Strength, compiled in Words to Live By
Larger than life is just big enough. – Drag Queen on Judge Mathis
Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you, too, can become great. – Mark Twain
The best way to find out if you can trust somebody is to trust them. – Ernest Hemingway
If you fuel your journey on the opinions of others, you are going to run out of gas. – Steve Maraboli
Success is more permanent when you achieve it without destroying your principles. – Walter Cronkite
If you get tired, learn to rest, not to quit. – Banksy
I just want a bed to sleep on that isn’t stained with broken dreams. – Heather Gay, The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City
🐻 Hibernation Mode On…
Until next week, stay safe; stay not drinking and driving – recruit a designated driver or take a cab/Uber on New Year’s Eve; and stay embracing those who are here, rather than focusing on those who aren’t.
What I Watched - TV With Theresa 